School Vacation Programming

Looking for fun things to do during school vacation?

 
A Ranger showing an arts and crafts activity to visitors of a museum.
Ranger Veronica showing visitors an activity at the Bunker Hill Museum

NPS Photo/Matthew Dwyer

The National Parks of Boston is a great place to visit and enjoy FREE, drop-in activities that are designed for youth and families. Past programs offered have included Ropemaking, “Riveting” a ribbon bracelet, Button making, and more!

See below for updated information regarding family-friendly programming during the upcoming school vacation period. You can also follow us on Facebook (Boston National Historical Park) to learn about these and other programming events. And remember to check our Plan Your Visit menu for information about operating hours, directions to park locations, and safety tips. Hope to see you soon!

 

Upcoming School Vacation Programming:

Free and open to all!

February 18 & 20, 10am - 12pm

Sound-Powered Telephone

Location: Charlestown Navy Yard Visitor Center

During World War II, the U.S. Navy was looking for a reliable method of internal communication should a ship lose power. The result was the invention of the Sound-powered Telephone, a device that generates energy by the sound of a user’s voice! Come try out one of these telephones and learn about how they helped sailors to do their jobs.

February 19 & 21, 11am - 1pm

Candle making

Location: Faneuil Hall - Great Hall or "Find Your Park" Space in lower level

Before the advent of electricity, an important trade during the colonial period was candle making. In larger towns, a candle maker was known as “chandler” and might also produce other products such as soap. Make your own beeswax candle with us and learn how to master the techniques of this trade.

 

Won't be able to join us for this programming? See below for other ways you can explore our park.

 
Child holding up a Junior Ranger book in front of his face and looking through it.
Junior Ranger Program

Explore Boston's revolutionary past and discover fascinating facts about the events, people, and places with the Junior Ranger Handbook.

Coloring sheet of Paul Revere's House
At-Home Activities

Want to color Faneuil Hall green? Or send your friend messages with signal flags? Dive into the various activities you can do from home!

Two kids standing side-by-side, one holds up a pass card, another has a stuffed bison.
Every Kid Outdoors

Learn how 4th Graders and their guests get free access to Federal Lands and Waters.

Last updated: February 13, 2026

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Boston National Historical Park
21 Second Ave

Charlestown, MA 02129

Phone:

617 242-5601

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