"A Christmas Carol" at the Omni Parker House

A Timeless Tale for the Season: A Christmas Carol Brought to Life in a Magical Holiday Reading! Step back in time and experience the magic of the season with an unforgettable evening in the historic Press Room at the&nbsp;Omni Parker House, where&nbsp;Charles Dickens&nbsp;himself once stayed and rehearsed&nbsp;A Christmas Carol. Join us for an elaborate reading of this timeless classic, performed by veteran actor&nbsp;Johnny Kinsman, whose captivating storytelling brings Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey to life. The performance will be enriched by the luminous vocals of&nbsp;Ann Moss&nbsp;and the stirring violin of&nbsp;Justin Ouellet. The evening includes a&nbsp;$10 voucher&nbsp;towards a festive beer or wine at the&nbsp;"Bah Humbug Bar"&nbsp;(set up just outside the Press Room), and opening remarks by Parker House historian&nbsp;Susan Wilson, who will share the fascinating connection between Dickens and the hotel. Don’t miss this unique blend of history, music, and theatrical tradition in the very place where Dickens first gave voice to his beloved tale. A truly magical holiday experience awaits! Appropriate for Ages 6+ Friday December 19th 2025 @ 7:00 PM Saturday December 20th 2025 @ 5:00 PM Sunday December 21st 2025 @ 5:00 PM

Omni Parker House

A Timeless Tale for the Season: A Christmas Carol Brought to Life in a Magical Holiday Reading! Step back in time and experience the magic of the season with an unforgettable evening in the historic Press Room at the&nbsp;Omni Parker House, where&nbsp;Charles Dickens&nbsp;himself once stayed and rehearsed&nbsp;A Christmas Carol. Join us for an elaborate reading of this timeless classic, performed by veteran actor&nbsp;Johnny Kinsman, whose captivating storytelling brings Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey to life. The performance will be enriched by the luminous vocals of&nbsp;Ann Moss&nbsp;and the stirring violin of&nbsp;Justin Ouellet. The evening includes a&nbsp;$10 voucher&nbsp;towards a festive beer or wine at the&nbsp;"Bah Humbug Bar"&nbsp;(set up just outside the Press Room), and opening remarks by Parker House historian&nbsp;Susan Wilson, who will share the fascinating connection between Dickens and the hotel. Don’t miss this unique blend of history, music, and theatrical tradition in the very place where Dickens first gave voice to his beloved tale. A truly magical holiday experience awaits! Appropriate for Ages 6+ Friday December 19th 2025 @ 7:00 PM Saturday December 20th 2025 @ 5:00 PM Sunday December 21st 2025 @ 5:00 PM

A Timeless Tale for the Season: A Christmas Carol Brought to Life in a Magical Holiday Reading! Step back in time and experience the magic of the season with an unforgettable evening in the historic Press Room at the Omni Parker House, where Charles Dickens himself once stayed and rehearsed A Christmas Carol. Join us for an elaborate reading of this timeless classic, performed by veteran actor Johnny Kinsman, whose captivating storytelling brings Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey to life. The performance will be enriched by the luminous vocals of Ann Moss and the stirring violin of Justin Ouellet. The evening includes a $10 voucher towards a festive beer or wine at the "Bah Humbug Bar" (set up just outside the Press Room), and opening remarks by Parker House historian Susan Wilson, who will share the fascinating connection between Dickens and the hotel. Don’t miss this unique blend of history, music, and theatrical tradition in the very place where Dickens first gave voice to his beloved tale. A truly magical holiday experience awaits! Appropriate for Ages 6+ Friday December 19th 2025 @ 7:00 PM Saturday December 20th 2025 @ 5:00 PM Sunday December 21st 2025 @ 5:00 PM

A Revolutionary Concert: Paul Revere, the Man, the Myth, the Music

Join the Paul Revere Memorial Association, Massachusetts Poet Laureate Regie Gibson, and Paul Revere for an engaging and immersive, free program to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Midnight Ride. From the loyalist anthems of the Tories, to the fiery songs of the Revolutionaries, and original 19th century compositions written to further Revere’s legacy this program brings 18th and 19th century America to life through the music of the times. The evening will include performances by some of Boston’s finest musicians. Blending rich narration, historical images, and live music, this program offers a fresh, moving, and insightful take on one of the Revolution’s most misunderstood heroes. Far more than just a messenger on horseback, Paul Revere was a devoted family man, a savvy businessman, and a respected civil servant. This special evening promises to be a powerful journey through sound and story, separating fact from folklore while painting a vivid portrait of one of America’s most iconic patriots. Major support for this program has been provided by the Freedom Trail Foundation and an anonymous donor.

