What are you thankful for Boston?

The holidays are supposed to filled with love and light, but with the endless commitments, shopping lists and Instagram-fueled-onslaught of forced merriment, it can actually be one of the most stressful parts of the year. One of the best ways to combat the seasonal one-upping we all tend to subconsciously subject ourselves to, why not take a step back and think about all the things we have to be grateful for already?

And to get the gratitude juices flowing, we asked a few local tastemakers what they were thankful for—here is what they said:

Amy Traverso, Food Editor at Yankee Magazine

This year, I'm particularly thankful to live in Boston, where our restaurant community perseveres, despite everything, and only gets better and more collaborative over time. Beyond Boston, I'm grateful that a short car ride can get me to a waterfront lobster roll at Canteen in Provincetown or a raclette feast at Tops'l Farm in Waldoboro, Maine. Lastly, I'm grateful that this city is a draw for visiting family and friends who, of course, are the most important ones of all.

Derek Zagami, Lifestyle Reporter at NBC

I’m thankful for being able to celebrate the holidays with some new special people in my life, also being able to just take a break for a minute and laugh and enjoy the moment.  

Emily Chan, Food Influencer

I am grateful for the constant growth and evolution of Boston’s restaurant scene. I have explored different areas of the city this year that I had not visited much in the past! 

Dave Wedge, NYT bestselling author

I'm most thankful for family and friends but ski season is a close second! I'm also thankful for our amazing city, Cape Cod beaches, all the Boston characters who keep me telling stories and of course, the Boston Celtics (#Banner18!)

Marwa Osman, Boston Lifestyle Influencer 

I am extra grateful for community this year. After the past couple years, social connection and finding a sense of belonging is something we have all been craving. I am so appreciative that Boston so much to offer — different communities , events to help us meet people and opportunities to follow our passions and do something new. 

Michael Floreak, Food Writer at the Boston Globe

Although summer produce is great, I am thankful for New England late fall farmers markets. I love the autumn rainbow of purple, orange, and white cauliflower, towering stalks of Brussels sprouts, apples of every kind, and king of them all: the neon green, Dr. Seuss-worthy, fractal miracle that is Romanesco. This final explosion of amazing food produced by local farmers almost makes the approach of another New England winter tolerable. 

Katie McAleer, Boston Lifestyle Influencer 

I’m grateful Boston has such an amazing arts and theater scene. From classics like the Boston Ballet and Broadway in Boston to new Immersive Art exhibits at the Lighthouse art space and new music venues like Roadrunner. Boston has so much to offer!  

Joey Calcavecchia, Jr, Food Influencer

I am thankful that small businesses are able to get back on their feet and get the support they deserve through their customers. 

Sarah Connell Sanders, Writer & author

I am thankful for our incredible public libraries that offer museum passes, eBooks, 3D printing, podcasting equipment, and so much more.