Fall River is home to plenty of beloved traditions that mark the winter holidays. From our Victorian gingerbread homes to our perfect sledding hills, residents can enjoy all the magic and history of a true New England winter.
However, you don’t have to wait for the snow to fall in order to celebrate- Fall River has a number of annual events that kick off the winter season. Read on for all the details on Fall River’s traditions and events that can get even the biggest Scrooges into the holiday spirit!
Annual Children’s Holiday Parade
Each year, the of New England’s largest holiday parades kicks off from Kennedy Park in Fall River on the first Saturday of December. Organized by the Holiday Parade Committee and Greater Fall River RE-Creation, the parade travels down South Main Street and features a jam-packed line-up of Macy’s Parade-style balloons, musical bands, beautifully decorated floats, marching units, fire and police vehicles, and festive characters. The parade is always closed out by a visit from the big man himself- Santa Claus! The event is one of Fall River’s most beloved traditions, and a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
This year, the parade kicks off at 1pm on Saturday, December 2nd. Follow the Facebook event for more details: https://fb.me/e/NqiXl0pK
City of Fall River Tree Lighting Celebration
The party doesn’t stop with the parade! After the parade wraps, the City of Fall River invites residents to partake in their official tree lighting celebration. The event offers an array of activities for kids— airbrush tattoos, face painting, crafts and games, giveaways, and performers. Need a picture for your christmas card? Santa is on hand to greet little ones! Enjoy free hot cocoa and delicious offerings from food vendors. As the sun sets, Mayor Paul Coogan and special guests will officially mark the official start of the holiday season in Fall River with the flip the switch– illuminating City Hall’s massive tree. It is a beautiful sight for all to see!
The Fall River 2023 Tree Lighting Celebration will take place on Saturday, December 2nd, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Government Center. Follow the Facebook event at https://fb.me/e/1z2wQsaot
Christmas Arts and Crafts Fair at Durfee High School
Holiday shopping can be stressful! Don’t panic- the Annual Christmas Arts and Crafts Fair at Fall River’s Durfee High School takes place the first weekend of December. The fair features over 150 vendors of all styles and mediums, so you’ll be sure to find something for everyone on your list. Wander through and experience some of the area’s finest artisans and crafters- you won’t leave empty handed! Admission and parking at the high school’s Elsbree Street lot are always free.
This year’s Fair takes place Saturday, December 2nd and Sunday, December 3rd, from 10a.m. to 4p.m.m both days. Follow the Facebook event here- https://fb.me/e/3iPnkxr52
Christmas in Fall River Concert with Sons of Serendip
For the last several years, the Office of Mayor Paul Coogan has brought a special night of enchanting night of holiday music to Fall River. Christmas in Fall River features the musical stylings of America’s Got Talent Finalists “Sons of Serendip”. The four-piece band bring a lineup of beloved Christmas music to Fall River’s own B.M.C. Durfee High School, providing a night of heartwarming Christmas cheer that your whole family will enjoy! The cherry on top? Tickets are offered at a low price and all proceeds are donated to a local toy drive. The show sells out every year–- so purchase your tickets as soon as you can for this unforgettable night of music!
Tickets and event details for this year’s concert, on December 22nd, can be found here: https://cityoffallriver.ticketspice.com/5th-annual-christmas-in-fall-river-concert?fbclid=IwAR11LOS_CuddS-k1NH_Q_FsYekIx4NFAGtTsu0sSZNNyGnQzVk1e6-OZhBw