Events INSIDER: April 28 – May 6, 2014

04/28/14 by
Johnny’s Picks
Chalk on the Walk
Come paint the streets with chalk. Write your name or create a masterpiece. The best ones will be awarded with prizes. Chalk on the WalkHarvard Square MayFair Cambridge, MA, .
Harvard Arts First Festival
Every year, Harvard has an arts festival that takes place all over campus! As well as music, dance, and theater, you’ll find a Native American powwow, improv comedy, tons of a cappella, and the 1812 overture. But will they use a real cannon? Harvard Arts First FestivalHarvard University Cambridge, MA, –.
Somerville Open Studios
Well this is for all you curious art lovers, ever wondered where the artists got their amazing ideas? Come visit their open studios! Maybe you’ll get an epiphany! (maybe, not guaranteed). Somerville Open StudiosMultiple Venues Somerville, MA, –.
World Labyrinth Day: Walk as One at 1
Walk a labyrinth with a group of people to celebrate World Labyrinth Day. If you get lost, at least you’ll be around a lot of people. 9am. 2014: 1pm. World Labyrinth Day: Walk as One at 1Armenian Heritage Park on the Greenway, Atlantic Ave at Cross St. Boston, MA, .
Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower
Eta Aquarids are elusive and hard to catch. This is a great opportunity to see this meteor shower, just make sure you go to bed early the night before. 4am. 2014: ? Eta Aquarids Meteor ShowerSomewhere without lights, like a pond or open field, All Over All Over, , .
Boston Lemonade Day
Kids get to learn the basics of running a business by managing their own lemonade stand. Not only fun, but inspiring and useful! Boston Lemonade DayAll Over Boston, MA, .
Mayfair in Harvard Square
Harvard Square takes it up another notch for its Mayfair with vendors galore, tons of family fun, and all the music, art and performances you can handle. 12pm. Mayfair in Harvard SquareHarvard Square, JFK Street Cambridge, MA, .
Wake Up the Earth Festival and Parade
Thousands gather for this celebration of spring, friendship and community spirit. Puppet shows, live music, theatre shows and several other activities have been seen in years past, fun available to everyone. 11 am (no updated time). Wake Up the Earth Festival and ParadeDCR Southwest Corridor Park, Stony Brook T Station Jamaica Plain, MA, .
Street Performers Festival
Do you have what it takes to be a street performer at world-famous Faneuil Hall? Or are you a world-class spectator? Either way, this will be an exciting day full of incredible performances. 2014:11am-5pm. Street Performers FestivalQuincy Market Upper Rotunda & Ned Devine’s Boston, MA, –.
Lexington Muster
If you’ve ever wanted to spend a weekend camping, watching a parade and a muster, *and* getting inked up, this event is for you. Lexington MusterHistoric Battle Road inside Minute Man National Park, 174 Liberty St, Concord, MA, –.
Stars and Mars in May
Yes, there’s an app for that. Learn the newest ways to enjoy the night sky as you enjoy a guided tour of the stars. 8:30pm. Stars and Mars in MayBroadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary Natick, MA, .
Needham Open Studios
The town of Needham offers the opportunity of getting pieces of art directly from the creative sources. Meet artists and their fabulous workplaces. 10am-4pm. Needham Open StudiosNeedham Public Library Needham, MA, –.
Scrabble Boston Area Tournament
Honorificabilitudinitatibus in the longest word in English Shakespeare used in one of his novels, and I certainly hope you aren’t planning to use it in the Boston Area Scrabble Tournament. Scrabble Boston Area TournamentWestford Regency Westford, MA, –.
Run For Your Lives
Adults and children alike can get together to have fun and run to raise awareness for women’s cancers. Run For Your LivesSea Crest Beach Hotel North Falmouth, MA, .
Westborough Spring Festival
A car show, hot-air balloon rides and a Mexican night are just part of what Westborough Spring Festival has prepared for this year’s fundraiser celeb. Westborough Spring FestivalThe Rotary Club of Westborough, Chateau Restaurant, Routes 9 & 30 Westborough, MA, –.
