July 2008 Archives

Hi all,

This week is a possibly record 72 quirky events. And that's not listing all the recurring stuff, like amusement parks and museums and beaches. Well, I list that too, on a huge spreadsheet. It's a good way to keep tabs on, for example, the Bruce Springsteen concert August 2nd, well in advance. I've set up my computer to update it regularly now, at http://www.crossintotheabyss.org/johnnys-list.xls

Celebrate Shakespeare Day, Aug 2, 2-6pm. Boston Common, Boston, MA. Definitely the event of the week! I've been and it's amazing. You can take a workshop on stage fighting, or see a workshop on projecting your voice, or even how to die on stage. It's amazing and if you don't go, shame on you. Also they do the Free Shakespeare afterwards, which is As You Like It, and it's awesome. http://www.citicenter.org/shows/lists/details.php?showID=423

A number of re-enactments are coming up, always a great combination of festival fun and nalidge learn'n:

-- Civil War Encampment, Jul 28-Aug 1. Wenham, MA. It's a good week for re-enactments! This one is targeted at a kids camp, but I went to one of their events last year and I have to believe that it's open to the public. http://www.wenhammuseum.org

-- From Redcoats to Rebels at Old Sturbridge Village, Aug 2-Aug 3. Sturbridge, MA. (508) 347-3362. I've been to this one, also, and it's nothing short of amazing. Re-enactors come representing 300 years of military history. Parade, fife & drum, camp cooking, cannon demo, kids activities, and a huge field battle re-enacted. http://www.osv.org/activitiesevents/eventcalendarmore.html?ID=503&DateID=1103

-- Battle of Brimfield - Civil War Encampment, Aug 2-Aug 3. Hitchcock Academy. "Blockade Runner" road race, fashion show, battle re-enactment. http://www.hearthfelt.com/civilwardaysaugust08.pdf

Davis MegaMaze Opens, Jul 31. Sterling, MA. It's the largest and best maze in New England and possibly the world. Made out of a corn field and with bridges making it "3-dimensional", you absolutely don't want to miss it. It will be open through the end of October, when they'll add non-spooky Halloween decorations. The opening ceremonies July 31st include skydivers and "olympic" competitions. If you call right away you can reserve a helicopter ride. http://davismegamaze.com

Ice Cream and Bats! Jul 31. Natick, MA. So here's the deal. A national park is serving ice cream and talking about nightlife. Not clubbing, they mean actual animal life at night. Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot Street, Natick, MA. 508-655-2296. 7:30-9pm. Registration is required. http://www.massaudubon.org/NatureConnection/Sanctuaries/Broadmoor/catalog.php?code=618-BR08SU3&sancName=Broadmoor&getresults=long

Special Fireworks Show at Canobie Lake Park, Aug 6 at 9:30pm. Canobie Lake Park is the 2nd largest amusement park in New England, and perhaps my favorite. It's so much classier than Six Flags, with an actual woodsy / lakeside setting and a less commercial feel. Although they have fireworks every Saturday throughout the summer (and a dance party every Friday), this one August 6th is their big blowout fireworks event. http://www.canobie.com/events.php

Drag Kickball Fundraiser, Aug 6. Provincetown, MA. Yes, kickball as played by people in drag. Awesome. http://provincetowntourismoffice.org or http://www.laurieroles.com/community.html

You Dance Fridays at the ICA, Aug 1. The Institute for Contemporary Art is the newest and trendiest museum in Boston. They are having swing dance classes outdoors, and it sounds like a great excuse to visit the ICA, which you should do anyway. http://www.bostonharborwalk.com/events or http://www.icaboston.org

Carl Davis' Charlie Chaplin Mutuals, Aug 2. I'm pleased to announce that Mass MoCA, which is like the ICA, but bigger, older, and way out in Western MA, is having a night of silent films with live music! http://www.massmoca.org/searchresults.php?st=6

Outdoor Family Night at NARA Park, Acton. July 31. No movie! Instead, balloon rides and an Elvis tribute band.http://acton-ma.gov/uploadedFiles/Departments/Recreation/ConcertSeries/Family%20Fun%20Night.pdf

