4TH ANNUAL BWB FAMILY REUNION


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Let Us Know That You're Coming!

4TH ANNUAL BWB FAMILY REUNION

We're taking over the Lawn on D again on Saturday, July 20th at 12:00 PM! Join us for a day-long celebration of Black experiences, community, and culture.
 
Inspired by traditional family gatherings, we’re bringing together Black Bostonians from across neighborhoods, hometowns, and generations to experience joy and create memories with friends and family.
 
This year’s theme is “Back in the Day, celebrating the Black culture, games, and community of the ‘80s, and ‘90s. We will take you back to all that reminds us of the good ol’ days - So pull out your Reeboks with the straps and your throwback gear, and celebrate with Family, as we’ve curated a summer day that promises to be a crowd-pleaser for everyone!
 
Count on all your favorite Black-folk classics making a return this year, from line-dancing to epic Double Dutch showdowns and intense Spades tournaments to face painting fun for all ages. We will also have live music that'll get you on your feet, BWB member exclusives, and innovative showcases of local vendors and artists from the community.
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Featured Programming

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Live Music

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Spades Tournament

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Line Dancing

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Double Dutch

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Face Painting

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Balloon Animals

What is the schedule of events?

Here is the BWB Family Reunion program, reflective of entertainment, games, and fun throughout the day. Please note, all times are subject to change. Here’s a list of confirmed hosts, DJs, and activities to date:

Family Zen Garden

  • Open Bubble Zone (12 - 5 pm)
  • Face Painting by About Face + Radiant Jasmin (12 - 5 pm)
  • Emerald City Plant Shop, Pot Your Own Plant Station (12 - 5 pm)
  • Tie-Dye Shirt Making by Modern Party Art (12 - 2  pm)
  • Throwback Paint Sesh by Modern Party Art (2:30 - 4:30 pm)
  • Gerly’s Ice Cream (12 - 5 pm)

MeetBoston Music Stage 1: Pavilion on D                                                           

  • Live Music Sets curated by Tim V. Hall (12 - 4 pm) 
  • Hella Black Trivia with Jeff Rogers (4 - 4:30 pm) 
  • Shoot Your Shot BWB Speed Dating with Courtney Boston (4:35 - 5:10 pm)
  • Karaoke (5:15 - 6 pm) 
  • DJ Set with DJ Real P (4 - 9 pm) 

Signature Pavilion 

  • Roll Bounce Seaport Curated by Chez Vous Skating + Swerve x BWB (1 - 8:45 pm)
  • Wear Your Crown x BWB Curated by Naomi Monique LLC (1:00 - 3:15 pm)
  • Wear Your Crown x BWB Mobile Salon Services (4:15 - 5:45 pm) 

MeetBoston Stage 2 & Lawn A 

  • Stage 2 Hosted by Danielle “Hotsauce” Johnson of SPARKfm
  • YMCA Greater Boston Family Game Area Games and Double Dutch (12 - 5 pm) 
  • DJ Set by DJ Lady Ly (12 - 1 pm)
  • Yoga by Yoga Mike of 33 Degree Yoga (1 - 1:30 pm) 
  • AFRO-BEATS + SOCA DANCE by OrigiNation Cultural Arts Center (1:45 - 2:15 pm)
  • Line Dancing by Boston Rhythm Riders Part 1 (2:30 - 3pm)
  • Divine 9: Greek Strolling Competition (3:15 - 3:45 pm) 
  • OLD SKOOL HIP-HOP CLASS by OrigiNation Cultural Arts Center  (4 - 4:30 pm)
  • Line Dancing by Boston Rhythm Riders Part 2  (4:45 - 5:15 pm) 
  • Sunset Wind Down Stretch by Yoga Mike 33 Degree Yoga  (5:30 - 6 pm) 

Lawn B 

  • Giant Lawn Games + Board Games on the Lawn (12 - 8 pm) 
  • Spades Tournament hosted by Mz MoPhila (3 - 5 pm) 

Lawn C

  • Face Painting by About Face + Radiant Jasmin (12 - 5 pm)
  • Balloon Animals by A Dawning Xperience LLC  (12 - 5 pm)
  • The Slushy Lady Boston (12 - 9 pm)
 
What time should we arrive?

Peak activities are from 12 - 4 pm. You don't want to miss out so plan your day accordingly. See our schedule for details.

Are there activities should I sign up for in advance?

Don’t miss out on our activities that require sign-up ahead of time. Here are some key times for sign-ups for our popular activities with limited slots. Be sure to sign up for these activities at our information tent onsite.

