Cheryl Fenton is a Boston-based freelance writer whose work has appeared in the Boston Globe, USAToday, Resy.com, Apartment Therapy, Boston magazine and more. When she's not writing, you can typically find her with at least a dozen oysters in front of her and an extra dirty martini in hand.

Cheryl Fenton

Cheryl Fenton

Articles (63)

Things to do this in Boston this week: May 19-25

Things to do this in Boston this week: May 19-25

Whether you want to check out the latest Japanese films during a festival at the MFA, celebrate patio season at Troquet's Spring Grill Party, dance to the 2000s at the Middle East in Cambridge, or blend up your own scents for a charm-filled candle at Candlefish Boston, you can enjoy May in many ways thanks to plenty of activities for all ages (some don't even cost a dime). There's plenty of fun to be had in and around the city, so here are some ideas for the best things to do this week in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston
The best things to do in Boston this weekend: May 23-25

The best things to do in Boston this weekend: May 23-25

Whether you want to make a personalized candle at a HART jewelry popup in Candlefish Boston, practice your skate savvy at GRLSWIRL's free skate, get cultural at The World Afrika Day Block Party, or ask Freddie Prinze, Jr., and Rachael Leigh Cook your burning questions after a screening of “She’s All That,” there's certainly no shortage of things to do in Boston. We have some ideas for the best things to do this weekend in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston
The Boston Marathon 2025 Route and Course Map

The Boston Marathon 2025 Route and Course Map

Held annually on Patriots’ Day and claiming the spot as the oldest race of its kind in the country, the famous Boston Marathon will run all day on April 21, 2025. With over 30,000 competitors annually, it’s certainly an event you don’t want to miss. The 26.2-mile route from Hopkinton to the finish line on Boylston Street in Boston offers many options for cheering, eating, and post-race celebration (including this Marathon party at Time Out Market!) . Below, you can find the full route, its starting and finish line points, and how to watch it in-person or streaming live on TV. You can also check out our list of things to do during the Boston Marathon. If you’re competing in the race, carbo-load at one of the best restaurants in Boston. 
The best college bars in Boston

The best college bars in Boston

When your budget trumps your desire to go out, nightlife can be tough. Especially in a city known for $200 entertainment tabs. But holding court as a true college town (we’re home to more than 50 colleges and universities and about 200,000 students), there are a number of joints around Boston that cater to the 20-something set. Whether your goal is affordable drinks or late night clubbing (budget be damned), here are the best college bars in Boston. For more college-friendly spots, check out the best cheap eats in Boston and Boston’s best late night dining options. Have a few too many – Boston’s best brunch spots will have the cure. RECOMMENDED: See the full list of the best bars in Boston
The 10 best cities in America in 2025

The 10 best cities in America in 2025

Time Out loves cities. We love talking about them and guiding you to explore them and, once a year, we even rank them with help from you, our readers. The results of our annual survey—which polls city-dwellers around the world about what it’s like to live, work and play in their hometowns—give us insight into what makes a city great. Your views on current culture trends, nightlife, and the things that make you love where you live, such as green spaces and access to beaches, help us compile our global ranking of the world’s best cities and this U.S.-specific list. Below, you’ll find the top 10 places in America, along with insider info from locals on why this year is the right time to visit. Now, without further ado, the best cities in the U.S. right now.
The best Boston New Year’s Eve events to ring in 2025

The best Boston New Year’s Eve events to ring in 2025

Prepped with cheers, bottles of bubbly, and a kiss at midnight, New Year’s Eve is all about new possibilities and the excitement of what’s to come. Beyond belting out a rendition of “Auld Lang Syne,” Boston will be buzzing with activities on December 31 all poised to help you ring in the new year in style. Take in one (or all) of the unique celebrations in the city tailored to every personality. From epic parties with live music to quiet romantic dinners with a champagne toast to early kid-friendly activities, here's how to say hello to 2025. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to New Year’s Eve in Boston
New Year's Day Boston 2025: Best things to do