Tutto Italiano Car Festival at the Larz Anderson Auto Museum, Aug 3. This is one of many festivals they're having on the lawn this summer. Brookline, MA. http://www.mot.org

Gardner Museum Summer Night, Jul 31. As you know the Gardner Museum is having late nights many Thursdays during the warm weather. Well, this one is apparently special, involving a DJ and a gallery talk, and is only $12. 280 The Fenway Boston, MA (617)566-1401 http://www.gardnermuseum.org/calendar/calendar.asp

Salem Maritime Festival, Aug 1-Aug 3. There's really no reason why you should attend the Salem Maritime Festival, except that it's a great excuse to visit Salem, which you should be doing anyway. Also, my favorite folk band will play, Atwater-Donnelly, 3-5pm on August 3. They're truly exceptional, highly recommended. 174 Derby Street Salem, MA. 978-740-1650. http://www.nps.gov/ner/customcf/apps/eventcalendar/events/samaevent99161187.html

Salem Heritage Days, Aug 1-Aug 10. The maritime festival is just part of a broader 'event' that has a Clown Day and a Comedy Night. http://salemnews.com/punews/localstory211225740.html

Salem Heritage Days Scooper Bowl, Aug 5. My favorite event on the Heritage Days Calendar. Basically you show up and eat so much ice cream that you freeze on the spot. http://www.salem-chamber.org

Newport Folk Festival, Aug 1-Aug 3. Newport, RI. Also a great excuse to check out the mansions and cliffwalk in Newport. The Black Crowes and Jimmy Buffett headline. Note: they do NOT serve a buffet at Jimmy Buffett events, and if you complain about unfair advertising they will throw you out. Um, so I've heard. http://www.newportfolk.com

Pittsfield NH Rotary Hot Air Balloon Rally, Aug 1-Aug 3. Pittsfield, NH. It's only 1.7 hrs from Boston and there aren't too many balloon festivals closer. They'll have helicopter rides, fireworks on August 2nd, and a "cow chips contest" that I really, really, do not want to hear more about. Here's a hint: always try to reserve in advance when you attend a balloon festival. http://www.pittsfield-nh.com/publicinfo/balloonfestival/index.htm

Beverly Homecoming Days, Aug 1-Aug 10. Beverly, MA. This kind of hometowny event is often worth visiting for a look at "real" New England. As well as the lame stuff like Bingo and a Baked Bean Contest, they'll have fireworks, a classic car show, balloon rides, and a hot dog eating contest. Ladies, step right up. http://www.beverlyhomecoming.com

Gloucester Best Dressed Dog Parade, Aug 2. I am totally not a dog person but I know many of you won't be able to resist 100 animals dressed up. 260 Main St. Gloucester, MA. http://www.capeannanimalaid.com

SkateBoston, Aug 1-Aug 3. Imagine a mob on a rampage, except they're all wearing inline skates. This event is not for amateur rollerbladers, but if you want to bicycle and join up they'll allow it. Meet at the Radisson Hotel, 777 Memorial Drive Cambridge, MA. http://www.skate-boston.com

Peace 2008 Hip Hop Festival, Aug 2 at 4pm. I guess this is one of these things where they try to make going gangsta less cool. http://www.cityofboston.gov/TridionImages/Proof6tcm1-1968.pdf

In Search of the Mohicans Quest, Aug 2. This seems to be some kind of clue hunt! http://www.thetrustees.org/pages/36949insearchofthemohicansquest.cfm

21st Hingham Invitational Ultimate Frisbee Championship, Aug 2-Aug 3. Devens, MA. This is out past Concord on Route 2. I'm not big into sports but I just think I'd be tickled to see athletes taking frisbee throwing so seriously. http://www.wfdf.org

Pan Mass Challenge, Aug 2-Aug 3. Bicycle for charity from Wellesley to Provincetown, for cancer research. My old buddy Harrison found me, I don't know how, but he found me! So I put in $40 and I believe he's got me locked in annualy for life. http://www.pmc.org

Mixology: Modern Dance. Aug 2. Union Square Plaza, Somerville, MA. Somerville is always serving up artistic performances in their endless quest to catch up with Cambridge and Boston. This week they're doing a pretty good job, with this modern dance event, which is free, at 5pm. http://synergydancecompany.com

