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Tito Puente Latin Music Series: Kristalis y Las Nenas del Swing

Join us this summer in Boston Parks for live salsa music and dance.

July 31, 2025
Event Date2025-07-31T19:00:00

Created in honor of Latin music icon Tito Puente, this series celebrates years of bringing live Latin music with a strong salsa influence to Boston parks. The series is sponsored in part by:

Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation scholarship recipient Kristalis Sotomayor has just earned her master’s degree in classical flute from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee. Now, she’s making waves with the launch of her exciting new charanga band, Kristalis y Las Nenas del Swing ("The Swingin’ Babes").

This dynamic ensemble features seven exceptional female Latin musicians hailing from Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico, joined by two equally talented male musicians from Colombia and Panama.

July 31, 2025
Event Date2025-07-31T19:00:00

Tito Puente Latin Music Series: Hugo Díaz

Join us this summer in Boston Parks for live salsa music and dance.

July 17, 2025
Event Date2025-07-17T19:00:00

Created in honor of Latin music icon Tito Puente, this series celebrates years of bringing live Latin music with a strong salsa influence to Boston parks. The series is sponsored in part by:

Hugo Díaz was raised in the vibrant world of tropical music. At the age of 15, he discovered his natural talent for singing and has been performing ever since. His musical development began with Cinco En Clave, led by director Carlos Daly, where he had the opportunity to share the stage with notable artists such as Mel Martinez, Paquito Acosta, Wiki Gonzalez, Primi Cruz, and Manolo Lezcano.

As his career progressed, doors began to open for Díaz, and he went on to perform with La Orquesta Mulenze, La Orquesta Abran Paso, as well as with prominent figures in the Latin music scene, including Pedro Brull, Yolanda Rivera, Luigi Texidor, Luisito Carrión, Tito Rojas, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Pichie Perez, and many others.

Díaz's performances have taken him to renowned venues like the Lincoln Center in New York, where he captivated an audience of 7,000 people, as well as countless patronal celebrations and festivals. His rich musical journey continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

July 17, 2025
Event Date2025-07-17T19:00:00

Tito Puente Latin Music Series: Barbara Zamora Vargas

Join us this summer in Boston Parks for live salsa music and dance.

July 10, 2025
Event Date2025-07-10T19:00:00

Created in honor of Latin music icon Tito Puente, this series celebrates years of bringing live Latin music with a strong salsa influence to Boston parks.  The series is sponsored in part by:

Barbara Zamora Vargas is a Cuban singer and songwriter renowned for her versatility and distinguished career in music. She graduated from the Instituto Superior de Arte (ISA) in Havana, Cuba, specializing in choral conducting under the guidance of esteemed instructors like Linda Mirabal, Zenaida Castro Romeu, and María Felicia Pérez.

In 1992, Vargas joined the legendary Cuban female orchestra Anacaona, where she has remained as a lead singer ever since. With Anacaona, she has performed on global stages and participated in numerous prestigious festivals, including Nuits D'Afrique in Montreal, Sunfest in London, Aruba’s International Jazz Festival, and Salsa al Parque in Bogotá, Colombia. Her work with Anacaona also saw her perform in the musical theater production El Burgués Gentilhombre, which was showcased at the Chaillot Theatre in Paris, the Metropolitan Hall in Mexico City, and the Monte Carlo Casino in Monaco.

Vargas's career extends far beyond Anacaona. She has contributed as a backup singer in several notable productions, including the Latin Grammy-winning La Rumba Soy Yo in 2001, Isaac Delgado’s Versos en el Cielo, and Control by Manolito y su Trabuco. As a soloist, she has performed in prestigious events like the Adolfo Guzmán and OTI contests, as well as the Benny Moré Festival.

In 2011, Vargas launched her solo career with the release of Mi Entrega, an album that showcases her songwriting talents across a variety of genres, including bolero, son, blues, salsa, cha-cha-cha, danzón, and fusion. Her work continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, marking her as a significant figure in Latin music.

July 10, 2025
Event Date2025-07-10T19:00:00

114th NAACP National Convention

The City of Boston is proud to host the upcoming 114th National Convention in Boston from July 26, 2023 to August 1, 2023 at the Boston Convention Center.

The NAACP National Convention is an empowering and immersive experience held each year to celebrate our community's collective power. The 114th National Convention will focus on the theme of Thriving Together by inviting change-makers from across the country to celebrate the Black community’s collective power.

