Film Screening: Top Ten Must (2024)

Join us for our January film screening! Arna, a disillusioned artist, sets out to complete a list of ten things before she dies. Mjöll, a desperate mother, escapes prison to reunite with her daughter. When their paths collide at a gas station, an unexpected journey across Iceland begins in this entertaining blend of drama and comedy.

Scandinavian Cultural Center

Winter Warm Up with Abundance Sauna

Abundance Sauna will be at the Scandinavian Cultural Center on&nbsp;Friday, Saturday and Sunday, January 16th-18th 2026.&nbsp;Join us for a traditional, wood fired sauna experience! Daring souls are invited to experience the thrill of thermal extremes with a dip in the cold plunge tank, or snow angels, if Mother Nature and Ol’ Man Winter cooperate.&nbsp;Afterwards, relax around the fire pit to share stories of sauna adventure while enjoying tasty snacks. Sauna Mestari will be on site to provide a full orientation to all participants.&nbsp;Participants provide their own towels,&nbsp;swimsuits and hydration. <a href="https://event.gotsauna.com/scc-sauna1-2026">Preregistration</a>&nbsp;is required. A&nbsp;welcome/orientation packet&nbsp;which includes a liability waiver which must be signed by each participant. For specific sauna questions, email Mark@Gotsauna.com

Screening: The Painter and the Thief (2020)

Join us for a documentary screening! This documentary follows artist Barbora Kysilkova as she tracks down the man who stole two of her paintings from a gallery in Oslo. Instead of confrontation, she forms an unlikely bond with the thief, Karl-Bertil Nordland. The film documents their evolving relationship over several years, offering rare access to both of their lives.

Screening: Let the River Flow (2023)

Join us for our February film screening! A young teacher, Ester, hides her Sami identity to avoid being exposed to racism. After finding herself drawn to demonstrations against a big dam development in Alta, a personal journey out of the shame she has carried for so long begins.

Finlandia Foundation Boston Presents: National Sauna Week 2026

Abundance Sauna will be celebrating National Sauna Week at the Scandinavian Cultural Center, Friday through Sunday February 20-22, 2026. There are many sessions available each day, starting as early as 10:00am. Choose between 60 minute and 90-minute sessions. The session cost is the same regardless of the number of people in your party. The sauna comfortably accommodates 3 people at once. Ten minutes of each session is allotted for turnover. You are welcome to book available consecutive sessions for a longer sauna experience. Daring souls are invited to experience the thrill of thermal extremes with a dip in the cold plunge tank or, if Mother Nature supports us… some snow angels. Afterwards, relax around the fire pit to share stories of sauna adventure while enjoying tasty snacks. Sauna Mestari will be on site to provide full orientations to all participants.  <a href="https://event.gotsauna.com/ffnsaunaweek-2026">Preregistration</a> is required. A welcome/orientation packet will be sent, and a liability waiver must be signed by each participant. Each participant must provide their own towels, swimsuits and hydration. If you have sauna specific questions, email <a href="mailto:Mark@gotsauna.com">Mark@gotsauna.com</a>

St. Urho Day Sauna

Abundance Sauna will be at The Scandinavian Cultural Center&nbsp;—&nbsp;Saturday and Sunday, March 14 &amp; 15, 2026. St. Urho is an unusual character. We celebrate and remember him every year&nbsp;on March 16th. As legends have it, the saint chased the grasshoppers out of Finland shouting at them, “Grasshoppers, Grasshoppers, Go to Hell!” But why did he want grasshoppers to disappear from Finland? This was so the wine vineyards could be saved from destruction. He also wanted to save the grapes and the worker’s jobs, all while feeding on only sour milk and fish soup. Thanks to his noble deeds, he became a hero. There are many sessions available each day, starting as early as 10:00am. The session cost is the same regardless of the number of people in your party. The sauna comfortably accommodates 3 people at once. Ten minutes of each session is allotted for turnover. You are welcome to book available consecutive sessions for a longer sauna experience. Daring souls are invited to experience the thrill of thermal extremes with a dip in the cold plunge tank, or snow angels, if Mother Nature and Ol’ Man Winter are still in cahoots. Afterwards relax around the fire pit to share stories of sauna adventure while enjoying tasty snacks. Sauna Mestari will be on site to provide a full orientation to all participants. <a href="https://event.gotsauna.com/scc-sauna3-2026">Preregistration</a>&nbsp;is required. A&nbsp;welcome/orientation packet&nbsp;which includes a liability waiver which must be signed by each participant.&nbsp;Participants provide their own towels, swimsuits and hydration. If you have specific questions about this event, email Mark@Gotsauna.com

