The following announcement was provided by Russell Cooperative Preschool:
A Watertown spring tradition returns this month as Russell Cooperative Preschool hosts its annual Spring Ramble on Saturday, May 16, on the grounds of First Parish of Watertown at 35 Church Street.
The family-friendly celebration will feature live entertainment, crafts, outdoor games, music, and community fun.
The event begins at 11 a.m. with a free public performance of Sleeping Beauty by Tanglewood Marionettes. The nationally recognized marionette troupe will present a 40-minute adaptation of the classic fairy tale featuring handcrafted puppets, colorful sets, and storytelling designed for young audiences and families. Following the puppet show, Russell’s Spring Ramble moves outdoors from noon to 2 p.m., where families can enjoy games, crafts, treats, and children’s activities on the lawn, while taking in the festive energy of Watertown Porchfest, with a slate of musical acts organized by First Parish of Watertown.
The First Parish Porchfest stage will feature a full afternoon lineup, beginning with the family-friendly band Our Neighborhood ROCKS!! from noon to 1 p.m. Additional performers include the Boston Arabic Music Ensemble from 1 to 2 p.m., The Mighty Silverbacks from 2 to 3:30 p.m., Eastern Souvenirs from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Tainted Horizon from 4:30 to 5 p.m. Weird Frenz will close out the third-annual Watertown Porchfest at First Parish from 5 to 6 p.m.
Organizers say the event is designed to bring neighbors together and celebrate the arrival of spring through creativity, music, and play.
Whether families come for the puppets, the Porchfest performances, or simply an afternoon outdoors with friends and neighbors, the Spring Ramble is a welcoming community celebration for all ages.
Russell Cooperative Preschool’s 2026 Spring Ramble is supported in part by a grant from the Watertown Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. This program is also supported by Watertown Savings Bank.
About Russell Cooperative Preschool
Located in the heart of Watertown Square, Russell Cooperative Preschool is a play-based cooperative school offering a nurturing environment where children ages 2.9 to 5 can grow, explore, and build confidence. At Russell, parents and teachers work side by side, creating a rich, supportive learning community. The preschool is guided by the philosophy that young children learn best through play, and its cooperative model fosters not just student development, but meaningful family involvement. You can learn more about the school’s mission and programs at russellpreschool.org.