Fenway Civic Association

Dear Members and Friends:

March is Women’s History Month! Every day is an opportunity to make history! 

History is indeed being made daily since the new presidential administration. Last week brought an onslaught of activity that will impact our city in countless ways. Executive actions calling for funding cuts in health and education, mass firings of federal employees, and a focus on deporting immigrants directly impacts on our local economy.  

On March 5, 2025, Mayor Michelle Wu testified before the U.S. House Oversight Committee on Boton’s immigration policies in Washington, D.C., alongside mayors from Denver, Chicago, and New York, read her opening statement here.  And later this month is the Mayor’s State of the City Address, 7 pm, Wednesday, March 19, livestreamed here. 

On March 6th, our local elected officials held a Town Hall on “What’s Next?” in responding to the new federal administration. Discussions centered on the importance of civic engagement and specific ways citizens can affect change. If you are not already connected to your legislators, start here to find your reps based on your address: Find and contact elected officials | USAGov. Make your voice heard. Our power is in our voice, our vote, and our choices. We encourage you to be informed.

Meanwhile, Mother Nature “Marches” on… Spring has certainly come “in like a lion’… we can only hope it “leaves like a lamb.”

Need a break? Thanks to a generous grant from Berklee College of Music, Fenway Civic Association is partnering with the City of Boston Streets Cabinet to bring spring activation to Edgerly Plaza this March and April! Look for music, arts, and more in the plaza – watch this space: https://www.boston.gov/new-edgerly-plaza  

Have ideas about what you’d like to see at the plaza? Take this short survey to share your vision with the City!

Need community? Join us at the Fenway Civic Association Annual Meeting on Thursday, March 27th – 6-8 pm at The 521 Overlook at Fenway Park – details below. 

THE WEEK AHEAD

No scheduled events – you get a break!

UPCOMING

Monday, March 17 is City of Boston Holiday! You’re probably thinking, wow, St. Patrick’s Day, yay! Well, actually, it’s for Evacuation Day – celebrating the day in 1776 when Bostonians kicked out (evacuated!) the last loyalists to a king we ever tolerated! Watch a narrated presentation on the historic struggle of Evacuation Day. Great revolutionary leaders and patriots including Knox and Washington made Boston the cradle of democracy. We’re still loud and proud about it. 

Thursday, March 20  4:30-6:30 PM, Back Bay Fens Tree Walk (Rain Date March 21) meet at the Shattuck Visitor Center, 125 The Fenway

Join Jack Schleifer, Field Operations Manager for the Emerald Necklace Conservancy, on a guided walk of the Back Bay Fens and learn about the ENC’s pruning work keeping 900+ trees healthy and growing strong! Learn more and register here

Friday, March 21, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Fenway/Kenmore Office Hour

Fenway Community Center 1282 Boylston Street

Join Maccon Bonner’s office hour to receive support connecting with City departments, addressing any concerns or just to say hello. 

Wednesday, March 24, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Fenway Transportation Action Plan Meeting, Fenway Community Center (FCC)

This meeting will be a fully in-person meeting at the FCC. Staff will walk through the newly released Fenway Transportation Action Plan interactive StoryMap, discuss the vision for Fenway’s transportation future, and gather feedback to shape the Action Plan. Add your voice to the discussion!

Thursday, March 27th -6-8 p.m., Fenway Civic Association’s Annual Meeting at the 521 Overlook at Fenway Park, 14 Lansdowne Street.

Social time from 6-6:30 p.m. will be followed by a brief business meeting, and then a special presentation by Interim Parks Commissioner Liza Meyer: “Understanding Shadow Impacts on Parkland”

The program will discuss efforts underway by the Boston Parks Department, the Boston Planning Department, and a stakeholder advisory committee to define the sunlight needs of our parks and inform guidelines for sunlight access that support the health of trees and plants and the comfort and enjoyment of people who use the parks. 