Red Bones Annual Pig Pickin', Aug 4. A southern-style hog roast and street festival to benefit charity. Live music. 6-9pm. http://www.redbones.com

Taste of Boston, Aug 4. Boston City Hall Plaza. Information on this is sparse, but apparently, you show up, you eat. I cannot confirm this event is actually real. http://www.vacationsmadeeasy.com/BostonMA/eventCalendar/TheTasteofBostonatDowntownCrossinginBostonMA.cfm

Feast of the Blessed Sacrement (Portuguese), Jul 31-Aug 3. It's the largest Portuguese festival in United States. Madeira Field, New Bedford, MA 508-992-6911 Music, food, a parade on Sunday, 5K road race. Thu & Fri 6pm-12, Sat 11am-12am, Sun 12pm-12am. Free. http://www.portuguesefeast.com

Onset Blues Festival, Aug 2. The Bluff Onset, MA. 508-295-7072. http://www.onsetvillage.com

Various film festivals get in the way of enjoying the warm weather outdoors:

-- Martha's Vineyard African-American Film Festival, Aug 6-Aug 9. http://www.mvaaff.com/

-- Roxbury Film Festival, Jul 28-Aug 3. Roxbury, MA. http://www.actroxbury.org

-- Rhode Island International Film Festival, Aug 5-Aug 10. Providence, RI 401-861-4445 http://www.film-festival.org

Bruce Springsteen, Aug 2. One Patriot Place Foxboro, MA 508-543-0350 http://gillettestadium.com

The Fantasticks, a musical, Aug 6-Aug 9. I've heard it's supposed to be a good musical. Plaza Black Box Theatre, Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont Street, Boston, MA. Journeymen Theatreworks.

There's a Roslindale Summer Concert Series, every Thursday, for example Jul 31 at 6pm, in Adams Park, Washington St, Roslindale, MA. (617) 635-3911. Free.

Outdoor movies continue. The good news: they're free. The bad news: they apparently can't figure out when "dusk" might happen and don't usually list showtimes:

-- Boston, MA. Movies by Moonlight at the Boston Harbor Hotel. August 1. "Planet of the Apes (1968)". At dusk. 617-439-7000. http://www.bhh.com/specialeventcal.htm

-- Boston, MA. Mayor Menino's Monday Night Movies in Boston, Aug 4. "The Goonies". At "dusk". Parkman Bandstand, Boston Common, 139 Tremont St, Boston, MA. Franklin Park - The Playstead. http://www.cityofboston.gov/calendar/

-- Boston, MA. WBZ Free Friday Flicks @ Hatch Shell. Aug 1. "Surfs Up". At "sundown". 617-787-7200. Call hotline for cancellation info. http://www.mass.gov/dcr/hatchevents.htm

-- Cambridge, MA. Family Night in the Park. Aug 6. "10,000 BC", with a juggler beforehand. Sennott Park (Rain site: Area Youth IV Center). 617-349-6200. 7pm preshow then 8pm movie. http://www.cambridgema.gov/CityOfCambridgeContent/documents/FamilyNights.pdf

-- Dorchester, MA. Neponset River Greenway Festival & Movie Series. "Evan Almighty". July 31 at Pope John Paul II Park, Dorchester. August 5, "Surfs Up", Martini Shell, Hyde Park. 617-542-7696. All movies begin at sunset, around 7:30-8pm. http://www.bostonnatural.org

-- Revere, MA. National Night Out, including an unknown movie. 5:30-10pm at the Garfield School. Note the lack of telling us which movie at http://www.myrecdept.com/forms/1824s8.pdf and http://www.myrecdept.com/ma/revere/default2.asp

-- Beverly, MA. Aug 3. "Gremlins". 8:15pm. http://www.beverlyhomecoming.com/calendar.html

-- Salem, MA. Aug 1 ("The Beatles: A Hard Days Night") and Aug 7 (??). Movie on the Common, After Dark, 8:30 p.m., Salem Common. Title TBD, http://www.cityofsalem.net/departments/scserv/recreation/outdoorfilms.pdf and http://salemnews.com/punews/localstory211225740.html

