City of Boston Blog Posts

Giving Tuesday (Philanthropy Day of Giving):
A quick guide to the global day of generosity after Thanksgiving. Learn how small actions like donating, volunteering, or sharing a cause can spark big community impact and kick off year-end giving campaigns.

What it means when a city or town honors combat-wounded veterans. See how Massachusetts communities recognize recipients with ceremonies, signage, and veteran-friendly gestures.

We are BIG fans of Devon’s spirit and spunk. She has us writing and researching about everything fun under the sun, and so, why not add Speakeasies to the list. We’re glad she suggested it. Because, check it out...they look like SO MUCH FUN!!! Sneak out one night, pull up a seat and raise your glass....

Staying in business these days is no small feat—and these companies have done more than just survive. They’ve thrived for decades, even centuries! Just that alone makes them worth checking out. (right under our nose...)

Yoga is one of the best ways to take care of yourself. When the news is overwhelming, the kids are running wild, or life just feels chaotic, you can hit pause and step into a yoga class. There are a myriad of benefits. But not just any class—quality instruction, a clean and welcoming studio, relaxing music, great vibes, and a friendly staff make all the difference. Some of our own team members practice yoga regularly, so we can share firsthand recommendations on the best places to go. Here are some of our favorites:

Old North Church:
The 1723 landmark best known for the lantern signal linked to Paul Revere’s ride offers tours, services, and a living history experience. Explore the crypt, gallery, and bell chamber while learning how faith and community intersected with the nation’s founding. It’s a Freedom Trail stop that still feels alive.

Old South Church:
A historic Back Bay congregation with deep roots in Boston’s civic life and a striking Gothic Revival sanctuary. Visit for worship, music, lectures, and an active calendar that bridges tradition with a progressive mission. Architecture lovers and history fans will both find something to appreciate.

Like many of you, we love deli’s! They’re fast, good quality, comforting and nostalgic. They excel at creating high quality sandwiches. At a popular deli, we know we can count on some great comfort food. 
Where to find towering corned beef, old-school deli classics, and Italian salumeria favorites. This list spans quick counter service to sit-down spots, with notes on what each does best. Perfect for planning your next comfort-food run or a casual sandwich tour of the city.

THIS MONTH’S HISTORIC HOME FEATURE:
Step inside the oldest surviving timber-frame house in North America and see centuries of family life under one roof. Tours showcase 17th-century construction, layered additions, and curiosities from folk beliefs to everyday artifacts. It’s a rare look at New England’s earliest domestic architecture.

Talks, tours, exhibits, concerts, and commemorations tied to America’s founding era. Your guide to timely November programs as the nation approaches its 250th year.

As Oktoberfest season approaches, New England’s craft beer scene is ready to shine with a lineup of exceptional breweries offering seasonal brews, festive events, and truly inspired flavors. From crisp lagers to bold pumpkin ales, the region’s breweries celebrate the spirit of Oktoberfest with creativity and craftsmanship. Whether you're looking to sip a traditional stein at a local beer hall or enjoy a scenic brewery experience surrounded by fall foliage, New England’s best breweries promise a perfect blend of craft beer and autumn festivities. Cheers!

Massachusetts is home to a variety of farms that come alive in the fall, offering quintessential New England experiences like hayrides, pumpkin patches, and apple picking. From family-friendly farms with corn mazes to rustic retreats offering scenic hayrides through colorful autumn landscapes, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking to enjoy a classic hayride under the crisp autumn sky or explore the region’s farm-to-table traditions, the farms of Massachusetts provide a perfect seasonal escape filled with fresh produce, vibrant foliage, and community charm.

Meredith, New Hampshire, is a charming lakeside town that offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, rich history, and a strong sense of community. Nestled along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, the town's natural surroundings, including proximity to the White Mountains, make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, while its vibrant local culture, top-notch dining, and cozy inns provide a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking a serene lifestyle or a weekend getaway, Meredith offers the best of New England living.

Looking for the best burgers in the Boston area? From iconic local spots, to beloved chains, to unique finds you won't find anywhere else, we have the list. Whether you like your burger loaded or simple, these local favorites will satisfy any craving!