New Year's Day Boston 2025: Best things to do

Whether you ended 2024 with a feast at one of the best restaurants open on New Year's Eve in Boston or in your PJs watching the ball drop at home, getting out to greet 2025 is a wonderful way to start the new year. As you bust out the new calendar and flip the page to reveal the new year, there's fresh air to be had and plenty of ways to reflect on what's to come. Whatever you do on New Year's Day in Boston, here are a few ways to say thank you to 2024 and kick start a fresh Day 1. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to New Year’s Eve in Boston
Beacon Hill neighborhood guide

Beacon Hill neighborhood guide

Beacon Hill is one of the most historic neighborhoods in Boston. Its picturesque red-brick row houses, gas lanterns, and steep, narrow streets make taking a walk in the neighborhood a treat. There are also lots of hidden gems throughout like the Boston Athenæum and 1928 Beacon Hill, a restaurant always packed with locals, and the secret rooftop at the Beacon Hill Hotel. Once you’ve exhausted this tony neighborhood, find more to do around town by checking out our guides to the best restaurants in Boston, best live music in Boston, and best museums in Boston.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston
The best hot chocolate in Boston

The best hot chocolate in Boston

When the weather outside is frightful, there's nothing more delightful than a steaming mug of hot cocoa. We're not taking about a powdery packet: Boston is brimming with rich, sweet, spicy—and occasionally boozy—options for hot chocolate. With a cup of any one of these cozy drinks in your hands, not only you will feel festive and toasty, but you will also feel your fingers. Hot cocoa pairs well with strolling through the best parks in Boston or following a spin on the ice at one of the best skating rinks. If hot chocolate doesn't do enough to satisfy your sweet teeth, check out our guide to the best desserts in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best restaurants in Boston
The best holiday and Christmas markets in Boston to enjoy this winter

The best holiday and Christmas markets in Boston to enjoy this winter

The last thing you want to deal with this holiday season is a Black Friday crowd, mall parking or missing shipped packages. So forgo those follies and instead treat yourself to a fun shopping experience—that also supports local. These holiday markets are not only decked out in splendor (hello, hot cocoa and twinkle lights!), but you’ll leave knowing you supported small businesses by buying gifts that stand out from everything else under the tree. When you’re done, check out one of the many Christmas events in Boston or get some more cheer from a Boston Christmas lights display. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Christmas in Boston
The best Boston movie theaters to enjoy the latest movies

The best Boston movie theaters to enjoy the latest movies

The Boston area offers many options for moviegoers, including modern multiplexes, black box-type minis and lavish old theaters. Luxury cinemas with fancy treats and massive recliner seating that mimics the coziness of home viewing has become the norm. While most people want entertainment and flock to the blockbusters, there are also exceptional spaces to seek art and enlightenment—read on for more. Of course, regular cinema nights are as important to locals as visiting one of the best live music venues in Boston. Why not start or end the evening’s entertainment in one of the best dive bars in Boston. Or, if dinner and a movie is your go-to, check out one of the most romantic restaurants in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston
Where to order Thanksgiving takeout in Boston

Where to order Thanksgiving takeout in Boston

Making things easier for yourself on Thanksgiving is definitely something to be thankful for. Boston chefs and restaurants are here to help, with plenty of options for heat-and-serve holiday meals. Whether it’s a full feast or a la carte sides to supplement your spread, make sure to order Thanksgiving to-go ahead of time. Don’t want to celebrate at home? Check out the best restaurants serving Thanksgiving dinner in Boston and the best ways to celebrate Thanksgiving in Boston. Recommended: Full guide to the best restaurants in Boston

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UNIQLO Festival of Films from Japan

