Fenway Civic Association

Dear Members and Friends:

Big News: Cold then Snow Emergency / Patriots Game! / Time Out is baaaaaack. We haven’t seen a storm like this in quite awhile, since ‘the big one’ in 2015. Be safe and watch out for our neighbors! The storm hits on Sunday, the Patriots Game will be in Denver, but locally, we may face white out conditions – so plan accordingly! And just when it seemed like there was no time left for Time Out Boston, surprise! There is more Time to be had!

WINTER WEATHER EMERGENCY! Temperatures below freezing all week! 

The City of Boston has declared a COLD and SNOW EMERGENCY through Monday. Snow is expected to begin Sunday mid-day, then intensify and continue overnight. Please prepare and stay safe, please stay off the roads during snow emergency. 

National Weather Service 7-day forecast for 02215: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=42.3459267&lon=-71.1025034

If you see someone in danger outside, please call 911 

Exposure to extreme cold can cause frostbite, hypothermia or death. Take precautions, check in on older adults, people with disabilities, and people experiencing homelessness. If you see someone endangered out in the cold, please call 911. 

Emergency shelters: https://www.boston.gov/departments/housing/services-those-experiencing-homeless

Cold Weather Safety https://www.boston.gov/departments/311/cold-weather-safety-tips

Parking bans, restrictions and discounted parking lots: 

Parking ban starts on Sunday at 8am  https://www.boston.gov/departments/311/snow-emergency-parking#map–239736 Visit this page to see which roads have NO PARKING during snow emergency: including Avenue Louis Pasteur, Beacon Street, Brookline Avenue, Boylston Street, Evans Way, Francis Street, Hemenway Street, Huntington Avenue, Longwood Avenue, Louis Prang Street, Westland Avenue also Park Drive, The Fenway, and Mass Ave. Do not park on these emergency thoroughfares. Instead, find a discounted Parking lot on the map, and see the hours and costs.

The Mass DCR and DOT manage roads in and around the Fenway: including Park Drive, Agassiz Way, Forsyth Way, Fenway Service Road, Charlesgate areas, ramps to Bowker Overpass and Storrow… etc. DCR Winter Storm Plan and Priority Map | Mass.gov. So, it’s complicated! Best to stay off the roads and out of harm’s way.

Important winter emergency phone numbers here:

https://www.boston.gov/departments/311/important-winter-phone-numbers

Rules on clearing snow for property owners:

https://www.boston.gov/departments/311/rules-clearing-snow

Trash during snow emergency:

https://www.boston.gov/departments/311/winter-weather-trash-and-recycling-tips-help-keep-collection-running-safely

THE WEEK AHEAD

Monday, January 26, Expect widespread closures due to snow emergency- If you plan on going somewhere, it is best to call ahead, as widespread closures have already been announced. 

GOVERNMENT NEWS

Governor Healey Delivered the  2026 State of the Commonwealth on Jan. 22nd view the full recording on YouTube: skip to minute 54 when Governor takes the podium 

https://www.boston.gov/departments/participatory-budgeting/ideas-action

Boston City Budget – Participatory Voting is now open until February 15th! The City of Boston’s Participatory Budgeting initiative allows residents to decide how to spend a portion of the City’s budget. Choose which projects will have the biggest impact on your community.You don’t have to be a registered voter or even an adult – if you live in Boston and are at least 11 years old (or in 6th grade), you’re allowed to participate until February 15! Learn more and link to the voting page here: https://www.boston.gov/departments/participatory-budgeting/ideas-action

ONGOING & UPCOMING

Sunday, February 1st from 4:00 pm, Bean Celebration Setsubun- Mamemaki at Kaji Aso Studio, 40 St Stephen Street

A purifying ceremony for the new year, 2026 Year of the Horse, “to hurl beans and oust the bad spirits!”  Followed by sweet Japanese pastry and sencha green tea. In-person event. (see flyer below) Please RSVP to administrator@kajiasostudio.com

Suggested Donations:$10 per person / $8 students/seniors / Children under 12 years $4

Kaji Aso Studio – 2026 International Haiku Contest – Submissions due April 6th.

Please Note: This is a different deadline date from previous years. Offering cash prizes, and a complimentary Certificate of Commendation for first prize from the Consulate General of Japan in Boston. Vist the website for full details on how to participate. Click here to read some of last year’s winning haikus.

THE NATION’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY

Revolution never gets old! On July 4th, 2026, the USA will celebrate it’s 250th Anniversary.There are plenty of activities throughout Boston: https://www.boston.gov/boston-250, and throughout the state: https://massachusetts250.org/events/

Revolution! 250 Years of Art & Activism in Boston – art exhibit at BPL The exhibit runs to April 21, 2026.  Free, open to all – check out bpl.org for visitor info.

