What to do in Boston this weekend (Nov 28 - 30)

If you have an event, a new attraction, a hotel, or a restaurant opening you’d like me to cover, please reach out!

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Spagnuolo’s temporary closed. After bricks fell from the fourth floor of the Hanover Street building, the North End eatery was temporarily closed while officials assessed for safety. (WCVB)

Boston restaurant named Top 100. Based on OpenTable reviews, the Top 100 list included Back Bay’s Krasi. Part wine, part taverna, Krasi has an extensive wine list and menu that changes daily, depending on what the small network of Maine farmers they source their ingredients from has available. (Boston.com)

Korean street food has come to Jamaica Plain. A brand new Korean eatery, Gangnam Spice, has opened at 225 Centre St in Jamaica Plain (02119). What started as a food truck has transformed into a fully-formed brick-and-mortar, with a menu full of street snacks and fan favorites like Korean fried chicken. (Boston Restaurant Talk)

Where are Boston’s best cookies? Boston.com did the hard work.

Reminder: Boston continues to fight food insecurity. Bostonians are still working hard to ensure their neighbors have food on their table this holiday season. Whether you’re looking to donate, volunteer, or need help, here are some great food resources for the Greater Boston Area:

Thanksgiving cocktail hour at home: We tried the Caribou, a French Canadian cocktail, during our September trip through Quebec. Great hot or cold, the perfect cozy weather cocktail. Pro tip: Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Check out this curated guide to the best travel deals on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Travel Tuesday.

Worst holiday travel traffic ever. A record number of Americans are traveling for Thanksgiving this year. 72 million people are planning to hit the road between November 25 and December 1, with an additional 10 million taking to the skies. Tuesday was the busiest travel day for those leaving town, while Sunday is expected to be the busiest for those returning. (Axios Boston)

Transportation Secretary Duffy wants to make flying stylish again. In a PSA, Secretary Duffy is urging fellow Americans to act — and dress — with more civility while flying. With the rise of disruptive passengers, officials are trying to curb the bad behavior. (NBC Boston)

Windiest November on record. Chicago might be known as the Windy City, but Bostonians know the wind here is no joke. The average wind speed for November 2025 has been 37 mph, up 6 mph from last year’s record-breaking speeds. (Boston 25)

Black Friday will be quieter this year. 45% of shoppers have already started their holiday shopping, up from 28% a year ago, with 25% saying they’ll be done by Thanksgiving. Instead of impulse-buying doorbuster deals, many shoppers take advantage of year-round deals. (Boston Globe)

Yes, the buses are getting slower. Congestion is worse on the roads, creating a domino effect that slows and bunches buses according to TransitMatters. Speeds in 2024 dropped 5% from 2023, with Route 1, 23, 28, and Silver Line 4 and 5 taking the crown for the slowest routes and the routes that bunch the most. (Axios Boston)

What I’m listening to this week:

What I’m reading this week:

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A curated rundown of unique events happening this weekend in and around Boston that I’m either attending or wishing I were. If you’re looking for weekly happenings, like wine tastings and yoga classes, scroll to the next section.

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Boston Common Frog Pond Ice Skating is now open. Admission price is based on height: $12 for 58 inches and over, while anyone 58 inches and under is free. Locker rentals and skate rentals are also available.

Get into the spirit of the season at Miracle at Kimpton Marlow Hotel (25 Edwin H. Land Blvd, Cambridge, MA 02141) holiday pop-up bar from Thursday, Nov 20, through Sunday, Dec 28. There’s a whole new lineup of seasonal cocktails, served in a limited-edition Santa’s Head, SanTaRex, or Christmas Unicorn.

The Boston Ballet is celebrating the opening weekend of The Nutcracker, performed at Citizens Opera House (539 Washington St, Boston, MA 02111), from Friday, November 28, through Sunday, December 28. Tickets range from $50 to $315.

Whether you’re shopping for a tree or want to soak up seasonal vibes, don’t miss visiting the Christmas Tree Farm at Assembly Row (301 Assembly Row, Somerville, MA 02145) now through Christmas Eve. Shop freshly cut trees, handcrafted wreaths, and more holiday decor to keep the festive vibes flowing all season long.

Every Saturday and Sunday from November 29 through Christmas, enjoy Crafts, Cocoa, & Cheer on the lawn at Assembly Row (355 Artisan Way, Somerville, MA 02145). From 1 to 3 pm, enjoy free hot cocoa, live music, holiday treats, and holiday-themed crafts while supplies last.

See award-winning Spanish cellist Pablo Ferrández perform Dvořák’s Cello Concerto and Symphony No. 8 with the Boston Symphony Orchestra on Friday, November 28, and Saturday, November 29, at Symphony Hall (301 Mass Ave, Boston, MA). Tickets range from $53.99 to $188.99.

