James Sawler, of RoadSafe Traffic Systems, paints the starting line for the Boston Marathon. Photo by Craig F. Walker/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

In the City

Join the Citywide Festivities for One Boston Day: Discover Events across Town

Celebrate with these events

Just over a decade ago, the City of Boston decided to commemorate the anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombings by establishing One Boston Day. The initiative aims to embrace and preserve the city’s spirit and honor those whose lives were lost and forever changed, and this year will be no different. “One Boston Day reminds us of the spirit of our city that is shaped by people who stand up and take action when help is needed,” Bill Richard, Founder of the Martin Richard Foundation, says. Mayor Michelle Wu sends a call to action to residents and community-based organizations to join in service and spread kindness. As the day represents the kick-off to spring in the City of Boston and brighter days ahead, there are various ways to make a meaningful impact on One Boston Day.

One Kind Act

Buy a friend a cup of coffee or tea for a friend, a stranger, or someone who needs it. One small gesture can go a long way in brightening someone’s day. This is an opportunity to create a ripple effect, encouraging others to pay it forward. It may even lead you to spark a conversation with someone new in your community.

Donate to a Cause of Your Choice

Boston Marathon runners often run for a cause near and dear to their hearts. What causes do you support? You can donate directly to your BU Community, specifically to an organization or space at BU. The Red Cross Blood Drive will also be held on One Boston Day; you can schedule an appointment nearby. 

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer in your local Boston community. An hour of your time can make a tangible impact. Call your local animal shelter to see how you can assist; the Animal Rescue League of Boston currently has opportunities all over Massachusetts. Just ahead of the marathon, join the Boston community to clean up Franklin Zoo Park. For our Terriers, BU’s Community Service Center’s Spring Day of Service is an opportunity to volunteer a day or weekend of your time. If you’re an alum, be sure to check out the Alumni Association’s Global Days of Service.

Recycle

The clocks have sprung forward, the sun is shining, and it’s time for spring cleaning. With warmer weather ahead, it is time to clean out your closet. According to the City of Boston, over 85 percent of textile waste can be donated, reused, or recycled. Check out boston.gov/textiles, to find your local drop-off location.

Practice Self-Care

The best care is self-care, especially as students enter the final stretch. In honor of One Boston Day, take the time to show yourself love. Focus on doing the things you enjoy or taking some time to relax—creating playlists, picking up a book, taking long walks, or meditating.

Support Local and Small Business

Are you a foodie? Set up a breakfast or lunch date with your friends or loved ones to support the Boston community that surrounds you. For breakfast, grab bagels and an oat milk matcha from Pavement Coffeehouse on Comm Ave. Brown Sugar Cafe, which serves delicious Thai cuisine and teas, could be the perfect pick-me-up for lunch. For a sweet treat to top off the day, Modern Pastry House is a Boston family-owned bakery in the North End. 

Cheer on the runners at the 128th Boston Marathon

This year’s One Boston Day is especially meaningful, as April 15 will be the same day as the 128th running of the Boston Marathon. Get in the spirit by stopping by the race to cheer on the runners from the sidelines.