Aug 14-23, 2011: Caribbean, Dragon Boat, Fireworks Fests, Air & Car Show, and 300 Outdoor Movie, Theatre, and Music series
If you have a BlackBerry, please email me — I still need testers for my new mobile app events calendar on that platform. And thank you! 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!
Phoenix Faire Renaissance Festival | Worcester
Fri 8/19 – Sun 8/21 |
I’ve been to Ye Olde Commons. It’s more natural seeming than most renaissance faires because it really is held in the pure woods. Expect this to be a small event but where practically every attendee is an enthusiastic geek in costume! Charlton, MA. |
Outdoor Movie: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl | Boston Metro
Tue 8/16 |
Events INSIDER lists 64 summer outdoor movie series! Here is one, to be held near the Museum of Science. To see the rest, just scroll way to the bottom of this issue. Community Boating, 21 Mugar Way, Boston, MA. |
Lowell Southeast Asian Water Festival | Northern Mass
Sat 8/20 |
Lowell will have dragon boat races and performance including “Monkey Dancers” and rap in Khmer. Awesome! Lowell Heritage State Park Esplanade & Sampas Pavilion, 500 Pawtucket Blvd, Lowell, MA. |
Quincy August Moon Festival | South Shore
Sun 8/21 |
Also Asian, did you miss last week’s Chinese August Moon Festival? It’s not too late! Come catch it in Quincy, with dragon dancing and lots of cute kids performing outdoors. Downtown Quincy, 1400-1600 Hancock St., Quincy, MA.617-472-2200. |
Race of the Century: Horses, Cars, and Airplanes | Metro West
Sat 8/20 – Sun 8/21 |
I swear I am not making this up. Here is a festival where they will race horses, cars, and airplanes! Stow, MA. |
Jaffrey Festival of Fireworks | New Hampshire
Sat 8/20 |
Need an excuse to spend a weekend hiking in New Hampshire? They’ll have live music, games for kids (what about us adults?), a skydiving performance and then fireworks “after dusk”. Rain or shine. 4-10pm. Jaffrey Airport Rte. 124, 190 Turnpike Road, Jaffrey, NH. |
Historic Hillsborough Living History Event | New Hampshire
Sat 8/20 – Sun 8/21 |
Also in Southern New Hampshire is this amazing event that includes a Mark Twain re-enactor and a Civil War performance that National Public Radio calls a “living national treasure”. Hillsboro, NH. |
Carnival in Provincetown | Cape Cod
Sun 8/14 – Fri 8/19 |
You don’t speak the name of New England’s big gay carnival. You sing it, thusly, It’s time for CAAAAARN-I-VAAAAL!! This year features Charo, a parade, oh heck, the entire town is basically a parade for a week! All Over, Provincetown, MA.800-637-8696. |
East Boston Pride Day | Boston Metro
Sat 8/20 |
Can’t get out to Provincetown for Carnival? This is a novelty, a liberal festival in a (presumably) conservative neighborhood, and they’ll have steel drums and jugglers and more, with 2,500 people on the street. Piers Park, East Boston, MA. |
Boston Carnival (Caribbean Festival) | Boston Metro
Sun 8/21 – Sat 8/27 |
It’s also carnival time in Boston! (But most of the best stuff like parades are actually the following week.). Franklin Park, Boston, MA.617-635-3911. |
Ford / Lincoln Day at Larz Anderson Museum | Boston Metro
Sun 8/21 |
Yes, I’m going to keep listing Museum of Transporation events until you finally go. We’re so lucky to have a world class auto museum in New England, and what, you haven’t been? 15 Newton Street, Brookline, MA.617-522-6547. |
Bicycle Day at the Museum of Transportation | Boston Metro
Sat 8/20 |
And the Museum that has so many car shows is having one for bicycles! Come see some real old-timers, and have breakfast and lunch on-site. 15 Newton Street, Brookline, MA.617-522-6547. |
Boston by Bike at Night | Boston Metro
Sat 8/20 |
This bicycle event is an architectural and historic tour, which starts at midnight and goes to dawn with a “pot luck” breakfast. Can’t you guys just go to a diner? meet at 11:15pm. Bring something for breakfast Sunday in Christopher Columbus Park. Run by the Back Bay Midnight Pedalers. The website is old but I confirmed this by phone. Trinity Church, 206 Clarendon St., Boston, MA.617-522-0259. |
Boston Greenfest | Boston Metro
Thu 8/18 – Sat 8/20 |
I’ve been to Boston Greenfest, and on the plus side, it’s a giant festival on Boston City Hall Plaza with a few art displays and information about green energy. However, it’s mainly a commercial affair with tons of vendors. Well, there will be live music all day. And it’s easy to get to! But it’s not at the tippity top of this week’s list. City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA. |
Map and Compass | Boston Metro
Sat 8/20 |
In this event, you learn to use a map to wander the wilderness. As for me, I’ll just use the built-in GPS in my mobile phone. Call for location, Boston, MA.617-698-1802 x310. |
Civil War Encampment on Puddle Dock | New Hampshire
Sat 8/20 – Sun 8/21 |
This re-enactment features an entire encampment of Civil War soldiers, and it’s a great way to interactively learn about history by chatting with them and seeing their weapons demonstration. It all takes place at one of New England’s very few re-enactment museums, Strawbery Banke, which illustrates the life of settlers around 1900. And it’s quite close to Boston. Portsmouth, NH. |
