Tavern Talk: Snowbound: The Blizzard of '78

Dan Breen's Tavern Talk revisits the Blizzard of '78, the storm that buried Boston and became New England's winter benchmark for all storms. Now that we have survived the Blizzard of '26, it might be a good time to recall the devastating Blizzard of '78, which dumped a then-record 27 inches of snow in greater Boston, and an incredible 40 inches in parts of the South Shore. Much of the region was paralyzed for the better part of a week. In this presentation, we will tell the story of the blizzard that remains, for anyone who lived through it, the measuring stick for all subsequent winter storms.

Aeronaut Brewing Company

ECHOES IN INK: Found Poetry from the Collection

Join the Somerville Museum for a hands-on creative workshop where historic letters, newspapers, maps, and documents become the raw material Create poetry from the past. Join the Somerville Museum for a hands-on creative workshop where historic letters, newspapers, maps, and documents become the raw material for art. Using reproduced archival texts, participants will craft found and blackout poetry, revealing hidden voices, emotions, and stories already embedded in the words of earlier generations. Inspired by our popular Collage from the Collection program, this workshop invites you to cut, mark, highlight, and transform history into powerful visual poems. No poetry experience needed All materials provided Take home your finished poetic artwork

Somerville Museum

Mapping Your Neighborhood Family Program

Create your own neighborhood map!<ul><li>Go on a mini walking tour of the Museum’s neighborhood</li><li>Make a communal map of the neighborhood based on what you remember</li><li>Cut out different types of Somerville homes and buildings, and design a map of your neighborhood!</li><li></li><li>Wear comfy shoes. Perfect for Pre-K - 2</li></ul>

Collage from the Collection

Dig through images of old Somerville, art magazines, books, and programs from our collection and reinvent them in a collage! Take home a piece of the museum when you create a collage from our collections! Join us for this special Friday add-on event. There will be one limited time slot for you to craft for an hour and a half: 5:30-7:30 pm. Limited seats available, so bring a friend or meet someone new! Recommended for teens and up; younger children can participate with an adult to use scissors.

Good Neighbor Open House and Bagel Brunch

Come for the Coffee, Stay for the Community! Start your Sunday morning with neighbors, coffee, bagels, and a behind-the-scenes look at all the ways you can connect with the Somerville Museum community!*<ul><li>Meet neighbors, volunteers, and museum supporters.</li><li>Learn about our exhibits and programs.</li><li>Explore volunteer opportunities, membership, and more.</li><li>Take the next step to get involved—and take home a Your Neighbor is a Museum T-shirt!</li><li>Join the Good Neighbor Monthly Giving Program and be entered to win a cooking lesson from the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts!</li></ul>

Your Home Is A Museum

An object storytelling event. Bring an object. Curate a mini exhibition. Tell its story. Your home is full of treasures! In Your Home Is a Museum, participants are invited to bring a meaningful object from home - something you were given, something you found in the floorboards or the backyard, something you inherited, or something that has always been important to you for whatever reason— an object with a full-bodied 5-10 minute story. We’ll create a display together from all the objects and then listen to each other's stories. Think the “Moth” radio hour or “Antiques Road Show.” Explore how personal stories become part of shared history. No museum experience required—just curiosity and a story to tell.

Crafting Care: A Community Quilt Workshop with Lauren Leone

This participatory workshop invites attendees to reflect on the concept and practice of care through embroidery and fabric collage, in dialo This participatory workshop invites attendees to reflect on the concept and practice of care through embroidery and fabric collage, in dialogue with the Crafting the Mind exhibition. We'll explore questions like "how do we give and receive care– in the day-to-day and also in moments of crisis and distress?", "how do we create communities of care?", and "how can community craft practices support belonging, wellbeing, and interdependence?" Participants will be taught some simple embroidery stitches and will be supported in creating individual quilt squares reflecting their personal understanding of care. We'll have time to share our quilt squares with each other and create a temporary, ephemeral community quilt, assembled and shared at the close of the workshop before each participant departs with their work. No prior art experience required; all materials provided.  Facilitator: Lauren Leone (she/her) is an art therapist and textile artist who uses embroidery and other craft practices in community-based projects to promote belonging, individual and community healing, and collective liberation. Her research interests include the unique therapeutic benefits of craft materials and media and socially engaged craft practices and she's the editor of Craft in Art Therapy: Diverse Approaches to the Transformative Power of Craft Materials and Methods. Her personal art practice focuses on identity, connection, and communication, and often relates to her experience living with chronic illness.  Access info: The Somerville Museum is handicapped accessible and has an ADA entrance on the ground level at 1 Westwood Road. It also has ADA-compliant, gender-neutral restrooms.  Please call us at 617-666-9810 or email <a href="mailto:info@somervillemuseum.org">info@somervillemuseum.org</a> for more information about accessibility.  * Please note: In the spirit of community care, masking is requested for this event and we'll have some on hand. Lauren's work frequently addresses chronic illness and disability and she is invested in creating safer, more inclusive spaces for art-making and community gatherings.

