What To Read This Winter

Winter! It’s here. And time to curl up with a good book, a roaring fireplace and a mug of delicious hot cocoa (we sell some great, locally made cocoa in our mercantile- buy here)! We’re excited to be hosting the one and only, Lisa Genova, for our next author event lined up for Thursday, January 16th – details and tickets can be found here. Her latest novel is featured is one of my recommendations below!

More or Less Maddy

by Lisa Genova

College student Maddy is diagnosed with bipolar disorder and her seemingly perfect life is thrown into turmoil. Between hospital stays, medication challenges and her manic-fueled obsession with wanting to be a stand-up comedian or Taylor Swift biographer, Maddy’s journey is a fascinating look into the struggles of a mental health diagnosis and how it can manifest in daily life.

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The Wedding People

by Alison Espach

One of my favorite books that I read this year, the story revolves around Phoebe, who inadvertently crashes a swank wedding week in Newport, Rhode Island, and Lila, who is the bride-to-be & about to kick off a week of wedding activities. I don’t want to give too much away, but it does deal with such loaded subjects such as suicide, infertility, grief, and love.  Yet, it is witty, humorous and realistic as well. Don’t miss this one!

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Blue Sisters

by Coco Mellers
Heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. The plot revolves around three sisters who are mourning the loss of their fourth sister. It explores themes of grief, addiction, closure, acceptance, and the unbreakable bond between siblings.

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The Boyfriend

by Freida McFadden
With a twisted and an honestly unexpected ending, Freida McFadden’s The Boyfriend was a quick mystery that had me questioning my detective skills by the end. Told between two timelines, Sydney looking for the perfect husband and 16 yr old Tom taking place in the past and how their lives intertwine.

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PS – be sure to follow The Lenox Facebook and Instagram accounts for announcements on our future Author Events!

Four Nations Faceoff

The Four Nations Faceoff is a round-robin tournament hosted by the NHL featuring only star players from the National Hockey League. The four countries being USA, Canada, Sweden, and Finland form teams packed with superstars making for a series of exciting games. The faceoff is held in different cities every year and this February, the nations are coming to TD Garden and The Bell Centre in Montreal, Canada.

Each team announced its first six players June 28th and the rest of the roster will be announced between November and December, feeding into the ever growing anticipation for both players and fans. This tournament is an opportunity for the NHL and its players to be on an international stage and bring fans from across the world together.

Check out the four nations website and tickets as TD Garden prepares to represent the best of the best!

Holiday Markets Around Boston

During the months of November and December, Boston is filled with holiday cheer, and festive winter
markets begin to pop up all across the area. If you’re looking for extra special gifts to give this season
while getting into the holiday spirit, then make sure to check out these popular winter markets and fairs.

Snowport – Seaport’s Holiday Market

100 Seaport Blvd. | November 8th – December29th
The Snowport, Boston’s longest winter market, is in the heart of Seaport and is truly a winter wonderland.
The market features over 100 small local businesses selling unique gifts like crafts, jewelry, and home
goods, and many different spots for food and fresh hot cocoa. There’s also Christmas music to sing and
dance to, photo spots, and games, such as shuffleboard and curling! Check out our Snowport Blog!

Old South Church Christmas Craft Fair

645 Boylston St, Gordon Chapel | December 7th, 9:30am-3:30pm
Just steps away from the Lenox, you’ll find one of Boston’s oldest and most iconic churches, the Old
South Church. Annually, this church holds a Christmas craft fair for a day, where many New England
artists, such as jewelers, knitters, and woodworkers come in and sell a wide collection of crafts. Click here for more info!

SoWa Winter Festival

550 Harrison Avenue | Weekends during November 29th – December 22nd
The SoWa Winter Festival, located in and around SoWa Power Station, is one you can’t miss, especially
with its Trail of Lights! As Boston’s biggest holiday market, there’s plenty of artists, designers, and
vendors to check out. After some holiday shopping, you can drink some delicious, mulled wine or hot
cocoa, and try a variety of specialty food offerings. Read more about SoWa here!

Harvard Square Holiday Fair

1 Brattle Square | December 13-15 and 20-22
Boston’s oldest holiday market is back this year for two weekends! The Harvard Square Holiday Fair
showcases a large, unique selection of vendors from New England and beyond. There’s numerous gift
items to choose from, such as artisan chocolates, hand-made clothing, glass art, and much more. Click here to learn more!

Lenox Mercantile Holiday Pop-Up

Join us on Saturday, December 7th from 11am – 3pm as our local Mercantile partners take over Boylston Street for a Holiday pop-up event! From small-batch roasted coffee to locally designed watches to incredible handmade chocolates, there’s something for everyone.

