Young Professionals Happy Hour at Ninebark 

Join us for a fall evening of networking, conversation, and connection with fellow young professionals from across the region at Ninebark in West Newton. We’ll take over Ninebark’s inviting space — an ideal spot to relax after work, meet new people, and reconnect with familiar faces. Enjoy complimentary appetizers, check out Ninebark’s creative drink menu (cash bar), and soak up the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to expand your professional network, share ideas, or simply enjoy a fun night out, this is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded peers in a welcoming, low-pressure setting. Hosted by the Chamber’s Young Professionals Group, this event is open to professionals ages 21–40 who want to build relationships, grow their careers, and get more involved in the local business community.

Ninebark 

2025 Multi Chamber Expo 

Take your business to the next level! Join the Multi-Chamber Expo to give your company a competitive edge in sales, exposure &amp; networking. With a broad spectrum of products and services, you can expand your business while discovering others in the local business market. Who participates in the Expo? Companies who look for/want to:<ul><li>Network with buyers and decision-makers from businesses throughout the region</li><li>New sales opportunities&nbsp;</li><li>Face-to-face contact with customers and prospects</li><li>Food samples from select restaurants&nbsp;</li><li>Free Giveaways&nbsp;</li></ul>Why be an exhibitor?&nbsp;<ul><li>Receive -&nbsp;New Business Contacts! Raffle Prizes! Food Samples &amp; Special&nbsp;Expo&nbsp;Advertising.</li><li>Promote - Make a name for yourself. Introduce your business to new customers. Showcase to hundreds of business professionals.&nbsp;</li><li>Engage&nbsp;- This is a free event for the public. It draws a big crowd who love to discover local and regional businesses.</li></ul>Exhibitors Chamber Member Rate: $350 (6’ Table) $600 (12’ Table)&nbsp; Non-Member Rate: $450 (6’ Table) $700 (12’ Table) Nonprofits&nbsp;will receive an automatic $200 discount at checkout.&nbsp; Restaurants&nbsp;may email&nbsp;Maxime Isaac at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:misaac@charlesriverchamber.com">misaac@charlesriverchamber.com</a>&nbsp;to request a complimentary booth.&nbsp; ﻿ The Waltham Chamber of Commerce is operating this event, but we are collecting registration information for Charles River Chamber member businesses.

The Westin Waltham-Boston Hotel

Wellesley Night at Babson College

Come celebrate at our second annual Wellesley Night, moving to a stunning new location - the historic Knight Auditorium on the campus of Babson College. This special gathering brings local businesses, nonprofits, civic leaders, and neighbors for a night of connection, celebration, and inspiration. Enjoy lively conversations, make new connections, and reconnect with familiar faces while we recognize outstanding community achievements. Whether you work, live, shop, dine, or simply love spending time in Wellesley, this is your chance to be part of an event that celebrates the people, partnerships, and passions that define our town.

Babson College 

110th Fall Business Breakfast with AG Campbell

The Charles River Regional Chamber's signature annual gathering, presented by&nbsp;<a href="http://needhambank.com/">Needham Bank</a>,&nbsp;brings together hundreds of civic and business leaders for a morning of connection, inspiration, and celebration. The program will feature a fireside chat with Massachusetts’ Attorney General&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mass.gov/person/andrea-joy-campbell-attorney-general">Andrea Campbell</a>, and this year will also mark the Chamber’s 110th anniversary.

Boston Marriott Newton 

Needham Harvest Fair 

Mark your calendar for one of Needham’s favorite fall traditions! The Charles River Regional Chamber and Town of Needham’s annual Harvest Fair returns to Greene’s Field on Sunday, Oct. 5, featuring family-friendly activities, local business and nonprofit booths, food, entertainment, and more.

Greene's Field 

The Needham Harvest Fair, presented by Fidelity Bank and BXP, returns on Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 11 AM–3 PM at Greene’s Field. This free, family-friendly tradition brings the whole community together for a day of fun, food, and local pride. With more than 120 exhibitors, including local businesses, nonprofits, and the Needham Farmers Market, the fair has something for everyone. Highlights include:<ul><li>Free pumpkin patch courtesy of Condon Realty</li><li>Kids’ activities like face painting, bouncy house, balloon artists, crafts, and the Fire Department’s ladder truck</li><li>Shopping local with Michelson’s Shoe Sale and other popular merchants</li><li>Health &amp; wellness resources, including flu shots</li><li>Local bites from restaurants like Spiga and Hearth Pizzeria</li><li>Live music, raffles, and giveaways throughout the day</li></ul>Whether you’re browsing the Farmers Market, connecting with community organizations, or just soaking up the fall atmosphere, the Needham Harvest Fair is a can’t-miss celebration of all things local.

