Revolutionary Harbor Lectures: Boston Harbor and the Battle of Bunker Hill

This program is presented by the National Park Service and Boston Harbor Now as a part of our three-part Revolutionary Harbor lecture series. This lecture is the first of the series. In the aftermath of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, Bunker Hill’s strategic location along on a small peninsula of land at the convergence of the Charles River, the Mystic River, and Boston Harbor, and its proximity to Boston, drew the attention of the British forces who occupied Boston. As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill, we invite you to join National Park Service ranger Savannah Rose as she explores how Boston Harbor helped to shape the Battle of Bunker Hill. 6:00PM: Arrival &amp; refreshments 6:15PM: Lecture begins 7:15PM: Q&amp;A 7:30PM: Program ends When February 27, 2025 Where Atlantic Wharf (Fort Point Room) 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 ****$12 Parking after 6PM****

Atlantic Wharf

Revelry and Revolution: An Evacuation Day Harbor Cruise

The Evacuation Day Cruise is a two-hour excursion through the Boston Harbor that tells the story of the Siege of Boston (June 1775 to March 1776). Park rangers will provide historical narration of events as we pass key landmarks, all while navigating the waters the British used to evacuate town. The trip will begin at Long Wharf, cruise by the Charlestown Navy Yard with the view of the Bunker Hill Monument, pass Fort Independence (Fortress William in 1776) with a view of the Dorchester Heights, and cruise by several harbor islands including Little Brewster, home of Boston Light. Swinging around Little Brewster, we will head back to Boston with entertainment by the duo Tobias Tripp and Prudence Merriweather for a 3:00pm return to Long Wharf. On this cruise you will enjoy:<ul><li>Narration by local historians</li><li>Boston Harbor Islands park staff available for questions</li><li>Period music and merriment aboard the cruise</li><li>Views of Boston Light, America's oldest light station</li><li>Lunch, full bar and other refreshments available for purchase onboard</li></ul>This event is a part of Rev250 - Unfinished: America at 250 The American Revolution remains unfinished. Early revolutionaries engaged in deep debates about how voices are heard and what liberty looks like. While the founding generation set forth one set of answers to these questions, they did not resolve the debates. Every subsequent generation has continued to grapple with these fundamental questions. Now it's our turn. Unfinished: America at 250 is a partnership of historical and cultural institutions, National Park Service sites, historians, and changemakers. This partnership harnesses the stories of the past and activates historic spaces to provoke community conversations about the ongoing American Revolution.

Long Wharf North

Moakley Park Clean Up

Join Boston Harbor Now and the Boston Parks and Recreation Department at Moakley Park to give back to your community and enjoy the beauty of the city’s biggest waterfront park! The event will run rain or shine; however, it may be canceled due to severe weather conditions. When cleanups are: Cleanups occur on the second or third Saturdays of the month from March through October. What is provided: All necessary tools, including gloves, pickers, bags, sharp containers, and safety instructions + BREAKFAST. What to expect: A volunteer session is 2 hours long, beginning at 9:30am and will require picking up litter and natural debris. We’ll give you everything you need to keep you safe. Just bring a positive attitude as you help make a difference in this City of Boston Park. What to bring: Any snacks or water that you want! Make sure you wear work clothes and close-toed shoes (that you don’t mind getting wet or dirty). Don’t forget that depending on the weather, you may want to bring a hat, sunscreen, raincoat, or jacket. Directions: Please meet in the park near the picnic tables by the basketball courts near Saunders Stadium (see image below). *Note*: If the event of your choice is full but you are interested in participating in future Moakley Park Cleanups, please contact <a href="mailto:volunteers@bostonharbornow.org">volunteers@bostonharbornow.org</a>.