OUR PARTNERS:

Back Bay Watch Co………..Boston, MA

Brown and Coconut………..Boston, MA

Chop Value…………………..Boston, MA

COOP’s MicroCreamery………..Watertown, MA

Curio Spices…….Cambridge, MA

Goodnow Farms Chocolate………..Sudbury, MA

Jack’s Snacks………..Warwick, RI

MEM Tea…………..Cambridge, MA

Q’s Nuts………..Somerville, MA

Seacoast Sweets………..Pawtucket, RI

Share Coffee Roasters………..Hadley, MA

TopShelf Cookies……………….Dorchester, MA

We’ll also have some Lenox merchandise just in time for the holidays!

ADMISSION: Free!

Shop Online

Can’t make it in-person? Shop our Mercantile online with guaranteed holiday delivery for orders in by 12/16!

Head of The Charles Regatta

The Head of The Charles is an iconic rowing race, and the biggest one in the world, attracting up to 12,000 athletes and thousands more spectators. Originating on October 16, 1965 , the regatta has welcomed the worlds best crew teams to the banks of the Charles River for the ultimate three-day rowing competition. Cambridge Boat Club founded this race on the advice of Harvard University’s sculling instructor, Ernest Arlett, as he proposed a “head of the river” race similar in tradition to races held in his native England.

Head races are a class of regattas generally three miles in length and the winning boat will be deemed the “Head of the River” until the race takes place the following year. The Head of the Charles has grown enormously popular in both the eyes of a the spectators and athletes alike making it a fierce and respected competition. This regatta winds down the scenic Charles River, along Cambridges waterfront and past Harvard University allowing amble room for viewing the race. Boston this time of year is also at its peak foliage creating a stunning backdrop for this iconic New England race.

Rev’d Indoor Cycling

Rev’d, an indoor cycling experience just steps from our front door, offers a challenging yet motivating workout for athletes of all levels. Each session is unique, combining various speeds, levels of resistance, and pieces of choreography for a full-body workout. Every trainer is there to encourage you to put new challenges in front of yourself every day and discover the best version of yourself. With state-of-the-art equipment, expert guidance, and energizing music, you’ll be ready to get Rev’d!

It can be nice to be able to enjoy a challenging fitness class while traveling! As our guest, you can enjoy a special deal—30% off single credits. Book a session for just $18, including shoe rental. Simply reach out to our team if you are interested in booking!

What To Read This Fall

Even though I’m sad that summer has come and gone (so quickly!), I do look forward to snuggling up with a book, a cup of mulled cider and a blanket on my deck! I’m excited to share some great books that I read this summer and highly recommend.

We also have a great author event lined up for Sunday, October 27th – Coffee & Croissants with Authors Lynda Cohen Loigman and Alyson Richman. Details and tickets can be found here.

All The Colors of the Dark

by Chris Whitaker
An epic story, about love, and friendship that starts in 1975 and spans decades. Patch and Saint, two childhood friends who become involved in a decades-long journey after Patch saves a girl from abduction. Beautifully written and one of my favorite books ever!
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God of the Woods

by Liz Moore
Part mystery, thriller and historical fiction, this novel about a missing child whose disappearance sends equal shockwaves through three very different worlds—an opulent Adirondack summer estate, the rustic teen summer camp that operates in its shadow, and the blue-collar community that serves them both. Couldn’t put this one down…
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Husbands & Lovers

by Beatriz Williams
In 1951 as Egypt begins protesting British occupation, Hannah, a Hungarian WWII refugee, finds herself caught up in an impossible situation. Fast forward to 2022 New England where Mallory learns it is imperative she find a kidney donor for her son. I found myself so intrigued to see how things would all come together at the end.
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The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern

by Lynda Cohen Loigman
This historical novel set in the 1920s that centers on Augusta Stern, newly retired and approaching eighty, relocates to an active senior community in Florida, she unexpectedly reunites with Irving Rivkin, the man who broke her heart sixty years earlier. In her 1920s Brooklyn youth, Augusta was torn between her father’s conventional pharmacy and her great aunt’s unconventional remedies, leading to a disastrous choice that left her disillusioned. Now, faced with Irving and haunted by past mistakes, Augusta must confront her regrets and seek to reclaim the magic of her youth before it’s too late.

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The Time Keepers

by Alyson Richman
Two women from different worlds are indelibly changed when a runaway boy is found on a street in their small Long Island town. Brought together by the love of this child displaced by war, the women find friendship and healing from their own painful pasts when their lives intersect with a mysterious wounded Vietnam vet. The vet, Jack, works at the Golden Hours, a watch store that mends timepieces—and might even mend damaged souls.

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PS – be sure to follow The Lenox Facebook and Instagram accounts for announcements on our future Author Events!

Family Fun on The Cape

If You’re looking to escape the city and explore family-friendly destinations on Cape Cod, here are a couple stops that are sure to put a smile on everyone’s face! Growing up in this area, some of my happiest memories were made during summer on the Cape.

