On Saturday, Watertown will celebrate the 250th anniversary of a historic first for our nation which happened in town back in 1776. Join the Library’s outdoor World Cup Final watch party on Sunday. Tour the historic Gore Mansion on Friday and learn about chamber pots and hygiene in the early 1800s. Stop by the Armenian Museum of America to see a pair of art exhibits. Kids can craft at the Library on Friday.
TREATY DAY 250
Saturday, July 18, 2-5 p.m.
Mosesian Center for the Arts, 321 Arsenal St.
A celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the United States’ first treaty, which took place right here in Watertown, is planned for Saturday. The treaty was signed by the U.S. and the Mi’qmak and Maliseet tribes to fight together against the British, as well as other agreements. The Mosesian Center for the Arts will host the event that is sponsored by the Historical Society of Watertown and the City of Watertown. Hear traditional drumming, see indigenous art and artifacts, find out more about the treaty and how it still has impact in 2026. There will be a color guard featuring Watertown, Mi’qmak and Maliseet veterans.
More information: Click here
WORLD CUP WATCH PARTY
Sunday, July 19, 2:40 p.m.
Saltonstall Park, 149 Main St.
Join us on the Saltonstall Field for an outdoor, family-friendly watch party of the World Cup final match. Bring your chairs and picnic blankets. There will be a sign making station if you’d like to color a sign to cheer on your team! The anticipated start time for the event is 2:40 p.m., and we’ll be able to watch on an outdoor LED screen until the game wraps up. Bring sunscreen!
Hosted by the Watertown Free Public Library. (Thank you to the Recreation Department!)
This watch party is an independent viewing event and is not sponsored by or otherwise affiliated with FIFA or the World Cup tournament.
CHAMBER POTS & HYGIENE EVENING TOUR
Friday, July 17, 7-8 p.m.
Gore Place, 52 Gore St., Waltham (Entrance)
Join us for an evening tour of the 1806 Mansion at Gore Place. all about chamber pots and hygiene in the early 19th century, a quirky but fascinating subject! You’ll see the graceful Great Stairs, the lovely Oval Withdrawing Room, the Peacock Parlor, the Great Hall, the bedchambers, sitting rooms, and more. The style and quality of the furnishings, the many Boston-built pieces, and the fabulous personal touches make this one of New England’s best historic house tours.
More information: Click here
ART OF ARSHILE GORKY and DIANE MARKOSIAN
Friday to Sunday, July 17-19, 12-6 p.m.
Armenian Museum of America, 65 Main St.
Catch two special exhibits at the Armenian Museum of America. Arshile Gorky (c. 1904–1948) played a pivotal role in shaping modern art in America. A self-taught painter, his work helped usher in Abstract Expressionism, the first internationally recognized American art movement and a lasting influence on artists worldwide. This exhibition focuses on Gorky’s relationships and sense of community, from his humble beginnings in Watertown as Vostanik Manoug Adoian to his later life as a celebrated artist.
Father traces an emotional journey through photography, video, and archival materials, exploring themes of loss, identity, and belonging. The Armenian Museum of America is proud to present Father, a deeply personal and visually compelling project by internationally acclaimed artist Diana Markosian. This exhibition marks the U.S. debut of the work, offering an intimate exploration of family, memory, and identity. The exhibit runs through Sept. 13.
More information: Click here
CRAFTERNOON FOR KIDS
Friday, July 17, 4-5 p.m.
Watertown Free Public Library, 123 Main St.
Stop by the Children’s Room for some casual, creative crafting! For kids ages 5-11. No registration required.