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November 20,
2017
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Featured Stories
In The News
This Week's Featured Event
Arts, Entertainment & Events
Announcements
Deals & Promos
BID Services & Links
Construction & Utility Work Updates
City of Boston Services
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This Week's Featured Event
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Santa, Performers and a Patriot:
Macy's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting
Nov. 24th
Macy's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting festivities are a full afternoon of fun for the whole family on Friday, Nov. 24th.
There will be kids activities in Macy's (lower level) starting at noon, including face painting, balloon art and the opportunity to take a photo with Santa Claus.
At
5 pm (outside of Macy's on Summer Street) enjoy performances from Rock and Roll Hall of Famer
Darlene Love, above, the
Boston Children's Choir, below, singer/songwriter
Sam Tsui and singer/songwriter
Bea Miller.
Then join New England Patriot Mike Gillislee and Boston Mayor Martin Walsh and Santa Claus for the countdown to light the holiday tree. After the tree lighting join the celebrity guests for a photo together inside Macy's. |
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Arts, Entertainment & Events
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Sweet Harmony Performing
Saturdays and Sundays
Starting
Nov. 25th
The singing group Sweet Harmony will be performing outside of Macy's on Summer Street every Saturday and Sunday starting Nov. 25th through Dec. 23rd.
Sweet Harmony will be performing hits from the 1970s through today, including holiday-themed songs from 12:30 to 3 pm. |
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Santa Claus in Downtown Crossing
Every Weekend Until Christmas
The Downtown Boston BID is working with Santa Claus again this year, as St. Nick will be outside of Macy's on Summer Street every Saturday and Sunday starting Nov. 25th until Christmas.
Santa Claus will be outside granting wishes, greeting children big and small from noon to 2 pm and then 3 to 4 pm every Saturday and Sunday. It is free to visit Santa Claus. Please bring your own camera if you want a photo with Santa. |
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Boston Ballet's 'The Nutcracker' Opens at Boston Opera House
Nov. 24th
From the sugar plum fairies to the Russian dancers, the Boston Ballet's "The Nutcracker" is a holiday tradition you don't want to miss. The show opens at the Boston Opera House on Nov. 24th and runs through Dec. 31st.
Whether you're seeing it for the first time or the 100th time, the performance is always captivating. Click here for tickets and showtimes. |
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King's Chapel Concert Series
Presents the Lutheran Chorale
King's Chapel (58 Tremont St.) Music Director Heinrich Christensen is joining in the worldwide celebration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation by playing various Lutheran chorales from around the world on Sunday, Nov. 26th.
The chorales will be sung in between organ treatments by a quartet from the King's Chapel Choir consisting of Emily Bieber-Harris, Jennifer Webb, Andy Troska and Dan Perry.
Tickets are $5 and can be purchased by clicking here. This event is at 5 pm. |
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Celebrate 150th Anniversary of
'A Christmas Carol' at
Omni Parker House's
Dinner with Dickens on
Nov. 28th
Join the Omni Parker House (60 School St.) in celebration of the 150th anniversary of Charles Dickens' first American reading of his classic, "A Christmas Carol," on Tuesday, Nov. 28th.
Dickens resided at the Parker House during his 1867-68 American lecture tour, and joined members of the famed Saturday Club at the hotel for one particularly memorable meeting on November 30, 1867. It was there, he recited his classic tale to his peers, before performing it to the American public the following evening at the Tremont Theater next door.
The evening will feature a five-course meal featuring items reminiscent of the Victorian era. English actor and performer
Gerald Roderick Charles Dickens will perform an excerpt from his great-great-grandfather's famous work. Your ticket includes the five-course meal, wine pairings, a commemorative gift, tax and gratuity.
All proceeds from the event will benefit Omni's Say Goodnight To Hunger initiative, which provides donations
directly to Feeding America and the Greater Boston Food Bank.
Click here for more info and to purchase tickets. This event is from 6:30 to 9 pm. |
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2017 Skating Spectacular and
Boston Common Tree Lighting
Nov. 30th
Join The Skating Club of Boston for a free figure skating ice show featuring national and international competitive figure skaters, soloists and more at the Boston Common Frog Pond on Thursday, Nov. 30th. Following the show please join Boston Mayor Martin Walsh and others for the Boston Common Tree Lighting.