TRANSPORTATION & DEVELOPMENT

City of Boston – Curb Use Survey: the Public Curb Map project aims to learn how people use curb space, how they understand curb rules, how the City communicates curb-related information, and how residents share feedback. Please take this short survey to contribute to the study: Boston Public Curb Map — Community Survey 

MBTA: Visit the MBTA shutdowns 2025 site for full info on service disruptions. 

Bowker Overpass project: follow progress on the project page.

DEVELOPMENT NEWS by status: “Under Review”:   “Board Approved”:

Monday, January 26, 6:00 PM – 08:00 PM, Planning Department meeting on Tufts University Boston Campuses IMP – Public Meeting | Virtual

The Planning Department is hosting a virtual public meeting for the extension and renewal (with no changes) of the Institutional Master Plan (IMP) for Tufts University – Boston Campuses, located in the Chinatown, Fenway, and Mission Hill neighborhoods of Boston. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Institutional Master Plan Notification Form (IMPNF) that was filed and its potential impacts. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the public.

Tufts University’s IMP was last renewed in 2023. The University seeks to renew the existing IMP for five years with no proposal for additional development plans.

How to Participate

Meeting ID: 160 611 0835
Registration Link: bosplans.org/TuftsIMP-PublicMeet

[Learn more about this event]

HEALTH & SAFETY

FENWAY CARES Every other Wednesday, 3:30 pm ‘til done – Next date Jan 28

Fenway Cares Food Distribution at 2 locations:

West Fenway – Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston (enter-Jersey)

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! 

The MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic 1-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates. Rotates between the West and East Fenway locations (see above). Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19 and flu vaccines.

on 2/11 at Morville House, 100 Norway St. and 1/28 at Fenway Community Center. 

Boston Police D4 Community News eMail  Add your email to the list 

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Promoting a vital and sustainable neighborhood

Dear Members and Friends:

This Monday we honor the memory of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and his legacy of service to others to improve the lives of all. MLK Day was first introduced four days after his assassination on April 4, 1968. It took an additional 32 years for it to be recognized in all 50 states. Today, it is the only federal holiday designated as a national day of service to encourage Americans to volunteer and improve their communities.

Martin Luther King’s speech at the Lincoln Memorial, Washington, D.C, on August 28, 1963, is recognized as one of the most important speeches of the 20th century. The quote “I have a dream…” is found is at the 12:30 minute marker on the following video of the full speech https://vimeo.com/35177221 

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in the midst at the March on Washington – Saint Louis Art Museum 

THE WEEK AHEAD

Monday, January 19, Martin Luther King Jr. Day- federal holiday

For local events commemorating MLK’s legacy and contributions to society:

https://www.meetboston.com/events/holidays/martin-luther-king-day/

Both the ICA and MFA will open their doors for free on MLK Day, as well as a myriad of other events. A great time to offer a day of service, or to make a longer commitment. 

2026 Day of Celebration in Honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Announced | Boston.gov noon, at Boston University. The event will be live-streamed on Boston.gov. 

(FYI, possible traffic disruption) Tuesday, January 20, 2PM local time, Boston Free America Walkout: a vigil for what we have lost. Local event planned at Ruggles. 

ONGOING & UPCOMING

Kaji Aso Studio – 2026 International Haiku Contest – Submissions due April 6th.

Please Note: This is a different deadline date from previous years. Offering cash prizes, and a complimentary Certificate of Commendation for first prize from the Consulate General of Japan in Boston. Vist the website for full details on how to participate. Click here to read some of last year’s winning haikus.

THE NATION’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY

Revolution never gets old! On July 4th, 2026, the USA will celebrate it’s 250th Anniversary.There are plenty of activities throughout Boston: https://www.boston.gov/boston-250, and throughout the state: https://massachusetts250.org/events/

Revolution! 250 Years of Art & Activism in Boston – art exhibit at BPL The exhibit runs to April 21, 2026.  Free, open to all – check out bpl.org for visitor info.

TRANSPORTATION & DEVELOPMENT

City of Boston – Curb Use Survey: the Public Curb Map project aims to learn how people use curb space, how they understand curb rules, how the City communicates curb-related information, and how residents share feedback. Please take this short survey to contribute to the study: Boston Public Curb Map — Community Survey 

MBTA: Visit the MBTA shutdowns 2025 site for full info on service disruptions. 

Bowker Overpass project: follow progress on the project page.

