The Bruins are playing in May for the first time in a decade, the Celtics are looking to defend their NBA crown, and the Red Sox season is in full swing. As if that weren’t enough on the menu, check out this month’s other event highlights:
Phantom Gourmet Wine and Food FestMay 2, 2009, 2-8 p.m.
Sample 30 wines from around the world, paired with 30 of the Phantom’s favorite foods from the region at the Bayside Expo Center. Tickets are sold out online, but can still be purchased for $30 at the Upper Crust’s Beacon Hill location, and Julio’s Liquors in Westborough.
Walk for HungerMay 3, 2009
Every year, 40,000 people lace up their sneakers in order to raise money for Project Bread in the Walk for Hunger. The 20-mile route begins on the Boston Common, and winds through Newton and Cambridge. This year, Project Bread is hoping to raise $4 million in the annual event. To register, visit their website . You can also donate or sponsor a particular walker here.
Cinco de MayoMay 5, 2009
Just another day in Boston? Maybe. But any holiday that encourages hoisting a margarita is fine by me (in general, use first person, not editorial We). Some of the best in town can be found at Cactus Club in the Back Bay and at the Border Café in Harvard Square. Got burritos on the mind? It’s a perfect day to refuel the Anna’s Taqueria vs. Boca Grande debate.
Ray Romano and Brad GarrettMay 6, 2009, 7:30 p.m.
The Everybody Loves Raymond stars reunite on the stage for an evening of brotherly love and laughs. Tickets start at $43.25 and can be purchased online.
Boston Pops Season OpenerMay 6, 2009, 8 p.m.
Spring is in the air, which means Symphony Hall is open for business. The Boston Pops open the 2009 season joined by Broadway star Barbara Cook. Other events of note on the Pops calendar this season: Baseball Night (May 21), John Williams conducts his most popular movie themes on May 26, and Ben Folds joins the Pops on Oct. 2. Tickets for all events are on sale now online.
Gay and Lesbian Film FestivalMay 6-17, 2009
The 25th annual celebration kicks off at the Museum of Fine Arts. General admission tickets are $10. Full festival passes, good for one admission to each of the 25 programs, are $175.
Mother’s DayMay 10, 2009
There’s no shortage of places to treat Mom on her day, including special brunch menus at the Ritz-Carlton, Hampshire House, Aura, and Aujourd‘hui. After filling up, take Mom to the Boston Common for the annual Duckling Day Parade, when children and moms will retrace the steps of the classic children’s book, Make Way for Ducklings. The $25 donation includes snacks, entertainment, and a toy for each child.
Red SoxIn addition to games against the Indians, and AL East showdowns against the Blue Jays and Rays, Interleague play kicks back into gear this month when the Mets invade Fenway for a weekend series May 22-24. Tickets are still available for select games. See website for details.
Whiskey Tasting CruiseMay 13, 2009, 7-10 p.m.
Whiskey enthusiasts unite on the high seas of Boston Harbor to sample from more than 100 rare whiskies aboard the Spirit of Boston. Tickets begin at $85 and can be purchased online.
Cocktail Nights at Sel De La TerreMay 7 and 21, 2009, 6:30 p.m.
For a broader sense of spirits, Sel De La Terre’s waterfront location will hold cocktail classes this month every other Thursday (the theme on May 7 is the Apple Jack), complete with commentary from the restaurant’s head bartender. The cost is $21 per person, but if you stick around for dinner, you can expect a 21 percent discount.
80th Anniversary Public Gardens TourMay 21, 2009, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
For 80 years, the Beacon Hill Garden Club has opened its doors to welcome the public into its hidden gardens just one day each year. This year is no exception. The private tour will take place rain or shine, and all are inviting to witness the stunning urban horticulture. Four of this year’s 12 gardens have never before been seen by the general public. Tickets are $30.
Anime Boston 2009May 22, 8 a.m.-10 p.m., May 23, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., May 24, 8 a.m.-Noon
The Northeast’s largest anime convention springs to life at the Hynes Convention Center and Sheraton Boston. Events include an anime music video contest, art show, karaoke, and game shows. Tickets are available at the door, and start at $25. See web site for details.
Dave Matthews Band at Fenway ParkThe popular jam band’s Saturday show has been sold out for some time (same with the next evening’s appearance by Phish), but tickets still remain for Dave Matthews’ Friday night show at legendary Fenway Park. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased online. [/p
Radio 92.9 Earth FestMay 30, 2009
Rock out with the Lemonheads, Soul Asylum, Shawn Mullins, and Seven Mary Three at this year’s annual free concert at the Hatch Shell. Earth Fest also features family-friendly activities and will educate the public on what they can do to go “green” by showcasing a host of environmentally friendly products. If you’d like to volunteer for this year’s festival, visit Radio 92.9’s website.