Valentine's Day Mixer

Bring a friend, a date, a group, or just bring yourself to our Valentine's Day Mixer! Bring a special someone, a friend, or treat yourself to a pre-Valentine evening at the Museum with live Latin music from CuraSón, promoting love and connection by playing original music that comes from the heart. Enjoy mocktails, a chocolate tasting, sweet and savory snacks, and a free digital portrait while exploring our galleries featuring our current exhibit: Crafting the Mind. Sip and chat, dance and laugh, or sit and craft at the weaving table while meeting new people.

Tavern Talk: Henry Knox and his Noble Train of Artillery: A 2-Part Series

Somerville Museum presents a 2-part Tavern Talk with Dan Breen on January 26th and February 9th,7-8pm at Aeronaut Brewing in Somerville. Experience the Tavern Tradition -- history shared out loud among neighbors. Part 1 (1/26):&nbsp;Ethan Allen, Benedict Arnold and the Gibraltar of North America" Part 2 (2/9):&nbsp;"The Noble Train Arrives: Knox, Washington and the End of the Siege." As we continue to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Revolution, it is time to celebrate the achievements of Henry Knox, the 25-year old Boston bookseller who, against considerable odds, somehow oversaw the transport of 59 pieces of artillery from Fort Ticonderoga across the Hudson, over the Berkshires and across the length of Massachusetts to the American army camped outside of Boston. But how did those cannon become available in the first place? In the first installment of a two-part series, we will tell the story of Ticonderoga and its improbable capture, followed by the arrival of Knox six months later. Then we will begin the epic tale of the journey of the Noble Train, following it down the 'Queen of American Lakes'" towards "the River that Flows Both Ways." In the second part of our commemoration of Knox and the Noble Train, we will follow the Ticonderoga cannon over the Berkshires, across the Connecticut River and finally to Dorchester Heights, where their emplacement would finally drive Lord Howe to abandon Boston. The siege was finally over. Join us as we celebrate that 'Noble Train' of artillery that gave Americans their first major victory of the Revolution. "Dan Breen's descriptions are so vivid, you can feel the wind on your face!"

Aeronaut Brewing

Archivist Terry Bragg on the Founding and History of McLean

Join us for a deep dive with Archivist Terry Bragg as he uncovers the fascinating history of McLean - you won't want to miss this! Terry A. Bragg, Archivist of the McLean Hospital in Belmont since 1981, will present an illustrated lecture tracing the remarkable history of New England’s first psychiatric hospital. From the time it opened in 1818, McLean Hospital followed the principles of “moral treatment” for the mentally ill, in distinct contrast to the prevailing practices at the time. Patients with mental illness were most often hidden and housed in jails, almshouses, and private homes. If they existed at all, dedicated facilities for the mentally ill provided little care and few activities. With this new approach to mental healthcare, the construction and maintenance of psychiatric care institutions began to play an increasingly important role in the treatment of the mentally ill, and McLean Hospital was among the leaders in the transformation. Terry Bragg will speak to the history of McLean in Somerville and their development of the existing site in Belmont.

250th First Flag Raising

<a href="https://www.somervillemuseum.org/calendar-events/250th-first-flag-raising-celebration">250th First Flag Raising Celebration</a><ul><li>11:30 AM  1:00 PM</li><li>Prospect Hill Park <a href="http://maps.google.com/?q=Munroe%20Street%20Somerville,%20MA%2002143">(map)</a> </li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/calendar/event?action=TEMPLATE&amp;text=250th%20First%20Flag%20Raising%20Celebration&amp;dates=20260101T163000Z/20260101T180000Z&amp;location=Munroe%20Street%2C%20Somerville%2C%20MA%2002143">Google Calendar</a>  <a href="https://www.somervillemuseum.org/calendar-events/250th-first-flag-raising-celebration?format=ical">ICS</a> </li></ul>11:30 am: Procession from City Hall (all are invited) 12-1pm: First Flag Celebration at Prospect Hill Park (bring your own - or a neighbor’s national flag) This year's milestone 250th anniversary expands the traditional military ceremony to reflect better the full diversity of people whose labor, courage, and aspirations shaped the Revolution. The program is free, but please register on <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/250th-first-flag-raising-tickets-1976506778982?utm-campaign=social&amp;utm-content=attendeeshare&amp;utm-medium=discovery&amp;utm-term=listing&amp;utm-source=cp&amp;aff=ebdsshcopyurl">Eventbrite.</a>

