Bird flu is on the rise – read this posting and refrain from feeding, touching, or removing birds from parks.
Want to weigh in on the city’s participatory budgeting process? Read about and vote for your favorite allocation here.
Winter pruning comes to the Back Bay Fens – with over 900 trees getting care, thanks to the Emerald Necklace Conservancy.It’s not too early to start planning your February vacation week – check the city’s list of activities here.And Lunar New Year is here with a host of events – Happy Year of the Snake!
THE HALF WEEK AHEAD
Thursday, January 30, 5:30PM – 7:30PM Town Hall on Affordable Housing and Community Programs at Simmons University (300 The Fenway).
Fenway CDC will host the first of three town hall-style meetings Share your thoughts on affordable housing development, community organizing, and other programs.
Tuesday, March 11, 6:00 PM, Making History Gala, Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston. The year 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The Mass Historical Society is kicking off the celebration with a gala in March. Learn more at www.masshist.org/gala.
ONGOING
Community Survey – Your input welcome: Where does it flood in Boston? The City of Boston wants to hear from you about flood issues! Use this survey link to report past, current, and ongoing flooding problems across the City. The information you share will help Boston plan and prioritize projects to reduce flooding: Community-Based Flood Resilience and Green Infrastructure
BOSTON FAMILY DAYS – FREE ADMISSION TO MUSEUMS (AND MORE) Boston Family Days take place on the first two Sundays of each month from January 2025 to December 2026. REGISTER HERE.
Boston Parks and Recreation Fitness Series
Check this site for a wide variety of free offerings! Get Fit, Enjoy your parks!
Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 1-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
At the January 8 Boston City Council Meeting, Councilors Flynn, Fitzgerald and Murphy voted in favor of establishing an ethics committee at the Boston City Council. (The discussion starts at the 3:49:32 timestamp on the video recording.) With 8 votes opposed, the measure failed. Some councilors suggested the state ethics committee has jurisdiction. In December, Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson was arrested on federal public corruption charges, plead not-guilty and is due in court on Jan. 29.
Here we are, in the midst of a New England winter, both beautiful and fierce. Be prepared, and take care during the upcoming freeze!
Feeling a bit housebound? Need some exercise? Check out some virtual offers from Boston Parks and Recreation’s fitness series or the Age Strong Chair Yoga.
Boston Parks and Recreation has joined Bluesky, a new social media platform. Follow for updates on park events, programs, and initiatives. Join the conversation and get connected with community at: https://bsky.app/profile/parks.boston.gov
THE WEEK AHEAD
Monday, January 20 – Is both Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and Inauguration Day.
Boston is a special place to celebrate Dr. King’s life and legacy. Dr. King considered the city his second home, as it was in Boston that he met his wife, Coretta Scott King, and earned his Ph.D. in Theology from Boston University while living on Mass Ave.
The Roxbury Love Story mural, created by local artists @problak and @gofive, was unveiled in the fall of 2020. Roxbury is where Dr. King was an assistant minister at the Twelfth Baptist Church and where he and Coretta met. In 1965, Roxbury marked the starting point for the Northeast’s first Civil Rights March, a procession that culminated on Boston Common, where Dr. King delivered an inspiring and iconic speech, and where The Embrace monument is located. Designed by Hank Willis Thomas, an internationally acclaimed African-American conceptual artist, the memorial commemorates the legacies of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Coretta Scott King, and the many civil rights leaders who worked alongside them in Boston.
Inauguration Day: Since 1901, and in accordance with the 20th Amendment of the United States Constitution, the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) has been responsible for the planning and execution of the Inaugural Ceremonies of the President-elect and Vice President-elect of the United States at the Capitol. For a listing of the inauguration events, check this site.
Tuesday, January 21, 5:00 – 7:00 PM; Boston Civic Design Commission [BCDC] Design Committee Meeting (virtual)
BCDC meeting to discuss the public realm impacts of major projects currently under review. Committee meetings are open to the public. Two major projects being discussed are at
The Project is anticipated to involve the demolition of the existing Joslin Diabetes Center Building and the construction of a new approximately 14-story building containing approximately 300 inpatient beds and 20 observation beds for Dana Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI), together with clinical support space on lower floors for Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, a below-grade inpatient imaging department for DFCI and a below-grade garage containing approximately 250 accessory vehicle parking spaces.