We look forward to seeing you there! (see flyer)

Friday, March 28, 9 am – Office Hour- Henry Santana, Boston City Councilor At-Large

Union Square Donuts inside TimeOut Market at 401 Park Dr, Boston, MA 02215

RSVP here for the Fenway Office Hour

Taxes due April 15th! Need help? Contact the Boston Tax Help Coalition (BTHC)

ONGOING 

The Fenway’s Mass Historical Society is commemorating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the American Revolution with ongoing exhibitions, programs, educational resources, digital content and more:  America’s 250th Anniversay

SURVEYS AND ACTION PLANS

Fenway Transportation Action Plan

City of Boston’s Anti-Displacement Initiative 

Community-Based Flood Resilience and Green Infrastructure

Boston Rodent Action Plan (BRAP) 

ONGOING ARTS & RECREATION

New England Conservatory – offers free, open to the public performances 

Boston Family Pass– Free admission to museums, zoo, aquarium and more!

Boston Parks and Recreation Fitness Series virtual and live events

ArtsBoston calendar a citywide listing of cultural events

FENWAY CARES Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m. ’til done, Next date: 3/12

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! 

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.

Councilor Fernandes Anderson federal public corruption case was due in court on March 5. We’re looking for an update on this situation.

DEVELOPMENTS BY STATUS:

“Under Review”:  

69-81 Kilmarnock Street, 409 Huntington Avenue, 262 St. Botolph St., 142-146 St. Mary’s Street 

“Board Approved”:

Kenmore Hotel, Fenway Corners (West), Fenway Corners (North), Fenway Center, Boston University – Warren Towers Renovation, 819 Beacon Street, 

601 Newbury Street, 20 Charlesgate West, 2 Charlesgate West, 165 Park Drive, 1400 Boylston Street, 1241 Boylston Street,  112-114 Queensberry St, 109 Brookline Avenue

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Dear Members and Friends:

March is Women’s History Month!

What began as a week’s celebration, extended to a month in 1987. This year’s theme for Women’s History Month is “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.” Meet Boston has listed an array of events around Boston here: Women’s History Month Events | 2025, including gatherings, lectures, art events, historic walks & talks, and celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8th. International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality.

Check out the BPL’s special programming for Women’s History Month

Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women mission is to advance women toward full equality in all areas of life and to promote rights and opportunities for all women. Events from February 25 – April 1 – MCSW are focused on advocacy and legislation. Also, check their site for research and status reports.

History of Women in Massachusetts Government Massachusetts has strong female leadership, but are still are a minority in government offices.

Who’s making history now? Women are prominently listed in  The 150 Most Influential Bostonians in 2024

Every day is an opportunity to make history! Happy Women’s History Month.

THURSDAY, MARCH 27TH – SAVE THE DATE for Fenway Civic Association’s Annual Meeting! details below, flyer attached. We’re looking forward to seeing you!!

THE WEEK AHEAD

Tuesday, March 4, 6 – 7:30 p.m. New Bluebikes Stations: Fenway and Mission Hill Open House Fenway Community Center | 1282 Boylston Street

Thursday, March 6, 6- 8 p.m., ​​”What’s Next?” Town Hall Discussion with elected officials to discuss the new federal administration. To register, please sign up via Eventbrite here. To submit a question, please use the Google Form here. (see flyer)

Sunday, March 9, 2 a.m. Daylight Savings time begins, with clocks rolling forward one hour at 2 a.m..

Sunday, March 9, 3pm, Remembrance Concert at Kaji Aso Studio, featuring

Sumie Kaneko, koto & shamisen – details on their website! Scroll down on their site to see current and future arts offerings, free and open to the public.

UPCOMING

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.

Friday, March 21, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Fenway/Kenmore Office Hour

Fenway Community Center 1282 Boylston Street

Join Maccon Bonner’s office hour to receive support connecting with City departments, addressing any concerns or just to say hello. 

Public MeetingNEW DATE

Wednesday, March 24, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Fenway Transportation Action Plan Meeting,  Fenway Community Center. The meeting was originally scheduled for March 19, 2025, but is being rescheduled due to the Mayor’s State of the City Address taking place on March 19. In addition to the schedule change, this meeting will now be a fully in-person meeting at the Fenway Community Center. Staff will walk through the newly released Fenway Transportation Action Plan interactive StoryMap, discuss the vision for Fenway’s transportation future, and gather feedback to shape the Action Plan. Add your voice to the discussion!