DEVELOPMENT NEWS by status: “Under Review”:   “Board Approved”:

Closings at 401 Park Drive: Just announced, the imminent closure of Time Out Market, and later on, REI to close (no set date).

Monday, January 26, 6:00 PM – 08:00 PM, Planning Department meeting on Tufts University Boston Campuses IMP – Public Meeting | Virtual

The Planning Department is hosting a virtual public meeting for the extension and renewal (with no changes) of the Institutional Master Plan (IMP) for Tufts University – Boston Campuses, located in the Chinatown, Fenway, and Mission Hill neighborhoods of Boston. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Institutional Master Plan Notification Form (IMPNF) that was filed and its potential impacts. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the public.

Tufts University’s IMP was last renewed in 2023. The University seeks to renew the existing IMP for five years with no proposal for additional development plans.

How to Participate

Meeting ID: 160 611 0835
Registration Link: bosplans.org/TuftsIMP-PublicMeet

[Learn more about this event]

HEALTH & SAFETY

FENWAY CARES Every other Wednesday, 3:30 pm ‘til done – Next date Jan 28

Fenway Cares Food Distribution at 2 locations:

West Fenway – Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston (enter-Jersey)

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! 

The MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic 1-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates. Rotates between the West and East Fenway locations (see above). Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19 and flu vaccines.

on 2/11 at Morville House, 100 Norway St. and 1/28 at Fenway Community Center. 

Boston Police D4 Community News eMail  Add your email to the list 

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Promoting a vital and sustainable neighborhood

Dear Members and Friends:

Last week was the first full work week of 2026, and a lot happened! 

On Monday, January 5th, Liz Breadon became the new Boston City Council president by a 7-to-6 vote. The President leads council meetings, sets the legislative agenda, assigns members to committees, and decides which committees review specific legislation, shaping the Council’s work and its oversight of the Mayor’s administration, and becomes Acting Mayor if the Mayor’s office becomes vacant. Congratulations to Councilor Breadon.

On Wednesday, January 7th, an ICE officer shot and killed Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, MN. The next day, a Customs and Border Protection Agent shot and injured two people in Portland, OR. Mayor Wu and Governor Healy along with many elected officials have publicly condemned the aggressive tactics of ICE. Bostonians held peaceful protests against ICE violence on Wednesday and through the weekend. A nationwide walkout is planned for Tuesday, January 20th at 2PM local time. 

Meanwhile, the Flu is spiking, and the Boston Public Health Commission encourages all residents over six months of age to get their annual flu vaccine. For nearby vaccination providers: use www.vaccinefinder.org. For help applying for health insurance, contact the Mayor’s Health Line at (617) 534-5050– a free, confidential, and multilingual service to help families, regardless of immigration status, find routine care. 

New mail related (and more) services available in West Fens: Did you know you can buy USPS postal stamps at the new UPS store on Boylston Street? That, along with a whole lot of other services are now available in the new West Fenway UPS location across from Star Market. You can mail packages, both UPS and USPS, make copies, print flyers, do faxing, scanning, laminating, shredding, rent a mail box, and more. All a welcome addition of much needed services to our neighborhood! For questions, call 617-738-4461 #4 https://locations.theupsstore.com/ma/boston/1363-boylston-st/

THE WEEK AHEAD

Tuesday, Jan 13, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., City Hall On The Go: Fenway-Kenmore, scheduled stop near Whole Foods at 83 Edgerly Road. Good news, the city services truck is back, and bringing city services to our neighborhood. Check out their web page for a full list of services offered. No appointment needed, no cash accepted. Get your business done locally! Permits, applications, information and more.

Wednesday, Jan 14, Fenway Cares resumes a bi-weekly schedule for 2026, including the health clinic. Full details below in Health & Safety.

Thursday, Jan 15, 11am, Office of Outdoor Advertising Virtual Public Meeting – Re: Electronic billboard at 51 Brookline Avenue.

via Zoom. The public can offer testimony. In order to participate, you must register at the following link: Register for the meeting.

The agenda includes application by Orange Barrel Media, LLC for one permit for the construction of an electronic billboard to replace an existing static display at 51 Brookline Avenue (rooftop of structure). New Application # 2026D001 (Existing structure, permit #’s 16631, 16631a, 16631b, facing south)

ONGOING & UPCOMING

THE NATION’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY

Revolution never gets old! On July 4th, 2026, the USA will celebrate it’s 250th Anniversary.There are plenty of activities throughout Boston: https://www.boston.gov/boston-250, and throughout the state: https://massachusetts250.org/events/

Also, a great exhibition at the main library branch at Copley Square: 

Revolution! 250 Years of Art & Activism in Boston – art exhibit at BPL The exhibit opened on October 23, 2025 and runs to April 21, 2026.  Free, open to all – check out bpl.org for visitor info.

