And the Independence Day celebrations continue with this one-of-a-kind event. The annual free outdoor Fourth of July concert is in its 43rd year and is ready to show America one hell of a time! It’ll be the last Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular put together by founder David Mugar, who announced last year that he’ll be stepping aside and letting someone else produce the event after the 2016 celebration. If you can't actually be there in person, not to worry, the concert will be broadcast live during a unique two-hour special on CBS from the Charles River Esplanade starting at 9 p.m., Monday, July 4.
If you do plan on attending, gates open at 9AM and the pre-show festivities begin at 7:30PM. There are a number of prohibited items so please check that out before you head over to the DCR Hatch Shell. As you may know, Mugar started the fireworks concert in 1974 with legendary Pops conductor Arthur Fiedler. Under Mugar, the event began performing Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” with the night’s fireworks, cannons, and church bells, making the iconic composition synonymous with Boston’s Fourth of July celebration. You can see why the event is in its 43rd year. A true tradition in the heart of Boston, we are sad to see Mugar go but excited to see what the future productions have in store for us!
This year the live performance will feature artists Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas, who are currently on tour together. Usually the concert airs for one hour on network broadcasts and two hours locally, but the pop star guests garnered heightened coverage for the Boston tradition. The pair will perform some of their most popular hits—like Lovato’s “Cool for the Summer,” which hit number one on iTunes in 37 countries within hours of its release, and Jonas’s triple-platinum single “Jealous”—with the Boston Pop Orchestra, led by conductor Keith Lockhart. The free concert attracts more than half a million fans to the Esplanade each year. Don't worry if you miss out on Lovato and Jonas, as we mentioned earlier, the pair are on the road together and will be performing again in Boston at the TD Garden July 20 for their “Future Now” tour.
We are truly excited to see these two perform on the most patriotic day of the year in our very own hometown (and for the fireworks as well)! Join us as we devour the details of the 4th of July with the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular!
Since it's almost Independence Day and one of the best ways to celebrate is with fireworks, we thought this post was absolutely necessary, especially for brides planning their wedding around the 4th of July! You may consider having a fireworks display at your reception but we know this can be costly and also not allowed at certain venues. So instead we wanted to share some ideas on how to incorporate this element into your reception without the hassle. From bouquet to drink stirrers, check out these fabulous firework inspired details that will have your guests swooning!
Brightly Colored Dahlia Bouquet
These dahlias mimic the shape of a firework right when it goes off. We love the illusion this creates and how it adds to the theme as you walk into your reception.
Shimmering Bridesmaid Gowns
Because of course you want your closest girlfriends to sparkle on your big day! These beautifully beaded gowns are a delicate display of what a firework looks like as it fades away.
Hanging Light Globes
When you look quickly, these globes actually look like a firework exploded! We love how the wood frame is almost hidden in the night sky, leaving the twinkle lights as the focal point.
Displayed on Your Cake
This is just the right amount of what you would want to display on your cake. Simple yet elegant and fits right into the theme!
Sparkly Drink Stirrers
How fun are these? They photograph so well and your guests will enjoy them all night as they sip on your signature cocktail!
A Glittery Goodbye
Have your guests share in a glittery goodbye with you after the reception wraps up. Similar to confetti but you get that extra shimmer in photos that reminds us of a fading firework!
Sparkler Send-off
Illuminate your exit with a simple sparkler send-off. Much more cost effective than real fireworks and it gives your guests a chance to participate!
Regardless of the real thing or in the details, it is without a doubt that you'll be seeing fireworks when marrying the one you love (we just hope these ideas inspire you along the way to devour the details of your reception)!
There's nothing better to cool down with than a cocktail on the 4th of July! Add some patriotism by sticking to a red, white and blue color scheme and voila, you've got yourselves a celebration. Gather around for some fireworks and cheers to this country we call home with these four essential 4th of July cocktails. Here's to you America!
Sour Watermelon Shandy
The combination of two summer barbecue staples, watermelon and beer, make this the perfect libation for a 4th of July celebration. Get the recipe here!
