Fenway for Free: Out of the Park Brings Red Sox Fun to the Common

PROVIDED BY THE HIGHLAND STREET FOUNDATION

The Red Sox might be on the road this weekend, but their fans can still experience some of the best of Fenway come Sunday. That’s because Out of the Park will once again show the game on a big screen for free in Boston Common. Cheer on the Red Sox for (hopefully) a big win against the Minnesota Twins while also enjoying the perks of a visit to Fenway, such as free food and family-friendly entertainment.

Out of the Park is the result of a collaboration between Highland Street Foundation, the Red Sox, and the city of Boston. “Some of our trustees were meeting with Mayor Walsh, and they started talking about the incredible parks we have in our city, and how great it is when we can bring the community together in the parks,” says Noreen McMahon, senior director of programs for Highland Street. The event premiered in 2014. This is its third year.

With Out of the Park, you can “get the feeling of being at Fenway Park, but in your own community,” McMahon says. Indeed, this event is the whole package. Visitors will get to meet beloved mascot Wally and his younger sister Tessie, listen to the Hot Tamales marching band, enjoy a free ride on the Common’s carousel, or get their faces painted. If the kids are looking to get active, try out one of the baseball-inspired games—the stealing home challenge and running the bases are two favorites. Plus, free food: popcorn, Hoodsie cups, slush, cotton candy, and of course classic Fenway Franks.

PROVIDED BY THE HIGHLAND STREET FOUNDATION

The goal of Out of the Park is to bring a quintessentially Boston experience—watching a Red Sox game at Fenway Park—to individuals who may not normally attend games. The hosts invite community organizations like Boys and Girls Clubs, food pantries, and other local nonprofits.

McMahon’s favorite part: “I think it’s the feeling that you get when you’re surrounded mostly by people you don’t know, but for that moment, baseball brings everyone together.”

Join Wally and the rest of the Red Sox Nation this Sunday starting at 1:10 p.m. to feel the community spirit. Go Sox!