Shelburne Falls ArtWalk – Art Under the Stars
Shelburne Falls becomes a giant open studio for artists, musicians and craft vendors to show their works. There are hands-on activities, films, and trolley rides too. But if there’s something you cannot miss, it’s the bridge of flowers. 2-8pm. 2014:5pm-8pm. Shelburne Falls ArtWalk - Art Under the StarsAround Town, All Over Shelburne Falls, MA, .
Sholan Farms Apple Blossom Festival
This event is packed with fun shows like the ‘butterfly release’, a bagpipe procession and a couple of choruses performing. Not to mention fun for the kids and tons of food! 10am. Sholan Farms Apple Blossom FestivalSholan Farms Leominster, MA, .
Waterfire Providence
Every other Saturday more than 80 bonfires are lit on the river and festivities happen along the shore. On this date only, you can learn how it’s done! For the rest of the season, check site’s schedule for dates or our weekly listing of outdoor events. 9am-2pm. Waterfire ProvidenceWaterplace Park Providence, RI, .
Northampton Pride Parade
The rainbow flag has been waving at this parade for more than 30 years. Join the fun and feel the great vibes the LGBT community shares. 2014 Parade 12pm. 11am. Northampton Pride ParadeHampton Ave, 3 County Fairgrounds, Fair St Northampton, MA, .
UMass Renaissance Festival
This year’s Renaissance Festival features juggling lessons, falconry shows and the usual feasting, singing and theatre. Joust kidding, there is even more! 2014:11am-4pm. UMass Renaissance FestivalRenaissance Center Meadow Amherst, MA, .
Granite State Story Swap
Breakfast, lunch, and all the stories you can swap in between. Come tell a tale at this storied event! 8am-5pm. Granite State Story SwapSeacoast Science Center ~ Odiorne Point State Park Rye, NH, .
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, , –.
Get the 2014 New England Guide
Mention my website to friends and get my 2013 New England Guide, with 1,200 off-beat destinations including dinosaur footprints, zoos, ziplines, where to go stargazing, and where to find an indoor water park in December! Get the 2014 New England Guide All Over, , –.
Also Fun
Art in Bloom
Nature itself is pure art, but that does not mean us humans cannot play a little with it and create beautiful arrangements with flowers. Meet popular floral designers and be amazed by floral expos full of color and fun. Art in BloomMuseum of Fine Arts Boston, MA, –.
Boston Pops Conductor Keith Lockhart Conducting Lessons
WTF? Learn to conduct an orchestra from Keith Lockhart. 6-8pm. Boston Pops Conductor Keith Lockhart Conducting LessonsSymphony Hall Boston, MA, .
Taste of the Nation Boston
Yea, yea, pay too much for food because it’s a fundraiser. But then you get to socialize with celebrity chefs and rich people! Oh, and help a good cause. 6-10pm. Taste of the Nation BostonCruiseport Boston Boston, MA, .
Bio-IT World Conference & Expo
Life and technology go together like horse and carriage; and luckily there’s people devoting their entire life to lead that carriage into the discovery of the next big thing in the field of medicine and drugs. Hear and know what’s new and what’s coming in biotechnology. Bio-IT World Conference & ExpoWorld Trade Center Boston, MA, –.
Black Francis
After decades of rocking onstage, Black Francis uses a new medium to share his passion for yet another! With readings from his new novel, signings and short films, this event is sure to rock! 7pm. Black FrancisThe Brattle Theater Cambridge, MA, .
Soman Chainani with Maria Tatar and Gregory Maguire
A world without princes? What could go wrong in this happily ever after? Find out, during this discussion about fairy tales and literature! 7pm. Soman Chainani with Maria Tatar and Gregory MaguireThe Harvard Coop Cambridge, MA, .
Lzaro Saavedra: Funerary Egocentrism
Denied the chance to perform in Cuba, come see an artist with a dark sense of humor finally bring his art to life. 5pm. Lzaro Saavedra: Funerary EgocentrismMuseum of Fine Arts, Foster Gallery, 158 Boston, MA, .