TRANSPORTATION & DEVELOPMENT

MBTA: Visit the MBTA shutdowns 2025 site for full info on service disruptions. Orange Line service will be suspended between Wellington and Back Bay on January 10–11 for tunnel inspections. 

Bowker Overpass project: follow progress on the project page.

DEVELOPMENT NEWS by status: “Under Review”:   “Board Approved”:

HEALTH & SAFETY

FENWAY CARES Every other Wednesday, 3:30 pm ‘til done – 

Restarts on January 14th.

Fenway Cares Food Distribution at 2 locations:

West Fenway – Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston (enter-Jersey)

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! 

The MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic 1-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates. Rotates between the West and East Fenway locations (see above). Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19 and flu vaccines.

on 1/14 at Morville House, 100 Norway St. and 1/28 at Fenway Community Center. 

Boston Police D4 Community News eMail  Add your email to the list 

OPAT news! The FCA will be meeting with the new head of OPAT to connect the community and the office to continue beneficial relations with the BPD in the Fens:  ​​Police Accountability And Transparency | Boston.gov

The Office of Police Accountability and Transparency (OPAT) is a civilian body that investigates complaints of Boston Police Department misconduct. They help ensure a fair and thorough Boston Police Department Internal Affairs review process and review both existing and proposed police policies and procedures. 

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Promoting a vital and sustainable neighborhood

Dear Members and Friends:

Welcome to 2026! After all the holiday parties, January is a time of change, with new year’s resolutions setting goals for a better future. The new year brings a new term for the Mayor Wu and a new District 7 Councilor for the Fenway, Miniard Culpepper. You’ll also see a new increase in your real estate taxes, due February 2nd, and if you’re having “tax shock” you may want to get more information on the Mayor’s position: Mayor Wu’s 2026 Property Tax Relief Calculator | Boston.gov and the MA State Senate’s reaction as reported in The Boston Sun:  Senate Tax Relief Bills Advance – The Boston Sun. 

2026 elections: This year, we’ll have primary elections on September 1, followed by election day November 3 for MA Senate and US Senate offices. You’ll be seeing a lot of challenges to the incumbents both locally and nationally, as the balance of power is typically contested in the mid-term elections. Stay tuned!

2026 is the 250th Anniversary of the United States. 

As we take a sober look into the future, it is well worth reflecting on our path to freedom from one of this country’s greatest civil rights leaders and an exceptional legislator:

“Freedom is not a state; it is an act. It is not some enchanted garden perched high on a distant plateau where we can finally sit down and rest. Freedom is the continuous action we all must take, and each generation must do its part to create an even more fair, more just society. The work of love, peace, and justice will always be necessary, until their realism and their imperative takes hold of our imagination, crowds out any dream of hatred or revenge, and fills up our existence with their power.”

― John Lewis, Across That Bridge: Life Lessons and a Vision for Change

As we are fortunate to live in the ‘cradle of freedom’ (and no less, the “hub of the universe”!) there is much to celebrate, and some spectacular ongoing programs to engage in this year:

Revolution! Boston celebrates the 250th anniversary of USA

Boston is leading major celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary (America250) in 2026, focusing on the Revolution’s birthplace with extensive events in 2025-2026, including historic reenactments (Paul Revere’s Ride, Battle of Bunker Hill), the Sail250 tall ship event, the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, and ongoing educational programs by organizations like Boston 250 and MA250 to highlight the city’s revolutionary past and future spirit. Democracy is a work in progress: it takes the people to ensure a government by and for the people! 

THE WEEK AHEAD

Monday, Jan 5, 2026, 10 am start, Inauguration of Mayor Michelle Wu and the Boston City Council

Mayor Michelle Wu and the Boston City Council will be inaugurated on January 5, 2026, at 10 a.m. The inauguration ceremony will be livestreamed on this page.

Tuesday*, Jan 6, 2026 – Christmas Tree Pickup

Out with the old… Christmas Tree Pickup Services with city trash this week. The City of Boston collects Christmas trees from the curb on your normal trash day between December 29, 2025, and January 9, 2026. If you have two trash days in a week, your tree will be picked up on the first trash day of that week. For most in the Fenway, that will be on Tuesday, Jan 6. Enter your address to see your pickup schedule here.

