Weekend Picks – April 17th

3.8 min readBy Published On: April 16th, 2026Categories: See and Do0 Comments on Weekend Picks – April 17th

Try Eastie’s buzzy new restaurant

In case you missed it: La Tavernetta, the new dining concept from the team behind Mida, is officially open in East Boston! Award-winning chef Douglass Williams’ latest restaurant is an all-day Italian tavern with a coastal aesthetic, a large indoor bar, and a pretty unbeatable view of Boston’s skyline. Take advantage of the spring weather with an Aperol spritz served up in adorable purse-shaped glassware, seafood from the raw bar, and one of the mouthwatering mains. (Check out the full menu here.) 

Laugh the night away at The Well

Jelly Jaw Comedy is bringing a night of standup comedy to The Well Coffee House on Saturday, April 18, at 7 p.m. Sit back (perhaps with a pastry or a coffee) and watch as several rising Boston comedians take the stage. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance on Eventbrite or at the door. 

Bring the little ones to Healthy Kids Day

From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, the East Boston YMCA is participating in Healthy Kids Day — the organization’s national initiative aimed at improving the well-being of kids and families. Our neighborhood’s event will feature local vendors, a bounce house, face painting, Zumba classes, arts and crafts, and even a chance to win Red Sox tickets. RSVP in advance

See signs of spring at Belle Isle Marsh

Add nature observation to your Saturday morning itinerary with a free event at Belle Isle Marsh Reservation! From 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., our city’s largest remaining salt marsh is hosting “Signs of Spring Bioblitz,” a community program complete with a children-focused hour and an all-ages guided walk. There will also be no shortage of opportunities to spot birds, plants, and other local wildlife. Find all the event information here

New Exhibition to see at AWG

Atlantic Works Gallery is pleased to announce AWG & Friendsa group exhibit, on view May 2 through May 23, 2026. This dynamic exhibition brings together gallery members alongside invited artists, highlighting a diverse range of creative voices and mediums. In celebration of the vibrant East Boston arts community, the gallery will host early hours on Saturday, May 2, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, in conjunction with the East Boston Artists Group Open Studios event, taking place across the neighborhood. Atlantic Works Gallery will host their regularly scheduled Third Thursday Reception on Thursday, May 21 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, offering visitors the opportunity to meet participating artists, share light bites and experience the exhibition in a lively, welcoming atmosphere, including an artist talk. Get all the details!

Pasta on the Pier

Start the weekend early at Reel House on Thursdays! Four delicious courses for just $30/person. And yes, ✨all of our pastas & desserts are available Gluten-Free (just ask!)  🍝 Pasta of the week: Chicken Broccoli Alfredo – Fusilli, garlic, white wine, butter, cream, Parmesan cheese – 🍋 Dessert of the week: Meyer Lemon Trifle: Graham cracker crumble, lemon mousse, toasted vanilla meringue.  Book your reservation today!

Feel the pre-Marathon excitement

Marathon Monday is almost here! What better way to celebrate than at the official Boston Marathon Fan Fest? All weekend long, City Hall Plaza is hosting exciting events and activations leading up to race day. Think: appearances by Boston Marathon champions, live music and podcast recordings, workout classes, and food and beer.  Plus make sure to check out our Boston Marathon Guide here! 

Dash amongst the daffodils

Another way to ring in Marathon weekend: the fifth annual Marathon Daffodil Dash at Suffolk Downs. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Marathon daffodils will surround the track for three 50-yard dash races for children in kindergarten through eighth grade. Post-race, stick around for a bit to enjoy the food trucks, face painting, and a DJ spinning live tunes. (Pre-registration is required for runners.) 

Ride in a Swan Boat

You know spring is officially here when the iconic Swan Boats make their way back to the Boston Public Garden! Ring in the season with a ride on one of the elegant pontoons, available starting on Saturday at 10 a.m. Learn more and plan your visit here! 

SPORTS!

Bruins vs. Sabers – Date and Time TBD.

Celtics vs. TBD – Sunday, April 19th at 1pm

Red Sox vs. Tigers – Friday, April 17th at 7:15pm, Saturday, April 18th at 4:10pm and Sunday, April 19th at 1:35pm

Boston Fleet vs. Montreal Victoire on Friday at 7pm.

Want to catch the game from a local sports bar? Here are our top seven spots.

Check back as this list may be updated!

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