Return of the Swans
Did you know that Boston has a big outdoor garden with a lake and boat rides? They’re called Swan Boats, and there are real swans in the lake as well. In their annual opening day festival, come for the kids parade, the brass band, the flowers of nature, and to take a ride! 11am. Return of the SwansPublic Garden Boston, MA, .
Art on the Marquee: Opening Reception
When they say that this artwork is larger than life, they aren’t kidding! Artists have created works for an 80-foot LED screen and now you can socialize in this opening reception like the fashionista and artiste you are deep down. 6:30-8:30pm. Art on the Marquee: Opening ReceptionBoston Convention & Exhibition Center Boston, MA, .
2013 Massachusetts State High School Fair
The spirit of competition is always fierce at science fairs. It increases when there’s $500,000 in scholarships and prizes. Come appreciate the future, imagined by students today. 2013 Massachusetts State High School FairMIT Campus, 77 Massachusetts Ave Cambridge, MA, –.
Crossover: Opening Reception
Can you find the fine line between the real and digital worlds? Follow its path at this unique exhibit and reception. 6pm. Crossover: Opening Reception Jamaica Plain, MA, .
The stow Minute Men, and the Making of America
What exactly goes down at a Fife & Drum Muster? Find out in this historical and fun event! The stow Minute Men, and the Making of AmericaMinuteman National Park Visitor’s Center Lincoln, MA, .
May the 4th be with you
May the force be with you as the worlds of Star Wars and wildlife collide for one special day at this well known zoo. May the 4th be with youFranklin Park Zoo Boston, MA, .
Boston Portuguese Festival
Meet other Portuguese-American youths as you network over lunch and fun activities. Say hello to old friends and meet new ones! Boston Portuguese FestivalPortuguese American Civic League Somerville, MA, .
The Boston 48 Hour Film Project
Lights, camera, action! A wild scramble of teams competing to make the best short film in just 48 hours. This is no reality show, but it’s really happening, and you can view the fruits of their labor. The Boston 48 Hour Film ProjectCoolidge Corner Theatre Boston, MA, –.
Taste of the North End
In its 21st year, there is no better way to sample over 40 of the North End’s finest food establishments..in one night! Hosted by Billy Costa, proceeds from this event even benefit local causes. Taste of the North End?Steriti Memorial Rink, 415 Hanover St Boston, MA, .
‘Love Letters’
Our local Dear Abby of love shares stories, explains how she keeps things real in her writing and even takes questions from the audience. 1:30pm. 'Love Letters' Cambridge, MA, .
Free Comic Book Day
FCBD is every geek’s dream come true. Different offerings available from store to store. Check out the website for a list of goodies. Free Comic Book DayAlmost all Comic Stores across North America, All Over All Over, , .
Walk for Hunger
Every step you take on this 20 mile walk helps put food on a deserving person’s plate. Lace ’em up! 7am. Walk for HungerBoston Common Boston, MA, .
May Day at Hayes Park
Welcome spring at this fun-filled family festival. Face painting, flower planting, music and refreshments too! 2014:3pm-5pm. May Day at Hayes ParkWarren Avenue and West Canton Street, All Over Boston, MA, .
arsenalARTS Open Arts Day
Free performances and theatre workshops, live music and entertainment for both kids and adults. 11am. 2014:11am. arsenalARTS Open Arts DayArsenal Center for the Arts Watertown, MA, .
Flying Powder Fun Run 5k
This race brings ‘fun run’ to a whole new level. When you cross the finish line, you’re guaranteed to look and feel great! Flying Powder Fun Run 5kKimball Fram Haverhill, MA, .
Review: Angels in America: Millenium Approaches
The great play that turned into a TV series is here! Angels in America: Millenium ApproachesEmerson Umbrella Center for the Arts Concord, MA, –.
Canobie Lake Park Grand Opening and One Day Sale
What’s better than a trip to Canobie Lake Park? One during it’s extra-fun Grand Opening Weekend! Be among the first to ride the coasters and have a blast this year. Canobie Lake Park Grand Opening and One Day SaleCanobie Lake Park Salem, NH, .