Jamaica Plain Music Festival | Boston Metro
Sat 8/20 |
Jamaica Plain is having their first-ever pure music festival, with 20 bands on two stages. 1-7pm. I don’t know if it will be good, but it sure will be easy to get to! Jamaica Plain, MA. |
White Mountain Boogie N’ Blues Festival (and Fireworks) | New Hampshire
Fri 8/19 – Sun 8/21 |
If you’re going to New Hampshire, why not go for the whole weekend and see this music fest and fireworks, too! Lincoln, NH. |
Fireworks at the Ocean Park by the Sea | Southeast Mass
Fri 8/19 |
You shouldn’t need an excuse to visit Martha’s Vinyard, with its beaches, carousel, and tiny museums and shops. But this fireworks show is a great one! I’ve seen it, and it was fantastically impressive. And I’ve seen a lot of fireworks. Ocean Park, Oak Bluffs, MA.508-693-5380. |
Sandcastle and Sculpture Day (Nantucket) | Southeast Mass
Sat 8/20 |
On the “other” vacation island: I’ve always wanted to check out this event, but it’s just very hard to actually get to Nantucket Island. How about flying: Cape Air, 800-352-0714, Nantucker Airlines 800-635-8787, Island Airlines 800-248-7779, or ferry from Cape Cod? Nantucket Island, MA.508-228-1700. |
Nantucket Demolition Derby | Southeast Mass
Sat 8/20 – Sun 8/21 |
Fitting in nicely with the ultra-classy island where the rich go to sun themselves: it’s a demolition derby. Look what’s happened to the neighborhood! Nantucket Island. |
Marshfield Fair | South Shore
Fri 8/19 – Sun 8/28 |
The summer is full of agricultural festivals, but this one’s quite close to Boston. They’ll have a demolition derby, 2 music tents, a carnival, and a “battle of the bands”. My idea: put the bands in the demolition derby cars. Now THAT’s a battle! Route 3A at South River St., Marshfield, MA.781-834-6629. |
Fisherman’s Festival (Madonna Del Soccorso) | Boston Metro
Thu 8/18 – Sun 8/21 |
I’ve never been to one of the North End Italian festivals, and maybe I should, because I normally assume that unless you’re a Catholic they are to be avoided. Still, it’s free and there’s a procession on Sunday which must be fun if you really believe that Jesus and his mother were white people. North Street, Boston, MA.617-248-0343. |
Tavern Talk | Metro West
Sat 8/20 |
I love re-enactments! This one features colonials talking about current events circa 1774 in a local tavern. And it’s free! 1:30pm and 2:45pm, plus other events this day. Hartwell Tavern, Rt. 2A, Lincoln, MA. |
Picnic with the John and Abigail Adams, Grape Island | Boston Metro
Sat 8/20 |
Although perhaps the best place for a re-enactment is the BAH-ston HAH-bah Islands. Actors play former US President and First Lady, John and Abigail Adams in this one. Grape Island, Boston, MA. |
Free Fun Friday at the Boston Harbor Islands | Boston Metro
Fri 8/19 |
Or go the previous day, when the Harbor Islands are free! (I think this means the ferry is free?) And a bunch of other things are free, too, like the USS Constitution. Charlestown Navy Yard, Boston, MA.617-426-1812. |
Rock and Blues Cruise – our review | Boston Metro
Sun 8/21 |
The last cruise of the Rock and Blues Cruise season happens Sunday August 21 at 2pm, featuring Entrain with special guest Sun Jones. Click for our review! Boston, MA. |
Star Party on the River | Boston Metro
Fri 8/19 |
Join astronomers and learn how to view the stars. Bring a blanket or chair, bug spray and a flashlight. Not just for kids. 8pm. Hutchinson Field, Adams St, Milton, MA. |
Snow in Summer Celebration | Boston Metro
Sun 8/21 |
Or the day after, Santa comes to the Boston Harbor Islands and there will be storytelling too. Definitely a kids thing, but hey, I AM a big kid. Boston Harbor Islands, Boston, MA. |
Christmas in August | Rhode Island
Sat 8/20 |
Santa also visits this Rhode Island beach, bringing toys and free pizza. Thanks, Santa! Westerly, RI. |
Nashua Valley Folk Festival / Wachusett Valley Folk Festival | Metro West
Sun 8/21 |
Whomever listed this in Yankee Magazine’s Top 20 Massachusetts Events must have been drunk, 20 years in a row. To see my own list of Top 20 events, email johnny@eventsinsider.com to get my 2011 Summer Events Guide. Wachusett Village Inn, 9 Village Inn Road, Lancaster, MA. |
The Salem Jazz and Soul Festival. Salem, MA | North Shore
Sat 8/20 – Sun 8/21 |
This looks more interesting, and a good excuse to spend the whole weekend on the North Shore. It seems to be outdoors. Salem Willows, 167 Fort Avenue, Salem, MA. |
Eastern Massachusetts Rhythm Festival | Worcester
Sat 8/20 |
This one looks more interesting, because it’s interactive! Hand drumming, percussion, dance, and African and bellydance workshops. River Bend Visitors Center, 287 Oak St., Uxbridge, MA.508-278-3391. |
Latin American Festival at Worcester City Hall | Worcester
Sat 8/20 |
Also in the Worcester area, there’s nothing wrong with this ethnic festival. It just seems to be fairly ordinary: music, vendors, and food. Worcester City Hall, 455 Main Street, Worcester, MA.508-798-1900. |
Comcast Latino Family Festival | Boston Metro
Sun 8/21 |
This one, while closer to Boston, appears to be indoors, and even less of a real “festival”, rather a sit down performance. Fenway Park, Boston, MA. |
Pirate Party at Wenham Museum | North Shore
