Esplanade Association Awards

Established by the Esplanade Association in 2004, the Charles Eliot Vision Award and Arther Fiedler Achievement Award are named for two historic figures fundamental to the Esplanade’s creation and animation.

Landscape architect Charles Eliot (1859-1897) not only conceived of the early plans for the Charles River Esplanade but also envisioned Greater Boston’s entire metropolitan park system and the precursor to the Commonwealth’s Department of Conservation and Recreation which oversees all of Massachusetts’ State Parks, including the Esplanade. His vision for conserving natural landscapes inspired the world’s first public trust for “beautiful and historic places.” Likewise, Arthur Fiedler (1894-1979) brought annual live music to millions on the Esplanade in his five decades as Conductor of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops. His 1976 July 4th Concert at the Hatch Shell aired to millions more as part of the Nation’s Bicentennial Coverage, putting the Esplanade on the world map through his artistry. Both Eliot and Fiedler’s contributions are memorialized with sculptures on the Esplanade.

The Eliot and Fiedler Awards are conferred only occasionally. When given are announced and celebrated at the Esplanade Association’s annual Moondance Gala.