Monthly Spotlight: Black Congregants and OSMH

Based on original research conducted by Revolutionary Spaces staff, this month we are spotlighting the relationship between race, slavery, and Christianity at the Old South Meeting House. During the colonial period, Old South was one of the most popular churches for free and enslaved Black congregants in Boston, a place where they exercised a degree of control and experienced a form of equality in their spiritual lives that they were largely denied outside of the church. At the same time, many of Old South’s white congregants were slave owners who practiced a moderate form of Biblically-sanctioned Christian slavery championed by some of its most influential and leading members. We invite you to engage with this complex history and to learn about some of the figures whose thoughts on this topic have survived, including Judge Samuel Sewell and poet Phillis Wheatley. Afterwards we invite you to write a letter to one of these figures responding to their perspectives on the relationship between Christianity and slavery.

The Old South Meeting House

February Sensory Friendly Mornings

Revolutionary Spaces is pleased to continue Sensory-Friendly Mornings at the Old State House—special early open hours designed for visitors of all ages who benefit from a quieter, more supportive museum experience. With adjustments to lighting and sound, limited attendance, and hands-on activities, these mornings are ideal for people with sensory needs or those managing autoimmune or chronic illnesses, offering a welcoming way to explore Boston’s revolutionary past! Admission is free for children 12 and under, $5.00 for adults

Old State House Boston

February Hands-On History Days

Inspired by Children's Hours held at Old South Meeting House from the late 19th century through the early 20th century, join Revolutionary Spaces for a modern take on family fun at our historic sites and museums! Visit the Old South Meeting House and the Old State House throughout the year for activities for all ages of history enthusiasts, including themed games, crafts, scavenger hunts, gallery talks, music, and more! Hands-On History Day activities are included in the price of general admission and all children ages 12 and under get in to both the Old State House and Old South Meeting House for FREE!

Old South Meeting House

January Sensory Friendly Mornings

Revolutionary Spaces is pleased to continue Sensory-Friendly Mornings at the Old State House—special early open hours designed for visitors of all ages who benefit from a quieter, more supportive museum experience. With adjustments to lighting and sound, limited attendance, and hands-on activities, these mornings are ideal for people with sensory needs or those managing autoimmune or chronic illnesses, offering a welcoming way to explore Boston’s revolutionary past!

Christmas Eve Balcony Carols at the Old State House

This Christmas Eve, Revolutionary Spaces revives a long-forgotten Boston holiday tradition: live carols performed from the historic balcony of the Old State House. For the first time since World War II, the sounds of seasonal music will once again ring out over State Street, inviting passersby to pause, gather, and share in the spirit of the season. Originally introduced in 1913 by the Bostonian Society (Revolutionary Spaces’ predecessor organization), the balcony carols marked the start of the holiday season and the close of the business year in Boston’s financial district. The tradition came to an abrupt halt in 1942 when military buglers were deployed during World War II—and it never resumed. This year, Revolutionary Spaces proudly restores this century-old civic celebration, reconnecting past and present in one of Boston’s most storied public spaces. The 30-minute program features live trumpet performances of historic, public-domain carols documented in early 20th-century setlists, including favorites such as Adeste Fideles, Jingle Bells, The First Noel, and Angels We Have Heard on High. A bell ringing and town-crier–style announcement from the balcony will precede the music, honoring the return of this beloved holiday custom. This program is co-sponsored by the <a href="https://www.downtownboston.org/">Downtown Boston Alliance</a> and is free and open to the public thanks to their generous support. The program will begin promptly at 12:00 PM.

The Old State House

December Sensory Friendly Mornings

Revolutionary Spaces is pleased to continue Sensory-Friendly Mornings at the Old State House—special early open hours designed for visitors of all ages who benefit from a quieter, more supportive museum experience. With adjustments to lighting and sound, limited attendance, and hands-on activities, these mornings are ideal for people with sensory needs or those managing autoimmune or chronic illnesses, offering a welcoming way to explore Boston’s revolutionary past! Admission is FREE for all visitors ages 18 and under and&nbsp;<a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/support/membership/">Revolutionary Spaces members</a>. Adults tickets are $5. Members must present their digital membership cards upon arrival. Space is limited to 20 guests so reserve your spot today! Be sure to review our&nbsp;<a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/sensory-friendly-mornings/#knowbeforeyougo">Know Before You Go</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/sensory-friendly-mornings/#prepare">Prepare for Your Visit</a>&nbsp;information.

Boston Tea Party 252nd Anniversary Commemoration

Join Revolutionary Spaces at the Old South Meeting House for an evening of powerful performances, immersive storytelling, and patriotic spirit as we bring the Boston Tea Party vividly to life once more. Commemorate the 252nd anniversary of the Boston Tea Party on December 16th at 6:15pm with an unforgettable live reenactment of the Meeting of the Body of the People—held in the very room where it all began.  Your ticket also includes FREE museum admission to both of Revolutionary Spaces’ sites—the Old State House and Old South Meeting House—from Wednesday, December 17th through Sunday, December 21st (a $15 value)! Groups of 10 or more receive 30% off tickets—a perfect opportunity for families, schools, and community organizations to experience this historic event together. To book at the group rate, email <a href="mailto:Booking@RevolutionarySpaces.org">Booking@RevolutionarySpaces.org</a> to reserve your spots and enjoy the savings!