-- Scituate, MA. Scituate Recreation's Outdoor Movie Night. Aug 1. "Cars". cituate, MA. 781-545-8738. http://www.town.scituate.ma.us/rec/summer08.pdf

-- Somerville, MA. City of Somerville Annual Movie Series. Jul 31. "Citizen Kane". At "dusk". Seven Hills Park, Davis Square, Somerville, MA. 617-666-3311. http://www.somervillema.gov/coscontent/documents/SomerMovie%20Poster%2020081.pdf

-- Someville, MA. Movies on the Mystic @ Assembly Square. Aug 3: "Antz". Films start at dusk, approximately 8:30pm. Bring your beach or lounge chairs to the lot adjacent to Assembly Square (behind Assembly Square Marketplace parking lot. http://www.assemblysquare.com

-- Weymouth, MA. Weymouth Summer Outdoor Movies. Jul 31. 6:30pm. "Wayne from Maine". http://www.weymouth.ma.us/news/news.asp?id=10117

-- Falmouth, MA. Wednesday Movies Under the Stars. Aug 6, "Surfs Up". Peg Noonan Park, Main Street, Falmouth, MA. 508-487-3424. At dusk. http://www.falmouthchamber.com/more/calendar/event/909

-- Onset, MA. Onset Bay Movie Co. Jul 31, "Shrek III". The Bandshell, behind 197 Onset Avenue, Onset, MA. 508-295-9026. http://www.myspace.com/obmco

Outdoor theatre:

-- Shakespeare on the Common - As You Like It. Jul 16-Aug 3. Boston Metro. Boston Common. Boston, MA. 617-532-1252. Free. I saw it this year and it was great!! Please go! At the Parade Grounds on Boston Common, near Beacon & Charles. Rent a chair for $5. http://www.freeshakespeare.org

-- The Seagull, by Anton Chekhov, to Sep 7, and Hay Fever, by Noel Coward, July 24 - Sep 14. Boston MA. http://www.publicktheatre.com

-- Love's Labour Lost, Aug 1-Aug 3. Fri 5pm, Sat 2:45pm, Sun 1:30pm. Free. Winthrop Park, JFK Street in Harvard Square, (Between Winthrop St. and Mt. Auburn St.) Outdoor theatre http://actorsshakespeareproject.org/season3/loveslaboursrevival.html

-- New England Shakespeare - The Comedie of Errors, to Aug 16. Sturbridge, MA. Sturbridge Town Common. 2pm, and Revere on the lawn of the American Legion Building, Thu 8/9, Fri 8/10 @ 6pm. And Robbins Farm Park, Arlington, 8/12 @ 5pm. http://www.newenglandshakespeare.org

-- Much Ado About Nothing, to Aug 16, Lowell, MA. http://www.newenglandshakespeare.org/summerperformanceschedule.htm
Yet more outdoor music series:

-- Improv on the Bricks. Aug 9-10. Improv comedy. Salem Theatre Company Free Outdoor Performance, 3:30-4:30p.m., Derby Square. 978-790-8546. http://www.salemtheatre.com

Continuing events:

-- George's Island Kite Day, to Aug 31, http://www.bostonislands.org/eventsresults.asp

-- Stargazing at Notchview, Aug 1, Windsor, MA. http://www.thetrustees.org/pages/37267stargazingat_notchview.cfm

-- Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre at the Salem Cross Inn, to Sep 19, West Brookfield, MA, http://www.salemcrossinn.com

-- Yankee Homecoming Festival, to Aug 3. Newburyport, MA. http://www.yankeehomecoming.com

-- Woods Hole Film Festival, to Aug 2. Woods Hole, MA, http://www.woodsholefilmfestival.org

-- Waterfire, to Nov 11, Providence Place, Providence, RI. 401 751-1221. http://www.waterfire.com

-- Longfellow Family Sundays Art in the Park, Sundays to Aug 31, 1-4pm, Cambridge. http://www.nps.gov/long

-- Folk dancing in Copley Square, to Aug 26, 7:30pm-10pm on Tuesdays, http://www.facone.org/programs/program/bythefountain.htm

-- Murder Mystery & Evening With the Astors @ Beechwood Mansion, to Oct 30, http://www.astorsbeechwood.com