UNIQLO Festival of Films from Japan

The UNIQLO Festival of Films from Japan returns to the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA) from May 22 through June 1. With an electrifying selection of bold new releases, this year's festival marks the eighth-annual showcase of Japanese cinema made possible through the MFA’s 10-year partnership with global apparel retailer UNIQLO. This year’s festival spans genres and generations, from Shinya Tsukamoto’s haunting war drama Shadow of Fire (2023) to the heartwarming journey of grief and reconciliation in Cottontail (2023). Kiyotaka Oshiyama’s Look Back (2024), adapted from the beloved manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto, explores artistic passion and collaboration, while Bushido (2024) delivers a thrilling samurai epic infused with social critique. The festival also features the inventive time-loop comedy River (2023) and the nostalgic, jazz-infused biopic Between the White Key and the Black Key (2023). Check here for showtimes and dates.
ArtsEmerson Announces New Season

ArtsEmerson Announces New Season

Join ArtsEmerson Interim Executive Director and Director of Artistic Programming Ronee Penoi on May 22 at 7pm at the Paramount Center for a live, show by show announcement of the next season. The night will be full of surprises and special guests, and if you’re one of the first 100 guests you’ll also receive a special gift to commemorate ArtsEmerson’s 15th Anniversary Season. After the event, head over to the Jackie Liebergott Black Box Theater for a party where you can enjoy light bites, an open bar, and mingling with visiting artists, ArtsEmerson staff, and fellow audience members. While the event is free, registration is required.
Y2K Night at The Middle East Downstairs

Y2K Night at The Middle East Downstairs

Flip open your Sidekick, dust off those low-rise jeans and velour tracksuits, and get ready to party like it’s the early oughts at Middle East – Downstairs. On May 23 at 8pm, the space transforms into a high-energy, neon-drenched night filled with nonstop bangers from Britney, N*SYNC, Missy Elliott, The Killers, Gwen Stefani, Usher, and more of the Y2K era with a live DJ spinning the best throwbacks. There will be plenty of photo ops and sing-along moments. 
The World Afrika Day Block Party

The World Afrika Day Block Party

Returning on May 24 for its third year in Boston, The World Afrika Day Block Party is festive outdoor activation of the sounds and culture of Afrika (the continent's pre-colonial spelling). What began in Boston in 2022, today now is a schedule of events nationwide including founder Jonathan Bekele’s ancestral home of Ethiopia. The event, held from 2-7pm at the Summer Street Plaza, brings a vibrant celebration and unforgettable day of music, culture, and connection to Downtown Crossing - complete DJs, artists, vendors, and sponsors from across the continent to highlight the diasporic sounds and traditions.
Music of the Cosmos

Music of the Cosmos

Conductor Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops bring audiences among the stars for a multimedia program on May 23 and 24 at 7:30pm that explores the intersection of music, space, and science fiction. Featuring the incomparable George Takei as your cosmic storyteller and developed in partnership with the Museum of Science, Boston and its Center for Space Sciences, the Music of the Cosmos concert will boldly go where no man (or woman) has gone before. Stay after the concert for a meet and greet with Takei and special guest Astronaut Sunita Williams. 
GRLSWIRL's World's Okayest Skater Tour

GRLSWIRL's World's Okayest Skater Tour

The World's Okayest Skater Tour 2024-25 wraps up in Boston on May 24 with a free, all-levels skate meet-up. Our city gets a dose of empowerment on wheels as GRLSWIRL—the world's largest women's skate collective—hits Moakley Park from 2-4pm and invites women (from beginner to seasoned skater) to join the worldwide skate movement. With a focus on community, the entire tour had a goal of unifying locals by bringing together skaters from all backgrounds. The tour, which has spanned 16 cities globally, including Austin, Miami, Bangkok, Melbourne, Mexico City, and more, was a celebration of skateboarding, community, and personal empowerment, and Boston is the final stop of the party.
Spring Grill Party at Troquet