The Skating Club of Boston is partnering with the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation and the Club will be honoring Hamilton at Boston's Tree Lighting Skating Spectacular. The show starts at 5 pm and is free to attend. Click here for more info about the show and tree lighting. Ice skating will be open to the public after the show. |
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The Tedeschi Trucks Band Performing Three Shows at Orpheum Theatre
The Tedeschi Trucks Band will perform three shows at the Orpheum Theatre on Nov. 30th, Dec. 1st and Dec. 2nd. Click here for tickets and showtimes.
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Old South Meeting House
Open House: Farm Fair Throwback
Dec. 1st & 2nd
Join the Old South Meeting House (310 Washington St.) to honor its past with fun, farm-themed activities, including carding wool with Historic New England staff at the Holiday Open House on Friday, Dec. 1st and Saturday, Dec. 2nd.
This year's open house recalls one of OSMH's fundraisers near its 140th anniversary in the 1870s, which was a farm-themed fair featuring a full-scale barn and a visit from Mother Goose on Dec. 5, 1877. This event is free and open to the public. The open houses are from 10 am to 4 pm. |
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Enjoy Freedom Trail Foundation
Historic Holiday Strolls
The Freedom Trail Foundation's Annual Historic Holiday Strolls are a great way to enjoy the holiday season in Downtown Boston.
The festive atmosphere of the city, set against the backdrop of Boston's historic sites, makes these merry 90-minute tours a great way to celebrate the holidays.
The strolls are led by Dickensian costumed guides departing from the ArtsBoston Booth at Faneuil Hall. Strolls include a visit to the Omni Parker House for refreshments and world-famous Boston cream pie.
Tickets are $29 for adults and $19 for children and reservations are required 24 hours in advance. Tours can also be booked as private family or group tours. The strolls are offered Thursdays through Sundays at 3:30 pm.
Please call 617-357-8300 for more information and reservations. The strolls are being offered through January 2018.
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Take a Book, Leave a Book:
BID Little Free Library at
Walgreens Plaza
The Downtown Boston BID's Little Free Library is outside of Walgreens on Washington Street and is very popular. Readers are welcome to take a book, and encouraged to leave a book. People are also welcome to donate books by leaving them at the library or by contacting BID staffer Kristen Flanagan at [email protected] to organize a pickup in the downtown area.
The BID's Little Free Library is officially registered with the Little Free Library non-profit organization and
is open 10 am to 6 pm daily (closed during inclement weather). |
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BID Ambassadors Provide Clean & Hospitality Services
in Downtown
The
Downtown Boston BID Ambassadors
provide clean and hospitality services seven days a week, nearly 24 hours a day. Ambassadors create a friendly, welcoming Downtown presence by helping visitors with directions, notifying fire and police personnel of incidents and more.
B
ID Ambassadors
provide walking escorts when needed and
they'll even tote an umbrella if it's raining! Please call 617-261-0066 if you want to contact our BID ambassador services program. You can also email [email protected].
- Ambassadors remove litter and graffiti
- Ambassadors clear crosswalks, handicapped ramps and storm drain openings
- Ambassador powerwash in Downtown Boston during warm weather
- Ambassadors maintain the BID's landscaping
- Masonry Ambassadors fix sidewalks and more
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Additional BID Services & Info
- Communication and Business Networking
- Meetings with individual BID members to discuss neighborhood issues
- Entertainment programming
- Member Advocacy
- Capital/Public Improvements
- Wayfinding
- Please click here for the Downtown Boston BID's Welcome Guide that provides a look at many of the BID's accomplishments in leading the transformation of Downtown Crossing
- For additional details and information on the complete range of BID services please contact Doug Meyer, Membership Services & Database Manager, at [email protected].
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Downtown Boston BID Weekly News Update
For questions and comments, please contact David Ertischek, newsletter editor, at:
[email protected]
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Holiday Bands and Carolers Strolling Through Downtown Boston Starting
Nov. 24th Through New Year
This holiday season the Downtown Boston BID Holiday Bands and Carolers are back by popular demand. They will be strolling through Downtown Crossing starting Nov. 24th. It will be hard for you miss them as there are three strolling bands and three strolling singing groups performing twice a day, every day!
The bands and singing groups will feature different styles: the bands will feature Brass, Dixie and 'Bones (trombones and tuba); and the singers will feature Victorian, Twilight and Doo-Wop. The groups will be playing and singing holiday-themed songs every day from noon to 2 pm and then again from 4:30 to 6:30 pm.
All six performance groups will be strolling through the area until Christmas, and then a holiday band will play everyday through New Year's Day.
