Tag: July 4th

At the Market: July 4th Food Shopping

Shopping for fresh, local food for your holiday picnic, party, or a quiet dinner at home for July 4th can start at your local farmers' market. By now, most summer markets in the area are open or about to open. Here is our list of opening dates and schedules for the major markets around the center of Boston.

Beyond Burgers

We've been reporting on seafood options at the markets this season. You'll find stands from Red's Best, C & C Lobsters, Global Seafood, and Cape Cod Fish Share at markets around the area.

For a small feast, you might consider making Farmers' Market Lobster Rolls. Our recipe is at that link.

And, if you make it ahead, you might include a bit of the South in your Boston celebration with some pulled pork or chili with full-flavored pork from Stillman's. Or, if you're making burgers, grill some great lamb burgers with their ground lamb as a flavor option.

The Word from the Farms and Markets

Lily Carone from Atlas Farm says, "The strawberry picking will be done after the weekend – possibly not making another appearance at Copley on Tuesday. But blueberries from River Valley Farm are very close behind! (Maybe in time for the 4th!)" and "Tender, sweet broccoli is on the stand now – along with the different varieties of beets & carrots! It's been a long wait, and the carrots are sweeter than I remembered!"

Ben Sommer, Copley Square Farmers' Market Manager said, " This past week at the market I spied the first glimpse of summer squash, hiding out amongst the luscious greens, adding a splash of yellow to the farmer's display. That burst of yellow is a sign of summer and a hopeful symbol for the sun, which has been sorely missed these past few weeks."

Ben added, "Another sign of summer is over at Hamilton's Orchard's tent, where you can grab an ice cool lemonade and lay on the grass with other sunbathers in the heart of the city. The farmers have a practice of adding some fresh strawberries to these lemonades and shaking them up to get that added sweetness and flavor."

In Season, Right Now!

Eggs, meat, and fish are always in-season and available at more markets.

We also saw: tatsoi, cut herbs (cilantro, parsley, basil, and dill), hakurei turnips, fennel, broccoli, mushrooms, garlic scrapes, salad mix, lettuce, arugula, radishes, beets, scallions, kolrabi, bok choi, chard, small onions with green tops, snap peas, sweet peas, herbs, hot house tomatoes, and honey.

Get Some Before It's Gone!

Marshall's farm tweeted, "The last of our own Asparagus so make sure you get your fill."

Strawberries! Enjoy them now this could be the final week for some farms.

And, the rhubarb to match with the strawberries will soon disappear.

Coming Soon!

Blueberries and early raspberries – Peter Ward, Market Manager at Central Square, Cambridge said, he expected to see some raspberries (variety Prelude) this week.

And, as we reported last week, Barbara Hamilton from Hamilton Orchards hoped to have ripe berries around the Fourth of July.

Follow all our Local Food/Farmers' Markets and At The Market reports:

What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List? Shop Amazon for all your Kitchen & Dining needs and support this site!

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

July 2, 2013
At the Market: July 4th Food Shopping

Shopping for fresh, local food for your holiday picnic, party, or a quiet dinner at home for July 4th can start at your local farmers' market. By now, most summer markets in the area are open or about to open. Here is our list of opening dates and schedules for the major markets around the center of Boston.

Beyond Burgers

We've been reporting on seafood options at the markets this season. You'll find stands from Red's Best, C & C Lobsters, Global Seafood, and Cape Cod Fish Share at markets around the area.

For a small feast, you might consider making Farmers' Market Lobster Rolls. Our recipe is at that link.

And, if you make it ahead, you might include a bit of the South in your Boston celebration with some pulled pork or chili with full-flavored pork from Stillman's. Or, if you're making burgers, grill some great lamb burgers with their ground lamb as a flavor option.

The Word from the Farms and Markets

Lily Carone from Atlas Farm says, "The strawberry picking will be done after the weekend – possibly not making another appearance at Copley on Tuesday. But blueberries from River Valley Farm are very close behind! (Maybe in time for the 4th!)" and "Tender, sweet broccoli is on the stand now – along with the different varieties of beets & carrots! It's been a long wait, and the carrots are sweeter than I remembered!"