Prospect Hill Park

Tea and Tales for a. Winter’s Night

<a href="https://www.somervillemuseum.org/calendar-events/story-circle-indigenous-tales-through-film-storytelling-ra377">Tea and Tales for a. Winter’s Night</a><ul><li>7:00 PM  8:30 PM</li><li>Somerville Museum <a href="http://maps.google.com/?q=One%20Westwood%20Road%20Somerville,%20MA%2002143">(map)</a> </li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/calendar/event?action=TEMPLATE&amp;text=Tea%20and%20Tales%20for%20a.%20Winter%E2%80%99s%20Night%20&amp;dates=20251219T000000Z/20251219T013000Z&amp;location=One%20Westwood%20Road%2C%20Somerville%2C%20MA%2002143">Google Calendar</a>  <a href="https://www.somervillemuseum.org/calendar-events/story-circle-indigenous-tales-through-film-storytelling-ra377?format=ical">ICS</a> </li></ul>Step into the warm glow of the Somerville Museum this December for Tea &amp; Tales for a Winter’s Night. On December 18th, join us by the fireside for a comforting cup of tea and an evening steeped in the centuries-old tradition of telling ghost stories during the darkest days of the year. Together, we’ll wander through Somerville’s own winter folklore—including the mysteries of the Ursuline Convent and the spectral lore surrounding the Somerville Theatre—as we uncover why the holiday season has long inspired eerie tales. Long nights, crackling hearths, and deep winter quiet have always stirred the imagination, giving rise to stories meant to thrill, unsettle, and bring people closer around the fire. Cozy, atmospheric, and just a touch spooky, this intimate evening invites lovers of folklore, history, and seasonal storytelling to settle in and savor the magic of winter ghost lore. Come for the tea—stay for the spirits.

Haunted Histories Walking Tour

Haunted Histories Walking Tour with Mellisa Gay Somerville after dark: where every corner has a story Step into the shadows of Somerville’s past on this haunted history walking tour. From ghostly soldiers at the Somerville Museum to eerie sightings at Milk Row Cemetery, Prospect Hill, and more, you’ll hear chilling tales of tragedy, mystery, and restless spirits. Led by local historian Melissa, this tour reveals the haunted side of the city you thought you knew. Melissa has been a lifelong resident of Somerville. She attended the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and earned her bachelor's degree in history. She has been with the museum for three years now, going on four. Melissa has always had a love for stories, whether historical, haunted, or otherwise. You might see her kicking around the library, doing research or reading, and having a grand old time.

History Unlocked Drop-in Chats

HISTORY UNLOCKED: DROP-IN CHATS EVERY 2nd THURSDAY 6-8 pm EVERY 4th SATURDAY 10 am-12 pm THE POWDER HOUSE, MILK ROW CEMETERY, and PROSPECT HILL TOWER will be open to the public on select dates and times from May through October as part of HISTORY ON THE LINE, a series of exhibitions and programs organized by the Somerville Museum and funded by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism’s MA250 initiative and the City of Somerville. JOIN US TO CELEBRATE SOMERVILLE FROM ROOTS TO REVOLUTION ON THE 25OTH ANNIVERSARY! THE POWDER HOUSE Thur., May 8 Thur.,. May 22 Sat., June 28 Thur., August 7 Sat., September 27 MILK ROW CEMETERY Thur., June 12 Sat., July 26 Thur., September 11 Sat., October 25 PROSPECT HILL Sat., May 24 Thur.., May 29 Thur., July 10 Sat., August 23 Thur., October 9

THE POWDER HOUSE, MILK ROW CEMETERY &amp; PROSPECT HILL TOWER will be open to the public on select dates and times from May through October. EVERY 2nd THURSDAY 6-8 pm EVERY 4th SATURDAY 10 am-12 pm THE POWDER HOUSE, MILK ROW CEMETERY, and PROSPECT HILL TOWER will be open to the public on select dates and times from May through October as part of HISTORY ON THE LINE, a series of exhibitions and programs organized by the Somerville Museum and funded by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism’s MA250 initiative and the City of Somerville. JOIN US TO CELEBRATE SOMERVILLE FROM ROOTS TO REVOLUTION ON THE 25OTH ANNIVERSARY! THE POWDER HOUSE Thur.., May 8 Thur.., May 22 Sat., June 28 Thur., August 7 Sat., September 27 MILK ROW CEMETERY Thur., June 12 Sat., July 26 Thur., September 11 Sat., October 25 PROSPECT HILL Sat., May 24 Thur.., May 29 Thur., July 10 Sat., August 23 Thur., October 9

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.

somervillemuseum

Experiences

Tavern Talk: Snowbound: The Blizzard of '78

ECHOES IN INK: Found Poetry from the Collection

Mapping Your Neighborhood Family Program

Collage from the Collection

Good Neighbor Open House and Bagel Brunch

Your Home Is A Museum

Crafting Care: A Community Quilt Workshop with Lauren Leone

Valentine's Day Mixer

Tavern Talk: Henry Knox and his Noble Train of Artillery: A 2-Part Series

Archivist Terry Bragg on the Founding and History of McLean

250th First Flag Raising

Tea and Tales for a. Winter’s Night

Haunted Histories Walking Tour

History Unlocked Drop-in Chats

History Unlocked Drop-in Chats