Just an hour and a half south of The Lenox Hotel is Mashpee, MA, a fantastic place to enjoy the sun and sea with plenty of activities for everyone. The Club at New Seabury is a great lodging option, offering tennis, golf, beach access, and a ‘Kids Korner’ to keep your little ones entertained.

Nearby, Mashpee Commons boasts a variety of shops, ice cream parlors, grocery stores, and restaurants. As a child, some of my fondest memories were made here, with ice cream dripping down my wrist as I walked through the commons with my family on sunny afternoons. Having spent numerous summers in Mashpee since then, I’ve become a fan of several other places that don’t include a dripping ice cream cone. Here are some of my favorite spots for a bite to eat.

Raw Bar & Popponesset Marketplace

The Raw Bar has the best lobster rolls & mudslides if you’re looking for an afternoon bite and just next door is The Popponesset Marketplace with ice cream, shopping, live music and mini golf for an action packed afternoon. Learn More

Estia

Greek inspired cuisine with indoor and outdoor seating as well as live music, great for a light bite after walking the Commons. Learn More

Trevi Cafe & Wine Bar

Known for its lively atmosphere, great service, and shareable dishes, this makes for a perfect place to stop in after a busy day. Learn More

Siena

An Italian restaurant with large portions and an extensive kids menu! Siena offers outdoor seating on their cobblestone patio which is a great way to wind down the day. Learn More

 

Looking for some more casual options?

Wicked Restaurant

Easy to stop in for pizza to go, or sit and stay a while with their dine in option! Learn More

The Lanes Bowl & Bistro

Fun and lively bowling alley for some indoor fun if the weather does not permit during your stay. LEARN MORE

Naukabout Brewery

Good beers coupled with casual food and games for kids, great for meeting friends and family, with Ice Cream at Smitty’s to end the day! Learn More

 

Another stop I recommend if you’re traveling with family is Sandwich, MA. A popular summer destination, Sandwich is brimming with summer activities and eateries. Looking for something a bit more active? The Cape Cod Canal Museum and Visitor Center marks the beginning of a 7-mile walking and biking route, offering a scenic way to explore the artificial canal connecting the Cape to the mainland. the area also features a playground for kids, and the Pilot House restaurant is a great spot to grab a  bite after a long walk along the canal.  For fresh local seafood, try the Fisherman’s View, located directly across from The Pilot House, which offers catches from the fishermen in the marina and canal…It doesn’t get more local than that!

Sandwich also boats several fascinating museums to explore during your stay. Here area  couple of my favorites from growing up in the area.

Heritage Museum & Gardens

Their walkable gardens with floral walls offers a very scenic way to learn about some of the history and importance of the Cape. Inside they have added an old car museum giving you a look into the past – even some that you can sit in making this fun for both adults and kids! Learn More

Sandwich Glass Museum

Tour the glass museum while learning and participating in making glass figurines which you can take home with you to remember your visit to MA. Learn More

Hoxie House

This is the oldest house left on the Cape (or so they say…) you can tour for $3 and practice hauling up water from the well! A fun and affordable activity to learn about our Cape’s history! Learn More

Summer Festivals in Boston

There is no shortage of places to go and thing to do in Boston this summer! What better way to explore our city than attending one of the many festivals scheduled in the upcoming months. Below are just a few of the many options!

BOSTON PIZZA FESTIVAL

June 22 + 23  / Boston City Hall

Bring along your family and friends and relish in a 2-day outdoor festival featuring live music, fantastic food and giveaways. What could be better than an event that brings the best pizza makers together for a celebration of pizza!

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BOSTON ARTS & MUSIC SOUL FESTIVAL

June 29 – 30 / Franklin Park

Two days of R&B, funk, soul, hip hop, house and more performed by nationally acclaimed artists and homegrown talent. Immerse yourself in connection all while discovering the artistry of Black and Brown performers as they bring their culture and creativity to Boston’s largest green space.

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BOSTON HARBORFEST

July 1 – 4 / Various Locations

Activities include the annual opening ceremony in Downtown Crossing, historical reenactments, arts market, Chowderfest, live musical entertainment, fireworks, and much more!

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TENTH BOSTON JERKFEST CARIBBEAN FOODIE FESTIVAL

July 12 + 13 / Harvard Athletic Complex

A 2-day outdoor Caribbean style foodie festival that features Jamaican jerk spiced food and all things spicy and hot.

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REVERE BEACH INTERNATIONAL SAND SCULTPING FESTIVAL

July 19 – 21 / Revere Beach

The annual Revere Beach Sand Sculpting Festival is a feast for the eyes. Stroll along the beach viewing astounding sculptures crafted from sand, enjoy live entertainment, watch a fireworks display, and chow down on food from local vendors.

