Summer Series at Suffolk Downs

The transformation of Suffolk Downs has been one of Greater Boston's more pleasant surprises, and the Summer Series is proof that the old racetrack has found a new rhythm. This edition turns The Yard at Beachmont Square into a sprawling backyard party with giant lawn games, a Backyard Olympics, live music from Twisted Fate, local food vendors and plenty of space to spread out with a drink in hand. It strikes that sweet spot between organized event and spontaneous hangout, where it's just as easy to spend the evening cheering on friends as it is lounging in the grass between sets. With only a handful of Summer Series events each summer, it's one of those seasonal traditions that's worth taking advantage of before the calendar inevitably flips to fall.