September Events: What to Do This Month in Boston

September is here and fall is just around the corner! And just because summer is coming to an end, doesn't mean the events in the Boston Metro Area will be too. In fact, the month of September will host many local festivals and celebrations in the city, from a carnival in Cambridge to a music festival in Jamaica Plain to the South Boston Street Festival. 

The following events are all FREE and just a few of many ways to welcome in the new season in Boston:

Jamaica Plain Music Festival
Saturday, September 6, 2014; 12 PM to 7 PM
Pinebank Field at Perkins St and Jamaica Way
Jamaica Plain

The fourth annual Jamaica Plain Music Festival kicks off this Saturday with 21 bands on two stages. What's more, this is a truly local event as at least one member of each band has to have lived or worked in Jamaica Plain. Attendees can expect great music, food trucks, local vendors and businesses, and even activities for the kids.

Cambridge Carnival
Sunday, September 7, 2014; 12 PM to 7 PM
Parade will end on Main St. between Vassar and Ames
Cambridge

This local event will go on rain or shine to celebrate its 22nd year. The Cambridge Carnival was originally started to celebrate African traditions and this year will feature family-friendly activities like face painting, story telling, arts and crafts and a special costume parade.

South Boston Street Festival
Saturday, September 13, 2014; 11 AM to 5 PM
East Broadway between I and L Streets
South Boston

Another great music festival including performers from the local Woods School of Irish Step Dance in South Boston. Not only is this event free, but the Southie Shuttle will be giving away free rides to and from the festival. 

Boston Local Food Festival
Sunday, September 14, 2014; 11 AM to 5 PM
Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway
Boston

This annual free outdoor festival showcases local restaurants, food trucks, farmers and organizations specializing in healthy food from New England. There will be food samples, cooking demos, and tips on eating locally. The Boston Local Food Festival is geared toward healthy lifestyles and will be a zero-waste event, recycling and reusing 90 percent of their waste.

Contact me today for more recommendations in the Boston Metro Area and to chat about the local real estate market!

Ken Snyder

Keller Williams Realty Boston-Metro

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What to Do in Boston: Summer Beach Trips

There is still plenty of summer left to enjoy in Boston and around the city, you'll find numerous chances to spend the day on the beach or at least, on the water. As your Boston real estate expert, I'm here to share everything from homebuyer tips and home seller advice to recommendations for exploring this great community. 

Summer is the perfect season to take in all that Boston has to offer, so be sure to mark a staycation or day trip to the beach on your to-do list. You can start with these Boston waterfront locales:

Carson Beach
Carson Beach has been called the best beach scene in Boston, with tons of sand to relax upon and great city views to soak up. Aside from the beach, Carson Beach also boasts bocce courts and chess tables to pass the time. Other perks include free parking, a lifeguard on duty, shady spots for resting, public restrooms, and access to the MBTA.

Castle Island/Pleasure Bay
One of the most popular destinations for Boston residents, Castle Island has opportunities for both recreation and historical learning. The island is home to Fort Independence, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and Pleasure Bay is one of the city's treasured swimming and picturesque beach destinations. Boston residents can enjoy the park around the fort for a summer picnic or take a dip in the calm, enclosed lagoon of Pleasure Bay.

Spectacle Island
With five miles of walking trails and two sandy beaches, Spectacle Island is a must-visit this summer. The island is part of the Boston Harbor Islands and also offers a vast array of activities for Boston families, no matter the ages. This island is just a short ferry ride away (from Long Wharf) and also easily accessible via public transportation. The pebble beaches, boat docks and visitor-friendly concessions make Spectacle Island the perfect beach trip for Bostonians. 

Charles River Esplanade
Boston residents don't have to travel far to enjoy this idyllic summer locale. The Charles River Esplanade features beautiful views of the city and on July 26, will host a community swim. 3 local organizations will cohost the second annual Charles River Community Swim (one was also held on July 12) and allow people to swim off the dock near the Hatch Shell (30 people at a time, for 30 minutes at a time). 

Ready to make Boston your permanent home or sell your current property and move up to a new space? Contact me today!

Ken Snyder

Keller Williams Realty Boston-Metro

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Celebrate the 4th of July in Boston

The Fourth of July is almost here and many Boston area residents are planning their activities for the big day. Whether or not you decide to venture into the city to attend one of the many holiday events this year, Boston is a great place to spend Independence Day! From fireworks displays to live music and celebrations on the harbor, here's what is happening around the city on July 4 this year:

Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
July 3-4, 2014
The Hatch Shell
Boston, MA

This highly-anticipated annual event will kick off with the national anthem and flyover at 7:30 PM on July 4 before commencing its firework show over the Charles River. One of the best fireworks displays in the country (over 10,000!), the Boston Pops Spectacular also includes entertainment with this year's lineup boasting the Beach Boys, Megan Hilty, the Phantom of the Opera, and the Boston Children's Chorus. 