Converse Hall

The Old Howard Theater: From Virtuoso to Vaudeville and Vice

The Old Howard Theatre witnessed more than a century of history, and now it’s your turn to experience its storied past like never before. Join us for a special live performance featuring Dan Gabel with Josiah Reibstein and the Hubtones that takes you through the vibrant history of this iconic venue, blending music, storytelling, and a bit of vaudeville “schtick” to bring the theater’s rich legacy to life. Not long after it was built for a church congregation anticipating the end of days, the Howard Athenaeum became a theater for opera, ballet, and drama. Over time, it shifted to vaudeville and eventually became Boston’s most famous burlesque house. The Howard featured famous comedians and boxing demonstrations from legendary fighters. Raided by the vice squad in 1953, the Old Howard was shuttered and destroyed by a mysterious fire in 1961. This one-of-a-kind performance will pay homage to the unforgettable acts that once graced its stage, and give you an intimate look at the always fascinating, sometimes surprising, and occasionally sordid stories behind the theater's history—you won’t want to miss it! Limited seating. Age 21+ This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

The West End Museum

Redcoats & Rebels: A Musical Duel Across the Atlantic

As America’s 250th approaches, prepare to close your eyes and listen to the soundtrack of the Revolutionary War. Step back into the 18th century for an evening where violins face off with fiddles in a thrilling soundscape of revolution and refinement! In “Redcoats &amp; Rebels,” we pit the earthy, spirited tunes of colonial America—full of rustic reels and fiery anthems—against the polished minuets and majestic airs reigning over Georgian Britain. From the lively dance tunes that echoed through taverns in Boston to the regal melodies performed in London’s grandest halls, this concert featuring a quartet of some of Boston’s highest-acclaimed musicians paints a vivid picture of two worlds on the brink of historic change. Which side will win your ear: the bold, rebellious rhythms of the colonies or the elegant, aristocratic strains of the British crown? Bring your tricorn hat or powdered wig (or both!) and prepare for an unforgettable night of music, mischief, and a playful clash of cultures. Long live the music of liberty—and loyalty! This event would not have been possible without the support of Boston Properties (BXP). This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

The Hub on Causeway

"Now is the Hour" A Tribute to Buddy Clark

On October 1, 1949, Buddy Clark hopped onto a chartered plane headed to Los Angeles after a Stanford/Michigan football game. Approaching its destination, the plane ran out of gas and crash-landed on Beverly Boulevard. Clark alone perished. He was just 37 years old and set to make his CBS TV network debut the following night. He remains one of the West End’s most famous residents, an eternally memorable crooning star alongside Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and Perry Como. Join The West End Museum for a heartfelt musical tribute celebrating the life and legacy of Buddy Clark, one of the golden voices of the 1930s and '40s. This program features classic hits like “Linda,” “Now is the Hour,” and “I’ll Dance at Your Wedding,” performed live by talented vocalist Dan Gabel, accompanied by Josiah Reibstein and The Hubtones. Through music and storytelling, we honor the warmth, charm, and unforgettable voice that made Buddy Clark a beloved star of the big band era. <img src="https://img.evbuc.com/https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.evbuc.com%2Fimages%2F1026824693%2F1674063172323%2F1%2Foriginal.20250508-234103?h=740&amp;w=1200&amp;auto=format%2Ccompress&amp;q=75&amp;sharp=10&amp;rect=0%2C222%2C1200%2C184&amp;s=a5da3e5e66049965fb08fdefd2242685"> This event would not have been possible without the support of Boston Properties (BXP).

Harmonies of Majesty: Music from the Court of King George III

As radical and enlightened eighteenth-century politics and ideologies swept across the American Colonies, songs and ballads such as “Yankee Doodle”— originally sung by British military officers as a way to mock the sad state of the colonists and their army—gained familiarity in the revolutionary era musical consciousness. Conversely, in the private homes of colonial Loyalists and on the other side of the Atlantic at the court of King George III and Queen Charlotte, musical taste was still clinging to more formal classical traditions. Through a curated selection of works, this program of chamber music illuminates the rich tapestry of British music during a period of imperial challenge and transformation. Each composition offers a glimpse into the diverse musical expressions of the time amidst the challenges posed by the American colonies' fight for independence. With the talents of period instrument specialists Adriane Post (violin), Renée Hemsing (viola), and Guy Fishman (cello), journey back to a time when music echoed the hopes, dreams, and conflicts of those loyal to the British Crown during the American Revolution. This "Tory Story" invites you to experience history through the emotive musical power of Handel, Haydn, and Mozart, the way that King George may have heard it, and celebrate the richness of cultural expression and the transformative impact of music during one of history's most defining moments.

