With all the expenses of the season piling up at once, it's a bonus when parents find free holiday and Christmas events in Boston for kids. Here are our picks for the best events near Boston celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year's without needing to dig into your wallet (except maybe to take out your T pass). Head to East Boston for hot cocoa and free photos with Santa (where you can donate toys) or decorate cookies in Canton. Watch Saint Bernards haul your Christmas tree to your car in North Andover; as a bonus, the dogs pose for photos with each family. Kendall Square is hosting their annual Holiday Ice Show. And everyone will love ringing in the New Year in the heart of Boston.

There are more free holiday light displays to see in our list of Boston's Best Holiday and Christmas Light Shows and there are free holiday activities for kids at holiday markets. For more holiday and Christmas ideas, explore our Holiday Fun Guide for Boston Kids.