A WWII Tale Brought to Life with Bob Ellertsen

A WWII Tale Brought to Life with Bob Ellertsen Back by popular demand… 📖 We’re thrilled to welcome back&nbsp;Bob Ellertsen, who returns to share stories from a powerful book he translated from Norwegian to English:&nbsp;Farsund’s Occupation History&nbsp;by Johannes Seland. Get ready to dive into the gripping true story of life in the Norwegian seaport town of&nbsp;Farsund&nbsp;and the nearby farms of&nbsp;Lista&nbsp;during the&nbsp;German occupation of Norway (1940–1945). Seland, the book’s author, wasn’t just a witness—he was an active member of the&nbsp;Norwegian resistance, making this account both deeply personal and historically rich. Come hear about bravery, resilience, and the fight for freedom—told through the lens of a small coastal town with a big story to tell. Saturday Sept. 20th| 1pm |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/book-talk-farsund-tickets-1417340797479?aff=oddtdtcreator">Free with registration</a>

Scandinavian Cultural Center & Library

Crossroads: Råberg, Johnson & Stenmark

Join us for a rich and resonant afternoon of music featuring three extraordinary artists— Bruno Råberg on bass, Oskar Stenmark on flugelhorn, and Timothy Johnson on guitar. Each brings their own voice and story to the stage, weaving together jazz, Nordic influences, and deep musical chemistry.

Romance from the North: A Piano Concert with Rui Gong

Join us and experience the talent of piano prodigy Rui Gong! At only eleven years old, Rui has an exceptional aptitude for the piano, studying the instrument since the age of six.&nbsp;His ability flourished at the Li Fang Piano studio, where he would go on to win multiple international awards in the span of three years.&nbsp;Starting in 2024, Rui began working with Dr. Paul-André Bempéchat, and only continued to expand his skill set.&nbsp;He has explored complex works in Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Chopin. In this program, Rui will be representing the five Scandinavian countries with pieces from their most revered composers, respectively. Dr. Bempéchat will be introducing their historical backgrounds and impact on the history of music.

Midsummer at the SCC&L

At this unique celebration, adults and children come together to picnic in the grass, make flower crowns, and dance to authentic Swedish music around the maypole. A special live Performance by Merulae. Admission includes a boxed lunch from the Kaffestugan that you can enjoy on the lawn. Saturday, June 21st | 11am-2pm | <a href="https://scandicenter.kindful.com/e/swedish-midsummer-2025">$15-$30 tickets here (advanced purchase required)</a> The songs and flower crown station are sponsored by <a href="https://boston.swea.org/">SWEA Boston</a>

Screening: Odd Fish 

Presented as June’s Library film choice:&nbsp;Odd Fish (Ljósvíkingar) Odd Fish&nbsp;(Icelandic: Ljósvíkingar) is a 2023&nbsp;Icelandic&nbsp;drama film directed and written by&nbsp;Snævar Sölvi Sölvason. When two childhood friends get an unexpected opportunity to keep their fish restaurant open all year round, one of them comes out of the closet as a trans woman, putting a strain on their friendship and they see their lives in a new light. Saturday June 14th | 1pm | $10; $5 for members |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/screening-odd-fish-2024-tickets-1120969502959?aff=oddtdtcreator">Tickets</a> In Icelandic with English subtitles | Drama | 104 min.