Spring Grill Party at Troquet

The Spring Grill Party is back at Troquet during Memorial Day Weekend. To celebrate the opening of their patio (although if the weather isn’t cooperating, they’ll hold the event indoors), the Binchotan grill will be hard at work in the kitchen on May 23 and 24 from 4-8 pm, featuring Spicy Soy Salmon Collar, Kabiyaki Glazed Beef, Chicken Peanut Satay, Garlic Lemon Shrimp, Thai Chili Watermelon, and Brown Sugar Pineapple. The bartenders will be serving spring cocktails like our Pineapple Express and Watermelon Spritz. Get there early, before all the tasty treats are gone, as this is “a while supplies last, first-come, first-served” event.  
“She’s All That” at the Chevalier Theatre

“She’s All That” at the Chevalier Theatre

Step back into the late ‘90s on May 23 from 7:30-11:30pm for a special screening of “She’s All That” at Medford’s Chevalier Theatre, followed by a live conversation with the film’s iconic stars, Freddie Prinze, Jr., and Rachael Leigh Cook. Relive the romance, the makeover magic, and the unforgettable moments that made the film a generation-defining classic. After the screening, the two actors take the stage to share behind-the-scenes stories, reflect on the film’s lasting impact, and revisit their on-screen chemistry that made Zack and Laney’s love story so memorable. For those looking for an extra-special experience, a limited number of VIP tickets are available that include a personal post-show photo opportunity with Prinze and Cook.
Candlefish Boston Candlemaking Workshop with HART

Candlefish Boston Candlemaking Workshop with HART

Charleston-based jewelry brand HART is popping up at Newbury Street's Candlefish Boston on May 25 to host two candle-making workshops at 10am and noon. Guided by expert chandlers, you'll craft two custom nine-ounce candles, blending fragrances and exploring top, mid, and dry notes, to create scents that are uniquely yours. Six HART charms will be hidden inside your candles, revealing their magic as they burn. You'll also leave with a lurex bracelet cord to adorn.
2025 Parks Summer Fitness Series Kickoff event

2025 Parks Summer Fitness Series Kickoff event

Setting up a summer of free fitness programming, the Boston Parks Summer Fitness Series kicks off its season with an annual event at Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park on May 15 at 5:30-7pm. Bring a yoga mat and water bottle and get ready to work out in the sunshine (hopefully) during two free workout classes (yoga and dance fitness). You'll also walk away with a fun giveaway item. You can find the entire schedule here.
Amy Poehler and Tiny Fey at the Wang Theater

Amy Poehler and Tiny Fey at the Wang Theater

Joking “if this tour goes right, we can finally end this friendship,” funny women Amy Poehler (proud Newton native) and Tiny Fey are headed to Wang Theater at The Boch Center for three dynamic shows that will celebrate their 30 years of friendship with jokes, stories, and conversation. The performances are May 17 at 2pm and 6pm and May 18 at 4pm.
YUM: A Taste of Immigrant City 2025

YUM: A Taste of Immigrant City 2025

The 16th annual YUM: A Taste of Immigrant City 2025 returns for the first time in five years on May 15 at 6:30pm as part of the Arts at the Armory at the Somerville Armory. This delicious evening celebrates Somerville’s wonderful diversity and tastes with a variety of dishes, drinks, and discussions that will transport you around the world. This is also a great way to learn more about your host organization, The Welcome Project, and its work to support the immigrant communities of the Metro North.

News (21)

I tried Boston's new Clue-themed walking tour—here's what it was like

I tried Boston's new Clue-themed walking tour—here's what it was like

It’s a mystery why a board game that revolves around a macabre murder became such a hit with families, but Clue has had a stranglehold on audiences from the get-go. Using cards, clues and cunning, the detective game born in 1943 out of boredom during WWII air-raid blackouts has remained a family-friendly sensation all these years. Now, the classic whodunnit comes to life as an interactive and immersive experience in Boston. (Yes, you can dress in character.) As a fan of the game since my dad first dragged out his childhood set to play with me in the ‘80s, I was excited to hit the bricks with my friend for some sleuthing when “Clue: A Walking Mystery” debuted in Boston on June 27. With the green light from Hasbro, award-winning interactive game designers The Wild Optimists and Right Angle Entertainment first launched the event in Chicago, with more cities in planning. It invites armchair sleuths to hit the streets to cosplay as descendents of the original characters—Mayor Green, Colonel Mustard, Solicitor Peacock, Professor Plum, Miss Scarlett and Chef White—to solve the grizzly murder of Mr. Boddy Black, the game’s fictitious victim. The 75-year-old case may have gone cold, but thanks to clues scattered throughout the city, you can be hot on the trail of a murderer. Photograph: Cheryl Fenton Our adventure begins just off the Freedom Trail, by the North End Bakery counter inside the bustling Quincy Market, as two butlers describe the tale and the familiar task at hand: We mu
Princess Cruises launches new routes out of Boston