• Make sure to put your tree on the curb by 6 AM on your collection day.
• Trees with lights, ornaments, or in plastic bags will not be picked up.

https://www.boston.gov/departments/boston-digital-service/ai-search?searchbar=Christmas+Tree+pickup%3F&source=Ai-enabled-search-banner&referrer=node%2F11666&language=en&anonymous=true

ONGOING & UPCOMING

Revolution! 250 Years of Art & Activism in Boston – art exhibit at BPL The exhibit opened on October 23, 2025 and runs to April 21, 2026.  The Boston Public Library (BPL) is presenting its first major exhibition in nearly a decade. Revolution! 250 Years of Art and Activism in Boston features more than 100 artworks and documentary materials from the BPL’s renowned Special Collections, the exhibition explores America’s evolving struggles for freedom, civil rights, and belonging. The exhibition is part of Road to Revolution, the BPL’s three-year cycle of programs leading to the anniversary of the American Revolution in 2026. Free, open to all – check out bpl.org for visitor info.

TRANSPORTATION & DEVELOPMENT

MBTA: Visit the MBTA shutdowns 2025 site for full info on service disruptions. Orange Line service will be suspended between Wellington and Back Bay on January 10–11 for tunnel inspections. 

Bowker Overpass project: follow progress on the project page.

DEVELOPMENT NEWS by status: “Under Review”:   “Board Approved”:

HEALTH & SAFETY

FENWAY CARES Every other Wednesday, 3:30 pm ‘til done – 

Restarts on January 14th.

Fenway Cares Food Distribution at 2 locations:

West Fenway – Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston (enter-Jersey)

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! 

The MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic 1-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates. Rotates between the West and East Fenway locations (see above). Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19 and flu vaccines.

on 1/14 at Morville House, 100 Norway St. and 1/28 at Fenway Community Center. 

Boston Police D4 Community News eMail  Add your email to the list 

OPAT news! The FCA will be meeting with the new head of OPAT to connect the community and the office to continue beneficial relations with the BPD in the Fens:  ​​Police Accountability And Transparency | Boston.gov

The Office of Police Accountability and Transparency (OPAT) is a civilian body that investigates complaints of Boston Police Department misconduct. They help ensure a fair and thorough Boston Police Department Internal Affairs review process and review both existing and proposed police policies and procedures. 

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Promoting a vital and sustainable neighborhood

Dear Members and Friends:

Happy Holidays!!!

Holiday Giving – looking for a good cause to support? Please consider donating to FENWAY CARES. Established in 2020 during COVID-19 to address the urgent issue of food security, which has only grown–especially with the elderly and those on fixed incomes. Funding is a constant challenge. Follow this link to the Fenway Cares page, scroll down to see the food distribution donation options. Thank you!

Winter Solstice – the longest night has passed!

The Winter Solstice for the Northern Hemisphere in 2025 occurred on Sunday, December 21, at 10:03 AM EST, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year as Earth’s North Pole tilts furthest from the Sun, beginning the astronomical winter and the slow return of daylight. 

https://www.nps.gov/subjects/naturalphenomena/winter-solstice.htm

Many ancient people believed that the sun was a god and that winter came every year because the sun god had become sick and weak. They celebrated the winter solstice  because it meant that, at last, the sun god would begin to get well. Evergreen boughs reminded them of all the green plants that would grow again when the sun god was strong and summer would return.

Celebrations of light and joy abound throughout the area… all culminating in the upcoming New Year’s celebration. As with most everything, Boston has a storied past celebrating the winter holidays.. Not all fun and games for the Puritans! It was really the German immigrants and Queen Victoria who ushered in the modern Christmas tree traditions. For a look back, from outlawed celebrations, to claims of paganism, rowdy carollers, to the modern light-hearted approach.. Here’s a link to  New England Historical Society:  We Won’t Go Until We Get Some: New England Colonial Christmas Traditions.

THE WEEK AHEAD

Thursday, December 25th is Christmas Day, a city Holiday City Hall is closed, please check with individual offices and businesses for local closures and schedules.

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Holiday Lights abound! Check out this list from the City’s Parks & Rec dept, and brighten your nights…from the Common, to the waterfront, up to Charlesgate, it’s getting festive!

12 holiday arts events to attend in Greater Boston | WBUR News

12 Best Boston Winter Holiday Christmas Markets 2025

Holiday & Christmas Shows in Boston MA 2025/26

ARTS & PERFORMANCES

Kaji Aso Studio presents  https://www.kajiasostudio.com/

New England Conservatory of Music–  Performances + Events – NECMusic

TRANSPORTATION & DEVELOPMENT

MBTA: Visit the MBTA shutdowns 2025 site for full info on service disruptions. The Green Line is shut down between North Station and Babcock/Kenmore/Heath through December 22nd.  https://www.boston.gov/departments/transportation/boston-mbta-shutdowns-2025

The Bowker Overpass project: follow progress on the project page.