Ben Sommer, Copley Square Farmers' Market Manager said, " This past week at the market I spied the first glimpse of summer squash, hiding out amongst the luscious greens, adding a splash of yellow to the farmer's display. That burst of yellow is a sign of summer and a hopeful symbol for the sun, which has been sorely missed these past few weeks."

Ben added, "Another sign of summer is over at Hamilton's Orchard's tent, where you can grab an ice cool lemonade and lay on the grass with other sunbathers in the heart of the city. The farmers have a practice of adding some fresh strawberries to these lemonades and shaking them up to get that added sweetness and flavor."

In Season, Right Now!

Eggs, meat, and fish are always in-season and available at more markets.

We also saw: tatsoi, cut herbs (cilantro, parsley, basil, and dill), hakurei turnips, fennel, broccoli, mushrooms, garlic scrapes, salad mix, lettuce, arugula, radishes, beets, scallions, kolrabi, bok choi, chard, small onions with green tops, snap peas, sweet peas, herbs, hot house tomatoes, and honey.

Get Some Before It's Gone!

Marshall's farm tweeted, "The last of our own Asparagus so make sure you get your fill."

Strawberries! Enjoy them now this could be the final week for some farms.

And, the rhubarb to match with the strawberries will soon disappear.

Coming Soon!

Blueberries and early raspberries – Peter Ward, Market Manager at Central Square, Cambridge said, he expected to see some raspberries (variety Prelude) this week.

And, as we reported last week, Barbara Hamilton from Hamilton Orchards hoped to have ripe berries around the Fourth of July.

Follow all our Local Food/Farmers' Markets and At The Market reports:

What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List? Shop Amazon for all your Kitchen & Dining needs and support this site!

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: ©2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino

Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

July 2, 2013
Poppy & the Poppies and the July 4th POP, POP, POPS

Hello there Boston Dogs, Duchess Poppy here!

I haven't been in Boston for a July 4th Celebration before, I hear it's going to be noisy. And, I do not like noise! I like things, cool, calm, and quiet.

From what I have been able to figure out, there will be lots of flashing lights in the sky and big booms going off along the river. I'm planning on staying home, but the older dogs in the hood tell me that it will make my building shake.

I found a bunch of tips Over on PetFinder about preparing for big parties like this.

Tap your paw or click on the poster for easier reading.

And, just in case you were wondering, dogs and cats are not allowed at the Boston Pops Concert on the Esplanade. Only official, working, or service animals may attend. (But, I don't know why any of us would want to go to this noisy, crowded place. Besides, we would only distract the police dogs who have important work that day.)

Have a safe and Happy July 4th!

Duchess Poppy Whitehead

P.S. Here's a link to all our Sunday Dogs. I'm in charge of recruiting the talent for these features, so let me know if you want to star some week.

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a Birthday or Wedding gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

Details:

Words: Duchess Poppy Whitehead (Edited by Ed)
Photography: © 2013 Penny Cherubino

June 30, 2013
Poppy & the Poppies and the July 4th POP, POP, POPS

Hello there Boston Dogs, Duchess Poppy here!

I haven't been in Boston for a July 4th Celebration before, I hear it's going to be noisy. And, I do not like noise! I like things, cool, calm, and quiet.

From what I have been able to figure out, there will be lots of flashing lights in the sky and big booms going off along the river. I'm planning on staying home, but the older dogs in the hood tell me that it will make my building shake.

I found a bunch of tips Over on PetFinder about preparing for big parties like this.

Tap your paw or click on the poster for easier reading.

And, just in case you were wondering, dogs and cats are not allowed at the Boston Pops Concert on the Esplanade. Only official, working, or service animals may attend. (But, I don't know why any of us would want to go to this noisy, crowded place. Besides, we would only distract the police dogs who have important work that day.)

Have a safe and Happy July 4th!

Duchess Poppy Whitehead

P.S. Here's a link to all our Sunday Dogs. I'm in charge of recruiting the talent for these features, so let me know if you want to star some week.