Thursday, March 27th -6-8 p.m., Fenway Civic Association’s Annual Meeting at the 521 Overlook at Fenway Park, 14 Lansdowne Street.. Social time from 6-6:30 p.m., followed by a brief business meeting, then a special presentation by Interim Parks Commissioner Liza Meyer: “Understanding Shadow Impacts on Parkland.” The program will discuss efforts underway by the Boston Parks Department, the Boston Planning Department, and a stakeholder advisory committee to define the sunlight needs of our parks and inform guidelines for sunlight access that support the health of trees and plants and the comfort and enjoyment of people who use the parks. We look forward to seeing you there! (see flyer)

Friday, March 28, 9 am – Office Hour- Henry Santana, Boston City Councilor At-Large

Union Square Donuts inside TimeOut Market at 401 Park Dr, Boston, MA 02215

RSVP here for the Fenway Office Hour

Taxes due on or before April 15th! Need help filing? For more information on the Boston Tax Help Coalition (BTHC) tax preparation and filing services for Boston area residents please visit this website.

ONGOING – SURVEYS AND ACTION PLANS

Fenway Transportation Action Plan

City of Boston’s Anti-Displacement Initiative

Anti-Displacement Community survey.

Community Survey – Your input welcome: Where does it flood in Boston?  Community-Based Flood Resilience and Green Infrastructure

The Boston Rodent Action Plan (BRAP) 

ONGOING

New England Conservatory – offers free, open to the public performances by their students. With over 500+ faculty from the world’s biggest stages guiding students from the practice room to the performance hall NEC is a phenomenal gem in our neighborhood. Check their calendar and find your inspiration – performances are both live and streaming; Performances and Events at NEC – Calendar 

Boston Family Pass– Free admission to museums, zoo, aquarium and more!

Boston Parks and Recreation Fitness Series virtual and live events

ArtsBoston calendar a citywide listing of cultural events

FENWAY CARES 

Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m. ’til done, Next date: 3/12

Fenway Cares Food Distribution at 2 locations:

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

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Food Distributions

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.

COUNCIL NEWS Boston City Council news

Councilor Fernandes Anderson – UPDATE

In December, Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson was arrested on federal public corruption charges, pleaded not-guilty and was due in court on Jan. 29, however, this court date was pushed out to March 5.

DEVELOPMENTS BY STATUS:

“Under Review”:  

69-81 Kilmarnock Street, 409 Huntington Avenue, 262 St. Botolph St., 142-146 St. Mary’s Street 

“Board Approved”:

Kenmore Hotel, Fenway Corners (West), Fenway Corners (North), Fenway Center, Boston University – Warren Towers Renovation, 819 Beacon Street, 

601 Newbury Street, 20 Charlesgate West, 2 Charlesgate West, 165 Park Drive, 1400 Boylston Street, 1241 Boylston Street,  112-114 Queensberry St, 109 Brookline Avenue

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Fenway Civic AssociationUpdates from the Fenway Civic Association

Promoting a vital and sustainable neighborhood

Dear Members and Friends:

FEBRUARY is winding down… 

BLACK HISTORY MONTH – an amazing array of activities!

Black History month in Boston and Guide To Black Boston 

Boston Public Library Celebrates Black History month 

Black History Month Celebration Schedule | Museum of Science 

Embrace Boston Digital Experience 

City of Boston Black History events  

AllEvents Boston entertainment listings

No Fenway development meetings this week, so with a lot of heaviness elsewhere, you can enjoy a light week at the city.
Our big announcement is that runner Chelsea Lauder is running the 129th Boston Marathon to raise funds for Fenway Cares. Please read the below message and support Chelsea’s race today!

We’re excited to have Chelsea Lauder running the 129th Boston Marathon this April to raise funds for Fenway Cares! Thanks to CITGO for extending this opportunity and to Chelsea for putting in the miles and hard work to provide food to residents in need.

Please consider supporting Chelsea and Fenway Cares by donating and sharing this fundraiser! Links to donate at: https://tinyurl.com/FenwayCares-Marathon2025

To learn more about Fenway Cares and ways to support us, visit: https://fenwaycommunitycenter.org/fenway-cares/

Fenway Cares is an all-volunteer collaborative, working to provide free food to neighbors through bi-weekly distributions of fresh produce. Collaborative members are: Audubon Circle Neighborhood Association, Fenway Culture Boston, Fenway Civic Association, Fenway Community Center, Fenway Community Development Corporation, and Operation P.E.A.C.E.

