bostonzest

Tag: MBTA

  • Flu Vaccination Information Update for 2013 – 2014 Season

    IStock_000010863371Small

    UPDATE: Latest Flu Vaccination Information … Boston Area Resources to Find a Flu Shot

    Here's the latest Flu Shot information. We've compiled a list of sources to help in your search for, and understanding of, this season's vaccination.

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reminds us that, “There are several flu vaccine options for the 2013-2014 flu season.” Besides the usual trivalent vaccine designed to protect against three different flu viruses, there’s a quadrivalent vaccine meant to protect against four different flu viruses – plus, additional choices within each group. >>More Information Here

    In this post, you'll also find assistance from federal, state, and local authorities – including medical institutions and retail stores. There are sites to track flu activity, plus suggestions that could help save you time and money.

    As always, check with your doctor or other healthcare professionals for any flu-related advice.  

    Do federal, state, and city health officials have any updates on flu or flu vaccinations?

    Where can I get a flu vaccination in the Boston area?

    • Here's a search box made available to us by the U.S. Department of Health. Just enter your Zip Code, hit go, and you'll have a map of options.  


    Where can I get a flu vaccination in the surrounding area?

    More information below the ad.

    Whether you're waiting in line for a flu shot or taking an easy day with a headcold, an Amazon Kindle makes a great companion. Buy new books on the fly, dig into your archive to re-read old favorites. And, thank you to everyone who supports the compiling of information like this by beginning all their Amazon shopping from BostonZest. It doesn't cost you a penny more, but it does put a few pennies in our pockets.

    What's the level of flu activity in our area?

    More details below...

    • Some Pharmacies have flu vaccine, including CVS,  Walgreens, and  RiteAid.
    • If you haven't checked lately, this might be a good time to consult with your primary care physician for the latest flu shot information.
    • Whichever flu shot location you choose, we recommend that you call the site directly before going.

    Here's a link to information on caring for someone with the flu and preventing the spread of the disease.

     And, for a friend suffering from a bad cold or the flu, remember Chicken Soup for a Sick Friend!

    Follow us on Twitter for alerts when we update this article.

    Details:
    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photo Credit: James Gathany, courtesy of  the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

    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.

    Related articles
    Good Question: When Is The Best Time To Get The Flu Shot?
    Which New Flu Vaccines Are Right for You?
    Flu Season Is Here–Vaccinate to Protect You and Your Loved Ones from Flu

  • What’s Open on Columbus Day 2013 in Boston, MBTA Schedule Changes, Parking, Trash & More

    Here's a rundown of what's open and closed in Boston on Columbus Day and changes to MBTA schedules for October 14, 2013. As the information becomes available, we'll also update you on parking, street sweeping, traffic alerts, road closures, parades, and trash collection.

    Update: Here's the link to the 2015 version of this information.

    What's Open & Closed in Boston on Columbus Day  2015 Plus Trash, Parking, MBTA Schedules & More.

    We publish these reminders before each holiday to help our readers make their holiday plans.

    Open doors fenway 2014

    This is one of those holidays when, for a lot of people, it's "business as usual." Even the stock market is open. But, if you have the day off, you might enjoy a visit to the Opening Our Doors 2014 in the Fenway Cultural District.

    What's open?

    Restaurants, bars: Open

    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 are 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 most Banks closed. But, each year more banks decide to keep a few branches open. Check with your own bank. 

    Stock market: Open as are international markets.

    Boston Parking, Trash, Etc.

    Boston Parking: City website says, "Free parking at all city meters. All other rules apply.

    Street Sweeping: City website says, "Daytime street sweeping is suspended on city holidays, but nighttime sweeping schedules remain in effect."

    Boston Trash Collection: From this page on the city site.

    "Monday October 14, 2013

    No Delay of trash or recycling collection in Back Bay, Bay Village, Beacon Hill, Charlestown, Chinatown, Fenway, Leather District, Mission Hill, North End, Roxbury, South Boston, and the South End.

    Delay trash and recycling collection a day only if you live in Allston, Brighton, Dorchester, East Boston, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain*, Mattapan, Roslindale, or West Roxbury.

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

    Traffic Alerts/Road closures: More will be added as we are made aware of them.

    • Columbus Day Parade – Sunday, October 13th in the North End.
    • BAA Half Marathon – Sunday, October 13th from White Stadium in Franklin Park. Here's the official site for that event.
    • DCR Memorial Drive Road Closure Western Ave to Mt Auburn Street – Sunday October 7th.
    • Tufts 10 K – Monday October 14th – Road closures in the Back Bay and Cambridge. Here's the site for details.