If you’re wondering where to shop local in Boston, don’t miss the Small Business Weekend Holiday Sale from Friday, November 29, through Monday, December 1, at The Brighton Emporium (406 Western Ave, Boston, MA 02135). Many vendors are offering discounts to kick off the holiday shopping season, including All the Rage Vintage, Vintage Wish List, and The Wire Witch. This is a free event with food, drink, and gifts available for purchase.

Keep the spirit of Thanksgiving going by seeing the Wampanoag Singers and Dancers perform at JFK Presidential Library and Museum (Columbia Point, Dorchester, MA 02125). You’ll learn Wampanoag history and about their modern culture during this interactive performance. This is a free event.

Walk off the turkey hangover with a free guided Gratitude After Gravy Hike through Bell Isle March Reservation (1399 Bennington St, East Boston, MA), one of Boston’s last remaining salt marshes. The hike is happening on Friday, November 28, from 10 am to 11:15 am.

It’s Small Business Saturday! Get out, enjoy the late autumn sunshine, and shop at some great local gift shops and boutiques. For a complete rundown of local shops organized by neighborhoods, visit savor + roam’s holiday gift guide. If you’re shopping specifically for books, check out s + r’s unofficial book trail guide.

Kick off the holiday season with Small Business Saturday @ Bow Market on Saturday, November 29, from 11 am to 7 pm, at Bow Market (1 Bow Market Way, Somerville, MA). In addition to Bow Market’s resident vendors, there will be other local artists and makers popping up throughout the market, including Lux & Knox Jewelry, Pet Wants Cambridge, Sarah Wormann Art, and Tiny Ink Boston. Collect stamps as you visit shops, and for each Bingo you get, you’ll be entered to win a grand prize. The first 40 people through the doors will receive a Bow Market tote with goodies from Bow Market businesses and Tiny Turns Paperie. This is a free event. Please RSVP.

Shopping for the book lover in your life? Don’t miss Small Business Saturday at All She Wrote Books (75 Washington St, Somerville, MA 02143) on Saturday, November 29, from 11 am to 7 pm. Not only will they have newly discounted books for $1-$3, but if you spend $20 or more, you’ll receive a free Activist Poster. Spend $40 or more and choose from their curated ARC (Advanced Reading Copy) bundle.

Shop a curated selection of local small businesses at the Boston Flower Co. X Gangers Buy Flowers Pop Up on Saturday, November 29, from 12 to 4 pm at Greenbridge at 468 River St, Boston, MA 02126. There will be a $25 bud vase flower bar, plus great fashion and good vibes.

Celebrate The Charles Hotel’s 40th Tree Lighting at Charles Hotel Lower Courtyard (1 Bennett St, Cambridge, MA 02138) on Saturday, November 29, from 4 to 7 pm. There will be a Toys for Tots collection of new, unopened toys, plus photo opportunities with Santa, a life-sized gingerbread house, a Holiday Book Market with Lovestruck Books and The COOP, festive drinks and snacks, and more. This is a free, family-friendly event with food and drink available for purchase.

Seaport is celebrating the 5th Annual Holiday Ship Lighting at Martin’s Park (64 Sleeper St, Boston, MA 02210) on Saturday, November 29, from 4 to 6 pm. Entertainment will be provided by a cappella group Ball in the House, appearances by Betty the Yeti and Santa, and more. This is a free event with food and drink available for purchase.

Ring in the holiday season with a Roslindale Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration: Pub Carol Sing Along, & Holiday Bingo at Adam's Park and The Substation (4225 and 4228 Washington St, Boston, MA 02131) on Saturday, November 29, from 3 to 11 pm.

Get in the spirit of the season with a screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas at Trident Booksellers & Cafe (338 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02115) on Saturday, November 29, from 7 to 9 pm. This is a free event with food and drink available for purchase from the cafe.

New recurring: Every Saturday from November 29 through December 20, there will be a Holiday Drone Show on Boston Common (139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111) from 6 to 8 pm.

Find botanical treasures from herbalists, artists, and more at the Wintergreen Herbal Market on Saturday, November 29, from 10 am to 4 pm at Arts at the Armory (191 Highland Ave, Somerville, 02143). Sip tea while you shop BIPOC art, seasonal goods, teas and tinctures, and more. There will also be a full schedule of free educational talks and demonstrations. This is a free event. Food and drink will be available for purchase.

Wild Child (30 Bow St, Somerville, MA) is hosting a special Small Business Saturday Wine Tasting with Pacina Vino on Saturday, November 29, from 5 - 7 pm.