Moakley Park

Free Ice Skating Party at Steriti Memorial Rink! at Highland Street Winter Camp

Calling one and all for a *free* day of ice skating, music, and fun at DCR's Steriti Memorial Rink in Boston's historic North End! Join us from 12:00 - 4:00 pm for free skating and snacks! <ul><li>Ice Skating: Choose from sessions lasting 45 minutes each starting at 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:00pm and 3:00 pm. Rental skates will be provided for free!</li><li>Music: Skate and dance along with music by <a href="https://whysham.com/">DJ WhySham</a> </li><li>Food: Enjoy Regina Pizzeria, Munchkin Donut Holes, and drinks when not on the rink (while supplies last).</li><li>Fun &amp; Games: Need a break from skating or waiting for your turn? More fun will be provided rink side.</li></ul>Don't forget to bring a waterbottle! Pre-registration is *highly* encouraged for groups of 10+ or if you have a time constraint, but there will be capacity for walk-ups during all skating sessions. This program is made possible by generous support from the <a href="https://www.highlandstreet.org/">Highland Street Foundation</a> as part of their 2025 <a href="https://www.highlandstreet.org/programs/community-events/winter-camp">Winter Camp </a>offerings. Thank you to our hosts, the Massachusetts Department Conservation &amp; Recreation and Families Facing Addiction, Inc.

Steriti Memorial Rink

Winter Wander on Peddocks Island

Celebrate the season with a special winter excursion to Peddocks Island! Experience an unforgettable winter day as you wander the trails of Peddocks Island in search of winter tracks and traces. Learn about the history and natural wonder of the island on a guided walk, play in the snow (if the weather cooperates), and enjoy hot beverages as you explore! Visitors are in encouraged to bring their own snowshoes, lunches, binoculars, and camera to enhance the day. Dress in warm layers for a day outdoors – wool socks and boots encouraged. Your ticket includes:<ul><li>Roundtrip ferry ride to &amp; from Peddocks Island from Boston</li><li>Guided and self-guided exploration of island’s history and natural resources</li><li>Kid-friendly Junior Ranger activities</li><li>Hot beverages &amp; a snack</li></ul>Ferry Schedule: The ferry will depart <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/UjsC2K11BTWDfnDx5">Long Wharf South – Gate 3</a> promptly at 11:00am. Please arrive no later than 10:30am for boarding.<ul><li>10:30am – Arrive for boarding</li><li>11:00am – Ferry departs Long Wharf</li><li>11:45am – Estimated arrival to Peddocks Island</li><li>2:15pm – Departure boarding begins</li><li>2:30pm – Return ferry to Boston departs Peddocks Island</li><li>3:15pm – Return to Long Wharf (time may vary)</li></ul>Important weather note This program will be held rain or shine, unless weather is inclement or severe enough to threaten visitor safety. In case of postponement, Winter Wander will take place on Saturday March 1st, 2025, operating on the same schedule. We encourage all visitors to watch the weather closely, plan ahead to come prepared for potentially rainy or windy conditions, and try to be available for both dates.

Peddocks Island

Winter Warmer at Moakley Park

Celebrate community at Moakley Park with a free, fun afternoon complete with warm drinks, yummy snacks, games, crafts, and more: <ul><li>Enjoy s'mores, popcorn, and hot cocoa</li><li>Make Valentines for community elders</li><li>Visit the book table and find a new friend to take home</li><li>Share your favorite Moakley memories &amp; chat with friends around a fire</li></ul>Boston Harbor Now is excited to partner with <a href="https://www.boston.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation">Boston Parks and Recreation</a> and <a href="https://www.sbeaccion.org/">South Boston en Acción</a> to help Make Moakley Yours! Getting there: It is easiest to take the Red Line to the <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/Hnj1PiQhmFj13BNc6">JFK/UMass</a> stop and walk to the <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/7Ed691YjEYPTgBhBA">Field House</a> (7 minutes). Free street parking is also available, but please pay close attention to the signs.