    MBTA Columbus Day Schedules 2013 (updated 10/03/13)

    The MBTA has announced schedules for Columbus Day, Monday, October 14, 2013. The service schedules varied from Saturday, to modified Saturday, and regular weekday, to modified weekday. For a few days before and after the holiday, schedule details will show up at this link.

    Remember the links for details will only work through the holiday then that page reverts to a generic form.

    For additional information on routes, schedules, and fares, contact the MBTA at (617) 222-3200, TTY 617-222-5146, or visit them at: www.mbta.com.

    Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Art from The Fenway Cultural District 

    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.

  • What’s Open on Columbus Day 2013 in Boston, MBTA Schedule Changes, Parking, Trash & More

    Here's a rundown of what's open and closed in Boston on Columbus Day and changes to MBTA schedules for October 14, 2013. As the information becomes available, we'll also update you on parking, street sweeping, traffic alerts, road closures, parades, and trash collection.

    Update: Here's the link to the 2015 version of this information.

    What's Open & Closed in Boston on Columbus Day  2015 Plus Trash, Parking, MBTA Schedules & More.

    We publish these reminders before each holiday to help our readers make their holiday plans.

    Open doors fenway 2014

    This is one of those holidays when, for a lot of people, it's "business as usual." Even the stock market is open. But, if you have the day off, you might enjoy a visit to the Opening Our Doors 2014 in the Fenway Cultural District.

    What's open?

    Restaurants, bars: Open

    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 are 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 most Banks closed. But, each year more banks decide to keep a few branches open. Check with your own bank. 

    Stock market: Open as are international markets.

    Boston Parking, Trash, Etc.

    Boston Parking: City website says, "Free parking at all city meters. All other rules apply.

    Street Sweeping: City website says, "Daytime street sweeping is suspended on city holidays, but nighttime sweeping schedules remain in effect."

    Boston Trash Collection: From this page on the city site.

    "Monday October 14, 2013

    No Delay of trash or recycling collection in Back Bay, Bay Village, Beacon Hill, Charlestown, Chinatown, Fenway, Leather District, Mission Hill, North End, Roxbury, South Boston, and the South End.

    Delay trash and recycling collection a day only if you live in Allston, Brighton, Dorchester, East Boston, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain*, Mattapan, Roslindale, or West Roxbury.

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

    Traffic Alerts/Road closures: More will be added as we are made aware of them.

    • Columbus Day Parade – Sunday, October 13th in the North End.
    • BAA Half Marathon – Sunday, October 13th from White Stadium in Franklin Park. Here's the official site for that event.
    • DCR Memorial Drive Road Closure Western Ave to Mt Auburn Street – Sunday October 7th.
    • Tufts 10 K – Monday October 14th – Road closures in the Back Bay and Cambridge. Here's the site for details.

    MBTA Columbus Day Schedules 2013 (updated 10/03/13)

    The MBTA has announced schedules for Columbus Day, Monday, October 14, 2013. The service schedules varied from Saturday, to modified Saturday, and regular weekday, to modified weekday. For a few days before and after the holiday, schedule details will show up at this link.

    Remember the links for details will only work through the holiday then that page reverts to a generic form.

    For additional information on routes, schedules, and fares, contact the MBTA at (617) 222-3200, TTY 617-222-5146, or visit them at: www.mbta.com.

    Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Art from The Fenway Cultural District 

    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.

  • What’s Open on Columbus Day 2013 in Boston, MBTA Schedule Changes, Parking, Trash & More

    Here's a rundown of what's open and closed in Boston on Columbus Day and changes to MBTA schedules for October 14, 2013. As the information becomes available, we'll also update you on parking, street sweeping, traffic alerts, road closures, parades, and trash collection.

    Update: Here's the link to the 2015 version of this information.

    What's Open & Closed in Boston on Columbus Day  2015 Plus Trash, Parking, MBTA Schedules & More.

    We publish these reminders before each holiday to help our readers make their holiday plans.

    Open doors fenway 2014

    This is one of those holidays when, for a lot of people, it's "business as usual." Even the stock market is open. But, if you have the day off, you might enjoy a visit to the Opening Our Doors 2014 in the Fenway Cultural District.

    What's open?

    Restaurants, bars: Open

    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 are 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 most Banks closed. But, each year more banks decide to keep a few branches open. Check with your own bank. 