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BID Chairman Spurr and BID Properties Honored at BOMA Boston TOBY Awards
The 2017 BOMA Boston TOBY Awards honoring the outstanding buildings of the year took place on Nov. 16th at the Boston Marriott Copley Place. Among the winners was BID Board Chairman Jack Spurr of A.W. Perry, who was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
"My service to the industry and to causes in communities in which I work and live is just part of who I am. It has been rewarding in its own right. To be recognized for it by my peers at BOMA is appreciated and humbling," said Spurr, above.
"We were delighted to recognize Jack Spurr with the Lifetime Achievement Award at our 2017 TOBY & Industry Awards," said Adrienne Maley, executive director of BOMA Boston. "As this is BOMA Boston's Centennial Year -- a special year for BOMA, we thought it would be timely for Jack to be recognized for his contributions to the industry and continued support of BOMA Boston and the Greater Boston Real Estate Board."
The TOBYs are recognized internationally and BOMA Boston presents these awards each year to honor the best buildings in the greater Boston area. The winners go on to compete in the Regional TOBY Awards Competition in May 2018.
Several BID properties and property owners received TOBY Awards, including:
Several buildings were also designated as part of the BOMA 360 Performance Program, which recognizes outstanding achievement and provides a tool that can be used to market buildings. BOMA Boston has 25 buildings that hold BOMA 360 Designation. This year several BID properties were designated, including:
- 100 Summer Street, owned and operated by Equity Office
- 294 Washington Street, jointly owned by Goldman Sachs and Synergy Investments, and operated by Synergy Investments
On behalf of everyone at the Downtown Boston BID, we offer congratulations to all of the winners and nominees.
Click
here for more information about the 2017 BOMA Boston TOBY Awards.
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Where to Ice Skate in Downtown Boston:
Boston Common Frog Pond and
City Hall Plaza
There are two wonderfully scenic spots to go ice skating in Downtown Boston: the Boston Common Frog Pond and City Hall Plaza. You are welcome to bring your own skates or rent a pair, and both locations avail the opportunity to get a warm cup of cocoa, tasty treats and more.
The Boston Common Frog Pond opened for ice skating on Nov. 14th, which is the earliest date ever. Admission is based on a skater's height -- under 58 inches gets in for free, and $6 for 58 inches or taller. Skate rental prices vary. Click here for more information about skating on the Boston Common Frog Pond.
Ice skating hours for the Boston Common Frog Pond are as follows:
Monday: 10 am - 3:45 pm
Tuesday-Thursday: 10 am - 9 pm
Friday-Saturday: 10 am - 10 pm
Sunday: 10 am - 9 pm
For the second year City Hall Plaza is hosting Boston Winter, which is opening Nov. 24th and open seven days a week. Boston Winter will feature a mix of winter activities, including a unique outdoor skating path, an expanded holiday shopping market, an array of hospitality experiences and attractions.
The holiday shopping market will feature 85 boutique style chalets offering a wide variety of local and international gifts, goods and food. Attractions this year include an enchanted Christmas tree maze, a Santa House, a Bavarian Village, and Vinopolis, an interactive wine and beer experience. The skating path will be open through February, offering learn-to-skate programs and many special events.
Click here for more information about Boston Winter on City Hall Plaza. Boston Winter will be open from 11 am to 11 pm on opening day. The Skating Path's hours vary and can be seen by clicking here.
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You Can Help Those In Need Through These Downtown Boston Organizations
Many of us have warm homes and meals during the holiday season. But there are many people who are in need of meals, a place to stay and clothing. You can make a difference for those in need by volunteering or donating to several downtown Boston organizations.
Boston Rescue Mission (39 Kingston St.)
accepts individual volunteers and groups of up to six people. Volunteers may perform numerous duties, including work as a front desk attendant, kitchen staff, maintenance, drivers, laundry and office work. Click
here
for more information and to fill out a volunteer application.
Bridge Over Troubled Waters (47 West St.) offers several volunteer opportunities, including meal preparation, medical care, providing education, create a fundraising drive and more. Click here for more information and to fill out a volunteer application.
New England Center and Home for Veterans (17 Court St.) volunteers serve meals, sort and prepare supplies, coach and teach at the Veterans Training School, participate in special work details, projects and corporate work outings. Click here for more info about volunteering.
St. Anthony Shrine (100 Arch St.) operates more than 30 programs and initiatives, including the Franciscan Food Center that provides food to those in need, as well as other programs that provide food to the homeless. There are numerous volunteer opportunities. Click here for more information and to fill out a volunteer application.