First Annual Newton Small Business Awards

The inaugural Newton Small Business Awards will take place in the historic West Newton Cinema. Be part of this special networking night alongside business owners, elected officials, and other community leaders to recognize these outstanding businesses and individuals that make Newton special.&nbsp; Event highlights&nbsp;<ul><li>Connect with small business owners, local professionals, residents, and nonprofit and civic leaders from throughout Newton&nbsp;</li><li>Enjoy expertly prepared light bites and beverages from Flora's Wine Bar</li><li>Indulge in freshly popped movie theater popcorn&nbsp;</li><li>Celebrate outstanding small businesses and individuals</li><li>More to be announced soon!&nbsp;</li></ul>Support the event by becoming an Event Friend $110, includes one ticket &amp; name recognition

West Newton Cinema 

Business After Hours at Gore Place

The Charles River and Waltham Chambers are teaming up for a special joint Business After Hours at the beautiful Gore Place! Mingle with professionals from across both chambers while enjoying complimentary refreshments in the historic carriage house and scenic grounds. It's a relaxed, welcoming evening of connection, conversation, and community - set in one of the region's most iconic venues. Don't miss this unique opportunity to grow your network in a truly memorable setting.

Gore Place 

Coffee Connect at Papa Razzi Wellesley

Start your morning off with coffee, conversation, and connections! The Charles River Regional Chamber's popular Coffee Connect series kicks off 2025 at Papa Razzi in Wellesley Hills. Our hosts are opening early exclusively for this event. Join us to expand your network, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships with fellow Chamber members and local business professionals. Our coffee connects often draw 75+ and are open to members and those interested in learning more about chamber membership. The Charles River Regional Chamber serves business professionals who either work/live in Needham. Newton, Watertown, Wellesley, or the surrounding areas.

Papa Razzi Wellesley

First-Annual Watertown Night at Donohue's: A Community Gathering

Connect with local business owners, professionals, civic leaders, and community members at our first-annual Watertown Night at Donohue's Bar &amp; Grill (note new location). Enjoy delicious food, network with fellow attendees, and celebrate our Watertown Business Awards honorees for their outstanding contributions to the community. Whether you live, work, shop, dine, do business, or simply love Watertown, this is a night you won’t want to miss!&nbsp; All ticket proceeds will benefit Watertown Boys &amp; Girls Club. The Charles River Regional Chamber serves business professionals who either work/live in Newton, Needham, Watertown, Wellesley, or the surrounding communities.

Donohue's Bar and Grill

Young Professionals Group Happy Hour at District 118

Join the Charles River Regional Chamber at District 118 Kitchen + Bar in Newton, a lively spot renowned for its creative cocktails and tasty bites. This event is a fantastic opportunity for young professionals (ages 21-40) who work/live in Newton, Needham, Watertown, and Wellesley to unwind after work, meet new people, and kick off the new year by expanding your network. Enjoy complimentary appetizers while you mingle (drinks are pay-as-you-go) and connect with fellow professionals at our first event of 2025. Don't miss out on this chance to make new connections, share ideas, and start the year with fresh opportunities!

District 118 Kitchen + Bar

LGBTQIA+ Holiday Happy Hour

Celebrate the holiday season with an LGBTQIA+ professionals Happy Hour at Ritcey East in Watertown! This is a great opportunity to connect with the local community, expand your professional network, and enjoy complimentary appetizers courtesy of our host. Whether you're a current member or interested in joining, all are welcome! Feel free to bring friends and colleagues along for the fun. Space is limited, so please RSVP in advance to help us plan accordingly.

Ritcey East

Regional Real Estate Forum

Our annual Regional Real Estate Forum is back, focusing this year on the competitiveness of our region and what steps we can take to boost economic vitality. Doug Howgate, president of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, will present the newly released <a href="https://www.masstaxpayers.org/massachusetts-competitiveness-index-report">Massachusetts Competitiveness Index</a>, which compares the state to others across 26 key metrics. After his presentation, a group of young professionals will share their challenges with housing in the region and what steps our cities and towns can take to be more competitive and welcoming for future generations. The discussion will continue with planning directors from Wellesley, Newton, Watertown, and Needham as they explore ways to work together to enhance the competitiveness of our communities. Event Details:<ul><li>Registration &amp; Networking: 8:45 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.</li><li>Program: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.</li></ul>Pricing Members $30, Nonmembers $40 Space is limited. The event will be recorded for those who cannot attend.

UMass Amherst Mount Ida Campus

Annual Networking After Hours & Holiday Gift Drive

Join the Charles River Regional Chamber to kick off the holiday season at a special networking event at Showcase SuperLux at The Street in Chestnut Hill. This year-end gathering is a great opportunity to meet new people, reconnect with others, and enjoy a festive atmosphere with delicious food and drinks (pay-as-you-go). In the spirit of the season, we’re asking attendees to bring an unwrapped gift for children ages newborn to 10 or make a $20 donation. All donations will go towards <a href="https://www.village-bank.com/holiday-gift-drive-2023/">Newton’s Holiday Gift Drive</a>, a community initiative to provide gifts for families in need. Gifts will be purchased at local shops, including Henry Bear's Park. If you can't attend but would like to help, <a href="https://charlesriverchamber.com/toy-drive">you can still donate</a> or find a drop-off box to support local families. Every little bit makes a difference! The Charles River Regional Chamber serves business professionals who work or live in Needham, Newton, Watertown, Wellesley, or the surrounding areas.

