An entire event devoted to food? Sign me up! If the prospect of food festivals makes you drool too, you’ll want to check out the eclectic and scrumptious annual foodie events held in Boston each year. From Fluff to bacon, there’s something that appeals to every palate. Update your calendar!
The country’s largest local and sustainable food fest is held right here. The Boston Local Food Festival takes over the Rose Kennedy Greenway for one day each year, converting the space into a haven for lovers of local, sustainable food. From food trucks to DIY demos, there’s plenty of scrumptious fare at your fingertips. The festival highlights the fantastic food producers that surround us in Massachusetts, during this free, zero waste event. Block out September 17, 2017 on your calendars. The festival runs from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Just the name of this festival sounds like fun and, if you were ever tempted to devote a day to marshmallow crème, this is the year to do it! The event, which is held on September 23, 2017 in Union Square, marks the one hundred year anniversary of Fluff’s invention in Somerville. The "What the Fluff" Festival has a Department of Shenanigans, so you know you’re in for a good time. Expect Fluff-inspired games, live music, and a cooking contest. Who’s craving a Fluffernutter?
The Phantom Gourmet Food Festival combines your favorite foods with your favorite place – it’s located next to Fenway Park! Work your way through 100 or so diverse offerings such as meatballs, cheese steak dumplings, and lobster sliders. Although the dress code is optional, you’ll probably be surrounded by a horde of purple-clad foodies! This festival is scheduled for September 23, 2017 and runs from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Tickets required.
Any festival featuring bacon is bound to be a winner, and adding bourbon to the mix is just one more reason to love this fest. The Bourbon and Bacon Fest is a ticketed event for those over 21 years of age. Chow down on bacon-themed food produced by local restaurants and sample bourbon while enjoying live music.
Break out your elasticated pants; once you pay for a ticket to this festival, it’s an all-you-can-eat affair. Sample offerings from 30 local restaurants, which serve up pizza, seafood, and more. In addition to tasting good, this event will make you feel good too because it raises money for affordable housing. The Taste of South Boston took place in April last year – the dates for 2018 have yet to be confirmed.
Celebrate the intense flavors of Caribbean food at this festival showcasing Jamaican jerk-spiced dishes. Festival highlights include a jerk cook-off, a seafood throwdown, and rum tastings. Browse for things like jewelry and rum cake, all while listening to soca, steel drums, and reggae. Boston JerkFest features plenty of fun for the whole family.
Some of your favorite Cambridge eateries – more than 100 of them, to be precise – come together at the Taste of Cambridge. From comfort food to Korean delicacies, there’s so much variety that your taste buds won’t get bored. This ticketed event is a fundraiser that benefits multiple charities.
Watch cooking demos, cheer on an oyster shucking competition, and stuff yourself silly on lobster rolls, clams, and fish ‘n’ chips. These are just some of the events that happen on Boston Fish Pier – the oldest working fish pier in the nation. You’ve only just missed this year’s Boston Seafood Festival so keep an eye on the website for the dates for 2018!
While Saint Anthony’s Feast is a religious festival, National Geographic has dubbed it the "Feast of Feasts." Food is served up from nearly 100 pushcarts, selling authentic Italian fare: pasta, pizza, calamari, gelato, cannoli… This North End celebration centers around a procession and open air Mass, but it also features cooking demonstrations, a culinary pavilion, and more comfort food than you can imagine. It will take place between August 23 and August 26, 2018.
Have you been to any of these festivals? What's your favorite foodie-themed event in or around Boston? Let us know on the Only In Boston Facebook page, or in the comments, below.
You may also be interested in these Boston food trucks that are definitely worth chasing!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
While food is the core of a memorable meal, atmosphere plays a significant part in the overall experience. The styles of these restaurants - not ranked in any order - vary widely, however, they all offer divine food prepared in a beautiful venue. Keep these 10 eateries in mind next time you're looking for a meal that will stand out in your memory long after you leave:
For creative cocktails, steamed buns, and thoughtfully plated sushi in an unforgettable setting, head to Red Lantern. As the name indicates, a stunning array of red lanterns dangle from the ceiling, casting a dim yet warm light throughout the restaurant. This creates a romantic ambiance that’s ideal for date night. Red Lantern is located at 39 Stanhope Street in Boston.
This snug, intimate restaurant evokes the atmosphere of Italy without feeling clichéd. When it comes to appetizers - such as goat cheese spring rolls and fried calamari - Panza knocks it out of the park. The pasta is as fresh and delicious as you’d expect from a North End eatery. You’ll find Panza at 326 Hanover Street in Boston.
While the decor at Top of the Hub is perfectly pleasing, your awareness of the interior fades as soon as you catch sight of the panoramic views over Boston. The vistas are so captivating that it’s hard to tear your eyes away for long enough to read the menu! Top of the Hub is on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower, located at 800 Boylston Street in Boston.
Wrought iron details, city views, and superb French and Italian fare combine to make Marliave a historic dining destination you won’t want to miss. It is located at 10 Bosworth Street in Boston.
Since meatballs are comfort food, you don’t usually associate them with beauty. However, the interior of this restaurant may change your mind. Rich hues and charming details unite to create a relaxed and quaint dining space. Choose your balls (beef, Korean pork, veggie, chicken, lamb, gluten-free beef), select a sauce, then add a side. You can also get Swedish meatballs and sometimes even turducken at this restaurant, which is located at 429 W Broadway in Boston.
If your design tastes tilt toward clean-lined spaces, you’ll appreciate the subdued elegance of Deuxave. Wine lovers also won’t be able to help but ogle the library of wine bottles decorating this moody space, and once you’ve paired your vino with the locally sourced, modern French cuisine served here, you’ll be convinced that life – and Deuxave - is beautiful. This restaurant is located at 371 Commonwealth Avenue in Boston.
If you’re not craving a cheesesteak dumpling or a kimchi burger, it’s probably because you didn’t realize they were on the menu at this inviting Korean restaurant! With its slick interior and vivid artwork, Koy engages all of your senses. You’ll find it at 16 North Street in Boston.
Parisian charm abounds in Aquitaine, a petite French bistro with an especially appealing bar area. Come for the eggs dishes and glazed cinnamon rolls during brunch or come for dinner and enjoy the steak or duck. This restaurant is located at 569 Tremont Street in Boston.
It’s the fetching city views you can enjoy from Mamma Maria that really make this Italian restaurant visually appealing. Inside are five separate dining areas, each with its own flair, but your eyes will undoubtedly be drawn to the windows. Depending on your table, you may be treated to views of skyscrapers, green copper architectural details, or North End neighborhood scenes. Mamma Maria is located at 3 North Square in Boston.
For craft cocktails and modern Italian fare in a delightfully Art Deco setting, dine at Teatro. With its open kitchen and dramatic décor, there’s plenty to admire in this unique space. Head to 177 Tremont Street in Boston to experience this restaurant firsthand.
Have you visited any of these establishments? Which other pretty places would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments.