July 26 - August 1, 2023
  • 9:00am - 1:00am
  • Boston Convention and Exhibition Center
    Boston, MA
  • Contact:
    NAACP Convention
  • Price:
    Price
    Ticket prices vary
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    Citywide
  • Published Date
Event Date2023-07-26T09:00:00 - 2023-08-01T01:00:00

As part of the NAACP National Convention’s programming, the City is partnering with the NAACP, Governor Healey’s office, AIR Boston, other organizations and local artists to host a series of free, family friendly events and programming open to residents and visitors throughout the week of the convention in the City of Boston throughout the week of the convention between July 26 and July 30, 2023. These events will complement the National Convention and provide opportunities for residents, families and visitors to build community, support local Black-led businesses and engage with the City of Boston.

Learn more and register

July 26 - August 1, 2023
  • 9:00am - 1:00am
  • Boston Convention and Exhibition Center
    Boston, MA
  • Contact:
    NAACP Convention
  • Price:
    Price
    Ticket prices vary
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    Citywide
  • Published Date
Event Date2023-07-26T09:00:00 - 2023-08-01T01:00:00

Message from Mayor Wu

Michelle Wu

“Boston is thrilled to be hosting the 2023 NAACP National Convention led by the nation’s historic 1st chartered branch. As we continue to work towards this historic event, these free, family friendly events and programming are for residents, families and visitors to enjoy throughout the week of the convention. We look forward to seeing residents and visitors gather together and I encourage everyone to engage with these amazing opportunities.”

Mayor Michelle Wu

Events

Volunteer for the 114th National NAACP Convention

The NAACP is recruiting volunteers for the 114th National NAACP Convention, taking place in Boston July 26 - August 1, 2023. There are a number of volunteer roles, shifts and activities.

Seaport x Black Owned Bos. Market

Select Sundays | 12 - 6 p.m.

Celebrating local entrepreneurship, craftsmanship and art, the Seaport x Black Owned Bos. Market features 30+ vendors from a rotating collection of over 60 vendors throughout the season. Free and open to the public!

Pre-convention Prayer Service

Thursday, July 20 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Join us at the St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church as we pray for the NAACP, our City, and our Commonwealth.

Day of Action and Service

Saturday, July 22 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Join us as we kick-off our convention volunteerism with a Day of Action & Service in Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan and Hyde Park! Assignments provide upon registration.

Boston While Black Family Reunion

Saturday, July 22 | 12 - 8 p.m.

Boston While Black (BWB) is taking over the Lawn on D for a day-long celebration of Black experiences, community and culture. BWB will feature live music, BWB member exclusives, and innovative showcases of local vendors and artists from the community.

Get Konnected! A Taste of Ethnic Boston 2023

Tuesday, July 25 | 5:30 - 8 p.m.

Enjoy Boston's premier multicultural food festival highlighting local restaurants and chefs in Boston.

Opening Reception

Friday, July 28 | 5 - 9 p.m.

This event hosted by the City of Boston and NAACP National serves as a kickoff event for the NAACP’s 114th National Convention. This event will feature music by DJ Jazzy Jeff and is free and open to the public with registration.

Culture Nights Music Fest: Seaport

Friday, July 28 | 6 - 9 p.m.

This event organized by the Artist Initiative for Revolution (AIR Boston) & City of Boston will feature performances celebrating Boston’s historic legacy and communities by various local artists and creatives. This event will be held at 88 Seaport Blvd.

Delegates Reception

Saturday, July 29 | 8 p.m. - 12 a.m.

This reception at the Westin Boston Seaport District hosted by Mayor Wu will create space for convention delegates and City community members to gather for a night of celebration. This event is free and open to the public with registration.

23rd Annual Gospel Fest

Sunday, July 30 | 5 - 9 p.m.

New England’s largest Gospel music celebration hosted by MAJOR, including performances by Fred Hammond, Kierra “Kiki” Sheard, and the Mayor’s Gospel Choir. Gospel Fest celebrates Boston’s communities and gospel artists.

Explore The Hub

In addition to the above programming, the NAACP National Convention is encouraging residents and visitors to explore The Hub, the Convention’s premier gathering space featuring music, food, and family-friendly activities. The Hub’s programming will also include a Block Party and Career Summit for visitors. From Friday, July 28 through Sunday July 30 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center – Hall A, The Hub will be free and open to the public at the following times. For more information, please visit naacp.org/TheHub.

  • Friday, July 28 (Hub Opening Block Party): 2 - 9 p.m.
  • Saturday, July 29 (Career Summit): 11 - 6 p.m.
  • Sunday, July 30 (General Programming): 12 - 6 p.m.

