Events INSIDER: May 26 – June 3, 2014

05/26/14 by
Johnny’s Picks
Arunah Hill Stargazing
Stars and constellations don’t look the same on paper, TV, or a computer screen. Come see the real thing, and put your hands on a telescope. Arunah Hill StargazingNotchview, Route 9 Windsor, MA, .
Scooper Bowl Ice Cream Festival
I have only one rule for ice cream: The more, the better. This all-you can-eat fest offers ice cream, frozen yogurt, and sorbet. It’s the biggest event of its type in the world. 12-8pm daily. Scooper Bowl Ice Cream FestivalBoston City Hall Plaza, One City Hall Square Boston, MA, –.
New England Gerbil Show
Watch gerbils compete in ham-track and tube chew races. Judges will choose the best ones. Bring yours and beat the competition, or just check out the various animals on display! 11-5pm. New England Gerbil ShowHoliday Inn Nashua, NH, –.
Scavenger Hunt for a Cure
This ‘Born in Boston’ themed scavenger hunt will keep teams on their toes and full of smiles as they race for bragging rights and a cure. 10am. Scavenger Hunt for a CureBell in Hand Tavern Boston, MA, .
Fresh Pond Day
Celebrate community and sustainability at Fresh Pond Reservation! Lots of booths, live music, and fun for the kids! 11am-3pm. Fresh Pond DayCambridge Water Department Cambridge, MA, .
Dorchester Day Parade
Step out and celebrate Dorchester at the Dot Day Parade! 110 years of celebration can’t be wrong. Dorchester Day ParadeDorchester Avenue Dorchester, MA, .
Ancient and Honorable June Day Parade
Leading up to the election of the Officers and Sergeants of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company, a parade takes place. Don’t let the words ‘ancient’ and ‘honorable’ mislead you, this is a truly moving and patriotic event, if you’re into that. Ancient and Honorable June Day ParadeBoston Common Boston, MA, .
Orange Crate Derby
Prove Newton wrong and show your kid’s gravity powered car is faster than the rest. There are some similar events in New England, but this one is by far the one with the most decent non-morning schedule. 1:30pm. Orange Crate DerbyBayview Avenue Bristol, RI, .
Huck Finn Day
This fishing derby is completed by sack races, hayrides, and a Huck Finn Look-A-Like Contest I love it! Huck Finn DayCrandall Field Ashaway, RI, .
Knight Blades LARP
There’s a kingdom that needs your help, and is paying in gold. Be ready to face a weekend full of dangerous LARPing challenges. Knight Blades LARPYe Olde Common Charlton, MA, –.
Outdoor movies!
Nobody lists more outdoor movies in New England! I track 97 different series with more than 400 shows, and most of them are free! To see them, go to Events INSIDER, select your region on the map, and then scroll all the way to the bottom. more
Outdoor Theatre!
I list more outdoor theatre than anyone else in New England! I track 75 performance series. That’s more than 600 shows, some of which are free! To see them, go to Events INSIDER, select your region on the map, and then scroll all the way to the bottom to see them. more
Outdoor concerts!
Events Insider keeps track of all the outdoor concerts in New England. This is where you find the places and events you cannot miss.To see them, go to Events INSIDER, select your region on the map, and then scroll all the way to the bottom. more
Find 16 New England Regions on Twitter
Hey! I’ve split my Twitter feed into 17 regions so that you can REALLY get just the events close to home, or pick what you like. Please check it out and add me to a ‘Twitter list’ too (google it). Find 16 New England Regions on Twitter All Over, , –.
Also Fun
Ciclismo Classico Bike Travel Film Festival
This year’s film festival features ten films all about biking across the globe. Experience the thrill of the road (or lack thereof!). Ciclismo Classico Bike Travel Film FestivalThe Regent Theatre Arlington, MA, .
Celebration of the Spring
This celebration of spring may just be the most inspirational one around. Enjoy song and dance, even one with garlands! 7:30pm. Celebration of the SpringPerkins School for the Blind Watertown, MA, .
24 Hour Film Race
Amateur directors deliver films that are written, shot and edited in under 24 hours. Then we all get to vote for our favorites. Fun fun fun. 10pm. 24 Hour Film RaceBrattle Theatre Cambridge, MA, –.
Common Boston dParty
Come enjoy a film followed by great discussion, music, food, and fun people. It’s not just a party, it’s a dParty! 5:30-10:30pm. Common Boston dPartyWGBH Studios, One Guest Street Boston, MA, .
MIT Inventions
Many MIT students are known for their contributions to society over the years. Check out what current students have been up to, see their inventions on display. MIT InventionsMIT Museum Boston, MA, –.