November Sensory Friendly Mornings at Revolutionary Spaces

With adjustments to lighting and sound, limited attendance, and hands-on activities, these mornings are ideal for people with sensory needs or those managing autoimmune or chronic illnesses, offering a welcoming way to explore Boston’s revolutionary past! To support a sensory-friendly experience, we will also provide:<ul><li>Limited admission to a maximum of 20 guests</li><li>Light classical music in the museum store</li><li>White noise in gallery spaces</li><li>Lighting adjustments in select galleries</li></ul>

October Sensory Friendly Mornings at Revolutionary Spaces

With adjustments to lighting and sound, limited attendance, and hands-on activities, these mornings are ideal for people with sensory needs or those managing autoimmune or chronic illnesses, offering a welcoming way to explore Boston’s revolutionary past! To support a sensory-friendly experience, we will provide:<ul><li>Limited admission to a maximum of 20 guests</li><li>Light classical music in the museum store</li><li>White noise in gallery spaces</li><li>Lighting adjustments in select galleries</li></ul>

The Let Out

When the House Party winds down, The Let Out begins. Co-hosted by Revolutionary Spaces and <a href="https://everyone250.org/about/">Everyone250</a>, The Let Out is a late-night celebration made for a new generation of revolutionaries. It’s where Boston’s past meets its future—in music, performance, and community. This is your chance to explore one of Boston’s most iconic landmarks—the Old State House—after hours. Experience Boston’s rich history in a fresh, engaging way, all while supporting a more inclusive 250th anniversary. Plus, it’s an opportunity to mix and mingle with friends and neighbors who love their city as much as you do. Space is limited, so <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1607638813969?aff=oddtdtcreator">grab your tickets</a> to The Let Out now for a night of fun, history, and community—and bring other party people! Admission is free, though donations are encouraged. The Let Out is the after party for our fundraiser taking place at the Old South Meeting House earlier in the night! Click <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/house-party-2025/">here</a> to learn more.

Sensory Friendly Morning at The Old State House

Revolutionary Spaces is pleased to introduce Sensory-Friendly Mornings at the Old State House—special early open hours designed for visitors of all ages who benefit from a quieter, more supportive museum experience. With adjustments to lighting and sound, limited attendance, and hands-on activities, these mornings are ideal for people with sensory needs or those managing autoimmune or chronic illnesses, offering a welcoming way to explore Boston’s revolutionary past!

King Hancock: A Man of Capital

Revolutionary Spaces, in partnership with the <a href="https://www.colonialsociety.org/">Colonial Society of Massachusetts</a>, is pleased to host a spirited discussion of John Hancock’s role as a mover and shaker in Massachusetts’ 18th century evolution from Colony to Commonwealth. Join us as we examine the Commonwealth’s first governor, the self-described “Man of Capital” and the veritable “King” of Massachusetts. Our featured guest for this special event will be Dr. Brooke Barbier, author of <a href="https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674271777">King Hancock: The Radical Influence of a Moderate Founding Father</a>. Promising an insightful and engaging look at the man who helped to finance the patriot movement on his way to becoming President of the Continental Congress and Governor of Massachusetts, this program will feature an exclusive exhibition of select items from the Revolutionary Spaces collection of John Hancock artifacts. This program is free and open to the public thanks to the generous support of the <a href="https://lowellinstitute.org/">Lowell Institute</a>. Doors will open at 6:30 pm and the program will begin at 7:00 pm. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided courtesy of <a href="https://www.democracybrewing.com/">Democracy Brewing</a>. Seating for this event is very limited and admission cannot be guaranteed without pre-registration. In addition, all registrants will be required to reconfirm their attendance in writing 72 hours prior to the event in order to maintain their seat. If registrants do not confirm at that time, their place will be made available to someone on the waitlist. The first 50 registered attendees will receive complimentary copies of the newly-released paperback edition of Dr. Barbier’s book.&nbsp; About the Speaker&nbsp; Dr. Brooke Barbier: Brooke Barbier is a public historian with a PhD in American history from Boston College. She is the author of King Hancock: The Radical Influence of a Moderate Founding Father, which won the 2024 New England Historical Association James P. Hanlan Book Award, as well as the New England Society Nonfiction Book of the Year Award, and  Boston in the American Revolution: A Town versus an Empire. She founded and operates Ye Olde Tavern Tours, a popular guided outing along Boston’s renowned Freedom Trail.&nbsp;

Old State House

James Otis, Jr. and Mental Health in the Eighteenth Century:  A Virtual Exhibit Opening