Showcase Superlux

Fall Business Breakfast 

Join us for the 109th Fall Business Breakfast, a signature event that brings together over 400 local residents, business professionals, and community leaders. This annual gathering is not only our largest fundraiser—supporting the Chamber’s year-round programs, operations, and advocacy—but also a valuable opportunity for networking, inspiration, and community connection. The event kicks off with a buffet breakfast and networking at 7:15 a.m., followed by an engaging program from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. Keynote Speaker: Steve Gross Steve Gross, a renowned advocate for the power of optimism, will be our keynote speaker. With over 30 years of experience, Steve’s journey began in 1989 when he founded Project Joy, a nonprofit that used joyful play to support homeless and impoverished children in Greater Boston. Now leading the Life is Good Playmaker Project, his work has gone global, impacting millions and training over 20,000 professionals. Steve will share insights on how optimistic leadership can drive success, especially in challenging times. Honoring Darryl Settles We are excited to present the R.L. Tennant Award, the Chamber’s highest honor, to Darryl Settles, founder of Catalyst Ventures Development. This award recognizes an individual who has made outstanding contributions to our communities. Whether you’re a local resident interested in community initiatives or a business professional looking to network, this event offers something for everyone. We hope to see you there! The Charles River Regional Chamber serves business professionals in Needham, Newton, Watertown, Wellesley, and the surrounding areas.

Marriott Newton

S22: conversations

Wondering what to do in Boston? Places to eat? Free activities? Good for a group? Date night spot? Girls night out? The best things to do? Ask Joyraft!

Best places to go in Boston? Things to do? Places to eat?

Questions & answers about things to do in Boston

Recs 💬

Community recs 💬

S4: top picks

The most fun, cool and unique things to do in Boston. Can’t miss events, shows and experiences. Concerts, restaurants, bars, free things in Boston and beyond.

The most fun and cool events happening around Boston

Hot and new things to do in Boston

Hot & new

Hot & new 🔥

S11: happening this weekend

What to do in Boston this weekend? From festivals, concerts, performances, free events, screenings and more, Joyraft has the best things to do in Boston.

25+ things to do in Boston/Cambridge/Somerville this weekend

Things to do in Boston this weekend

This wknd

This weekend for you

S21: roundups

Our top picks: outdoor dining, free events, spring festivals, best bars, upcoming concerts, museum parties - the latest in and around Boston.  Slug: joyraft-top-picks-best-things-to-do-boston-ma

Top picks of the best things to do in and around Boston

Joyraft picks: Boston’s best things to do

Roundups ⭐️

Curated by Joyraft ⭐️

S28: calendar experiences

This week in Boston

This week in Boston 📆

This week 📆

S20: c+d experiences

Discover new, unique events and experiences happening in and around Boston. Perfect for date night, good for a group or with a friend. Be the first to know.

The newest events happening in and around Boston

The newest events on Joyraft

Just added

Just added to Joyraft

S16: editor picks

The most unique and can’t miss things coming up in Boston / Cambridge / Somerville and beyond. Festivals, food, drinks, fairs, concerts, art and free activities.

Unique and Can’t Miss Things to Do in Boston

Can’t-miss things to do in Boston 🚨

Can't-miss things to do 🚨

S2 (A): top experiences

The most popular things to do on Joyraft. Concerts, restaurants, bars, events, parties, openings, kid friendly, date ideas, free things in Boston and beyond.

Top 20 things to do in Boston

Top 20: Joyraft’s most popular

Top 20

Top 20 on Joyraft

S3 (A): trending experiences

Discover can’t miss events and things to do in Boston. The most fun, unique and cool events coming to the Boston area this spring and summer.

The hottest events happening in Boston

Trending events on Joyraft

Trending 📈

S17: interest based

Your guide to everything free in and around Boston. From events, to fairs, to festivals, to outdoors. Joyraft has all the free events happening near you.

100+ free things to do in Boston and beyond

Free things to do in Boston

Free things to do

S19: interest based

Kid-friendly events in Boston

S18: interest based

Where to eat and drink in Boston? Joyraft has Boston’s newest bars, restaurants and specials. Drinks and pre fixe dinner menus. Cambridge & Somerville too.

Where

crrchamber

Experiences

Needham Harvest Fair

Needham Harvest Fair

Young Professionals Happy Hour at Ninebark

2025 Multi Chamber Expo

Wellesley Night at Babson College

110th Fall Business Breakfast with AG Campbell

First Annual Newton Small Business Awards

Business After Hours at Gore Place

Coffee Connect at Papa Razzi Wellesley

First-Annual Watertown Night at Donohue's: A Community Gathering

Young Professionals Group Happy Hour at District 118

LGBTQIA+ Holiday Happy Hour

Regional Real Estate Forum

Annual Networking After Hours & Holiday Gift Drive

Fall Business Breakfast