Quilters’ Connection Quilt Show
This is the biggest quilting event in New England. All of the 200 quilts are genuine works of art, and most are for sale. Don’t forget to bring your wallet! Quilters' Connection Quilt ShowArsenal Center for the Arts Watertown, MA, –.
Boston Harbor Kayak from Kendall Square
3 hours of paddling through the Charles River Locks. If you’re not familiar with kayaking, a short class will be given before. 2pm. Boston Harbor Kayak from Kendall SquareCharles River Canoe & Kayak, Kendall Square Cambridge, MA, .
Carnaval @ Somerstreets
You get a parade, vendor fair and family friendly entertainment that celebrates the rich cultural diversity of East Somerville. What more could you ask for? 12-4pm. Carnaval @ SomerstreetsEast Broadway Somerville, MA, .
Bike to the Sea Day
Join this bike ride to the beach. After all, it’s summer time and that means everyone should go out and have fun. Meet in Everett and bike to Nahant Beach. There’s a shorter ride for kids. 9am. Bike to the Sea DayMadeline English School Everett, MA, .
Identifying the 25 Most Common Trees in Boston
Can you name and identify the 25 most common trees in Boston? No? Then you should come and learn from Arnold Arboretum. Identifying the 25 Most Common Trees in BostonArnold Arboretum, Hunnewell Building Lawn,125 Arborway Boston, MA, .
AIDS Walk Boston
You can walk, run or just donate to help fight AIDS. It’s good for you, and good for others. AIDS Walk Boston Boston, MA, .
Puppet Showplace Legacy Gala
The Muppets would love to have it this good. Spend an evening enjoying courtyard performances while supporting this 40 year old theater. 6:30-9:30pm. Puppet Showplace Legacy GalaGeorge H. Wightman Mansion Brookline, MA, .
Mini-golf at Gore Place
It’s not often you can play mini-golf and tour a real mansion at the same event. Just try really hard not to break any windows! 10-5pm. Mini-golf at Gore PlaceGore Place Waltham, MA, .
Berkshire International Film Festival
C’mon! A film festival during summer? We’re supposed to be outside! Sigh. Promise you’ll take a walk in the Berkshires between screenings? Berkshire International Film FestivalVarious locations Great Barrington, MA, –.
Cape Cod Maritime Festival
Take a tour in a kayak, explore lighthouses, and learn about the rich maritime history of Cape Cod! There is something for everyone in this month long adventure, from nautical art to boat building. Cape Cod Maritime FestivalCape Cod Museum of Natural History Brewster, MA, –.
Wellfleet Restaurant Week
Enjoy Wellfleet before the summer crowds arrive, both at some of their best restaurants and Saturday night’s bonfire! Wellfleet Restaurant WeekVarious locations Wellfleet, MA, –.
National Women of Color Weekend
P-town is ready to celebrate The Women of Color Weekend! There’s going to be improv, talent shows, and much much more. National Women of Color WeekendVarious locations Provincetown, MA, –.
Big Bugs Bash
You can search for them, dress up like them, even eat them. Bottom line? This whole day is dedicated to bugs. 10am-6pm. Big Bugs BashHeritage Museum & Gardens Sandwich, MA, .
Play in the Park at DeCordova
Play and experiment with art in the outdoor sculpture park at my favorite art museum! You can also make the rounds indoors. Fun for families. Play in the Park at DeCordovaThe DeCordova Sculpture Museum Lincoln, MA, .
Hudson Fest
A duck race is one of the many highlights of this festival. It also boasts a food court, live music performances and a 6K race. Hudson FestSouth Street, Downtown Hudson Hudson, MA, .
Free Summer Weekdays at deCordova
Start the month off on the right foot: free admission to deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum the first Wednesday of each summer month. They have both indoor and outdoor sculptures, a forest trail and much more. It’s one of my favorite museums! Free Summer Weekdays at deCordovadeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, 51 Sandy Pond Rd Lincoln, MA, .
Turner & The Sea
Joseph Mallord William Turner was a man who loved the sea. Whether you already knew that or not, this is your chance to see over 100 of his works of art. 11:30am. Turner & The SeaPeabody Essex Museum Salem, MA, .
Go Out Loud!
Bring your pride to this kickoff celebration, and enjoy the free food, cash bar, performance by Judy Garland, and lots of great people. 12pm. Go Out Loud!The Naumkeag Ordinary Salem, MA, .
Newburyport River Run 1/2 Marathon and Relay
When running long distances, at least you expect some visual candy to bear with the exhausting effort. Luckily for you, this flat course is eye catching. 9am. Newburyport River Run 1/2 Marathon and Relay Newburyport, MA, .
