Safari #95: Sunflower Festival at Buttonwood Farm

There's no better time for a road trip than the summer, and if you're looking for a unique outdoor event, I've got just the destination for you.

Buttonwood Farm in Griswold, Connecticut is a short 1.5 hours from Boston.  Every year in late July to early August, the farm plants nearly 15 acres of sunflowers.  It is truly a site to behold.

The sunflowers are sold with all proceeds benefitting the Make a Wish Foundation - and some are made into ice cream.  Yes, ice cream.  The cows get to enjoy eating the sunflowers once the growing season has ended.

Sounds pretty good to me.

My Tips

• Check the Website.  The dates of the festival vary slightly from year to year, so be sure to check the site before you plan your trip.
• Be Prepared to Wait in Line.  If you want ice cream, you might wait up to 30 minutes in line.  The farm is great about having as many scoopers as possible, but with the demand, you can expect to wait a little.
• Bring the Kids.  Who wouldn't want to take a tractor ride out into the sunflower field?  The tractor ride is covered (so no sunburn worries there), and you'll get a bird eye view of the sunflowers in all of their beauty.  You will need to purchase tickets for the rides and wait in line depending on demand.

Safari #94: The Arnold Arboretum

Is there anything better than taking a long walk in beautiful surroundings?

Jamaica Plain's Arnold Arboretum is the perfect place for solitude, walking/jogging or even bird watching.  This urban oasis is easily accessible via car or the T (Forest Hills on the Orange Line).

One of the best views is available at the top of Peters Hill.  It's the perfect spot for reflection and catching a breeze after a brief climb.

My Tips

• Be Aware of the Rules.  Despite its size, the Arboretum does not allow picnicking of any kind.  Take a few moments to read through park policies before your visit.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes - the Arboretum has paths of varying degree - smooth pavement, dirt, and gravel.  Be sure to wear comfortable and supportive shoes that will handle all sorts of terrain.
• View the Bonsai Trees -  the Bonsai collection sits within a wooden pavilion with large slots allowing you to view the plants from the outside.  

Things to Do

• Check out a Tree Mob - want to learn more about trees?  Then try a tree mob - these scheduled events will teach you about specific trees and you'll meet new people while you're at it.  Sounds like a great activity for the tree geeks in all of us.
• Lilac Sunday - every year, do you always find yourself asking, "What should I do with Mom for Mother's Day?"  Well, the Arboretum has your answer.  Lilac Sunday is a wonderful event celebrating both Mother's Day and blooming lilacs.  Food trucks are usually available as well for this special event.

Safari #93: Plant Nite

Are you ready to add a little sunshine to your apartment?  With Spring, Mother's Day, and graduation season right around the corner, the newest craze from the makers of Paint Nite might just be perfect for you - or any other plant lover in your life.

A few weeks ago, I tried a new variation on Paint Nite called Plant Nite, and yes, it does have something to do with plants.

Plant Nite allows you to create your own terrarium using a variety of low care plants (read: hard to kill).  Similar to Paint Nite, you'll have an engaging host who totally loves plants, access to a bar, snacks, and fun tunes.

During my visit, we created a terrarium using succulents (my favorite!), however, there are other nights that incorporate different types of plants and arrangements.  Let your creative spirit guide your choice!

My Tips

• Go with Friends!  You know we've all been hiding indoors since December.  Invite your pals out, catch up, and create something that will make you smile.
• Nothing Too Nice.  Aprons will be provided but won't necessarily save you from the dirt.
• Check the Calendar.  There are events all over town, so choose the one that is best for you.

**First photo kindly borrowed from https://www.facebook.com/plantnite/photos_stream

Safari #92: Back Bay's Ayer Mansion

Happy New Year fellow travelers!  I know, it 's been awhile.  What's my excuse?  Well, I got engaged and am now planning my wedding.  More about that some other time ;)

I haven't forgotten about you, so here's a new great spot to check out the next time you're up for an adventure - Ayer Mansion in Boston's Back Bay Neighborhood.

If you enjoy early Tiffany works, then the Ayer Mansion is an absolute must see.  Located at 395 Commonwealth Avenue, it's one of the few remaining homes that Tiffany designed, so it's a rare treat to be able to visit.  You will easily be able to appreciate works of stained glass as well as mosaics.  Be sure to spend time in the foyer to view the stairway, stair risers, and spectacular light fixtures.

