Esplanade Association

The Esplanade Association is a non-profit park friends group dedicated to caring for the Charles River Esplanade. Since our founding in 2001 we have been the catalyst for over $28 million dollars invested in park improvements, projects, programs, and advocacy....

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EA Names Alexi Conine as New Board Chair

The Esplanade Association Board of Directors is proud to announce that Alexi Conine has been elected to serve as Board Chair, beginning in 2017. Alexi has served as a member of the Esplanade Association’s board for the past year and has been deeply involved with helping to move the organization forward through her service on the Executive Committee and Project Planning Committee of the organization.  

Alexi was an Engineer and Product manager at Rohm & Haas for 10 years and more recently has been focused on her family, parks and outdoor recreation.  She previously served as the President of Friends of Titus Sparrow Park in the South End for six years. A Back Bay resident, Alexi can often be found running or biking on the Esplanade with her family.  She has a chemical engineering degree from Cornell and an MBA from Simmons. 

“We are extremely fortunate to have Alexi taking on the role of Board Chair for our organization. We know that her breadth of experience and passion for the park will make her an incredible leader”, noted Tani Marinovich EA’s Executive Director

Alexi will be replacing Margo Newman, who after serving for 6 years, is stepping down at the end of 2016 as the Chair of the Esplanade Association’s Board of Directors. Margo was heavily involved in the search for her replacement and has been working closely with Alexi to transition her into the new role.

Margo, in summing up the board decision, stated, “The board was looking for the right person to take on this position and after working closely with Alexi this year we all agreed that she would be an excellent candidate. Alexi has been a great asset to the organization and we are excited to see her take on the role of Board Chair.”  

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2016 Volunteer Spotlight - Boston Cares

Esplanade Association would like to recognize Boston Cares as our volunteers of the year for their continued commitment to improving the park in 2016. We are pleased to have Boston Cares Volunteer Leader, Anthony Rufo accept this honor on behalf of the group and share his experience below.

My name is Anthony Rufo, a Boston Cares “Volunteer Leader” who coordinates between the wonderful Boston Cares organization and the eminent Esplanade Association. I began volunteering to offer my hand to help my adopted home of Boston while I was a student at Northeastern University and post-graduation volunteering has remained a very important part of my life. I enjoy relaxing, running and the like in our great parks, so it seems only right that I spend some time cleaning them up a bit. Some of my best experiences helping out have been with the great crew of skilled employees at the Esplanade Association. I highly encourage EVERYONE to get involved in their communities and lend a hand in any way they think helps. I am inspired by former governor of Massachusetts Michael Dukakis who picks up and throws away the litter off the ground as he walks to work every day.

Boston Cares is very grateful to accept the Esplanade Association’s designation as their volunteers of the year. The year was filled with excellently planned projects and Boston Cares was always able to provide energetic volunteers to keep the Charles River Esplanade looking absolutely gorgeous all year round. In 2016 Boston Cares volunteers spent 16 Saturdays with the Esplanade Association, helping to weed the greens, clean litter, remove invasive species along the river banks, lay playground safety fibar chips, and assist with planting some of the park’s awesome annual flowers. The Esplanade Association's amazing horticulture team, Renee, Shiann and Meredith, and the DCR always made the work easy by providing us with the tools and guidance we needed. Boston Cares is the city’s largest volunteer mobilizing organization providing Greater Boston with thousands of hours of community service each year. Each Esplanade Association’s Park Cleanup and Restoration Project has a Boston Cares team of up to ten volunteers who sign up on www.bostoncares.org to participate in the project. Volunteers showed up for each project eager and prepared to help beautify the park.

To learn more about Esplanade Association volunteer opportunities visit http://esplanadeassociation.org/volunteer/

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With your support, 2016 was an amazing year to experience the Charles River Esplanade. We have great plans for 2017, but what we can accomplish depends on you.  Your gift today is an important investment in the future of the Esplanade.  Please support the Esplanade by making a tax-deductible donation before December 31st. Donate now

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Visit the Esplanade this weekend and win!

Get Outside for a Chance to Win a $500 Wayfair Gift Card! 

This weekend, instead of shopping for #BlackFriday, we want to encourage you to celebrate #GreenFriday by getting outside and enjoying our beautiful park.

That's why from Friday, November 25th - Sunday, November 27th, we invite you to participate in a #GreenFriday Esplanade Tree Hunt for the chance to win a $500 gift card to Wayfair!

#GreenFriday Esplanade Tree Hunt! 

As you know, one of the Esplanade's greatest assets is the over 1,700 trees. In honor of our organization’s 15 year anniversary, we have planted 15 beautiful new trees in the park and we want you to find them!

Our #GreenFriday Tree Hunt will invite you to visit the park, find each of the new specially marked trees, and share it with us on Instagram.  Everyone who participates will be entered for the chance to win a $500 gift card to Wayfair.

