Programming, Activities, and Special Events in Boston's Parks
Every year the Parks Department brings engaging programs and events to parks throughout the City of Boston. Don't miss out on these free, fun events!
From ParkARTS performing arts like concerts and puppet shows, to participatory programming like arts and crafts workshops, to special events and festivals—Boston's parks are full of activity!
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Have questions? Contact us:
Parks and Recreation
Holiday Lights
Boston's Official Holiday Tree Arrival
The annual gift of an evergreen Christmas tree from Nova Scotia is scheduled to arrive by police escort at Boston Common at approximately 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 21
Trellis Lighting
Help spread the holiday cheer by joining the City of Boston, the Boston Parks and Recreation Department and the Friends of Christopher Columbus Park for our annual trellis lighting in the North End's Christopher Columbus Park!
Lighting of the Ship at Martin's Park
Join us for Boston's newest holiday tradition!
Boston Common Tree Lighting
The City of Boston and guests from the Province of Nova Scotia will celebrate the 82nd Annual Tree Lighting on Boston Common on Thursday, November 30.
Lighting of the Commonwealth Avenue Mall
Please join us as we hit the switch and celebrate the lighting of trees up and down Commonwealth Avenue.
Park partner series
Elma Lewis Concert Series
Hosted in partnership with the Franklin Park Coalition, the Elma Lewis “Playhouse in the Park” concert series takes place in Franklin Park’s Playstead area. The concerts feature local R&B, reggae, and gospel artists every Tuesday night in the summer.
Tito Puente Latin Music Series
Hosted in partnership with Berklee College of Music and IBA Boston, these concerts typically take place on Thursday nights in July and August. You’ll groove to the sound of live Latin music with strong salsa influence in some of your favorite neighborhood
About our programs
Arts and crafts workshops
Our arts and crafts workshops are led by local artists. They're typically held Tuesday through Friday in July and August. These workshops encourage kids to explore their creativity through projects like mask making, crayon art, watercolor and much more.
Neighborhood Concert Series
Make sure to bring a blanket, lawn chair, or even a picnic basket for one or all of these free, fun concerts.
Golf Course Concert Series
Enjoy a concert on the patio at one of the City's golf courses
Parks Movie Nights
Our neighborhood movie series makes for the perfect summer nights. This series is hosted on weeknights during the months of August and September.
Puppet shows
Experience the unique charm of a Puppet Show at one of our whimsical puppet performances. We'll add a link to a page with more details when that information is ready!
Watercolor Painting Workshops
Our workshops enable artists of all skill levels to create their own greenspace-inspired masterpieces. Tips and techniques are provided by an instructor. These workshops take place in June and September.
Paint Nights
Enjoy a free night out with friends and family and create your own masterpiece!
Virtual and self-guided programs
How to make a flower box
Our Horticulture Division is here to help you make your very own flower box!
Let's build a fairy house
Ever wonder where fairies like Tinkerbell or Cinderella's Fairy godmother live? Fairy houses of course!
Parks Bingo!
Are you up for a challenge? Looking for fun activities to do while practicing social and physical distancing? Then Parks BINGO is for you!
Park-themed coloring pages
The Mayor's Mural Crew has created a series of coloring pages for you to enjoy from the safety of your home!
Pics in the Parks
We welcome all ages and skill levels. Use your cameras and smartphones to take part in our informal sessions and challenges each week over the summer.
Seasonal events and festivals
SeasonalOne of our favorite ways to kick-start the spring season is with the opening of the Swan Boats at the Boston Public Garden lagoon. This event typically takes place the weekend of the Boston Marathon. It's a beloved tradition for many Bostonians.
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There isn't a better way to start summer than with the opening of the Frog Pond Spray Pool on the Boston Common. Typically hosted in June, this fun-filled event features music, interactive exhibits, giveaways, and much more. It’s the perfect way to cool down and celebrate summer.
Our Children’s Summer Festival is the perfect way to end the summer. Typically hosted in late August, this festival usually takes place in Franklin Park’s Playstead area. While at the event, you can expect to find a variety of vendors, interactive exhibits, face painting, a visit from our Park Ranger Mounted Unit, music, entertainment and much more.
This FREE, family-friendly event will also include lots of spooky activities and giveaways for all ages. The event is presented by Parks and Recreation, in partnership with The Skating Club of Boston. This free family-friendly event will also include glow-in-the-dark games, children’s crafts, scarily delicious snacks and refreshments.
One of our only winter events, the Children's Winter Festival is typically hosted during the Boston Public Schools February School vacation each year. During this event we attempt to turn the Boston Common into a winter wonderland. The Common is filled with games, rides, arts and crafts, performances, and much more.
Who's Involved:
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Have questions? Contact us:
Parks and Recreation