Audubon Nature Festival
Of course all activities are related to nature, so you’ll find walks, talks, and an insect zoo! The feature event is the ‘Eyes on Owls’ show. Audubon Nature FestivalIpswich River Wildlife Sanctuary Hamilton, MA, .
Draft Horse Plow Day and Vintage Base Ball Game
Step back in time to when baseball was Base Ball and teams of horses plowed our fields. Watch an old-time game and get a sense of life on the farm. 11-4pm. Draft Horse Plow Day and Vintage Base Ball GameSpencer-Peirce-Little Farm Newbury, MA, .
Rhythm Run
When you see a race called the Rhythm Run, you expect some music. This race won’t disappoint! Choose from 5k or Fun Run. 9am. Rhythm RunSouth Shore Conservatory Hingham, MA, .
Burger Showdown!
Four burgers go in, and one leaves a champion. Well, actually, all the burgers leave in everyone’s stomach – so in a sense, there are no losers, save a few cows… noon-2pm. Burger Showdown!The Pinehills Plymouth, MA, .
Old Sandwich Road Race
When you think ‘hit the dirt’, it’s rare to really mean it. But this roadrace on a historic road from the days of the Pilgrims will make you believe it with every step! 10am. Old Sandwich Road Race Plymouth, MA, .
Southbridge Fest
Join the people of Southbridge for this annual parade and festival with live music, food, shopping, and even a classic car show. 10-4pm. Southbridge FestTown Common Southbridge, MA, .
Hope Street Festival
Lots of food, tons of bands, a fashion show, and even a beer garden. Hope Street hopes to see you at its festival! 12-6pm. Hope Street FestivalHope Street Providence, RI, .
Taste of Block Island
Block Island is not square, not even a little. Come enjoy the multiple activities available to visitors: Kayaking, live music, Baggo tournaments, farm tours and much more. Taste of Block IslandVarious locations Block Island, RI, –.
Block Island’s Find a Float
Finders keepers! There are 550 Glass Floats in Block Island waiting to be found by their future owners. Will all of them be found this year? It’s up to you! Block Island's Find a Float Block Island, RI, .
International Classic Video Game Tournament
We all know who plays a mean pinball, but who will be crowned king of the arcade? Put your quarters up and find out at this classic tournament! International Classic Video Game TournamentFunspot Family Entertainment Center, Route 3 Laconia, NH, –.
Lupine Festival
Music, museums, tours, and delicious foods are all things complimented by flowers. Celebrate the beautiful Lupine in the mountains of New Hampshire. Lupine FestivalSugar Hill, Route117 Main Street Lincoln, NH, –.
Performance
Review: Into the Woods
Your favorite fairy tale characters will get chewed up and spit out in this epic mashup, will there be a happy ending? Into the WoodsThe Lyric Stage Boston, MA, –.
Review: Carrie the Musical
Carrie the Musical sounds macabre and thrilling! Carrie the MusicalSpeakEasy Stage Company Boston, MA, –.
The Tempest
This performance of a Shakespeare classic gets even better with the addition of magic straight from the secrets of Teller of Penn and Teller! The TempestLoeb Drama Center Cambridge, MA, –.
Shakespeare’s TWELFTH NIGHT
Shakespeare’s classic cross-dressing comedy of mistaken identities is back in town. You’ve got nine nights to catch Twelfth Night, so get to it! Shakespeare's TWELFTH NIGHTThe Ex Cambridge, MA, –.
Review: Abe Lincoln’s Piano
In this one man show, hear Abe Lincoln’s piano relive the life and death of a president who truly changed our country forever. Hershey Felder in Abe Lincoln's PianoEmerson Theatre Boston, MA, –.
Gallo: A fable in music in one act
This unique chamber opera performance might just sweep you off your feet. Seriously. Gallo: A fable in music in one actThe Zack Box Theater at The Boston Conservatory Boston, MA, –.
Smart People
Are we born into stereotypes? This witty and intelligent play explores the idea by exploring the lives of four smart and interesting characters. Smart PeopleSouth End / Calderwood Pavilion at the BCA Boston, MA, –.
Review: Imagining Madoff
A fly on the wall’s dream come true, this show imagines the jailhouse conversations of a Ponzi schemer and a Holocaust survivor. Imagining MadoffBoston University Theater Boston, MA, –.
The world according to David Rovics, Jimmy Tingle and the Afro D All Starz.
If you’re in the mood for a socially-conscious, community-minded performance, look no further. Celebrate JP’s independent spirit at this unique show. 3-5:30pm. The world according to David Rovics, Jimmy Tingle and the Afro D All Starz.Spontaneous Celebrations Jamaica Plain, MA, .
