Apr 12-19, 2011: Ballooning, Folk Music & Robin Hood Fests, 22 Patriots Day Re-enactments, Easter Egg Hunts, & Earth Day

Wow! At last weekend’s American Humanist Association conference, I got to interview Richard Dawkins. Did you miss it? You can still catch atheism advocate Sean Faircloth of the Secular Coalition of America lecture twice this week.

Thank you to all the people who wrote wanting to become a theatre reviewer!

This week I’m giving away two tickets to a hot air balloon ride — a real one, not a “tethered ride” up and down. As usual, I’ll tend to pick the person who’s most active in getting the word out to friends about Events INSIDER. Click “subscribe” for ideas on how!

I hope you are having an awesome week. Now get out there and do something fun!

-Johnny

p.s. Love this blog? Subscribe to email, , or and if you help get the word out, I’ll put you on my priority list to win free stuff and send you the FREE 27-page Spring 2011 Guide, with over 720 off-beat attractions you won’t find in the blog!


The Week in Weird
Wed 4/13New HampshireHigh 5 Ballooning – tix giveaway
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This is my best giveaway ever. Who wouldn’t want to go on a balloon ride? The place is only 40 minutes away and they have sunrise or sunset trips. I have a pair of tickets to give away. Just tell the owner what your weekly availability is, generally speaking, and he’ll call you on short notice when there’s a spot to fill until he finds you available and you get your ride. I met the owner at a faire and he seems like a lot of fun, not just a pilot but also an entertainer. This is a $400 value. Email johnny@eventsINSIDER.com.
Derry, NH.

more
Fri 4/15 – Sun 4/24Boston MetroBoston International Film Festival – tix giveaway
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Holey smokes! This festival includes more than 100 films and comes with two galas. I’m told that EVERY screening comes with a director Q&A! I have one All Screening Access Pass to give away of the entire festival, a value of $75!
Lowes Theatre Boston Common, Boston, MA.

more
Tue 4/12 – Wed 4/13Metro WestOne Nation Under the Constitution & Sex! Morality! Law! Women!
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Did you missing the American Humanist Association conference? Sean Faircloth, the executive director of this secular advocacy group, is still in Massachusetts and giving speeches two nights in a row. First, Tue 4/12 at 6:30pm in Worcester, then Wed 4/13 at 8pm at Wellesley.
Worcester & Wellesley.

more
Fri 4/15 – Sun 4/17Metro WestNew England Folk Festival
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
I’ve been to NEFFA three times, and it’s sort of a “local” club experience turned into a sprawling weekend of participatory dance, song, and performance. While it doesn’t have the professional feel of many fests, the people who go are creative and inclusive and you’re bound to feel right at home.
Mansfield High School, Mansfield, MA.

more
Sat 4/16WorcesterRobin Hood Day
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
The Higgins Armory is a museum of medeival armor and swords and they are continually having fun events. It’s my favorite Worcester destination, and this week, it is dressed up like Nottingham Castle from the Robin Hood story for a swashbuckling festival. Come dressed in costume!
Higgins Armory, Worcester, MA.

more
Sat 4/16Boston MetroNational Coordinated Protest for Libya
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
There’s a nationwide rally to support Libya, and the Boston version is in Copley Square from 2-4pm. Got lack of knowledge about Arabs? Get thee to a rally and meet some! I did last month and was warmly received.
Copley Square, Boston, MA.

Sat 4/16Metro WestBattle of Lexington Re-enactment & Patriots Day Parades
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Instead of watching a marathon while sitting on your butt, how about taking part in the history that made Patriot’s Day a holiday? I’ve listed 22 activities below, and this one’s my favorite. I love re-enactments! I’ve been to this one, the battle that began the American Revolutionary War, and see a bunch more on their website. Crazy people will do a “march” from 4am-5:45am. And then other crazy people, about 2,000 will show up to watch the re-enactment in Lexington at 5:30am. I guess in the old-timey days a lot of battles happened at dawn. Arrive an hour early or bring a stepladder for a good view. Then at 6am, Pancake breakfast and parade follow the re-enactment, Paul Revere Ride Re-enactment. Concerts, etc. and afternoon parade.
Town Green, 1900 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA.978-388-6749.