Northeastern owns or leases 101 buildings within the City of Boston, totaling approximately 8.8 million square feet. This IMPNF/PNF proposes eight redevelopment sites, six of which were included in Northeastern’s 2013 IMP but were not constructed. These eight redevelopment sites total approximately 2.2 million SF of new construction. In addition to these sites, Northeastern has identified at least nine buildings in need of significant renovations and capital renewal efforts within its existing footprint in Boston.
How to participate: please register in advance to join the meeting
Thursday, January 23, 6:00 – 7:30 pm, 69-81 Kilmarnock Street Public Meeting (virtual) City of Boston Planning will host this virtual meeting. 69 Kilmarnock Street LLC, an affiliate of Samuels & Associates, has requested to make changes to the “West Site” of the previously approved 60 Kilmarnock Street project. The proposed changes will include the removal of 58 parking spaces, increasing the number of IDP units, and creating two residential components that will include multifamily housing and patient-family housing for use by Boston Children’s Hospital. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the public.
How to participate: Use the following link to register for the meeting: http://bit.ly/3C4MdnQ Meeting ID: 161 758 5476 Toll-Free Call-in Number: 833.568.8864
UPCOMING
Thursday, January 30, 5:30PM – 7:30PM Town Hall on Affordable Housing and Community Programs at Simmons University (300 The Fenway).
Fenway CDC will host the first of three town hall-style meetings Share your thoughts on affordable housing development, community organizing, and other programs.
Tuesday, March 11, 6:00 PM, Making History Gala, Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston. The year 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The Mass Historical Society is kicking off the celebration with a gala in March. Learn more at www.masshist.org/gala.
ONGOING
Community Survey – Your input welcome: Where does it flood in Boston? The City of Boston wants to hear from you about flood issues! Use this survey link to report past, current, and ongoing flooding problems across the City. The information you share will help Boston plan and prioritize projects to reduce flooding: Community-Based Flood Resilience and Green Infrastructure
.
BOSTON FAMILY DAYS – FREE ADMISSION TO MUSEUMS (AND MORE) Boston Family Days take place on the first two Sundays of each month from January 2025 to December 2026. REGISTER HERE.
Mondays, 9-10 a.m., Age Strong Chair Yoga (virtual) Join the City of Boston sponsored free virtual class. Repeats weekly through June 16, 2025.
Boston Parks and Recreation Fitness Series
Check this site for a wide variety of free offerings! Get Fit, Enjoy your parks!
Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 1-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
At the January 8 Boston City Council Meeting, Councilors Flynn, Fitzgerald and Murphy voted in favor of establishing an ethics committee at the Boston City Council. (The discussion starts at the 3:49:32 timestamp on the video recording.) With 8 votes opposed, the measure failed. Some councilors suggested the state ethics committee has jurisdiction. In December, Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson was arrested on federal public corruption charges, plead not-guilty and is due in court on Jan. 29.
This week, the horrible LA Fires are dominating the news. Sadly, scammers are already taking advantage of people’s goodwill. Before making a donation, Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell suggests verifying organizations with websites like Charity Navigator and the Better Business Bureau. Or start with a trusted charity you have used before.
In FCA News: we are happy to announce the recent completion of repairs to the Johnson Memorial Gates with the support of the George B. Henderson Foundation, the City of Boston, and local partners. For more details on this project, including historic and current photos, please check out our FaceBook posting at https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Aqj8oq9LD/
Here in the Fenway, we’re experiencing New England winter this week. But as many old-timers will tell you, if you don’t like the weather, just wait a minute. A note of caution, with fluctuating temperatures, please do not assume that ice on the Muddy River is safe to walk on. It takes a minimum of 4-inches of clear ice to support one person. For more details and guidance on ice safety, check this Mass.gov site on ice strength. Ice formed over flowing water and currents is often more dangerous. Please, enjoy winter’s beauty from a safe vantage point.
THE WEEK AHEAD
Wednesday, January 15, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution (full details in ONGOING section below)
January Events hosted by the Charles River Watershed Association [CRWA]
Since 1965, the CRWA has advocated for a better Charles River watershed using science, advocacy, and the law in developing science-based strategies to increase resilience, protect public health, and promote environmental equity as we face a changing climate. This week CRWA hosts two informative events relevant to the Fenway. Events are free. Titles below link to the CRWA website with full details.
