My first trip to beantown was a solo one.
It was also one I'll hold dear for the rest of my life. It was early in the 2017 MLB season and the Cubs, fresh off of their World Series Championship, were scheduled to play the Red Sox. I figured, if there was a time to visit Fenway, it would be while my Cubbies are visiting.
In addition to the games, Theo Epstein was going to visiting his old stomping grounds, while putting on his 'Hot Stove, Cool Music' concert. This annual event for his charity, Foundation To Be Named Later, helps raise money to develop youth's education, leadership and health. And this year, it was featuring Eddie Vedder as the headliner, in a dive bar that maybe could fit 300 people.
I knew Boston was loaded with American History, but I feel I was undersold on the sheer beauty of the town. I had tickets for a night game at Fenway, so decided to walk around with my camera pretty much all morning and afternoon to really soak in the city. The spring colors were in bloom throughout the parks, and the masonry and detailed craftmanship buildings and residences are astonishing. I must admit, I always thought Bostonians were a little over-zealous with how much they loved their town, but I slowly began to appreciate all of the things that represent them, and it justifies their pride.
I was also very impressed the the amount of diversity I saw in the city. Still on my walk, I randomly passed by Japan Festival in the Boston Commons that featured live music, authentic Japanese food, and cosplay; followed by a Greek Independence Day Parade on Boylston Street, commemorating Greece's march to freedom on March 25th, 1821.
I made my way back to the AirBnB (sleeping on a girl's pull-out bed near Fenway) and got ready for the game. There was a definite buzz in the air, as the stadium was filled with probably 30% Cubs fans. If there was any hostility in those proud Bostonians, it definitely came out during the game. Heckling left and right, people getting into fist fights, ejections, etc. I simply kept to myself and had a beer next to my lips for the duration of the game so I wouldn't get involved. I consider myself pretty level-headed but when it comes to Chicago sports, I tend to get pretty protective. More importantly, I wanted to enjoy my experienced at the ballpark. Wrigley Field and Fenway Park are two of baseballs most historic stadiums, and just to be present there felt like an honor. I will say, the stadium was very impressive for how old it is, and had an "at-home" feel to it. I intend on coming back soon.
After the game ended I walked straight to Paradise Rock Club where the concert was being held, just over a mile from the stadium. In addition to the wonderful musical acts, the event was emceed by Mike O'Malley and offered great banter in between sets with fun audience interaction. Many former players, personalities and musicians like Bernie Williams, Jackie MacMullan, Peter Gammons and John Stirratt were all featured as well. (Bernie Williams is a fantastic guitarist). I would say the highlight of the night though was Eddie Vedder's set. To say him and Theo Epstein had a few backstage might be an understatement, but his set sounded good, and kept him light with the audience. The show finished probably close to 2am, but not before Theo Epstein came on out stage with Eddie, holding the 2016 World Series Trophy the Cubs had won a few months prior, and he let it crowd surf amongst the audience. Although, I wasn't able to get my hand on it, I was able to witness when someone actually dropped it and return it to the stage with minimal damage. Great time all-around. Boston, until next time...I'm comin' home, baby.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
RECOMMENDATIONS
Never leave home without the proper music to accompany. -like pairing wine w/ dinner- The playlist below was built specifically for this itinerary.
Not For You - Pearl Jam
Debaser - Pixies
Don't Know What It Means - Tedeschi Trucks Band
Shanty - The Bright Light Social Hour
Junk Bond Trader - Elliott Smith
Time Out Of Mind - Steely Dan
If This Is It - Huey Lewis & The News
Voices Carry - 'Til Tuesday
Ah! Leah! - Donnie Iris
Bottle of Blues - Beck
Angry Eyes - Kenny Loggins
Cinnamon Girl - Neil Young
Anyday - Derek & The Dominos
Anagram - Young The Giant
Foreplay/Long Time - Boston
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