Dorchester Park, our own nationally recognized landmark in Lower Mills, will celebrate the 125th year with a festive gala on Friday, Sept. 9 beginning at 7 p.m.

Set in the park under a festive tent, the event will feature music by Eastside Horns, dancing, a short auction and refreshments.

“This is the perfect occasion for friends, relatives and former neighbors to get together,” said organizer Richard O’Mara, chairman of the Dorchester Park Association (DPA).

Proceeds will be used for the many park events sponsored by the DPA, including park cleanups and plantings, the spring egg hunt and the classic car show and an old-fashioned Family Fun Day on Sept. 11.

Another goal of the DPA is to bring water back to the park. With water available, larger shrubs and trees could be planted such as blueberry and black raspberry bushes and fruit and nut trees. Children visiting the park can then see and sample fresh food.

Tickets are $90 each or two for $175 and are available at the DPA website, dotpark.org or at Cedar Grove Gardens on 911 Adams St. in Dorchester.

The Annual Antique and Exotic Car Show and Family Fun Day will cap off this summer’s celebration of Dorchester Park’s 125th anniversary on Sunday, Sept. 11. This free day has become an exciting community event over the past several years, and there promises to be something for everyone of all ages to enjoy.

The car show is held on the lower field on Adams Street starting at 10 a.m. and continuing until 2 p.m., when awards are given for the best in various categories. Games and activities for all the families start at noon on the upper field and continue to 4 p.m. Food will be available later in the morning and throughout the rest of the day.