Boston Birding with Family

Boston is home to a surprising variety of birds, and this recurring program is your family's ticket to exploring this hidden world together. Walk the trails of Boston Nature Center, learning to spot and identify local residents and seasonal visitors by their behaviors, field marks, and calls. With weekly sessions throughout the summer, each opportunity offers a timely opportunity to learn more about migration, habitat, and survival strategies, giving kids and adults alike a richer picture of the birds living alongside us in the city. Binoculars and field guides are provided, so all you need to bring is curiosity. Merlin and eBird are also introduced, connecting families to a global community of citizen scientists and an easy way to take the adventure with you. Registration is required. <a href="https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/boston-nature-center/103020-boston-birding-with-family#">Register!</a>

Mass Audubon's Boston Nature Center

Golden Hour Concert at Magazine Beach Park

Enjoy summer in the park at golden hour with a soundtrack! This free outdoor concert, presented in collaboration with Berklee College of Music and local musicians, brings live music to the park as the sun sets over the Charles River, with sets ranging from soothing acoustics to danceable beats. Spread out on the grass, take in the skyline, and let the evening do its thing. The July event will feature music from the Klemer Trio, led by Iranian clarinetist, composer, and multi-instrumentalist Mehrpouya Daneshvar. Originally from Zanjan, Iran, Daneshvar draws on a rich musical background that began in early childhood. His music combines the melodic and modal systems of Iranian classical music (Radif) with the improvisational language of jazz, fusion, and world music. Check in when you arrive. Preregistration is not required for this program.

Magazine Beach Nature Center

Bachata by the River

Baila con la puesta de sol! Join Liz and Lumyr, two of Cambridge's prominent Bachata instructors, for a fun sunset dance class. Bachata is an easy to learn partner dance that can be applied to many music genres. Whether you are an expert or have never danced before, connect with the local bachata community surrounded by nature! We will begin with an hour-long introductory lesson, followed by unstructured time for dancing and practicing your new moves. This program is co-sponsored by Magazine Beach Partners. Registration is required. <a href="https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/magazine-beach/102435-bachata-by-the-river#">Register!</a>

Pride in Nature

Celebrate Pride where it belongs—out in the open. Come together for a joyful afternoon of community art-making and guided exploration, where creativity and nature meet in one vibrant space. Try your hand at printmaking, collage, and button-making, then head outside for a guided nature walk highlighting the ecology of the season and the importance of building inclusive outdoor spaces for everyone. Whether you're here to make art, explore the trails, or simply be in community, this is a space built on connection, joy, and belonging. All are welcome. Come as you are. This program is free if you are a member of Dot Rx; Dox Rx members should email bnc@massaudubon.org to register. Registration is required. <a href="https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/boston-nature-center/102290-pride-in-nature#">Register!</a>

Nesting Birds of Magazine Beach

Magazine Beach hosts close to 50 nesting bird species, as well as many others who flock here to find food in the summer. Take a stroll and watch for signs of breeding like courtship, nest building, nests with young, and fledglings. Possible species include Northern Yellow Warbler, Cedar Waxwing, Cooper's Hawk, and Great Blue Heron. Our resident Peregrine Falcon pair may even have young in their nest! Registration is required. <a href="https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/magazine-beach/102350-nesting-birds-of-magazine-beach#">Register!</a>

Juneteenth Bird Walk

Let's celebrate Juneteenth with birds! Join us to observe resident birds and spring migrants in a unique urban habitat that is a favorite stomping ground for many bird species. Local bird enthusiasts will help us find and identify birds through field marks, sounds, and behaviors. Birders of all levels will enjoy these guided walks. Everyone is welcome! Registration is required. <a href="https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/boston-nature-center/102215-juneteenth-bird-walk#">Register!</a>

Pan in the Park Jamboree

Experience the vibrant spirit of Caribbean-American culture through food, music, and art! Immerse yourself in the rhythms of the islands with music from steel pan bands Tempo and the Cambridge Youth Steel Orchestra that will have you dancing in no time. Try delicious, authentic Caribbean food, and explore hands-on craft activities that bring the region's artistry and traditions to life. This event is made possible by Cambridge Carnival International, who have celebrated the revolutionary legacies of Afro-Caribbean and African American communities for over 30 years.