Lady in Blue
The bright blue color draws you in but the taste and temperature is what makes it truly refreshing. Best served chilled, learn how to make this cocktail here!
White Peach, Basil and Coconut Mojito
Raise your glass to warmer weather knowing you'll stay hydrated with this cocktail! Enjoy each component of this mojito and get to sipping this recipe here.
Frozen Rum Lemonade Daiquiris
These slushy creations hit the spot on a hot day like the 4th. You might get a brain freeze but you need to try this recipe!
Celebrate America and devour the details of these four essential 4th of July cocktails!
Do you dream of a tropical getaway? Somewhere sunny with white sand, blue sky and crystal clear water? Have you thought about it so much so that you start to see signs every where you turn, telling you it's time for a much needed vacation? We're right there with you! That being said, we're bringing you a great Monday Mashup; making your tropical dreams a tasty reality but no plane ticket required. Check out our favorite palm tree creations that will satisfy you until you've managed to plan your next vacation!
Serve it in the morning, on your coffee..
Stack it up for your fruit platter..
Go green with these veggie treats..
Might be a little cheesy, but we love how cute this dish is..
And for dessert, these cupcakes will do!
Quit dreaming of a vacation and take a little getaway with these palm tree inspired treats! Devour the details of a tropical paradise, one bite at a time!
Summertime is all about fun in the sun and relaxing. But sometimes when you're the host of a 4th of July celebration, you might get a little cray cray. From to do lists to food prep, you'll be overwhelmed with emotions. Not to worry, it's always worth it in the end to know you threw one bangin' BBQ that totally impressed your guests. That being said, here are our six favorite GIFs that sum up our emotions when planning a 4th of July cookout!
Emotion 1: Motivation
You always start out very eager and motivated. You drive over to the grocery store with your shopping list and realize you're a little in over your head.
Emotion 2: Shock
Hamburgers, hotdogs, buns, condiments, plastic utensils, plates and cups; it all starts to add up! Dollar signs are flying around your head but you take a deep breath and reassure yourself that at least you already got paid this week.
Emotion 3: Confident
You start to feel like you've got it all together. Make pasta salad, check! Cut up watermelon, check! Fill the coolers, check! See, this isn't so bad.
Emotion 4: Pure Joy
The cookout is all set up. Your guests start to arrive. After a few drinks, someone turns the music up and it's go time. This is what you've been waiting for!
Emotion 5: Resentful
When the party is over and all you want to do is go to bed but you realize you have to clean up. If there are any stragglers, they better stay out of your way!
Emotion 6: Proud
Yes, you did it again. Another successful 4th of July BBQ in the books! Now you don't have to think about this again for a whole year.
We know exactly how you feel! Don't worry, we have faith that you can put your emotions in check and devour the details of an epic 4th of July celebration. You got this!
The Maid of Honor is typically charged with the responsibility of putting together a fun-filled, non-stop, over-the-top or low-key party for your bachelorette. A last hoorah before you tie the knot! We've seen just about everything from a spa getaway and beach trip to a cruise and reserved table at a dance club. Vegas, for instance, is the ultimate escape for a final fling before the ring. If this is what your MOH chooses, you're in good hands! Vegas offers so many amenities and is really taking things to new heights for your bachelorette bash.
If you're looking to relax but also enjoy an exhilarating ride 550 feet above the ground, we've got the perfect idea for you! As of yesterday, June 21, which so happened to be International Yoga Day, the High Roller Ferris Wheel (the focal point of the LINQ hotel promenade in Las Vegas), opened a unique yoga experience that sort of defies gravity. That's right, you can jump in one of the Ferris wheel pods and find your inner balance while taking in the views of the Strip. Amazing!
Each enclosed cabin on the wheel can fit up to six yogis, plus an instructor who'll guide you through relaxing poses while the High Roller goes around its loop two times. Participants wear headphones while taking the class so they can listen to soothing music while getting instruction with an audio track. Sessions will be held every day of the week for $75 per person, or $300 per couple for private sessions. And get this—for $85 per person, you can chant "om" while watching the sun set over the Las Vegas skyline. We know you'll be saying "nah-I'mma-stay" for that!