Lexington Historical Society

From Cedars to Sands: Music of the Aegean and the Levant

Welcome to&nbsp;From Cedars to Sands: Music from the Aegean and the Levant! Join us for an unforgettable evening of mesmerizing music that showcases the diverse musical traditions of Turkey, Greece, Iran, Kurdistan, Armenia, and the Arab world. The performance features Tev Stevig, a multi-instrumentalist specializing in Balkan, Greek, Turkish, and Afghan instruments, and Beth Bahia Cohen, a master of Middle Eastern and Balkan bowed instruments. This in-person event will be held at&nbsp;Stonehurst, the Robert Treat Paine Estate, a stunning venue that perfectly complements the enchanting music. Reservations required. This performance is free, but 100% of your generous donation in any amount will go to the musicians. Suggested donation $15.

Robert Treat Paine Estate "Stonehurst"

Harmonies of the Aegean and the Levant

Harmonies of the Aegean and the Levant&nbsp;celebrates the diverse and vibrant musical traditions of the Levantine region. To pay homage to the West End’s rich cultural heritage,&nbsp;Harmonies&nbsp;showcases the Levant's unique soundscape through a selection of traditional and contemporary compositions from Turkey, Greece, Iran, Kurdistan, Armenia, and the Arab world. From the hauntingly beautiful melodies of classical Arabic music to the lively rhythms of folk dances, this performance will immerse the audience in the region’s profound musical heritage. The program stars Boston-based multi-instrumentalist Tev Stevig, who specializes in a variety of plucked string instruments from the Balkans, Greece, Turkey, and Afghanistan and Beth Bahia Cohen,&nbsp;a master of many bowed string instruments from the Middle East and the Balkans. <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/harmonies-of-the-aegean-and-the-levant-tickets-1272787594959?aff=ebdssbdestsearch">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/harmonies-of-the-aegean-and-the-levant-tickets-1272787594959?aff=ebdssbdestsearch</a>

Let the Children Sing: A Tribute to William Cooper Nell

Join the&nbsp;Beacon Hill Civic Association&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Museum of African American History&nbsp;for a transformative afternoon that intertwines the power of music and the spoken word as we celebrate the life and legacy of&nbsp;William Cooper Nell, a pioneering abolitionist, author, and advocate for education for African Americans who believed that knowledge was key to empowerment. Acclaimed educator and storyteller&nbsp;Regie Gibson&nbsp;will capture Cooper Nell’s fervent spirit and dedication to the fight against slavery and the ongoing struggle for freedom as the&nbsp;Eastern Mass. Youth Ensemble&nbsp;under the direction of Linda Brown-San Martin and&nbsp;City Strings United&nbsp;under the direction of Bithyah Israel perform a selection of powerful vocal and musical compositions that reflect the historical context of Nell's work. From spirituals that echo the voices of those who fought for liberation to contemporary pieces that resonate with today's social movements, the music will serve as a bridge connecting past and present commemorating a true champion of freedom and justice. This uplifting program for an audience of all ages not only celebrates the legacy of abolitionism but also encourages continued reflection and action toward a more just society.

Museum of African American History

This holiday season, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Charles Dickens’s beloved tale, "A Christmas Carol," as it returns to the historic Omni Parker House for two performances, Sunday December 8th and Thursday December 19th, 2024. Performed in the Press Room, with its rich history and classic charm, this timeless production promises to kindle the festive spirit and touch your heart with its powerful message of redemption and goodwill. Johnny Kinsman is back with his elaborative reading of Dickens's cherished story featuring the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, his spirited encounters with the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, and the heartwarming transformation that follows. The story will come alive with the musical talents of violinist Justin Ouellet and soprano Ann Moss, and an introduction by Parker House historian Susan Wilson to enhance the magical experience. And that’s not all! In the “spirit” of holiday giving, your ticket includes a $10 voucher to the Parker House’s famed whiskey bar “The Last Hurrah,” decked out in holiday splendor. This production is perfect for audiences of all ages. Bring your loved ones to share in the joy and wonder of Scrooge’s transformation, and enjoy a heartwarming evening that will become a cherished holiday tradition. Tickets are available now, and we encourage early booking to ensure your place at this unforgettable holiday event. ("A Christmas Carol" is also being performed December 8 at 5:00 pm.)

