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One Day Only Fest

One Day Only Fest is presented by KickBack Boston and supported by the Wake Up The Night Grant.

September 14, 2024
  • 2:00pm - 8:00pm
  • Dewey Square Park
    600 Atlantic Avenue
    Boston, MA 02111
  • Contact:
    Office of Nightlife Economy
  • send an email
  • Price:
    FREE
  • Event Type:
    Festivals and fairs
  • Posted:
2024-09-14T14:00:00 - 2024-09-14T20:00:00

Yerrr! We’re outside again with our annual One Day Only Fest at Dewey Square Park on The Greenway (600 Atlantic Avenue Boston, MA 02110). On Saturday, September 14, from 2 p.m. - 8 p.m. roll thru for a dope lineup of live artists and top-tier DJs, lawn games, drinks and food. As always, please plan accordingly and reserve your spot.

One Day Only Fest is FREE and open to all ages, so bring the kiddos. Drinks and food will be provided for purchase. Please note, attendees must be 21 years or older with valid ID to drink alcoholic beverages. This is an outdoor event, we encourage attendees to dress cozy and warm and bring a throw blanket or a fold chair for seating. We'll have a limited amount of adirondack chairs available on a first come first serve basis.

September 14, 2024
  • 2:00pm - 8:00pm
  • Dewey Square Park
    600 Atlantic Avenue
    Boston, MA 02111
  • Contact:
    Office of Nightlife Economy
  • send an email
  • Price:
    FREE
  • Event Type:
    Festivals and fairs
  • Posted:
2024-09-14T14:00:00 - 2024-09-14T20:00:00
Last updated:

Night Glow Event: Empowering Cultural Expression and Wellness

Night Glow Event: Empowering Cultural Expression and Wellness is supported by the Wake Up The Night Grant.

September 22, 2024
  • 2:00pm - 8:00pm
  • 8 City Hall Avenue
    Boston, MA 02201
  • Contact:
    Office of Nightlife Economy
  • send an email
  • Price:
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Downtown
  • Event Type:
    Festivals and fairs
  • Posted:
2024-09-22T14:00:00 - 2024-09-22T20:00:00
Join us for a night of cultural empowerment and wellness through vibrant glow-in-the-dark activities! The night will include live performances, fun activities, art, workshop, S.T.E.A.M. demos and more!
 
September 22, 2024
  • 2:00pm - 8:00pm
  • 8 City Hall Avenue
    Boston, MA 02201
  • Contact:
    Office of Nightlife Economy
  • send an email
  • Price:
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Downtown
  • Event Type:
    Festivals and fairs
  • Posted:
2024-09-22T14:00:00 - 2024-09-22T20:00:00
Last updated:

Urban Agriculture and Climate Justice Fair

Join us for a day of celebrating and learning about urban agriculture and climate justice work across Boston!

September 28, 2024
2024-09-28T11:00:25 - 2024-09-28T15:00:25

This fair will have climate justice related activities and games and hands-on demos, like apple cider pressing and pickling. Enjoy food from Fresh Food Generation, music by Tjovi Ginen and fresh produce sold from local urban farms. Submit your most impressive harvests to our urban vegetable competition and win a prize! Fun and learning for all ages. Free & Welcome to all.

Hosted by a coalition of organizations including: Mothers out Front, Save the Harbor Save the Bay, The Food Project, Bowdoin St Health Center, Resonant Energy, Grow Boston, Extinction Rebellion, Codman Square Neighborhood Development Corp, ABCD, Dorchester Food Coop, Agriculture Hall, Boston Area Beekeepers, and more. 

Harvest Competition Details:

Please bring your submissions by 10:30 a.m.

Bring produce from community gardens, urban home gardens, and urban farms to the fair this fall! Win prizes in each category listed below.