UPCOMING
Sunday March 9 and March 16th, 3 p.m. Concerts at Kaji Aso Studio, 40 St. Stephen Street. See the below announcements and RSVP to these free concerts by writing administrator@kajiasostudio.com

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.

SAVE THE DATE – Thursday, March 27th – Fenway Civic Association’s Annual Meeting – 6-8 pm., details to come ~ watch this space!

ONGOING – SURVEYS AND ACTION PLANS

Fenway Transportation Action Plan

City of Boston’s Anti-Displacement Initiative: 

community priorities related to combating displacement. 

 analysis of the stabilization tools the City uses today

Anti-Displacement Community survey.

Community Survey – Your input welcome: Where does it flood in Boston?  Community-Based Flood Resilience and Green Infrastructure

The Boston Rodent Action Plan (BRAP) 

ONGOING

BOSTON FAMILY DAYS – FREE ADMISSION TO MUSEUMS (AND MORE) REGISTER HERE.

Boston Parks and Recreation Fitness Series 

Check this site for a wide variety of free offerings! Get Fit, Enjoy your parks! 

ArtsBoston calendar a citywide listing of cultural events

FENWAY CARES

Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution 

Next date: 2/26 – at 2 locations:

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

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Food Distributions

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.

COUNCIL NEWS Boston City Council news

Councilor Fernandes Anderson – UPDATE

In December, Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson was arrested on federal public corruption charges, pleaded not-guilty and was due in court on Jan. 29, however, this court date was pushed out to March 5.

DEVELOPMENTS BY STATUS:

“Under Review”:  

69-81 Kilmarnock Street, 409 Huntington Avenue, 262 St. Botolph St., 142-146 St. Mary’s Street 

“Board Approved”:

Kenmore Hotel, Fenway Corners (West), Fenway Corners (North), Fenway Center, Boston University – Warren Towers Renovation, 819 Beacon Street, 

601 Newbury Street, 20 Charlesgate West, 2 Charlesgate West, 165 Park Drive, 1400 Boylston Street, 1241 Boylston Street,  112-114 Queensberry St, 109 Brookline Avenue

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Promoting a vital and sustainable neighborhood

Dear Members and Friends:

FEBRUARY is, on average, our coldest month, but don’t worry, lot’s to do to get you through:

BLACK HISTORY MONTH – an amazing array of activities!

Meet Boston Black History month in Boston and Guide To Black Boston 

Boston Public Library Celebrates Black History month 

Black History Month Celebration Schedule | Museum of Science 

Embrace Boston Digital Experience 

City of Boston Black History events  

AllEvents Boston entertainment listings

Red Sox  redsox.com/bhm celebrate with special Fenway park tours, and are 

partnering with Museum of African American History in Boston to provide free admission to maah.org from February 21-23, coinciding with school vacation week.

Snow Moon – February 12th, big, bright and beautiful…

Valentine’s Day – February 14th. The origin of this holiday goes back to ancient Roman times – when a saint championed love over war!

February School Vacation Week, February 16-21

Parks Department Hosts February School Vacation Week Activities Children, parents, and caregivers are invited to join the Boston Parks and Recreation Department for February school vacation week 2025. Sports clinics, an annual Children’s Festival, and nature exploration with the Park Rangers; activities are FREE and open to all.

Monday, February 17 Washington’s Birthday is a federal holiday ​​

What’s open/closed? 

Massachusetts is the birthplace of four U.S. presidents. Can you name them? 

Did Washington sleep here? Washington is a fascinating man to study, especially in our current political turmoil. This Smithsonian site is a great intro into his extraordinary life. George Washington’s Mount Vernon website offers a look at his life before and after the presidency. After two terms as President,  George Washington’s Farewell Address to the nation delivered a powerful message of unity over partisanship, and is It is still recited annually in the United States Senate, a tradition dating back to the Civil War.

THE WEEK AHEAD 

Tuesday, February 11, 9am, Cocoa with Boston City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, at Mighty Squirrel, 1 David Ortiz Drive, Fenway. Stop by to hear what the Council President has been working on and to ask any questions you may have. 