Tue 8/23 |
The good news: it’s a pirate party! The bad news: it’s during work hours. 1-3pm. Rain or Shine. Pre-registration required. Learn fencing, and take part in a model ship battle on the water. Wenham Museum, 132 Main Street, Wenham, MA.978-468-2377. |
Winslow Farm Kids Day & Treasure Hunt | Southeast Mass
Sat 8/20 – Sun 8/21 |
Winslow farm is in the middle of nowhere but is surprisingly wonderful to discover! This weekend is their anniversary celebration and they’ll have treasure hunts, kids games, live music, and more. Winslow Farm, 37 Eddy Street, Norton, MA.508-285-6451. |
Children’s Festival & Talent Competition | New Hampshire
Mon 8/15 – Fri 8/19 |
This childrens festival is conveniently right when most of us are working, Monday to Friday, and includes a giant costume competition. Well, it’s free. Hampton Beach, Hampton Beach, NH. |
Mahrajan 2010 | New Hampshire
Fri 8/19 – Sun 8/21 |
This Middle Eastern festival features music, carnival games, the ubiquitous face painting, a camel, and “hookah rentals”. You can also rent backgammon boards (now there’s a festival!). Manchester, NH. |
Springfield Caribbean Week | Springfield
Fri 8/12 – Sat 8/20 |
The best part of this Caribbean week is the 2nd weekend, when there’s a talent show and a parade. Springfield, MA. |
Westfield Fair | Springfield
Fri 8/19 – Sun 8/21 |
This one’s smaller but perhaps more convenient if you’re going to Springfield. Westfield, MA. |
Steak Bake, Firemen’s Muster, Fireworks | Western Mass
Sat 8/20 |
Although perhaps I might prefer to see the fireworks of this event, part of Great Barrington’s 250th Anniversary. Great Barrington, MA. |
Hardwick County Fair | Worcester
Fri 8/19 – Sat 8/20 |
Beyond the usual sheep and cattle, they’ll have a lumberjack contest, hay rides, and frog jumping at this one! Town Common, Rt 32A, Hardwick, MA. |
Mobsters & Lobsters of Boston | Boston Metro
Thu 8/18 |
Boston has all manner of trollery tours, but this one features Boston’s historic underworld and gangland, followed by an Italian feast and wine tasting. I hate to see anyone glorify the adventure of mob life, but it’s all in good fun and raises money for a Dorchester charity. 6:30-10pm. Waterfront at the Boston Aquarium, Boston, MA. |
Frog Appreciation Day at Frog Pond | Boston Metro
Sat 8/20 |
Frog Appreciation Day is clearly just for kids, but you can learn about frogs, participate in frog games, and wade around in the pool on Boston Common. Frog Pond, Boston Common, Boston, MA. |
Summer Safari Scavenger Hunt | Southeast Mass
Sun 8/21 |
Perhaps this scavenger hunt at a real zoo is the best place to learn about animals! The Southwick Zoo is the largest in New England, with giraffes, chimpanzees, and a lot more! 2 Southwick Street, Mendon, MA.800-258-9182. |
Newport Storm Luau | Rhode Island
Sat 8/20 |
I would have ranked this higher but it seems to be an alcohol bash thing. Can’t you find ANYTHING more creative to do than getting buzzed? But they’ll have live music, fire spinning dancers, Hawaiian themes, Polynesian dance, and tours of the fort. And the venue is beautiful. Fort Adams State Park, Newport, RI. |
Verrill Farm Corn & Tomato Festival | Metro West
Sat 8/20 |
I haven’t been to Verrill Farm yet, but they’re continually having interesting events. This one includes hay & pony rides, and a petting zoo. 11 Wheeler Road, Concord, MA.978-369-4494. |
Free Art & Music Festival | Boston Metro
Sat 8/20 |
I don’t understand this festival very well, but it’s free and features several musicians — and, I suppose, art! 2-10pm. 70 Colby St, Medford MA. |
Eerie Camp Tales | Cape Cod
Fri 8/19 |
Halloween is 2 months away, but it’s never too early for scary stories around a campfire and smores! 8pm. East Sandwich, MA. |
Cape Cod Museum of Art Annual Art Auction | Cape Cod
Sat 8/20 |
I must have promised someone I would list this, as I would normally avoid an ‘event’ that is basically a sale for rich people to buy art. Still, there will be dancing to live music, and it’s a good cause. Dennis, MA. |
Downtown Gloucester Block Party | North Shore
Sat 8/20 |
Gloucester has blocks. They also have parties. Gloucester, MA. |
Gloucester Waterfront Festival | North Shore
Sat 8/20 |
This street festival is more enticing, I think, if you’re going to be on the North Shore. Gloucester, MA. |
Creative Souls Art & Music Festival | Northern Mass
Sat 8/20 |
I’ve been to this venue in Greenfield. It’s tiny, but creative and fun. It’s a good destination to mix with doing a few others on the same day in the area. 11am-3pm. Energy Park, Milles St., Greenfield, MA. |
Washington County Fair | Rhode Island
Wed 8/17 – Sun 8/21 |
It’s the largest agricultural fair in RI. Does that make it worth visiting? Yes, if you choose something else fun while you’re visiting the area. Washington County Fairgrounds, Richmond Townhouse Rd., Carolina, RI.401-782-8139. |
South Coast Rhode Island Open Studios | Rhode Island
Sat 8/20 – Sun 8/21 |
Rhode Island is getting into the “Open Studios” craze. Artists open their private homes and work studios to the public. It’s a fun excuse to tour the area on your own and meet some real artists. Tiverton, RI.401-816-0000. |
Pigs Can Fly at Colt Park – Potluck | Rhode Island