A Message from NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson

“Each year, NAACP members, friends, and elected leaders gather at the Convention in a shared space that has proven vital for our collective growth and advocacy,” said NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson. “This space, intently curated each year by the Association’s local branch, state conference, and national leaders, provides us with the ability to harness the power of Black America. We use this sacred time to inspire each other and align on what we need to do to continue pushing this country forward. Now more than ever, this sacred convening is crucial to our continued fight for the preservation of democracy. We are excited to bring vitality and vibrance to our roots in Boston, home of the Association’s first chartered branch.”

More Information

For more information about this year’s NAACP National Convention, please visit naacp.org/convention

BCYF Clougherty Pool Design Meeting July 11, 2023

Receive updates about the BCYF Clougherty Pool demolition that will start this summer and also review renderings of the interior finishes of the bathhouse and pool deck.

July 11, 2023
Event Date2023-07-11T18:00:00 - 2023-07-11T19:30:00

The Public Facilities Department (PFD), Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF), and Fennick McCredie Architecture invite you to join us for a remote meeting to discuss the  BCYF Clougherty Pool Project. 

Join the Zoom

July 11, 2023
Event Date2023-07-11T18:00:00 - 2023-07-11T19:30:00

2025 Children's Arts and Crafts Workshops: North End

Looking for a free, fun activity to enjoy with the kids? Join us this summer for one of our arts and crafts workshops hosted by a local artist in various parks throughout the City of Boston.

July 29, 2025
  • 10:00am - 12:00pm
    Repeats weekly on Tuesday, starting from July 29, 2025, until August 12, 2025
  • Langone Park/ Puopolo Playground
    517 Commercial Street
    Boston , MA 02109
  • Contact:
    PARKS AND RECREATION
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    North End
  • Event Type:
  • Published Date
Event Date2025-07-29T10:00:00 - 2025-07-29T12:00:00

Our arts and crafts workshops are led by local artists. They're held Tuesday through Friday in July and August and run from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. These drop-in workshops encourage kids to explore their creativity through projects like mask making, crayon art, watercolor and much more. Supplies are provided, but you'll need to bring your creativity! 

This series is completely free and open to Boston residents. These workshops will take place in various parks throughout the City of Boston.

Pre-registration is required for groups of 8 or more. Please email allison.singer2@boston.gov to register.

This series is also weather-dependent. Check our social media pages for updated weather info regarding this series. Follow us on social media for the latest updates on events: TwitterFacebook, and Instagram.

July 29, 2025
  • 10:00am - 12:00pm
    Repeats weekly on Tuesday, starting from July 29, 2025, until August 12, 2025
  • Langone Park/ Puopolo Playground
    517 Commercial Street
    Boston , MA 02109
  • Contact:
    PARKS AND RECREATION
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    North End
  • Event Type:
  • Published Date
Event Date2025-07-29T10:00:00 - 2025-07-29T12:00:00

Community Resource Fair

Join the City of Boston and local partners for a Community Resource Fair at BCYF Mattahunt.

October 3, 2024
Event Date2024-10-03T16:30:00 - 2024-10-03T19:00:00

Join the City of Boston and local partners for a Community Resource Fair at BCYF Mattahunt focused on reducing energy bills and pursuing energy efficiency resources. Additional information on food access, housing, career development, and more will be available. Food will be provided!  

  • Learn about utility assistance programs and payment plans through Eversource and National Grid.
  • Find out about Fuel Assistance (HEAP) with ABCD.
  • Enroll into Boston Community Choice Electricity (BCCE).
  • Access resources on food, housing, career development, and more!
  • Bring your utility bills! 

Resources from:

  • ABCD, Fuel Assistance (HEAP)
  • Eversource
  • National Grid 
  • Boston Community Choice Electricity (BCCE) 
  • Mass Save
  • Boston Savez
  • Disabilities Commission
  • Boston Fire Department
  • Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT)
  • Mayor's Office of LGBTQ+ Advancement (MOLA)
  • Education and Outreach Office of Fair Housing & Equity
  • Office of Human Resource
  • Public Works/Waste Reduction/Zero Waste
  • Office of Food Justice
  • Boston Water and Sewer Commission 
October 3, 2024
Event Date2024-10-03T16:30:00 - 2024-10-03T19:00:00

2025 Children's Arts and Crafts Workshops: East Boston

Looking for a free, fun activity to enjoy with the kids? Join us this summer for one of our arts and crafts workshops hosted by a local artist in various parks throughout the City of Boston.

July 29, 2025
  • 10:00am - 12:00pm
    Repeats weekly on Tuesday, starting from July 29, 2025, until August 12, 2025
  • LoPresti Park
    33 Sumner Street
    Boston , MA 02128
  • Contact:
    PARKS AND RECREATION
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    East Boston
  • Event Type:
  • Published Date
Event Date2025-07-29T10:00:00 - 2025-07-29T12:00:00

Our arts and crafts workshops are led by local artists. They're held Tuesday through Friday in July and August and run from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. These drop-in workshops encourage kids to explore their creativity through projects like mask making, crayon art, watercolor and much more. Supplies are provided, but you'll need to bring your creativity! 