Wednesday, February 12, 6-8 p.m., Northeastern University Joint Task Force and Public Meeting  City of Boston Planning Dept. (virtual meeting)

The Purpose of this Task Force and Public Meeting is to discuss the proposed community benefits in the upcoming Institutional Master Plan (IMP) filing.

How to Participate:

Please register using the Zoom registration link: bit.ly/40UlvI4
Meeting ID: 160 128 1984
Toll-free call-in number: (833) 568 – 8864

UPCOMING

Friday, February 21, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Fenway/Kenmore Office Hour with Maccon Bonner – Fenway-Kenmore Liaison to City Hall at the Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston Street. Join Maccon’s office hour to receive support connecting with City departments, addressing any concerns or just to say hello.

Saturday, February 22, 5-8PM Mayor’s Youth Summit 2025 | Boston.gov – 

The 2025 Mayor’s Youth Summit will be an exciting platform for Boston’s youth to come together to celebrate the contributions of young people to our City’s culture. Attendees can engage directly with City officials, community leaders, and one another in a fun and welcoming environment. Creating future civic leaders!

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.

SAVE THE DATE – Thursday, March 27th – Fenway Civic Association’s Annual Meeting – details to come ~ watch this space!

ONGOING – SURVEYS AND ACTION PLANS

Fenway Transportation Action Plan

City of Boston’s Anti-Displacement Initiative: 

community priorities related to combating displacement. 

 analysis of the stabilization tools the City uses today

Anti-Displacement Community survey.

Community Survey – Your input welcome: Where does it flood in Boston?  Community-Based Flood Resilience and Green Infrastructure

The Boston Rodent Action Plan (BRAP) 

ONGOING

BOSTON FAMILY DAYS – FREE ADMISSION TO MUSEUMS (AND MORE) REGISTER HERE.

Boston Parks and Recreation Fitness Series 

Check this site for a wide variety of free offerings! Get Fit, Enjoy your parks! 

ArtsBoston calendar a citywide listing of cultural events

FENWAY CARES

Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution 

Next date: 2/12 – at 2 locations:

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

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Food Distributions

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.

COUNCIL NEWS Boston City Council news

Councilor Fernandes Anderson – UPDATE

In December, Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson was arrested on federal public corruption charges, pleaded not-guilty and was due in court on Jan. 29, however, this court date was pushed out to March 5.

DEVELOPMENTS BY STATUS:

“Under Review”:  

69-81 Kilmarnock Street, 409 Huntington Avenue, 262 St. Botolph St., 142-146 St. Mary’s Street 

“Board Approved”:

Kenmore Hotel, Fenway Corners (West), Fenway Corners (North), Fenway Center, Boston University – Warren Towers Renovation, 819 Beacon Street, 

601 Newbury Street, 20 Charlesgate West, 2 Charlesgate West, 165 Park Drive, 1400 Boylston Street, 1241 Boylston Street,  112-114 Queensberry St, 109 Brookline Avenue

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Dear Members and Friends:

February is BLACK HISTORY MONTH – a time to celebrate our rich history and wealth of cultural resources. There is an amazing array of activities this month – enjoy!

Mural by Rob Gibbs at Black Market Nubian 

Black History month in Boston, offers a wealth of events around the city, exploring the past, present and future. Meet Boston posted this list of events around town, along with this Guide To Black Boston for local black-owned restaurants, celebratory events, associations, city guides and more. The Boston Public Library Celebrates Black History month by featuring works created by black artists, story-times, performances, movies, podcasts and more – live and online, so many ways to engage! 

Black History Month Celebration Schedule | Museum of Science has a full list of events with lectures, scientists, exploring a range of scientific themes for all ages.

Embrace Boston Digital Experience explores the incredible contribution of the Kings through images and recordings. The Embrace and the 1965 Freedom Plaza are reminders of the Kings’ high ideals born from struggle—to foster a “beloved community.” 

The City of Boston has events postings, including Feb 3 Black History Month Kick off and Flag Raising; BCYF Black History Month Annual Skate Night – Feb 14; Black Vets Appreciation Lunch – Feb 22; Black Women in Leadership and Labor – Inspiring Generations – panel presentation – Feb 28. 