Sun 8/21 |
This is a kite festival that I wasn’t able to learn much about. But good people attend as hobbyists — you can learn a lot about kites! Colt Park, Bristol RI. |
Neighborhood Fun Days in Fall River | Southeast Mass
Tue 8/16 |
Fall River is having a festival with the usual moonbounce and unspecified games, music, and arts & crafts. 4-7pm. Fall River, MA. |
Hoosic River Ride | Western Mass
Sat 8/20 |
This one’s way out west, but hey — stop by the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (Mass MoCA)! Williamstown, MA. |
Boston Restaurant Week – Summer | Boston Metro
Sun 8/14 – Fri 8/19 |
Get cheap eats at the fanciest restaurants. A marketing ploy, a tourist event, what’s the difference? Pay $33 and say, What, this is your DISCOUNTED dinner? Various, Boston, MA. |
Rabbi/Stand-Up Comic to Perform | Lowell
Sat 8/20 |
A rabbi walks into a bar… and does a stand up show! Temple, 87 Richardson Rd, North Chelmsford, MA. |
Skowhegan State Fair | Maine
Thu 8/11 – Sat 8/20 |
Why travel up to Fiesta Shows when they have their traveling carnival coming again and again to an area near you? Skowhegan, ME. |
Maine Highland Games | Maine
Sat 8/20 |
If I were traveling, I’d go to this beach, which is genuinely amazing. They’ll have athletics, all kinds of music and dance, and booths where you can join whichever Scottish “clan” you like. Thomas Point Beach, Brunswick, ME.207-688-4515. |
Great Falls Balloon Festival | Maine
Fri 8/19 – Sun 8/21 |
I really want to see this too! About 2.5 hours’ drive from Boston, featuring 30 balloons. Reserve ahead for your ride. Lewiston, ME.800-639-6331. |
Sign up Early for Wildfire: A Fire Arts Event | Connecticut
Fri 9/16 – Mon 9/19 |
Would you like to learn to “spin” fire? That means basically dancing with flaming balls on strings. Ashford, CT. |
Riverfront Dragon Boat and Asian Festival | Connecticut
Sat 8/20 – Sun 8/21 |
The dragon boat festival concept goes beyond Pawtucket and Lowell, apparently! Hartford, CT. |
Fort Hill Farms Corn Maze Adventure | Connecticut
Sat 8/20 – Mon 10/31 |
Here’s another corn maze for those who “Connect” New York and Boston. 260 Quaddick Road, Thompson, CT. |
Dinosaur State Park Day | Connecticut
Sat 8/20 |
It’s just 2 hours from Boston – a museum built around actual dinosaur footprints. I’ve seen it and it’s highly recommended. And they’ll be having their annual festival. 400 West Street, Rocky Hill, CT.860-529-8423. |
Bridgewater Country Fair | Connecticut
Fri 8/19 – Sun 8/21 |
And this agricultural fair appears to be huge, if you’re in the area, with a parade and carnival. Bridgewater, CT. |
Antique Marine Engine Exposition | Connecticut
Sat 8/20 – Sun 8/21 |
This festival shows off all manner of all-timey boats. Mystic, CT. |
Outdoor Theatre & Events | grade | Mon 8/15 | Tue 8/16 | Wed 8/17 | Thu 8/18 | Fri 8/19 | Sat 8/20 | Sun 8/21 | Mon 8/22 |
Boston MetroVariousShakespeare on Love | W | R | |||||||
more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MAWaterfront Performing Arts Series | T | ||||||||
2011: 6-8pm. Boston Ballet, Boston Lyric Opera, Riverside Theatre Works and the Boston Pops. Christopher Columbus Park, 105 Atlantic Ave more |
|||||||||
Northern MassGreenfield, MAEnergy Park Music Series | R | S | |||||||
2011: Various times. more |
|||||||||
WorcesterWorcester MAWorcester Shakespeare Festival | W | R | F | S | S | ||||
2011: Shows 7pm except Sundays, which vary. Memorical Grove Amphitheatre, Green Hill Park more |
|||||||||
Western MassLenox, MAFree Outdoor Bankside Festival | T | W | R | F | S | S | |||
Every performance in the Rose Footprint Theatre is outdoors. Rose Footprint Theatre more |
|||||||||
Western MassPittsfield, MA“Shades of the Revolution” A Ghostly Re-Enactment of People, Places and Scenes from Pittsfield’s Past | R | ||||||||
2011: 7pm. Pittsfield Cemetery, 203 Wahconah St more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandProvidence, RISummer in the Mix: King Lear | T | W | R | ||||||
2011: All shows are outdoors. Eve shows at 7:30pm, matinees at 4pm. All Shows are “Pay-What-You-Can” Events. Various, 401-305-7333. more |
|||||||||
New HampshireSalem, NHCanobie Lake Park Fireworks | S | ||||||||
more |
|||||||||
New HampshirePortsmouth, NHPrescott Park Arts Festival | R | F | S | S | |||||
2011: Outdoor theatre and live music. The Wizard of Oz, Thu 7pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 8pm, Sun 7pm, with matinees. Prescot Park, Marcy St at Mechanic St, 603-436-2848. more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutGuilford, CTShakespeare on the Green | M | T | W | R | F | S | S | M | |
Some shows in a park, some on a boat! , 453-8134, x 301. more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutRidgefield, CTShakespeare on the Green: A Comedy of Errors | S | ||||||||
2011: Green Expo at 12pm then show at 2pm. more |
|||||||||
MaineOld Orchard Beach, MEFireworks @ Old Orchard Beach | R | ||||||||
2011: 9:45pm. Next to the Pier more |
Outdoor Movies | grade | Mon 8/15 | Tue 8/16 | Wed 8/17 | Thu 8/18 | Fri 8/19 | Sat 8/20 | Sun 8/21 | Mon 8/22 |
Boston MetroBoston, MAMagic 106.7 Family Film Festival | S | ||||||||
