by Noa Racin
graphic by Julie Wang
Summer — a time for lazily sitting by the beach, kayaking along the Charles River and camping underneath the stars. Or, and this is probably more accurate, doing half a million volunteer jobs, internships and classes (go college!). Whether your summer plans are haphazard, uncertain or totally booked, summer is just around the bend, so be sure to check out some local events happening in Boston!
Local historical holidays give Boston its flair. Bunker Hill Day on June 17 is one of Boston’s own public holidays, commemorating the historic battle that served as a turning point in the American Revolution. Be sure to head to the Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown to watch historical re-enactments and displays and listen to live music.
Or, venture down to the Boston Dragon Boat Festival on June 11 and June 12 to watch exciting dragon boat races down the Charles River accompanied by traditional Japanese dancing, art and music.
Also check out the Kelleher Rose Garden, located in the Back Bay Fens, to see rows and rows of beautiful roses in peak bloom. As a gardener, I am eagerly looking forward to appreciating some beautiful scenery, as well as taking some Instagram-worthy pictures.
The Jimmy Fund is hosting its annual Scooper Bowl at Patriot Place in Foxborough, for all the foodies out there. Enjoy all-you-can-eat ice cream on June 18 — now you can eat for a good cause! All ticket sale money is donated to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to aid innovative research.
The SoWa Open Market in the South End, one of my favorite outdoor art markets, also offers some delicious cuisines. With an eclectic urban vibe, it serves as a great way to escape Newton. While you appreciate the market’s gorgeous artwork, make sure you enjoy its main attraction: the food trucks. Every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., SoWa offers over 100 art and food vendor stalls.
Whether you decide to bide your time until the next “Thor” movie comes out or have five pages worth of items on your summer to-do list, Boston offers plenty of enriching experiences right at your doorstep.