    Stock market: Open as are international markets.

    Boston Parking, Trash, Etc.

    Boston Parking: City website says, "Free parking at all city meters. All other rules apply.

    Street Sweeping: City website says, "Daytime street sweeping is suspended on city holidays, but nighttime sweeping schedules remain in effect."

    Boston Trash Collection: From this page on the city site.

    "Monday October 14, 2013

    No Delay of trash or recycling collection in Back Bay, Bay Village, Beacon Hill, Charlestown, Chinatown, Fenway, Leather District, Mission Hill, North End, Roxbury, South Boston, and the South End.

    Delay trash and recycling collection a day only if you live in Allston, Brighton, Dorchester, East Boston, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain*, Mattapan, Roslindale, or West Roxbury.

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

    Traffic Alerts/Road closures: More will be added as we are made aware of them.

    • Columbus Day Parade – Sunday, October 13th in the North End.
    • BAA Half Marathon – Sunday, October 13th from White Stadium in Franklin Park. Here's the official site for that event.
    • DCR Memorial Drive Road Closure Western Ave to Mt Auburn Street – Sunday October 7th.
    • Tufts 10 K – Monday October 14th – Road closures in the Back Bay and Cambridge. Here's the site for details.

    MBTA Columbus Day Schedules 2013 (updated 10/03/13)

    The MBTA has announced schedules for Columbus Day, Monday, October 14, 2013. The service schedules varied from Saturday, to modified Saturday, and regular weekday, to modified weekday. For a few days before and after the holiday, schedule details will show up at this link.

    Remember the links for details will only work through the holiday then that page reverts to a generic form.

    For additional information on routes, schedules, and fares, contact the MBTA at (617) 222-3200, TTY 617-222-5146, or visit them at: www.mbta.com.

    Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Art from The Fenway Cultural District 

    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.

  • 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.

    5911596683_c7ca714876
    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.

    5912162952_833bd48d2c
    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.

    Screen shot city of boston.
    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! 

  • 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.

    5911596683_c7ca714876
    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.

    5912162952_833bd48d2c
    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.

    Screen shot city of boston.
    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! 

  • 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.

    5911596683_c7ca714876
    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.

    5912162952_833bd48d2c
    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.

    Screen shot city of boston.
    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! 

  • When Saint Patrick’s Day, Evacuation Day (March 17, 2013) Falls on a Sunday…

    This year, Saint Patrick's Day falls on a Sunday so I'm curious – will city and state workers in Suffolk County be off on Monday, will City Hall and the State offices in Suffolk County shut down, and will parking, trash, and liquor sales be impacted for the day? You'll find the answers below.

    For the latest information go to our 2015 Post on this topic.

    6a00e54fc42bb888340168e890b7b2970c-800wi

    I do know that a lot of people will be taking advantage of the weekend date to come to Boston. Questions about where to stay, which Irish Pub to visit, and how to get around the city have popped up over on the Boston Trip Advisor forum. It looks like visitors are coming here from all over the country and especially from Ireland.

    Do you celebrate Saint Patrick's Day?

    6a00e54fc42bb888340112796f2a3328a4-800wi

    About your holiday questions…

    According to the Secretary of State's website,

    "All holidays falling on Sunday must be observed on Monday, under state law. Saturday holidays are observed on Saturday."

    A call to the Secretary of State's office confirmed that State Government no longer shuts down on Evacuation Day. State offices will be open.

    The day is not listed on Boston's list of holidays that change parking regulations or trash pick up, but the meters are free on Sunday anyway (details here), and there is no trash pick up scheduled. A call to city hall confirmed that it will be open on Monday!

    Basically, everything is open. But, in the past, the city has asked South Boston liquor stores and bars to cut off sales early. Here's the city's press release from last year. And, Boston.com reported that Police Superintendent William Evans said they would be doing the same this year. 

    Some MBTA routes in South Boston will be changed because of the parade. Here's the list. (This link will disappear after the holiday.)

    We'll update as press releases come out from around the city.

    Update: 03.16.13: Here's the City Traffic Advisory to St. Patrick's Day Events.

    Related Posts:

    Irish Breakfast at the Squealing Pig

    Matt Murphy's Pub Saves the Day

    What's on your Amazon shopping list? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

     


    Details:
    Words: Penny Cherubino
    Photography: © 2008-2011 Penny  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 a great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

    Related articles
    It's Irish Soda Bread Season!
    Why Green for Saint Patrick's Day
    Ireland, I Love You So Much It Hurts

  • When Saint Patrick’s Day, Evacuation Day (March 17, 2013) Falls on a Sunday…

    This year, Saint Patrick's Day falls on a Sunday so I'm curious – will city and state workers in Suffolk County be off on Monday, will City Hall and the State offices in Suffolk County shut down, and will parking, trash, and liquor sales be impacted for the day? You'll find the answers below.