Boston is a special place to celebrate Dr. King’s life and legacy. Dr. King considered the city his second home, as it was in Boston that he met his wife, Coretta Scott King, and earned his Ph.D. in Theology from Boston University while living on Mass Ave.
The Roxbury Love Story mural, created by local artists @problak and @gofive, was unveiled in the fall of 2020. Roxbury is where Dr. King was an assistant minister at the Twelfth Baptist Church and where he and Coretta met. In 1965, Roxbury marked the starting point for the Northeast’s first Civil Rights March, a procession that culminated on Boston Common, where Dr. King delivered an inspiring and iconic speech, and where The Embrace monument is located. Designed by Hank Willis Thomas, an internationally acclaimed African-American conceptual artist, the memorial commemorates the legacies of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Coretta Scott King, and the many civil rights leaders who worked alongside them in Boston.
Thursday, January 30, 5:30PM – 7:30PM Town Hall on Affordable Housing and Community Programs at Simmons University (300 The Fenway).
Fenway CDC will host the first of three town hall-style meetings Share your thoughts on affordable housing development, community organizing, and other programs.
Tuesday, March 11, 2025 | 6:00 PM, Making History Gala, Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston. The year 2025 marks the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The Mass Historical Society is kicking off the celebration with a gala in March. Learn more at www.masshist.org/gala.
ONGOING
BOSTON FAMILY DAYS – FREE ADMISSION TO MUSEUMS (AND MORE) Boston Family Days take place on the first two Sundays of each month from January 2025 to December 2026. REGISTER HERE.
Mondays, 9-10 a.m., Age Strong Chair Yoga (virtual) Join the City of Boston sponsored free virtual class. Repeats weekly through June 16, 2025.
Boston Parks and Recreation Fitness Series
Check this site for a wide variety of free offerings! Get Fit, Enjoy your parks!
Arts Offerings – we’re fortunate to live amidst world-class cultural offerings… find your bliss at any one of these events:
New England Conservatory NEC (here’s just one of many of their concerts):
Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 1-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
At the January 8 Boston City Council Meeting, Councilors Flynn, Fitzgerald and Murphy voted in favor of establishing an ethics committee at the Boston City Council. (The discussion starts at the 3:49:32 timestamp on the video recording.) With 8 votes opposed, the measure failed. Some councilors suggested the state ethics committee has jurisdiction. In December, Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson was arrested on federal public corruption charges, plead not-guilty and is due in court on Jan. 29.
“With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us. He saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe” – President Joe Biden
President Biden has declared January 9 a National Day of Mourning and called on “people of the world who share our grief to join us in this solemn observance.”
“In our democracy, the only title higher and more powerful than that of president is the title of citizen. It is every citizen’s right and duty to help shape the future legacy of our nation.”
Wednesday, January 8, noon Boston City Council Meeting at City Hall (ways to watch or attend)– BOSTON CITY COUNCIL: On Friday, December 6, Tania Fernandes Anderson, City Councilor District 7, was arrested on federal public corruption charges. The Councilor plead not guilty, announced she has no plans to resign, and attended the last council meeting of 2024 on December 11th. Councilors Flynn, Fitzgerald and Murphy offered an order for a hearing to establish an ethics committee at the Boston City Council, the offer was tabled until the next meeting on January 8, 2025 at noon.
Official state funeral to be held in Washington D.C. for James Earl Carter, Jr., 39th President of the United States.
Friday, January 10, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m., Fenway-Kenmore Liaison Office Hours at Newsfeed Cafe, 700 Boylston Street
Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Mission Hill and Fenway-Kenmore Coffee Hours are hosted by your neighborhood liaison, Maccon Bonner.
LAST CHANCE to dispose of (compost) your Christmas tree – place your tree (without lights, ornaments or tinsel) either curbside or next to your normal trash/dumpster pickup location THIS WEEK. See the city trash schedule here.
UPCOMING
BOSTON FAMILY DAYS – FREE ADMISSION TO MUSEUMS (AND MORE) STARTS JAN 5TH, 2025
Experience the power of art and realize the importance of access for everyone. REGISTER HERE.
Please take a moment to read some essential tips for experiencing Boston Family Days:
On Boston Family Days, all Boston school-aged children and two of their guests will gain free admission to participating institutions.