Princess Cruises launches new routes out of Boston

Boston has a new option for cruise vacations with itineraries to visit our northern neighbors during prime leaf-peeping season. Princess Cruises has sailed into town for its maiden Boston season, beginning July 14, with exciting east coast excursions planned through early October around New England, Canada and Greenland. In the wake of introducing a Northern Lights voyage to west coast travelers, the iconic cruise company is now sailing out of Flynn Cruiseport Boston with the Emerald Princess. The 3,080-guest cruise ship offers well-appointed staterooms, world-class dining voted one of the best choices for food lovers by Food & Wine magazine, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas and tons of on-board activities and experiences. Photograph: Courtesy Princess CruisesA mini suite on the Emerald Princess vessel Ten available routes from Boston range in length from seven to 17 days. Hop aboard to enjoy all that scenic New England and Canada have to offer—from colonial history to striking lighthouses and quaint seaside villages ready to serve you some fresh seafood.  In August, you can knock a visit to the world's largest island off your bucket list with three port stops in Greenland to see its stunning landscapes and magnificent fjords. As fall creeps in, Emerald Princess also has vantage points on the most glorious foliage as it sails along forested areas in the northeast, rich in the brilliant shades of autumn red, orange and gold.   Boston-based Emerald Prin
Boston just won a cheezy award

Boston just won a cheezy award

While lobster rolls, Boston Baked Beans, and Boston Crème Pie usually take centerstage as notable noshes for our city, there’s another dish that’s drawing attention from diners in Boston.  According to research done by Clever Real Estate, some might be surprised that Boston is the third-best pizza city in America, with a near perfect overall pizza score of 99 out of 100. To decide who made the grade for this cheezy award, the data team at Clever Real Estate analyzed a multitude of metrics, including pizza “reputation” gained from a survey of 1,000 Americans, average Yelp rating for pizza restaurants, average pizza prices, and more. Boston lost out to Denver and Buffalo, N.Y., which are in spots one and two respectively. With 12.3 pizza restaurants per 100,000 residents (a far cry from the lowest on the list – Dallas which has the fewest pizza restaurants, with just 2.7), Boston is poised with options for great pies. According to the data, we have 46 percent more than the typical city's rate of 8.4 per 100,000 residents. These spots deliver (pun intended), boasting an average Yelp rating of 3.81 out of 5 stars. And Boston is willing to pay - A large cheese pizza in Boston costs $19.65 on average, while a large pepperoni pizza averages $23.05. Boston also scored an 88 out of 100 in the pizza passion metric, based on how often locals search the web for pizza-related terms (e.g., "pizza near me," "pizza delivery," "pan pizza," etc.). That's 22 percent higher than the average city
These local chefs are now James Beard semifinalists

