Tag: parade

What’s Happening Around Boston in March 2015

Time to start a new month of information to share with visitors and locals. What are your favorite March activities in Boston? This year, I think watching snow melt will be high on the list of many Bostonians.

(Photo by Raymond Larose used under this creative commons license be sure to check his photography blog.)

On Sunday, March 1st, head to Chinatown for the Lion Dance celebration from 10am to 5pm. That's always fun and most of the businesses in that neighborhood are small family run places that could use our support. What's more, you can be entertained, feast, and do your grocery shopping in one afternoon.

March Tips on Trip Advisor

Over on the Boston Trip Advisor Forum, Destination expert, forgotmypword started a conversation on this topic back in December when someone asked about hotel rates this month.

"St Patrick's Day (March 17) is a popular time to visit Boston. The parade is the 15th. On top of that, there is a large convention. The Seafood Expo/seafood processors convention is from the 15th-17th and is expecting 18,000 attendees."

And, I've begun my monthly topic about, What's Going on in March 2015 Around Boston. As the regular volunteers who answer questions on that space share their ideas, you will find topics that we never cover on BostonZest and things to do that are beyond our interests.

Do you remember Diamond Jim's Piano Bar at the Lenox hotel? It will reappear for one weekend in March.

Who are all these People? (or, Conventions in Town in March)

Here are the numbers on conventions and large meetings that will impact hotel prices and in some cases make dinner reservations harder to find in certain areas of the city.

From March 12th -14th, a meeting will be held at the Hynes with 6,000 in attendance. But the rest of the big events are out in the Seaport district and won't be noticed by most locals and visitors except in restaurants.

From the 15th -17th, 18,000 visitors at BCEC and the 28th to the 31st there are two events in that area with a total of 18,000 attendees.

If you need a restaurant reservation for those dates, make it now.

March Events

There is always a lot of information about St. Patrick's Day in Boston but in the North End, St. Joseph's Day, March 19th is important because all the bakeries make Zeppole di San Giuseppe in honor of the day. These are delightful fried pastries filled with cream and cherries. Seen above is our favorite at Modern Pastry.

You could go from Modern to Maria's and so on down the streets tasting different versions. These are also made by bakeries throughout the area this time of year. Please share your favorite spots for Zeppole.

The parade is on Sunday the 15th. This is one day when we avoid using the MBTA since it's usually full of people going to and from that event.

Sometime during the month, you could support an Irish Pub by enjoying an Irish Breakfast. The one above is from Sonny's Pub in Adams Village.

Or, you can buy Irish soda bread from an area bakery. It Looks like we're going to have to do a lot of walking this month with all these seasonal offerings. You can honor the Irish while you walk. Here's a link to the Irish Heritage Trail.

Your Turn

We hope you'll join in and make this a conversation here. Add your comments below or follow us on Twitter and send your ideas to us there. Just put @BostonZest in your message and we'll get it.

Who's next?

What are your favorite March pastimes?

What events are you planning to attend this month?

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

Details:

Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2011-2015 Penny & Ed Cherubino or as marked below photo

February 27, 2015
What’s Open on Columbus Day 2014 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 13, 2014. 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 and then feature it on the holiday.

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 Opening Our Doors 2014 in the Fenway Cultural District.

Here is our post on "What's Happening in Boston in October 2014" for more ideas of places to go and things to do.

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:

"Columbus Day Week

Monday, October 13, 6am – Saturday, October 18, 2014, 5pm

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.

Allston/Brighton, Dorchester, East Boston, Jamaica Plain*, Mattapan, Roslindale, West Roxbury and Hyde Park, delayed a day

*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 12th in East Boston.
- B.A.A. Half Marathon – Sunday, October 12th from White Stadium in Franklin Park. Here's the official site for that event.
- Tufts 10K – Monday October 13th – Road closures in the Back Bay and Cambridge. Here's the site for details.
- Here is a link to the Press release from the city with more details on these traffic situations.
MBTA Columbus Day Schedules 2014

(Updated 10.03.14 2 PM)The MBTA schedule changes for Columbus Day, Monday, October 13, 2014 were announced today. You can Download MBTA Columbus Day announcement in a pdf form.

But the good news is that the system is running on a weekday schedule.

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
October 3, 2014
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.

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.
- Green and Silver lines will run on a weekday schedule.
- Red, Orange and Blue lines are on a Saturday schedule with some buses replacing service on the Red line.
- Buses will run on a Saturday schedule with a list of routes not operating.
- Commuter Rail and Boats will run on a weekday schedule.
- The Ride will run on a Saturday Schedule
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.
October 2, 2013
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.

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.
- Green and Silver lines will run on a weekday schedule.
- Red, Orange and Blue lines are on a Saturday schedule with some buses replacing service on the Red line.
- Buses will run on a Saturday schedule with a list of routes not operating.
- Commuter Rail and Boats will run on a weekday schedule.
- The Ride will run on a Saturday Schedule
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.
October 2, 2013
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.

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.
- Green and Silver lines will run on a weekday schedule.
- Red, Orange and Blue lines are on a Saturday schedule with some buses replacing service on the Red line.
- Buses will run on a Saturday schedule with a list of routes not operating.
- Commuter Rail and Boats will run on a weekday schedule.
- The Ride will run on a Saturday Schedule
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.
October 2, 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
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 Columbus Day 2012 In Boston and MBTA Schedule Changes
Here's a run-down of what's open and closed in Boston on Columbus Day and changes to MBTA schedules for October 8, 2012.

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've also added information on parking, street sweeping, traffic alerts, road closures, parades, and trash collection.

This is one of those holidays when, for a lot of people, it's "business as usual." Even the stock market is open.

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

There's a statue of Columbus in Louisburg Square

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: 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 8 | 7am – Saturday, October 13, 2012 | 5pm

Delay trash and recycling pickup 1 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 7th in East Boston here are the details that we could find.
- BAA Half Marathon – Sunday October 7th 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. Here's the link.
- Tufts 10 K – Monday October 8th – Road closures in the Back Bay and Cambridge. Here's the site for details.
MBTA Columbus Day Schedules 2012

The MBTA has announced schedules for Columbus Day, Monday, October 8, 2012. The service schedules vary from Saturday, to modified Saturday, and regular weekday, to modified weekday. Full Details Here!

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
Photography: © 2012 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.
September 24, 2012
What’s Open on Columbus Day 2012 In Boston and MBTA Schedule Changes
Here's a run-down of what's open and closed in Boston on Columbus Day and changes to MBTA schedules for October 8, 2012.

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've also added information on parking, street sweeping, traffic alerts, road closures, parades, and trash collection.

This is one of those holidays when, for a lot of people, it's "business as usual." Even the stock market is open.

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

There's a statue of Columbus in Louisburg Square

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: 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 8 | 7am – Saturday, October 13, 2012 | 5pm

Delay trash and recycling pickup 1 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 7th in East Boston here are the details that we could find.
- BAA Half Marathon – Sunday October 7th 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. Here's the link.
- Tufts 10 K – Monday October 8th – Road closures in the Back Bay and Cambridge. Here's the site for details.
MBTA Columbus Day Schedules 2012

The MBTA has announced schedules for Columbus Day, Monday, October 8, 2012. The service schedules vary from Saturday, to modified Saturday, and regular weekday, to modified weekday. Full Details Here!

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
Photography: © 2012 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.
September 24, 2012