Here's How It Works:

Visit the Esplanade between Friday, November 25th and Sunday, November 27th.

Find the 15 new trees that we have planted between Community Boating Inc. and the Stoneman Playground. Each new tree will have a silver tag.

Write down the accompanying letter on each of the 15 silver tags. Once you have all 15 letters you will be able to arrange them to create a secret phrase.

Take a photo of at least one of our 15 new trees and post it on Instagram using #EATreeHunt

Privately message EsplanadeAssn on Instagram and let us know you have participated by including the 15 letter secret phrase.

We will then randomly pick one lucky participant to win our $500 Wayfair Gift Card! The winner will be announced on Friday, December 2nd.

Happy Holidays and Happy Hunting!

Please note: All of the above criteria must be completed to be entered to win the $500 Wayfair gift card.  Gift card may not be redeemed for cash. 

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Planning for Spring Blooms 

Contributed by Micah Jasny

As the leaves begin to fall and winter slowly presses in upon us, it is important to think towards warmer times and the return of spring. We here at the Esplanade Association are already looking forward to spring and planning on how to celebrate spring and enhance esplanade-goers experience. Over the last few weeks, the EA horticulture staff along with the help of several volunteer groups have been digging, fertilizing, and planting roughly 42,000 flower bulbs throughout the Charles River Esplanade.

              Among the thousands of flower bulbs are different species of Tulips, Daffodils, Crocuses, Muscari, snow drop, spring beauty and many more! Depending on what type of flower, a hole is dug anywhere from 2 to 8 inches down (typically the depth is about twice the height of the flower bulb). Between 7 and 15 bulbs are then placed at the bottom of the hole, sprinkled with fertilizer, and then covered with soil. Sometimes multiple layers of flower bulbs are planted in a hole with a layer of larger ones at the bottom and smaller ones sitting on top.

These bulbs have been planted in patches and waves throughout the esplanade including in front of the Hatch Shell, along shorelines and bridges, and near exercise courses and scattered across open spaces. Different flower species will bloom at different times. Some flowers such as Crocus and snowdrop are early spring bloomers and can be seen from late January to early March. Others such as Scilla and Daffodils can be seen in the esplanade starting in March and April. Then we have planted some late bloomers such as our Tulips and Lilac. So when the snow finally starts to melt, be sure to head down to the esplanade to enjoy the vibrant waves of purples, golds, whites, and reds when spring comes.

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Regatta Ready

On Wednesday, October 5, the Esplanade Association hosted 35 volunteers from Pierce Atwood for a corporate volunteer day. The spent the day working in the upper park area near the Esplanade outdoor exercise course. This worksite is one of the most popular gathering places for viewing the upcoming Head of the Charles Regatta. Unfortunately, it is also one of the areas in the park most plagued by invasive species, especially False Indigo bush. Volunteers cleared nearly a quarter mile of the shoreline of these dense invasive plants, ensuring that park spectators will have a clear view of the regatta come the event.

The Head of the Charles, is the world’s largest two-day regatta.  This year the event will be taking place on October 22 and 23, 2016. The regatta welcomes top crew teams from all over the world who come to compete on the Charles River.

Thank you to Pierce Atwood for clearing the view for the tens of thousands of spectators expected to flock to the shores of the Charles for the race. As you finalize your regatta viewing plans, consider watching from the banks of the Esplanade!

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Pro tips for the best fall photography

It’s hard to believe that it’s almost the end of September! Mid-late October may be the prime time for leaf peeping in Boston, but you can still see some beautiful fall foliage right now.

The Charles River Esplanade, with over 1,700 trees, is the perfect location to capture the leaves changing colors. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a complete beginner, Popular Photography has provided some easy tips to help you take better fall foliage photos.

We encourage you to get your camera, enjoy the beautiful autumn weather, and test your photography skills in the park.  And don’t forget to share your photos with us using #EsplanadeAssn. 

If you’re interested in learning more about how the Esplanade Association is working to ensure the health of our trees visit http://www.esplanadeassociation.org/what-we-do/park-care/tree-care/.

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A Magical Evening to Benefit the Park

The Esplanade Association hosted our annual Moondance Gala fundraiser on Saturday, September 24. It was truly an amazing evening for the park, as well as a fantastic celebration for the Esplanade Association as we celebrated 15 years of making life better on the Esplanade.  

The Moondance Gala is our organization's largest fundraiser and is so vital to supporting the work that we do in the park.  This year, thanks to our supporters, we raised over $900,000 for the Esplanade!

We were so grateful to be surrounded by friends, long-time advocates and new supporters - all committed to caring for and improving the Charles River Esplanade.  We would like to extend a special thanks to this year's Moondance Co-Chairs, Lori and Matthew Sidman as well as all who served on the Moondance Gala committee. 