Boston Family Days take place on the first two Sundays of each month from January 2025 to December 2026.
The first two dates are Sunday, January 5 and Sunday, January 12.
To participate, families must sign up directly with the City of Boston. The City will then send them a Program pass the week before their selected date. Families are encouraged to pre-register and reserve tickets online.
Boston Public Schools or Boston Pre-K students will be automatically enrolled in this program. BPS families will receive their Boston Family Days pass directly via email from BPS.
The year 2025 will mark the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The Mass Historical Society is kicking off the celebration with a gala in March. Making History Gala, Tuesday, March 11, 2025 | 6:00 PM. Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston. Learn more at www.masshist.org/gala.
ONGOING
Mondays, 9-10 a.m., Age Strong Chair Yoga (virtual) Join the City of Boston sponsored free virtual class. Repeats weekly through June 16, 2025.
Boston Parks and Recreation Fitness Series
Check this site for a wide variety of free offerings! Get Fit, Enjoy your parks!
Arts Offerings – we’re fortunate to live amidst world-class cultural offerings… find your bliss at any one of these events:
New England Conservatory NEC (here’s just one of many of their concerts):
Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 2-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
We’ll be back next week with a more local focus, meanwhile, we wish you a very good New Year.
Some traditions focus on letting the past go, or bringing good fortune and luck into the future, exchanging meaningful symbolic gifts, or just making a lot of noise and, of course, fire and fireworks! Here are two hot takes on old traditions:
Panama: Burning away the old year’s grudges
Panamanians bid adieu to the past by setting ablaze effigies representing their year’s grievances. This cathartic ritual symbolizes letting go of negative experiences and embracing the fresh start that the new year brings. The burning of the effigies is a symbolic act of letting go.
Germany: Molten lead predicts the future
Germans turn to molten lead for a glimpse into their future. On New Year’s Eve, they melt lead into various shapes, and the resulting forms are interpreted to predict events in the year ahead.
Best way to get about, take the T! FREE ON NEW YEAR’S EVE
Subway runs on a regular weekday schedule until 3 PM. Service increases after 3 PM and will be extended by one hour, ending around 2:30 AM.
Bus, ferry, and The RIDE run on a regular weekday schedule.
Commuter Rail will run on a regular weekday schedule, with the last trains departing at 12:30 AM. No bikes will be allowed after 8PM.
Note: Starting at 8 PM on December 31, subway, bus, and The RIDE will be fare-free. Commuter Rail service will be free on trains that arrive or depart North/South Station from 8 PM through end of service.
Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 2-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
DEVELOPING NEWS – BOSTON CITY COUNCIL: On Friday, December 6, Tania Fernandes Anderson, City Councilor District 7, was arrested on federal public corruption charges. (District 7 consists of East Fenway, Roxbury, Dorchester, and part of the South End.) The second term Councilor pleaded not guilty, announced she has no plans to resign, and attended the last council meeting of 2024 on December 11th. Councilors Flynn, Fitzgerald and Murphy offered an order for a hearing to establish an ethics committee at the Boston City Council, the offer was tabled until the next meeting on January 8, 2025 at noon. City Council terms are two years. The next election is November 2025.
Happy Holidays to all! We hope you are enjoying the season and taking time to meet with friends, family and community. Wishing you the very best this season.
Holiday Events throughout the city
The holidays are here, and in Boston, that means it’s time for holiday traditions like Snowport or the Boston Common tree lighting. This year, a new winter festival is joining the city’s lineup of holiday happenings. Located in Boston’s Charlestown neighborhood, Winter Fest transforms Hood Park into a two-acre winter wonderland – making it the biggest holiday attraction in the city. With dazzling lights, immersive experiences and plenty of family-friendly festive activities, Winter Fest is the perfect holiday outing for all to enjoy. To cap it all off… First Night!
Holiday Giving
Now through 12/21, Winter Clothing Drivedrop off at Fenway Community Center.
On behalf of the Boston Public Health Commission, the Fenway Civic Association and the Fenway Community Center invite you to donate new or gently used clean clothing and footwear during the Winter Clothing Drive, drop off dates and times on the flyer below.