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a Birthday or Wedding gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

Details:

Words: Duchess Poppy Whitehead (Edited by Ed)
Photography: © 2013 Penny Cherubino

June 30, 2013
Poppy & the Poppies and the July 4th POP, POP, POPS

Hello there Boston Dogs, Duchess Poppy here!

I haven't been in Boston for a July 4th Celebration before, I hear it's going to be noisy. And, I do not like noise! I like things, cool, calm, and quiet.

From what I have been able to figure out, there will be lots of flashing lights in the sky and big booms going off along the river. I'm planning on staying home, but the older dogs in the hood tell me that it will make my building shake.

I found a bunch of tips Over on PetFinder about preparing for big parties like this.

Tap your paw or click on the poster for easier reading.

And, just in case you were wondering, dogs and cats are not allowed at the Boston Pops Concert on the Esplanade. Only official, working, or service animals may attend. (But, I don't know why any of us would want to go to this noisy, crowded place. Besides, we would only distract the police dogs who have important work that day.)

Have a safe and Happy July 4th!

Duchess Poppy Whitehead

P.S. Here's a link to all our Sunday Dogs. I'm in charge of recruiting the talent for these features, so let me know if you want to star some week.

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a Birthday or Wedding gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

Details:

Words: Duchess Poppy Whitehead (Edited by Ed)
Photography: © 2013 Penny Cherubino

June 30, 2013
Clear Plastic Bags for Big Events Like July 4th

In this age of heightened security people attending large events, like July 4th on the Esplanade, are asked to bring personal belongings in approved clear, plastic bags. While this original post is from a few years ago we have updated it in July 2017 for what's available from Amazon that should work.

Naturally, we can't speak for the authorities but as long as they can clearly see what's inside and it fits all the other requirements, (for example: no backpacks) these items might work. We're just using common sense and hoping the people at the checkpoints will do the same.

The EastSport Large, Clear Tote Bag (pictured at the top) looks ideal. It gets good reviews on Amazon and the shoulder strap and pocket make it perfect for walking into an event. It zips shut to help keep your stuff dry if it rains, and it looks like it would stand up next to you easily.

This Large, Clear Lunch Bag would work if you're going to bring just a couple of things with you.

Skip the ones with any design, other than handles or trim, and tuck a clear, plastic garbage bag inside in case things get really wet.

And, as we discovered as we explored this option, there are other places that require clear plastic for security checks before you enter restricted areas but do allow transparent backpacks like the one above.

Amazon has other choices and if you order quickly, you might be able to get one in time for July 4th. Or, order it now and be ready for future events.

If you know where neighbors could buy a clear tote like this locally, please add a comment. Some readers may not find this in time to get one for the 4th.

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a Birthday or Wedding gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photography: Courtesy of Amazon

Related articles

What's Open on July 4th, 2013 in Boston, Parking, Trash & MBTA Schedules

L.A. Becomes The Most Populous City In The Nation To Ban Plastic Bags

June 26, 2013
Clear Plastic Bags for Big Events Like July 4th

In this age of heightened security people attending large events, like July 4th on the Esplanade, are asked to bring personal belongings in approved clear, plastic bags. While this original post is from a few years ago we have updated it in July 2017 for what's available from Amazon that should work.

Naturally, we can't speak for the authorities but as long as they can clearly see what's inside and it fits all the other requirements, (for example: no backpacks) these items might work. We're just using common sense and hoping the people at the checkpoints will do the same.

The EastSport Large, Clear Tote Bag (pictured at the top) looks ideal. It gets good reviews on Amazon and the shoulder strap and pocket make it perfect for walking into an event. It zips shut to help keep your stuff dry if it rains, and it looks like it would stand up next to you easily.

This Large, Clear Lunch Bag would work if you're going to bring just a couple of things with you.

Skip the ones with any design, other than handles or trim, and tuck a clear, plastic garbage bag inside in case things get really wet.

And, as we discovered as we explored this option, there are other places that require clear plastic for security checks before you enter restricted areas but do allow transparent backpacks like the one above.

Amazon has other choices and if you order quickly, you might be able to get one in time for July 4th. Or, order it now and be ready for future events.

If you know where neighbors could buy a clear tote like this locally, please add a comment. Some readers may not find this in time to get one for the 4th.