-- Circus Smirkus, to Aug 3, http://www.smirkus.org/htm/tour/tourschedule.html

Feel like traveling? Here are some excuses to spend a weekend away in New England:

-- Maine Lobster Festival, Jul 30-Aug 3. Rockland, ME. Nearly 4 hours from Boston. We hear Maine has many babes. Oh wait, many TREES. Sorry. http://www.mainelobsterfestival.com

-- Northeast Kingdom Music Festival, Aug 1-Aug 2. Chilly Ranch, Albany, VT. Come camp for a whole weekend for this world music festival. No actual kings will be present. http://www.nekmf.com

-- ConnectiCon, Aug 1-Aug 3. Connecticut Convention Center on Columbus Blvd Hartford, CT. It's a broad all-inclusive fandom convention, with anime, gaming, web-comics, science-fiction, fantasy and more. http://www.connecticon.org

-- Champlain Valley Folk Festival, Aug 1-Aug 3. Kingsland Bay State Park Ferrisburgh, Vermont. 877-850-0206. http://www.cvfest.org

-- East Sandwich Blueberry Festival, Aug 2, Green Briar Nature Center & Jam Kitchen, 6 Discovery Hill Road East, East Sandwich, MA. http://www.thorntonburgess.org/Special%20Events.htm

-- Nantucket Comedy Festival, Jul 28-Aug 2, Nantucket Island, MA. 508-228-1515. http://nantucketcomedyfestival.org/events.html

The August Moon Festival in Chinatown, Boston is slippery. While promoted for August 3rd, I have reason to believe it is actually August 17. http://www.chinatownmainstreet.org

Tip of the week. Here's how to see bats. Near any pond at night, throw some pebbles or grit way into the air. You may trick some bats into appearing, who mistake the pebbles for flying insects.

Tip 2: Always bring a blanket or chairs for outdoor theatre, movies, or concerts.

That ought to keep you for a week.

-Johnny

p.s. Please tell your friends about this blog. Get it as a weekly email at http://tiny.cc/uYULq and see my huge list of 2000 New England Activities updated fresh at http://www.crossintotheabyss.org/johnnys-list.xls

Hi!

I can't resist listing this, a new free outdoor movie series, in Assembly Square.

The first are TUESDAY 7/22 Shrek The Third, then Sunday 7/27 Happy Feet, at dusk, approximately 8:30pm. Bring your beach or lounge chairs to the lot adjacent to Assembly Square (behind Assembly Square Marketplace parking lot. http://www.assemblysquare.com

Also, the Boston Globe is coming Thursday to check out my garden project. See it yourself at http://crossintotheabyss.org

-Johnny

Hi all,

I am trying a new format that will be easier to glance over.

Pirates Night Out, Jul 26, Attleboro, MA. The weird event of the week! I met the performers and they seem great. Elks Pavilion, 152 South Main St. 508-222-2509 or 508-369-9140. 5-10pm. Lots of food, pirate attire welcomed. Music. They teach swordfighting, too. $20. http://www.swordssongsandmoor.com/events.htm

Old School Prom @ Belcourt Castle, Jul 26, Newport RI. This one's weird all right. Did you miss your school prom? Or want to try it again? This celebration is for adults who want to turn back the clock, and it takes place in one of the mansions in Newport, RI. http://www.belcourtcastle.com

GPS Adventure, Jul 26, Royalston, MA. It's like a scavenger hunt that takes you off the trails and following your Global Positioning System. Hone your orienteering skills. http://www.thetrustees.org/pages/37280gpsadventure.cfm

Bang on a Can Marathon. Jul 26. North Adams, MA. I wrote about the Bang on a Can event last week, but this is their closing day! A marathon of can banging, it really is that simply. http://www.massmoca.org/searchresults.php?st=6

Gallery Scavenger Hunt @ Mass MoCA. Jul 26. North Adams, MA. Also drawing you out to the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (Mass MoCA) is this hunt. The museum is really worth seeing! http://www.massmoca.org/searchresults.php?st=6

Dancing on the Charles, Jul 26, Boston, MA. Another opportunity for outdoor summer dancing, near the water. http://blog.soulclap.us/dotc

