city_hall

Official websites use .boston.gov

A .boston.gov website belongs to an official government organization in the City of Boston.

lock

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS

A lock or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Canceled:
Pumpkin Smash!

Reason for cancellation: Due to rain and muddy conditions.
November 3, 2018
Event Date2018-11-03T11:00:00 - 2018-11-03T14:00:00

After Halloween passes, what do you plan to do with your holiday pumpkins? Instead of throwing them away, why don't you compost your pumpkins with Greenovate Boston! 

On Saturday, November 3, Greenovate Boston and City Soil will be hosting Pumpkin Smash!, a pumpkin composting event at the Mattapan Ecovation Center. Smash your pumpkins and then learn the proper way to compost them!

Did you know pumpkins past their prime can be composted with your leaf and yard waste? Join us at our family-friendly event where you can safely smash and compost your pumpkin after Halloween. Learn more about how you can compost at home, see the composting process in action, and eat cider donuts at the Mattapan Ecovation Center, 456 American Legion Highway, Mattapan, MA 02126!

Come by anytime between 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dilapidated sadface pumpkins welcomed and highly encouraged. 

RSVP for the Pumpkin Smash

It is forecasted to lightly rain on Saturday. The event will still take place if it rains. This event is a collaboration between the City's Departments of Public Works and Environment, the Mattapan Ecovation Center and City Soil, and the Boston Nature Center.

November 3, 2018
Event Date2018-11-03T11:00:00 - 2018-11-03T14:00:00

Getting to the event

By bike:

We welcome people to bike to the event!

By public transit:

From the Forest Hills T station, take the 21/31 bus to Morton Street at Canterbury Street. There is a 10-minute walk to the event. Alternatively, from Dudley Station, take the 14 bus to American Legion Hwy at Walkhill Road. This is followed by a six-minute walk.

By car:

Car parking is available at the Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Street Hill, Mattapan, MA. It is a short walk to the Mattapan Evocation Center, 456 American legion Highway, Mattapan, MA 02126.

Can't make the event?

You can put your pumpkin out with your leaf and yard waste. Check your schedule online. Please remove all decorations from the pumpkin (paint is ok!) and place it with leaves in large paper bag or barrel labeled YARD WASTE. Pumpkins placed curbside on days without leaf and yard waste collection will be picked up and trashed.

BCYF Tynan Halloween Party

Youth ages 11 and under are invited to join us for a spooktacular good time!

October 29, 2018
  • 4:00pm - 5:30pm
  • 650 East Fourth Street
    Boston, MA 02127
  • Contact:
    BCYF Tynan Community Center
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    South Boston
  • Event Type:
  • Published Date
Event Date2018-10-29T16:00:00 - 2018-10-29T17:30:00
At our event, there will be:
  • a costume contest
  • a bouncy house
  • refreshments
  • games and prizes, and
  • music and more!
October 29, 2018
  • 4:00pm - 5:30pm
  • 650 East Fourth Street
    Boston, MA 02127
  • Contact:
    BCYF Tynan Community Center
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    South Boston
  • Event Type:
  • Published Date
Event Date2018-10-29T16:00:00 - 2018-10-29T17:30:00

BCYF Vine Street community center reopening

Join Mayor Walsh as he reopens the center following a year-long renovation on Saturday, October 13, at 12 p.m.

October 13, 2018
Event Date2018-10-13T12:00:00 - 2018-10-13T14:00:00

Mayor Martin J. Walsh together with Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF), the Public Facilities Department, and members of the community will celebrate the reopening of the renovated BCYF Vine Street Community Center in Roxbury on Saturday, October 13, at 12 p.m.

This $5 million dollar, one-year renovation is a key part of the Mayor’s $50 million dollar FY19 - FY23 Capital Plan investment in BCYF facilities.

 

 

October 13, 2018
Event Date2018-10-13T12:00:00 - 2018-10-13T14:00:00

Boston Pops Free Concert at Franklin Park

The Boston Pops, in partnership with the City of Boston, will perform a special free concert in Franklin Park on Sunday, September 30, at 3 p.m. 

September 30, 2018
Event Date2018-09-30T15:00:00

The concert is preceded by a community arts festival with family-friendly activities presented by many of local institutions and arts organizations. Offerings include an interactive mural, instrument playground, crafts, photo booth, live animal demonstrations, and more!

The outdoor concert marks the second year in a row for this free outdoor concert at The Playstead at Franklin Park, 25 Pierpont Road, Dorchester.The festival also includes several local food vendors. There's something for everyone! To help you get to the event, you can download our walking directions map (pdf).