So pass this idea along to your Maid of Honor and devour the details of one incredible bachelorette party experience! We can't wait to try it ourselves! Namaste!
What's better for dinner in the summertime than anything on the old barbecue? Nothing! Besides maybe a group of the best Boston chefs grilling a delicious meal up for you. Yes you read that right! Join us at the Seaport Boston Hotel & World Trade Center for the 19th Annual Chefs in Shorts event this Friday, June 24 from 7PM to 10PM and bring your appetite.
Some of the city’s most talented chefs will be grilling just for you at this event! Here are some of the flavor creators you can expect to be there:
Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center, Karen Hodsdon Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center, Richard Rayment TAMO Bistro & Bar, Robert Tobin Artbar, Brian Dandro Ashmont Grille, Chris Douglass Bastille Kitchen, Adam Kube Brasserie JO, Nicholas Calias Coppersmith, Jason Heard Davio's Northern Italian Steakhouse, Rodney Murillo Deuxave, Shaun Velez Earl's Kitchen + Bar, Cyrus Winter Five Horses, Aaron Parsons, Erica Keefe Foundry on Elm & Saloon, Shayne Nunes Gather, Dennis Wilson Harvard Club Boston, Dean Moore Kashmir, Harjit Pabla Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar, Matt Drummond Lucca Back Bay, Andres Cruz Ocean Prime, Mitchell Brumels Pete & Gerry's Eggs, Karl Johnson Philip R's, Philip Rotondo RFK Kitchen, Rachel Klein Scampo, Alex Pineda Serafina, Brendan Burke Tavolo, Chris Douglass The Salty Pig, Josh Turka The Tip Tap Room, Brian Poe & Emmett Ledbetter TRADE, Cory Seeker Waterline, Joe Florio Worden Hall, Tim McQuinn
Tickets are just $80 and include complimentary beer, wine and tastings. Count us in! And once again this year, guests will be invited to vote for their favorite dish. This event is a great way for these talented chefs to get some face-time and publicize their restaurants but also gain some bragging rights! You won't leave unsatisfied.
This year's beneficiary is once again, Future Chefs. Future Chefs’ mission is to prepare urban youth in Greater Boston for quality early employment and post-secondary education opportunities in the culinary field and to support them in developing a broad base of transferable skills as they transition into the working world. Future Chefs in the perfect organization for this event to support. We love this collaboration! For more information visit their website.
Be sure to use the hashtag #2016CIS on your Tweets, Facebook posts and Instagram photos so your friends can see how much fun you're having and devour the details of the Chefs in Shorts: Summer in the City Barbecue!
If you're from New England, you long for the summer, not just because it's beach weather, but also because it's the best time of year to get the tastiest and freshest lobster rolls the ocean has to offer! Hot or cold, served up in a buttery roll with some mayo or lemon, nothing hits the spot quite like a sandwich packed with lobster or should we say lobstahhh. Whether you're seaside or inside, you can't go wrong with ordering this dish off the menu at these restaurants! Check out our five favorite places to get a lobster roll this summer.
This happening spot was featured on the Travel Channel and named one of the best by Improper Bostonian and Boston Magazine. We trust their reliable tastebuds! Belle Isle's lobster roll is comprised of a heaping pile of tail, claw, and knuckle meat and a tad of mayonnaise on a crisp hot dog bun. So good!
East Boothbay serves up their lobster on an artisanal roll instead of the traditional hot dog bun, setting them apart from other local eateries. Their roll is packed full of lobster and is topped off with mayo, lemon zest, and salad greens. So fresh!
You might be surprised to find a good lobster roll in Connecticut but we'll tell you, nothing beats this glorious creation! Served up both hot and cold, the mound of lobster meat in this sandwich takes center stage. You won't find anything like it anywhere else!
Voted five years in a row as the best lobster roll in the state of New Hampshire speaks volumes for The Beach Plum. Their overstuffed roll comes in different sizes (six, eight, 10-ounce or foot long) and is packed with flavor. You can't bite into this one without losing a few good pieces!
