As the blossoms reach full bloom this May, Jamaica Plain’s parks, libraries, and community centers are coming alive with a fresh slate of programming designed for the neighborhood’s youngest residents. From historic community festivals celebrating local activism to specialized workshops in technical arts and early-literacy sessions, the next four weeks offer a wealth of opportunities for kids to engage, create, and play. Whether your family is looking to fly kites in Franklin Park or master a new medium at the Eliot School, the local spring calendar is packed with activities that foster community connection and developmental growth.
Lilac Sunday at the Arboretum
The Arnold Arboretum invites families to its annual Lilac Sunday on May 10 from 10a.m. to 3p.m.. This is the only day of the year when picnicking is permitted on the grounds, making it a favorite tradition for local families to gather near the lilacs on Bussey Hill Road. Kids can participate in hands-on environmental programming, watch local artists create massive chalk drawings on the pavement, and follow self-guided tours via the “Expeditions” mobile app, available in English, Spanish, and Mandarin.
Kites and Bikes Take Over Franklin Park
The 50-year tradition of the Franklin Park Kite & Bike Festival returns on Saturday, May 16, from 12p.m. to 4p.m.. Held at the Franklin Park Playstead, this free event allows children to make their own kites or bring one to fly in the spring breeze. The afternoon includes a bicycle repair station by REI, free helmets for kids, and local food trucks. Organizers encourage biking or taking the #16 bus from Forest Hills to reduce traffic in the park.
Last Call: JP Children’s Soccer Starts April 29
The spring season for JP Children’s Soccer kicks off Wednesday, April 29, at English High School. While primary registration has closed, late registration remains open through May 2 for families still looking to join. The league, which serves children ages 3.5 to 6.5, focuses on 45-to-60-minute weekly practices on Wednesdays, Saturdays, or Sundays. Organizers are also putting out a final call for volunteer “activity leaders” to ensure all teams have enough support.
Books and Bargains: Spring Library Sale
The Friends of the Jamaica Plain Branch Library will hold their annual Spring Book Sale from May 7 to May 9. This community fundraiser is an excellent opportunity for young readers to build their home libraries with affordable titles. Sale hours are Thursday from 5p.m. to 8p.m., Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5p.m., and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4p.m. The JP Branch library is located at 30 South St. in JP.
Roll for Initiative: D&D Club at the JP Library
Having Started on Thursday, April 18, the Jamaica Plain Branch Library continues its Dungeons & Dragons Club for youth aged 9 to 12 every Thursday. Led by instructor Jade Arrowood, the club meets from 4p.m. to 5:30 p.m.. The library provides all necessary materials, including character sheets and dice, so no prior experience is required for new adventurers to join the campaign. To register, email [email protected]
Healthy Kids Running Series Kick-off
Young athletes from Pre-K through 8th grade can lace up for the Healthy Kids Running Series, beginning Sunday, May 17, at Parkman Playground. This five-week program features age-appropriate distances ranging from 50-yard dashes for toddlers to a full mile for middle schoolers. The series also includes a “Challenger Division” adaptive 75-yard race for children with disabilities.
Workshops at
the Eliot School
The Eliot School of Fine & Applied Arts has several youth sessions starting soon. On Sunday, May 3, artist Zahirah Nur Truth leads “Blooming Love,” a Mother’s Day gift-making workshop for families. A four-session “Kids Studio” for drawing and painting for ages 9–12 begins May 9. Additionally, a new six-week “Outdoor Mosaic Tiles” class starts on May 16, where students will design and assemble their own handcrafted garden stepping stones.
Bilingual Stories and Crafty Afternoons
Local library branches are offering recurring weekly sessions for early learners this May. The Connolly Branch hosts “Bilingual Story Time” in Spanish and English with Láura Macías every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m.. Meanwhile, the JP Branch offers “After School Crafts” every Wednesday at 4 p.m. for children aged 6 to 12, and “Pajama Story Time” every Monday at 5 p.m., featuring stories, songs, and parachute play.
Youth Pride Celebration
On Saturday, May 16, the Massachusetts Youth Pride celebration will take place from 9a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This youth-led event features a parade and a festival at City Hall Plaza, including a live stage show produced entirely by LGBTQ+ youth. The festival portion, which includes a resource fair and community partners, officially begins at 11a.m. for those who prefer to skip the march.