George's Island Kite Day, Jun 22-Aug 31, Boston, MA. 617-223-8666. Kite experts give lessons on kite-flying, free material to build kites. http://www.bostonislands.org/eventsresults.asp

Boston Film Race, Jul 25-26, Cambridge, MA. How would you like to write, shoot, and edit a film all in one day? Or just attend the final screening at the Brattle. Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St. 617-876-6837. http://filmracing.com/Cities/boston.htm

Kenda BikeFest, Jul 25-27, Hancock, MA. It's more than just lots of dirt biking. They'll have a scavenger hunt, movies, and presentations. Apple Tree Hill Organic Farm, Route 43. 518-641-9110. http://www.bicyclefest.com

St. Joseph Feast Celebration, Jul 25-27, Boston, MA. Yet another religious festival in the North End. I've heard this is a big one. Battery St & Hanover St. 617-720-1368. http://www.northendboston.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=28

Lowell Folk Festival, Jul 25-27, Lowell, MA. 978-970-5000. They claim it's the largest free folk festival in the US, but I think to get there, they basically include everyone in a 10 square block area of downtown. I've been and it's worth attending if you're in the area. They'll have a parade and several stages. http://www.lowellfolkfestival.org

The Open at Maple Hill, Jul 25-27, Leicester, MA. If you're curious about Disc Golf, this is the event for you. Basically it takes place on a field like a golf course, and you throw frisbees closer and closer and into the hole. I've always wanted to see it! http://www.nefa.com

Stargazing at Notchview, Jul 25 and Aug 1, Windsor, MA. It's an astronomy night where hobbyists show you the stars. http://www.thetrustees.org/pages/37267stargazingatnotchview.cfm and http://www.thetrustees.org/pages/37266stargazingatnotchview.cfm

Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre at the Salem Cross Inn, Jul 25-Sep 19, West Brookfield, MA. Having been assured that my recent awful experience was unique to the truly bad "Murder Mystery Cafe Dinner Theater", here is an entirely different group I might check out. 260 West Main Street. 508-867-2345. http://www.salemcrossinn.com

Gardner Museum's free night, Jul 24, Boston, MA. Another late night for the Gardner, which is especially worth visiting because they'll have workshops and music and presentations. 280 The Fenway. (617)566-1401. http://www.gardnermuseum.org

Salem CultureFest, Jul 26-27, Salem, MA. This appears to be a small event with just one stage, with the usual art vendors and face painting. It's worth taking a trip to Salem, anyhow, make sure to visit the Peabody Essex Museum. http://www.A3Dinc.org and http://www.pem.org

Yankee Homecoming Festival, Jul 27-Aug 3. Newburyport, MA. Printmaking, food & music & art, festival, historical tours, Irish & Greek performances, and fireworks Aug 5th, and a parade Aug 6th. http://www.yankeehomecoming.com

New England Shakespeare - The Comedie of Errors, Jul 27-Aug 16. Sturbridge, MA. Sturbridge Town Common. 2pm, and Revere on the lawn of the American Legion Building, Thu 8/9, Fri 8/10 @ 6pm. And Robbins Farm Park, Arlington, 8/12 @ 5pm. http://www.newenglandshakespeare.org

Much Ado About Nothing, Jul 27-Aug 16, Lowell, MA. http://www.newenglandshakespeare.org/summerperformanceschedule.htm

Woods Hole Film Festival, Jul 26-Aug 2. Woods Hole, MA. It's rarely appreciated that we have perhaps the finest marine research center in the world here in Massachusetts. They are choosing to spend part of their summer indoors, but it includes panels and workshops so it's ok by me! http://www.woodsholefilmfestival.org

The Falcon Ridge Folk Festival is July 24-27 in Eastern New York. http://www.falconridgefolk.com

Outdoor movies continue:

-- Boston, MA. Movies by Moonlight at the Boston Harbor Hotel. July 25. "Harold and Maude (1971)". At dusk. 617-439-7000. http://www.bhh.com/specialeventcal.htm

-- Boston, MA. WBZ Free Friday Flicks @ Hatch Shell. Jun 25. They haven't updated their phone machine, call 'em. At sundown. 617-787-7200. Call hotline for cancellation info. http://www.mass.gov/dcr/hatchevents.htm