Help Papercuts Bookshop (60 South St, Boston, MA 02130) celebrate its 11th Anniversary on Saturday, November 29, from 11 am to 7 pm. Come for the cake and special deals, stay for the cozy-bookstore-during-the-holidays vibes. This is a free event.

Get in shape for soup season with a Ramen Masterclass at PAGU (310 Mass Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139). Fresh off their MICHELIN Bib Gourmand award, the PAGU team will teach you the secrets to making the perfect broths and layering flavors, like seafood, chicken, pork, kombu, and a “can’t believe it’s vegan” broth. Classes are $119 and include all materials.

Help support the Somerville Community Fridge at the Community Fridge Donation Drop-Off at Bow Market (1 Bow Market Way, Somerville, MA 02143) on Sunday, November 30. Drop off non-perishables at Rebel Rebel (2 pm - 11:30 pm) and Buenas (11 am - 6 pm). Plus, you can donate perishable food at Nook Cocktail Bar.

Shop small on Sunday, November 30, at the Boston Women’s Holiday Market from 11 am to 4 pm at Arts at the Armory (191 Highland Ave, Somerville, MA 02143). With over 30 local vendors, you’ll have a chance to find something for everyone on your gift list.

Ground yourself before a new week begins with a Reiki Sound Bath on Sunday, November 30, from 3 to 4 pm at Blissful Monkey Yoga Studio (663 Centre St, Boston, MA 02130). Tickets are $30. Mats, bolsters, blankets, and eye masks will be provided.

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As a reminder, the Commuter Rail has $10 weekend passes, which give the ticket holder unlimited travel on Saturday and Sunday. The pass is activated during your first trip on Saturday and remains active until Sunday night.

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Whether you’re shopping for a tree or want to soak up seasonal vibes, don’t miss visiting the Christmas Tree Farm at Assembly Row (301 Assembly Row, Somerville, MA 02145) now through Christmas Eve. Shop freshly cut trees, handcrafted wreaths, and more holiday decor to keep the festive vibes flowing all season long.

Shop the legendary Haymarket, America’s oldest open-air market, every Friday and Saturday from 6 am to 7 pm. Vendors offer fresh, affordable produce, dairy products, meat, and seafood. Just steps from Boston Public Market and MBTA’s Haymarket Station.

Jamaica Plain holds its weekly Farmers Market every Saturday from 12 pm to 3 pm year-round in the Bank of America parking lot (677 Centre St, Jamaica Plain, 02130).

Every Saturday from November 1, 2025, through April 11, 2026, you can shop for local and healthy foods at the Somerville Winter Farmers Market at Arts at the Armory (191 Highland Ave, Somerville, MA 02143). The market is held weekly from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm except for 11/29/25 and 12/27/25.

Boston’s biggest winter market, Snowport (100 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA), returns for its 7th season beginning Friday, November 7, through December 28. The market will be open seven days a week, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, with extended hours in December.

Get in the holiday spirit at the top of the Prudential Center (800 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02199) at View Boston’s Stratus Winter Oasis. Indulge in a festive cocktail or two while surrounded by festive décor and take in unforgettable views of the city. Note: A ticket to View Boston does not guarantee immediate entry to Stratus.

Need to warm up after a visit to Snowport? Head to Deck 12 (Yotel Boston, 65 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA 02110) where their winter pop-up, Apres, returns from Friday, November 14, through Tuesday, March 3. Sit fireside and thaw out with a bowl (or flight) of chili or a seasonal cocktail while the Boston skyline glitters around you. Book your reservation now.

The Holly Jolly Bar returns to Harpoon Brewery (306 Northern Ave, Boston, MA) from Thursday, November 13, through Sunday, December 28. The halls are decked from floor to ceiling, and the menus are filled with seasonal sips and bites that will fill you with festive cheer. Tickets are $19.90 and include a 90-minute reservation and one welcome cocktail (non-alcoholic options available).

Some places in Boston haven’t forgotten about Thanksgiving. Sam Adams Boston Brewery (30 Germania St, Boston, MA 02130) is celebrating Friendsgiving at Sam from Friday, November 14, through Sunday, November 30. Book a heated outdoor igloo in the Beer Garden and enjoy a variety of food packages, from a Pretzel Pack to a Sharing is Caring Sampler, featuring warm Bavarian pretzels, chicken tenders, and cheesy quesadillas. Reservations start at $28.45 (before food and drink).

Get into the spirit of the season at Miracle at Kimpton Marlow Hotel (25 Edwin H. Land Blvd, Cambridge, MA 02141) holiday pop-up bar from Thursday, Nov 20, through Sunday, Dec 28. There’s a whole new lineup of seasonal cocktails, served in a limited-edition Santa’s Head, SanTaRex, or Christmas Unicorn.