These lobster rolls are served "naked" with mayo and butter on the side so you can prepare them to your liking! With a generous amount of lobster served, this overflowing sandwich doesn't even have room for condiments. Enjoy each bite, it's so worth it!
When all you're craving is some buttery-deliciousness as you travel through New England this summer, be sure to stop in and devour the details of each of our five favorites! You won't be disappointed!
It's looking like a good weekend to be outdoors! Temps ranging from mid-70's to low-80's. Nothing better for June weather. If you're like us and ready to feel the sun and get some fresh air, then we'll probably see you at these upcoming Boston events. Check 'em out!
Donna Summer Memorial Roller Disco
Bring on the Hot Stuff and join the people of Boston at City Hall Plaza this Friday night to celebrate Dorchester's very own Donna Summer. Strap on those roller skates (or rent them there), and boogie down to her chart-topping tunes! It’s free to groove, all are welcome, and if you can’t skate, just dance your butt off instead. This event kicks off at 6 p.m. and is free for all ages. Meet us there!
BASK, an LGBTQ People of Color Pride Picnic
Yoga, music, poetry, and much more will fill Gertrude Howes Playground in Roxbury for a celebration of Boston’s LGBTQ people of color. In light of the recent tragedy in Orlando this past weekend, it is important that we come together as a community to support one another and remember those whom were taken from us too soon. As you know from my post earlier this week, June is pride month, so please join us! The fourth annual event will be the perfect way to get outside and show your pride. The picnic starts at 12 p.m. on Saturday and is free for all ages!
Sierra Nevada Beer Camp Festival
A traveling summer camp is touring the nation and is stopping at City Hall Plaza this Saturday. This is definitely not your average summer camp though! The thing about this summer camp is it's filled with kegs of beer. Sounds like our kind of camp! Thirty brewers will be serving up some tasty refreshments, while some of Boston’s finest food trucks will provide the sustenance. A fine way to beat the heat this weekend if you ask me! You can stop by starting at 1 p.m. for an adult beverage. This event is 21+ and tickets range from $50-$70. Cheers!
We hope you can take a little time this weekend to visit the city and devour the details of these summer fun events. Hope to see you there!
It is without a doubt that the world we live in now revolves around our mobile devices. We are constantly on our phones, using data, posting to social media and sharing information via the inter-webs. Knowing that technology will be a huge element of your wedding (from your hashtag to your videographer), why not prepare your bridesmaids with the tools they'll need to keep the Instagramming going all night? Here are our top gifts for your tech savvy bridesmaids!
Phone-Charging Wristlet
Everpurse x Kate Spade New York Quentin Stripe wristlet pouch for $198. In between all the picture taking and day-of texts and phone calls, your closest gal pals will have fully charged phones from morning mimosas to the wedding after-party. Lucky for you, they will be able to capture every single moment from putting on your shoes to your 'I Dos'. When it's not in use, set the purse on top of its wireless charging platform to recharge, and be on your way again. Easy as that!
Vibrating Notification Bracelet
Rebecca Minkoff notification bracelet for $120. Instead of feeling like they need to keep an eye on their phone all the time, you know for those minor wedding hiccups, they can pair this bracelet with their phone via Bluetooth, program up to 25 different contacts, and be alerted of texts and calls through a vibration notification. When the phones are away, the girls will play! Plus this bracelet pairs well with a Roaring 20's themed reception. We love it!
Notification Cocktail Ring
Ringly Out to Sea ring for $195. Your bridesmaids can connect their phone (iOS or Android) and set custom colors and vibration patterns for different types of notifications (email, text, call). A fantastic accessory for a wedding or every day in the office. Let your bridesmaids have fun with this glowing piece of jewelry. You can even choose from eight different precious and semiprecious gemstones for personalized gifting!
USB Leather Tassel Keychain
Belkin MIXIT↑ Lightning to USB Leather Tassel for $34.99. Clip this onto a purse or tote and you’ll be able to charge your iPhone at a moment’s notice. Your bridesmaids need to stay charged up in case of emergency and to share how exciting your wedding experience is! The leather tassels hide the USB and lightning cables and it comes in four colors: black, gold (brown), gray, and a reddish pink. Perfect for any girlfriend!