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a Birthday or Wedding gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photography: Courtesy of Amazon

Related articles

What's Open on July 4th, 2013 in Boston, Parking, Trash & MBTA Schedules

L.A. Becomes The Most Populous City In The Nation To Ban Plastic Bags

June 26, 2013
Clear Plastic Bags for Big Events Like July 4th

In this age of heightened security people attending large events, like July 4th on the Esplanade, are asked to bring personal belongings in approved clear, plastic bags. While this original post is from a few years ago we have updated it in July 2017 for what's available from Amazon that should work.

Naturally, we can't speak for the authorities but as long as they can clearly see what's inside and it fits all the other requirements, (for example: no backpacks) these items might work. We're just using common sense and hoping the people at the checkpoints will do the same.

The EastSport Large, Clear Tote Bag (pictured at the top) looks ideal. It gets good reviews on Amazon and the shoulder strap and pocket make it perfect for walking into an event. It zips shut to help keep your stuff dry if it rains, and it looks like it would stand up next to you easily.

This Large, Clear Lunch Bag would work if you're going to bring just a couple of things with you.

Skip the ones with any design, other than handles or trim, and tuck a clear, plastic garbage bag inside in case things get really wet.

And, as we discovered as we explored this option, there are other places that require clear plastic for security checks before you enter restricted areas but do allow transparent backpacks like the one above.

Amazon has other choices and if you order quickly, you might be able to get one in time for July 4th. Or, order it now and be ready for future events.

If you know where neighbors could buy a clear tote like this locally, please add a comment. Some readers may not find this in time to get one for the 4th.

Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a Birthday or Wedding gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photography: Courtesy of Amazon

Related articles

What's Open on July 4th, 2013 in Boston, Parking, Trash & MBTA Schedules

L.A. Becomes The Most Populous City In The Nation To Ban Plastic Bags

June 26, 2013
What’s Open on July 4th, 2013 in Boston, Parking, Trash & MBTA Schedules

Here's a rundown of what's Open & Closed in Boston on Monday, July 4th, 2013 and changes to MBTA schedules. Plus parking, street sweeping, trash, recycling and other useful links.

This is an old post. Here's a link is the 2015 resource page for July 4th:

What's Open on July 4th, 2015 in Boston, Parking, Trash & MBTA Schedules

We publish these reminders before a holiday to help you make your plans, and we update the information as more official word is released. Follow us on Twitter to be notified of updates or save this page for future reference.

We suspect that there will be new security measures that will change the way many of us have taken part in the July 4th celebrations. We will continue to update this post with links to new notices as they become available.

Update on Security Measures & Road Closures.

IMPORTANT PARKING UPDATE 07.03.13: Here is a link to the City of Boston Street Closures and parking restrictions. Move your cars now!

There are two places to go for the latest on Security Measures and Road Closures.

The state's page on the topic where you can download pdfs of the information.

The official Boston's July 4th site's Event Information Page.

Photo: John Schinker used under this creative commons license. Here's a link to his wonderful July 4th photostream!

Restaurants, bars: Open

Update 07/01/13: From Eater Boston a great list of specific restaurants that are open or closed on July 4th. Thanks to Eater Boston editor, Rachael Leah Blumenthal for putting this together for all of us.

Convenience stores: Open

Supermarkets: Open

Retail stores: Are allowed to open, if the owners choose.

Liquor stores: Open

City, Town, State and Federal offices and facilities: Closed. This includes: Schools, Libraries, and the Postal Service (express mail will be delivered). Only emergency services are available.

Financial Services: As the British would say, this is a "Bank Holiday" with both banks and the stock markets in the United States closed. Some international markets are open. Also, some banks may open certain branch offices– often those inside supermarkets. Check with your own financial institution for details.

Photo: John Schinker used under this creative commons license.

Boston Parking: You don't have to feed the meters. Other parking rules apply. There will be some temporary parking restrictions and some street closures in the areas surrounding the Charles River Esplanade on July 4th. We'll add updates as they are published.

