Family events in Cambridge, MA

Take a guided stroll through Melville Avenue, Wellesley Park, and Tremlett Street, presented by the Dorchester Historical Society and the Melville Park Neighborhood Association. Earl Taylor, President of the Dorchester Historical Society, and Donald Friary, who spent his childhood on Melville Avenue in the 1940s and 1950s, lead the walk. Learn about houses along these historic streets and hear about some of the people who called them home. Light refreshments will be available at the conclusion of the tour.

An outdoor market at Assembly Row brings together more than 30 women-owned small businesses, offering handcrafted jewelry, artisan home goods, baked treats, natural skincare, ceramics, candles, art, food, beauty, and more. Every purchase supports the people behind the products, and shoppers can find gifts or something special for themselves, often with a story to take home. Enjoy the summer Saturday atmosphere with free admission, and know that all are welcome. Make a full day of it by exploring nearby dining options such as Salt + Stone, Zo Greek, and Yakitori Totto. Getting there is simple by public transit. Take the Orange Line to Assembly Station and walk a short distance. If driving, parking is available in nearby garages and lots.

Across Somerville, Yart Sale turns the city into a celebration of creativity, community, and secondhand discoveries. Imagine the spirit of a neighborhood yard sale with an arts focused twist, as local artists, makers, and neighbors share original artwork, handmade pieces, vintage finds, art supplies, records, plants, clothing, tools, home decor, and more. Sales appear throughout the city with many happening at the same time, creating a full day of exploration from block to block. An interactive map helps you discover participating locations and plan a route that suits your interests. Those interested in taking part can host their own sale from a porch, yard, driveway, studio, business, or another approved spot. Comfortable walking shoes and a tote for new treasures make the hunt even easier.

Adults and youth can explore archery at Boyd Park with On the Mark Archery in partnership with the Newton Parks and Recreation Department. Instruction uses traditional wooden recurve bows and places emphasis on sound form and technique rather than simply aiming. Practice on the range is designed to build confidence, self-esteem, and character through challenges and steady progress. Lesson plans weave together focused skill drills with fun games and prize opportunities to keep participants engaged. Equipment is supplied, and classes are taught by teams of USA Archery certified instructors. Registration is available for individuals as well as friends or family who want to learn together. Each session runs four weeks, and participants may enroll in one or multiple sessions to continue developing their skills.

Explore Boston's history on a walk along the Freedom Trail featuring stories of James Otis, Samuel Adams, Phillis Wheatley, and others. Tickets are available at 20 percent off throughout the 2026 season.

Explore Harvard Square on a walking food tour devoted to crispy potatoes. Taste a variety of standout french fries around the neighborhood, each paired with a non-alcoholic drink. Along the way, hear lighthearted stories about the French Fry Wars of the 20th century and quirky tales from Harvard Square’s past. The route highlights a spot known for some of the best fries in the state, creating a playful experience for fry lovers of all ages. This tour is not gluten free. Tickets are available through the organizer’s website, and the experience is run by a small, local business.

At Ever Fitness, kids can dive into a weeklong martial arts camp filled with active play, friendly games, and a welcoming sense of community. No prior experience is needed, and beginners are encouraged. Participants learn foundational techniques, practice teamwork, and build confidence while staying engaged and having fun with friends in an encouraging setting.

Matt Heaton brings a lively singalong to the West Branch, with guitar tunes that get kids laughing, dancing, and singing along.

Now in its fifteenth year, this Back-to-School Celebration at TD Garden in Boston supports families as they prepare for a new school year. Participants can receive essential resources such as backpacks, school supplies, winter coats and more to help students return to the classroom ready to learn. Last year, 3,500 Boston-area families received supplies thanks to TD Garden, The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division, and the City of Boston. Over the past decade, TD Garden in the Community has donated more than 56,000 backpacks to the Greater Boston community. Registration is required and capacity is limited. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available.

Get creative with LEGO bricks in the Children’s Room on the second Thursday of each month. All supplies are provided, so there is no need to bring materials. This activity is designed for ages 3 and up. For questions, contact Annie at aschapira@somervillema.gov.

Patty Chen's Dumpling School hosts a hands-on dumpling making party in Cambridge, MA. Designed for ages 8 and up, this 2.5 hour session accommodates up to 16 participants and focuses on enjoying the process while learning useful techniques. Participants practice rolling and folding wrappers, properly stuffing them with different fillings, shaping a variety of dumplings, and cooking them. All skill levels are welcome, creating a relaxed setting for families, friends, and groups. For children’s groups, one adult must stay for the full session for every five children and will be ticketed. Dumpling ingredients are included, and the meeting point is The Historic Windsor Inn.

Step into Somerville’s past with drop-in chats at Milk Row Cemetery. This open-house style program invites people to stop by for informal conversations and site exploration on select days throughout the season. The experience is part of History on the Line, a series of exhibitions and programs organized by the Somerville Museum and funded by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism’s MA250 initiative and the City of Somerville. Milk Row Cemetery is one of three participating landmarks, along with the Powder House and Prospect Hill Tower, that open to the public on select dates from May to October.