Bluetooth Speaker Clutch
Stellé Audio Mini-Clutch speaker for $149. This perfect clutch doubles as a Bluetooth-compatible, six-watt speaker—say what? It even has an auxiliary cord to pair with any non-Bluetooth device. Your girls can be shaking and grooving way before the reception! And as for practicality, there's a built-in mirror for pre-wedding photo touch-ups and a microphone for hands-free phone calls (and a USB phone-charging cable!). This purse has it all!
Smart Notification Necklace
Vinaya Altruis rose gold and white smart notification necklace for $430. Another perfect piece of tech jewelry to pair with any bridesmaids dress! This necklace also syncs via Bluetooth and has different vibration patterns for each notification (email, call, text) so your bridesmaids can always be on high alert and styling. In the wise words of Beyoncé, flawless!
Surprise your bridesmaids with these tech savvy gifts and devour the details of a well-connected wedding!
For years, people of different race, ethnicity, gender and sexuality have been fighting for their rights. In light of the recent tragedy in Orlando, Florida, we wanted to take the opportunity to recognize the continued efforts of all human beings to be treated equally; primarily today focusing on the LGBT community. On June 26, 2015, almost 365 days ago, the Supreme Court ruled to make same-sex marriages legal across the United States; finalizing a trend that began in Massachusetts in 2004--when the state became the first to marry gay couples. Nearly one year later, we stand together and stronger than ever to recognize that we all deserve to have the same rights instituted by this country's founding fathers. That being said, we are here today to ask you all to celebrate with us on June 26, in honor of this important moment in history. Here's how you can do so:
The Equality Fund at the Boston Foundation was established in 2012 with two primary goals: making high-impact grants available to the most innovative nonprofits serving the diverse members of the LGBTQ community; and building a permanent endowment that will benefit the LGBTQ community of Greater Boston forever. The Fund is guided by an Advisory Committee made up of members of the LGBTQ community and allies who possess a breadth of understanding about the most pressing issues affecting our community today. Please consider donating so we can continue to share the wealth of knowledge regarding LGBTQ challenges and accomplishments with the community!
The GLSEN RESPECT Collection supports lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth and their allies of all ages who champion respect and acceptance for all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. Their mission is to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community where all can feel safe and respected. Shop GLSEN and wear your pride on your sleeve!
Be An Equality All Star
Kick down the doors and fight for the freedom to be you! Join Converse in celebrating pride with these rainbow and star-printed Chuck Taylors. Get a pair today!
Support Local and National Businesses that Acknowledge Corporate Equality
Be a conscious shopper, and check in with your go-to stores to make sure their policies are LGBT-inclusive. To get you started on a national level, CVS, Apple, Hershey, Macy’s, Starbucks, and Coca-Cola all scored 100% equality ratings on the Human Rights Campaign’s 2015 Corporate Equality Index. Just last year, Doritos participated in a campaign with the It Gets Better Project in support of the LGBT community. This national recognition is imperative to spreading the word to those uneducated about corporate equality.
And before we get to our last way to celebrate, here's a little more knowledge for you...
If you didn't know, President Obama released a Presidential Proclamation officially declaring June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month. A huge win for the LGBT community. President Obama encourages all of us to “eliminate prejudice everywhere it exists, and to celebrate the great diversity of the American people”. Preach! In this case, the diversity he speaks of is represented by the rainbow LGBT flag created by San Francisco artist Gilbert Baker in 1978.
So in order to honor this special month, learn more about LGBTQ history, and celebrate with us on June 26, you should indulge in our last idea by creating some of the best technicolor treats out there; rainbow inspired baked goods!
Bake and Share Your Love for Equality
We would be honored to take a bite of this sweet treat! Get the recipe and share your pride. We can't think of a better way to bring a smile to someone's face when celebrating our equality!
As we move forward with the weight of this recent tragedy on our shoulders, we ask that you keep your faith and remain positive. Measures are being taken and people are becoming educated. We just need to keep believing and devour the details of celebrating equality for all as we go! Spread the word people; love is all you need!