  • Preserved Foods (canned, fermented and pickled foods)
  • Fruits and Berries
  • Flowers and Herbs (bouquet)
  • Honey
  • Oddly Shaped Vegetable
  • General Produce

  • Junior Category

Registration Page: Urban Agriculture & Climate Fair - The Trustees of Reservations

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/share/CukekH5Z5mEFykYW/

September 28, 2024
2024-09-28T11:00:25 - 2024-09-28T15:00:25
Last updated:

Deployables Day

A citywide training exercise on temporary flood protection.

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September 27, 2024
2024-09-27T10:00:00 - 2024-09-27T15:00:00

Join us for the first annual Deployables Day, a citywide training exercise on temporary flood protection

Boston is among the most vulnerable cities in the country to flooding. As sea levels rise, damaging floods will shift from a rare occurrence to a common reality.

September 27, 2024 | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Experience deployable flood barriers at City Hall Plaza. 

Learn about the City’s flood protection measures, ways to stay safe during a flood, and whether a deployable is right for you at Faneuil Hall. 

Visit deployable flood barriers across the city.

Explore how the City is being protected from flooding and what you can do to stay safe.

September 27, 2024
2024-09-27T10:00:00 - 2024-09-27T15:00:00
Join the Walking Tour
/
Chief Climate Officer Brian Swett and Chris Osgood, Director of Climate Resilience, will be leading a Downtown walking tour of deployable flood barriers. This walking tour will begin at 12 pm outside of the Congress St entrance of City Hall

Maps and Wayfinding

Contact: Environment

Deployables Day Event Map

Explore resources of Vendors, City Departments and Partners

Deployables Demonstration Map

Experience a Flood Deployable Demonstration

What is a deployable flood barrier?

A deployable is a flood barrier system that is put into place before or during a flood, and then taken down after the flood has passed. Deployable flood barriers can be more effective than traditional temporary barrier methods, such as sandbags, and can be quickly deployed with minimal setup time. 

What does a deployable look like?

A deployable flood barrier is constructed from textile-based materials and metal posts that reside in a small container and are manually deployed. The supporting wall can belong to surrounding buildings or short to close-off doorways. The design is scalable to accommodate a range of water heights and layouts

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

How do I apply for a permit to install a deployable flood barrier?

Retrofitting your building with a deployable flood barrier will require an ALT Permit with the Inspectional Services Department.

If your proposed flood barrier is not completely contained within your privately-owned land parcel, you will need to apply for a Specific Repairs license from the City’s Public Improvement Commission. This requires several steps:

  1. Reach out to the Office of Emergency Management at OEM@BOSTON.GOV for input on how to incorporate your proposed flood barrier into existing emergency planning efforts in your area.
  2. Engage a building engineer to create engineered plans for your proposed barrier based on an existing conditions report which establishes property lines, building edges and sidewalk composition.)
  3. Reach out to the  Public Improvement Commission at PIC@BOSTON.GOV to notify the Commission of your interest in applying for license
  4. With PIC’s approval, submit your request for a Public Hearing on your proposed project.

How do I know when to put up my deployable flood barrier?

  1. For liability reasons, the City does not provide specific guidance on when to deploy privately-owned barriers. You can reference the Coastal Flood Resilience Design Guidelines and  Zoning Viewer for new construction and building retrofits to understand more about flood risk at your specific building’s elevation. 
  2. Best practice is to maintain a regularly-updated standard operating procedure (SOP) for when and how to deploy your flood barrier. Some factors to consider when creating an SOP include how long it takes to install, accessibility of entrances and exits when the barrier is deployed, and systems of notification for the building’s occupants
FAQ- For Building Owners

My building has a deployable flood barrier, how can I make sure it’s in compliance with City requirements and regulations?

Once installed, deployable flood barriers must be registered with the Office of Emergency Management via the Deployable Flood Barrier Registration Form. Building owners are responsible for keeping their registration information up to date

My building does not have a deployable flood barrier, how can I learn more about whether one is needed?

