ROSE GARDEN
The James P. Kelleher Rose Garden is a hidden gem nestled within Boston’s Back Bay Fens, offering a tranquil escape adorned with over 1,500 rose bushes. Designed in 1931 by landscape architect Arthur Shurcliff, a protégé of Frederick Law Olmsted, the garden showcases a formal layout featuring arched trellises, classical statues, and a central fountain.
Located at 70 Park Drive, the garden is part of Boston's Emerald Necklace park system. It was named in 1975 to honor James P. Kelleher, the city's Superintendent of Horticulture. After a period of decline, a comprehensive restoration was undertaken in 2001, revitalizing the garden's original design and plantings.
Visitors can enjoy the garden daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., typically from May through October, with peak bloom occurring in early summer. Admission is free, making it an ideal spot for leisurely walks, photography, or quiet reflection. Given the latter, don’t be surprised if you see Devon or Renee meditating there....
For more information, you can visit the Emerald Necklace Conservancy's website.
EVENTS:
Party in the Park 2025
One of their signature fundraising events is the Party in the Park Luncheon, scheduled for May 14, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Pinebank Field in Jamaica Plain. This annual event benefits the Justine Mee Liff Fund, supporting the care and restoration of the Emerald Necklace parks.
Known as the “hat lunch” for its tradition of stylish spring hats, the luncheon gathers over 700 park supporters for an elegant meal under a tent in one of the Emerald Necklace parks.
Tickets and sponsorships are available, with individual tickets priced at $750. Sponsorship packages offer additional benefits, such as priority seating, program book recognition, and invitations to exclusive events.
Devon often attends along with her lovely hat collection and an array of friends!
🌱 Additional Events
The Conservancy also organizes other events that support their mission:
Arbor Day Volunteer Tree Planting
Held on April 25, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in Franklin Park, this event invites volunteers to plant new trees, enhancing the park's landscape.
Muddy River Cleanup
Scheduled for April 26, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, this cleanup is part of the Annual Earth Day Charles River Cleanup, focusing on removing trash and debris from the Muddy River area.
These events offer opportunities to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of Boston's historic park system.
For more information or to get involved, you can visit the Emerald Necklace Conservancy's events page.