Family events in Malden, MA

Across Somerville, Yart Sale transforms the city into a marketplace of creativity and secondhand finds. Imagine a neighborhood yard sale with an artsy twist, where local artists, makers, and neighbors offer original work, handmade items, vintage pieces, records, plants, clothing, tools, home decor, art supplies, and other unique discoveries. Visitors can explore neighborhood by neighborhood, with dozens of sales happening at once, and plan a route using an interactive map of participating locations. Community members who wish to take part can host a sale from a porch, yard, driveway, studio, business, or another approved location. Comfortable shoes and a roomy bag make the treasure hunt easier, because the best finds are often the unexpected ones.

Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Dominic Monaghan, and Billy Boyd reunite to mark 25 years of The Lord of the Rings. As part of an anniversary reunion tour, the event features a panel with the four hobbits, along with opportunities for an exclusive backstage pass, photo ops and autographs available as a group or individually, and tickets for the panel.

Set out on a walking food tour devoted to french fries in Harvard Square, sampling standout versions around the neighborhood paired with non-alcoholic drinks. Along the way, hear lighthearted stories about twentieth century fry rivalries and colorful local lore. Created for fry fans of all ages, this experience is not gluten-free. Tickets are available through the organizer’s website, and the tour is run by a small local business.

Spend a week immersed in martial arts at Ever Fitness, blending movement, play, and a strong sense of community. Kids will connect with friends, grow their confidence, and learn foundational skills while taking part in plenty of games and teamwork in a welcoming setting. No prior experience is needed, just energy and a willingness to have fun.

Kids can enjoy a lively singalong with guitarist Matt Heaton at the West Branch. Expect plenty of laughter, dancing, and opportunities to sing along.

The fifteenth annual back to school celebration welcomes families to TD Garden in Boston for practical support ahead of the new school year. Attendees can pick up essentials such as backpacks, classroom supplies, winter coats and more so students are ready to return to class. Last year, 3,500 families from across the Boston area benefited through a collaboration of TD Garden, The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division and the City of Boston, and the aim is to match that impact again. Over the last decade, TD Garden in the Community has provided more than 56,000 backpacks to Greater Boston. Registration is required and space is limited. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available.

At Chinese Culture Connection, babies and toddlers take part in a bilingual music and movement session that blends songs, stories, and play. Through singing and interactive activities, little ones are introduced to basic Chinese words and hear simple stories while getting a first look at Chinese culture in a gentle format suited to their age. The focus is on lively music, playful learning, and plenty of opportunities to move.

Spend time building with LEGO bricks in the Children's Room on the second Thursday of each month. Everything needed will be available, and the activity is open to ages 3 and up. For questions, contact Annie at aschapira@somervillema.gov.

Enjoy a hands-on dumpling making party in Cambridge, Massachusetts designed for ages 8 and up. Across two and a half hours, up to 16 participants learn how to roll and fold dough, fill dumplings with a variety of fillings, shape them in different styles, and cook them to perfection. All ingredients are included. No prior kitchen experience is needed, since the focus is on having fun while learning a new skill, making this a friendly choice for friends, families, and loved ones. Children’s groups are welcome, with one adult required to stay for every five children, and that adult will need a ticket. The session meets at The Historic Windsor Inn in Cambridge.