Muriel Robin
Ok, so maybe high school French classes didn’t quite prepare you for this comedienne – but laughter is still a universal language, promising bon temps for all. Muriel RobinOberon Theatre Cambridge, MA, .
Joining Voices – Sharing Songs
Join the Bulgarian Women’s Chorus and Orchestra alongside the 30-year strong SANS community chorus, and you’re sure to leave this event with a song in your heart. Joining Voices - Sharing SongsFirst Baptist Church of Lexington Lexington, MA, .
JAMN 94.5 FM Summer Jam
Year after year, Jam’n brings some of Hip-Hop’s best to Mansfield in the party that kicks off the summer. You in? 5:30pm. JAMN 94.5 FM Summer JamXfinity Center Mansfield, MA, .
Celtic Women Day
Don’t call them lasses! These are Celtic Women, and they will dazzle with their beautiful voices and harmonies for one night only! 7:30pm. Celtic Women DayThe Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts Worcester, MA, .
Travel
Robin Hood Springtime Festival
I’ve been to this event, and it’s the best renaissance faire in New England, hands down. Come dressed as Robin Hood for added fun. Robin Hood Springtime FestivalGuilford Fairgrounds Guilford, CT, –.
Strawberry Park Bluegrass Festival
Great bluegrass figures will be performing at this 4-day festival. There will be camping spaces for attendees and lots of workshops too! Strawberry Park Bluegrass FestivalStrawberry Park Preston, CT, –.
June Wildfire, a Fire Arts Event
A fire-spinning camp? Now that’s hot! Learn the basics of fire-spinning or master advanced techniques, with the help of pro-spinners. Act fast, space for these burns up quickly ;). June Wildfire, a Fire Arts EventJ.N. Webster Scout Reservation Ashford, CT, –.
Gardenfest at Florence Griswold Museum
Gardenfest celebrates nature with multiple events in and around their historic gardens, including everything from special events to family activities. Free with admission. Gardenfest at Florence Griswold MuseumFlorence Griswold Museum Old Lyme, CT, –.
Dragon Boat Racing at River Fest Norwich
So this is where dragons ended up! Come to this dragon boat race and have fun. I wonder if there will be any fire breathing boats. 9am-2:30pm. Dragon Boat Racing at River Fest NorwichHoward T. Brown Park, Chelsea Harbor Drive Norwich, CT, .
A People’s History of the United States
This is a discussion about a book that paints a picture of America through the eyes of average citizens. And an art book that captures our history in pictures. Expect to leave feeling patriotic! A People's History of the United StatesThe Mark Twain House & Museum Hartford, CT, .
Acadia Birding Festival
By land, water, or obviously, up in the air, if you’re a bird watcher, this is the place to be. How many species will you see? Acadia Birding FestivalAcadia National Park, Mount Desert Island Bar Harbor, ME, –.
Westbrook Together Days
Come ride a pony, or test your skills at the dunk tank. The cherry on the cake is the fireworks show. There’s also a 5K run. 8am@10pm. Westbrook Together DaysRiverbank Park Westbrook, ME, –.
Piscataquis Heritage Hot Air Balloon Festival
Wohoooo! It’s 3 days of hot-air balloons. You know you can’t go wrong with these. There will be food, crafts and other stuff for sale. Piscataquis Heritage Hot Air Balloon Festival Dover-Foxcroft, ME, –.
Owls Head Spring Antique Auto and Aeroplane Show
I’ve been to this transportation museum. The car show is breathtaking by itself, but the airplanes take this to a whole new level. Owls Head Spring Antique Auto and Aeroplane ShowOwls Head Transportation Museum Owls Head, ME, –.
Burlington Discover Jazz Festival
Burlington discover Jazz Festival has been called one of the top ten festivals in the world. Looking at this year’s lineup, it might be true. There will be plenty outdoor and intimate indoor performances. Burlington Discover Jazz FestivalFlynn Center Burlington, VT, –.
Becoming an Outdoor Family
Become a true wilderness survivor at this camp. Bring your family, where each member will have to choose 3 survival skills to master. There will be fishing, swimming and hiking for everyone. Becoming an Outdoor FamilyStillwater State Park Groton, VT, –.
Blacksmith Hammer-In
When you find an annual Hammer-In, you know it’s got to be a smashing time. Area blacksmiths get together to trade tips and share their work – and you have a front row seat. 9-4pm. Blacksmith Hammer-InLake Champlain Maritime Museum Vergennes, VT, .
Outdoor Theatre & More
 Outdoor Theatre & More – click map above to set region Sun 6/1 Mon 6/2 Tue 6/3 Wed 6/4 Thu 6/5 Fri 6/6 Sat 6/7 Sun 6/8
Salsa in the ParkBoston, MA