This series is completely free and open to Boston residents. These workshops will take place in various parks throughout the City of Boston.

Pre-registration is required for groups of 8 or more. Please email allison.singer2@boston.gov to register.

This series is also weather-dependent. Check our social media pages for updated weather info regarding this series. Follow us on social media for the latest updates on events: TwitterFacebook, and Instagram.

July 29, 2025
  • 10:00am - 12:00pm
    Repeats weekly on Tuesday, starting from July 29, 2025, until August 12, 2025
  • LoPresti Park
    33 Sumner Street
    Boston , MA 02128
  • Contact:
    PARKS AND RECREATION
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    East Boston
  • Event Type:
  • Published Date
Event Date2025-07-29T10:00:00 - 2025-07-29T12:00:00

2023 Children's Arts and Crafts Workshops: Roxbury

Looking for a free, fun activity to enjoy with the kids? Join us this summer for one of our arts and crafts workshops hosted by a local artist in various parks throughout the City of Boston.

July 18, 2023
  • 10:00am - 12:00pm
    Repeats weekly on Tuesday, starting from July 18, 2023, until July 18, 2023
  • Marcella Playground
    260 Highland Street
    Boston , MA 02119
  • Contact:
    PARKS AND RECREATION
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    Roxbury
  • Event Type:
  • Published Date
Event Date2023-07-18T10:00:00 - 2023-07-18T12:00:00

Our arts and crafts workshops are led by local artists. They're held Tuesday through Friday in July and August and run from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. These drop-in workshops encourage kids to explore their creativity through projects like mask making, crayon art, watercolor and much more. Supplies are provided, but you'll need to bring your creativity! 

This series is completely free and open to Boston residents. These workshops will take place in various parks throughout the City of Boston.

Registration is encouraged so we know how many supplies to bring (pre-registration is required for groups of 8 or more). Please email Shannon.murphy2@boston.gov to register.

This series is also weather-dependent. Check our social media pages for updated weather info regarding this series. Follow us on social media for the latest updates on events: TwitterFacebook, and Instagram.

July 18, 2023
  • 10:00am - 12:00pm
    Repeats weekly on Tuesday, starting from July 18, 2023, until July 18, 2023
  • Marcella Playground
    260 Highland Street
    Boston , MA 02119
  • Contact:
    PARKS AND RECREATION
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    Roxbury
  • Event Type:
  • Published Date
Event Date2023-07-18T10:00:00 - 2023-07-18T12:00:00

2025 Children's Arts and Crafts Workshops: Dorchester / Mattapan

Looking for a free, fun activity to enjoy with the kids? Join us this summer for one of our arts and crafts workshops hosted by a local artist in various parks throughout the City of Boston.

July 8, 2025
  • 10:00am - 12:00pm
    Repeats weekly on Tuesday, starting from July 8, 2025, until July 22, 2025
  • Harambee Park
    930 Blue Hill Avenue
    Boston , MA 02124
  • Contact:
    PARKS AND RECREATION
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    Dorchester
    Mattapan
  • Event Type:
  • Published Date
Event Date2025-07-08T10:00:00 - 2025-07-08T12:00:00

Our arts and crafts workshops are led by local artists. They're held Tuesday through Friday in July and August and run from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. These drop-in workshops encourage kids to explore their creativity through projects like mask making, crayon art, watercolor and much more. Supplies are provided, but you'll need to bring your creativity! 

This series is completely free and open to Boston residents. These workshops will take place in various parks throughout the City of Boston.

Registration is encouraged so we know how many supplies to bring (pre-registration is required for groups of 8 or more). Please email allison.singer2@boston.gov to register.

This series is also weather-dependent. Check our social media pages for updated weather info regarding this series. Follow us on social media for the latest updates on events: TwitterFacebook, and Instagram.

July 8, 2025
  • 10:00am - 12:00pm
    Repeats weekly on Tuesday, starting from July 8, 2025, until July 22, 2025
  • Harambee Park
    930 Blue Hill Avenue
    Boston , MA 02124
  • Contact:
    PARKS AND RECREATION
  • Price:
    Price
    FREE
  • Neighborhood:
    Neighborhood
    Dorchester
    Mattapan
  • Event Type:
  • Published Date
Event Date2025-07-08T10:00:00 - 2025-07-08T12:00:00
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