Moakley Park - Basketball Courts

Revolutionary Harbor: Honeybees and the Impacts of Colonialism on Insects

Learn about the key role insects play in our ecosystems and how the legacy of colonialism threatens their survival. This program is presented by the National Park Service and Boston Harbor Now as a part of our three-part Revolutionary Harbor lecture series. <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/revolutionary-harbor-honeybees-and-the-impacts-of-colonialism-on-insects-tickets-1096449292349?aff=oddtdtcreator">Registration</a> required. What Revolutionary Harbor: Honeybees and the Impacts of Colonialism on Insects 6:00PM: Refreshments served 6:30PM: Lecture begins 7:15PM: Q&amp;A begins 7:30PM: Program ends When January 23, 2025 Where Atlantic Wharf (Fort Point Room) 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 About the Lecture Nature conservation and climate change are two of the most pressing conversations happening around the Boston Harbor Islands and Massachusetts at large. Insects are at the foundation of our natural ecosystems, and yet they rarely take center stage during these conversations. Colonialism disrupts ecosystems and shapes our relationship to the natural world. In this lecture, we will explore this topic through the lens of honeybees, while also learning about our lesser known native bees.

Atlantic Wharf (Fort Point Room)

Winter Wildlife Cruise

Join National Park Rangers and local naturalists to discover how alive the harbor is in the winter! Learn about and observe the animals who make their wintertime home in the Boston Harbor on this year’s <a href="https://www.cityexperiences.com/boston/city-cruises/winter-wildlife-cruise/">Winter Wildlife Cruise</a>! Grab your camera, binoculars, and hop aboard the ferry with local naturalists on this curated 3-hour cruise. Naturalists include representatives from the National Park Service and more! The adventure begins at Long Wharf, just steps from the New England Aquarium, the North End, Faneuil Hall and other popular Boston landmarks. BOARDING: 9:30am DEPARTURE: 10:00am *Ferry departs promptly at 10am. Late boarding is not permitted.* What to expect<ul><li>Professional, knowledgeable naturalists on board</li><li>Outdoor viewing decks and indoor spaces with large windows</li><li>Ample indoor seating</li><li>Light snacks &amp; refreshments available for purchase</li><li>High-speed heated ferry</li></ul>Important weather note: This program will be held rain or shine, unless weather is inclement or severe enough to threaten visitor safety. We encourage all visitors to watch the weather closely, plan ahead to come prepared for potentially rainy or windy conditions. In case of postponement, the Winter Wildlife cruise will take place on Saturday January 25, 2025, operating on the same schedule.

Long Wharf

Waterfront Ice Sculpture Stroll

The signature Waterfront Ice Sculpture Stroll is back! Get ready to count down to 2025 with more than 30 ice sculptures hosted by businesses and cultural sites across the waterfront – the largest Stroll EVER! 2024/2025 Ice Sculpture Hosts:<ul><li><a href="http://tamcc.org/">The American City Coalition</a></li><li><a href="https://www.cityexperiences.com/boston/city-cruises/">Boston Harbor City Cruises</a></li><li><a href="https://www.bostonharbornow.org/">Boston Harbor Now</a></li><li><a href="https://www.bxp.com/properties/atlantic-wharf">BXP, Atlantic Wharf</a></li><li><a href="https://www.chiofaro.com/">The Chiofaro Company</a></li><li><a href="https://www.clippershipwharf.com/">Clippership Apartments on the Wharf </a></li><li><a href="https://www.theenvoyhotel.com/">The Envoy Hotel </a></li><li><a href="http://www.fanpierboston.com/">Fan Pier Owners Corporation</a> (FPOC)</li><li><a href="https://faneuilhallmarketplace.com/">Faneuil Hall Marketplace</a></li><li><a href="https://www.foccp.org/">Friends of Christopher Columbus Park</a> (FOCCP)</li><li><a href="https://martinsparkboston.org/">Friends of Martin’s Park</a></li><li><a href="https://www.jamestownlp.com/properties/constitution-wharf#">Jamestown</a></li><li><a href="https://www.massport.com/">Massachusetts Port Authority</a> (Massport)</li><li><a href="https://www.meetboston.com/">Meet Boston</a></li><li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/national-parks-of-boston.htm">The National Park Service</a></li><li><a href="https://www.neaq.org/">New England Aquarium</a></li><li><a href="https://www.pembroke.com/">Pembroke</a></li><li><a href="https://www.commonwealth-partners.com/properties/pier-4/">Pier 4 Common Area Property Owners Association</a></li><li><a href="https://www.rosekennedygreenway.org/">Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy</a></li><li><a href="https://www.samadamsbostontaproom.com/">Sam Adams Downtown Boston Taproom</a></li><li><a href="https://www.bostonseaport.xyz/">Seaport by WS</a></li><li><a href="https://atsuffolkdowns.com/">Suffolk Downs</a></li><li><a href="https://www.yotel.com/en/hotels/yotel-boston">Yotel Boston</a></li></ul>