DEVELOPMENT NEWS by status: “Under Review”:   “Board Approved”:

APPROVED: 58 Fenway

SOLD: 2 Charlesgate – purchased by Berklee – plans for use yet to be detailed.

ON HOLD: Fenway Center Project Fenway Center – Parcel 7 Air Rights | Bostonplans.org

HEALTH & SAFETY

FENWAY CARES Every other Wednesday, 3:30 pm ‘til done – 

We’ve completed this year’s distributions, happy holidays!

Starting up again in 2026, on January 14th.

Fenway Cares Food Distribution at 2 locations:

West Fenway – Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston (enter-Jersey)

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! 

The MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic 1-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates. Rotates between the West and East Fenway locations (see above). Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19 and flu vaccines.

Fenway Community Center on 1/14, and Morville House, 100 Norway St. on 1/28

Boston Police D4 Community News eMail  Add your email to the list 

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Promoting a vital and sustainable neighborhood

Dear Members and Friends:

A quiet week while the winter weather catches us in the Fenway.

Enjoy these photos from the Fenway Tree lighting – with thanks to Mayor Wu and our Fenway representatives and thank you all for joining us!

We are grateful to our partners at Samuels & Associates, to Fenway Community Center, Wally, Tessie, and the Boston Red Sox, and to all sponsors, partners, and generous volunteers who helped make this event a success.

This Wednesday is the last Fenway Cares food distribution for 2025 – operations will resume January 14th. Please remember FENWAY CARES  as you consider charitable causes – this all-volunteer program is entering its 7th year, providing over 10,000 boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables to neighbors and preventative clinic services through the MGB Community Care team every year. Funding is a constant challenge. Follow this link to the Fenway Cares page, scroll down to see the food distribution donation options. Thank you!

This week, join Fenway Alliance for cocoa and carols at New Edgerly Plaza on December 20th. For these details and more, scroll below.

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Holiday Lights abound, with cocoa and carols at New Edgerly Plaza! Check out this list from the City’s Parks & Rec dept, and brighten your nights…from the Common, to the waterfront, up to Charlesgate, it’s getting festive!

12 holiday arts events to attend in Greater Boston | WBUR News

12 Best Boston Winter Holiday Christmas Markets 2025

Holiday & Christmas Shows in Boston MA 2025/26Cocoa and Carols at New Edgerly Plaza:  Saturday December 20th, 4-6 p.m. Presented by Fenway Alliance

ARTS & PERFORMANCES

New England Conservatory of Music–  Performances + Events – NECMusicFirst Night – get ready!

TRANSPORTATION & DEVELOPMENT

MBTA: Visit the MBTA shutdowns 2025 site for full info on service disruptions.

The Bowker Overpass project: follow progress on the project page.

DEVELOPMENT NEWS by status: “Under Review”:   “Board Approved”:

HEALTH & SAFETY

FENWAY CARES Every other Wednesday, 3:30 pm ‘til done – next date: 12/17 -> Fenway Cares will take a break 12/31 and return on 1/14/26

Fenway Cares Food Distribution at 2 locations:

West Fenway – Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston (enter-Jersey)

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! 

The MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic 

Next clinic: Morville House from 1-4 PM, 100 Norway St. on 12/17

Free Vaccine Clinics in Boston. Check the website for dates and locations.

Boston Police D4 Community News eMail  Add your email to the list 

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Promoting a vital and sustainable neighborhood

Dear Members and Friends:

FCA Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Event

Tonight! 

Wednesday Dec 10  6:00 pm

Santa is flying in, trying to push the rain away (I think he’ll do it! He’s got clout!)

Join us at the Back Bay Fens 

outside Kelleher Rose Garden, across from 77 Park Drive

Mayor Wu will join us and share holiday greetings. Santa will be making an appearance! With our  friends Wally and Tessie joining the fun. Celebrate with live music from the Children’s Choir, hot drinks, holiday cookies, and a warm welcome from the FCA board and elected officials as we flick on the lights on our holiday tree. Then keep the party going… Luminary Walk and procession to Cisco Brewers for Cheers and treats ‘til 11 PM. Happy Holidays!!

Dear Members and Friends:

Season’s Greetings and every good wish 

for health and happiness, peace and goodwill.

Come Celebrate!

Wednesday, December 10, 6:00 pm

FCA Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Event

at the Back Bay Fens (outside Kelleher Rose Garden, across from 77 Park Drive).

