Five Things You Need to Know Today: April 26

1. Boston College Arts Festival. The will kick off today at noon and will run through Saturday on the . The festival will include more than 80 events in theatre, music, fashion, art and more.

2. Student Directing Festival. The Student Directing Festival will start tonight at 7:30 p.m. and feature three productions directed by local South Stage stars. Shows will run tomorrow and Saturday at the same time. Tickets are $8 and are available online.

3. Celebrating Israeli independence. The Consulate General of Israel to New England will celebrate 64 years of Israeli independence this evening with a reception and event at Congregation Mishkan Tefila in Chestnut Hill. The reception will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. feature a number of elected officials, political candidates, Gov. Deval Patrick and more than 1,000 guests. A speaking program will run from 8 p.m. - 9 p.m. 

4. Autism in Today's Community. As part of Autism Awareness Month, Advocates of Autism Massachusetts will sponsor a program tonight at the titled Autism in Today's Community; Where We Have Been and Where Are We Going? The program starts at 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. 

5. NewtonSERVES. Interested in helping out your community? NewtonSERVES is still looking for volunteers for Sunday's day of community service. There will be a number of projects across the city from schools to parks to non-profit organizations. Check out the Newton Community Pride website for more information.