March is here, with lots to do!

Much like the weather often turns a corner in March, it was on the cold night of March 5, 1770 that the British colony of Boston turned a corner in its relationship to Mother England. The Boston Massacre is often looked upon as the beginning of fight between England and her North American colonies and a keystone event that would lead to the battles of Lexington and Concord five years later.  On March 10th, the Bostonian Society will be holding a day of activities centered round the Boston Massacre, concluding with a historically accurate re-enactment in the evening. All events will be taking place in or just outside of the Old State House, the site of the actual events 242 years ago. Visit http://www.bostonhistory.org/ for additional information.

As the chill of winter eases, it is in March that we usually get our first impression about this year's spring, so it is very fitting that the theme to this year's Boston Flower and Garden Show is First Impressions. The Boston Flower and Garden Show March 14th-18th at the Seaport World Trade Center in Boston is a wonderful way to get into the spirit of spring. Visit http://www.bostonflowershow.com/ for details. 

After treating you eyes to the beauty of the buds at the flower show, you may wish to treat your taste buds to Restaurant Week(s).  From March 18th-23rd and March 25th-30th various restaurants will be offering prix fixe menus at significantly reduced prices. This is a great chance to try some of the many new restaurants in the area, or visit an old favorite. For more information and to see a list of participating restaurant's visit http://www.restaurantweekboston.com/ .

Of course, if there is one thing Boston is good at, it is throwing a parade. The annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in South Boston is not only a time tested tradition, but an event that is so closely associated with the city and its large Irish population that it has gain worldwide recognition as THE St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This year’s parade will take place on Sunday, March 18^th.

Finally, if you need a break from the food, and the marching, and the re-enacted bloodshed, the Woman in Comedy Festival may be just what you are looking for. From March 21^st-25^th many of the best female comics will be performing at various venues throughout the area. With 225 comics on hand, you are sure to find just the right style of show to help you laugh winter right out the door.  For more information visit http://www.womenincomedyfestival.com/

No matter what brings you to the area this March, we at Harding House encourage you to put a spring in your step and enjoy all that you do! 

Audra

The shortest but seemingly busiest month of the year....

From prancing princesses to lumbering linebackers, February has a lot to offer those coming to Cambridge and Boston. the month kicks off with of the Hasting Pudding Man of the Year celebration on February 3rd.. This year Jason Segel will be honored with the traditionally rowdy parade through Harvard Square. On February 4th, the Some Like it Hot Chili cook off  keeps the Square jumping. And the hits just keep on coming on coming. February 5th many of the business, especially the restaurants around the area will be hosting special events honoring the New England Patriots return to the Super Bowl. 

Speaking of hits, if you still have any strength left, the Beanpot Tournament kicks off on February 6th at the Boston Garden.  Considered the premier college hockey event of the year, the Beanpot attracts national attention as the four of the top college hockey programs in the area, including Harvard, fight it out for local domination.

For those of you who are more a lover than a fighter, Harvard Square will be honoring Valentine's Day from February 10th-14th with Lovin' the Square events designed to bring out the romantic in everyone. If you need some ideas check out www.harvardsquare.com and click on the events link. Several restaurants and shops will be offering specials to help you cozy up to your sweetie.

After all of that, everyone could use a break, February 20-26 is school vacation week in Massachusetts. Many of the local attractions will be hosting special events designed for children. The Old State House in Boston, for example, will be running programs all week with hands on activities to encourage young minds to discover more of Boston's unique history.  Visit www.bostonhistory.org for more information.

For those with small children (or those who are young at heart) Disney on Ice will be running matinee performances  of their show "Dare to Dream" throughout the week at the Boston Garden.  Do not be surprised by the number of fair princesses you see on the train!

We at the Harding House hope you will take sometime during this busy month to rest and relax--perhaps using the extra day-February 29th to catch your breath before March roars in like the proverbial lion! 

-Audra