Towed Cars: The City says, "If you believe your vehicle was towed in Boston, then call either the Boston Police Tow Line at 617-343-4629 or the Boston Tow Lot at 617-635-3900 to locate the vehicle, or search the online towing database by license plate" at the City's Towed Car page. Update: the city says the tow lot will be open on July 4th.

Here's a screengrab from www.cityofboston.gov. Click for a larger pop-up view.

Street Sweeping: The City says, "Daytime street sweeping is suspended on city holidays, but nighttime sweeping schedules remain in effect. Constituents are advised to call 617-635-4500 for exact details."

Boston Trash: from the City Site:

"Thursday July 4, 2013, Delay trash and recycling collection a day only if you live in South Boston, Allston, Brighton, Dorchester, East Boston, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain*, Mattapan, Roslindale, or West Roxbury AND your trash and recycling is normally collected on Thursday or Friday.

*If you live in Jamaica Plain and your trash is picked up 2 times per week, do not delay."

Here are some of our related posts about July 4th, the Charles RIver, and the Esplanade

    How to Get to the Esplanade from Boston ( see the new access points at the links above)

    Once Grand, Now Unnoticed

    Charles River Clean Up Boat Update

MBTA Schedule Changes- They say, "Fares will be free after 9:30 p.m."

The MBTA website has July 4th schedule information posted on their events page through the holiday. Follow us on Twitter to be notified of updates. "Fares will be free after 9:30 p.m."

Subways and the Silver line will "…operate a Sunday schedule with rush-hour levels of service beginning at 2 p.m. to accommodate holiday ridership and will operate extended late-night hours as Fourth of July is on a Saturday.

Details for the Commuter Rail will run on a Saturday schedule. The last trains to leave Boston are on the MBTA Events Page and in the download below.

Buses and trackless trolleys will run on a Sunday schedule. This means some buses will not operate.

You can download a pdf copy of the schedule details here:

Download MBTA July 4th

MBTA tips for those attending the Esplande Concert and Fireworks:

Customers are urged to take public transportation to and from Fourth of July events and advised to check T-Alerts for the most up-to-date service information during the holiday.

As a reminder, bicycles are not allowed on any subway lines for the entire day on the Fourth of July. Bicycles are also prohibited on inbound Commuter Rail trains from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. as well as on outbound trains after 4 p.m.

Beginning at 2 p.m., subway service on all lines will operate at rush-hour levels to accommodate increased holiday ridership. Fares will be free after 9:30 p.m.

Customers should also note that all MBTA parking garages and the Wellington Station lot will be pay-on-entry and cash-only on the Fourth of July in order to ensure all customers exit in a timely manner. Due to heavy parking demand, some MBTA parking garages and lots may fill more quickly than normal. Customers planning to park in an MBTA garage or lot should plan accordingly.

Save storage space with these collapsible coolers. They're perfect for small city homes. We have an older version of the Arctic Zone 30 model, and it's amazing at keeping things chilled! We not only use it for picnics but grab it to go grocery shopping.

Details:

Writers: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: By John Schinker used under this creative commons license. Here's a link to his wonderful July 4th photostream!

June 18, 2013
What’s Open on July 4th, 2013 in Boston, Parking, Trash & MBTA Schedules

Here's a rundown of what's Open & Closed in Boston on Monday, July 4th, 2013 and changes to MBTA schedules. Plus parking, street sweeping, trash, recycling and other useful links.

This is an old post. Here's a link is the 2015 resource page for July 4th:

What's Open on July 4th, 2015 in Boston, Parking, Trash & MBTA Schedules

We publish these reminders before a holiday to help you make your plans, and we update the information as more official word is released. Follow us on Twitter to be notified of updates or save this page for future reference.

We suspect that there will be new security measures that will change the way many of us have taken part in the July 4th celebrations. We will continue to update this post with links to new notices as they become available.

Update on Security Measures & Road Closures.

IMPORTANT PARKING UPDATE 07.03.13: Here is a link to the City of Boston Street Closures and parking restrictions. Move your cars now!

There are two places to go for the latest on Security Measures and Road Closures.

The state's page on the topic where you can download pdfs of the information.

The official Boston's July 4th site's Event Information Page.

Photo: John Schinker used under this creative commons license. Here's a link to his wonderful July 4th photostream!