My tips:

• Make reservations ASAP.  Tours are limited and are only available two times per month.  A $10 donation is recommended at the time of your visit.
• Take the T.  The house is almost equidistant between Kenmore and Hynes.  Metered parking is available but limited.
• Be sure to view the exterior of the home.  You can see Tiffany stained glass from the outside as well.  

Safari #91: The Paint Bar on Newbury Street

Paint night has been a popular activity for the past few years in Boston - one that  I participated in not too long ago.  However, a new venue has opened in Boston's Back Bay, and if you haven't done a paint night yet, now it's time to go.

The paint night idea is simple: you learn how to paint and get to enjoy an adult beverage of your choice.  But the Paint Bar on Newbury Street takes it to another level; the small, intimate space (much unlike other paint night events) allows you to interact more with each other and the instructor; ours spent time teaching about basic art concepts as well as different painting techniques.  It was a great way to learn, explore, and have fun all at the same time.

Our finished painting!

The space is also available for private functions, which definitely got me thinking about future events.  Conveniently located in Boston's Back Bay, Paint Bar is easily accessible from the Green Line.  Metered parking is available on Newbury Street.

My Tips:

• Don't dress too nicely.  Even though you get to wear an apron, don't risk spilling paint on your favorite shirt.
• Eat locally.  Newbury is filled with different restaurants.  Make a night of the experience and enjoy a meal nearby.

Safari #90: Boston Public Garden Swan Boats

In the seven years I've been a Bostonian, I have never taken a Swan Boat ride in the Public Garden (smh, and you're probably shaking yours too). 

Now I can say I have, and I can also say that it was really enjoyable.  I should have done it a long time ago.  The weather was perfect and the ducks and nesting swans were enjoying the lagoon just as much as we were.

The Boston Swan boats have been continuously running and operated by the Paget family since 1877; the boats are a uniquely Boston experience, and for $3 per person ($1.50 for children), it's accessible to anyone who wishes to partake.  It's an easy activity for families, seniors, and visiting guests.

My Tips

• Visit the Gibson House First.  Back Bay residents from the 1860's did not have sprawling back yards for a reason - the Public Garden was created for strolling and time spent outdoors.  The Gibson House will give you a great look into the lives of wealthy Boston residents through architecture, decoration, and daily living.  When you're done touring the house, visit the Public Garden and take a Swan Boat ride to do exactly as they did.
• Don't Let Waiting in Line Make Your Decision. Waiting in line for a swan boat ride is fairly common and may turn those away who think they'll be waiting a long time.  On the day of my ride, there were close to 30 people in front of me, but it only took 15 minutes or so to get onto a boat.
• Pack a Picnic.  If the weather is nice and you're able to plan ahead, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the Public Garden like a Bostonian does.  On the day of my ride, it was awesome to see so many people out enjoying the garden.

Safari #89: Gibson House Museum

Boston's Back Bay neighborhood is filled with historic homes, and after recently moving there in September, my fascination with them has continued to grow.  My little apartment hardly resembles what was once a true Back Bay gem.  The sealed fireplace, crown molding, and empty chandelier medallions allude to a time that once was; a time that the majority of Back Bay residents haven't known. Until now.

The Gibson House Museum, located at 137 Beacon Street, highlights Back Bay life from 1860 to the mid 1950's.  The house is frozen in time still bearing many of it's original decorations, artwork, room arrangements, and technology (such as the central heating system).

Central Heating Chamber

Tours are guided and take place on the hour at 1, 2 and 3pm Wednesday through Sunday.  The tour takes less than an hour and admission is $9 for adults and $3 for children under 12.  Please visit the website for more information about tours and pricing.

My Tips

• Have Family Visiting From Out of Town?  Take them to the Gibson House Museum and then on a short stroll to the Boston Public Garden.  Depending on the weather, take a Swan Boat ride too.  It's the perfect way to showcase Boston's most popular neighborhoods.
• Dress Wisely.  The Gibson House was designed as a winter home as the Gibson family spent most of its time in Nahant during the summer.  If you are visiting in the summer (like I did), be sure to wear cool clothing as the house is not air conditioned.

Calling Bells - Similar to Downton Abbey!

**Gibson House Museum image kindly borrowed from Wikipedia at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gibson_House_Museum.  All other images are my own.

Safari #88: Boston Urban Adventure Quest

I run around Boston daily - but it's not every day that I get to do it with a team on a quest.