Boston Harborfest
July 2-6, 2014
Boston, MA

Boston Harborfest is a well-known celebration of the colonial heritage in Boston, including reenactments, concerts, historical tours, and more. Harborfest is now in its 33rd year and has grown to span over 4 days as the largest patriotic celebration in the country. There will be over 200 activities during the festival, so don't miss it!

Fireworks Cruise on the Boston Harbor
July 3, 2014; 7 PM
Odyssey Cruises
Boston, MA

What a great way to start off the Fourth of July weekend in Boston. Join Odyssey Cruises for a sail around Boston Harbor in addition to dinner and a fireworks display.

Fireworks Sail and Constitution
July 4, 2014; 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM
Moakley Federal Courthouse Dock
Boston, MA

This lunch and sail takes place alongside the USS Constitution as it pulls into Boston Harbor to Castle Island's Fort Independence for a 21-gun salute. In addition, a Fireworks Sail will also be offered for those wishing to watch fireworks from the deck of the Roseway as it pulls in Charlestown. Great for getting out of the city and watching fireworks from aboard a landmark boat!

Uncharted July 4th Fireworks Shindig
July 4, 2014; 7 PM
Coalition Space Boston
Boston, MA

Boston Uncharted is co-hosting this holiday event with Coalition Boston at their new space which has an incredible 19th story view of Boston and the Charles River! A great opportunity to watch a fireworks display from 19 stories up!

Boston is truly a remarkable city to spend Independence Day with unparalleled events for guests and residents alike. Watching the city come together to celebrate the stars and stripes is not something to miss! If you are considering a move to another home in Boston or are ready to move into the Boston Metro, I would be happy to hear from you!

Ken Snyder

Keller Williams Realty Boston-Metro

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Summer Events to Visit in Greater Boston Area

Summer is a great time to get out and try new things, visit new areas of the city, visit new events, explore Greater Boston. Whether you've just moved to the area or are planning to relocate to Boston this year, events are one of many ways to get involved in your community. Below are a few events happening this weekend to mark on your calendars:

Fork in the Road Food Truck Festival
Saturday, June 14, 2014; 12 PM to 10 PM
Blue Hills Bank Pavilion
Boston, MA

Boston has a long legacy of fine food and this is another opportunity to experience and enjoy the local fare. This first-ever Fork in the Road Food Truck Festival will bring together Boston's most popular food trucks and Harpoon Brewery favorites, as well as feature live music.

Legends of Boston Comedy
Saturday, June 14, 2014; 8 PM
Citi Performing Arts Center, Wang Theatre
Boston, MA

For one night only, this comedy event will include Boston comedy stars like Lenny Clarke, Don Gavin, "The Undisputed King of Boston Comedy," "The Funniest Man You've Never Heard Of," Kenny Rogerson and Tony V. These men were a part of the golden age of Boston comedy and are coming together for one more night of laughs.

Boston Festival of Bands
Saturday, June 14, 2014; 11 AM to 6 PM
The Great Hall, Faneuil Hall
Boston, MA

Come out and enjoy the 26th annual Boston Festival of Bands this weekend at Faneuil Hall, presented by the Metropolitan Wind Symphony. The event will be held at 1 Faneuil Hall Square, next to Quincy Market and bands will play varying genres from Broadway tunes to classic music. Something for everyone here, with great musical variety!

Father's Day on the Spirit of Boston
Sunday, June 15, 2014; 11 AM
Entertainment Cruises
Boston, MA

Treat Dad this weekend to a family day aboard the Spirit of Boston and take a lunch cruise around the Boston Harbor. This special Father's Day cruise will include a festive lunch, entertainment, and historic view of the harbor.

Ken Snyder

Keller Williams Realty Boston-Metro

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Celebrate Valentine's Day in Boston

Love is in the air in Boston! The sweetest holiday of the year is coming up next Friday, February 14^th. Whether you’re single or attached, Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show your loved ones how much you care. If you recently decided to buy a home in Boston, you might be stumped as to how you can celebrate. Luckily, I’ve come up with a few ideas that will help make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable. You may even get to explore a side of town you’ve never seen before! Without further adieu, here are my suggestions for celebrating Valentine’s Day in Boston.