We’re thrilled to announce Mayor Wu will join us and share holiday greetings. Santa will be making an appearance! With our  friends Wally and Tessie joining the fun. Celebrate with live music from the Children’s Choir, hot drinks, holiday cookies, and a warm welcome from the FCA board and elected officials as we flick on the lights on our holiday tree. Then keep the party going… Luminary Walk and procession to The Station, and Cheers and treats at Cisco Brewers ‘til 11 PM. Happy Holidays!!

Holiday Giving – looking for a good cause to support? Please consider donating to FENWAY CARES. Established in 2020 during COVID-19 to address the urgent issue of food security, which has only grown–especially with the elderly and those on fixed incomes. Funding is a constant challenge. Follow this link to the Fenway Cares page, scroll down to see the food distribution donation options. Thank you!

THE WEEK AHEAD

Wednesday, Dec 10, 9:15am, Boston Zoning Commission Hearing on Northeastern University IMP (10 year plan)

How to attend: Register for Zoom meeting: bosplans.org/BZCDec1025

This hearing will review the 10-year Master Plan, including major developments to redevelop the 262 St. Botolph Street site, which currently houses Matthews Arena and a surface parking lot, and build a new, approximately 310,000 square foot (sf) Multipurpose facility. Follow this link to the full IMP document:

2025-2035 Northeastern University Institutional Master Plan (“IMP”)

Master Plan (“IMP”) 

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Holiday Lights abound! Check out this list from the City’s Parks & Rec dept, and brighten your nights…from the Common, to the waterfront, up to Charlesgate, it’s getting festive!

12 holiday arts events to attend in Greater Boston | WBUR News

12 Best Boston Winter Holiday Christmas Markets 2025

Holiday & Christmas Shows in Boston MA 2025/26

ARTS & PERFORMANCES

Saturday, December 6, 7 PM (live and livestreamed) Kaji Aso Studio presents  Sumei Kaneko koto & shamisen – free concert – https://www.kajiasostudio.com/

New England Conservatory of Music–  Performances + Events – NECMusic

TRANSPORTATION & DEVELOPMENT

MBTA: Visit the MBTA shutdowns 2025 site for full info on service disruptions.

The Bowker Overpass project: follow progress on the project page.

DEVELOPMENT NEWS by status: “Under Review”:   “Board Approved”:

SOLD: 2 Charlesgate – purchased by Berklee – plans for use yet to be detailed.

ON HOLD: Fenway Center Project – 1 million square feet of lab space, over the Mass Pike. The Boston Globe reports IQHQ put the $1 billion project on hold until the real estate market for life sciences improves. 

HEALTH & SAFETY

FENWAY CARES Every other Wednesday, 3:30 pm ‘til done – next date: 12/17

Fenway Cares Food Distribution at 2 locations:

West Fenway – Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston (enter-Jersey)

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! 

The MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic 1-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates. Rotates between the West and East Fenway locations (see above). Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19 and flu vaccines.

Fenway Community Center on 12/31, and Morville House, 100 Norway St. on 12/17

Free Vaccine Clinics in Boston. Check the website for dates and locations.

Boston Police D4 Community News eMail  Add your email to the list 

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Promoting a vital and sustainable neighborhood

Dear Members and Friends:

The Holidays are Here!

A time to reflect, to gather, to care for those in need, a time to shed the old year and ring in the new. A time of celebration and promise. Happy Holidays!

Join us Wednesday, December 10, 6pm, at the FCA Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Event, at the Back Bay Fens. Celebrate the season with music, hot drinks, and a warm welcome from the FCA board and elected officials as we flick on the lights on our holiday tree. We look forward to seeing you all at this popular annual event. (Flyer below.)

Holiday Giving – looking for a good cause to support? Please consider donating to FENWAY CARES. Established in 2020 during COVID-19 to address the urgent issue of food security, it became evident the need for food assistance was already here, and has only grown–especially with the elderly and residents on fixed incomes. Funding is a constant challenge. As you make charitable contributions this year, please consider donating to Fenway Cares. Follow this link to the Fenway Cares page, and scroll down to see the food distribution donation options. Any amount is helpful, whether it’s a one-time or monthly pledge. Thank you!

THE WEEK AHEAD

Holiday Lights abound! Check out this list from the City’s Parks & Rec dept, and brighten your nights…from the Common, to the waterfront, up to Charlesgate, it’s getting festive!

Wednesday, Dec 3 – Fenway Cares (see HEALTH & SAFETY below for full details)

LAST WEEK!! Medicare open enrollment period ENDS ON  DEC 7. Older adults are encouraged to call Age Strong at 617-635-4366 for planning assistance.