The House of the Seven Gables, also known as the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion, is a historic landmark located in Salem, Massachusetts. Built in 1668 by Captain John Turner, this colonial mansion is one of the oldest surviving 17th-century wooden mansions in New England.

The Head of the Charles Regatta, held every October in Boston since 1965, is the world’s largest two-day rowing event and a cherished New England tradition. The Head of the Charles is more than just a rowing competition; it’s a festival that transforms the city into a lively celebration of athleticism and community.

The holiday, which replaces Columbus Day in many parts of the country, aims to shift focus from colonial history to the resilience and rich traditions of Indigenous peoples. Explore ways to celebrate this day and learn more about the local Indigenous history of New England.

The North End Columbus Day Parade in Boston is a lively celebration of Italian-American culture and heritage. Held every other year, this festive event takes place in the heart of the historic North End neighborhood. Featuring vibrant marching bands, colorful floats, and performances by local organizations, the parade showcases the rich traditions of Boston's Italian-American community.

While you are visiting the local bookstores for some chilling and thrilling tales, or at your favorite local farm stand, why not stop and pick up a pumpkin on the way home?

Halloween costumes in 2024 are all about pushing the boundaries of creativity, embracing the latest pop culture trends, and reimagining classic favorites with a fresh twist. Explore trends, unique ideas, and more in this article!

Phillips House is a historic mansion located at 34 Chestnut Street, Salem, MA 01970, operated by Historic New England. It’s the only mansion on Chestnut Street that’s open to the public. 

🍎 Let’s talk cider: crisp, bubbly, and way more fun than you might expect. Whether you’re team dry, team sweet, or just team ‘bring me another,’ Boston’s cider scene has something for every palate. Dev says, “It’s great for ski season, not as heavy as IPA’s.”

What happens when you combine a love of good food, good drinks, and a little friendly competition? You get Boston’s adult arcade scene—a place where Pac-Man is still chomping dots, but this time you’ve got a cocktail in hand. 

Dust OFF the cobwebs and get out the Pumpkin Beer...its that time of year!

Open for a pumpkin spice secret!

Boston Public Market’s signature annual fundraising celebration. It’s a lively, community-driven event that brings together food, music, and local makers—all while supporting a meaningful mission. 

HONK! Festival (often called Honkfest) is a festival of activist street bands that started in Somerville, Massachusetts in 2006 and has since spread to cities around the world.

When Devon asked us to write about Indoor Rock climbing, at first, we thought, why on earth.... but, as usual, we do our homework, and find out Devon knows what’s hot! And once again, our girl is right!

Looking for the best coffee spots in the Greater Boston area? Whether you're craving a strong espresso, a cozy ambiance, or a unique brew, we’ve rounded up the top coffee shops that offer more than just a caffeine fix. From hidden gems to local favorites, here's where to find your next perfect cup.

Castle in the Clouds, also known as the Lucknow Estate, is a stunning early 20th-century mansion nestled in the Ossipee Mountains overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee in Moultonborough, New Hampshire.

Celebrating Mardi Gras, involves lively and festive traditions, especially in places like New Orleans. Here are some popular ways people celebrate Mardi Gras:

Dust off those Skates, It’s time for some winter fun! There are so many reasons and here at These Days with Devon, we wanted to remind you to try skating again this winter. It’s a great workout and so much fun. Did you know that in and around Boston and beyond, there are some great public skating places?

The rich and famous do it, so why can’t we…. We thought, why not feature some of the best pet stores around? It wasn't hard to find the top ones, and we’re thrilled to share this info with you.

Would you believe us if we told you that we've had the incredible privilege of meeting a living, breathing human rainbow? An individual so overflowing with color, passion, and life that it's like experiencing an explosion of vibrancy!

Indeed, we have, and his name is Sitka. We had the honor of immersing ourselves in the world of this artistic genius and his equally remarkable and creative wife, Helaine, at their Newbury Street gallery.

Dragon boat racing is a traditional Chinese water paddle sport.  It is a 40 foot long canoe-like boat that can weight over 800 pounds. Holding 22 athletes, it requires teamwork, timing, strength, and endurance to bring these boats distances of 100m sprints to 2000m endurance tests.