Giona Sezoha G’dakinna: We Paint Our Land
She painted her land and you can see the literal fruits and vegetables of her labor at this exhibit reception. 2-4pm. Giona Sezoha G'dakinna: We Paint Our LandMt. Kearsarge Indian Museum Warner, NH, .
Massachusetts Poetry Festival at the PEM
Over the course of three days, take in as many readings, performances, and workshops as you can handle, and you’ll be feeling like a poet before you know it! Massachusetts Poetry Festival at the PEMPeabody Essex Museum Salem, MA, –.
New England Gem and Mineral Show
Come and get beautiful and mesmerizing rocks at discount prices. Kids can pan for gold and pick out beautiful jewelry for mom! 9am-5pm. New England Gem and Mineral Showvarious venues, Route 1 North Topsfield, MA, –.
North Quabbin Arts in Bloom Fest
Live performances and food vendors complete this celebration, which features the traditional and popular May Pole dance. 11-5pm. 2014: 11am-5pm. North Quabbin Arts in Bloom FestButterfield Park, East River Street Orange, MA, .
Derby Day at the Paragon Carousel
Betting on a carousel horse sounds a bit crazy, but lots of fun. Come try your luck at the ‘races’ of Paragon Carousel. Winners get prizes, and proceeds go to the Friends of the Paragon Carousel. 7pm. 2014: 7-10pm. Derby Day at the Paragon CarouselParagon Carousel Hull, MA, .
Race to Save a Species 5k and Fun Run
Whales are the biggest mammals on water, but they still need our help. Join this 5K race and help them. There’s a life-size inflatable whale, you gotta come check it out. 11am. 2014: 11am. Race to Save a Species 5k and Fun RunPlymouth Rock Relay Plymouth, MA, .
Skyline Hike
Take your tots to new heights as you travel step by step through the beautiful Blue Hills. Bi-weekly event starting May 6 @ 11am. Skyline HikeHoughton’s Pond Milton, MA, .
Angiosarcoma Awareness Inc. 5K Race & Walk
This race not only benefits your health, but other people’s as well. Run 5k and help people battling Angiosarcoma. 9am. Angiosarcoma Awareness Inc. 5K Race & WalkOxford High School Oxford, MA, .
Worcester ALS Walk
You don’t need a sword and shield to help fight ALS. All it takes is coming to their annual walk and support the cause. 9am. 2014: 9am. Worcester ALS WalkCommerce Bank Field at Foley Stadium Worcester, MA, .
Two Nations Powwow
Come see how a tipi looks like from the inside. This Powwow features dancing, drumming and lots of native crafts and meals. 10am-5pm. 2014: 10am-5pm. Two Nations PowwowAuburn Sportsmam’s Club Auburn, MA, –.
Southbridge May Day Festival
You can join the traditional May Pole Dance, but not before you help search for the unicorn. Live music, food vendors and much more. 12pm. 2014:12pm-6pm. Southbridge May Day FestivalArts Center Southbridge, 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, –.
Brewster Kite Building & Demonstration
12-3pm. With the help of industry professionals, build your own kite and then fly it. Includes a kite show for everyone to enjoy. 2014: 12pm. Brewster Kite Building & DemonstrationDrummer Boy Park Brewster, MA, .
Brewster in Bloom
Brewster in Bloom festival seems to have it all covered. They offer golf competitions, pancake breakfasts and art exhibitions, even fun for the kids. Something for every member of the family! Brewster in BloomVarious Venues Brewster, MA, –.
International Herb Day
Plenty of workshops will teach you about the many uses for herbs, from pizza to pain relief and everything in between. 10am. 2014:10am-4pm. International Herb DayBotanic Garden Cambridge, MA, .
Smith’s Castle Bridge to the Past
Smith’s Castle was at some point an important trading post in the area. Come see how things used to be there on this history re-enactment. 2013:. 2014:12pm-4pm. Smith's Castle Bridge to the PastSmith’s Castle North Kingstown, RI, –.