These local chefs are now James Beard semifinalists

  While the Oscars and Golden Globes usually vie for our attention this time of year, there is another award season upon us. And it’s one that occasionally trades red carpets for white table cloths. The James Beard Foundation semifinalist list was recently released, recognizing the year’s best restaurants and chefs from around the country and across a respected list of 11 categories. While all of the New England states are represented within the semifinalist list with Connecticut the only one represented in the Outstanding Chef category (congrats to Renee Touponce of Mystic’s The Port of Call), there are plenty of Massachusetts chefs up for Best Chef Northeast. The semi-finalists for Best Chef Northeast include: Tracy Chang, Pagu, CambridgeJohn daSilva, Chickadee, BostonConor Dennehy, Tallula, CambridgePatricia Estorino, Gustazo Cuban Kitchen & Bar, CambridgeCecelia Lizotte, Suya Joint, BostonLaurence Louie, Rubato, QuincyRachel Miller, Nightshade Noodle Bar, Lynn For those not in the know, The James Beard Awards are among the nation’s most prestigious culinary honors, honoring those “who are creating exceptional food, food media content, and better food systems, while demonstrating a commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive.” When deciding on the Chef Awards, they choose those in the kitchen who celebrate excellence across a range of experiences, from fine-dining establishments to casual gems, and emerging talents
This Boston restaurant made the top 10 most romantic restaurants list by Yelp

This Boston restaurant made the top 10 most romantic restaurants list by Yelp

The season of smooch is upon us and, if you’re scrambling to find a romantic place to have Valentine’s Day dinner with your love, according to Yelp, you don’t have to look very far. Just take them to Sorellina in Boston, which just snagged the No. 10 spot on the site’s Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in the U.S. Located in the heart of historic Copley Square, chef/owner Jamie Mammano’s Italian-Mediterranean inspired restaurant was the only Massachusetts restaurant to get shown any love on the list (the only other New England locale mentioned was Providence’s Los Andes Restaurant at No. 36).  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sorellina (@sorellinaboston) Just in time for Valentine’s Day celebrations, Yelp identified restaurants with a large concentration of reviews mentioning the love language that makes our hearts swoon - words and phrases such as "romantic," "date night" and "Valentine.” The site then ranked those spots using a number of factors including the total volume and ratings of reviews with those keywords. And so the love list was born.  Yelpers definitely know a beauty when they see one. Magical and mysterious, the warm-modern design at Sorellina is entwined with the glow of the back wall mural and the floor-to-ceiling windows for a visually stunning combo. Soft leather chairs to sink into, candles flickering on the table and a floating panel ceiling with intimate low lighting all work in harmony to set the mood. Add in the classic I
Your favorite lunch order just got a new line up. Literally.

Your favorite lunch order just got a new line up. Literally.

Adjacent to The Connector located in Winthrop Center, a 691-foot mixed-use tower with the moniker of Downtown Boston’s newest urban "living room," The Lineup food hall just opened on January 17. While the spot houses five quick-serve culinary delights, don’t go opening your dinner reservation app too soon. These eateries are only open during the week from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Photograph: Courtesy Brian Samuels The brainchild of Michelin-starred Chef and Restaurateur John Fraser (of NYC’s Dovetail and now-closed Nix fame), The Lineup is his first-ever food hall concept and it’s one for the 9-to-5 daily grinders (although it is missing a sub shop). "The JF Restaurants team is thrilled to team up with Millennium Partners to launch our first ever food hall in the heart of Downtown Boston at The Connector," he said in a press release. “We look forward to welcoming the Boston community to discover this new epicurean destination whether you're looking to dine in or simply place an order for pick up."While convenience is definitely on the menu (the hall’s restaurants are all fast-casual for those looking for quick lunch options), you can also look forward to exploring five one-of-a-kind concept restaurants, ranging from 3.5-ounce smash burgers at Big Grin and Neapolitan wood-fired pizzas at Gatto Pazzo (check out their signature pie with golden yellow tomato vodka sauce and citrus-marinated shrimp) to vegetarian Mexi-Cali street food at Ariana (the pizza box of vegetarian nachos will
Immersive art experience opening in Boston's Downtown Crossing

