Boston’s Snowport holiday market opens for fresh season of fun

Holiday markets have long held my interest and imagination.

I’ve made it to a few – Union Station’s in Washington, DC stands out as fantastic. I dream of making it to others: Germany and all their great holiday markets rank high on the list.

There’s one world-class holiday market that should be added to all holiday lover’s lists, one that’s accessible without a plane ticket.

The Boston Seaport neighborhood’s Holiday Market at Snowport (https://www.bostonseaport.xyz/snowport), has been crafted and nurtured in a way that makes it, in just its fourth season, arguably one of the most fun, all-encompassing holiday markets out there.

Starting Nov. 8, Snowport takes over the massive green space that centers the thriving Seaport district. You’ll find 120 unique businesses – 22% are new to the market, 65% are from New England, and 83% identify as either Black, Indigenous, or people of color (BIPOC) and/or female-owned) – an outdoor dining area featuring 17 different food choices, live music on The Music Stage by Mohegan Sun, and much more.

In the cozy grid of small buildings and stands you can shop for your holiday meal, check off your gift list and even take home your Christmas tree. It’s shopping as a holiday escape.

You can even try one of winter’s hottest sports – curling. The Snowport’s iceless curling lanes are open whenever the market is. There are special events too, including the Dec. 6 Light Up Seaport event and the Dec. 29 Menorah lighting. Betty the Yeti, Snowport’s official mascot, is always on hand for hugs and selfies as well.

Visiting the market can be a quick jaunt if you want, but why not build out an entire day – or multiple days – to savor the event and the surrounding community.

It’s fitting that this all happens at the Seaport. Back in the 1800’s, the area bustled with businesses importing and exporting things like textiles, tea, spices, and raw materials like lumber and iron.

More recently, the area has experienced a building boom that – when you approach Boston via plane – looks to be a city in itself.

For a day trip or an overnight, consider parking – and dining – at the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport (https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/boston-seaport/dining/lifted-pool-bar). By enjoying a beverage or appetizer at one of their four on-site restaurants, you’ll have your parking validated. What a deal.

For overnight, Omni is a great choice, as is the Envoy Hotel (https://www.theenvoyhotel.com), a unique and comfortable stay.

And while most of your time will be spent shopping and meandering, there’s more to do just steps away from the Market itself.

Head to the Alamo Drafthouse Seaport Cinema (https://drafthouse.com/boston) for a movie, great food and fun. Want to add some healthy competition to your outing? Nearby King’s Seaport (https://www.playatkings.com) has bowling, table games and more – you can even catch a game there.

I’d also suggest lunch at the Market and then heading to one of the Seaport’s many great dining spots for a true classic Boston dinner. Woods Hill Pier 4 (https://www.woodshillpier4.com) has brought back their beloved hot chocolate bombs (boozy or not; your choice) and fondue. How’s that for a perfect winter warm up?

This year, the Holiday Market at Snowport is even easier to manage, thanks to a new Seaport Insider app from sponsor Constant Contact. You can download it wherever you buy apps and pre-purchase entry tickets, get up to the minute updates and map out your adventure.

The market is open seven days a week beginning Nov. 8, with hours Mon. through Thurs 3 p. m. to 8 p. m., Friday and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sundays 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and with longer hours (11 a.m.- 8 p.m. Mon-Thurs, and 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Sat. and Sun, Dec. 9-29).

For a day or an overnight, The Holiday Market at Snowport is a world-class choice right in the heart of Massachusetts.