Weekend Picks – MLK 2026

Check out The Rink at The Tall Ship
Introducing The Rink at The Tall Ship! Boston’s most iconic waterfront destination is about to make waves – this time, on ice.❄️⛸ Navy Yard Hospitality Group, in partnership with the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport), is thrilled to announce the preview opening of The Rink at The Tall Ship, taking place this weekend, January 16. The preview marks the first phase of a new seasonal transformation of East Boston’s iconic waterfront venue. This initial soft launch offers guests an early look at the outdoor ice rink and select programming, with a full grand opening scheduled for February 11, 2026, when additional features, amenities, and experiences will debut. Get all the details here!
The Rink at The Tall Ship will offer a layered, immersive experience featuring:
- Outdoor Ice Rink with Skating Loop: Public skating for all ages, seasonal
programming, special events, and group outings. - Ice Bumper Cars: A unique, high-energy attraction for families, groups, and winter
thrill-seekers. - Airstream Food Trailers: Serving elevated comfort and ski lodge fare such as hearty
soups, grilled cheese sandwiches, tacos, and indulgent sweets like Belgian waffles, hot
cocoa, and freshly baked goods.
La Hacienda Mariachi Band Night
On Friday, La Hacienda is hosting a live mariachi band starting at 8pm. And on Sunday, since it’s a long weekend, enjoy a live DJ starting at 8pm!
Who doesn’t love a Girl Scout Cookie?
Thin Mints, Peanut Butter Patties, Caramel Delights – we love them all! First Priority Credit Union welcomes the Bradley School 1st Grade Girl Scout Troop 63615 on Saturday, January 17 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at First Priority Credit Union 100 Swift Street, East Boston. Stop by and show your support…and eat some cookies!
Celebrate National Pizza Week in the Neighborhood
Embark on a culinary adventure through East Boston’s vibrant pizza scene with our round-up of timeless favorites and innovative newcomers! From Santarpio’s iconic Boston-style slices to Woody’s wild Hot Cheetos menu, East Boston’s pizza culture is a journey best taken by the hungry. Check out our roundup!
Pilates + Pajamas at The Point Revere
Slip into your coziest PJs and meet The Point on the mat for the ultimate winter treat! Join @practicewithtiff for a feel-good infrared-heated mat Pilates class that will leave you warm, strong, and totally relaxed! after class, stick around for free hot cocoa —because balance ☕🧘♀. This fun event takes place on Friday, January 16th at 5pm at its Revere location! Pajamas are encouraged. You can register here!
New Customer Special offers at Lapels East Boston
Enjoy FREE Wash & Fold (up to 30 lbs) or a FREE self-serve wash when you visit Lapels Monday through Friday. Just present this offer at the service counter to redeem. Lapels is located at 220 Border St., East Boston. Offer valid for new customers only. Expires 3/1/26. Learn more here.
New Show at AWG
Atlantic Works Gallery is excited to welcome 2026 with Art for the New Year: Small Works Off the Wall, a vibrant and accessible exhibition featuring small works by members, alumni, and invited friends of the gallery. This non-juried show brings together a colorful range of styles, mediums, and creative voices from across our community. To celebrate the new year, all artworks are priced at $300 or less, making this an ideal opportunity for both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers. Presented salon-style, the exhibition offers a lively, dynamic experience filled with painting, photography, drawing, and more. This year’s Third Thursday Reception on January 15 (6–9 PM) includes an exciting new twist: Guests who purchase artwork during the reception will take it home that night—right off the wall. It’s a joyful way to collect original art and start the new year with something handmade, meaningful, and truly unique. Get all the details
Free Admission to Museums
In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day museums all over Boston will be offering free admission. The participating museums are The MFA, The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, The ICA, The Peabody Essex Museum. Also The Franklin Park Zoo is having free admission. A perfect way to spend the day and learn something new…for FREE!
Cocktails in a Speakeasy
Stop by Next Door – a very cool and chic speakeasy – and enjoy a cocktail or two. Next Door’s cocktail menu features creative and fun drinks, like the Queen of Hearts made with cherry-infused bourbon. You can check out the cocktail menu here!
MLK Concert featuring the BCC
Boston Children’s Chorus (BCC) proudly announces its 23rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute Concert, Where Conscience Walked, taking place on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Symphony Hall. BCC singers invite audiences to reflect on the enduring question: “What does it mean to follow your conscience in a world that challenges your convictions?” Get the details here.
SPORTS!
Bruins vs. Rangers – Saturday, January 10th at 1pm
Bruins vs. Penguins – Sunday, January 11th at 5pm
Celtics vs. Raptors– Friday, January 9th at 7pm
Celtics vs. Spurs– Saturday, January 10th at 8pm
Patriots vs. Chargers – Sunday, January 11th at 8pm
NFL Playoff Schedule – check it out here.
Here are 7 Places to Watch in the Neighborhood!
Check back as this list may be updated!
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.


5 Things You Should Know This Week – February 9th
A Guide to Celebrating the Lunar New Year 2026
Weekend Picks – February 6th