A goal for Maytime: Get outside and enjoy

At last, May is here and we Kids Menu people are itching to get outdoors to enjoy our neighborhood. From neighborhood beautification to organized outdoor activities, we’ve got the details here.

(Note: Mothers’ Day is May 12! Don’t forget reservations for Mom’s lunch or dinner at any one of our wonderful neighborhood restaurants.)

If the Mothers Day Walk for Peace isn’t on your calendar, it should be. This annual event has cemented its place in the heart of Dorchester as we band together to speak out against gun violence. A peaceful march organized by the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute, this is a wonderful way to celebrate moms and help everyone to work toward a more peaceful Dorchester.

Thurs., May 2, at 6 p.m. – The Teen Substance Use workshop at the Codman Square Health Center hosts a session on Teen Substance Use risks, trends, and resources in the community from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Black Box Theatre at 14 Epping St., Dorchester. Food and refreshments from Juice and Jazz Cafe. Register at teensubstances.eventbrite.com.

Sat., May 4, 3 p.m. – Build Spring Fairy houses in the Adams Street Library Reading Garden using natural materials. Create clothespin fairies to take home. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

Also that day: JFK Library, at 10:30 a.m. – Benkadi Drum and Dance group returns to perform new dances showcasing traditional West African rhythms and movements. With vivid costumes, interpretive dance, and audience participation, folktales come to life before your eyes. Register here: jfklibrary.org/events-and-awards/celebrate/05-04-benkadi-drum-and-dance.

Sun., May 5 – The 2019 Polish Fest Boston, based in the Polish American Citizens Club of South Boston on Boston Street, is a celebration of the rich cultural traditions and contributions of Boston’s Polish-American community. Guests will enjoy delicious food, lively music, enriching culture, and the warm hospitality of our Polish-American community and its neighbors. This year’s event will raise money for the Polish American Heritage and Community Foundation, a 501c3 charity, whose mission is to support the Polish and Polish-American community through funding of scholarships and through cultural, education, and community initiatives projects and events. Our goal this year is to raise $10,000!

Tues., May 7, 9:30 a.m. – A stop on Mayor Walsh’s 2019 Coffee Hour Series at Martin Playground. The Neighborhood Coffee Hours give residents the opportunity to speak directly with His Honor and staff from City departments about open space and other needs in their neighborhoods. Through discussions and a suggestion box at each site, residents have the chance to get involved on how the City of Boston can improve upon local parks, public areas, and city services.It’s a feature of the Coffee Hour Series that Mayor Walsh looks forward to.

Sat., May 18, 11 a.m. – The annual Franklin Park Kite & Bike Festival will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Playstead at 25 Pierpont Rd. in Franklin Park. The spring celebration will include kite-flying, games, and activities led by Playworks and Appalachian Mountain Club’s Outdoors RX, along with face-painting, music and performances. A Bike with Kids Group Ride, a first annual ride starting in Dudley Square and ending at the Kite & Bike Festival, is also planned. To register, visit roxburyway.com. The rain date is Sun., May 19, from 1-5. Sponsors are needed. For further information, please visit franklinparkcoalition.org/kitefest. Vendors and food trucks are welcome to apply for a spot. Contact janna@franklinparkcoalition.org for more information.

Thurs., May 23, at 6 p.m. – American Experience series, “Chasing the Moon.” The Kennedy Library and WGBH partner for an exclusive preview and discussion of the production. Executive producer Mark Samels, director Robert Stone, and panelists will discuss the series and the Space Race, from the early years to the lunar landing and its legacy. Free and open to the public. Reservations are strongly recommended, and may be made online, or by calling 617-514-1643. See jfklibrary.org/events-and-awards/forums/05-23-American-Experience


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