For the past six summers, Aeronaut, the beloved Somerville-based brewery, has breathed life into an otherwise unassuming block, transforming it into a vibrant hub of activity with yard games, illuminating lights, music, and a selection of libations. This seasonal beer garden pop-up, situated in Harvard’s Zone 3, has become a cherished tradition, welcoming locals and newcomers alike to savor the spirit of summer.
Zone 3, spanning 267 Western Ave., was conceived in 2015 as an ambitious initiative by Harvard University to invigorate Western Ave through a tapestry of creative programs, engaging events, experimental retail ventures, and captivating public art installations.
As the summer sun sets, the Aeronaut beer garden, nestled within this dynamic zone, emerges as a cherished oasis for community bonding. Over the years, it has grown from its modest beginnings. Michael Theodosiou, a shift lead for Aeronaut, reflects on the journey, stating, “We started off in the parking lot with just a couple of kegs and a jockey box, just serving to the public. Then they gave us this space, and it has evolved.”
The recent weekend marked the final opening of Aeronaut’s Zone 3 beer garden for the summer, drawing visitors old and new. Wellesley College students Greysea McCooe and Juliana Rat Vengeance, fresh arrivals to Boston, made an impromptu decision to explore the Aeronaut beer garden during a bus ride to Cambridge Pizza. Vengeance recounted, “I was like, ‘Oh, that looks cool. Do you want to hop off the bus at the next stop and go check it out?’ So then we did.”
Pamela J. Naab, a professor at Lasell University residing in Brighton, also praised the inviting ambiance of the space, terming it “a great atmosphere.”
Harvard’s extensive presence in Allston, with ownership of roughly a third of the land, has brought forth transformative projects like the Business School campus, the Science and Engineering Complex, and various athletic facilities, further shaping the vibrant character of the neighborhood.
While summer may be drawing to a close, the promise of one more gathering awaits. Aeronaut’s beer garden will return to Zone 3 on October 7th for Oktoberfest, ensuring that the spirit of community and celebration remains alive in this corner of Allston.
