In my world, Thanksgiving marks the official beginning of the holiday season. Retailers disagree and have already started their bombardment of early holiday sales and Christmas music. The truth is, I’m always reluctant to get pulled into the stress of holiday planning and shopping. But, magically, as soon as I start attending holiday themed events, I find myself smiling and enjoying myself.
If you’re in Boston, MA, here are some ideas to get you and your family into the holiday spirit too.
Athletic Events – so you can eat more pie
4th Annual Ultimate Bootcamp Thanksgiving Day Blast: Thursday, Nov 24 9:00 am to 10:30 am at Boston Common, Boston, MA – $20. All proceeds go to local non-profits. 90 minute work out designed to burn 900 calories – beginners welcome! Note: able to speed-walk one mile comfortably. Check the website for Framingham and Waltham info (both start at 8:00 am and end at 9:30 am).
Road Races – Turkey Trots: There are a multitude of road races scheduled on, before and after Thanksgiving day. Check out runningintheusa.com for a current list of 5k races happening in a town near you.
Frog Pond Opening – Friday, Nov 18 5:30 pm – Frog Pond officially opens. Skate for free on the Boston Common rink. Skate rentals will be at normal rates.
Arts and Crafts for Kids
Local library branches around Boston are offering free arts and craft activities for kids.
Monday, Nov 21 3:30 – 4:30 pm at Upham’s Corner Branch of Boston Public Library, Boston. Use pony beads to make fun, Thanksgiving-themed designs that can be attached to your keychain or backpack.
Monday, Nov 21, 2011, 2 – 7:30 pm. Plenty of time for children and a caregiver to join in to make gobbley-good paper craft decorations for your Thanksgiving table or house. Free and open to the public. No registration required at Hyde Park Branch Library, Boston.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011, 3:30 pm. Come celebrate at South Boston Branch Library and learn all about Thanksgiving with a story and then craft activity to take home.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011, 4:00 – 5:00 pm Make cute, colorful place cards for your Thanksgiving guests. Ages 3 & up at North End Branch Library, Boston, MA
Do a good deed
Saturday, Nov 19 at 11:00 am – Help the South End Corps distribute food for Thanksgiving in Boston. Volunteers are needed to carry Thanksgiving baskets. Wear comfortable shoes. As always, remember that limited street parking is available.
Source: Boston.com calendar
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