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CHINATOWN AUGUST MOON FESTIVAL

August 11 / Harrison & Beach Street Chinatown

Come enjoy stage performances of Asian folk dance, lion dance, Chinese opera, and other entertainment. You can also browse the many vendor tables throughout the streets of Chinatown for food, gifts and souvenirs.

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NORTH END FISHERMAN’S FEAST

August 15 – 18 / North End Boston

Each night and during weekend days there is entertainment on the bandstand and vendors selling food (Italian sausages, calamari, pizza, pasta and much more) as well as crafts.

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BOSTON ARTS FESTIVAL

September 7 + 8 / Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park

Meet the artists and craftspeople who are there to share a wide variety of art and high-end craft work, including painting, photography, ceramics, jewelry and sculpture, and much more.

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What To Read This Summer

Summer reading is something I truly look forward to. Throughout the year I keep a running list of recommendations from co-workers, friends and family and try to read as many as possible during the season. Though it technically isn’t summer yet (June 21st!), I thought it would be a good idea to give you some suggestions for your summer reading list.

First Lie Wins

by Ashley Elston
Popular young adult novelist Ashley Elston’s first thriller is a rollercoaster of a ride that will keep you engaged from start to finish! The plot is cleverly crafted with unexpected twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. Overall, it’s an excellent read that I would highly recommend to anyone who loves a good thriller.
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Real Americans

by Rachel Khong
This fascinating book by Rachel Khong is about three generations of a Chinese-American family. There are twists in the plot that I won’t tell you about, but this book covers quite a bit: historical fiction about Maoist China and the Cultural Revolution, ethics in scientific research, and an exploration of class and cultural differences. And through it all, what it means to be a “real American”.
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Darling Girls

by Sally Hepworth

If you’ve read any books by Sally Hepworth, you know to expect twists, turns, and then even more twists. Darling Girls delivers them all, and packs in plenty of complex relationships and emotions as well. After lengthy research + interviews with foster children, Sally explores the lives of three adult  women after the discovery of bones in the yard of where they met in foster care. A real page turner!
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The Women

by Kristin Hannah
This much acclaimed novel by fan favorite, Kristin Hannah, explores a woman’s experience working as a nurse during the Vietnam War. From page one, I was completely engrossed in this riveting story and fell in love with the character Frankie. This book has one of my favorite endings of all time!
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PS – be sure to follow The Lenox Facebook and Instagram accounts for announcements on our future Author Events!

July 4th in Boston

If you’re in town for the 4th of July weekend, then you’re in for a treat! Boston is one of America’s most historic cities, which means the weekend is packed with fun activities for everyone.
The celebration kicks off on July 1st with the commencement of the country’s largest 4th of July festival, Boston Harborfest.

Harborfest includes live music performances, historical reenactments, and parades from the 1st to July 4th! Some special events of Harborfest include the fireworks display show on July 1st and the Chowderfest on July 2nd, where attendees can try a wide selection of chowders from iconic Boston restaurants and vote for their favorite. On the 3rd the USS Constition & USS Constitution Museum will host a salute to service block party beginning with a 21 gun salute! The festivities conclude on July 4th with a reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Old State House balcony, followed by a reading of Frederick Douglass’ speech at the Franklin Steps in Downtown Crossing.

Later in the evening, the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular will take place at the Hatch Memorial Shell on the Charles River Esplanade from 8pm to 11pm. Special guests Darlene Love, Kelli O’Hara, and The Mavericks will be headlining this year’s show, along with the Boston Pops Orchestra.  The night will end with an amazing fireworks display at 10:30pm.

It’s a scene 20-minute walk from The Lenox to the Hatch Memorial Shell. After exiting the hotel, simply take a left to reach Boylston Street and then make a right, walking along Boylston until you reach Dartmouth Street. Turn left on Dartmouth Street until the road ends and you’ll see the Dartmouth Street Footbridge, which will lead you over Storrow Drive directly to the Esplanade, where the Fireworks Spectacular show is!

Proud to Celebrate PRIDE

Get ready to paint the town with vibrant colors, and spread waves of love as Pride 2024 takes over the city of Boston with its electrifying energy! Every June, members of the LGBTQIA+ community celebrate Pride month with various events in honor of the Stonewall riots of 1969, which was a major catalyst of the gay liberation movement.

The Boston Pride parade is returning  on Saturday, June 8 and commences in front of our hotel. Our Irish pub Sólás will open early at 10am and we’ll have DJ’s Danny T & Mikey V of City Event Group on our Boylston Street marquee to get the party started! We’ve partnered with Hornitos Tequila to celebrate PRIDE 2024 in Sólás and created a special tequila cocktail!

Check out our list of Boston Pride 2024 events in and around the city:

JUNE 1:

Pride Night with Thorgy Thor | $34+ | 7:30-9pm | Symphony Hall | Drag superstar Thorgy Thor and the Boston Pops kick off Pride Month with her take-no-prisoners comedy and self-proclaimed “fashion clown” style, and musical talents.

