City of Boston Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Kick-off Cinco de Mayo celebrations on Friday with special programming from 12:30pm to 3:30pm in downtown crossing in partnership with the Consulate General of Mexico in Boston. The public is invited to a free celebration of traditional Mexican music and dance as well as artist showcases, a craft fair and giveaways from Topo Chico. If you’re looking to celebrate in the neighborhood, don’t miss our Dorchester Cinco de Mayo roundup here!
Blend in Support of YPACS Drag Brunch
Brunching for a cause at Blend! Serving looks and raising funds for the Boston Hope Ledge featuring amazing queens and exciting auction items on Sunday from 11am-3pm! Make your reservations today here!
Storytelling Open Mic at Home.stead
Community storytelling group Now Listen Here is bringing back its signature live open mic night to Home.stead bakery and cafe on Friday evening from 8pm to 9:45pm. The theme of this week’s event is “true stories of lying and liars.” Participants are invited to share a short personal story about lying and the consequences that followed. Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 at the door.
Derby Parties!
Ladies and gentlemen, grab your hats and dress in your Sunday best for a special Kentucky Derby Party at The Dot Tavern on Saturday at 4pm. Stop by to enjoy some southern food and delicious mint juleps. There will be a best-dressed contest as well as a 50/50 raffle. A portion of proceeds benefit the Dorchester Day Parade. Boston Harbor Distillery is also hosting a derby viewing party with Putnam Whiskey on Saturday from 3pm to 8pm.
Chinese Lion Dance
Bring the whole family to marvel at Boston’s Gund Kwok, the only all-women lion dance troupe in the US, during a special free performance at the JFK Presidential Library and Museum this Saturday at 10:30am. Using strong but light materials like papier-mâché and bamboo, the detailed costumes with beautifully choreographed movements empower Asian women to show their creativity, power, and strength through centuries-old Lion Dances and dynamic drumming. The family-friendly event is appropriate for family audiences and children ages 5 and up.
We’ll eat to that! Meatballs for Murphy
American Provisions in Dorchester is selling a very special meatball sandwich to benefit the Murphy School! This delicious sandwich is made with homemade marinara sauce, topped with cheese and basil on a toasted ciabatta roll! Don’t eat meat? Don’t worry! You can order a Murphy’s Roasted Veggie Sub with zucchini, squash, and peppers on ciabatta roll. $1 from each Murphy sandwich sold through May 12th will be donated to the Murphy School!
Open Streets Dorchester
This year Dorchester’s Open Streets will take place between Ashmont Street and Linden Street from 10:30am to 5pm on Sunday. The half-day event allows local businesses to expand into the street creating a pedestrian paradise! Many local organizations will have a presence with family friendly activities, food, music, fun, giveaways and more. For example, Boston Little Saigon invites families to their stroller safari global adventure parade at 12pm. Deck out your stroller, bike or wagon and come dressed in animal costumes for your chance to win prizes.
SPORTS
Do or Die! Bruins vs. Leafs – Game 7 Saturday May 4th!
Red Sox vs. Twins, Friday May 3rd at 8pm, Saturday May 4th at 2pm, and Sunday May 5th at 2pm.
If you’re watching the game this weekend, check out our list of 10 places to catch the action in Dot, or check out 12 of our favorites in South Boston!
Check back! This list may be updated.
What else is going on around Dot this weekend? Let us know by leaving a comment below.
Angela Hernandez is a freelance writer and communications professional who is passionate about showcasing the fun, caring and inclusive community that is Dorchester. Imported from Detroit, she’s been getting lost in Boston since January of 2020. Sometimes a runner and always a brunch fan, you can usually find her at Carson Beach or the Harp + Bard, depending on the day. Follow her on Instagram @Ang7690