This past Saturday, a group of friends and I played Urban Adventure Quest, a quiz-based game that will take you around the city of your choice to answer trivia questions and solve puzzles.  Using your smart phone, you can use the web interface to answer questions and move through the tour.  The challenges brought us to different sites across town, each emphasizing pieces of Boston's history and culture.  Even though I've been living in Boston for 7 years now, I still learned a great deal. 

At a certain point, we began to wonder if anyone else was playing, and then we saw 3 other teams making their way around town as well.  It was awesome to feel the excitement of racing to the finish. 

Many thanks to Anshul, Jen, Supreet, and Jeff for a great afternoon!


My Tips

• Friends or Family Coming to Visit?  This is the PERFECT way to take out of town guests around major Boston sites in a completely different way.  The next time my brother comes to town, we are doing this!
• Wear Comfortable Shoes.  The tour roughly involves 2 to 2.5 miles of walking.  Be prepared!  Depending on the weather, you may wish to bring a backpack with water and other refreshments.
• Rules.  Teams can range from 2 to 5 players.  Visit the Urban Adventure Quest website for more information on how to join a tour.
• Need a Bathroom Break?  One of sites on the tour is Faneuil Hall.  Don't forget, bathrooms are located towards the center of the building, so take a break if you need one!

**Image kindly borrowed from http://www.getyourguide.com/boston-l260/urban-adventure-quest-in-boston-t18975/

Safari #87: Creating Art at the ICA's Art Lab

A few weeks ago, I dropped into the ICA's Art Lab - a space that allows you to explore your creative side using a current gallery piece or artist as inspiration.  With a moderator available to assist you, you can choose your inspiration, grab an activity bag full of supplies, and create something of your very own.

My inspiration came from artist Phillp Taaffe.  Using perspective and a sample within the gallery, I was able to try my hand at creating a perspective of my own.

As you are reading this post, you might be wondering - is this geared more towards kids? Heck no!  During my visit, there were people of all ages tapping into their own creativity.  I encourage you to tap into yours and visit as soon as you can.

My Tips

• Go Now!  The Art Lab now features work by Nick Cave. If you haven't seen this new exhibit yet, be sure to visit and then head to the Art Lab to try your hand.
• Be Flexible. The Art Lab is open Thursdays from 5pm to 9pm, and 10am to 5pm on Saturday and Sundays.  Free with museum admission. And of course, if you visit on Thursday, it's free.
• Make a day of it.  With great spots nearby in Fort Point (Drink, Tavern Road, Row 34, and Blue Dragon to name a few), why not stay in the area?

Many thanks for Anshul and Jen for joining me!

 **Art Lab image kindly borrowed from http://www.icaboston.org/programs/drop-in/nick-cave_body-work/

Safari #86: Third Thursdays at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

I finally had a chance to visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner for Third Thursdays this past week.  I had such a great time that I can't wait to again soon.

The museum itself (if you haven't been) is the personal collection of the museum's namesake.  Isabella Stewart Gardner had an amazing appetite for art, and she built the museum on Louis Prang Avenue to house her collection.  Today, visitors can enjoy her works and attend special events, such as Third Thursday.

In 2012 the new wing of the museum opened offering an onsite cafe, bookstore, library, performance hall and other educational spaces.  Third Thursday embraces these new spaces with fun and creative activities.  In addition, cocktails are served on the ground floor of the museum.  During my trip themed Midwinter Tropics, we created succulent gardens using an assortment of plants, mosses and other decorative elements.

One of the evening's highlights was artist Victoria Shen's Modernist Manicures. These tiny creations embraced Victoria's vision of accessible art; viewers can sometimes find modern art difficult as it challenges our traditional understanding of art.  Victoria's masterpieces make modern art more understandable through personal interaction and ultimately by allowing the viewer to wear it.

Here's a short video of the finished work:

**Image of the interior courtyard of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum kindly borrowed from http://bagendhobbits.blogspot.com/2007/08/isabella-stewart-gardner-museum.html

Safari #85: Cathedral of St. John the Divine

I just love it when my out of town adventures have connections to Boston.

The Upper West Side of Manhattan is home to the Cathedral of St. John the Divine - the 4th largest church in the world.  Whenever I  leave the city, I always pass it (mouth agape) as I make my way up Amsterdam Avenue.  For years, I've wondered about the interior. Until now.