The Boston Ballet is celebrating the opening weekend of The Nutcracker, performed at Citizens Opera House (539 Washington St, Boston, MA 02111), from Friday, November 28, through Sunday, December 28. Tickets range from $50 to $315.

Boston Common Frog Pond Ice Skating is now open. Admission price is based on height: $12 for 58 inches and over, while anyone 58 inches and under is free. Locker rentals and skate rentals are also available.

You can find a full rundown of recurring walking tours, food tours, bus tours, and trolley tours of Boston in my Beginner’s Guide to Boston.

Start your weekend with a dose of wellness at The Hidden Art Gallery (25 Myrtle Street) in Beacon Hill, which hosts weekly Explore Meditation with Watercolor classes. Held every Friday from 3 pm - 6 pm, learn the basics of meditation while intuitively creating with watercolor. Classes are $55.

Ease into the weekend with a Friday Yoga Flow for all levels at Boston Public Library Honan-Allston Branch (300 N Harvard St, Allston, MA 02134) every Friday through September 19 from 3 to 4 pm. This event is free, but registration is required as each class is customized to participants’ preferences. Yoga mats, blocks, and straps will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Reconnect with your ability to digest and rest during a Sound Bath Meditation with Ramon of Ib and Flow (247 Walnut St, Brookline, 02445). Sessions ($50) are held every Sunday.

Wind down from the weekend and prepare for the week ahead with a Grounding Meditation session every Sunday from 5 - 6 pm at Blissful Monkey Yoga Studio (663 Centre Street, Boston, 02130) in Jamaica Plain. Led by Licensed Mental Health Counselor Brennan Mallonnee, you will be guided through techniques on how to calm stress responses and practice trauma-informed grounding techniques for anxiety. Tickets are $20. Yoga mats, cushions, and blankets are available, but you can bring your own.

If you’re trying to bring balance into your life this year, start your Sunday brunch with a gentle yoga flow with Brewery Yoga at Lamplighter CX. The class is held every Sunday from 12:30 - 1:30 pm at Lamplighter Brewing Co.’s CX location (110 North First Street, Cambridge, 02141) in their upstairs taproom. Tickets are $25 and include a beer token or a complimentary non-alcoholic drink.

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to navigate Boston by bicycle but have been too intimidated to start, join a Weekend In-And-Back Guided Ride with A Better City TMA. On Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 1 pm this spring and summer, join a free, three-hour bicycle ride from one of the many bike paths outside the city (meeting location disclosed upon sign up) and traverse the Urban Loop through downtown before returning to the start location.

Whether you already love screenprinting or are completely new to this printing method, DARK MODE hosts DIY Screenprinting workshops at their storefront in Bow Market (1 Bow Market Way, #24) in Somerville on Friday (7 pm) and Saturday (6 pm and 7 pm) nights. Tickets are $45, including t-shirts.

DARK MODE also hosts Candle Making and Intention Setting Workshops every Thursday at 7 pm in their storefront at Bow Market in Somerville. Tickets are $50.

Spend your Friday learning to make classic Italian cuisine with Self Up Cooking Classes (19 Kingston St) in Downtown Crossing from 6 pm - 9 pm. Every week, they host an Italian Dinner with Tiramisu Finale cooking class and dinner experience, where you can learn how to make a three-course meal, including a luscious tiramisu for dessert. Tickets are $100 and include all ingredients.

Natural wine lovers, don’t miss the free wine tastings at Petrova Chocolates (61 Salem Street, Boston, MA) in the North End every Friday (3 - 7 pm) and Saturday (12 - 3). Each week, they open bottles of Eastern European natural wines from countries like Georgia, Bulgaria, and Greece. These tastings are free and require no tickets or reservations.

Love Child hosts free wine tastings every Friday from 5 pm to 7 pm and Saturday from 12 pm to 3 pm at their South Boston location (364 West Broadway, Boston, MA). These tastings are free and require no reservations.

Coffee lovers, this one is for you. Every Friday at 10 am, Counter Culture Coffee (374 Somerville Ave) in Somerville opens their Training Center for free coffee tastings. Anyone can learn and connect over perfectly brewed, high-quality, sustainable coffee.

Come to DeLuca’s Market Wine Cellar (11 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114) in Beacon Hill for a free wine tasting every Friday from 4 - 7 pm. Every week, resident wine expert Donovan handpicks a mix of familiar favorites and bottles from up-and-coming vineyards or hard-to-find vintages to share among participants. No ticket is required.

On Saturdays, Boston Harbor Distillery (12R Ericsson St, Boston, 02122) leads VIP tours ($50) and barrel-side tastings of their spirits ($20).