2011: Entertainment at 6pm, movies at sundown. Lawn at the Prudential Center more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MAMayor Menino’s Movie Night | T | ||||||||
2011: Toy Story 3 at dusk. The Playstead, Franklin Park, Dorchester, (617) 442-4141. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MANeponset River Greenway Festival & Movie Series | R | ||||||||
2011: Events at “sunset”… 8pm-ish. Some events come with park activities beforehand. 7/5: Daddy Day Care, 7/12: Iron Man 2, 7/19: Megamind, 7/26: Despicable Me, 8/2: How to Train Your Dragon, 8/4: How to Train Your Dragon, 8/9: Tangled, 8/11: Tangled, 8/18: Toy Story 3, 8/25: Rango. Tue: Martini Shell, Truman Pkwy, Hyde Park. Thu: Pope John Paul Park, Gallivan Blvd, Dorchester, 617-542-7696. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MAOutdoor – Movies by Moonlight | F | ||||||||
2011: Silver screen and modern classics. Fridays. Free. Start at “dusk”. 70 Rowes Wharf, 617.439.7000. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MAWBZ Free Friday Flicks at the Hatch Shell | F | ||||||||
2011: Fridays at “sundown” (about 8:30pm, come early and bring a picnic dinner) at the hatch shell on the Esplanade. Esplanade, 617-787-7200. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroCambridge, MAScreen on the Green | W | ||||||||
2011: Movies are preceded by a performance at 7pm. Various parks, 617-349-6200. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroCambridge, MASummer in the City Movies | R | ||||||||
2011: 7pm performance, then movie. Rain date 7 days later. Varies, sometimes Bank at 292 Cambridge St. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroSomerville, MACity of Somerville Annual Movie Series | R | ||||||||
2011: Dusk. Various locations, 617-666-3311. more |
|||||||||
South ShoreHingham, MAMovies at Hingham Shipyard | F | ||||||||
2011: At dusk. Hingham Shipyard more |
|||||||||
South ShoreWeymouth, MAWeymouth Summer Outdoor Movies | R | ||||||||
2011: 8pm. Ralph Talbot Amphitheatre next to Town Hall, 781-682-6124. more |
|||||||||
Southeast MassNorton, MAMovies Under the Stars | F | S | |||||||
2011: 8:15pm. Winslow Farm, 37 Eddy Street more |
|||||||||
North ShoreSalem, MASalem Movie on the Common (part of Salem Heritage Days) | R | ||||||||
2011: 7 PM Sponsored by Town of Salem & Salem Common Neighborhood Association. more more |
|||||||||
North ShoreSwampscott, MAFamily Movie Night | R | ||||||||
2011: 8:30pm. 7/27: Despicable Me. 8/18: Casablanca. Linscott Park, 781-596-8854. more |
|||||||||
Cape CodFalmouth, MAMovies Under the Stars | W | ||||||||
2011: Films begin at dusk. Rain date Sep 25. Peg Noonan Park, Main Street, 508-540-7724, 508-487-3424. more |
|||||||||
New HampshireHampton Beach, NHMonday Night Movies on the Beach | M | M | |||||||
2011: at dusk. more |
|||||||||
New HampshireNorth Conway, NHMovies on the Green | T | ||||||||
Settlers Green Outlet, Rt 16, 603-356-7031 x10. more more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandNewport, RIMovies on the Rock | W | ||||||||
2011: at dusk. more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandProvidence, RIMovies on the Block | R | ||||||||
2011: Dusk. Also Pineapple Express 9/22, Purple Rain on 9/29, and Withnail & I (which is AWESOME and HILARIOUS) on 10/6. Westminster St at Union St more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandWesterly, RIBig Screen Movie on the Beach @ Westerly | T | ||||||||
2011: 8:30pm Kids-oriented. Misquamicut Beach, 401-596-7761 or 401-348-2597. more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutMontville, CTSaturday Night at the Movies | F | ||||||||
2011: Certain Fridays at dusk. Cancelled if rain; check website for rain dates. Camp Oakdale Large Pavilion, 860-848-3030. more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutTorrington, CTMovie Nights @ Coe Memorial Park | T | ||||||||
2011: 7:30pm music, then movie. Coe Memorial Park more |
Outdoor Music | grade | Mon 8/15 | Tue 8/16 | Wed 8/17 | Thu 8/18 | Fri 8/19 | Sat 8/20 | Sun 8/21 | Mon 8/22 |
Boston MetroBelmont, MAPayson Park Music Festival | W | ||||||||
2011: 6:45pm except Fridays which are 12pm kiddie concerts. Payson Park, 617-993-2760. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MAArts on the Arcade | W | ||||||||
2011: Art vendors 11 AM-3 PM with live music 12-2 PM.. City Hall Plaza more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MABerklee at Spectacle Island | S | ||||||||
2011: 1-4 PM. Spectacle Island, 617-223-8108. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MABoston Phoenix/WFNX block parties | R | ||||||||
2011: 5- 8 PM. Summer Street more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MAConcerts in the Courtyard at Boston Public Library | F | ||||||||
2011: Fridays 12:30-1:30 PM. Lineup TBA. Central Library in Copley Square, 617-536-5400. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MAHarborWalk Sounds & Free ICA Night | R | ||||||||
2011: Live music: various types, outside the ICA, which is free Thursday nights. Institute for Contemporary Art more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MALandmarks Orchestra Summer Concerts | W | ||||||||
2011: 7 PM. Free. The July 31st show will be at the Pinebank Promontory in JP. At the Hatch Shell more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MAMFA Concerts in the Courtyard | W | ||||||||