RI Cherry Blossom Festival
Now in its sixth year, this two day festival promises a truly royal time – it even features a princess! RI Cherry Blossom FestivalRiver Island Park Woonsocket, RI, –.
Navigant Credit Union Running Festival
You can go the distance – not only can you run a half marathon, you can also opt for a 5k while your kids dash a 1k. If you like to run, this one’s for you. 8am. Navigant Credit Union Running FestivalRoosevelt Ave Pawtucket, RI, .
Spring Forward Think Back
Take a look at Rhode Island from the past in this collection of historic postcards and maps at Spring Forward.. Think Back while you try high quality cocktails and local delights. 7pm. Spring Forward Think BackAldrich House Providence, RI, .
Art Night – Bristol & Warren
Listen to live music and help kick off the third season of this event: every last Thursday of every month from April through October, several artists of Rhode Island open their doors and show their work and projects. Sounds pretty cool, and it’s completely free! 5-8pm. 2014: 5pm-8pm. Art Night - Bristol & WarrenThe Brass Warren, RI, .
Performance
Review: Becoming Cuba
Experience life at the beginning of the Spanish American War through the eyes of a spirited woman forced to make a life altering choice. Review: Becoming CubaHuntington Theatre Boston, MA, .
The Complete History of Comedy (abridged)
A play that tries to cover the history of comedy from its very early stages to Jon Stewart’s Daily Show! The Complete History of Comedy (abridged)Nancy L. Donahue Theatre Lowell, MA, –.
Three Days of Rain by Richard Greenberg
A modern-day masterpiece by Tony Award winning playwright Richard Greenberg. Three Days of Rain by Richard GreenbergFirst Church in Boston Boston, MA, –.
URO’s ‘BAND IN BOSTON!’
The Ultrasonic Rock Orchestra gets 5 stars every time we review it. Come see their show! URO's 'BAND IN BOSTON!'Regent Theatre Arlington, MA, .
123
123 is a dark, funny drama about a rift between sisters and what it takes to grow up when they’re separated from their parents and have to go into foster homes. 123The Factory Theatre Boston, MA, –.
JazzBoston Jazz Week
It’s 10 full days of Jazz music. Public performances, home concerts and jazz ensembles will make this celebration the best one yet! JazzBoston Jazz WeekVarious Locations Boston, MA, –.
Where the Mountain Meets the Moon
A wonderful story and American classic come to life in this adaptation of ‘Where The Mountain Meets The Moon’. Where the Mountain Meets the MoonWheelock Family Theatre Boston, MA, –.
White Rabbit, Red Rabbit
White Rabbit, Red Rabbit has no director, no set and a different actor for each performance. The actors don’t get to see the script until they arrive on stage to perform this utterly wild, original play. 7:30pm. White Rabbit, Red RabbitPlaza Black Box Theater at the Boston Center for the Arts Boston, MA, –.
Good Television
This is an interesting play about Reality TV shows and how much they’re actually good/bad to society and their participants. Good TelevisionPlaza Black Box Theater at the Boston Center for the Arts Boston, MA, –.
Review: ASP’s As You Like It
One of Shakespeare’s most delightful comedies! Click for our review. Review: ASP's As You Like ItThe Springstep Building Medford, MA, –.
My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy
Ninety minutes of non-stop laughter in ‘My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy’. My Son the Waiter: A Jewish TragedyThe Regent Theatre Arlington, MA, –.
123: A Play
When their radical parents are imprisoned, sisters 1, 2 and 3 are sent to live with different foster families. 123: A PlayThe Factory Theatre Boston, MA, –.
ICARUS
They’re not responsible if you got a weak heart! Everything from puppets and clowns to live music in this Americana Myth Musical. Come hear the melodies of Icarus! ICARUSOBERON Cambridge, MA, –.
School House Rock Live, Jr.
You know all the songs, and chances are, your kids do too! Catch this performance and you’ll see that the Schoolhouse still rocks! 6:30pm. School House Rock Live, Jr.John F. Kennedy Elementary School Somerville, MA, –.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
A dance show performed by some of the best dancers and choreographers in the world. I’ll be convinced when they do the robot dance. Alvin Ailey American Dance TheaterCiti Performing Arts Center Boston, MA, –.