The theme of this year's Moondance Gala was Back to Our Roots.  To carry this theme into the park, the plants and trees used to decorate the tents this year will be planted in the Esplanade following the event. With the tents looking out onto the park, the amazing decor, and the fantastic group of supporters, it was truly an unforgettable night.

While paying tribute to the Esplanade Association's founding friends, Executive Director, Tani Marinovich quoted President Teddy Roosevelt: "We are not building this country of ours for a day. It is to last through the ages.  Any generation fit to do its work must work for the future, for the people of the future, as well as for itself."

This year proceeds from the evening will help to fund new initiatives including the restoration of the historic Lotta Fountain, the introduction of a Wayfinding Signage System, the development of a long term maintenance and succession plan for the park's over 1,700 trees, and the beginning of the process to restore the Lee Pool area.   

The support of our sponsors, in-kind donors, members of the Event Committee, Board of Directors, and guests - will ensure that the Esplanade continues to enrich the community and all of our lives for generations to come.  We thank all of our supporters for joining us in making life better on the Esplanade.

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DCR Recreational Advisory: DCR’s Charles River Esplanade

WHAT: On Saturday, September 17, 2016, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) will implement access restrictions at DCR’s Hatch Memorial Shell and abutting parkland along the Charles River Esplanade in the City of Boston to accommodate the annual MixFEST event. DCR Rangers will be on hand to assist visitors, and public access will be accommodated during the day of the event after passing through security entrances located at Clarendon Street and adjacent to Community Boating.

WHERE: DCR’s Charles River Esplanade in the City of Boston

WHEN:  No access on Saturday, September 17, 2016 at the Esplanade area between Clarendon Street to DCR’s Hatch Memorial Shell and Union Boathouse from 9:30AM to 10:30AM

Public access through the Esplanade on Saturday, September 17, 2016 can be gained once individuals have cleared through security entrances from 10:30AM to 6:00PM.

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The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), an agency of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, oversees 450,000 acres of parks and forests, beaches, bike trails, watersheds, dams, and parkways. Led by Commissioner Leo Roy, the agency’s mission is to protect, promote, and enhance our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources. To learn more about DCR, our facilities, and our programs, please visit www.mass.gov/dcr. Contact us [email protected].

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Esplanade Eats

One of the best things about the Esplanade is that while the park feels secluded and peaceful, it is only a short stroll from Boston’s bustling neighborhoods. This makes it easy to pick up lunch at a nearby restaurant and enjoy it in the park!

One of my favorite local places is Pressed, a quick-serve health food spot in Beacon Hill. Its location on Charles Street makes stopping in on your way to the Esplanade a breeze. Pressed serves cold-pressed juices, superfood shakes, homemade paletas (popsicles), and healthy lunch items.

On a hot day, there is no better way to cool off than with a superfood shake – my favorite one, simply called “Calm”, is a perfect blend of house-made chai, banana, coconut, almond milk, almond butter, dates, and hemp protein.

Another popular menu item at Pressed is the superfood sushi, a delicious combination of sweet potato, avocado, cucumber, burdock and yacon roots, seasonal pickled vegetables, black rice, and a miso-ginger dipping sauce.

Pressed is designed with the on-the-go health foodie in mind. The space is small, but inviting. Limited seating encourages patrons to grab their food and drinks and explore the neighborhood. This design, coupled with its accessible location, makes Pressed the perfect place to stock up for a healthy picnic on the Esplanade!

Next time you’re in the neighborhood, or on the Esplanade, give Pressed a try. It is located at 120 Charles Street.

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What Are These Group Fitness Classes on the Esplanade?

Contributed by Rob Ward

Have you ever passed by the swarm of people dancing on the Hatch Shell Lawn on Tuesday nights? What about the calm crowd of yogis on Fiedler Field every Wednesday? Or, maybe you’ve seen the passionate community of CrossFit athletes that gathers every Thursday. 

If you’re like many curious passers-by who wonder how to get involved, we have an answer. These workout groups are part of the Esplanade Association’s Healthy, Fit, and Fun program. Classes meet weekly and are free and open to the public.

Healthy, Fit, and Fun classes end in mid-September, but they are showing no signs of slowing down. Last week, our Tuesday Zumba class saw 330 participants get a great workout, courtesy of Healthworks. Wednesday Yoga is going strong as well – this week 264 people enjoyed a class taught by bestselling author and acclaimed yoga instructor, Sara Divello. Thursday night CrossFit has its own devoted crowd, with a typical attendance of 30-40 people eager to work out with Jared and Emily of Kendall Square CrossFit.  

Each night, participants are kept hydrated by Polar Beverages, and energized by Stop and Shop and CLIF Bar. Blue Cross Blue Shield has been a fantastic partner as well, and has been on-site giving out free sunglasses to combat the bright summer days.