Now through 12/28, The Fenway Chalet – is donating a portion of their profits to FENWAY CARES – stop by for a beverage, while you’re there for a holiday tree or wreath! Heated tent for comfort. (flyer below)
Volunteers are welcome to sign up for all dates and both locations! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 2-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
DEVELOPING NEWS – BOSTON CITY COUNCIL: On Friday, December 6, Tania Fernandes Anderson, City Councilor District 7, was arrested on federal public corruption charges. (District 7 consists of East Fenway, Roxbury, Dorchester, and part of the South End.) The second term Councilor has pleaded not guilty, announced she has no plans to resign, and attended the last council meeting of 2024 on December 11th. Councilors Flynn, Fitzgerald and Murphy offered an order for a hearing to establish an ethics committee at the Boston City Council, the offer was tabled until the next meeting in January. City Council terms are two years. The next election is November 2025.
We loved seeing you at the Fenway Tree Lighting event!
Thanks to ReprezentU LLC for capturing our light and joy in many wonderful photos below!
And thanks to the Mayor’s Office for the great shots below, we are happy to have a phenomenal group of Fenway Friends who brought their Holiday Spirit!!!
FCA’s Annual Holiday Tree Lightingwas a heartwarming event on a cold but festive evening! The community turned outwell dressed and brightly lit to welcome Mayor Wu, our elected officials, the Boston Children’s Choir, and Wallie & Tessie, With great refreshments and event support from local business sponsors. We are truly enriched by great community engagement, it’s a joy to see everyone having a good time together! Thanks to all who attended and supported this event.
Now through 12/13, Northeastern University Latinx Center’sHoliday Toy Drive drop off at 1175 Tremont Street, BOS MA 02120 Donations will go to the Tobin Community Center, Alice Heyward Taylor Apartments, and Villa Victoria Inquilinos. More details on nuengaged Instagram.
Now through 12/21, Winter Clothing Drivedrop off at Fenway Community Center.
On behalf of the Boston Public Health Commission, the Fenway Civic Association and the Fenway Community Center invite you to donate new or gently used clean clothing and footwear during the Winter Clothing Drive, drop off dates and times on the flyer below.
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DEVELOPING NEWS – BOSTON CITY COUNCIL: Friday, December 6, Tania Fernandes Anderson, City Councilor District 7, arrested on federal public corruption charges. (District 7 consists of East Fenway, Roxbury, Dorchester, and part of the South End.) We will be following the developments, and how it relates to our district.
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UPCOMING
Saturday, December 14, 11 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Fourth Annual Army-Navy Football Game, at Roberto Clemente Field, 400 The Fenway.
Saturday, December 14, 2:00-5:00 pm, Holiday Market at the Fenway Community Center. Local artists and craftspeople will sell their wares.
ONGOING
Mondays, 9-10 a.m., Age Strong Chair Yoga (virtual) Join the City of Boston sponsored free virtual class. Repeats weekly through June 16, 2025.
Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution
Next date: 12/18 – 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! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 2-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
Join Mayor Wu, Fenway representatives, and neighbors at the annual tree lighting this Wednesday (details below). This event keeps growing in popularity! We are super grateful to the wonderful sponsor organizations who donate their time, labor, food and resources to the community. The Fenway Civic Association is proud to bring it all together – and we value the volunteers who make this happen – won’t you join us and give an hour or two to share the cheer?! Join our volunteer crew to hand out refreshments, and meet and greet your neighbors (we need 8 more people!) Sign up here:Fenway Tree Lighting Volunteer Form.
This month, there will be special holiday donation drives at the Fenway Community Center and at SMFA, fundraising for Fenway Cares at The Fenway Chalet, and a local holiday crafts sale. Open Newbury Streethas announced two December dates: 12/1 and 12/8.
Wednesday, December 4, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., FCA’s Annual Holiday Tree LightingHosted outside of the Kelleher Rose Garden, across from 77 Park Drive.
6 PM – The official Fenway Tree Lighting begins!Join Mayor Wu, Fenway representatives, and neighbors, enjoy performances fromBoston Children’s Chorus, and celebrate the holiday season. Cider, cocoa, and refreshments will be served!
6:45 PM – Following the tree lighting, join in a magical luminary walk down Park Drive toThe Fenway Tree Farm located at The Station.