Check out some of Boston’s best rooftop hot spots. We did....

Spectacle Island is a 114-acre island in Boston Harbor, 4 miles offshore of downtown Boston, Massachusetts. It is part of the city of Boston….

Boston is known for its seaport and the seafood that is caught there

fresh, and daily! There are many great summer seafood spots, but we particularly wanted to mention, or is that ask, about two of them...

Fun in the sun! The Greenway Walking Tour is a favorite activity of Devon’s and the perfect way to spend a spring/summer afternoon.

Enjoy a leisurely cruise on Boston Harbor: Cocktails, Rum, and City Lights Cruise…

There are countless events and festivities happening around Boston during the summer. One highlight is…

WE hear it all the time... Mike’s or Modern, and we thought we would weigh in…

HERE AT C. DEVON’S HOMES, WE WANT YOU TO CELBRATE AMERICA’S BIRTHDAY…

Celebrate the diversity of our home city of Boston by attending the GAY PRIDE PARADE on June 10th, 2023!

Find MA’s best butchers for your Memorial Day BBQ!

Memorial Day honors America's military men and women who lost their lives in service to their country. We observe this holiday on the last Monday of May, a time of year when weather is warmer and schools and colleges are adjourning for summer break.

In 1914 Mother’s Day was officially established as a federal holiday when Pres. Woodrow Wilson signed an executive measure. Wilson’s measure declared that the second Sunday of May be a national holiday in the United States!

Author Shoutout!

Also in April... If you want to add some color to your life, try Boston’s new hotspot, HUE!

Not a planter or gardener? You can still celebrate the earth... Earth Day 2023

Before you know it, spring will be here so its start to time thinking about spring cleaning! We all know it’s a great feeling to come home to a clean and organized home. Here at These Days with Devon, we can not only help you find your ideal home, but once you are all settled in, well, we will gladly connect you to others who can help you to keep your home simply harmonious and organized…

From shamrocks to leprechauns, pots of gold to shenanigans - what’s not to love about St. Patrick’s Day?

Some of Devon’s Top Tips to Get the Most out of March, in

Boston and beyond...

We like calling February the MONTH of LOVE. And that means

getting closer to those you love…

Aside from wanting to help you fall in love with your new home,

we also want to help you find more ways to celebrate LOVE this

month…

With Devon’s energy and zest for life, her holiday schedule is brimming over with delightful things to do each and every season. Adding to her list (she is never boring) is the Newfoundland Dog Christmas Tree Pull

Beacon Hill is home to some of the most beautiful and quaint buildings in all of Boston and its one of Devon’s favorites. The Cobblestone streets are lined by beautiful brownstones that Boston is most well- known for…

The Esplanade Association, is a 21-year-old non-profit organization that works to revitalize and enhance the Charles River Esplanade, sustain its natural green space, and build community in the park by providing educational, cultural, and recreational programs for everyone…

IT’s OUR NOVEMBER BLOG AND THAT MEANS WE ARE Sending you warm wishes from OUR HEART TO YOUR home! And we are quite Thankful you are here…

HERE AT THESE DAYS WITH DEVON WE enjoy all the SPOOKINESS that comes with October. We dust off our broomsticks, get the candy ready, make our costumes, all to our own soundtrack.... you KNOW we’re gonna call…

The Head of the Charles Regatta, held every October in Boston since 1965, is the world’s largest two-day rowing event and a cherished New England tradition. The Head of the Charles is more than just a rowing competition; it’s a festival that transforms the city into a lively celebration of athleticism and community.

Public schools are open to all students, while the suburbs are easy peasy based on your neighborhood, the city is a whole nother ball game. In K-Middle school, it’s a lottery system in Boston. At high school you can test into certain school, otherwise it’s a lotto. While private schools can be more selective and require an application to gain admission pk-12.

Hot pot, the beloved communal dining experience that brings friends and family together around a bubbling pot of broth, is taking Boston by storm. Whether you're a seasoned hot pot enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the city and its surrounding areas offer a vibrant selection of restaurants where you can savor this flavorful, interactive meal. From traditional Chinese-style hot pot to inventive fusion variations, the best spots in Boston and beyond promise an unforgettable culinary adventure. In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the top places to enjoy a steaming, savory hot pot, whether you're craving classic broths, premium ingredients, or unique twists on this age-old tradition.