more
Mon 4/18 – Fri 4/22Boston MetroMIT Earth Day
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
MIT is doing an Earth Day celebration that is partly outdoors and involves free massage, lectures, and lots of green-themed booths.
MIT, Cambridge, MA.

more
Sat 4/9 – Sun 4/17Boston MetroNational Robotics Week
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Holy R2D2! The Museum of Science is doing a series of lectures followed by a “block party” with tons of robot deoms on April 16, 10am-4pm.
Museum of Science, Boston, Boston, MA.

more
Sat 4/16Metro WestRube Goldberg Machine Design Contest
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Also geeky, check out this MIT student run event for middle school students. They build complex Rube Goldberg type devices. You know, where the candle burns through a string which releases the parrot who eats the grain, spilling over the bucket, etc.
Fay School, 48 Main Street, Southborough, MA.

more
Mon 4/18South Shore[SENSE]ation Day at Fuller Museum
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
They’re also having their annual festival at the Fuller Museum, which is an amazing museum all about crafts. I’ve been many times and highly recommend it. They’ll have interactive performances, participatory arts making, candy making demonstrations, Japanese paper dyeing, mask-making, etc.
455 Oak Street, Brockton, MA.508-588-6000.

more
Fri 4/8 – Sat 8/13Rhode IslandCommitted to C.R.I.M.E.
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
The Newport mansions, art museums, and the cliffwalk are worth visiting any time, but now there’s another reason to go — an entire season of murder mysteries!
Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI.

more
more
Sat 4/16 – Sun 4/17New HampshireMurder Mystery Weekend
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Why do we love murder? It’s so mysterious! (Actually, I don’t love murder. Hmm. But I’m sure this event is fun.).
Lincoln, NH.603-745-6727.

more
Sun 4/17 – Mon 4/18Boston MetroBoston Marathon & Post-Race Dance Party
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Out, and check out the Boston Marathon too! I’m not into watching sports (I hate being idle) so I used to assume it was monotonous, but it’s actually really fun rooting on the joggers. It starts in Hopkinton, going through Wellesley into Boston. Get there early so you can see the wheelchair racers zip past!! I’m pretty sure the after-party is for everyone, but come dressed as though you were one of the runners. (How do I get one of those numbered signs?).
Copley Square, Boston, MA.

more
more
Fri 4/15 – Thu 4/21Boston MetroSing-a-Long Grease
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Grease is the movie that’s so fun to sing along to that they re-released it with lyrics on the screen. Come sing along in Arlington.
Regent Theatre, Arlington, MA.

more
Mon 4/11Boston MetroFree movie previews: Bridesmaids
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Bridesmaids is a comedy with Kristen Wiig, no ticket required, just show up early to the Boston Fenway Theatre TONIGHT well before showtime of 8pm. You’ll get a good seat most likely if you can get there by 6:30pm.
AMC Boston Common Theatre, Boston, MA.

more
Patriots Day
Mon 4/18Boston MetroPatriots Day in Boston
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Now on to Patriots Day! It’s a celebration of Lexington, but if you’re too lazy to get out there by bus, there’s a parade in Boston! The Mayor Hissoner will do a flag raising at 9am on City Hall Plaza, a parade will leave from there.
City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA.617-635-3911.

more
Mon 4/18Boston MetroSomerville Patriot’s Day
Gee, Paul Revere’s like Santa Claus — he’s everywhere! He’ll be visiting this day in the park in Somerville, too, starting at 10am, with entertainment, games, and re-enactors. And Colonial era food stuffs like tea, pumpkin and corn breads. 2011: 10-11:30am.
Foss Park, Somerville, MA.

more
more
Sun 4/17 – Mon 4/18Boston MetroArlington’s Patriot’s Day Parade
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Arlington is holding a “fun race” at 8:45am this Sunday . (So all other races are, what, not fun?) Then a parade that will include the local Star Wars stormtroopers “re-enactors”. 2011: Parade Sun 4/17 at 2pm, then re-enactment of Paul Revere’s ride 4/18 at 12pm.
Start at Brattle & Mass Ave, Arlington, MA.

