December break is a traditional time for families to spend time together, eating, playing games, and maybe enjoying some special activities there might not be time for when school and extracurriculars are in session. If you’re looking for a fun out, we’ve gathered six ideas here to help elevate your school break from OK to unforgettable.
Culinary Fun at Taste Buds Kitchen | Throughout break
With locations in Beverly and North Andover, Taste Buds Kitchen offers up plenty of opportunities for families to have fun creating delicious foods together. Decorate adorable penguin cupcakes or make reindeer donuts with the littler kids or bring the older ones along to try their hand at cooking up a Thai feast or a banquet of spaghetti and meatballs.
Hit the rink | Throughout break
For some classic outdoor winter fun, strap on your ice skates and go for a spin at the outdoor rink at MarketStreet in Lynnfield. Practice your gliding, then warm up with some hot chocolate and a seat by the fire. Or opt for some retro fun with an afternoon at the roller rink. If you grew up in the area, Roller World in Saugus will conjure some powerful memories and the kids will have as much fun as you and your friends used to.
Enjoy a little Christmas – even after the big day | Throughout break
Break starts nice and early this year so there is still time to take in some Christmas displays before the big day. Too much baking and present-wrapping to do? Don’t worry – these events all linger until at least the end of the year. Embrace the brisk air and head to Stoneham to see the Stone Zoo decked out with thousands of lights for ZooLights. If you’d rather stay warm indoors, visit Castle Hill in Ipswich to enjoy freshly baked cookies and hot cocoa while touring its historic mansion meticulously decorated for the season, or try Hammond Castle Museum in Gloucester, where the medieval-style castle is lavishly adorned for a truly regal effect.
Yo-yos at the Wenham Museum | Dec. 26
John Higby the Yo-Yo Guy has traveled to 26 countries showing off his uniquely impressive skills. On December 26, this world yo-yo champion will visit the Wenham Museum to delight North Shore children of all ages for two shows.
Tickets are available online at wenhammuseum.org/events.
Catch an 80s Movie at The Cabot, Beverly | Dec. 26, 27
Starting with a showing of Back to the Future on December 26 and The Goonies on December 27, The Cabot is hosting two chances to take in some classic 80’s cinema. Tickets can be purchased in advance.
Play at the North Shore Children’s Museum, Peabody | Dec. 27-31
The North Shore Children’s Museum has 15 hands-on exhibits including the STEM lab, Piggy Bank, Outer Space, Ocean Room, and more. Join them for a special New Year’s Eve Party from 10am to 12pm on December. For more information and tickets: nschildrensmuseum.org/visit/buy-tickets.