St. Francis House (39 Boylston St.) always welcomes new volunteers, especially for the days immediately after the holiday season. Volunteers work in the kitchen, distribute clothing, assist with mock interviews to prepare individuals for job training and more. Click
here to learn more about volunteering.
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Boston Tea Party Reenactment
Volunteers Wanted
The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum tells the true story of the brave men and women who defied Great Britain in an iconic act of protest on December 16, 1773. But only once a year is the Tea Party reenacted -- and volunteers are wanted this year to help with the event.
More than 3,000 attendees are expected for this year's event and volunteers are crucial to a successful event. Volunteers of the 244th reenactment of the Boston Tea Party will be taking one of several important roles, including directing crowd flow, securing parade routes and facilitating the reenactment along the Harborwalk on Atlantic Wharf. Please contact Dan O'Neill at 617-596-6494 or email [email protected]. |
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Don't Worry About Cooking!
Make Your Thanksgiving Reservations Today
There are several options to get delicious Thanksgiving Day meals in downtown Boston. It is recommended that you make reservations.
Artisan Bistro (10 Avery St.) is offering a Thanksgiving Day menu that includes whole roasted turkey, stuffing, potatoes, vegetables and desserts from noon to 4 pm. Click here to view the menu. Please call 617-574-7176 to make a reservation.
Avenue One (inside Hyatt Regency Boston at 1 Avenue de Lafayette) is offering a four-course menu from 1 to 7 pm. Click here to view the menu. Please call 617-422-5579 to make reservations.
Legal Crossing (558 Washington St.) is offering a special menu from noon to 8 pm. Click here to view the menu. Please call 617-692-8888 to make reservations.
The Merchant (60 Franklin St.) is offering a three-course menu from noon to 8 pm. Click here to view the menu. Please call 617-482-6060 to make a reservation.
Ruth's Chris Steak House (45 School St.) is offering a three-course turkey dinner and a children's menu. Click
here to view the menus. Please call
617-742-8401 to make reservations.
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The Ritz-Carlton, Boston's Offering
Holiday Desserts To-Go
The pastry team at The Ritz-Carlton, Boston can sweeten your holidays with traditional pies, cookies and cakes.
Please place your order 48 hours in advance at Artisan Bistro by calling 617-574-7176 and voila, the holidays just got easier! This option is available prior to Thanksgiving and throughout the December holidays thanks to Pastry Chef Kerry Meister and her talented team. |
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Patriots QB Drew Bledsoe Bottle Signing at Roche Bros Nov. 29th
Join former Patriots QB Drew Bledsoe at Roche Bros (8 Summer St.) for a wine bottle signing on Wednesday, Nov. 29th.
Purchase a bottle of 2014 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon, which will be on sale for one day, for $99.99 (a $20 savings), and Bledsoe will sign your bottle. This event is from 2:30 to 4:30 pm. |
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Have Your Holiday Party at PABU
PABU (3 Franklin St.) can host your upcoming holiday party in the private dining room for up to 22 guests. You can also do a full restaurant buy-out, reception style, full of interactive experiences such as sake tastings, ice sculptures, DJs and more. Click here to learn more or call 857-327-7228.
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Godfrey Hotel Boston Holiday Pop-Up Series Through Dec. 23rd
The Godfrey Hotel Boston (505 Washington St.) is hosting a Holiday Pop-Up Series on each Saturday through Dec. 23rd.
The pop-up series will feature Boston area businesses offering an assortment of products, including handmade knits, cocktail kits and specialty baked dog treats. The pop-up series will be from 11 am to 4 pm. Anyone is welcome to attend the pop-up series.
The following is the schedule:
Nov. 25th: Polka Dog Bakery
Dec. 2nd: Polka Dog Bakery
Dec. 9th: Boston General Store
Dec. 16th: Derouchaeu Handmade Knits
Dec. 23rd: Polka Dog Bakery
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Old South Meeting House
Museum Shop Sunday on Nov. 26th
Stop by the Old South Meeting House (310 Washington St.) on Nov. 26th for Museum Shop Sunday. Take a peak at the revamped shop with new offerings from "Horses in the Hall" to "Banned Books." Members get 10% off all purchases.
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Construction & Utility Work Updates
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New Developments Under Construction, Proposed Projects and More
Downtown Boston is continually transforming, with new buildings rising, as well as transportation projects taking place underground and at street level.
Looking for the latest u
pdates on developments, construction, sidewalk closings, and more? Click
here.
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