Learn more about the event

September 30, 2018
Event Date2018-09-30T15:00:00

About the event

FEATURED PERFORMERS

Keith Lockhart, conductor
Thomas Wilkins, conductor

Participating organizations:

Artists for Humanity
Boston Children's Museum
Emerald Necklace Conservancy
Franklin Park Coalition
Franklin Park Zoo
Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra
Specialty food vendors from Commonwealth Kitchen
Performances by Clave and Blues and Kotoko Brass

PROGRAM    

SMITH - The Star-Spangled Banner    
BERNSTEIN - Overture to Candide    
BERNSTEIN - Simple Song from Mass    
BERNSTEIN - Mambo from West Side Story    
BERNSTEIN - Bernstein on Broadway    
MENDELSSOHN - Violin Concerto in E minor, 1st movement  / Isabel Chin, Project STEP soloist    
SIERRA - Timbao, from Symphony No. 3    
BARROSO-CALANDRELLI - Brazil / Grooversity, percussion    
ELLINGTON - Giggling Rapids, from The River Suite    
ELLINGTON - Come Sunday    
ELLINGTON - It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)

(Pre-concert festival begins at 1 p.m.)

54th annual Head of the Charles Regatta

On October 20 - 21, the Head of the Charles Regatta welcomes the world’s best crew teams to the banks of the Charles River for the ultimate two-day rowing competition.

October 20, 2018
  • 7:00am - 4:00pm
    Repeats daily, starting from October 20, 2018, until October 21, 2018
  • Esplanade
    Boston, MA 02116
  • Contact:
    Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    Citywide
    Allston
    Back Bay
    Bay Village
    Beacon Hill
    Brighton
    Charlestown
    Chinatown/Leather District
    Dorchester
    Downtown
    East Boston
    Fenway/Kenmore
    Hyde Park
    Jamaica Plain
    Mattapan
    Mission Hill
    North End
    Roslindale
    Roxbury
    South Boston
    South End
    West End
    West Roxbury
  • Published Date
Event Date2018-10-20T07:00:00 - 2018-10-20T16:00:00

First held on October 16, 1965, the Head of the Charles Regatta is the world’s largest two-day rowing event. Since 1965, the Head of the Charles Regatta has grown tremendously. Today, more than 11,000 athletes from around the world compete in 55 different race events. In 1997, the Regatta grew to a two-day event and now attracts thousands of spectators during race weekend in October. Support from numerous boat clubs, colleges and universities, the Department of Conservation and Recreation, as well as 1,700 hardworking volunteers help make the Regatta a continued success year after year.

Rowers have come from near and far to take part in the world’s largest Regatta, but the fun isn’t limited to competitors. There are many ways for spectators to get involved in the weekend’s festivities.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned veteran, the Regatta offers spectators a variety of activities. Individuals looking for a relaxed setting that boasts spectacular views should check out the Eliot Bridge Enclosure. The Weld Exhibition is the go-to place for great local grub and Regatta merchandise. For a lively and energetic venue, check out the Reunion Village where alumni and spectators gather to support their favorite teams. Visit the Rowing and Fitness Expo at the finish line to test out a rowing machine or browse vendor merchandise.

October 20, 2018
  • 7:00am - 4:00pm
    Repeats daily, starting from October 20, 2018, until October 21, 2018
  • Esplanade
    Boston, MA 02116
  • Contact:
    Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    Citywide
    Allston
    Back Bay
    Bay Village
    Beacon Hill
    Brighton
    Charlestown
    Chinatown/Leather District
    Dorchester
    Downtown
    East Boston
    Fenway/Kenmore
    Hyde Park
    Jamaica Plain
    Mattapan
    Mission Hill
    North End
    Roslindale
    Roxbury
    South Boston
    South End
    West End
    West Roxbury
  • Published Date
Event Date2018-10-20T07:00:00 - 2018-10-20T16:00:00

Salsa on the Lawn for National Hispanic Heritage Month

Join us for a day of celebration including food and dancing!

September 20, 2018
Event Date2018-09-20T12:00:00 - 2018-09-20T14:00:00
About Hispanic Heritage Month

The month highlights the importance of our City’s residents. We showcase their diverse histories and contributions to public life, culture, language, and identity. Every year, we celebrate through a wide range of events.