BIPOC Pride DTX Block Party | Free | 4-8pm | Downtown Crossing | DJ Live will be providing all the hits, with special performances from Candace Persuasion, Lilly Rose Valore, Gia D’Witches, Blacc Brandi, Zon Legacy Pheonix, The Hazzel JInx Collective and Qwam!

JUNE 2:

Pride Kickoff Boston Harbor Cruise | $55 | 2:30-6pm | Boston Harbor | Three hour cruise with complimentary buffet, cash bar, dj and dancing.

JUNE 5:

The Gayley Show with Alexa Albanese | $20+ / 7-8:30pm | The Rockwell Somerville | Don’t miss her original comedy-variety show that she’s almost as proud of as the fact that this will be “late-night comedy” at a reasonable hour.

JUNE 8:

Boston Pride for the People Festival + Parade| free  | 11am | Starting in Copley Square  going through the South End to Boston Common, where an all-ages festival with vendors, food and music is planned.

Road of Rainbows 5K Run/Walk | $35 | 10am | Boston Common | This all-inclusive event that is as much about running as it is about showing off your inner unicorn.

JUNE 9:

Femmes – Pride Brunch | $22+ | 12pm | City Winery Boston | High energy concert experience with epic sing-alongs.

Pride Saturday at Club Cafe | $ | In Person | Drag brunch in the morning (reservations recommended). Stop in any time all day to cool off, charge your phone; dancing and DJs begin at 4 p.m. and on until closing.

For a complete list of events in and around the city, visit the Meet Boston link here.

Micro Weddings at The Lenox

Looking for a small & intimate wedding? We’ve got you covered! Our Micro Wedding package allows you to say “I do” in our stunning Dome Room with up to 60 of your friends and family, without all of the fuss. Does this all sound perfect & stress free? We agree! Simply reach out to one of our Wedding Specialists today and let us handle all of the details of your Boston wedding!

 

 


 

7 Perfect Days on The Cape

My name is Nick and I have been a concierge here at the Lenox Hotel for over two years. I grew up in Harwich, a town on Cape Cod, and I wanted to share some of my favorite things to do, should you find yourself ‘on the Cape’!

You can’t think of summer in New England without instantly thinking of Cape Cod and the Islands.  Cape Cod consists of 15 different towns, and I wanted to share some of our insider tips to having a great experience while you visit. The most popular activity on the Cape are the beaches. The Cape Cod National Seashore runs up the eastern coast of Cape Cod from Orleans up to Provincetown. However, if you are looking for some other stops along the way here is a seven day itinerary written by a true local.

7 days on Cape Cod as you make your way down:

Dennis

    1. Cape Cod Museum of Art
    2. Scargo Tower
    3. Devil’s Purse Brewery – (try the Handline Kolsch!)
    4. Corporation Beach
    5. Sesuit Harbor Café
    6. Pelham house resort to end the day

Harwich

      1. Cranberry Bog Tours area  super fun activity to check out the Cape’s biggest agricultural export.
      2. Cranberry Valley Golf Course
      3. Stroll Shops of Main Street Harwich Port
      4. Freedom Ferry to Nantucket – starting May 27th, the ferry will bring you over and back from Nantucket Island. Or… stay a night on ACK and continue the fun on the Islands!
      5. Stay at the famous Chatham Bars Inn for the next two nights as Chatham is the neighboring town to Harwich! This hotel is also a Stash Rewards Hotel!

Chatham

    1. Chatham Lighthouse and Lighthouse Beach
    2. Chatham Shark Center
    3. Atwood Museum
    4. Main Street Chatham
    5. Chatham Railroad Museum
    6. Marconi Museum
    7. Chatham Fish Pier Market – great lobster rolls and views of fishing boats returning to port before returning back to the Inn

Brewster

    1. Natural History Museum of Cape Cod – great activity for kids.
    2. Nickerson State Park – great place to go hiking or rent a campsite.
    3. Captains Golf Course – 2 separate 18 – hole courses.
    4. Antique shops off of Route 6A
    5. Stay at the Candleberry Inn on Cape Cod! They offer wonderful activities ranging from horseback riding to windsurfing and so much more (not to mention they too are a Stash rewards hotel!)

Eastham, Wellfleet, and Truro

    1. Nauset Lighthouse
    2. Beachcomber Restaurant – Reopening May 25th with great views of Cahoon Hollow Beach and lively atmosphere.
    3. Wellfleet Drive-In Movie Theater – Always plays a double feature.
    4. Marconi Beach
    5. Mass Audubon Society Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
    6. Truro Vineyards. – Fantastic Wines. Great outdoor space and has a distillery as well.
    7. Payomet theater – A great place to see live music in the summer. All shows are ticketed.

