SparkNewton will host the 5th annual WinterFEST celebration of community, creativity, and winter spirit in Newton with events for all ages from Friday, January 23 through Sunday, January 25. WinterFEST invites residents and visitors to embrace the season with music, art, performances, outdoor exploration, family-friendly activities, and neighborhood connection.
Please check registration details at https://sparknewton.org/happenings/winterfest-2026/
FRIDAY, January 23
WinterFEST Kickoff with ice, music, and magic! On Friday, January 23, 5PM – 6:30PM at the Newton Centre Green. Enjoy live ice sculptures carving, a cappella performances, interactive art by Brighter Ignited, free hot chocolate, warm churros and glow sticks, plus a visit from Olaf. To donate to Welcome Home’s Blanket Drive, please bring new or gently used full, queen or king blankets (no rips or stains) to the Newton Centre Green and drop off at the Welcome Home bin on Friday, January 23 from 5PM-6:30PM.
SATURDAY, January 24
Winter Walk with Newton Conservators and Friends of Cold Spring Park on Saturday, January 24, 10AM at Cold Spring Park. A Winter Walk featuring an Olaf meet-and-greet and a scavenger hunt along the trails.
Hot Cocoa and Cool Jazz at the Snowflake Ice Bar on Saturday, January 24, 11:30AM at Austin Street Plaza, Newtonville. Free hot chocolate, a snowflake ice-bar photo op, and live jazz from ZOZA to kick off your WinterFEST morning.
Storytime with Sammy on Saturday, January 24, 1PM at Newtonville Books. Newtonville Books presents a storytime with Bookseller Sammy — a winter celebration for families and young readers.
Flower Press Activity on Saturday, January 24, 2PM at Derby Flowers. Press winter botanicals and craft beautiful keepsakes — a meditative experience for all ages.
Global Grooves Warm the WinterFEST Stage on Saturday, January 24, 2PM at Newton Community Stage. Women in World Jazz ensemble brings global rhythms to Newton.
WinterFEST at the Library: Family fun, Winter Wonderland edition on Saturday, January 24, 3PM at Newton Free Library. Drop in for self-directed activities, crafts, and games for families with kids of all ages.
WinterFEST at the Library: Preteen and Teen DIY Snow Globes on Saturday, January 24, 3PM at the Newton Free Library. Create your own winter wonderland in a jar — for grades 5-12; registration through the Newton Free Library is required.
Soup Social at the Hyde: A Delicious Tradition That Warms the Soul on Saturday, January 24, 5:30PM at the Hyde Community Center. Soup, rolls, cookies, and ice cream from local restaurants, live music by White Collar Crime, and a visit from Olaf.
SUNDAY, January 25
Film screening of Abominable on Sunday, January 25, 10AM at the West Newton Cinema. Cozy screening of Abominable with free popcorn — WinterFEST style!
Family Dance Party on Sunday, January 25, 1PM at the New Art Center. Live music by the Stacey Peasley Band — dance along with Olaf and enjoy winter craft activities!
WinterFEST at the Library: Preteen and Teen DIY Snow Globes (Second Session) on Sunday, January 25, 3PM at Newton Free Library. Another chance to create a winter wonderland jar for grades 5-12; registration required.
For a full schedule, registration details, and updates, visit https://sparknewton.org/happenings/winterfest-2026/.
The Village Bank is WinterFEST’s Presenting Sponsor.