Heritage Month information

September 20, 2018
Event Date2018-09-20T12:00:00 - 2018-09-20T14:00:00

14th annual EF Hub on Wheels Citywide Ride

On September 16, go on a 40-mile or 10-mile bike ride to support pediatric cancer research.

September 16, 2018
  • 8:00am - 2:00pm
  • 1 City Hall Square
    Boston, MA 02201
  • Contact:
    Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment
  • Price:
    Price
    $55+
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    Citywide
    Allston
    Back Bay
    Bay Village
    Beacon Hill
    Brighton
    Charlestown
    Chinatown/Leather District
    Dorchester
    Downtown
    East Boston
    Fenway/Kenmore
    Hyde Park
    Jamaica Plain
    Mattapan
    Mission Hill
    North End
    Roslindale
    Roxbury
    South Boston
    South End
    West End
    West Roxbury
  • Published Date
Event Date2018-09-16T08:00:00 - 2018-09-16T14:00:00

Bike along a car-free Storrow Drive and across the Emerald Necklace on a 40-mile journey through Boston's unique neighborhoods. You can also choose to take our more family-friendly and beginner 10-mile ride. Both courses start and finish on City Hall Plaza in downtown Boston.

A portion of your registration fee will benefit Boston Children's Hospital, but consider becoming a Hope Rider (or creating your own bike team!) to help raise even more funds to support cancer research.

This event is presented by Mayor Martin J. Walsh and new title sponsor, EF Education First, with special thanks to the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Lärabar, and Boloco.

September 16, 2018
  • 8:00am - 2:00pm
  • 1 City Hall Square
    Boston, MA 02201
  • Contact:
    Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment
  • Price:
    Price
    $55+
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    Citywide
    Allston
    Back Bay
    Bay Village
    Beacon Hill
    Brighton
    Charlestown
    Chinatown/Leather District
    Dorchester
    Downtown
    East Boston
    Fenway/Kenmore
    Hyde Park
    Jamaica Plain
    Mattapan
    Mission Hill
    North End
    Roslindale
    Roxbury
    South Boston
    South End
    West End
    West Roxbury
  • Published Date
Event Date2018-09-16T08:00:00 - 2018-09-16T14:00:00

Professional clothing drive!

The BCYF Division of Youth Engagement & Employment is hosting a Professional Clothing Drive Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., August 27 through September 12.

August 27, 2018
  • 10:00am - 6:00pm
    Repeats daily on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, starting from August 27, 2018, until September 13, 2018
  • 1483 Tremont Street
    Boston, MA 02120
  • Contact:
    Maya Smith
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    Citywide
    Allston
    Back Bay
    Bay Village
    Beacon Hill
    Brighton
    Charlestown
    Chinatown/Leather District
    Dorchester
    Downtown
    East Boston
    Fenway/Kenmore
    Hyde Park
    Jamaica Plain
    Mattapan
    Mission Hill
    North End
    Roslindale
    Roxbury
    South Boston
    South End
    West End
    West Roxbury
  • Published Date
Event Date2018-08-27T10:00:00 - 2018-08-27T18:00:00

We are collecting lightly worn, freshly washed, professional clothes to give to youth in need at Ready, Set, Success

Please join us in gathering clothes of varying sizes for young men and women who are in need of professional clothing. We've already confirmed more than 150 deserving students. Donations can be placed in the donation box in the BCYF Division of Youth Engagement & Employment lobby, 1483 Tremont Street, Mission Hill.

August 27, 2018
  • 10:00am - 6:00pm
    Repeats daily on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, starting from August 27, 2018, until September 13, 2018
  • 1483 Tremont Street
    Boston, MA 02120
  • Contact:
    Maya Smith
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    Citywide
    Allston
    Back Bay
    Bay Village
    Beacon Hill
    Brighton
    Charlestown
    Chinatown/Leather District
    Dorchester
    Downtown
    East Boston
    Fenway/Kenmore
    Hyde Park
    Jamaica Plain
    Mattapan
    Mission Hill
    North End
    Roslindale
    Roxbury
    South Boston
    South End
    West End
    West Roxbury
  • Published Date
Event Date2018-08-27T10:00:00 - 2018-08-27T18:00:00

Ready, Set, Success! Youth career development event

The free career development event for youth ages 15 - 25 takes place on September 15 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

    September 15, 2018
    • 10:00am - 2:00pm
    • 1481 Tremont Street
      Boston, MA 02120
    • Contact:
      Maya Smith
    • Price:
      Price
      FREE
    • Neighborhood:
      Neighborhood
      Citywide
      Allston
      Back Bay
      Bay Village
      Beacon Hill
      Brighton
      Charlestown
      Chinatown/Leather District
      Dorchester
      Downtown
      East Boston
      Fenway/Kenmore
      Hyde Park
      Jamaica Plain
      Mattapan
      Mission Hill
      North End
      Roslindale
      Roxbury
      South Boston
      South End
      West End
      West Roxbury
    • Published Date
    Event Date2018-09-15T10:00:00 - 2018-09-15T14:00:00

    The BCYF Division of Youth Engagement & Employment is hosting Ready, Set, Success on Saturday, September 15, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the BCYF Tobin Community Center!