2011: Concerts at 7:30 PM. Museum of Fine Arts, 617-369-3189. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MANight Life at Childrens’ Wharf | W | ||||||||
2011: 6-9pm. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MARock and Blues Concert Cruises | S | ||||||||
more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MASpecial Live Concerts at Boston Harbor Hotel | T | W | R | ||||||
Outdoor music: Soul on Tuesdays, Oldies on Wednesdays, Blues on Thursdays, all 6-10pm. Rowes Wharf, Boston Harbor Hotel more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MASummer Music Series in Norman Leventhal Park | T | R | |||||||
2011: 12-2 PM. Post Office Square more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MATitus Sparrow Park Summer Concert Series | W | ||||||||
2011: 6:30pm. Titus Sparrow Park, South End, 617-918-5289. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MAWaterfront Performing Arts Series | T | ||||||||
2011: 6-8pm. Christopher Columbus Park more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroBoston, MAWhole Note Wednesdays | W | ||||||||
2011: Jazz every Wednesday 6-9 PM. Free. The Liberty Hotel, 215 Charles Street, 617-244-4000. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroCambridge, MACentral Square Music in the Square | R | ||||||||
Times? Called. Central Square more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroCambridge, MAClub Passim Summer Concert Series | R | ||||||||
2011: 1-2 PM. 47 Palmer St. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroCambridge, MAKendall Square Concert Series | R | ||||||||
2011: 12-1:30pm. 300 Athenaeum Street, 617 577-7354. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroCambridge, MALongfellow Family Sundays Art in the Park | S | ||||||||
2011: Mostly family and children-oriented. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Most events 1-3:30 PM. 105 Brattle Street, 617-876-4491. more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroCambridge, MASummer in the City | M | R | |||||||
Various times & places. Various more |
|||||||||
Boston MetroWoburn, MASummer Concert Series | F | ||||||||
2011: 7-9 pm. Rain dates a week later. Jack Marlowe Park in Woburn Center, 781-935-5820. more |
|||||||||
Metro WestConcord, MAMusic at the Manse Concert Series | S | ||||||||
2011: Most Sundays 2-4pm. And Sep 26. The Old Manse, 269 Monument Street, 978.369.3909. more more |
|||||||||
Metro WestLexington, MASummer Concert Series | F | ||||||||
2011: 6:30pm. Lexington Visitors Center, 1875 Massachusetts Ave., 781-862-2480.. more |
|||||||||
Metro WestLexington, MATuesday Night Concerts | T | ||||||||
2011: 7:15pm. Hastings Bandstand, Worthen Road at Old Mass Ave, 781-862-0500 x707. more |
|||||||||
Metro WestMarlborough, MASummer Concert Series at Marlborough | R | ||||||||
2011: 7-9pm. more |
|||||||||
Metro WestNorwood, MASunday Evening Concerts on the Common, Norwood | M | ||||||||
2011: 7pm. Wed schedule best guess. Town Common, Washington St & Nahatan St more more |
|||||||||
Metro WestSudbury, MASummer Concert Series at Sudbury | M | ||||||||
2011: 7 PM. If rain, moves to Fairbank Community Center Gym. End dates TBA. Haskell Field, 979-639-2356. more |
|||||||||
North ShoreDanvers, MASummer Concert Series at Danvers | M | M | |||||||
2011: 6pm. Danvers Rotary Pavilion, 978-777-0001 x3094. more |
|||||||||
North ShoreGloucester, MAGloucester Block Party | S | ||||||||
2011: 6-10:30pm. Main Street, from Pleasant to Washington more |
|||||||||
North ShoreIpswich, MACastle Hill Summer Picnic Concerts | R | ||||||||
Dancing & music overlooking Crane Beach. Come at 6pm for swing dance lessons! Call ahead to order a picnic dinner basket. Castle Hill, 978-356-4351 x4015. more |
|||||||||
North ShoreLowell, MALowell Summer Music Series | F | S | |||||||
2011: Music 7:30pm-10pm. Boarding House Park more |
|||||||||
North ShoreLynn, MASummer Beach Concerts | R | ||||||||
Red Rock Park on the beach at Lynn Shore Drive. more |
|||||||||
North ShoreSalisbury, MASurfSide Live! | S | ||||||||
2011: 7:30- 10 PM followed by fireworks! Salisbury Beach Center, 3 Broadway Street more |
|||||||||
North ShoreTopsfield, MATopsfield Concerts on the Common | S | ||||||||
2011: 4-6pm. Town Common more |
|||||||||
LowellBillerica, MASummer Concerts on the Common at Billerica | T | ||||||||
2011: 7pm. Town Common, 978-671-0921. more |
|||||||||
Northern MassGardner, MAConcerts in the Parks | S | ||||||||
2011: 6pm. Monument Park more |
|||||||||
South ShoreHingham, MALive Music at the Hingham Shipyard | F | ||||||||
2011: Fridays at 7pm. more |
|||||||||
South ShoreMiddleboro, MASummer Concert Series at Soule Homestead | S | ||||||||
2011: Shows start at 6pm. Rain or shine (if it rains they’ll go inside). 46 Soule Street more |
|||||||||
Southeast MassDartmouth, MASummer Concert Series at Dartmouth | W | ||||||||
2011: 6:30-8:30 PM. Not free. more |
|||||||||
Southeast MassMansfield, MAConcerts on the Common at Mansfield | W | ||||||||
2011: 7pm. If rain, town hall or church. South Common more |
|||||||||
Southeast MassMartha’s Vinyard, MAMusical Mondays at Featherstone | M | ||||||||