Take a cruise around the harbor 

The Spirit of Boston will host a special Valentine’s Day cruise on February 14^th. Dinner, dancing, and a champagne toast will make this a romantic way to celebrate Valentine’s Day at sea.

“In Love with Wine and Chocolate” class and dinner

Take your favorite chocolate lover to Boston Wine School’s “In Love with Wine and Chocolate” event. Taste European and South American chocolates, sip delicious wine, and dine on Penne Fedora, Pollo Cristina and Spinach Florentine.

Dining in the Dark at Hampshire House 

Enjoy a four-course meal in one of Beacon Hill’s most fabulous mansions – in complete darkness! A sensory adventure like no other, this Valentine’s Day is sure to be unforgettable in the best possible way at Dining in the Dark.

Catch a theatrical or musical performance

There’s no shortage of ways to be dazzled and entertained in Boston this Valentine’s Day. Watch West Side Story at Boston Symphony Hall, Blue Man Group at Charles Playhouse, or take the whole family to see Disney on Ice at TD Garden. Get your tickets today!

Valentine’s Day gives us a great excuse to plan a special night on the town. Whether you choose to dine in complete darkness or take a cruise around the harbor, your first Valentine’s Day in Boston is sure to be unforgettable. Do you have anything special scheduled for next Friday night? If so, feel free to share your plans on the KenSnyderHomes Facebook page. While you’re there, take a look at some of the articles I’ve posted recently. Anyone who has plans to buy or sell a home in Boston this year is sure to find helpful tips and information.

If you haven’t yet ventured into the Boston real estate market and are thinking about taking the leap this spring, please get in touch with me. Though it’s only the beginning of February, spring will be here before we know it. And, along with the transition of the seasons will come a surge of activity in the Boston real estate market. As your Boston real estate agent, I’d be honored to guide you through the home buying or home selling process from start to finish. I look forward to working with you!

Ken Snyder
Keller Williams Realty Boston-Metro
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Boston's Best: Holiday Events

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

The holiday season is officially underway, and Boston sure knows how to celebrate. As you finish up your Christmas shopping and start making plans for New Year’s Eve, make it a point to check out all of the fun festivities going on around town. Especially if you recently decided to buy a home in Boston! From the SoWa Holiday Market to the Salvation Army’s Christmas Castle, getting in the spirit of the season and immersing yourself in the community are fantastic ways to get to know your new neighborhood. To make sure you don’t miss a single moment, pencil these notable holiday events into your calendar.

10^th Annual SoWa Holiday Market

The SoWa Holiday Market is the place to shop to find a unique gift for everyone on your list. This year’s event will feature New England’s best independent designers, artists, and crafters who will have their wares on display for sale. Expect to find handbags, jewelry, pottery, letterpress stationary, baby clothes, and more!

Salvation Army Christmas Castle

Be a part of a movement that helps provide toys and coats to over 4,000 in Boston at the Salvation Army Christmas Castle. You’ll help turn Park Plaza Castle into a winter wonderland by helping to decorate, set up tables, display the toys, and hang coats.

A Christmas Toy Story

The entire family will love “A Christmas Toy Story” presented by Contrapose Dance at the Boston University College of Fine Arts. This hour-long ballet is set in Santa’s workshop and features a story about elves, broken toys, a big gust of wind, and the helpfulness of friends.

Holiday Dollar Day

Kids and adults alike will enjoy themselves at the annual Holiday Dollar Day celebration on December 14^th. Sip hot drinks, be entertained, and shop for some books to cozy up with this winter. Best of all, everything in the store will be just $1.

Eat Boutique Holiday Market

Shop, eat, drink, and be merry at the Eat Boutique Holiday Market on December 7^th. You’ll mingle amongst cookbook authors, culinary experts, wine/spirit makers, and more as you sample delicious fare and get your shopping done for your favorite foodie.

As you can see, there are tons of ways to celebrate the season in Boston. From the South End to Boston’s waterfront, you’re certain to find an event or two that fit into your busy schedule as you wrap up 2013. If you’re planning to buy a home in Boston in the New Year, please get in touch with me. There are some important changes coming up that will have an impact on all buyers who require financing for their home purchases. I’d be happy to sit down with you and discuss what this means for you, as well as stand by your side throughout your journey in the Boston real estate market. I hope to hear from you soon!

Ken Snyder
Keller Williams Realty Boston-Metro
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