If you're a private building owner in Boston looking to assess whether a deployable flood barrier is suitable for your property, the City’s Coastal Flood Resilience Design Guidelines can provide valuable insights. Here’s a step-by-step approach to using these guidelines effectively:

  1. Assess your flood risk: The Coastal Flood Resilience Overlay District (CFROD) includes areas of the City of Boston anticipated to be flooded with a 1% chance storm event in 2070 with 40-inches of sea level rise. You can determine whether or not your building is in the CFROD by consulting the Zoning Viewer.
  2. Evaluate Building Vulnerabilities: Identify the specific vulnerabilities of your building. This includes the potential entry points for floodwaters (such as doors, windows, and garage openings) and the critical areas that need protection.
  3. Review Recommended Protection Measures: The City’s guidelines outline various floodproofing strategies based on different flood scenarios and building floor elevations.
  4. Consult with Experts: Engage with an architect or building engineer who can help assess your building’s specific needs based on the guidelines. They can offer recommendations on the most effective deployable barrier systems and ensure that the chosen solution aligns with both the guidelines and your building’s requirements.
  5. Review Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that the deployable barriers you consider meet local regulations and standards for flood protection. (See: How do I apply for a permit to install a deployable flood barrier? below)
  6. Plan for Integration: If deployable barriers are suitable, plan how they will be integrated into your building's flood preparedness strategy. This includes training for staff or occupants on deployment procedures and ensuring that the barriers are readily accessible when needed.

What types of deployable flood barriers exist?

 

Deployable flood barriers come in various types, each designed for different scenarios and levels of flood risk. Here’s a rundown of some common types:

  1. Inflatable Barriers: These are quick to deploy and typically consist of large, inflatable tubes that can be rapidly filled with air or water to form a barrier. They are often used in temporary or emergency situations.
  2. Modular Barriers: These systems consist of interlocking units that can be assembled to create a barrier of the desired length and height. They can be made from materials like plastic, metal, or composite materials and are useful for both temporary and semi-permanent installations.
  3. Hydraulic Barriers: These barriers use water pressure to create a seal. They typically consist of a flexible membrane supported by water-filled bladders or other hydraulic mechanisms. They can be effective for longer-term solutions and can adapt to various flood depths.
  4. Barrier Walls: These are often made from materials like concrete, metal, or reinforced plastic and can be erected or dismantled as needed. They can be either permanent or deployable.
  5. Sandbags and Water-filled Barriers: Traditional sandbags are still commonly used, though they are labor-intensive to deploy. Water-filled barriers are similar but use water instead of sand, offering quicker setup and removal.
  6. Rolling Barriers: These are large, roll-up barriers that can be unrolled and placed across an area to form a flood barrier. They are typically made from durable materials like heavy-duty fabrics or polymers and are often used for large-scale protection.
  7. Fabric and Composite Barriers: These barriers use advanced fabrics or composite materials to create a deployable barrier. They are often lightweight and designed for quick deployment and storage.
  8. Gates and Shields: These barriers can be deployed across doorways, driveways, or other openings. They are often used in combination with other types of barriers for added protection.

How do I talk to my building owner or super about deployable flood barriers?

If you are a tenant in a flood-prone building and aren't sure if your building manager or owner knows about flood deployables, share this page with them! It features a FAQ for property managers and owners to help them assess if a deployable flood barrier is right for their property.

 

 

  •  

How can I stay safe during a flood?

  1. Check out the Office of Emergency Management’s Tips for Dealing with a Flood. 
  2. Sign up for emergency notifications through AlertBoston.
  3. Know your zone! Know your hurricane evacuation zone and route and be prepared to evacuate if directed by public officials.
  4. Find out how vulnerable your home is to flooding and, if your home is in a flood-prone area, contact the National Flood Insurance program to learn what mitigation measures you can take in advance.
  5. If you live in a flood-prone area, keep these materials on hand: sandbags, plywood, lumber, plastic sheeting, trash bags, shovels, work boots, and gloves.
  6. Put together a disaster supply kit, including a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, copies of critical information, and non-perishable food items.