I recently took a climbing vertical tour of the church that highlights the art and  architecture as you make your way up. The details of the construction are unbelievable, and if you've read my other art and architecture related posts for Boston and New York, some of the connections I'm about to mention are incredible too.

The Cathedral was designed by George Lewis Heins and Christopher Grant LaFarge, son of John LaFarge, the famous designer of the stained glass windows in Trinity Church.  Both met while studying at MIT and worked with Henry Hobson Richardson, the architect of Trinity Church.  In addition, the numerous vaulted ceilings inside the church were designed by none other than Rafael Guastavino, one of the designers commissioned to work on our own Boston Public Library as well as the tiled vaults of the NYC Subway's City Hall Station.

I'm always amazed to see how interconnected our cities are using the lens of art and architecture.  I hope this post inspires to you climb to new heights this year, travel outside of your comfort zone, and discover new connections.

My Tips:

• Check out the Tours! The Cathedral is open to the public, but to get the best view, sign up for a tour.  Our docent was informative and friendly, and I never thought I'd see the roof from above the church itself!
• Afraid of Heights? The Vertical Tour might not be for you.  If you decide to go, you can walk back down at any time.
• Wear comfortable shoes. I'd recommend sneakers or something with a rubber sole.

Safari #84: Fort Independence on Castle Island

On Columbus Day weekend, my boyfriend made the excellent suggestion of heading to Castle Island in Southie for a stroll.  When we arrived, we found ourselves drawn to Fort Independence, and before we knew it, were signed up to join a tour.  Little did we know that it was the last tour of the season.  Lucky us!


Fort Independence is the oldest continually fortified site in North America, and today, visitors can take a free guided tour to learn more about its military history during the Revolutionary war as well as World War II.  Our tour guide, Dan Burns, was friendly, informative, and did a wonderful job of incorporating the children on tour into his presentation. 

I think they had just as much fun as we did.

My tips:

• Follow the rules.  The only way into the fort is via a guided tour, and visitors are asked to remain with the tour group at all times.
• Bring Your Camera. If the day is sunny, you'll love the views of the Boston Harbor islands as well as the skyline.  Don't forget your zoom lens! 
• Make a donation.  The Castle Island Association is entirely volunteer based and is able to operate tours thanks to donations from the community.  Be sure to make a donation to keep this great programming running.
• Visit on Halloween.  Fort Independence hosts a one of a kind Halloween spectacular every year.  Members of the local community decorate the halls as well as pass out candy.
• Eat at Sullivan's. It's a Southie landmark, so get a quick snack served with Bahwstin style. 

**First kindly borrowed from http://www.bostonharborwalk.com/placestogo/location.php?nid=6&sid=44. Second image courtesy of Anshul Jain.

Safari #83: Whale Watching with Boston's Best Cruises

Call me Ishmael (or Cristy, if you please).

It was high time that I got to sea to catch a glimpse that elusive creature - and Boston's Best Cruises was there to help make it happen.

This past Sunday, I took a 3.5 hour cruise to Stellwagen Bank, part of the larger Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, a federally protected marine sanctuary that begins in the mouth of the Massachusetts Bay and sits between Cape Ann and Cape Cod.  Stellwagen Bank is ideally situated on a plateau pulling rich nutrients and phytoplankton from the deep and raising them to the surface.  Due to this key feature, the area is a popular feeding ground for whales.  Our cruise ship was on an adventure to find feeding whales including humpback and Minke. 

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary

Sadly, while the weather was perfect, we did not see any whales.  Even though I was disappointed, I was happy knowing that I would get to enjoy another whale watch compliments of Boston's Best Cruises policy. If you go on a watch and don't see any whales, you get a voucher to return and try another time.

I'll be sure to share an update once I go on the next watch.

My tips:

• Bring a Jacket.  Regardless of the temperature, bring a jacket to make yourself comfortable. The water temperature at the time of my trip was 61 degrees, and with the winds, things got fairly chilly.
• Bring a snack. In an effort to make your trip the most comfortable, Boston's Best allows you to bring your own beverages and snacks if desired. There are concessions available as well serving beer, soft drinks, bottled water, and food.
• Consider Help. Boston's Best provides complimentary ginger ale and sickness bags should you start to feel ill while on board.  It is also recommended to sit on the first deck of the ship as this tends to experience less swaying and bouncing as opposed to the top deck.  If you are generally sensitive to boat rides, you may also want to consider taking Dramamine just before the cruise gets underway.  