Boston Harborwalk & Waterfront

Merry Moakley

Join us Thursday, December 12th from 3:30-5:30pm for this year’s Merry Moakley. It will be a family-friendly evening of festive fun with pizza, music, hot cocoa, crafts, free books, photos, games, and more. <ul><li>Thursday December 12 || Jueves 12 de diciembre || 3:30 – 5:30pm</li><li>The Ollie Preschool Parking Lot – 1187 Columbia Road</li><li>Crafts, hot cocoa, music, pizza, photos &amp; more || Manualidades, cocoa, música, pizza, fotos y más</li></ul>Boston Harbor Now is proud to cohost this event with the City of Boston Parks and Recreation, South Boston Neighborhood House, South Boston en Accion, Boston Family Engagement Network, the Volo Kids Foundation, and Volo.

South Boston Neighborhood Preschool

Veterans Cruise

Enjoy a cruise to Peddocks Island, followed by guided tours of historic Fort Andrews, reflections on service, and fun self-guided activities for all ages. Light snacks and warm beverages will also be provided, but we encourage visitors to plan accordingly by either bringing lunch from home or purchasing food aboard the ferry. Ferry Information &amp; Directions: The ferry departs Long Wharf at 11:00am (arrive no later than 10:30am). Gate information will be provided via email at least 1 day before the event.<ul><li>Taking public transportation or biking is highly recommended. The closest T stations to Long Wharf are Aquarium on the Blue Line, State Street on the Orange Line, and Haymarket on the Green Line.</li><li>Recommended parking locations include the <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/Go9oN3UeTBG597Zg7">Garage at Post Office Square</a> and <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/8JMU4aE9nVeDB6Lz5">Atlantic Wharf Parking</a>. Each are about a 10-minute walk to Long Wharf, so be sure to build in walking time to ensure you are not late for boarding and departure.</li></ul>Ticket Pricing:<ul><li>Veterans &amp; Active Military: Free</li><li>Friends, family &amp; general public: $5</li><li>Children 4-12 years: FREE</li><li>Children 3 years and under: FREE</li></ul>Schedule:<ul><li>11:00am - Ferry departs Long Wharf</li><li>11:45am - Estimated arrival to Peddocks Island</li><li>2:15pm - Return ferry departs Peddock Island</li><li>3 :00pm - Estimated return to Long Wharf</li></ul>If cost is a barrier to your participation, please contact <a href="mailto:access@bostonharbornow.org">access@bostonharbornow.org</a> Important weather note: This program will be held rain or shine, unless weather is inclement or severe enough to threaten visitor safety. In case of postponement, the Veterans Cruise will take place on Sunday November 10, 2024, operating on the same schedule. We encourage all visitors to watch the weather closely, plan ahead to come prepared for potentially rainy or windy conditions, and try to be available for both dates.