2011: 6:30pm- 8pm. Featherstone more |
|||||||||
Southeast MassNantucket, MASummer Concerts at Children’s Beach | S | ||||||||
2011: 6-7:15pm. Children’s Beach more |
|||||||||
Southeast MassSharon, MALakeside Concert Series | W | ||||||||
2011: 7 pm. Memorial Park Beach Bandstand, Lake Massapoag more |
|||||||||
Southeast MassWestport, MAWestport Rivers Winery Concert Series | F | ||||||||
2011: 6-8 PM. $5 per car load. 417 Hixbridge Rd, 508-636-3423. more |
|||||||||
Southeast MassWrentham, MAConcert on the Common | S | ||||||||
2011: 6:30-8:30pm. Town Common more |
|||||||||
WorcesterMilford, MAFamily Night at the Bandstand | T | ||||||||
Some shows are NOT in Milford! 2011: 6:30-8:30pm. Bandstand music. Rain dates following Thursday. Milford Town Park, Congress & Walnut Street, 508-478-5924. more |
|||||||||
WorcesterSturbridge, MASturbridge Summer Concerts | R | ||||||||
2011: 6pm. Town Common, 508-347-2506. more |
|||||||||
WorcesterUpton, MASweet Summer Nights Music Series | F | S | |||||||
2011: Fridays from 7-8:30 PM and Sundays 1-5 PM. Events continue through September. Rain or shine. more |
|||||||||
WorcesterWorcester, MAOut to Lunch Concert Series | F | ||||||||
2011: 11am-2pm. Worcester Common more |
|||||||||
SpringfieldSpringfield, MABike Night at Stearns Square | R | ||||||||
2011: 7:30-9pm. Rain or shine. Stearns Square more |
|||||||||
SpringfieldWest Springfield, MAFamily Concert Series at West Springfield | R | D | |||||||
2011: Various times. Various more |
|||||||||
SpringfieldWestfield, MAMusical Moments In Amelia’s Garden | T | ||||||||
2011: Free. Rain or shine. 21 South Broad Street more |
|||||||||
SpringfieldWestfield, MASummer Sounds Concert Series | T | ||||||||
2011: 6:30PM. Municipal parking lot on Church Street, 413-572-1260. more |
|||||||||
SpringfieldWestfield, MASunday Night Concerts at Westfield | S | ||||||||
2011: 6pm. Stanley Park more |
|||||||||
Western MassFlorence, MABenefit Concert | F | S | |||||||
Pines Theater, Look Park, 413.584.5457. more |
|||||||||
Western MassGreenfield, MACoop Concerts & More | R | S | |||||||
2011: Several different series going on. Check schedule for specifics. Greenfield Energy Park, 413-774-9949. more |
|||||||||
Western MassSouth Hadley, MASummer Concert Series at South Hadley, MA | R | ||||||||
2011: 6:30-8pm. Town Common, Rt 47 & Rt 116 more |
|||||||||
Western MassWilliamstown, MAConcerts at the Clark | T | ||||||||
2011: Other concerts on their calendar are indoors. 225 South St., 413-458-2303. more |
|||||||||
Cape CodBuzzards Bay, MAConcerts in the Park at Buzzards Bay | R | ||||||||
2011: 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Last date is a rain date. Park at the Gazebo more |
|||||||||
Cape CodFalmouth, MAFriday Summer Concerts on the Green | F | ||||||||
2011: 6pm. Peg Noonan Park, Main St, 508-362-0066. more more |
|||||||||
Cape CodHarwich, MAHarwich Town Band Free Concerts | T | ||||||||
2011: 7pm. No website but called to confirm. Aug 1st is at the tech school with a UK band in attendance. Brooks Park Band Stand, Harwich Center, Oak St, Cindy 508-432-3622. more |
|||||||||
Cape CodOnset, MASummer of Love Concerts | W | ||||||||
2011: 6:30pm. Onset Bandshell more more |
|||||||||
Cape CodOsterville, MASummer Concert Series | W | ||||||||
2011: 6-7pm. Library Lawn more |
|||||||||
Cape CodWest Yarmouth, MAYarmouth Monday Night Concerts | M | M | |||||||
2011: 7pm. Mattacheese Middle School Bandshell, Higgins Crowell Road, 508-778-1008. more |
|||||||||
New HampshireBartlett, NHSummer Concert in the Park | W | ||||||||
Called (Times?). Bartlett Village Community Park, 603-374-1952. more |
|||||||||
New HampshireBedford, NHBedford’s Family Cultural Series | T | ||||||||
2011: 6:30 ice cream, music 7pm. Rain location: Town Hall. Performance Stack (Pool Complex) more |
|||||||||
New HampshireGorham, NHSummer Concert Series | T | ||||||||
2011: 6:30pm. Gorham Common more |
|||||||||
New HampshireHancock, NHSummer Concert Series | R | ||||||||
2011: 7-8:30pm. Concerts held in church vestry in case of rain. Gazebo more |
|||||||||
New HampshireHenniker, NHHenniker Summer Concert Series | T | ||||||||
2011: 7pm. If rain, at Community Center. Bandstand, Community Park more |
|||||||||
New HampshireManchester, NHFriends of Stark Park Concert Series | S | ||||||||
2011: Mostly 2pm, check site. more |
|||||||||
New HampshireMerrimack, NHMerrimack Concert Association | W | ||||||||
2011: 7pm. Abbie Griffin Park Bandstand more |
|||||||||
New HampshireMilford, NHSounds on the Souhegan Summer Concert Series | W | ||||||||
2011: 7-8:30pm. Emerson Park more |
|||||||||
New HampshireNashua, NHSummerfun Outdoor Concerts at Nashua | M | ||||||||
Greeley Bandshell or Library Plaza. Fairy Tale Festival 7/17. Greeley Park more |
|||||||||
New HampshireNorth Woodstock, NHTown of Woodstock Free Concert Series | S | ||||||||
2011: 6:30-8:30pm. Soldier’s Park, 603-745-8752. more |
|||||||||
New HampshirePortsmouth, NHPrescott Park Arts Festival | W | ||||||||
Outdoor theatre and live music. Peter Pan! Prescot Park, Marcy St at Mechanic St, 603-436-2848. more |
|||||||||
New HampshireRochester, NHConcert on the Common Summer Music Series | T | ||||||||