7 PM – Cheers for a cause at The Fenway Chalet at The Station powered by Cisco Brewers or browse holiday greenery at The Fenway Tree Farm. Cisco will be serving their award-winning craft beer, wine, spirits, and wood-fired pizza. This season, a portion of the proceeds will benefitFenway Cares, an initiative that first came together in March 2020 as six local Fenway neighborhood organizations joined forces to address food insecurity in The Fenway and have since distributed over 30,000 bags of free produce to neighbors in need.
This event is free, open to the public, and happens rain or shine. Perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to soak in the holiday spirit.
Pre-Event Family Activities at Fenway Community Center
Join neighbors at theFenway Community Center for a festive kick off to the Tree Lighting from 4:30-5:45pm, where families can make holiday crafts, spend time with neighbors, and take photos with the Red Sox’s Wally and Tessie.
In the Spirit of Giving…
Now through 12/21, Winter Clothing Drive drop off at Fenway Community Center.
On behalf of the Boston Public Health Commission, the Fenway Civic Association and the Fenway Community Center invite you to donate new or gently used clean clothing and footwear during the Winter Clothing Drive, drop off dates and times on the flyer below.
Now through 12/6, TOYS FOR TOTS DRIVE drop off at TuftSMFA- 230 The Fenway. Channel your inner Santa Claus by contributing to the Toys for Tots Drive. Tufts University’s Department of Public Safety will be collecting donations of new and unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots. Not sure what to get? View this WISH LIST of recommended toys. Drop box at Boston/SMFA Campus, main entrance lobby, 230 The Fenway.
LOCAL TRAVEL was just made a little easier withMBTA Go, the new official app for live, public transit information in Greater Boston. Check live arrival times, track your vehicle, and learn about the latest service disruptions. (for iPhones, Android version coming in February). Get the app, catch that ride!
For more events, read ahead.
THE WEEK AHEAD
Wednesday, December 4, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., FCA’s Annual Holiday Tree LightingHosted outside of the Kelleher Rose Garden, across from 77 Park Drive.
The School of Museum of Fine Art (SMFA) Sale has been the leading contemporary art sale in New England since its creation in 1978. Offering a diverse collection of works across all mediums, the sale showcases nearly six decades of immensely talented students, alumni, faculty, and friends of SMFA and raises critical funds to support the financial aid needs of current SMFA students. RSVP here to attend the opening celebration on Friday, 12/6 at 6pm.
UPCOMING
Saturday, December 14, 11 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Fourth Annual Army-Navy Football Game, at Roberto Clemente Field, 400 The Fenway.
Saturday, December 14, 2:00-5:00 pm, Holiday Market at the Fenway Community Center. Local artists and craftspeople will sell their wares.
ONGOING
Mondays, 9-10 a.m., Age Strong Chair Yoga (virtual) Join the City of Boston sponsored free virtual class. Repeats weekly through June 16, 2025.
Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution
Next date: 12/4 – 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! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 2-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
A time to be thankful for family, friends and community. On Friday, if you’re in the Back Bay Fens – walk off that meal and drop in to the Shattuck Visitor Center (across from the MFA) for some complimentary cider and check out this lovely resource.
Our New England Thanksgiving tradition dates back 400 years.
The Pilgrim’s first Thanksgiving was documented in a letter dated December, 1621 by Edward Winslow, one of 102 people aboard the Mayflower. By March of 1621, the pilgrims had entered into a treaty of peace and protection with the great Chief Massasoit (born 1580 or 1581 in Montaup, Bristol, Rhode Island), leader of theWampanoagTribe, allowing the pilgrims to live in their territory. By the fall, 50 Pilgrims had perished, leaving 22 men, 5 women, and 25 children to celebrate the first harvest Thanksgiving with the Wampanoag. Massasoit is credited with helping the Pilgrims survive their early years in New England.
Wampanoag history dates back at least 12,000 years.
Now through 12/21, Winter Clothing Drive drop off at Fenway Community Center.
On behalf of the Boston Public Health Commission, the Fenway Civic Association and the Fenway Community Center invite you to donate new or gently used clean clothing and footwear during the Winter Clothing Drive, drop off dates and times on the flyer below.
Now through 12/6, TOYS FOR TOTS DRIVE drop off at TuftSMFA- 230 The Fenway. Channel your inner Santa Claus by contributing to the Toys for Tots Drive. Tufts University’s Department of Public Safety will be collecting donations of new and unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots. Not sure what to get? View this WISH LIST of recommended toys. Drop box at Boston/SMFA Campus, main entrance lobby, 230 The Fenway.
