Eat well. Give back. Celebrate Dorchester

Participate before it ends! Looking for a good excuse to grab dinner or a drink in Dorchester? Dine Out DOT is a new fundraising incentive,  giving neighbors the chance to support local restaurants while also helping raise money for the beloved Dorchester Day Parade. Organizers say the fundraiser is all about celebrating the neighborhood and shining a spotlight on the restaurants that help make Dorchester such a vibrant community. Participating restaurants will support parade fundraising efforts over the next few weeks, so every meal out helps give back.  Takes place May 7-31st! Get all the details here!

Get Moving! Free Fitness in the City!

The Boston Parks and Recreation Department and the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) are pleased to announce the 2026 Boston Parks Summer Fitness Series sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. The series offers 22 free weekly classes in City of Boston parks from May 3 to August 29, 2026. The series offers a wide range of classes, including Yoga, Chair Yoga, HIIT,  ZUMBA®, Kick It By Eliza®, Walking Group, Strength and Balance, Line Dancing, Barre Fusion, and Latin Fusion Dance. The program is tailored to residents’ and participants’ interests, including age-friendly classes for families, older adults, and those new to fitness classes. For more information and a link to the full schedule, visit boston.gov/fitness.

Colin’s Joy Project Mother’s Day to Father’s Day Drive

Support a family that has lost a child by purchasing items from the Amazon wish list between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. All items will be donated to MGFC’s Pediatric Bereavement Program. You can check out the wishlist here. 

Ain’t no party like a summer block party!

Just a reminder that applications are still open for the Mayor’s Office of Civic Organizing’s Summer Block Party Grant! As Boston celebrates Boston 250 and prepares to welcome the global community for the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, the City is eager to showcase its community spirit, shared fandom, and the vibrant energy of its neighborhoods. Summer block parties strengthen Boston’s ongoing commitment to being a City of Belonging and foster a fun, safe, and healthy summer in Boston. Residents and community groups who apply for a block party grant can receive up to $750 to purchase food, party supplies, lawn games, and other items for summer block parties to make it easier and more affordable for neighborhoods to hold community gatherings. Last year, the Office of Civic Organizing (OCO) provided 113 grants to residents and community groups hosting block parties. Get all the details here.

Calling all birdwatchers!

Looking for a weekend adventure that mixes hiking, birdwatching, and a little local exploration? The Franklin Park Coalition has you covered with a free Bird Hike through one of Boston’s biggest green spaces on Saturday, May 31st, from 8am-10am. Led by “Nature Man Mike” and the Franklin Park crew, this guided walk will take participants through some of the park’s most scenic spots.  Beginners are more than welcome (and encouraged!) to join. No registration is needed — just show up, bring your curiosity, and if you have them, a pair of binoculars. A few loaners will be available on-site.  Get all the details here.