    Please join us at this free youth development event to ensure that young Bostonians, ages 15-25, are ready for all of the success coming their way! You can pre-register for the event:

    Pre-register for the event

    At Ready, Set, Success you will receive:
    • free professional headshots by Jobcase
    • free professional clothing
    • free food
    • free hair and hygiene products
    • free resume support
    • free giveaways, and
    • much more!
    September 15, 2018
    • 10:00am - 2:00pm
    • 1481 Tremont Street
      Boston, MA 02120
    • Contact:
      Maya Smith
    • Price:
      Price
      FREE
    • Neighborhood:
      Neighborhood
      Citywide
      Allston
      Back Bay
      Bay Village
      Beacon Hill
      Brighton
      Charlestown
      Chinatown/Leather District
      Dorchester
      Downtown
      East Boston
      Fenway/Kenmore
      Hyde Park
      Jamaica Plain
      Mattapan
      Mission Hill
      North End
      Roslindale
      Roxbury
      South Boston
      South End
      West End
      West Roxbury
    • Published Date
    Event Date2018-09-15T10:00:00 - 2018-09-15T14:00:00

    BCYF Gallivan community center reopening

    The reopening celebration on September 7 will also dedicate a brand new playground.

    September 7, 2018
    Event Date2018-09-07T14:00:00 - 2018-09-07T15:00:00

    The re-opening celebration of the BCYF Gallivan Community Center in Mattapan will be held on Friday, September 7, at 2 p.m. This $3 million dollar, one-year renovation is a key part of Mayor Walsh’s $50 million dollar FY19-FY23 Capital Plan investment in BCYF facilities. All are welcome to attend the reopening celebration.

    Upgrades included replacing the roof and gym floor, installing air conditioning in the gymnasium, upgrading the fire alarm system and emergency lighting, installing new storm water drainage, repaving the parking lot, installing a transfer switch for emergency generator connection, and upgrading power outlets and select lighting. Additional improvements were made to the bathrooms, and the exterior facade.

    In addition to a $3 million dollar investment in the Gallivan Community Center, Mayor Walsh is investing $1.9 million dollars in an interior renovation of the BCYF Mattahunt. The Mayor is also investing in a kitchen upgrade at the Mildred Avenue K-8 School/BCYF Mildred Avenue Community Center in Mattapan.

    Also on September 7, more than 200 volunteers from BCYF, Morgan Stanley and organizers from KaBoom! and the community will join together to transform an empty site into a kid-designed, state-of-the-art playground in just six hours at BCYF Gallivan Community Center. The design is based on kids’ drawings created at a special design event in July. The new playground – the 20th built by Morgan Stanley and KaBOOM! – will give 230 kids and their families in the community a fun place to play.

    This playground is part of Morgan Stanley’s commitment to supporting healthy starts for children. Safe places to play are vital to that foundation and Morgan Stanley’s long-standing collaboration with KaBOOM! helps to ensure communities have great places to play for kids and families and creates spaces where kids’ potential is supported, nurtured, and celebrated.The playground will be finished just before the community center reopening event and its opening will also be celebrated on September 7. Volunteers are needed to help build the playground — you can sign up online.

    • WHEN: Friday, September 7, 2 p.m. (ribbon cutting with Mayor Walsh)
    • WHERE: BCYF Gallivan Community Center, 61 Woodruff Way, Mattapan
    About Boston Centers for Youth and Families

    Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) is the City of Boston’s largest youth and human service agency. BCYF operates 36 community centers in Boston that offer a variety of engaging and enriching programs for people of all ages created through community input and need. BCYF also oversees citywide programs including the nationally-recognized violence intervention and prevention Streetworker Program, the GIRLS Initiative, Camp Joy special needs program and many aquatic offerings.

    September 7, 2018
    Event Date2018-09-07T14:00:00 - 2018-09-07T15:00:00
    Subscribe to Family friendly
    Back to top