more
Sat 4/16 – Sat 4/23Boston MetroPaul Revere Lantern Lighting, Ride, & Row Re-enactment
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Paul Revere rides, he lights lanterns, he rows, and he bakes cookies! Well, I made that last part up, but there will also be a re-enactment of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, the poet who wrote “Paul Revere’s Ride”. There are a ton of events right in Boston. Check out the website and do’s youse some learnin’!
Boston, MA.

more
more
more
Mon 4/18Boston MetroRoxbury Patriots’ Day
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Perhaps a little jealous of Lexington, here’s a celebration in Roxbury. They’ll have a FREE pancake breakfast and a historical trolley tour. Did you know that revolutionaries besides Paul Revere knew how to ride a horse and shout? Come hear about William Dawes. 10am.
Church, 10 Putnam St, Roxbury, MA.

more
Fri 4/15 – Sat 4/23Metro WestBattle Road and Patriot’s Day Events at Minute Man Park
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Lexington and nearby towns are doing a ton of re-enactments all week. I’ve been and they’re really fantastic and such a fun way to learn history. Please check it out! Highly recommended!
Various, Lexington, MA.

more
Fri 4/15Metro WestPaul Revere Capture Reenactment
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
For example, did you know that Paul Revere got captured? Come see it live through the magic of re-enactments. 7:30pm.
Bloody Angle, Battle Road Trail, Lincoln, MA.

more
Sun 4/17 – Mon 4/18Metro WestHandbell Festival on Patriots Day
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
While you are there, definitely check out the handbell festival! Monday April 18 at 11:15am. And rehearsal the night before.
Hancock Church on Lexington Green, 1912 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA.

more
Sat 4/16 – Sun 4/17Metro WestLexington Battleground BBQ Festival
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
What better way to celebrate a bloody battle than to hold… a barbecue! Take that, Britain! 11am-7pm.
24 Lincoln Street, Hayden Recreation Center Field, Lexington, MA.

more
Sat 4/16 – Tue 4/19Metro WestPatriot’s Ball and other Concord events
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Concord is holding a variety of events too!
Armory, Stow Street, Concord, MA.978-371-0192.

more
more
Sat 4/16 – Mon 4/18Metro WestPatriots Day Open House at the Old Manse
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
For example, they’ll have a revolutionary war history tour and the grounds are free for a day in the park experience at this historic home.
The Old Manse, 269 Monument Street, Concord, MA.978.369.3909.

more
Mon 4/18Metro WestBritish Mourn Arms Ceremony and Concord Parade
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Some of the many, many events are parades in Lexington 4/18 at 2pm, and Concord at 8:30am.
North Bridge, Concord, MA.

more
Sat 4/16 – Sat 4/23Metro WestArrival of the Sudbury Militia
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Yet more re-enactments… (And they’ll have a dawn salute). 10:30am.
North Bridge, Concord, MA.

more
Mon 4/18Metro WestActon Patriots Day Celebration
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Acton will have a “Patriot’s Day Trolley” to take you to three local museums: Hosmer House, the Jones Tavern and the Faulkner Homestead. They’ll have re-enactors and 18th century demonstrations and entertainment.
Acton, MA.

more
Mon 4/18WorcesterPatriots Day at Old Sturbridge Village
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
My favorite re-enactment museum, Old Sturbridge Village, has re-enactments all year, but this weekend they focus on musket demonstrations and marching and drilling with the Militia.
Town Common, Main Street, Sturbridge, MA.

more
Sat 4/16Northern MassPatriots’ Day Revolutionary Muster and Parade
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Deerfield is historic in the sense that any place that people have lived is historic, because — hey! — people have lived there. But lived they did, and you’ll find 11 old-timey historic home museums. For Patriots Day, they’ll have a parade, and a minuteman gathering, with live music and drums.
Deerfield, MA.413-775-7214.

