Weekend Picks – June 12th

Massport Goes for a World Record
The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) will showcase the organization’s attempt at the Guinness World Records title for World’s Largest Soccer Ball at Piers Park II in East Boston this June, creating a one-of-a-kind waterfront display that can be seen from multiple points along Boston Harbor. The installation is part of ongoing efforts to build momentum and community engagement throughout the city during the FIFA World Cup games at Boston Stadium in Foxborough this June and July. Standing 45 feet, the soccer ball will attempt to officially break the current Guinness World Records mark of 38 feet, 11.8 inches, making it the largest soccer ball ever displayed. The last record was set in Doha, Qatar in 2013. The installation will remain at Piers Park II for a full week, giving residents and visitors from across the region the opportunity to experience the display while exploring East Boston’s waterfront. Get the details here.
- Guinness World Records World’s Largest Soccer Ball Attempt Display – Piers Park II, East Boston – Weeklong public display – June 12– 18
- Piers Park II Community Day – Marginal St, East Boston on Saturday, June 13 from Noon – 4 p.m.
Now Open – The Blue Caboose
The Blue Caboose, the iconic historic blue train car on the Greenway, is officially open for the season! The ice cream and coffee stand announced the news on an Instagram story on Tuesday. The menu will feature coffee, tea, and ice cream! Get all the details here!
Splish Splash
Splash pads across the City are open and ready for splashing — a great way to stay cool this summer. Additionally, there are several public pools in Boston where you can take a swim. Many are offering swim lessons and aquatic programs. Visit boston.gov/splash for an interactive map of locations, accessibility information, and live spray play status – updated hourly.
Celebrate National Lobster Day
In celebration of National Lobster Day, we say to head out and celebrate in the neighborhood! Check out our roundup!
FIFA World Cup Fever
The FIFA World Cup is coming to Boston (well…Foxboro), and whether you’re lucky enough to have tickets to a match or plan on watching here in the neighborhood, we’ve got you covered. From where to watch the games and can’t-miss fan festivals to special events, watch parties, transportation updates, and street closures, this guide has everything you need to make the most of one of the biggest sporting events in the world. Get ready, Boston—it’s about to get nuts! Get all the details here.
Hit the Beach
We have some of the cleanest urban beaches in the country right here in the neighborhood! Make a plan to spend a day at the beach! Read our beach etiquette post! Pack a picnic! Pick up some sandwiches and snacks at Carmella’s Market!
Visit the Mango Man
The Mango Man truck features the freshest mangos in the neighborhood! Stop by the corner of Gove Street and Havre Street on Saturday at 1pm until they sell out! Follow Mango Fiesta on Instagram for the latest!
Roll with it!
The Mary Ellen Welch Greenway is home to bocce courts. You may also use the courts at your leisure and check out equipment, including bocce balls, rake, and broom at the YMCA during normal operating hours. Be on the lookout for weekly Bocce games every Sunday at 4 PM throughout the summer.
Hop on a water taxi!
Looking for a fun activity around the neighborhoods? Check out the boat shuttle service that connects you from ReelHouse East Boston to Charlestown’s waterfront and the Seaport. Boston Launch Company runs their boat shuttle service daily from 11 am until 11 pm, making stops at Pier 6, Reel House East Boston, The Tall Ship, and ReelHouse Oyster Bar in the Seaport. The service costs $4 a ticket but is free during Sumner Tunnel closures. It is such a fun, easy, and convenient way to get around the city! Get all the fun details here!
Paddle all Summer
Piers Park Sailing has a new kayak pass that will have you paddling all summer long! Get moving on the ocean. You can learn more here!
Cisco Brewers Seaport Pride Party
Pride is taking over Cisco Seaport on Sunday, June 14th from 12 to 7pm. It is a full day of celebrations with live music and performances by Haus Of Monsters – Lady Gaga Tribute Band + a high-energy drag show hosted by Boston-area drag queen, Sticki Honey. The drag show starts at 5pm. RSVP here! And book a Beach Shack for the ultimate experience here!
ICA Watershed is back for a new season!
The ICA Watershed—a seasonal space in East Boston dedicated to large-scale artist projects—has reopened for the season with Lucy Raven: Rounds. This is a major new exhibition by Lucy Raven (b. 1977 in Tucson, Arizona) includes the United States premieres of Hardpan, a large-scale kinetic sculpture co-commissioned with Barbican Centre, London, and Murderers Bar (2025) a new moving image installation and the final installment of Raven’s series The Drumfire. Check it out this weekend!
Fan Zone at the Grove at the Lawn on D
Get ready, soccer fans! The Grove at Lawn on D will transform into Boston Fan Zone this summer, creating a destination for fans to gather, watch matches, and celebrate all things soccer during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The Fan Zone will feature watch parties on one of the largest outdoor screens in Greater Boston, along with food, drinks, live entertainment, interactive games, giveaways, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re heading to a match, watching from Boston, or just looking to soak up the excitement, this will be one of the city’s go-to spots for World Cup festivities.
The Fan Zone is part of a citywide celebration surrounding the FIFA World Cup, which will bring seven matches to the Boston region this summer. Boston is also hosting an official FIFA Fan Festival at City Hall Plaza, creating multiple opportunities for fans to come together and cheer on their favorite teams. With a brand-new look, a giant LED screen, and a packed lineup of events, The Grove is shaping up to be one of the hottest spots in the Seaport this summer. For more information on each event, including gate times and other special information, check out the Event Calendar.
SPORTS!
Red Sox vs. Rangers – Friday, June 12th at 7:10pm, Saturday, May 13th at 4:10pm and Sunday, June 14th at 7:20pm.
World Cup Matches – check out the schedule here.
NBA Championship – Knicks vs. Spurs – Saturday at 8:30 pm
NHL Stanley Cup Championship – Knights vs. Hurricanes Sunday at 8pm
Here are 7 Places to Watch in the Neighborhood!
Check back as this list may be updated!
Have a fun weekend! Thank you to our Caught in Eastie readers and Neighborhood Partners for supporting our local journalism efforts!
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.


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