UPCOMING

Wednesday, December 10, 6pm, FCA Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Event, at the Back Bay Fens. Come celebrate the season with the Fenway Community – live music from the Children’s Choir, hot drinks, and a warm welcome from the FCA board and elected officials as we flick on the lights on our holiday tree. We look forward to seeing you all at this popular annual event. Check out and share the flyer below! 

ARTS & CULTURE

12 holiday arts events to attend in Greater Boston | WBUR News

12 Best Boston Winter Holiday Christmas Markets 2025

Holiday & Christmas Shows in Boston MA 2025/26

Gardner Museum Free First Thursdays every month: Thursdays at the Gardner  

New England Conservatory of Music–  Performances + Events – NECMusic

TRANSPORTATION & DEVELOPMENT

MBTA: Visit the MBTA shutdowns 2025 site for full info on service disruptions.

The Bowker Overpass project: follow progress on the project page.

DEVELOPMENT NEWS by status: “Under Review”:   “Board Approved”:

Wednesday, Dec 10, 9:15am, Boston Zoning Commission Hearing on Northeastern University IMP (10 year plan)

How to attend: Register for Zoom meeting: bosplans.org/BZCDec1025

This hearing will review the 10-year Master Plan, including major developments to redevelop the 262 St. Botolph Street site, which currently houses Matthews Arena and a surface parking lot, and build a new, approximately 310,000 square foot (sf) Multipurpose facility. Follow this link to the full IMP document:

2025-2035 Northeastern University Institutional Master Plan (“IMP”)

Master Plan (“IMP”) The Boston Zoning Commission typically meets on the first Wednesday (and third, when applicable) of each month to rule on proposed amendments to the Boston Zoning Code. The Commission also votes on Institutional Master Plans and Planned Development Areas in accordance with Article 80. Anyone may petition the Zoning Commission to adopt a zoning change. Following community engagement, Planning Department staff bring zoning change recommendations to the BPDA Board of Directors for approval and then petition the Zoning Commission. Once the Zoning Commission adopts a zoning amendment, it is sent to the Mayor for approval and then is codified in the Zoning Code.

SOLD: 2 Charlesgate – purchased by Berklee – plans for use yet to be detailed.

ON HOLD: Fenway Center project was to be nearly 1 million square feet of lab space across two towers that would be supported by a deck stretching across the highway. With the deck nearly complete, The Boston Globe reports the Developer IQHQ will put the $1 billion project on hold until the real estate market for life sciences improves. 

HEALTH & SAFETY

FENWAY CARES Every other Wednesday, 3:30 pm ‘til done – next date: 12/3

Fenway Cares Food Distribution at 2 locations:

West Fenway – Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston (enter-Jersey)

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! 

The MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic 1-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates. Rotates between the West and East Fenway locations (see above). Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19 and flu vaccines.

Fenway Community Center on 12/3, and Morville House, 100 Norway St. on 12/17

Free Vaccine Clinics in Boston. Check the website for dates and locations.

Boston Police D4 Community News eMail  Add your email to the list 

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Promoting a vital and sustainable neighborhood

Dear Members and Friends:

Some important Breaking News!

Berklee Completes Purchase of 2 Charlesgate West

November 20, 2025: in a letter posted on their site, Berklee announces: 

The property presents an exciting and unique opportunity to address our acute need for more space in a way that connects our campus across the Fenway and increases Berklee’s visibility. Berklee has attempted to purchase 2 Charlesgate West several times over the last 20 years because of the strategic value it provides. 

The Holidays are Here!

This week, as we celebrate Thanksgiving, let’s look back a bit – at why this day gained national importance. The federal holiday was born of a desire to heal a divided nation during the Civil War. On October 3, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued this Thanksgiving Day proclamation to help unite a war-weary nation, and made a plea during the ongoing, horrific hostilities that the American people would: 

“with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.”

Lincoln was not the first President to issue a Thanksgiving proclamation, but his order set a precedent to “observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving” every year for decades to follow.

PARDON ME 

Abraham Lincoln is credited with the first turkey pardon. In 1863, the Lincolns received a live turkey for the family to feast on at Christmas. Young Tadadopted the bird, naming him Jack and teaching him to follow behind as he hiked around the White House grounds. On Christmas Eve, Lincoln told his son that Jack would no longer be a pet. “Jack was sent here to be killed and eaten for this very Christmas,” he told Tad, who answered, “I can’t help it. He’s a good turkey, and I don’t want him killed.” The boy argued that the bird had every right to live, and as always, the president gave in to his son, writing a reprieve for the turkey on a card and handing it to Tad. The modern tradition of a formal presidential turkey pardon began much later, with President George H.W. Bush in 1989, but the story of Lincoln’s act is the origin of the practice.