Family events in Newton, MA

Capture new portraits in Boston’s Beacon Hill with a local photographer, as you stroll past cobblestones, brick-lined alleys, and classic row houses in this National Historic Landmark neighborhood. The mini portrait experience includes a 15-minute session and one edited image for you to download. After the shoot, you will select your favorite photo during a Zoom video call, and that image will be polished and delivered. If you want more than the single included photo, options are available for extra digital files, boxed prints, wall art, albums, cards, and other upgrades. Longer sessions and packages that include additional locations can also be arranged, and the area offers iconic backdrops, including the country’s most photographed street.

A play centered group created for children younger than two, facilitated by occupational, physical, and speech therapy professionals. Sessions feature themed activities that build early movement, communication, and sensory skills. Families have a chance to connect while little ones explore at their own pace in a warm, welcoming space. All families are welcome, siblings included, and the environment is well suited for children with a wide range of developmental needs who benefit from gentle guidance and support.

Berserk brings a family-friendly celebration of Norse culture with staged battles, hands-on crafts, music, and hearty Nordic fare. Two rival Viking camps set up on the lawn, where visitors can see historical tools, try traditional games, and watch combat demonstrations that build toward a dramatic final clash between the camps. Activities invite participation for every age group. Test your strength with a stone lifting challenge hosted by the New England Stone Lifters, practice basic warrior skills, and explore daily life inside the encampments. Younger participants can craft messages in runes, try simple weaving, and meet costumed Vikings to learn about gear and legend. Food and treats round out the experience. Inside Kaffestugan, find warm waffles, sandwiches, Nordic breads, prepared foods, candies, and other Scandinavian goods. Outdoors, Gunner’s Icelandic Hot Dogs serves the classic topped with crispy onions, sweet brown mustard, remoulade, and more. Tickets are available with tiered pricing. Adults are $20 in advance and $25 on the day, and children 12 and under are $10 in advance and $15 on the day.

This Boston walk and community day at Franklin Park Zoo, presented by the Immune Deficiency Foundation, brings people together to support those who cannot face immune challenges alone. The fundraiser focuses on improving life for immunocompromised individuals and their families by advancing research, strengthening advocacy, and expanding helpful resources. National sponsors are CSL Behring, Grifols, Amgen Rare Disease, ADMA Biologics, Pharming, Kedrion BioPharma, CVS Specialty, GC Biopharma, and Pfizer. Local sponsors are Chiesi Global Rare Diseases, Promptcare, CarePartners Specialty Infusion, Vital Care of Cambridge, and Haemonetics.

Take a walking food tour through Harvard Square focused on crispy french fries, paired with non-alcoholic beverages chosen to complement each bite. Along the route, hear entertaining tales about the 20th century’s French Fry Wars and memorable pieces of Harvard Square history. The area is known for exceptional fries, making this a playful outing for fry fans of all ages. This experience is not gluten-free. Tickets are required and can be purchased on the organizer’s website, and it is presented by a small, local business.