**Image kindly borrowed from Boston's Best Cruises http://bostonsbestcruises.com/best-boston-whale-watching-2013

Safari #82: Manicure Monday at the Liberty Hotel

The approach of Monday morning elicits nearly the same response from everyone.  

This summer, change your tune and turn your manic Monday into a manicure Monday - an evening to hang out with girlfriends and get a fresh coat of perfectly applied nail polish.  You'll be regenerated and refreshed to face the rest of the work week - in high style.

Held in the Liberty Hotel's Yard, you can nosh small bites, enjoy expertly made cocktails, and sit within the outdoor courtyard well encapsulated from the hustle and bustle.  Miniluxe, well known in the Boston area for its best in class, ultra hygenic nail services, will provide you with a free manicure.  You'll look so good when you leave that you won't even care about the fact that the week is only beginning. 

Manicure Monday's are held every Monday from 5:30 to 7pm (weather permitting) and continue through the last Monday in August.  Don't miss your chance!

My Tips

• Sign In.  When you arrive, locate the attendant to place your names on the wait list.  While you wait, select your color and visit the bar.
• Bring Cash.  Since the event is free, don't forget to tip your aesthetician as well as your server.
• Hang out.  After your manicure is finished, stick around to dry off and take in the view.  Order a beverage while you're at it ;)

**Image kindly borrowed from Pop.Bop.Shop at http://popbopshop.blogspot.com/2013/08/shop-miniluxe-nail-polish.html

Safari #81: Davis Flea Market

I love visiting vintage markets on Sunday afternoons.  I don't know if it's the thrill of the hunt or the excitement that I'm doing to discover something both awesome and inspiring.  I think it's both.

If you're looking for that just right sized table or extra glasses for the kitchen, visit the Davis Flea.  Located right in the heart of Davis Square, on Holland Street inside the municipal parking lot, this market focuses less on food items and clothing (even though both of those things are great too), and more on tchotchke's, glassware, furniture, lighting fixtures, mirrors, prints, vintage maps and other randomly inspired objects d'art.

If you have recently moved or are looking for something to inspire your pad, be sure to visit.  If you have extra time on your hands to include brunch too, try Johnny's D's.  The jazz brunch was fun, and the food and crowd were great too.

Safari #80: deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum

A walk through the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln, MA is a wonderful experience for all ages. Without even trying, your curiosity will lead the way allowing you to discover creatures, sculptures, and anything else your imagination may conjure.

The sculptures were so well incorporated with their surroundings that it was surprising to stumble upon some of them.  I loved the adventure.  And you will too.    



My tips:

• Free? Yes, there is free admission every Wednesday for all visitors.  Lincoln residents have free membership at any time. 
• Like to Bike? Excellent.  Ride your bike to the museum and your entrance is free. And with a picnic lunch (see below), you've got a great day ahead of you.
• Pack Up.  A number of visitors, regardless of entry level, brought picnics with then to enjoy the view and the lush surroundings.  I suggest you do the same.
• Go to the Top. Don't forget to get a view of the entire park from the roof deck.  You'll have a view of the outdoor park as well as the nearby reservoir - simply magnificent! 
• Do Yoga.  The park offers many great events, including yoga.  See the special event schedule for more information.

Safari #79: Boston's 4th of July Fireworks

Every 4th of July, I rally to find the perfect spot to watch Boston's fireworks.

This year, the view I found was different. In fact, it broke my heart.

Whatever your feelings about American politics, one fact will always ring true: we are fortunate. Part of what makes this possible are those who serve to protect and honor our freedom.

But when returning from service, the transition for veterans isn't always easy.  Shelter Legal Services (SLS), a non-profit law firm, helps to make that transition easier.  This year, SLS provided my view of the fireworks as a part of their yearly fundraiser.  The event allowed me to get closer to both the fireworks - and veterans.

While I stood there watching the fireworks explode, my heart swelled, my eyes watered, and my throat closed.  I couldn't breathe, and then I realized where all my emotion came from: I was proud.  I was thankful.

And I will always be.

My tips:

• Attend the Fundraiser.  The event sells out every year, so make sure you inquire early about tickets.  Your ticket includes food, hors d'ouveres, and cocktails/soft drinks -  not to mention the view of the Esplanade fireworks.
• Rather Make Your Own Plans for the 4th? No problem. Shelter accepts donations year round.  There is always a way for you to help.

