MassLive weekend picks: See 5 fun things to do this weekend in Mass.
Thanksgiving is officially here, kick-starting the holiday season with fun and festive events throughout the state.
With holiday morale high, take part in a unique Christmas tree cutting experience or watch a drone light show.
See this week's list of MassLive's weekend picks , a weekly release of activities or events across the Bay State every weekend.
Bright Nights at Forest Park in Springfield is among nominations for best holiday lighting display in a USA Today online poll.
Bright Nights
Forest Park in Springfield will be lit up once again this holiday season with the return of Bright Nights from Nov. 26 to Jan. 4.
With over 750,000 lights, "this three-mile drive-thru spectacular features festive scenes, iconic characters, and peaceful gardens, all illuminated for a joyous holiday experience," its website said .
Tickets can be bought here .
A Christmas tree farm in New Braintree on Aug. 13, 2025.Gustavo Atencio Flores/MassLive
Unique Christmas tree cutting
Although not in Massachusetts, if you're willing to make the trip across state lines, you can cut down your own Christmas trees from two national forests. The best part — it's $5.
The White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire and Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont allow people to get permits to cut down Christmas trees.
"Lifelong memories are built during these special times and we are happy to help with any information gathering you'll need to make this trip a safe and enjoyable one," the website states.
Depending on the location, families can get one or two trees.
Castleberry Faire
If you're into craftsmanship, this event could be for you.
From Nov. 28-30, the Shriners Auditorium in Wilmington will host the 30th annual Castleberry Faire , a three-day showcase of American-made craftsmanship.
Guests will be able to browse over 250 juried artisans offering folk art, stained glass, jewelry, children's clothing and unique gifts that are all handmade.
Additionally, there will be plenty of holiday decor and artwork to celebrate the holiday season.
Enjoy these poems for the holidays. (Getty Images)Getty Images
Holiday drone show
Hosted on the Boston Common, nights of holiday lights and music take place in the city.
At this event, guests can watch the night sky showcase drone displays every Saturday from Nov. 29 through Dec. 20, with shows at 6 and 8 p.m., taking flight from the corner of Boylston and Charles streets.
See more information on the event here .
Southwick's Zoo at the Dream Destinations Travel Show at MGM Springfield on Sunday.Leon Photography / Special to The Republican
Southwick Zoo Winter Wonderland
Want to see even more holiday lights?
The Southwick Zoo will have more than 4 million lights and handcrafted displays that transform the zoo into a holiday experience.
At this event, guests can enjoy treats from the Kringle Café, holiday shopping at the Purple Peacock Gift Shop and on-site dining at Galliford's Restaurant & Tavern.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.
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