    For the latest information go to our 2015 Post on this topic.

    6a00e54fc42bb888340168e890b7b2970c-800wi

    I do know that a lot of people will be taking advantage of the weekend date to come to Boston. Questions about where to stay, which Irish Pub to visit, and how to get around the city have popped up over on the Boston Trip Advisor forum. It looks like visitors are coming here from all over the country and especially from Ireland.

    Do you celebrate Saint Patrick's Day?

    6a00e54fc42bb888340112796f2a3328a4-800wi

    About your holiday questions…

    According to the Secretary of State's website,

    "All holidays falling on Sunday must be observed on Monday, under state law. Saturday holidays are observed on Saturday."

    A call to the Secretary of State's office confirmed that State Government no longer shuts down on Evacuation Day. State offices will be open.

    The day is not listed on Boston's list of holidays that change parking regulations or trash pick up, but the meters are free on Sunday anyway (details here), and there is no trash pick up scheduled. A call to city hall confirmed that it will be open on Monday!

    Basically, everything is open. But, in the past, the city has asked South Boston liquor stores and bars to cut off sales early. Here's the city's press release from last year. And, Boston.com reported that Police Superintendent William Evans said they would be doing the same this year. 

    Some MBTA routes in South Boston will be changed because of the parade. Here's the list. (This link will disappear after the holiday.)

    We'll update as press releases come out from around the city.

    Update: 03.16.13: Here's the City Traffic Advisory to St. Patrick's Day Events.

    Related Posts:

    Irish Breakfast at the Squealing Pig

    Matt Murphy's Pub Saves the Day

    What's on your Amazon shopping list? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

     


    Details:
    Words: Penny Cherubino
    Photography: © 2008-2011 Penny  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 a great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

    Related articles
    It's Irish Soda Bread Season!
    Why Green for Saint Patrick's Day
    Ireland, I Love You So Much It Hurts

  • When Saint Patrick’s Day, Evacuation Day (March 17, 2013) Falls on a Sunday…

    This year, Saint Patrick's Day falls on a Sunday so I'm curious – will city and state workers in Suffolk County be off on Monday, will City Hall and the State offices in Suffolk County shut down, and will parking, trash, and liquor sales be impacted for the day? You'll find the answers below.

    For the latest information go to our 2015 Post on this topic.

    6a00e54fc42bb888340168e890b7b2970c-800wi

    I do know that a lot of people will be taking advantage of the weekend date to come to Boston. Questions about where to stay, which Irish Pub to visit, and how to get around the city have popped up over on the Boston Trip Advisor forum. It looks like visitors are coming here from all over the country and especially from Ireland.

    Do you celebrate Saint Patrick's Day?

    6a00e54fc42bb888340112796f2a3328a4-800wi

    About your holiday questions…

    According to the Secretary of State's website,

    "All holidays falling on Sunday must be observed on Monday, under state law. Saturday holidays are observed on Saturday."

    A call to the Secretary of State's office confirmed that State Government no longer shuts down on Evacuation Day. State offices will be open.

    The day is not listed on Boston's list of holidays that change parking regulations or trash pick up, but the meters are free on Sunday anyway (details here), and there is no trash pick up scheduled. A call to city hall confirmed that it will be open on Monday!

    Basically, everything is open. But, in the past, the city has asked South Boston liquor stores and bars to cut off sales early. Here's the city's press release from last year. And, Boston.com reported that Police Superintendent William Evans said they would be doing the same this year. 

    Some MBTA routes in South Boston will be changed because of the parade. Here's the list. (This link will disappear after the holiday.)

    We'll update as press releases come out from around the city.

    Update: 03.16.13: Here's the City Traffic Advisory to St. Patrick's Day Events.

    Related Posts:

    Irish Breakfast at the Squealing Pig

    Matt Murphy's Pub Saves the Day

    What's on your Amazon shopping list? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

     


    Details:
    Words: Penny Cherubino
    Photography: © 2008-2011 Penny  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 a great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

    Related articles
    It's Irish Soda Bread Season!
    Why Green for Saint Patrick's Day
    Ireland, I Love You So Much It Hurts