AllEvents site lists an array of events for Black history month 2025 in Boston, from luncheons to art lessons, the biggest African-American History Month Parade in Boston; volunteer or contribute your services at a church near you; do anything and everything that celebrates the African-American culture. Explore the extensive list of Black History Month 2025 Events in Boston. 

FEBRUARY SCHOOL VACATION, February 16-21

Parks Department Hosts February School Vacation Week Activities Children, parents, and caregivers are invited to join the Boston Parks and Recreation Department for February school vacation week 2025. From sports clinics, to our annual Children’s Festival, and nature exploration with the Park Rangers, these activities are FREE and open to all.

​​

THE WEEK AHEAD

Tuesday, February 4, 6-7 PM, 55 MBTA Bus Meeting w/ FCDC

At the Fenway Community Center 1282 Boylston Street. Meet the coalition fighting for better service on the 55 Bus route, as we see additional need and a growing population in our neighborhood.

Wednesday, February 5, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. City Hall to Go! At the Fenway Community Center 1282 Boylston Street. The truck is under maintenance so the City is setting up at the Fenway Community Center. Get business done without going to City Hall. Questions? email: civicorganizing@boston.gov. 

UPCOMING

Fenway Civic Association’s Annual Meeting – details to come ~ watch this space!

Friday, February 21, 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Fenway/Kenmore Office Hour with Maccon Bonner – Fenway-Kenmore Liaison to City Hall at the Fenway Community Center, 1282 Boylston Street. Join Maccon’s office hour to receive support connecting with City departments, addressing any concerns or just to say hello.

Saturday, February 22, 5-8PM Mayor’s Youth Summit 2025 | Boston.gov – 

The 2025 Mayor’s Youth Summit will be an exciting platform for Boston’s youth to come together to celebrate the contributions of young people to our City’s culture. Attendees can engage directly with City officials, community leaders, and one another in a fun and welcoming environment. Creating future civic leaders!

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 – SURVEYS AND ACTION PLANS

Fenway Transportation Action Plan

FOR A FEW YEARS, The Fenway Civic Association has strongly advocated for an in-depth study of our area transportation challenges and needs. This City of Boston Planning site shows the main FTAP webpage. Right now they are working on finalizing the details for a public meeting – and pulling together some outreach efforts to announce the storymap and subsequent public meeting. View the site to see what is being considered, and does it meet the needs of the community? Are there more questions to ask? Once we get the public meeting dates and details we will share them.

City of Boston’s Anti-Displacement Initiative: Discovery Phase Reports – The City of Boston is developing an Anti-Displacement Action Plan to confront residential, commercial and cultural displacement citywide. Two reports completed as part of the discovery phase are now available. The first summarizes community priorities related to combating displacement. The second is an analysis of the stabilization tools the City uses today and how those tools are working. Both will help to inform the plan.What does this mean to the Fenway? Want to comment? Take this survey.

Community Survey – Your input welcome: Where does it flood in Boston?  Community-Based Flood Resilience and Green Infrastructure

The Boston Rodent Action Plan (BRAP) is a new initiative to combat the rodent population in the city of Boston.

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! 

For a citywide listing of cultural events, check the ArtsBoston calendar. 

FENWAY CARES

Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution 

Next date: 2/12 – at 2 locations:

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

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Food Distributions

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.

COUNCIL NEWS Boston City Council news

Councilor Fernandes Anderson – UPDATE

In December, Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson was arrested on federal public corruption charges, pleaded not-guilty and was due in court on Jan. 29, however, this court date was pushed out to March 5.

DEVELOPMENTS BY STATUS:

“Under Review”:  

69-81 Kilmarnock Street, 409 Huntington Avenue, 262 St. Botolph St., 142-146 St. Mary’s Street 

“Board Approved”:

Kenmore Hotel, Fenway Corners (West), Fenway Corners (North), Fenway Center, Boston University – Warren Towers Renovation, 819 Beacon Street, 

601 Newbury Street, 20 Charlesgate West, 2 Charlesgate West, 165 Park Drive, 1400 Boylston Street, 1241 Boylston Street,  112-114 Queensberry St, 109 Brookline Avenue

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Dear Members and Friends:Sorry for the delay, we’re being buffeted around as January draws to a close.

Our Mayor is called to testify before a congressional committee.

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.