Restaurants, bars: Open

Update 07/01/13: From Eater Boston a great list of specific restaurants that are open or closed on July 4th. Thanks to Eater Boston editor, Rachael Leah Blumenthal for putting this together for all of us.

Convenience stores: Open

Supermarkets: Open

Retail stores: Are allowed to open, if the owners choose.

Liquor stores: Open

City, Town, State and Federal offices and facilities: Closed. This includes: Schools, Libraries, and the Postal Service (express mail will be delivered). Only emergency services are available.

Financial Services: As the British would say, this is a "Bank Holiday" with both banks and the stock markets in the United States closed. Some international markets are open. Also, some banks may open certain branch offices– often those inside supermarkets. Check with your own financial institution for details.

Photo: John Schinker used under this creative commons license.

Boston Parking: You don't have to feed the meters. Other parking rules apply. There will be some temporary parking restrictions and some street closures in the areas surrounding the Charles River Esplanade on July 4th. We'll add updates as they are published.

Towed Cars: The City says, "If you believe your vehicle was towed in Boston, then call either the Boston Police Tow Line at 617-343-4629 or the Boston Tow Lot at 617-635-3900 to locate the vehicle, or search the online towing database by license plate" at the City's Towed Car page. Update: the city says the tow lot will be open on July 4th.

Here's a screengrab from www.cityofboston.gov. Click for a larger pop-up view.

Street Sweeping: The City says, "Daytime street sweeping is suspended on city holidays, but nighttime sweeping schedules remain in effect. Constituents are advised to call 617-635-4500 for exact details."

Boston Trash: from the City Site:

"Thursday July 4, 2013, Delay trash and recycling collection a day only if you live in South Boston, Allston, Brighton, Dorchester, East Boston, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain*, Mattapan, Roslindale, or West Roxbury AND your trash and recycling is normally collected on Thursday or Friday.

*If you live in Jamaica Plain and your trash is picked up 2 times per week, do not delay."

Here are some of our related posts about July 4th, the Charles RIver, and the Esplanade

    How to Get to the Esplanade from Boston ( see the new access points at the links above)

    Once Grand, Now Unnoticed

    Charles River Clean Up Boat Update

MBTA Schedule Changes- They say, "Fares will be free after 9:30 p.m."

The MBTA website has July 4th schedule information posted on their events page through the holiday. Follow us on Twitter to be notified of updates. "Fares will be free after 9:30 p.m."

Subways and the Silver line will "…operate a Sunday schedule with rush-hour levels of service beginning at 2 p.m. to accommodate holiday ridership and will operate extended late-night hours as Fourth of July is on a Saturday.

Details for the Commuter Rail will run on a Saturday schedule. The last trains to leave Boston are on the MBTA Events Page and in the download below.

Buses and trackless trolleys will run on a Sunday schedule. This means some buses will not operate.

You can download a pdf copy of the schedule details here:

Download MBTA July 4th

MBTA tips for those attending the Esplande Concert and Fireworks:

Customers are urged to take public transportation to and from Fourth of July events and advised to check T-Alerts for the most up-to-date service information during the holiday.

As a reminder, bicycles are not allowed on any subway lines for the entire day on the Fourth of July. Bicycles are also prohibited on inbound Commuter Rail trains from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. as well as on outbound trains after 4 p.m.

Beginning at 2 p.m., subway service on all lines will operate at rush-hour levels to accommodate increased holiday ridership. Fares will be free after 9:30 p.m.

Customers should also note that all MBTA parking garages and the Wellington Station lot will be pay-on-entry and cash-only on the Fourth of July in order to ensure all customers exit in a timely manner. Due to heavy parking demand, some MBTA parking garages and lots may fill more quickly than normal. Customers planning to park in an MBTA garage or lot should plan accordingly.

Save storage space with these collapsible coolers. They're perfect for small city homes. We have an older version of the Arctic Zone 30 model, and it's amazing at keeping things chilled! We not only use it for picnics but grab it to go grocery shopping.

Details:

Writers: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photos: By John Schinker used under this creative commons license. Here's a link to his wonderful July 4th photostream!

June 18, 2013