City of Boston Blog Posts

Looking to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom in Boston? Check out these top showrooms—Splash Newton, Monique’s, and Clarke—for high-quality products, expert design services, and a seamless remodeling experience!

The Emerald Necklace is a historic network of parks in Boston, designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in the late 19th century. Spanning approximately 1,100 acres, it connects several neighborhoods through a series of interconnected green spaces, including Boston Common, the Public Garden, the Back Bay Fens, the Riverway, Jamaica Pond, the Arnold Arboretum, and Franklin Park.

The Cooper-Frost-Austin House, located at 21 Linnaean Street in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is the city's oldest surviving residence, built in 1681.

On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.

The "Irish Riviera" is a nickname for the South Shore region of Massachusetts, particularly coastal towns like Scituate, Marshfield, Cohasset, and Hingham. This area has long been known for its significant Irish-American population, a legacy of immigration during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Every spring, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum showcases its annual Hanging Nasturtiums display, a tradition initiated by Isabella Stewart Gardner over a century ago.

Maple syrup is a natural sweetener made by boiling the sap of sugar maple trees until it thickens into a rich, amber syrup. Its production is a cherished tradition in regions with cold climates, especially in the northeastern United States and Canada. The process involves tapping trees in late winter or early spring when the sap flows, collecting it, and then boiling it down to concentrate its natural sugars. Maple syrup is celebrated for its unique flavor and versatility, used in everything from pancakes and desserts to savory glazes and marinades.

In 2025 and 2026, Massachusetts will proudly commemorate the 250th anniversary of the battles that shaped the fight for America’s independence. In February 2025, Massachusetts will host several events commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.

The Underground Railroad was a secret network of routes, safe houses, and individuals who assisted enslaved African Americans in escaping to freedom during the 19th century. It symbolized a courageous and persistent fight against the institution of slavery in the United States.

The Jackson Homestead and Museum, located in Newton, Massachusetts, is a historic home with a rich and fascinating past

Stay Warm and Chill in Boston: Discover Ultra-Cool Winter Roof DECKS

The New Hampshire Ice Castles are a winter wonderland and a magical must-see attraction located in North Woodstock, NH.

Massachusetts Audubon wildlife sanctuary in Lincoln, MA, is a delightful celebration of nature, tradition, and community

What makes a great Dive Bar.... cheap drinks, quirky charm, and an atmosphere that says, "Come as you are."  Here are a few of our favorites:

By now, we all know that Devon has an eye for quality and the very best. Each month, we love sharing her favorite finds with you. This month, we’re highlighting three impeccable shops that are truly unbeatable. And since February is the month of love, why not show yourself some love? Treat yourself to the supreme delights these shops have to offer—you deserve it!

In 2025 and 2026, Massachusetts will proudly commemorate the 250th anniversary of the battles that shaped the fight for America’s independence. As the birthplace of American Liberty, this historic state was where the seeds of freedom were sown, and the foundation of the nation's future was laid.

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.

“First Day Hikes" is a tradition started by state park systems inviting everyone to take a hike in a park on January 1 to encourage healthy activities in the outdoors all year long. Whether you walk, run, or even bike or paddle, come out to explore the trails in your area! Happy Trails!

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.

Transitioning from fossil fuels to electric systems for heating, cooling, and appliances—can enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. In Massachusetts, several programs offer rebates and incentives to support homeowners in making these upgrades.

The hot pot is referring to the food preparation method, a communal cooking style where diners cook ingredients in a simmering pot of broth at the table. Hot pot's origins trace back to ancient China, particularly during the Shang and Zhou dynasties (approximately 1600–256 BC). A copper pot was used during the Three Kingdoms period (220–280 AD) highlighting its historical evolution into a recognized culinary tradition.

Dry January is a month-long challenge where individuals abstain from alcohol to reset their drinking habits, improve health, or simply see how they feel without alcohol. Started in 2013 by the nonprofit Alcohol Change UK, it has since gained international popularity. Participants often report benefits like better sleep, improved focus, enhanced mood, weight loss, and financial savings. With benefits like that, we can’t think of any reason not to try it. And here’s more....

The Pierce House, located at 24 Oakton Avenue in Dorchester, Massachusetts, is a fascinating historic home and one of the oldest surviving examples of 17th-century architecture in Boston. Built in 1683, it was initially part of a 20-acre property acquired by Thomas Pierce from the Minot family in 1696. This house remained in the Pierce family for ten generations, showcasing centuries of family history and life in colonial and Revolutionary America​.

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.

We love our stocking stuffers... and we think you will too. Here are some of the things we have successfully stuffed into our stockings over the years - not the ones on our feet but the ones hanging on the mantle too!

The debate between traditional decorations and newer styles comes down to differences in style, aesthetics, and personal tastes. Read on for tips and information on decorating for the holidays in whatever style you choose.

The holiday season doesn’t have to be stressful! In fact, a few simple practices can help us keep calm, focused, and full of joy throughout this busy time. Here are some of our favorite ways to de-stress and make the most of the holidays.

We just love our Christmas Tree! Some of our staff are obsessed with selecting, decorating, and providing TLC to their perfectly chosen holiday centerpiece. We wanted to let you know about some terrific Christmas tree farms right here in Massachusetts. We’re not talking Chevy Chase-style trees—these are beautiful, real-life, memory-making farms where you can hand pick your own tree.

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.

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.

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.

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…

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.