Sledders filled Boston Common during Sunday’s snow, even as the city urged residents to stay off roads

A winter storm turned the Common into a gathering point

Boston Common drew steady crowds of sledders on Sunday afternoon as snowfall intensified across the city, with residents and visitors using the park’s slopes for sleds, saucers, and improvised cardboard rides. Visibility in the Back Bay skyline fluctuated as snow bands moved through, while plows and other city vehicles were among the few cars seen along nearby streets.

The activity unfolded as Boston entered a declared snow emergency that included a citywide parking ban on designated snow emergency routes beginning at 8 a.m. Sunday. City officials urged residents to limit travel, use public transportation if necessary, and keep roadways clear to allow for plowing and emergency response.

What the city ordered and what closures followed

In preparation for the storm, Boston announced a series of operational changes affecting travel and daily schedules. The city said municipal buildings would close on Sunday and Monday, and Boston Public Schools and central offices would be closed Monday. Extracurricular activities scheduled for Sunday and Monday were also canceled.

• A snow emergency began at 8 a.m. Sunday, January 25, 2026.
• A parking ban took effect at the same time on posted snow emergency arteries, with towing authorized on major routes.
• Boston City Hall and other municipal buildings were set to be closed Sunday and Monday.
• Boston Public Schools were closed Monday, January 26, with related activities canceled.

Snowfall rates rose as public messaging emphasized safety

As the storm strengthened, public safety messaging focused on reducing unnecessary driving and keeping streets accessible for plows and emergency vehicles. The city also promoted the use of local services for non-emergency concerns and encouraged residents to sign up for emergency notifications.

City guidance during the storm emphasized staying home when possible, checking on neighbors, and keeping roadways clear for snow removal operations.

A familiar Boston tradition, under active storm conditions

Sledding on Boston Common is a recurring feature of major snowfalls, with the park’s open terrain and central location drawing families, students, and groups of friends. Sunday’s scenes reflected that pattern: people clustered near the most-used slopes while snow continued to accumulate.

The combination of heavy snowfall, reduced visibility, and emergency parking restrictions underscored the practical limits around such winter recreation. City officials continued to advise residents to plan for restricted travel conditions through the storm window and to allow crews space to clear streets and sidewalks.