 

Emergency Preparedness Resources

Climate Resilience in Boston

Boston is taking action to adapt to and prepare for the impacts of climate change

Tips for dealing with a flood

We coordinate Emergency Management, Emergency Preparedness, and Homeland Security Planning for the City of Boston

Alert Boston

Sign up for emergency alerts
Have Questions?
/
email us at environment@boston.gov
Last updated:

Pan Jam in the Park

Part of the Community Canvas Series presented by the Office of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion bringing community events to Nubian Square this July, August, and September.

August 3, 2024
2024-08-03T16:00:00 - 2024-08-03T20:00:00

Experience the vibrant Caribbean sounds of talented youth and adult pan groups, accompanied by energetic island sounds. Enjoy a variety of delicious free tastings offerings from a Caribbean Chef Demo by Haley House Chefs, and immerse yourself in a glitter bar, face painting, and henna art. 

PAN JAM EN EL PARQUE

Parte de la Serie Lienzo Comunitario presentada por la Oficina de Inclusión y Oportunidades Económicas, que traerá eventos comunitarios a Nubian Square en julio, agosto y septiembre.

Experimente los vibrantes sonidos caribeños de talentosos grupos musicales de jóvenes y adultos, acompañados de enérgicos sonidos isleños. Disfrute de una variedad de deliciosas degustaciones gratuitas de una exhibición de cocina caribeña a cargo de Haley House Chefs, y sumérjase en un bar de purpurina, pintura de caras y arte con henna. 

PAN JAM NAN PARK

Yon pati nan Seri Twal Kominotè prezante pa Biwo Opòtinite Ekonomik ak Enklizyon, pote evènman kominotè yo nan Nubian Square sa a Jiyè, Out, ak Septanm.

Dekouvri son vibran Karayib la gwoup jèn ak adilt ki genyen talan ki akonpaye pa son enèjik zile yo. Pwofite de yon varyete bon kalite manje gratis ki genyen bon gou ak demonstrasyon chèf Haley House, epi plonje w nan yon ba ki byen klere, pentire figi, ak ar henna.

August 3, 2024
2024-08-03T16:00:00 - 2024-08-03T20:00:00
Last updated:

Future Fest

Transforming Boston's City Hall Plaza into an interactive playground of the future through music, light art, and dance!

August 3, 2024
  • 8:00pm - 11:00pm
  • 1 City Hall Square
    City Hall Plaza
    Boston, MA 02201-2006
  • Contact:
    Arts and Culture
  • send an email
  • Price:
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Citywide
    Downtown
  • Event Type:
    Art
    Festivals and fairs
    Music
    Outdoor
  • Posted:
2024-08-03T20:00:00 - 2024-08-03T23:00:00

Welcome to the future of art experiences!

MF Dynamics and the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture are collaborating to transform City Hall Plaza into an interactive playground of the future. Featuring multi-sensory live performances, participatory light art, and good vibes, the plaza will be activated by a cohort of incredible multidisciplinary regional artists.

Flyer for FUTURE FEST happening on City Hall Plaza Sat. August 3 from 8 - 11 PM

August 3, 2024
  • 8:00pm - 11:00pm
  • 1 City Hall Square
    City Hall Plaza
    Boston, MA 02201-2006
  • Contact:
    Arts and Culture
  • send an email
  • Price:
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Citywide
    Downtown
  • Event Type:
    Art
    Festivals and fairs
    Music
    Outdoor
  • Posted:
2024-08-03T20:00:00 - 2024-08-03T23:00:00
Last updated:

GLD FSTVL '24

GLD FSTVL is a free annual festival held in Boston, specifically at City Hall Plaza, with the overarching vision of celebrating Hip-Hop culture.