more
Sun 4/17Rhode IslandRedcoats, Rum, and Rebellion Walking Tour
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Re-enactors play people across three centuries, as part of a tour where you’ll hear stories of British spies, a womens’ uprising, a whipping post, and temperance. 2 pm.
The Meeting House, 3850 Main Rd, Tiverton, RI.401-624-2600.

more
Thu 4/14 – Sun 4/17MainePatriots Day Celebration — Ogunquit, ME
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This one’s got re-enactments, a crafts fair, a kids’ carnival, and fife & drum.
Ogunquit, ME.207-646-2939.

more
Earth Day
Sat 4/16Boston MetroEarth Day Charles River Cleanup
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
On St. Patrick’s Day, you drink. On Earth Day, you pick up trash. Which do you like better? 9am-12pm.
Boston, MA.

more
Sat 4/16Boston MetroEarth day at Franklin Park Zoo
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
My favorite Earth Day activity is going to the Franklin Park Zoo, which is wonderful. They have gorillas! And they’ll have a bunch of speakers and animal keepers do interactive stuff.
Franklin Park Zoo, Boston, MA.

more
Sun 4/17Boston MetroEarth Day 5K “Race Against Extinction
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This charity race benefits the WWF, (the World Wrestling Federation, or something…).
Artesani Park, Boston, MA.

more
Mon 4/11 – Thu 4/21North ShoreEarth Day at Salem State College
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Salem State is celebrates with a career fair, some panels, a tour, and some films. Neat!
Salem State College, Salem, MA.

more
Sun 4/17Northern MassEarth Day Festival in Lowell
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
There’s a free day in the garden at Lowell, MA.
Lowell, MA.

more
Sat 4/16South ShoreSustainable Living Festival
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Or get a wind turbine tour at this green festival in Hull. 10am-2pm.
Hull, MA.

more
Thu 4/14Southeast MassNew Bedford Earth Day Parade
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This is the only actual parade I found for Earth Day. But will there be giant puppets? I think so.
New Bedford, MA.

more
Sun 4/17 – Fri 4/22Rhode IslandParty for the Planet at the Roger Williams Park Zoo
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Roger Williams Park Zoo will host six days of eco-themed activities starting with an Earth Day celebration on Sunday, April 17.
Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence. RI.401-785-3510.

more
Sun 4/17 – Fri 4/22Rhode IslandTake to the Trails and Celebrate Earth Day
The Audubon Society of Rhode Island is offering a weeklong schedule of FREE guided walks at wildlife refuges across the state and nearby Massachusetts.
All Over RI.(401) 949-5454 ext. 3041.

more
Easter Egg Hunts
Sat 4/16Boston MetroEaster Egg Hunt at Dana Park
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Now it’s time for Easter! As usual, the kids get to hunt, but we adults can take our share as a kind of tax for raising them. This event is sponsored by a church, but it’s “for the community” and they’ll have a ‘bounce house’, music, and the ubiquitous facepainting. 11am-1pm.
Dana Park, 74 Magazine St, Cambridge, MA.

more
Sun 4/17North ShoreEGGstravaganza – Danvers, MA
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Most churches will have some kind of event for Easter, but I’m going to list just the secular ones. But this one looked exceptional, so I’m listing it. They’ll also serve you a free breakfast if you sit through their morning sermon. Tempting. Pancakes. Christ. Pancakes. Christ. Can’t I just have the pancakes?
Some church, Danvers, MA.

more
Sun 4/17South ShoreEaster Egg Hunt – Hingham, MA
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This one’s in Hingham.
Hingham, MA.

more
Sat 4/2 – Sat 4/23Southeast MassEaster Egg Hunt — Winslow Farm
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Winslow Farm has perhaps the most interesting Easter celebration because they are a working farm with forest trails.
Winslow Farm, Norton, MA.

more
Sun 4/10 – Sun 4/17Southeast MassEaster Egg Hunt – Swansea, MA
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Each child gets a golden ticket at this one. 1-3pm.
Stony Creek Farm, 1210 Wilbur Ave, Swansea, MA.

more
Sat 4/16Southeast MassTown of Norton’s Annual Spring Egg Hunt
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This one’s definitely outdoors, and the Easter Bunny will make an appearance. 1pm.
Town Forest on Plain St., Norton, MA.