The Glass Menagerie
The Winchester Players take on the Glass Menagerie in their latest performance. 8pm. The Glass MenagerieFirst Congregational Church of Winchester Winchester, MA, –.
Sontag: Reborn
Whether or not you’re a fan of Susan Sontag, you will enjoy this journey through her iconic mind. Straight from her personal journals to the stage. Sontag: RebornEmerson/Paramount Center Mainstage Boston, MA, –.
On the Verge
Start with Happy Days, drop a group of Victorian women into the mix, and you’ve got a general idea of this hilarious time-travel fantasy. On the VergeCharles Mosesian Theater at the Arsenal Center for the Arts Watertown, MA, –.
Travel
CAMA Spring Power-Up
If you don’t think an antique steam powered machinery show is cool, how about riding a 1925 steam locomotive? 10am. 2014:10am-4pm. CAMA Spring Power-UpCT Antique Machinery Assoc., Inc. Kent, CT, .
Milford Duck Race
Join this rubber duck race. Without a doubt, it’ll be the most relaxing swimming competition you ever enter. 2014 :11am@4pm. Milford Duck RaceWepawaug River, All Over Milford, CT, .
Northeast PEZ Collectors Gathering Public Show Day
Come see tons of PEZ for Sale! New PEZ, Old PEZ, Valuable PEZ! Everything PEZ! Come get the PEZ dispenser you always wanted. PEZ swapping or bidding through silent auctions. 10am Sunday. Northeast PEZ Collectors Gathering Public Show DaySheraton Stamford Hotel Stamford, CT, –.
Zagray Farm Spring Show
Come see old farm machinery from late 1800 working as it would’ve done back then. There’s going to be a tractor parade and free wagon rides! Zagray Farm Spring ShowZagray Farm Museum Colchester, CT, –.
Milford Living Kite Fly
Enjoy the beach breeze while watching this flying kite show. It’s free for all, and you can bring your own kite too! 12pm. 2014:12pm@3pm. Milford Living Kite FlyWalnut Beach, Viscount Dr & E Broadway Milford, CT, .
May 3rd is Free Day
Visits to the museum become interesting when tickets cost ‘nada.’ Free Day is back and it features new exhibitions and activities for all visitors. 10-5pm. 2014:10am-5pm. May 3rd is Free DayFlorence Griswold Museum Old Lyme, CT, .
Mayfair!
This citywide yard sale not only will let you buy that thing you’ve probably been looking for, but you’ll also find maypole dancing, a scavenger hunt and a farmers market. 8:30am. Mayfair!Main Street Bath, All Over Bath, ME, .
Kennebunk May Day Celebration
Wish the Mad Hatter would invite you to tea? Crash a tea party, ride a wagon, and enjoy all Kennebunk has to offer in this family fun-filled event. n. Kennebunk May Day CelebrationKennebunk Downtown Committee Kennebunk, ME, .
Maine Robot Track Meet
It’s the Robot Olympics! Come watch different robots compete for the crown on 10 different robo-disciplines. I’m telling you, this is something NOONE should miss. 8:30am. Maine Robot Track MeetEllsworth Elementary and Middle School Ellsworth, ME, .
Shrine Circus
Bangor’s biggest circus is back! Enjoy watching a bear riding a motorcycle while you eat cotton candy and popcorn. Also, be ready to laugh at the famous Anah Shrine Clowns. Shrine CircusBangor Auditorium Bangor, ME, –.
Vermont Restaurant Week!
Vermont Restaurant Week is awesome! Get amazing deals on the best dishes at great restaurants in Vermont. Simple as that. Vermont Restaurant Week!All over Vermont All Over, , –.
Steve Zemianek/Benning Road Race
This event honors Coach ‘Zem’. Featuring races that range from half a mile to 10K, everyone can enjoy this celebration. 10am. Steve Zemianek/Benning Road RaceHistoric Park McCullough House, North Bennington, VT, .