Autumn Adventure on Peddocks Island

Experience an unforgettable autumn day as you explore Peddocks Island and learn about the history or natural wonder of Peddocks on a guided tour, press your own cider, or gather around a bonfire for a ghost story. What to expect:<ul><li>Ferry ride to &amp; from Peddocks Island from downtown Boston</li><li>Orienteering</li><li>Ranger Tour</li><li>Self-guided exploration of the island</li><li>Bonfire &amp; ghost stories</li><li>"Creepy Crawlies" nature walk</li><li>Fall birding</li><li>Autumn arts and crafts</li><li>Apple cider &amp; donuts</li></ul>Visitors are encouraged to bring their binoculars and to dress in layers for a day outdoors. Bring your own lunch, as there is&nbsp;no&nbsp;food service on Peddocks Island. Other important information:<ul><li>Peddocks Island is "pack in, pack out" park. Please arrange to bring everything you arrived with back off of the island with you, including trash.</li><li>No pets allowed.</li><li>Bring your own picnic meal.</li><li>Alcohol is strictly prohibited.</li></ul>This program is presented by the National Park Service, the Department of Conservation and Recreation, and Boston Harbor Now, in partnership with Boston Harbor City Cruises. This is a rain or shine event. No refunds given after October 12th. Any refunds are subject to Eventbrite cancelation fees. If the Park cancels for unsafe conditions, all tickets will be fully refunded.

$5 Ferry Weekend

Visit Spectacle Island for just $5 in celebration of the Boston Harbor Islands National &amp; State Park 2024 season! Help us close out the 2024 season right by visiting Spectacle Island for just $5 on Saturday, October 12; Sunday, October 13; or Monday, October 14! Tickets are now available online to reserve and purchase. Tickets purchased in-person are first come, first serve, so we recommend purchasing in advance. Directions &amp; Ferry Schedule: Guests should arrive at <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/QpGLvreyquY6CqgF9">Long Wharf North</a> (Gate 5) *at least 30 minutes early* to board and depart for Georges Island. Ferries will depart promptly at their scheduled times and will not wait for late visitors.<ul><li>Boston to Spectacle Island: 10:30AM or 12:30PM</li><li>Spectacle Island to Boston: 1:30PM or 3:30PM</li></ul>It is highly recommended to utilize public transportation (Aquarium Station on the Blue Line T), bikes, or ride share services, or to carpool as parking near Long Wharf is limited and can be expensive. Some recommended parking locations nearby are <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/ifMiMQ7TL5X6UJRF9">Post Office Square Garage</a> ($9 – 10 minute walk) and <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/qmYMKtuJgA8D383h6">Atlantic Wharf Parking</a> ($12 – 12 minute walk).

Spectacle Island

Soulful Bliss Arts & Music Festival

Join Boston Harbor Now and AfroDesiaCity for a cruise and relaxing evening on Spectacle Island, curated by and for communities of color. Enjoy games, food &amp; drinks, and live music! Tickets include:<ul><li>A round trip ferry ride to Spectacle Island</li><li>Arts and live musical performances</li><li>Breathtaking sunset views of the Boston skyline</li><li>After-hours access to the Island</li><li>Food for purchase from <a href="https://www.zazrestaurant.com/">ZaZ Restaurant</a> </li></ul>

Spectacular Pollinators on Spectacle Island

Did you know that ~80% of all plant life relies on insects and other animals for pollination? This is why pollinators are considered keystone species: because life as we know it would be impossible without them. Pollinators are at the very foundation of our ecosystems, and with all they've done for us, they deserve some recognition! So give pollinators their flowers and join us on Spectacle Island this labor day weekend for a pollinator event to close out the summer! Your ticket includes:<ul><li>Boat transportation to and from the islands</li><li>Guided Pollinator Safaris on the hour</li><li>"Meet our moths" porch talks w/ Teá Montagna</li><li>Ask a Master Gardener*</li><li>Intro to iNaturalist</li><li>Pollinator arts and crafts</li><li>Native seed giveaways</li><li>Hike with a Ranger</li><li>BYOP (Bring Your Own Picnic)</li><li>...and more!</li></ul>Come learn about and observe pollinators while you explore <a href="https://www.bostonharborislands.org/spectacle-island/">Spectacle island</a>, take a dip in the harbor, and enjoy everything else that Spectacle Island has to offer!

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

Discover kid-friendly fun in Boston, Massachusetts, and surrounding areas! Enjoy hands-on exhibits at the Boston Children’s Museum, explore the New England Aquarium, and visit the Franklin Park Zoo. Find parks, playgrounds, and seasonal events perfect for families across Massachusetts.

Top 20 kid-friendly things to do in Boston, MA

Kid-friendly things to do in Boston

Kid-friendly events

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.