Come see what all the hype is about! Classes begin at 6:00pm and run Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays until September 15.

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Participate in August Tree Check Month

Asian Longhorned Beetle, Anoplophora glabripennis, ALB adults continue to be active in Massachusetts in August. In fact, the US Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has called August Tree Check Month, as it is a prime time to find ALB adult beetles and report any insects or signs of infestation. 

They are asking the public to take 10 minutes and inspect their trees, particularly maple. Look for the insect itself (a shiny black bodied beetle with white spots and long antennae with black and white bands) or signs of an ALB infestation which include perfectly round exit holes (about the size of a dime), shallow oval or round scars in the bark where a female has chewed an egg site, or sawdust-like frass (excrement) on the ground nearby host trees or caught in between branches. They ask the public to take the following steps:

Make note of what you found; take a photo when possible (of suspicious damage, the beetle, etc.)

Capture the suspicious insect when possible; place it in a container and freeze it

Report your findings

The regulated area for Asian longhorned beetle is 110 miles2 encompassing Worcester, Shrewsbury, Boylston, West Boylston, and parts of Holden and Auburn. If you believe you have captured an Asian longhorned beetle or have seen damage caused by this insect, such as exit holes, on susceptible host trees like maple, please call the Asian Longhorned Beetle Eradication Program office in Worcester, MA at 508-852-8090 or toll free at 1-866-702-9938. 

To report an Asian longhorned beetle find online or compare it to common insect look-alikes, visit:http://massnrc.org/pests/albreport.aspx or https://www.aphis.usda.gov/pests-diseases/alb/report.

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#TBT - Charlesbank Playground (1889) We've always understood the importance of outdoor play. Luckily our playgrounds have evolved since 1889. Thanks to your support kids today can enjoy playing on the Esplanade all year long! Visit one of our three park playgrounds today! http://www.esplanadeassociation.org/about-the-park/things-to-do/playgrounds/. (at Charles River Esplanade)

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#happyhour thank you @saradivello for an amazing yoga class last night! Beautiful photo courtesy of Pam Steel. #yoga #fitspiration #instagramfit #igersboston #bostondotcom #igersnewengland #myesplanade (at Charles River Esplanade)

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Tuesday team status meeting. No conference room required. #myesplanade #charlesriver #traveltuesday #workperks #parksandrec #getoutside (at Charles River Esplanade)

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There were many highlights of last night's Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular but this was one of our favorites. As Supervisor of the Esplanade, Angelo Tilas was celebrating his 34th and final #BostonJuly4th. As a special sendoff he got to experience being a guest conductor for the Boston Pops! What was your favorite part of last night's celebration! #bostonpops #independanceday #4theofjuly #massdcr #myesplanade (at Charles River Esplanade)

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8 Ways to Get Active on the Esplanade this Summer

1.    Healthy, Fit & Fun

From July 12 – September 15, the Esplanade Association will partner with local businesses to host free fitness classes on the Esplanade.  Classes will run weekly, Tues - Thurs and include Zumba, Yoga and CrossFit.  For a list of this summer’s classes and schedule visit the Healthy, Fit & Fun page.

 2.    Bicycle Riding

The Esplanade provides cyclists of all ages the opportunity to enjoy a pleasant, scenic bike along its 3 mile path with connecting paths to Charlestown, Cambridge, and Boston. You can ride on your own or take part in one of Boston’s scenic bike tours through the park.

 3.   Water Sports ( Paddle Boarding, Sailing, Canoeing & Kayaking)

Charles River Canoe and Kayak located in Cambridge offers seasonal kayak, canoe and paddle board rentals for an hourly fee. You can also get a seasonal membership to Community Boating Inc., located right on the Esplanade, and enjoy sailing and kayaking throughout the summer.

 4.    Exercise Course

The Exercise Course provides basic outdoor gym equipment for the benefit of park visitors. Course includes equipment for body weight exercises such as pull ups as well as equipment for stretching. It is located by the Silber Way Footbridge between the Mass Ave. and BU Bridge.

 5.    Running and Jogging

As the cities most used running path, the Esplanade is open to runners and joggers of all levels. The Healthy Heart Trail on the Esplanade begins at the Lee Pool parking lot, is 1.5 miles long, and has an easy activity level designation. For runners seeking more distance, connecting paths continue into Cambridge and Boston. You can also take part in group runs with local organizations like Boston Road Runners and Marathon Sports Run Club.

 6.    Tennis Courts

Located at Charlesbank Park, the tennis courts include four lighted courts. Courts are open to the public and available on a first come first serve basis.

 7.    Kite Flying

Kite flying is permitted on the Esplanade where there are large, open landscapes away from trees. Be sure not to leave any string behind that could entangle the park’s wildlife.

 8.    Fishing

During the warmer months of the year, the Esplanade provides various opportunities to catch and release fish along the Charles River.