This holiday season, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Charles Dickens’s beloved tale, "A Christmas Carol," as it returns to the historic&nbsp;Omni Parker House&nbsp;for two performances,&nbsp;Sunday&nbsp;December 8th&nbsp;and&nbsp;Thursday December 19th, 2024. Performed in the Press Room, with its rich history and classic charm, this timeless production promises to kindle the festive spirit and touch your heart with its powerful message of redemption and goodwill. Johnny Kinsman&nbsp;is back with his elaborative reading of Dickens's cherished story featuring the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, his spirited encounters with the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, and the heartwarming transformation that follows. The story will come alive with the musical talents of violinist&nbsp;Justin Ouellet&nbsp;and soprano&nbsp;Ann Moss,&nbsp;and an introduction by Parker House historian&nbsp;Susan Wilson&nbsp;to enhance the magical experience. And that’s not all! In the “spirit” of holiday giving, your ticket includes a&nbsp;$10 voucher&nbsp;to the Parker House’s famed whiskey bar “The Last Hurrah,” decked out in holiday splendor. This production is perfect for audiences of all ages. Bring your loved ones to share in the joy and wonder of Scrooge’s transformation, and enjoy a heartwarming evening that will become a cherished holiday tradition. Tickets are available now, and we encourage early booking to ensure your place at this unforgettable holiday event. "A Christmas Carol" is also being performed on December 19th at 6:30 pm.

Whispers from the Veil: A Victorian Séance Experience

The&nbsp;Gibson House Museum,&nbsp;a 19th century rowhouse and time-capsule of Victorian Boston, provides the authentic ambiance of the Victorian era to embark on a mesmerizing journey into the realm of the supernatural and&nbsp;discover the compelling story of Mina Crandon, renowned as&nbsp;"Margery the Medium,"&nbsp;whose séances in early 20th century Boston captivated audiences and sparked controversial and heated debates about the existence of paranormal abilities. Your hour-long journey will take you into the world of&nbsp;Harry Houdini, the legendary escape artist and illusionist who dedicated his life to exposing fraudulent mediums, and the dual persona of&nbsp;Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, acclaimed author of Sherlock Holmes and a staunch advocate for spiritualism. As you tour the Gibson House*, you’ll&nbsp;experience the rituals and practices that intrigued and confounded Crandon, Houdini, and Conan Doyle and unravel the intertwined lives and beliefs of three extraordinary individuals. Reserve your place now for an unforgettable journey into the Victorian unknown! *The tour involves periods of standing and climbing and descending stairs.

The Gibson House Museum

Echoes of Liberté: Music from the French Revolution

During the&nbsp;American Revolution,&nbsp;French support played a pivotal role in securing American independence from British rule. Motivated by a desire to weaken their longtime rival, Britain, and inspired by the ideals of liberty espoused by the American cause, France provided critical military assistance, financial aid, and naval support to the Continental Army under General George Washington. The success of the American Revolution inspired the&nbsp;French Revolution&nbsp;by demonstrating the possibility of overthrowing monarchy and establishing democratic governance based on principles of liberty, equality, and popular sovereignty. This captivating musical program takes you on a historical journey, exploring the revolutionary spirit, the struggles of the people, and the transformation of an entire nation. Through a carefully curated selection of music&nbsp;by composers who adapted their lives and music to align with revolutionary ideals and sentiments, witness the emotional intensity and the ideological fervor that defined this pivotal period in history. Sonata in G Major for violoncello &amp; continuo&nbsp;Jean-Baptiste Bréval Sonata in G minor for violin &amp; piano, op. 1b no 3&nbsp;Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de St. Georges Piano Trio no. 27 in F.&nbsp;Ignaz Pleyel Piano Trio in B-flat major, K. 502 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Renee Hemsing, Violin Guy Fishman, Cello Ian Watson, Keyboard Reception to follow. Limited Seating This event is generously supported by the&nbsp;Society of the Cincinnati,&nbsp;America's oldest patriotic organization.

Shirley Eustis House

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

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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

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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

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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

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S28: calendar experiences

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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Experiences

"A Christmas Carol" at the Omni Parker House

"A Christmas Carol" at the Omni Parker House

"A Christmas Carol" at the Omni Parker House

A Revolutionary Concert: Paul Revere, the Man, the Myth, the Music

The Old Howard Theater: From Virtuoso to Vaudeville and Vice

Redcoats & Rebels: A Musical Duel Across the Atlantic

"Now is the Hour" A Tribute to Buddy Clark

Harmonies of Majesty: Music from the Court of King George III

From Cedars to Sands: Music of the Aegean and the Levant

Harmonies of the Aegean and the Levant

Let the Children Sing: A Tribute to William Cooper Nell

"A Christmas Carol" at the Omni Parker House

"A Christmas Carol" at the Omni Parker House

Whispers from the Veil: A Victorian Séance Experience

Echoes of Liberté: Music from the French Revolution