Efterskole i Danmark? A Year in Denmark?

Ranum Efterskole College is a Danish Efterskole with an international programme adapted to expat families or foreign students who would like to take 9th-10th grade in Denmark. We have a unique programme for Danish and cross-cultural young people who want to improve their Danish. At Ranum Efterskole College it is possible to take the general 9th and 10th grade, but also the international Cambridge IGSCE programme. You can also choose from more than 50 different profile subjects, cultural subjects, and electives, as well as four trips with 28 travel days. We have students from more than 28 different countries, which means that both&nbsp;Danish&nbsp;and English are our working languages. This makes it possible for everyone to be part of the school community and at the same time develop their&nbsp;Danish&nbsp;language skills. Over the years, we have gained a lot of experience with American students and have been successful in getting their Efterskole year approved when they return to the American school system and when applying to retain their Danish citizenship. Meet Matthew Danaher from Ranum Efterskole for the opportunity for students and parents to meet and ask questions. Sunday, May 18th | 12pm Matthew Danaher is in Boston to meet those interested in Ranum Efterskole and about attending an Efterskole in Denmark in general. ANY QUESTIONS ARE WELCOME – JUST WRITE TO&nbsp;MD@RANUMEFTERSKOLE.DK. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU IN BOSTON!

Syttende Mai Celebration 2025

Syttende Mai Celebration 2025 17. MAI CELEBRATION sponsored by <a href="http://norumbegasofn.org/">Norumbega Lodge #3-506, Sons of Norway</a> Saturday, May 17th 17. mai family picnic Scandinavian Cultural Center – 206 Waltham Street – West Newton, MA 02465 Schedule of Events 12:30pm – Gather for 17. mai parade at the entrance to the SCC 12:45 pm – Step-off time for the parade 1pm – Welcome and tale for dagen 1:30pm – Lunch 2:15pm – Games for the children Music by UUSF Protest Band Tickets for lunch will be sold as people arrive. Adults: $15&nbsp;(smørbrød, beverage, and dessert) Children: $5&nbsp;(pølser m/lompe, beverage, and dessert) (Additional smørbrød may be purchased for $10 each.)

Screening: Gold Run 

Presented as the Library’s May film choice:&nbsp;Gold Run (2022) April 9, 1940. The German war machine occupies Norway. One of their primary objectives is to seize the nation’s entire gold reserves. But thanks to a few courageous individuals, the gold is smuggled out – just as the Germans come.​​ Based on true events, ​​Gold Run tells the story of how 55 tons of gold was transported through rough winter landscapes on trucks, trains and boats​ by a group of unlikely resistance fighters ahead of the invading Nazi forces. Saturday, May 10th | 1pm | $10; $5 for members |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/screening-gold-run-2022-tickets-1110720778749?aff=oddtdtcreator">Tickets</a> In Norwegian with English subtitles | Drama, War, Thriller | 114 minutes

Book Talk: Farsund

Talk with Robert Ellertsen on Farsund’s Occupation History Sons of Norway, Norumbega Lodge presents a talk with Robert Ellertsen. &nbsp; Bob Ellertsen will talk about a book he translated from Norwegian to English, titled&nbsp;Farsund’s Occupation History.&nbsp;The book was written by a Norwegian man named Johannes Seland.&nbsp;The book chronicles was like for the people of the Norwegian seaport town of Farsund and the nearby farming community of Lista during the occupation of Norway by Germany in World War II from 1940-1945.&nbsp;The author Johannes Seland was deeply involved in the resistance to the occupation.&nbsp;&nbsp; This will be presented as part of a Sons of Norway cultural meeting | free admission | 7:30

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.

scandicenter

Experiences