Provincetown

    1. Commercial Street has some of the best art stores, window shopping, and drag shows in MA! We highly recommend
    2. Pilgrim Monument
    3. Race Point Beach
    4. Bike Trails through the Cape Cod National Seashore!
    5. Provincetown Art Association and Museum is always a hit and you might even be taking a couple pieces home with you.
    6. Staying several nights at White Porch Inn is a must. P-town has so much to offer this is a fantastic way to end your journey through Cape Cod. The Inn is easily accessible to town center and a short drive away from Wellfleet and Truro so you can easily revisit those spots! (Also, Cher once stayed here)

Calling All Boston Calling Fans

Boston Calling is a fantastically fun 3-day music festival located right here in Boston that takes place over Memorial Day Weekend. Going into its 11th year, it started off modest, getting more popular with each year. This year is Boston Calling is kicking off the weekend with Ed Sheeran, Leon Bridges, Tyler Childers, Trey Anastasio, The Killers, and Hozier as the headliners and there is always a great variety of artists each year. Running May 24th through May 26th, the festival is located on the Harvard Athletic complex in Allston, and it makes for a perfect place to see live music. The venue is set away from the city, making it a comfortable place to enjoy the music. The concert ground is a convenient 10-minute walk from the Harvard T Stop on the Red Line.

I was lucky enough to see a few artists in the last few years. The legendary Metallica still puts on a high energy show that has a set list that spans their entire career. Weezer is always a fun time, and they always play all the favorite songs you know and love.  Other highlights of this year’s line up are Jesse Murph, Renee Rapp, Megan thee Stallion and more you aren’t going to want to miss. There are also many up-and-coming artists, so maybe you’ll find your new favorite band at this year’s Boston Calling! 

Here’s what you need to know about the festival before you go:

DATES: Friday, May 24; Saturday, May 25; Sunday – May 26; various times & stages

LOCATION: Harvard Athletic Complex, Allston, MA

SCHEDULE: For a complete line-up please visit the Boston Calling site here

TICKETS: Click here for tickets

There is no lack of great food during the festival. Every year over 30 local restaurants will be on hand, providing the festival with plenty of options from your typical favorites like pizza and loaded fries to classic New England Clam Chowder and lobster rolls. The festival also features many local breweries and is sponsored by one of my favorite breweries, Sam Adams.

Summer Concert Fun At Fenway

Nothing rings in the summer season like a concert at Boston’s beloved ballpark, Fenway Park. While our boys of summer are traveling, Fenway Park transforms itself into a concert venue and this summer’s line-up brings a few new artists and some seasonal regulars!

With the addition of MGM Music Hall at Fenway, there is a multitude of concert choices from Tate McRae to blast from the past artists The Pretenders and Cheap Trick – there something for everyone! Also a few great comedy acts to throw in the mix.

Find below which artists will be performing and links to ticket information.

The Bryson Tiller Tour

MGM MUSIC HALL AT FENWAY – Thursday, May 30 and Friday, May 31
This Louiville Kentucky native serves up two shows in May. TICKETS

Bonnie Raitt: Just Like That…Tour

MGM MUSIC HALL AT FENWAY – Saturday, June 15
The iconic Bonnie Raitt stops by for a long awaited appearance in the Boston area. TICKETS

Hootie and the Blowfish

FENWAY PARK – Friday, June 21
Kane Brown and the Drunk or Dreaming Tour play for the first time at Fenway with special guests Darius Rucker, Gabby Barrett and Restless Road. TICKETS

Noah Kahan

FENWAY PARK – Thursday, July 18 and Friday, July 19
New England native to appear for two likely to be sold out shows, with special guests Mt. Joy and James Bay. TICKETS

Kane Brown

FENWAY PARK – Saturday, July 20
New England native to appear for two likely to be sold out shows, with special guests Mt. Joy and James Bay.  TICKETS

An Evening With Pretenders

MGM MUSIC HALL AT FENWAY – Friday, July 19
Chrissie Hynde and the band stop in Fenway as part of their world tour. TICKETS

Foo Fighters

FENWAY PARK – Sunday, July 21
An annual favorite at Fenway, don’t miss out on this amazing concert which will also feature special guests The Hives and Amyl and the Sniffers. TICKETS

Blink-182

FENWAY PARK – Tuesday, July 23
First time at Fenway, blink-182 will appear with special guest Pierce the Veil. TICKETS

Def Leppard + Journey

FENWAY PARK – Monday, August 5
Fenway is excited to welcome the return of legendary artists Def Leppard and Journey, joined by Heart, to America’s Most Beloved Ballpark. TICKETS

Tate McRae

MGM MUSIC HALL AT FENWAY – Friday, August 9 and Saturday, August 10
Singer/songwriter/dancer is sure to get the room up and dancing! TICKETS