  • Wear Your Crown, Natural Hair Care Workshops: 12 - 1 pm 
  • Spades Tournament: 12 - 2 pm 
  • Karaoke Sign Up: 12 - 3:30 pm
How should I dress?

BWB 4th Annual Family Reunion is a casual summer event, and be sure to dress for the weather.  Don’t forget about our “Back in the Day” theme.  Get your best 80s -90s fit ready! 

What happens if it rains?

This is a rain-or-shine event! Come prepared to hang out in the rain or create your own shade from the sun. In case of severe weather, we will make the necessary announcements. The safety of our patrons is our utmost priority. We will monitor the weather closely and share updates via social media and onsite.

Is there parking available?

Parking Near Lawn on D:
RSVP'd guests will have access to free parking at the convention center lot (BCEC). Simply follow our Map of Access to the South Lot at BCEC from the Regional Highway System to easily find your way.

We recommend arriving early as the parking lot has a capacity of 1,300. Once you've parked, a convenient shuttle service will transport you from the lot to the entrance of the Lawn on D. Metered parking is also available throughout the area. 

How do I get to Lawn on D if taking the MBTA?

Avoid Parking Congestion, Take the T:

Take the Red Line, SL4, or SL5 to South Station. From South Station, take SL1, SL2, or SL3 outbound to World Trade Center. On arrival, go upstairs and follow signs for World Trade Center Ave. From World Trade Center Ave, head southwest towards Summer Street. Take a left onto Summer Street and then make a right onto D Street. Once on D Street, walk until you see us!

Where do we go when we arrive? 

When you arrive, there will be two lines for check-in: one for the general public and a VIP entrance for our Boston While Black members and supportive Sponsors. Each guest will go through security to ensure everyone's safety. Please limit the number of personal items you bring to ensure a speedy check-in process.

Will there be food?

Of course! We have some delicious eats from local favorites from street food, spiced flavors, and sweet treats. Enjoy our Amazon Eats area featuring: 

  • Gourmet Kreyol is Boston’s only Haitian cuisine food truck, blending tropical spices and roots with the complexity of French cuisine.
  • Fresh Food Generation combines New England ingredients with bold Caribbean and Southern flavors, focusing on seasonal produce and meats from small regional family farms to create enticing and fresh meals.
  • Lord Dawgz offers Latin-Soul cuisine, featuring gourmet hotdogs and plant-based sausages.
  • Suya Joint offers authentic West African cuisine, perfect for local Africans longing for a taste of home and non-Africans eager to enjoy an exotic and flavorful dining experience. Their menu features classic West African dishes such as Moi Moi, Jollof Rice, and Beef Suya.
  • Dominican Chimis serves delicious street food, including chimi, a Dominican-style hamburger, and yaroa, which are french fries or a mash of plantain or yuca layered with meat and cheese.
  • Don't miss out on sweet treats from Hot Oven Cookies, Slushy Lady Boston, and Gerly's Ice Cream
Where can I get BWB and Family Reunion Swag?

Come Ready to Shop: BWB will be presenting some amazing swag, from bucket hats to crossbody bags and personalized t-shirts.

What can I bring to Lawn on D?
  • Good Vibes

  • Friends & Family of All Ages

  • Yoga Mat

  • Bags under 20” x 20” x 10”

  • An individual blanket (maximum size 6’x8’)

  • Reasonably sized strollers

  • Low-seat chairs (under 30"H)

  • Umbrellas (in case of rain)

  • Cameras

What should I not bring to Lawn on D?

  • Harassment or hatred of any kind. The BWB Family Reunion is rooted in Blackness and belonging. All are welcome regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender presentation, sexual orientation, age, body size, disability, appearance, religion, citizenship, or pregnancy.

  • Outside food or beverages. Plenty of food and beverage options will be available for purchase.

  • Pop-up tents, coolers, grills, or glass containers.

  • Skateboards or bicycles. 

  • Smoking items, even vapes.

  • External alcohol. Beer and wine can be purchased onsite for those who are of age. 

  • Illegal substances will not be allowed.

  • Firearms, noise-making devices, laser pointers, knives, box cutters, tools, pepper spray, mace, or any items that could be used as weapons are not prohibited.

  • Drones are prohibited and constitute a misdemeanor under Massachusetts Aeronautics Commission and FAA regulations.

Interested in joining the BWB family?

On-site membership sign-ups are open! Visit our team in the BWB area during the event for more details and to become a part of our vibrant community.  

Our Sponsors

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