more
Sat 4/16Southeast MassAnnual City Easter Egg Hunt – Taunton, RI
I’m in! This one has an Easter egg hunt that allows adults to assist kids. I’m quite sure I can beat out a bunch of 4-year-olds. I mean, um, “assist” my “teammate” in doing so.
Watson’s Pond, Taunton, MA.

more
Sat 4/16Southeast MassCamouflaged Egg Hunt
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Kids ages 3 to 10 hunt for brown eggs in a natural setting instead of painted eggs, to learn about camouflage. Bring a basket. Rain or shine. Also at parks in Bristol, RI, Exeter, RI, and Smithfield, RI. Register. 9:30-11am.
Caratunk Wildlife Refuge, 301 Brown Avenue, Seekonk, MA.(401) 949-5454, ext. 3041.

more
Sat 4/16Rhode IslandEaster Egg Hunt – Westerly, RI
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
If you’re in Rhode Island, go to this park instead. I have a huge height and speed advantage over 5-year-olds. I’m quite sure I can collect more eggs than anyone!
Wilcox Park, Westerly, RI.401-596-7761.

more
Sat 4/16 – Sat 4/23New HampshireEaster Egg Hunt at Charmingfare Farm
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
But this farm says they’ll give out $75,000 in prizes!! Really?! I’m definitely staking out the place the night before with infrared goggles and entering my “little person” adult friend Jason as a “6 year old”. Go get ’em, Jason!
774 High Street, Candia, NH.

more
Sat 4/16ConnecticutSpringtime with the Bushnell Bunny
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Breakfast buffet & egg hunt, with “crafts and springtime activities”. 9 am.
The Bushnell Center, 166 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT.860-987-5900.

more
Sat 4/16ConnecticutEaster Egg Hunt – Greenwich, CT
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This one’s definitely outdoors, too. 10am. Rain date the next day.
Greenwich, CT.

more
Sat 4/16MaineAnnual Easter Egg Extravaganza – Maine
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This one has an entire parade! 10am-1pm.
Loranger Middle School, Old Orchard Beach, ME.207-934-0860.

more
Also Fun
Tue 4/12 – Sun 4/17ConnecticutCivil War Conference & Commemoration
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Wow! There are a ton of Civil War events going on in Connecticut.
New Britain, CT.

more
Thu 4/14Boston MetroVolunteer Expo
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Now on to the creative but less wow-tastic events this week. Unemployed and have a lot of time on your hands? Maybe you should volunteer for a local group! This expo will feature a number of tables with people to meet and information to get.
Prudential Center, Boston, MA.

more
Fri 4/15 – Sun 10/30Boston MetroCarousel on Boston Common
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
The carousel on Boston Common is opening April 15! The merry-go-round is open Sun-Thu, 11am to 6pm, and Fri & Sat 11am-8pm.
Boston Common near Frog Pond, Boston, MA.

more
Sat 4/16 – Sun 10/30Boston MetroCarousel on Kennedy Greenway
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
I was walking along the greenway (you know, where the Big Dig happened but there’s now a garden) and discovered a carousel!! Sun-Thu, 11am-9pm, Fri & Sat, 11am-11pm.
In-between Haymarket & Aquarium subway stops on the Rose Kennedy Greenway, Boston, MA.

more
Tue 4/19Boston MetroApril 19, 1861: Baltimore and the Pratt Street Riot
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
The Mt. Auburn Cemetery hosts a number of lectures, and this one’s on the Civil War’s first conflicts, followed by a tour to some relevant gravesites.
Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge, MA.

more
Wed 3/23 – Sun 4/17Boston MetroRevere Spring Carnival
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Fiesta Shows brings their slightly hokey and overpriced but undeniably fun traveling carnival to Revere, and I’ll keep you on the pulse of where else they’ll be all year.
Showcase Cinemas, Route 60, Revere, MA.

more
Thu 4/7 – Sun 4/17New HampshireGiant Carnival
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
The carnival also comes to Nashua, which is fairly close to Boston.
Holman Stadium, Nashua, NH.