Green Day

FENWAY PARK – Wednesday, August 7
Their first appearance at Fenway with special guests The Smashing Pumpkins, Rancid, and The Linda Lindas.
TICKETS

Pearl Jam

FENWAY PARK – Sunday, September 15 and
A summer tradition, Fenway Park welcomes back Dave Grohl and company for two nights, along with special Glen Hansard. TICKETS

 

A Guide to Cape Cod

I can’t think of summer in New England without instantly thinking of Cape Cod and the Islands. Route 6, which is one of  the longest highways in America, runs from Provincetown on the tip of the Cape, all the way out to Bishop, California. You’ll use route 6 should you be driving over the Sagamore heading to any of the towns on the eastern part of the Cape. Cape Cod consists of 15 different towns, and I wanted to share some of our insider tips to having a great experience while you visit.

Harwich, MA

Nestled on Cape Cods southeastern coast, this quintessential New England town offers charming villages, picturesque harbors and stunning beaches. Spend the day strolling along the Cape Cod Rail Trail or exploring the bogs of Massachusettes biggest export… cranberries! Discover the allure of this timeless town where history meets nature.

Chatham, MA

Perched on the elbow of Cape Cod, Chatham exudes class and timelessness. The shores of Chatham have become a destination for travelers from far and near. A scenic oceanside summerscape has vast oysterfarms and piers with the freshest catches and shucks everyday. With its rich maritime heritage, Chatham has an abundance of outdoor activities such as sailing, kayaking, and seal-watcing excursions. No trip down to Chatham is complete without a stop Chatham Bars inn to catch the sunset sea-side.

Sandwich, MA

Known as the oldest town on Cape Cod, Sandwich boasts its rich history. A wonderful stop for touring museums, as there is no lack of them in Sandwich, or walking through the botanical gardens. Sandwich is also home to Shawme-Crowell State Forest where many go to enjoy a leisurely picnic along the shore of Sandy Neck Beach.

Provincetown, MA

At the tip of Cape Cod sits Provincetown. Exuding vibrant spirit and artistic flare P-Town offers a unique combination of shops, galleries, night life, and beaches. The Provincetown Art Association and Museum attracts art connoisseurs from far and wide for its outstanding pieces, as well as the energetic festivals and celebrations put on all throughout Spring and Summer.

P.S.
Stop in Hyannis if you’re catching a ferry to Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard!

 

 

Explore More Cape Cod

Can’t get enough of Cape Cod? Check out some of our other posts exploring the Cape!

Family Fun on The Cape
7 Perfect Days on the Cape
Cape Cod Cones

April School Vacation

April’s school vacation is coming up and it’s never too early to start planning a fun week of activities for the family! If you need some inspiration on what to do this week, then check out the itinerary we made that includes fun for all!

Monday, April 15th (Patriot’s Day)
Watch the Boston Marathon

What better way to start April’s School Vacation Week than watching The Boston Marathon. This year, the marathon will take place on April 15th, and it’s an amazing day with runners coming from all over the world to compete in this 26-mile route and approximately 50,000 spectators watching the race. A great spot to watch the marathon is outside our hotel, with the finish line being only 132 steps away!

Tuesday, April 16th
Free Fencing Class

Looking for a unique opportunity to learn a new sport? Check out this Free offer to learn the art of olympic fencing on Tuesday from 4-5pm, at the Olympia Fencing Center in Newton, for children ages 7-12! Click here for details and to sign up.

Wednesday, April 17th
Stroll through Boston Common & Ride the Swan Boats

If you’re looking to spend some time outside this day, then we suggest making your way over to Boston Common. A day in the park is always fun, especially with cherry blossoms all over the park! The swan boats will also be available to ride for the season, so you and your family can enjoy a relaxing ride around the Public Garden Lagoon.

Thursday, April 18th
Cheer the Red Sox On

The Red Sox start their season in April, so we recommend catching a game and cheering for our beloved team. The Red Sox will be playing against the Cleveland Guardians this day at 1:35pm, so don’t miss out! Enjoy a Fenway Frank during the game or grab a meal at the many restaurants around Fenway Park after the game to conclude a fun day.

Friday, April 19th
A Day at the Museum

If you’re looking for an indoor activity, then you can’t go wrong with visiting any one of Boston’s fun museums. Some kid-friendly favorites are the Museum of Science and Boston’s Children Museum. Also, the MIT museum will be hosting a number of activities this week, including Learning Lab hours, family workshops, and more! If you want to explore other unique museums in Boston, check out a list of some we featured on our blog!

Feel free to follow along with this itinerary or add more things to do over the weekend, like visiting Franklin Park Zoo or going on a whale-watching cruise!

Five Things To Do During February Vacation

Are you planning a trip to Boston in February? Perhaps you’re taking a staycation during February’s school vacation week? We’ve got some activities for you to check out!