Indulge in the magic of the season with our delightful array of Santa-approved Christmas sweets! As the holiday spirit fills the air, confectionery creations are crafted with the utmost care and a sprinkle of enchantment to ensure they receive Santa's jolly seal of approval.

Snowport in Boston’s Seaport District is a vibrant winter wonderland that transforms the waterfront into a festive escape each holiday season. They have a mistletoe arch, a winter wish wall, a custom cocktail bar, pop up shops, a tree market, and more!

Read on to learn all about one of Boston’s most transformative holiday events!

During the holiday season, Boston and New England come alive with festive charm, offering the perfect setting for a Christmas stroll. Streets and neighborhoods are adorned with twinkling lights and seasonal decorations, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re wandering through historic districts or exploring waterfront areas, the sights and sounds of the holidays are everywhere.

Here’s a list of cozy Boston and Cambridge restaurants that feature fireplaces, perfect for warming up and enjoying a great meal in a charming atmosphere. Who doesn’t enjoy dinning in front of a cozy fireplace setting? The snow and the cold don’t have to be dreaded with such lovely places as these for those blustery wintery days and nights in New England.

The New England Aquarium, located on Boston's scenic waterfront, is one of the city's top attractions, dedicated to marine conservation, education, and research. Since opening in 1969, the aquarium has welcomed millions of visitors to explore diverse marine habitats and learn about ocean preservation. Read on for an overview of what you can expect from a visit to the New England Aquarium.

In this article, we take a closer look at the Boston Wang Theatre, a cultural gem that has graced the city since the early 20th century. With its stunning architecture and vibrant history, the Wang Theatre has been a cornerstone of Boston's performing arts scene, hosting everything from Broadway shows to classical concerts. Join us as we explore its fascinating past, the evolution of its role in the community, and the ongoing efforts to preserve its legacy as one of Boston's most cherished landmarks.

Don't miss the vibrant musical "& Juliet" at the Citizens Bank Opera House in Boston! This fresh twist on the classic tale of Romeo and Juliet reimagines the story with a fun and empowering narrative, featuring the iconic pop hits of Max Martin. With dazzling choreography and a witty script, it's a celebration of love, self-discovery, and second chances. Grab your tickets now for an unforgettable night of theater!

Since her blog is called These days with Devon, and you all seem to genuinely enjoy it, we thought we would write about One Night out with Devon, just for you our loyal readers! 

Follow along on our journey through Boston with the best tour guide, dine out, and shopping companion ever!

We are thrilled to share that there are many places where your furry friends are welcome to explore and run free! In the Boston area and the MetroWest region, there are several dog parks that provide ideal spaces for your dogs to exercise and socialize. These parks are designed with both dogs and their owners in mind, offering ample space for running, playing, and meeting new friends. Read on for some popular options that you and your dog can enjoy together!

Golf combines physical activity, mental challenge, and social interaction, making it a well-rounded and enriching sport. Whether you're seeking a way to stay fit, build relationships, or enjoy the great outdoors, golf offers something for everyone. Its accessibility, lifelong appeal, and the joy of continuous personal growth make it a sport worth trying. Most courses offer instructions so it's never too late to give this fantastic sport a try! Check out the best public golf courses near you!

The USS Constitution is preserved as a museum ship in Boston Harbor. She serves as a floating museum and symbol of American naval heritage, offering tours and educational programs to visitors from around the world. Learn all about the USS Constitution Museum!

From the quaint charm of rural county fairs to the bustling excitement of larger regional celebrations, New England's fair season promises something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of agricultural showcases, live entertainment, or indulging in local delicacies, this comprehensive schedule will ensure you don't miss a single moment of the fun.

Here are some of the best breweries in the Bay State to celebrate Oktoberfest in style. From traditional lagers to creative craft brews, these spots have something for every beer enthusiast. Grab your favorite and let the festivities begin!

PUT A TWINKLE IN YOUR EYE!

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! Find out why New Englanders love their ice cream and where to get the best flavors! Get the scoop here…

Congratulations to all of our grads! You should be very proud.