more
Sun 4/17North ShoreTopsfield Kite Day
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Kites, kites, kites. We love kites. 11am-3pm.
Topsfield MA.

more
Thu 4/14Boston MetroNever Say Die: Immortality and Overpopulation
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This panel at Suffolk gives advice on living longer, and comments on what it means for society to face a growing population as we age longer. 6:30-8 pm.
Moot Court Room, Suffolk University Law School, Boston, MA.

more
Fri 4/15Boston MetroDeval Patrick: Book Talk
If you want to see Deval Patrick — you know that’s our state governor, right? — talk about his book, sign up now.
Harvard Bookstore, Cambridge, MA.

more
Thu 4/14 – Sat 4/16Boston MetroNew England Metal and Hardcore Festival
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
I’m not much for head-banging but it’s a festival so I’m listing it! It’s your band’s chance to get talent-scouted.
All Over, Boston, MA.

more
Sat 4/16 – Sun 4/17Cape CodWoods Hole Model Boat Show
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This festival comes only every other year. You can make and race model boats!
Woods Hole Historical Museum, Woods Hole, MA.508-548-7270.

more
Mon 4/18North ShoreFree Crane Beach Day
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Crane Beach is free. What, is it really expensive normally? Well, it’s $10 on weekdays, $20 on weekends, and $50 for the season, but it includes admission to Castle Hill, the historic mansion and grounds.
Crane Beach, Ipswich, MA.

more
Mon 4/11Boston MetroEvents INSIDER Restaurant Reviews
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Check out our restaurant reviews this week of Garlic ‘n Lemons (mediterranean, Brookline), Sabra (mediterranean, Cambridge), Tommy Doyle’s (Irish Pub, Cambridge), and Zoe’s Kitchen (Greek & Breakfast-all-Day in Cambridge).
Across Boston Metro, Cambridge, MA.

more
Thu 4/14Metro WestFREE Preview and Reception of When Duty Whispers-Concord & The Civil War
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
The Concord Museum has a new exhibit to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, and they’re holding a FREE preview and reception. RSVP immediately.
Concord Museum, 200 Lexington Rd, Concord, MA.

more
Thu 4/14Boston MetroCambridge Open Studios Preview Exhibition Reception
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
The Cambridge Open Studios aren’t until May, but they have a reception, which appears to be free, celebrating a “preview exhibition”. It’s a nice way to decide where in the city you want to go when the open studios themselves happen.
Cambridge, MA.

more
Thu 4/14Boston MetroExcavating the Great Aztec Temple: Achievements and Perspectives
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
So… Mexico City’s pyramids contain remains of animal and human sacrifices… and now there’s a lecture. Awesome!
Geological Lecture Hall, 24 Oxford St., Cambridge, MA.

more
Sat 4/16Western MassSix Flags New England – Opening Weekend
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
The biggest amusement park in New England opens for the season! Of course, the water park won’t be open until the summer. They don’t seem to have anything special planned that doesn’t happen on other weekends.
Six Flags New England, Agawam, MA.

more
Sat 4/16Boston MetroFAST Future
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This free conference at MIT features arts and technology lectures and demos. Neat-o! Open to the public. 9:30am-8:30pm.
MIT Media Lab, 6th Floor, 75 Amherst St, Cambridge, MA.

more
Sat 4/16 – Sun 4/17Western MassExtravaganja
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
I visited this festival once and it was super high energy. It’s mainly a bunch of vendors and live music, but a lot of good people attend if you are in the area.
Amherst Town Center, College Street at Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA.

more
Sat 4/16 – Sun 4/17Boston MetroFaneuil Hall Marketplace Street Performers Audition Performances
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Fanueil Hall invites a bunch of street performer to try out this weekend in advance of their big festival. You get to come watch!
Faneuil Hall, West End Promenade, Boston, MA.

more
Sat 4/16 – Sun 5/8Western MassBaby Animals on the Shaker Farm
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Nothing much special is going on at Hancock Shaker Village. But baby animals!! So cute!! If you’re ever going to visit, why not now? And learn about the Shakers.
34 Lebanon Mountain Rd., Hancock, MA.