Join Revolutionary Spaces and the <a href="https://www.nmmhproject.org/">National Museum of Mental Health Project</a> (NMMHP) at the Old State House for a special reception celebrating the launch of the virtual exhibit Patriot, Hero, Distracted Person: James Otis, Jr. and Mental Health in the Eighteenth Century.  Reception attendees will have the first chance to look at and interact with this new online exhibit that explores the life and impact of Massachusetts patriot James Otis, Jr. through the lens of his mental illness. You will also hear remarks by exhibit creators Paul Piwko, Kate LaPine, and Revolutionary Spaces Exhibits Manager Lucy Pollock. This program is free and open to the public thanks to the generous support of the <a href="https://lowellinstitute.org/">Lowell Institute</a>. Doors will open at 6:00 pm and the program will begin at 6:30 pm. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. Seating for this event is very limited and admission cannot be guaranteed without pre-registration. In addition, all registrants will be required to reconfirm their attendance in writing 72 hours prior to the event in order to maintain their seat. If registrants do not confirm at that time, their place will be made available to someone on the waitlist.

An Unfulfilled Promise: Desegregation and Busing in Boston

During the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s and 1970s, while much of the nation's attention was turned toward the South, Northern states and cities also grappled with how to respond to Black Americans' calls for equal rights and treatment. This included Boston, which was gripped in a contentious debate over the issue of segregation in the city's public schools. This debate ultimately produced a 1974 court case, known as Morgan v. Hennigan, which required the city to integrate its public schools through busing and whose consequences continue to reverberate to this day. In An Unfulfilled Promise: Desegregation and Busing in Boston, we invite you to explore the history around Morgan v. Hennigan and more. Learn about the context leading to the push for school desegregation and some of the key Bostonians on both sides of the school segregation question. Explore the role of the Old State House in this story, consider the challenges the Boston Public School system continues to face, and share your thoughts on the state of public schooling in America today. We welcome you to join us in commemorating the 50th anniversary of this key moment in Boston's long and storied history. Details: Open Daily at the Old State House Entrance is included in the price of admission.

Sensory-Friendly Mornings at Revolutionary Spaces

Revolutionary Spaces is pleased to introduce Sensory-Friendly Mornings at the Old State House—special early open hours designed for visitors of all ages who benefit from a quieter, more supportive museum experience. With adjustments to lighting and sound, limited attendance, and hands-on activities, these mornings offer a welcoming way to explore Boston’s revolutionary past! Special Activities In addition to offering calm and comfortable access to all of our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/exhibits/#OldStateHouse">exhibits</a> at the Old State House, guests can enjoy the following special activities:<ul><li>Stamp Act activities in the <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/sensory-friendly-mornings/...">Colony to Commonwealth</a> exhibit</li><li>Conservation-themed coloring pages in the Lion and Unicorn annex</li><li>Paper boat making, inspired by the <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/monthly-spotlight-series/">Liberty Affair</a>, in the <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/historic-rooms/council-chamber/">Council Chamber</a> </li></ul>To support a sensory-friendly experience, we will also provide:<ul><li>Limited admission to a maximum of 20 guests</li><li>Light classical music in the museum store</li><li>White noise in gallery spaces</li><li>Lighting adjustments in select galleries</li></ul>Purchase Tickets Admission is FREE for all visitors ages 18 and under and <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/support/membership/">Revolutionary Spaces members</a>. Adults tickets are $5. Members must present their digital membership cards upon arrival. Space is limited to 20 guests so reserve your spot today! Tickets can be purchased here: <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/events/249019">https://revolutionaryspaces.thundertix.com/events/249019</a> Preparing for Your Visit Revolutionary Spaces is committed to creating inclusive spaces where all visitors can connect with the people, ideas, and events that shaped our nation. Please review the following additional information to help you best prepare for your visit. If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at <a href="mailto:booking@revolutionaryspaces.org">booking@revolutionaryspaces.org</a>. <ul><li>Guests who have purchased tickets may arrive at the Old State House anytime between 9:00am and 10:00am. We recommend allotting at least 30 minutes to explore the museum. Please note that the museum opens to the public at 10:00am.</li><li>We ask that you observe our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/museum-policies/">Museum Policies</a> to ensure all guests have a pleasant experience.</li><li>The Old State House is currently not handicap accessible. Please review our <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/visit/accessibility/">Accessibility Information</a> to learn more.</li><li>The Museum Store at the Old State House will be open during Sensory-Friendly Mornings.</li><li>The <a href="https://venue.kulturecity.org/venues/revolutionary-spaces-old-state-house">Old State House</a> is a KultureCity Sensory Inclusive Certified Venue. Click <a href="https://www.kulturecity.org/">here</a> to learn more.</li><li>All sales are final. Exchanges may be honored if space is available on another date.</li></ul>Reserve your spot to join us for a thoughtful and engaging morning of history!

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

joyraft.host13107

Experiences