Mondays at 6-9pm.
Blackstone Community Center more
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Ocean Beach Park Classic Car Cruise NightNew London, CT

Mondays at 6pm.
Ocean Beach Park more
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Outdoor Movies
 Outdoor Movies – click map above to set region Sun 6/1 Mon 6/2 Tue 6/3 Wed 6/4 Thu 6/5 Fri 6/6 Sat 6/7 Sun 6/8
America’s Music: A Film History of Our Popular Music from Blues to Bluegrass to BroadwayProvidence, RI

Tuesdays at 6pm.
Providence Public Library more
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Movies on the BlockProvidence, RI

Thursdays at 7:30pm.
Westminster St at Union St more
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Outdoor Concerts
 Outdoor Music – click map above to set region Mon 5/26 Tue 5/27 Wed 5/28 Thu 5/29 Fri 5/30 Sat 5/31 Sun 6/1 Mon 6/2
Downtown Boston Brass strolling musiciansBoston, MA

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 12nn-2pm.
Downtown Crossing more more
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Middlesex Concert Band RehearsalsWakefield, MA

2014:Thursdays 7:30-9:30pm.
Church, 8 Lafayette St more
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Family Concert Series at West SpringfieldWest Springfield, MA

7-8:30pm.
Various more
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Ocean Beach Park Music SeriesNew London, CT

Variety of cruise nights, magic, live music.
Ocean Beach Park more
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Newport Music SeriesNewport, RI

Different times, venues and $.
more
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Outdoor Concert at the Sampas PavillionLowell, MA

Mondays 7pm.
Sampas Pavilion more
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Summer Concert Series at StorrowtonSpringfield, MA

7-8:30pm.
Gazebo on Storrowton Village Green, 413-263-3284. more
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