August 10, 2024
  • 12:00pm - 10:00pm
  • 1 City Hall Square
    Boston, MA 02201-2006
  • Contact:
    Arts and Culture
  • send an email
  • Price:
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Citywide
    Downtown
  • Event Type:
    Art
    Festivals and fairs
    Music
    Outdoor
  • Posted:
2024-08-10T12:00:00 - 2024-08-10T22:00:00

This event features live music performances, DJ sets, dance showcases, and various food and retail vendors. It serves as a platform to amplify Hip-Hop culture, particularly highlighting the contributions of regional artists alongside national acts. The festival aims to provide fair compensation, media visibility, and professional stage and sound systems for all performers. Additionally, it promotes inclusivity and celebrates the beauty of Black culture through Hip-Hop. The inaugural free festival in August 2023 hosted 15 artists and DJs honoring and celebrating the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop.

GLD FSTVL '24 graphic

August 10, 2024
  • 12:00pm - 10:00pm
  • 1 City Hall Square
    Boston, MA 02201-2006
  • Contact:
    Arts and Culture
  • send an email
  • Price:
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Citywide
    Downtown
  • Event Type:
    Art
    Festivals and fairs
    Music
    Outdoor
  • Posted:
2024-08-10T12:00:00 - 2024-08-10T22:00:00
Last updated:

Juneteenth Freedom Fest

June 30, 2024
2024-06-30T12:00:00 - 2024-06-30T16:00:00

Join us for a day of celebration, education, and community at the Boston Juneteenth Freedom Fest! This free public event commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and celebrates African American culture and contributions.

June 30, 2024
2024-06-30T12:00:00 - 2024-06-30T16:00:00
Last updated:

Embrace Ideas Festival

June 18 - June 21, 2024
2024-06-18T10:00:00 - 2024-06-21T15:00:00

The City of Boston is proud to partner with Embrace: The Embrace Ideas Festival, a yearly celebration grounded in arts, ideas, culture, and public scholarship, leading up to the Juneteenth holiday. This multi-day gathering brings together local, state, and national leaders to amplify anti-racism and envision a transformed Boston by 2030.

The Embrace Ideas Festival features keynotes, panels, and live music, shining a light on interrupting zero-sum game thinking regarding racial justice and realizing a democracy worthy of us all. The annual Fest is intentionally wrapped around Juneteenth, an essential holiday we uplift for those who have long celebrated it and invite those who may not have had the opportunity yet to join us in building a new national "monument" together.

Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when Union soldiers, led by General Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, and declared the end of the Civil War, freeing all enslaved persons. Although the Emancipation Proclamation had been official for over two years, slavery persisted in areas beyond Union control. The Union's takeover of Texas effectively liberated the remaining slaves in the state, ending this specific form of slavery in America.

We look forward to coming together as a community for this momentous occasion and honoring this significant day in our history. Join us in celebrating Juneteenth and envisioning a more just and equitable future for all.

June 18 - June 21, 2024
2024-06-18T10:00:00 - 2024-06-21T15:00:00
Last updated:

Embrace Ideas Festival

June 18 - June 21, 2024
2024-06-18T09:00:00 - 2024-06-21T15:00:00

The City of Boston is proud to partner with Embrace: The Embrace Ideas Festival, a yearly celebration grounded in arts, ideas, culture, and public scholarship, leading up to the Juneteenth holiday. This multi-day gathering brings together local, state, and national leaders to amplify anti-racism and envision a transformed Boston by 2030.

The Embrace Ideas Festival features keynotes, panels, and live music, shining a light on interrupting zero-sum game thinking regarding racial justice and realizing a democracy worthy of us all. Our annual Fest is intentionally wrapped around Juneteenth, an essential holiday we uplift for those who have long celebrated it and invite those who may not have had the opportunity yet to join us in building a new national "monument" together.

Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when Union soldiers, led by General Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, and declared the end of the Civil War, freeing all enslaved persons. Although the Emancipation Proclamation had been official for over two years, slavery persisted in areas beyond Union control. The Union's takeover of Texas effectively liberated the remaining slaves in the state, ending this specific form of slavery in America.

We look forward to coming together as a community for this momentous occasion and honoring this significant day in our history. Join us in celebrating Juneteenth and envisioning a more just and equitable future for all.

 

Tickets

June 18 - June 21, 2024
2024-06-18T09:00:00 - 2024-06-21T15:00:00
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