more
Sun 4/17Boston MetroHenry’s Future” with Director Q&A
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
In this film, a heartbroken guy finds a woman who matches a psychic’s criteria and tries to convince her they’re destined for each other. Wow! The Director or cast will come for a Q&A afterwards. 3:30pm.
AMC Boston Common Theater, Boston, MA.

more
more
Sun 4/17Boston Metro50th Anniversary of the Bay of Pigs Invasion
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
You missed a speech by Deval Patrick, which is now full, so register now for this one before it sells out! Historians Timothy Naftali, Peter Kornbluh, and Alfredo Duran, a Cuban exile who participated in the assault, examine the steps leading to the Bay of Pigs and the lessons learned by the Kennedy Administration.
JFK Library & Museum, Boston, MA.

more
Sun 4/17Boston MetroA Sushi Spectactular to benefit Japan
The problem with fundraisers is that they charge extra to, you know, fundraise. But now that Japan’s raised their nuclear emergency status to the highest level, even their first world country could use some help. Go eat sushi for $150 and feel like you’re helping.
Boston, MA.

more
Performance
Wed 4/13Boston MetroFREE Opera Night at the BPL. With discussion and mini-performances.
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
To stimulate interest in opera, the Boston Lyric Opera is performing for free in the Boston Public Library.
Boston Public Library, Copley Square, Boston, MA.

more
Wed 4/13Boston MetroTALK NERDY 2 ME
This is a burlesque show that sold out last year.
Middlesex Lounge, Cambridge, MA.

more
Wed 4/13 – Sun 4/17Boston MetroThe Edwards Twins do 1970s impressions
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This pair of twins can do more than 100 celebrity impressions from the 1970s. Ah, ah, ah, ah — Stayin’ Alive!
Stoneham Theatre, Stoneham, MA.

more
Thu 4/14Boston MetroGala Semi-finals Story Slam Extraordinare
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
What’s the difference between a one-person show and storytelling for adults? Performers include Cambridge native Farrah Haidar, an Arab-American telling “Where I am From”, a dairy farmer, a retired kindergarten teacher, a NPR radio producer, a marketing manager, a full time theater student, writers and a few professional storytellers.
Coolidge Corner Theatre, Brookline, MA.

more
Thu 4/7Boston MetroBreaking the Code
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
I really want to see this! During World War II, a group of math geniuses led by Alan Turing broke the German secret code. And that’s just the start of the impact Turing had on the future of computers.
Central Square Theatre, 450 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA.

more
Fri 4/15 – Sun 4/17Rhode IslandMonty Python’s Spamalot
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Winner of the 2005 Tony Award for Best Musical, I’ve seen this and it’s AMAZING. It’s the musical comedy sensation lovingly ripped off from the film classic “Monty Python and The Holy Grail.”.
Providence Performing Arts Center, Providence, RI.

more
Fri 4/15Boston MetroKronos Quartet, Bang-on-a-Can, Wu Man, Gamelan Galak Tika, MIT Chamber Chorus
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
This is a 5-hour marathon concert at MIT. Who’d ‘a thought?
MIT Kresge Auditorium, 48 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA.

more
Fri 4/8 – Sat 4/23Boston MetroBlackadder II – our review
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
The Black Adder was the BBC Show in the 1980s that brought comedian Rowan Atkinson (Mr. Bean) to prominence. A medeival prince constantly schemes to steal the king’s crown from his father and brother. Now a local theatre is doing a run of two-night performances where they will act out the entire second season! It’s one of the greatest comedies of all time! Click for our review!
Charlestown Working Theater, 442 Bunker Hill Ave, Charlestown, MA.

more
our review

Sun 4/17Boston MetroHarmony Sweepstakes A Cappella Competitions, regionals
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat
Finally — phew! What a big week! — a capella only gets better when they bring in the best groups for a competition.
Cohen Auditorium, Tufts University, 40 Talbot Avenue, Medford, MA.617-627-3493.

more

 

Love this blog? Subscribe to email, Facebook, or Twitter and please tell your friends and get the FREE 27-page Spring 2011 Guide, with over 720 off-beat attractions you won’t find in the blog!