2011: 7pm. more |
|||||||||
New HampshireSalem, NHField of Dreams Concerts | R | ||||||||
2010: 6:30pm. Field of Dreams more |
|||||||||
New HampshireSalem, NHTalent Search Night at Canobie Lake Park | R | ||||||||
2010: Hundreds compete for free park passes and a chance to record a professional demo CD. Register at 5:30pm. Canobie Lake Park more |
|||||||||
New HampshireTilton, NHSavina Hartwell Memorial Free Summer Concert | S | ||||||||
, 603-286-3000. more |
|||||||||
New HampshireWaterville Valley, NHSaturday Evening Concert Series | S | ||||||||
Town Square more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandCentral Falls, RIFree Sunday Summer Concert Series | S | ||||||||
Jenks Park, Broad St, 401-727-7490. more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandCoventry, RIConventry Summer Concert Series | S | ||||||||
2011: 6pm. If rain, Community Center Hall, 1277 Main St, Rte 117. Various more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandJamestown, RISummer Concert Series | S | ||||||||
2011: Concerts at 6:30pm. Memorial Square, (401) 423-7260. more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandNarragansett, RISummer Concerts at the Gazebo | F | ||||||||
2011: 6pm. Gazebo more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandNorth Kingstown, RINorth Kingstown Concert Series | T | ||||||||
2011: Tues 7pm, Kids performances Thu 6:30pm. Tues @ Wickford Town Dock, Thu @ Town Beach, (401) 294-3306. more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandPawtucket, RISundays/Tuesdays at City Hall Ampitheatre | T | S | |||||||
2011: Sundays 5pm, Tuesdays 6pm. No website but called to confirm. City Hall Ampitheatre more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandPawtucket, RISlater Park Concert Series | T | R | |||||||
2011: Tuesdays for kids, 5pm. Thursdays 6pm. No website but called to confirm. Slater Park more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandSouth Kingstown, RISummer Concerts at South Kingstown, RI | T | S | |||||||
2011: 6-7:30pm. Sun & Tue at Peace Dale Village Green, Mon at Marina Park. more |
|||||||||
Rhode IslandWarwick, RISummer Concert Series at Warwick, RI | W | ||||||||
2011: 6:30-8pm. more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutBranford, CTBranford Jazz on the Green Series | R | ||||||||
2010: 6:30-8:30pm. more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutBristol, CTSummer Concert Series at Bristol | T | ||||||||
2011: 7-8:30pm. Brackett Park more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutDanbury, CTCitycenter Summertime Festival | F | S | |||||||
2011: 7:30pm. CityCenter more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutEast Hartford, CTAnnual Sounds of Summer | R | ||||||||
2011: 6:30-8:30 PM. Not free. Town Green, 1047 Main St more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutFairfield, CTSummer Concerts at the Sherman Green Gazebo | W | S | |||||||
2011: 7pm, except 9/1, 9/2 @ 6:30pm. Sherman Green Gazebo more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutGreenwich, CTSummer Concert Series at Greenwich, CT | W | ||||||||
2011: 7:30pm. July 7 at Binney Park. July 31 @ 7pm. Roger Sherman Baldwin Park more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutGroton, CTSummer SoundWaves Concert Series | R | ||||||||
2011: 6-8pm. Aug 12 & 19 are rain dates. more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutNaugatuck, CTNaugatuck Summer Music Festival | T | ||||||||
2011: 7-9pm. Rain dates & locations vary. Town Green more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutNewtown, CTSummer Concert at Dickinson Park | F | ||||||||
2011: 6:30pm. more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutNorth Haven, CTMusic Under the Stars | T | ||||||||
2011: 7pm. Town Green more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutNorwalk, CTNorwalk Parks Concert Schedule | W | ||||||||
2011: 6 or 7pm. Rain dates one day later. Calf Pasture Beach, 203-854-7806. more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutShelton, CTMusic Under the Stars | W | ||||||||
2010: 7-9pm. , 203-331-4120. more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutThomaston, CTSummer Concert Series at Thomaston | M | ||||||||
2011: If rain, Black Rock Elementary School, 57 Branch Rd. Seth Thomas Park, South Main St more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutTorrington, CTSummer Concert Series at Torrington | T | ||||||||
2011: 7-9pm. Coe Memorial Park, Civic Center more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutTrumbull, CTSummer Concerts at Trumbull | T | ||||||||
2011: 7pm. Town Hall Gazebo more |
|||||||||
ConnecticutWindsor, CTSummer Concerts at Windsor, CT | R | ||||||||
2011: 7pm. Town Green more |
|||||||||
VermontDanville, VTConcerts on the Green | S | ||||||||
2011: 7pm. If rain, Danville United Methodist Church. more |
|||||||||
VermontManchester Center, VTThursday Night Summer Concerts on the Green | R | ||||||||
2010: 6-8pm. Town Green, 802-362-2100. more |
|||||||||
VermontStratton, VTSaturdays Under the Stars – Summer Concert Series | S | ||||||||
2010: 6-9pm. Stratton Mountain Ski Resort, 802.297.4FUN. 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!