Nature Journaling in the Wild

Connect with nature on a new level by slowing down, looking closely, and putting your creative energy on the page. This monthly gathering at Boston Nature Center is a welcoming space for anyone who loves to journal, sketch, or simply slow down outdoors. Each session explores a seasonal topic through creative prompts—observing local plants, animal signs, and ecological changes—while building a warm community of curious participants. All experience levels are welcome, and materials are available to borrow if you don't have your own. Whether you've kept a nature journal for years or are just starting out, you'll leave with fresh observations and a deeper appreciation for what's growing and moving around you.

Birds and Brew

Kick back with brews, food and activities at the Boston Nature Center after dark! Meet charismatic birds of prey from our sister sanctuary, Blue Hills Trailside Museum, groove to music, and sip on craft beer and cider from local brewers. Then, challenge your brain with trivia, try your luck in the raffle, and grab a complimentary bite from delicious food trucks! Early Bird pricing ends May 31st! Registration is required. <a href="https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/boston-nature-center/103171-birds-and-brew#">Register!</a>

Greener Good Market at Magazine Beach

Discover unique, eco-friendly treasures at Magazine Beach Park Nature Center's first ever Greener Good Market! Local vendors will showcase handcrafted goods made from sustainable materials, including upcycled art, natural skincare, zero-waste home essentials, and more. Every purchase supports small businesses and promotes a greener future in our community. Entry into the market is free for all. Check in when you arrive. Preregistration is not required for this program.

Boston Compost Certificate Program

Do you want to waste less and live more sustainably? This Boston Compost Certificate Program, in partnership with the City of Boston, digs into the hows and whys of composting in Boston. This three-day training is designed to help you learn about the impact of food waste on the environment and its connection to climate change. Each module will include practical knowledge, hands-on activities, and guest speakers. This series will begin with a hands-on introduction to soil science at the Boston Nature Center, followed by field trips to Brick End Farm and The Urban Farming Institute. Participants will experience hands-on composting and gardening techniques, and the program will conclude with an opportunity to explore individual and collective actions to support soil health and mitigate climate change. This program is open only to Boston residents. Registration is required. <a href="https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/boston-nature-center/102077-boston-compost-certificate-program#">Register!</a>

Bike and Bird

Pedal through dedicated bike lanes with stops at Jamaica Pond and the Emerald Necklace, where birds are actively foraging in the early morning light. You'll spot species grabbing breakfast, learn to distinguish residents from travelers, and discover which birds treat these urban greenways as home. The bike ride will conclude at Magazine Beach, where you can explore the Greener Good Market happening that day. Register for free here: <a href="https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/boston-nature-center/102058-bike-and-bird#">Register!</a>

Statewide Volunteer Day at the Boston Nature Center

Celebrate Earth Month with a day of service at Boston Nature Center! Spend your morning working on trail maintenance, play-yard refurbishment, and waking up pollinator gardens as part of Mass Audubon's Statewide Volunteer Day. Volunteers will be provided with the tools and equipment needed to help clear litter and debris, weed pollinator gardens, remove invasive plants, and refresh our preschool play yards. Learn more and sign up for free here: <a href="https://volunteer.massaudubon.org/need/detail/?need_id=1225859">Accessible Work for Wildlife | Mass Audubon</a>

Nature and Wellness: Wildflower Identification and Making Natural Remedies

As the landscape wakes up from winter, it brings with it some of nature's most powerful medicine. In this workshop, you'll step into the world of traditional herbal wisdom and discover how spring's first wildflowers can support the body, especially the lymphatic system, which craves movement after the slower cold months. We'll explore the Clark Cooper Community Garden together, learning to identify wildflowers and understand their botanical elements before foraging them firsthand to make a fresh herbal tea. You'll also craft a take-home remedy to carry a little bit of spring's healing energy with you. This program is free if you are a member of Dot Rx. Please email&nbsp;bnc@massaudubon.org&nbsp;to register. Registration is required. <a href="https://www.massaudubon.org/programs/boston-nature-center/101928-nature-and-wellness-wildflower-identification-and-making-natural-remedies#">Register!</a>

Greener Good Market at the Boston Nature Center

Discover unique, eco-friendly treasures at the Boston Nature Center’s second Greener Good Market! Local vendors will showcase handcrafted goods made from sustainable materials, including upcycled art, natural skincare, zero-waste home essentials, and more. Every purchase supports small businesses and promotes a greener future in our community. Entry into the Greener Good Market is free for all, no registration required! For more information please visit the Mass Audubon website: <a href="https://www.massaudubon.org/places-to-explore/wildlife-sanctuaries/boston-nature-center/news/greener-good-market-at-the-boston-nature-center2">Greener Good Market at the Boston Nature Center</a>

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 📈

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

hazen.emersonbnc

Experiences