The region is dotted with brick-and-mortar destinations and natural landmarks. Likewise, though, MetroWest culture also thrives on the backs of pop-up events that come and go with the seasons. 

Connect with your national pride through summertime Flag Day and Fourth of July celebrations. Carve pumpkins, or enjoy a good scare at Halloween events, and even take the kids to see Santa walk their familiar streets in any one of the many Christmastime events in the area. 

There’s plenty to do and see. We’ve gathered our favorite seasonal delights here...

Various locations in Hopkinton, Ashland, Natick, Framingham

Patriots Day (Third Monday of April)

The famous race that’s much more than “just a race.” Running through much of the MetroWest region, the marathon draws up to a million spectators watching roughly 30,000 athletes complete the grueling trek down suburban streets to the urban concrete canyons of downtown Boston. It’s one of the annual high points of spring festivities for local communities often featuring fantastic mild weather on a day many locals get off work. 

Various locations, Framingham, Natick

Mid April

A decentralized network of celebrations surrounding Earth Day every year on April 22. In Framingham, the long-running Earth Day Festival gathers vendors and advocates to share information, lead demonstrations, and offer activities and crafts for all to enjoy. In Natick, a similar type of event pops up annually on the town common. Elsewhere, civic-minded region residents have an array of options appearing annually ranging from town cleanups to sporadic trail maintenance programs at the area’s many state parks.

Downtown Framingham

Mid June

An annual tradition for the whole family, the beloved Framingham Flag Day Parade runs a short route through downtown Framingham to honor the veterans who’ve served in the United States military and to celebrate those currently serving. The event is truly one geared to all with almost half the route each year featuring limited flashing lights and few loud noises as part of a sensory-friendly program for residents of all ages with special needs. 

Various locations in Natick, Weston

Early July

A collection of parades and events across the region on or around the annual Independence Day holiday. In Weston, catch the pool-themed Family Fun Day at the Memorial Pool on Alphabet Lane. There, a DJ annually plays family-friendly poolside music as aquatic staff lead fun activities for all ages. 

In Natick, celebrate the seventh decade of the annual town Fourth of July Parade, featuring floats, local performance groups, and regional parade standards like the Aleppo Shriners car group. Have kids? Stop by a few days before July 4 for the annual Children's Parade around the Natick Town Common featuring games, music and a concert after the parade itself. 

Various locations in Southborough

Columbus Day

A collection of events on Columbus Day Weekend every year. Watch the annual road race, and then stop by the collection of vendors set up on the lawn of the town’s St. Marks School. Don’t miss the annual pumpkin stroll, either, which typically ends up leaving scores of carved jack-o-lanterns along the town common wall.

20 Nixon Rd., Framingham

Fridays and Saturdays in October

A Halloween-themed spook show on the homey Hanson’s Farm in Framingham. Pick up your pumpkins from the farm patch during the day, visit the farm stand for some more food, then hop on the hayride for thrills and scares galore. 

Various locations in Natick

Late October

A day of Halloween festivities for the whole family. Various parades of trick-or-treating start at 2 pm and wind through downtown before circling back to the Natick Town Common. Highlights of the event include the “Great Pumpkin Smash,” which has become a local favorite in recent years. 

89 Pleasant St., S. Natick

One of the oldest continuously working farms in the United States. In addition to our fruit U-pick, Lookout Farm offers farm fresh hard cider and beer. There are lots of kid-friendly activities, including farm animals, playground, mazes and pony rides.

25 Marlborough Rd., Southborough

Early December

A Christmas spectacular famous for introducing Santa in spectacular fashion. Enjoy family activities, and then see Santa arrive via helicopter on the St. Mark's lawn. 

150 Concord St., Framingham

Early December

A classic tree-lighting ceremony of the city’s annual imported massive spruce tree. The event typically features performances from area art and community groups before Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus use some “holiday magic” to light the tree or all. 

Various locations, Wayland

Late December

An annual tour of Wayland sponsored by the Wayland Fire Department. See Santa hitch a ride on vintage trucks and wave to community members over several nights. 

98 N. Main St., Sherborn

Early December

Seven varieties of Christmas trees on 15 acres of open space. Roam the evergreens, and pick your favorite Christmas tree. Dowse crew will cut it down for you. Also large assortment of pre-cut trees, decorating materials and flowers. After, warm yourself up by the campfire and chase the chill away with free hot mulled cider.