Immersive art experience opening in Boston's Downtown Crossing

While you typically visit museums with hands in pocket, there’s a new art exhibition hall coming to Boston that’s challenging that pesky “look but don’t touch” concept.  WNDR Museum Boston is an unparalleled immersive art and technology experience opening in Boston's Downtown Crossing on February 1. The 17,000-square-foot museum redefines the traditional museum, with most of the art focused on physical movement interaction. Translation? Instead of standing idle, you’re actually encouraged to engage with artworks and multi-sensory installations created by cutting edge artists, collectives, technologists, designers, and makers. This multi-dimensional journey was voted one of the best 10 immersive experiences in the U.S. to check out right now by Time Out.  Photograph: Courtesy Ken Schluchtmann   With more than 20 exhibits, WNDR Museum Boston will also be home to localized versions of popular exhibits found at its flagship Chicago location, alongside pieces by internationally acclaimed artists including Yayoi Kusama’s Let’s Survive Forever. Considered one of her masterpieces, the installation features stainless steel balls suspended from the ceiling and arranged on the floor of the Infinity Room; an enclosed column within the room offers yet another mirrored environment accessible through peepholes. A sense of infinity is offered through the play of reflections between the circular shapes and surrounding mirrors on the room’s walls. “At WNDR Museum, we are committed to breakin
The best Boston Tea Party 250th anniversary events

The best Boston Tea Party 250th anniversary events

The City of Boston is definitely an OG tea spiller. And, on December 16, the city is poised to celebrate the 250th anniversary of when its colonists showed intolerance to tyranny by tossing all the tea into the Harbor to defy British rule. This is known as the Boston Tea Party of 1773. The commemorations this year will feature unprecedented levels of collaboration between organizations across Boston and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, culminating in a grand-scale, live reenactment of the Boston Tea Party on December 16, 2023. What was the Boston Tea Party? If you’re late to the history lesson party, here’s a breakdown of the famous local event. This political protest took place at Griffin’s Wharf in Boston on December 16, 1773, when angry colonists showed their frustration with Britain’s “taxation without representation” by dumping 342 chests of tea into the harbor. The tea was imported by the British East India Company, a massive British corporation founded under Queen Elizabeth I that would have given today’s tech giants like Google, Apple, or Amazon a run for their money as one of history’s biggest, most dominant. This event rallied the patriots to begin their fight for eventual independence from Britain. Are there any informational events about or re-enactments of the Boston Tea Party? A full evening of reenactments will play out on December 16 across Boston at several historic locations.  Starting off, Faneuil Hall & The Boston Tea Party: A Protest in Principle takes
Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party in fashion

Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party in fashion

Colonial Sons of Liberty were clearly the literal OGs of spilling the tea, thanks to dumping British tea into the Boston Harbor to protest in 1773. And, on December 16, you can help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party with your own cup of fragrant tea and delicious treats overlooking the city’s waters. Celebrate and relive the Boston Tea Party’s spirit (minus the tossing of the tea) with a Grand Afternoon Tea at the Boston Harbor Hotel during December. Held at the hotel’s waterfront restaurant, Rowes Wharf Sea Grille, you can raise a cup with pinkies up on Thursdays through Sundays throughout the month from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm with exquisite teas, champagne, and decadent bites.  Teapots are steeping with your choice of black, green, oolong, white, or rooibos herbal teas, as you take your seat among awe-inspiring Boston Harbor views and await a feast fit for a king (but not one that taxes without representation, of course).  Simple tea sandwiches often seen at traditional afternoon teas give way to special savories on tiered displays, including Ostrea Caviar, Rosti Potato, Toast Points, Chive Crêpes with Crème Fraîche; Maine Lobster Popovers with White Truffle Sabayon; A5 Wagyu Hand Chopped Steak Tartare with Dijon, Capers, Kewpie, and Aged Pecorino Romano; and Hudson Valley Foie Gras Toast with Quince Butter on Hi Rise Potato Bread with Sauterne Geleé.  While sipping on Moët & Chandon Impérial Rosé Brut Champagne, you’ll finish up with decadent sweets, such
Boston Women’s Market spreads holiday cheer at Quincy Market this weekend