LOCAL TRAVEL was just made a little easier withMBTA Go, the new official app for live, public transit information in Greater Boston. Check live arrival times, track your vehicle, and learn about the latest service disruptions. (for iPhones, Android version coming in February). Get the app, catch that ride!
For more events, read ahead.
THE WEEK AHEAD
*DELAYED Tuesday, November 26, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.,CITY HALL ON THE GO: FENWAY-KENMORE Stopping by the new Edgerly Plaza by Whole Foods on Westland Ave *Schedule delayed due to equipment challenges, stay tuned for a new date!
Thursday, November 28, Thanksgiving Day
What’s open, what’s closed? It’s best to call and check before you go… but in general, CLOSED: Banks, Stock market, Municipal, city, state, federal offices, Libraries, Schools, Post Offices and home delivery, liquor stores
OPEN (but call to confirm); Movies, some restaurants, some convenience stores
MIGHT BE OPEN – CALL FIRST! Most retail and grocery stores.
PARKING: Meters are free with no time limit.
Daytime street cleaning canceled; overnight street cleaning is on a normal schedule.
TRASH: Trash and recycling pickups are delayed in some neighborhoods during the holiday week. To check your schedule, use the Trash Day app.
Friday, November 29, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m –Shattuck Visitor Center Back Bay Fens at 125 the Fenway, across from the MFA. Open Day After Thanksgiving
(Closed Thanksgiving) All are invited to stop by on Friday from 10AM to 4PM for some hot cider and conversation, with Emerald Necklace Conservancy President Karen Mauney-Brodek! The visitor center is both an educational resource about the parks and a gathering place for the community. A hub of activity, you’ll find a variety of free things to do in Boston parks at the Shattuck Visitor Center — from walking tours to talks and exhibits.
UPCOMING
Wednesday, December 4, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., FCA’s Annual Holiday Tree LightingHosted outside of the Kelleher Rose Garden, across from 77 Park Drive.
6 PM – The official Fenway Tree Lighting begins! Hear from elected officials and neighborhood representatives, enjoy performances fromBoston Children’s Chorus, and celebrate the holiday season with neighbors. Cider, cocoa, and refreshments will be served!
6:45 PM – Following the tree lighting, join in a magical luminary walk down Park Drive toThe Fenway Tree Farm located at The Station.
7 PM – Cheers for a cause at The Fenway Chalet at The Station powered by Cisco Brewers or browse holiday greenery at The Fenway Tree Farm. Cisco will be serving their award-winning craft beer, wine, spirits, and wood-fired pizza. This season, a portion of the proceeds will benefit Fenway Cares, an initiative that first came together in March 2020 as six local Fenway neighborhood organizations joined forces to address food insecurity in The Fenway and have since distributed over 30,000 bags of free produce to neighbors in need.
This event is free, open to the public, and happening rain or shine. Perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to soak in the holiday spirit.
Pre-Event Family Activities at Fenway Community Center
Join neighbors at theFenway Community Center for a festive kick off to the Tree Lighting from 4:30-5:45pm, where families can make holiday crafts, spend time with neighbors, and take photos with the Red Sox’s Wally and Tessie.
The School of Museum of Fine Art (SMFA) Sale is just a few weeks away! The SMFA Art Sale has been the leading contemporary art sale in New England since its creation in 1978. Offering a diverse collection of works across all mediums, the sale showcases nearly six decades of immensely talented students, alumni, faculty, and friends of SMFA and raises critical funds to support the financial aid needs of current SMFA students. RSVP here to attend the opening celebration on Friday, 12/6 at 6pm.
Saturday, December 14, 11 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Fourth Annual Army-Navy Football Game, at Roberto Clemente Field, 400 The Fenway.
ONGOING
Mondays, 9-10 a.m., Age Strong Chair Yoga (virtual zoom class) Join the City of Boston sponsoredfree Age Strong Chair Yoga virtual class. Repeats weekly on Mondays through June 16, 2025.
Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution
Next date: 12/4 – 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! Volunteer
MGH/MBG Community Care Health Clinic – 2-5 p.m. on Fenway Cares dates, East Fenway, in Morville House, 100 Norway Street. Offerings may include blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia vaccines.
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Fenway Civic Association 