New England Aquarium

Sitting on the Boston Wharf, you’ll find the New England Aquarium. This aquarium is great for adults and kids alike. There’s so much to “sea” at the exhibits, such as the penguin colony, giant ocean tank to see the iconic myrtle the turtle, shark and ray touch tank, and much more. During February Vacation Week, the aquarium will be open every day from 9:00am to 5:00pm, so make sure to add it to the itinerary

Boston Common Frog Pond

The famous Frog Pond on Boston Common is still open as a magical ice-skating rink! Located in the center of the park, visitors of all ages can skate and enjoy. You can also rent a Bobby Seal to help children and beginners across the rink. The rink is open seven days a week until March, and you can check out their website for information regarding skating times, admission, and skate rentals.

Children’s Winter Festival on the Boston Common

Join Mayor Michelle Wu and the Parks and Recreation Department for the perfect afternoon activity for kids of all ages. This free event features music, giveaways, various winter attractions, treats, crafts, and much more! Wednesday, February 21, from 11 a.m – 2 p.m

Boston Children’s Museum

This landmark has been around since 1913, and includes a multitude of fun activities for kids of all ages. Both kids and parents can learn about other cultures, see exciting performances, get involved with arts and crafts and experience many other hands-on exhibits. There is also a challenging vertical maze that stands three-stories tall, and allows kids to gaze at downtown Boston through large windows. Overall, the Boston Children’s Museum emphasizes learn and play, engagement and fun, which are ideal when looking for things to do with kids in Boston.

Museum of Science

You’ll experience science and technology in a new way at the Museum of Science with a  kaleidescope of visiting exhibitions, special presentations, and 700 or so immersive exhibits! Create your own tiny flying robot bee, meet a biologically inspired cheetah robot, and move your body to create simulations based on your movements in a special mirror.  Kids can journey to the past as they examine a 23-foot long, 65-million-year-old Triceratops skeleton!

Fireside Experience Package
A bonus sixth idea – escape to The Lenox with our Fireside Experience package! Stay in one of our luxurious Executive Fireplace rooms, some of the only hotel rooms in Boston with in-room wood-burning fireplaces, and enjoy a locally made fireside snack in style with hot chocolate, marshmallows & s’mores-inspired chocolates.

Year of the Dragon

The middle of winter can sometimes feel like a race to get to Spring. But here in the Boston area, there are a number of ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year. From museums to markets to music, there is something for everybody. With one of the largest Chinese neighborhoods in the nation, don’t miss your chance to ring in the Year of the Dragon.

Below is a list of activities to help you celebrate the Lunar New Year!

Saturday, February 10th
A Blessed Lunar New Year
11am-4pm Old South Church in Boston, Boylston Street, Boston
Details here

Saturday, February 10th
LEAP Lab: Lunar New Year
Details: 2-4pm MIT Welcome Center, 292 Main Street, Cambridge
Details here

Tuesday, February 13th
2024 Chinese New Year Concert
Details: 8pm Berklee Performance Center, 136 Massachusetts Ave, Boston
Details here

Thursday, February 15th
Lunar New Year Celebration
Details: 5-10pm Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston
Details here

Sunday, February 18th
Chinese Lion Dance
Details here

What To Read This Winter

Winter is the perfect time of year to snuggle by the fire with a hot chocolate, a warm blanket and a really good book. Here are some recommendations of books I’ve read recently – Happy Reading!

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Small Miracles

by Dennis Lehane

This is an intense thriller by Dennis Lehane that takes place in Boston in 1974, when the city’s busing crisis was just getting started. The story centers around a single mother in the neighborhood of South Boston, whose daughter goes missing on the same night a Black man is found dead under suspicious circumstances.

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The Fraud

by Zadie Smith

Zadie Smith’s book delves into the Tichborne case’s controversy, where a working-class man asserted his identity as the missing heir to an affluent family’s wealth. Weaving together the narratives of Elizabeth Touchet, a white housekeeper, and Andrew Bogle, a former enslaved individual from Jamaica, this hefty novel uncovers a complex tale of intertwined lives.

MORE INFORMATION

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Astor: The Rise and Fall of an American Fortune

by Anderson Cooper + Katherine Howe

CNN journalist Anderson Cooper, along with co-author Katherine Howe, chronicles the saga of the prominent Astor. The book traces the family’s illustrious history, commencing with John Jacob Astor’s migration from Germany and his establishment within the cutthroat beaver fur trade, a business fraught with bloodshed and fierce rivalry..

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Such Kindness

by Andre Dubus III

Set in present-day Massachusetts, Such Kindness by Andre Dubus III is a tender, painful look at one man’s reckoning of an expansive life that once included marriage, a son, and owning his own business, but is now diminished to government housing, disability, and constant pain.

MORE INFORMATION
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PS – be sure to follow The Lenox Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for announcements on our future Author Events!

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