For more information and to RSVP, click here!

Sunday, February 1, 4:00 PM Setsubun Bean Throwing Festival at Kaji Aso Studio (40 St. Stephen Street).

Join neighbors for this annual purifying festival to chase out bad spirits and welcome in luck, followed by sencha and Japanese sweets. For details on registration and fees, visit: https://www.kajiasostudio.com/copy-of-a-spot-of-beauty-art-music-2

UPCOMING

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! 

For a citywide listing of cultural events, check the ArtsBoston calendar. 

FENWAY CARES

Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution 

Next date: 1/29 – at 2 locations:

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

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Food Distributions

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.

Councilor Fernandes Anderson /Boston City Council news

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.

DEVELOPMENTS BY STATUS:

“Under Review”:  

69-81 Kilmarnock Street, 409 Huntington Avenue, 262 St. Botolph St., 142-146 St. Mary’s Street 

“Board Approved”:

Kenmore Hotel, Fenway Corners (West), Fenway Corners (North), Fenway Center, Boston University – Warren Towers Renovation, 819 Beacon Street, 

601 Newbury Street, 20 Charlesgate West, 2 Charlesgate West, 165 Park Drive, 1400 Boylston Street, 1241 Boylston Street,  112-114 Queensberry St, 109 Brookline Avenue

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Dear Members and Friends:

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. 

NOW ON BLUESKY  @parks.boston.gov

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.

City of Boston Holiday schedule – what’s open/closed etc.

Martin Luther King, Jr. 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.

For a list of greater Boston events, click on Meet Boston’s website: https://www.meetboston.com/events/holidays/martin-luther-king-day/

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 21st date cancelled: City Hall on the Go.

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

5PM: One Joslin Place, Dana Farber/Beth Israel, Longwood Medical Area

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.

6PM: Northeastern University 10-Year Institutional Master Plan 

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

Registration link: bit.ly/BCDCJan21B
Call in: 669 254-5252
Meeting ID: 160 629 5863

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.

For more information and to RSVP, click here!

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! 

For a citywide listing of cultural events, check the ArtsBoston calendar. 

FENWAY CARES

Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution 

Next date: 1/29 – at 2 locations:

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

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Food Distributions

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.

Councilor Fernandes Anderson /Boston City Council news

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.

DEVELOPMENTS BY STATUS:

“Under Review”:  

69-81 Kilmarnock Street, 409 Huntington Avenue, 262 St. Botolph St., 142-146 St. Mary’s Street 

“Board Approved”:

Kenmore Hotel, Fenway Corners (West), Fenway Corners (North), Fenway Center, Boston University – Warren Towers Renovation, 819 Beacon Street, 

601 Newbury Street, 20 Charlesgate West, 2 Charlesgate West, 165 Park Drive, 1400 Boylston Street, 1241 Boylston Street,  112-114 Queensberry St, 109 Brookline Avenue

See you around!

Fenway Civic Association

Promoting a vital and sustainable neighborhood

Dear Members and Friends:

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.

Wednesday, January 15, 6-7:30 PM,  Flood Mapping and Green Infrastructure Planning (hybrid – join in person, or virtually)

Thursday, January 16, 6-7:30 PM.,  How Your Voice Can Help Make the Charles River Swimmable (virtual only – zoom meeting)

UPCOMING

Monday, January 20 – Is both Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 

and Inauguration Day.

City of Boston Holiday schedule – what’s open/closed etc.

Martin Luther King, Jr. 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.

For a list of greater Boston events, click on Meet Boston’s website: https://www.meetboston.com/events/holidays/martin-luther-king-day/

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.

For more information and to RSVP, click here!

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):

Borromeo String Quartet Guest Artist Award Concert

Boston Conservatory: https://bostonconservatory.berklee.edu/events/music

ISGM First Thursdays: https://www.gardnermuseum.org/calendar/free-first-thursday-january-2025

Discounts at the MFA: https://www.mfa.org/visit/free-and-discounted-admission

FCC programs: https://fenwaycommunitycenter.org/calendar/month/2025-01/

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

For a citywide listing of cultural events, check the ArtsBoston calendar. 

FENWAY CARES

Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution 

Next date: 1/15 – at 2 locations:

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

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Food Distributions

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.

