Five things to do around Boston, June 30-July 13
July 1
No Strings Attached
Become a puppet master at the Boston Public Library's Puppet-Making Workshop. From 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at BPL's Egleston Square branch, professional puppeteer and performer Nicola McEldowney will guide you in creating your own finger puppets. The workshop is recommended for children ages 4 -7 and their families. All materials will be provided. Free.
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July 2-July 4
Harbor of Revolution
Commemorate the American Revolution — and the state where it began — at the annual Boston Harborfest celebration. At venues across the city, listen to a kick-off speech by Mayor Michelle Wu, hear the Declaration of Independence read from the balcony of the Old State House (just how Bostonians first heard it in 1776), watch fireworks over the harbor, enjoy patriotic music from the Boston Pops Orchestra, and more. Prices vary, but most Harborfest events are free.
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July 11
Royal Refrain
Discover history-making women alongside one of America's most talented vocalists at African Queens with Karen Slack. Slack, a Grammy Award-winning soprano, will perform newly commissioned music that honors seven African queens, interspersed with spoken word and displays of African artwork. At 7:30 p.m. at the Shalin Liu Performance Center, witness these queens' lives and legacies. Find tickets, starting at $38, at
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July 11-July 12
Flavor Island
Taste the city's finest Jamaican flavors at Boston JerkFest. This food and culture festival will take over Harvard's Athletic Complex from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday and from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday. Friday, sip from more than 50 spirits, cocktails, and other specialty brew samples. On Saturday, try jerk dishes (for purchase) from dozens of local vendors, enjoy steel drum music and dancing, and make your own Caribbean-inspired crafts. Ticket prices vary, starting at $44 for a Friday concert only.
This edition of Your Week Ahead covers two weeks. Look for the next edition of Globe Magazine on July 13. Share your event news. Send information on Boston-area happenings at least three weeks in advance to week@globe.com.
Adelaide Parker can be reached at
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