Boston’s national parks to throw centennial party
Turning 100 is nothing to sneeze at — especially when we're talking about the stunning national parks in our area. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the National Park Service, and the national parks of Boston will mark the occasion with a series of free events and activities tomorrow through Saturday on the waterfront, Boston Harbor Islands and the Charlestown Navy Yard.
The three-day party (themed “Celebrating the Spirit of Revolution”) kicks off at Christopher Columbus Park with an opening ceremony tomorrow at 11 a.m. followed by live entertainment, free Zumba lessons, kids activities, environmental programs and free boat rides to the Boston Harbor Islands.
In partnership with the city of Boston, Boston Parks and Recreation and the Department of Conservation and Recreation (among others), the celebration also includes a free concert by the U.S. Air Force Band, Rhythm in Blue, a screening of the Hollywood classic “On the Town,” hands-on history programs and panels on Friday, and a Lindy hop canteen dance (with free swing dance lessons) on Saturday (all at the Charlestown Navy Yard).
Slated to celebrate will be National Parks of Boston Superintendent Michael Creasey, U.S. Rep. Stephen F. Lynch, U.S. Rep. Michael
E. Capuano, State Energy and Environmental Affairs secretary Matthew A.
Beaton and Boston Chief of Policy Joyce T. Linehan.
Here's your chance to brush up on some history before heading to the party: On Aug. 25, 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed the act that created the National Park Service — which in the Hub includes the Boston African American National Historic Site, a large area of homes, schools and churches on Beacon Hill that were owned by a thriving black community that fought against slavery; Boston National Historical Park, which includes eight sites along the Freedom Trail; and the 34 islands and peninsulas of Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park.