Safari #78: Boston Duck Tour

Do you have out of town visitors heading your way this summer? If so, here's one perfect way to introduce them to our beloved Hub - a Boston Duck Tour.   

And now after my first tour, I can see what everyone has been quacking about.

Duck boats are amphibious vehicles that allow you to see Boston from both the street - and the water. These historic tours take you through Boston's quintessential neighborhoods all the while sharing history, tips, and secrets along the way.

It's the perfect introduction to the city for tourists, newbies, and locals - who may need a reminder of all the wonderful things at their fingertips. The views of the city from the Charles River - especially on gorgeous summer day - will leave you longing to take a stroll, jog, or kayak trip on the Esplanade.

**If you want to make a full day of your trip, try the fixed price lunch at Top of Hub or a frosty beverage afterwards and continue delighting your guests with awesome views of the city.

Sounds like the perfect day to me.

My Tips:

• Book Early. Boston Duck Tours are very popular with locals and tourists alike. As soon as you make your plans, act fast.
• Take the Tour from the Prudential Center. Don't get me wrong - the Museum of Science and Aquarium locations are great, especially if you plan to take your guests there.  However, if you want to get off the boat and go to any of the sights you saw while on board the Duck, catch your tour from the Pru.
• Kids Are Captains. Under the careful guidance on your tour guide, small children are allowed to steer the boat when it's out on the Charles River.  What a great way to make a memory last for a little one!
• Special Needs? If you are planning to take small children or elderly passengers with you, keep in mind that you may need extra time getting on and off of the vehicle. If you have a passenger with special needs, try to make arrangements to sit right up front or in the last row as there is more room in both locations.  Speak to the tour representative for more details.
• Make a Donation. When you purchase your tickets online, you have the opportunity to round up your purchase to the next dollar to make a charitable donation to Community Boating - easily viewable from the water portion of the tour. 

**Thanks to the Marriot Courtyard for the image!

Safari #77: NYC's Old City Hall Subway Station

Fellow travelers, every once in a while, I head down to NYC for a new adventure.  And whenever I do, I always share.  This adventure is truly one of a kind.

In Boston, there are many abandoned subway stations, but we rarely get to pass through them - legally. Last weekend, I had the opportunity to visit what was once the shining beacon of NYC subway - the old City Hall station.

Built originally as the terminal station of the Lexington Avenue Line (the first line built for the NYC Subway), the City Hall station was meant to inspire travelers with its beauty. The station tunnel contains 15 vaulted archways (designed by R. Guastavino - the same designer of the vaulted Bates Hall in the Boston Public Library), some of which include glass skylights that allow natural light underground via small glass squares at the surface.

In the mid-1940's, the station was abandoned as travelers began to use the newly build Brooklyn Bridge station with connections to multiple lines.

It's sad to think that something so beautiful sits alone, longingly awaiting the light of a passing train.

Catch Your Glimpse

• Take the 6 Train. The 6 train (downtown) ends at the Brooklyn Bridge station.  At the final stop, passengers are asked to leave the train, but stay on board.  The train will turn around within the City Hall station, allowing you to catch a rare glimpse of the vaulted tunnel and skylights.
• Take a Tour with the New York Transit Museum. After becoming a member of the museum, you can register to take a private tour with the museum.  You will board a 6 train and be able to get out and walk within the station itself.  A docent is available to discuss the history of the station itself as well as the New York subway system. 

Safari #76: Boston Dragon Boat Festival

How many events can boast that they are the largest in the United States?

Well, the Boston Dragon Boat Festival can - and it's right in your backyard.



Taking place over the course of two days, the festival is full of cultural performances, street vendors, and of course, boat races along the Charles River. It is the first and largest dragon boat festival in the country, and it has been taking place since the late 1970's.

Nearly 50 teams compete in racing heats over the weekend, with the final winners crowned towards the end of the day on Sunday. The event is great for all ages as there is something for everyone. 

My Tips:

• Free. The festival is free, but if you're so included, make a donation to the organization.
  
  
  
• Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. The only way to find a comfortable seat is to grab some grass.
• Places to Watch. Both the John W. Weeks bridge and the Cambridge side of the Charles River are great places to view the shows. In additional, the street festival and cultural performances are located there as well.

Images kindly borrowed from http://www.flickr.com/photos/leslee/8999340652/sizes/l/in/set-72157634028471973/ and http://www.flickr.com/photos/leslee/8998154589/in/set-72157634028471973