Boston Celebrates 13th Annual One Boston Day with Volunteer Events and Acts of Kindness

Residents and visitors are encouraged to participate in service projects, neighborhood cleanups, and life-saving training to honor the resilience of the city.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:06pm

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The city of Boston is gearing up to celebrate the 13th annual One Boston Day on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, honoring the resilience and community spirit that emerged in the aftermath of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. The day will feature volunteer opportunities, neighborhood cleanups, free 'Stop the Bleed' training sessions, and encouragement for residents to perform individual acts of kindness throughout the city.

Why it matters

One Boston Day has become an important annual tradition that brings the community together to reflect on the tragedy of the 2013 bombing while also celebrating the city's strength, compassion, and resilience in the face of adversity. The events and volunteer activities provide meaningful ways for both residents and visitors to get involved and make a positive impact.

The details

The City of Boston and partner organizations are offering several ways for people to participate in One Boston Day and related events. Volunteer projects will be hosted by city departments on April 15 and in the days leading up to Marathon Monday. A youth and family neighborhood cleanup is scheduled for Saturday, April 18 at Franklin Park Playstead. Free virtual 'Stop the Bleed' training sessions will be held on April 15 to teach life-saving bleeding control techniques. Residents are also encouraged to perform individual acts of kindness in their communities throughout the day and week.

  • One Boston Day will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.
  • A youth and family neighborhood cleanup is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 9 a.m. in Franklin Park Playstead.
  • Free virtual 'Stop the Bleed' training sessions will be held on April 15, 2026 at 12 p.m. and 6 p.m.

The players

Mayor Michelle Wu

The mayor of Boston who released a statement encouraging residents to participate in One Boston Day activities.

Bill Richard

The founder of a foundation created in honor of his son, Martin, who was killed in the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing.

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What they’re saying

“I hope everyone will join their neighbors today in honoring those we lost and celebrating the love that makes Boston a home for everyone.”

— Mayor Michelle Wu

“As spring arrives in Boston each year, we are reminded of the hope and spirit of our city.”

— Bill Richard, Founder, Martin Richard Foundation

What’s next

The annual Boston Marathon Fan Expo will take place on Friday, April 18, 2026 at the Hynes Convention Center, bringing together all the excitement and preparations for the 130th running of the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 20, 2026.

The takeaway

One Boston Day has become an important annual tradition that brings the community together to reflect on the city's resilience in the face of tragedy while also celebrating the compassion and kindness that defines Boston. Through volunteer projects, neighborhood cleanups, life-saving training, and individual acts of goodwill, residents and visitors can honor the victims of the 2013 bombing and the spirit of the city.