Boston Women’s Market spreads holiday cheer at Quincy Market this weekend

Now that December is upon us, it’s time to kick it into high gear for the holidays. And with that comes the ever-daunting gift list. Panic not - Boston’s thriving holiday market scene once again comes to the rescue, as the Boston Women's Market takes over Quincy Market this weekend in Boston. What is the Boston Women’s Market? Courtesy Founded by Africa Rubio Pastor and Cara Loffredo to support local makers and artists, the holiday market is bringing together more than 40 women-owned businesses (many of them LGBTQ+ and minority-owned as well) with unique
 products ranging from hand-crafted jewelry and pet accessories to stationery and handmade body care. While the market saw its first shoppers in 2017 with past locations at Harpoon Brewery, Time Out Market, Union Square, and The Speedway, this is the first time it's been held at iconic Quincy Market. What can I buy at the holiday market? Located over the two floors of Quincy Market, wares rotate every week, so each time you shop you’ll find a new business to support. The market offers unique home goods and decor, ceramics, accessories, jewelry, pet goods, gourmet treats, and more. A few of the vendors include illustrations and dog bandanas at Slobber Threads, hand-sewn journals and sketchbooks at Lend a Hand Designs, jewelry inspired by New England's natural beauty from Just Rosy, French macarons from Mariela's Sweets, and body care from JB Artisans Soaps. What about food and drink at the Boston Women’s Market? Whether you
Rosebud Kitchen & Bar blooms again in Davis Square

Rosebud Kitchen & Bar blooms again in Davis Square

When it comes to one of Somerville’s most beloved eateries in Davis Square, everything's coming up roses. After being purchased by Bindaas Restaurant Group in June 2023 and hosting its last service on October 1, the beloved Rosebud Kitchen & Bar is finally reopening on December 1, with both a new concept and some old favorites.  Respecting its place as a neighborhood landmark since 1941 and coveted listing on the National Register of Historic Places since 1999, not much inside Rosebud feels changed. You’ll still find its black and red leather booths and weathered wood paneling that are tell tale signs of a classic diner vibe. But the newest incarnation of Rosebud features the food of Chef Keith Sarasin, a founder of the New Hampshire "Farm to Table" movement, who will be introducing knowledge gained from his study of Indian food and culture for the past two decades.   While the new owners have dropped the “American” in the name Rosebud American Kitchen & Bar, they aren’t planning on dropping some of the American classics the diner has been known for for generations. The regional comfort food that evokes nostalgia still remains -  bacon cheeseburgers with American cheese and applewood smoked bacon, mac 'n cheese with buttery Ritz Cracker crust, French toast, buttermilk pancakes and eggs, and hot dogs.   Courtesy   But now, you can customize the mac 'n cheese with creamy Chicken Tikka or garnish your dog with Indian vegetable chili, cilantro, and red onion. You’ll also find I
Boston finally has a Topgolf

Boston finally has a Topgolf

Despite winter’s upcoming chilly temps and whipping winds, avid golfers can now breathe a sigh of relief. Topgolf is finally open in Canton, giving visitors a way to work around New England’s nasty weather and improve their swing for the spring, and all not too far from Boston. Where is the new Topgolf near Boston? The brand new golfing complex is the franchise's first location in Massachusetts and the second in New England (there’s a Topgolf location in Cranston, R.I.). "There's been a ton of excitement within the Topgolf family about this venue opening, and we're so excited to see it come to life," Topgolf's chief operating officer, Gen Gray, said in a statement. Everything to know about Topgolf Whether you bring your own or you use their complimentary clubs, the three-story facility has something for every golfer of every level - kids included. For those who prefer to simply practice their swing, the location includes 90 climate-controlled heated hitting bays, with HDTVs in every one. More than just the traditional ranges, Topgolf also allows players to earn points by aiming for giant targets for more realistic play time. Bonus: the high-tech micro-chipped balls score themselves, and Toptracer technology allows you to see a real-time trace of your ball's flight path as well as insights into speed, distance, angle and accuracy. The venue also boasts a sports bar and restaurant inside, along with a 28-foot video wall and 100-plus HDTVs throughout. The menu is full of shareab