Councilor Fernandes Anderson /Boston City Council news

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.

From your friends at

Fenway Civic Association

Dear Members and Friends:

This week, the nation mourns the loss of the 39th US President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2024 at the age of 100.

James Earl Carter Jr.

1924-2024

39th President of the United States

“America and the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian” as well as a man of “great character and courage, hope and optimism.” 

“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.”

-Jimmy Carter Op-ed, December 8, 2016

For more information on the life and legacy of Jimmy Carter, visit The Carter Center website, and view the Official Jimmy Carter Tribute Schedule.  

#

THE WEEK AHEAD

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. 

Thursday, January 9, 2024 – National Day of Mourning

Official state funeral to be held in Washington D.C. for James Earl Carter, Jr., 39^th 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.
• Participating institutions include:
  • Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
  • Boston Children’s Museum
  • Franklin Park Zoo
  • Institute of Contemporary Art
  • John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
  • Museum of African American History 
  • Museum of Fine Arts
  • Museum of Science
  • New England Aquarium
• REGISTER HERE. For questions, email bostonfamilydays@boston.gov

City of Boston Holiday schedule – what’s open/closed etc.

Monday, January 20 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

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):

Borromeo String Quartet Guest Artist Award Concert

Boston Conservatory: https://bostonconservatory.berklee.edu/events/music

ISGM First Thursdays: https://www.gardnermuseum.org/calendar/free-first-thursday-january-2025

Discounts at the MFA: https://www.mfa.org/visit/free-and-discounted-admission

FCC programs: https://fenwaycommunitycenter.org/calendar/month/2025-01/

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

For a citywide listing of cultural events, check the ArtsBoston calendar. 

FENWAY CARES

Every Other Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.until done, Fenway Cares Food Distribution 

*no distribution on Jan 1st – Next date: 1/15 – at 2 locations:

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

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Food Distributions

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.

From your friends at

Fenway Civic Association

Dear Members and Friends:

Say goodbye to 2024 … time to ring in the New Year! 

Events throughout the city

There’s a long list of wintery fun things to do, see, and eat compiled by Boston Uncovered, including Holiday Lights along Comm Ave, and a new winter festival in Charlestown, where  Winter Fest transforms Hood Park into a two-acre winter holiday light show, food, fun and ice skating rink  – making it the biggest holiday themed attraction in the city. In the Fenway, there’s Time Out Market, having a “glow up” on New Year’s Eve and of course, to cap it off, there’s FIRST NIGHT…

FIRST NIGHT!

Full schedule of Events on Tuesday, December 31st

First Night has been the best party in town since 1976! Events start early on Tuesday, December 31st – free and open to all! There’s so much to do, plan ahead to enjoy the live music, a 6pm parade then fireworks at 7pm and again at midnight, ice sculptures, tasty treats, and many family activities.

New Year traditions… many you’ve heard of – some, maybe not!

Here’s a list of some New Year’s traditions from around the world…

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. 

Check out 30 traditions from around the world

MBTA – HOLIDAY SCHEDULES AND NOTICES

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.

UPCOMING

City of Boston Holiday schedule – what’s open/closed etc.

Wednesday, January 1 – New Year’s Day 

Monday, January 20 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Boston is expanding free museum, zoo and aquarium days to more families – click the link for more info – starting in January!

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 

*no distribution on Jan 1st – Next date: 1/15 – at 2 locations:

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

East Fenway – Symphony Community Park, 39 Edgerly Road

Food Distributions

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.

For ongoing cultural events, check the ArtsBoston calendar. 

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.

DEVELOPMENTS BY STATUS:

“Under Review”:  

409 Huntington Avenue, 262 St. Botolph St., 142-146 St. Mary’s Street 

“Board Approved”:

Kenmore Hotel, Fenway Corners (West), Fenway Corners (North), Fenway Center, Boston University – Warren Towers Renovation, 819 Beacon Street, 

601 Newbury Street, 20 Charlesgate West, 2 Charlesgate West, 165 Park Drive, 1400 Boylston Street, 1241 Boylston Street,  112-114 Queensberry St, 109 Brookline Avenue

We got a lot done together in 2024! Here’s looking forward to a happy, healthy and productive New Year! 

From your friends at 

Fenway Civic Association