-- Cambridge, MA. Family Night in the Park. July 23. "Tyler Perry's Meet the Browns", with a kids performer beforehand. Rindge Field (Rain site: Gately Youth Center). 617-349-6200. All events begin at 7pm. http://www.cambridgema.gov/CityOfCambridgeContent/documents/FamilyNights.pdf

-- Dorchester, MA. Neponset River Greenway Festival & Movie Series. "Shrek III". July 22 at Martini Shell, Hyde Park, and July 24 at Pope John Paul II Park, Dorchester. 617-542-7696. All movies begin at sunset, around 7:30-8pm. Every Thursday. http://www.bostonnatural.org

-- Revere, MA. Movie Nights on Revere Beach... Err, this might be over for the summer?

-- Somerville, MA. City of Somerville Annual Movie Series. Jul 24. "Bee Movie". Seven Hills Park, Davis Square, Somerville, MA. 617-666-3311. http://www.somervillema.gov/coscontent/documents/SomerMovie%20Poster%2020081.pdf

-- Weymouth, MA. Weymouth Summer Outdoor Movies. Jul 24. 6:30pm. "Toe Jam". http://www.weymouth.ma.us/news/news.asp?id=10117

-- Falmouth, MA. Wednesday Movies Under the Stars. July 23, "Sandlot". Peg Noonan Park, Main Street, Falmouth, MA. 508-487-3424. At dusk. http://www.falmouthchamber.com/more/calendar/event/909

-- Onset, MA. Onset Bay Movie Co. Jul 24, "Surfs Up". The Bandshell, behind 197 Onset Avenue, Onset, MA. 508-295-9026. http://www.myspace.com/obmco

-- Acton, MA. Outdoor Movie Night at NARA Park, Acton. July 24. A puppet show. No, really! http://acton-ma.gov/uploadedFiles/Departments/Recreation/ConcertSeries/Marionette%20Show.pdf

Outdoor theatre:

-- Shakespeare on the Common - As You Like It. Jul 16-Aug 3. Boston Metro. Boston Common. Boston, MA. 617-532-1252. Free. At the Parade Grounds on Boston Common, near Beacon & Charles. Rent a chair for $5. http://www.freeshakespeare.org

-- "The Real Inspector Hound", by Tom Stoppard. July 9-26. Chelsea, MA. I actually attended this to learn that SOME NIGHTS ARE IN SPANISH! Fortunately I was with someone who spoke Spanish and whispered translations to me. Highly recommended. Mary O'Malley Park, Commandant's Way, on the Chelsea Waterfront (Admiral's Hill). 7:30pm. 617-887-2336. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. http://apollinairetheatre.com/productions/productions.html

-- Shakespeare Under the Stars, Hadley, MA, to July 27. http://www.hampshireshakespeare.org

-- The Seagull, by Anton Chekhov, to Sep 7, and Hay Fever, by Noel Coward, July 24 - Sep 14. Boston MA. http://www.publicktheatre.com

Yet more outdoor music series:

-- Special Live Concerts, Outdoors at the Boston Harbor Hotel, Jun 20-Aug 29. http://www.bhh.com

-- Springfield CityBlock Concert Series, Jun 21-Sep 20, Springfield, MA, http://www.springfieldcityhall.com/COS/summer-concert.0.html

-- Milford, MA. Family Night at the Bandstand 2008. Milford Town Park, corner of Congress and Walnut Streets, Milford. Tuesdays, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. 508-478-5924. Rain dates the following Thursday.

-- Newton, MA. Sunday Evening Heritage Festivals. To Jul 30, http://www.newtonpride.org

-- Norwood, MA. Sunday Evening Concerts on the Common. Corner of Washington and Nahatan Streets, Norwood, MA. Sundays, 7-9 p.m. Rain or shine. http://www.norwoodma.gov

-- Sharon, MA. Lakeside Concert Series. Memorial Park Beach Bandstand, Sharon. Wednesday nights, 7 p.m., throughout the summer.

Continuing events:

-- The Barnstable County Fair, to Jul 26, http://www.barnstablecountyfair.org

-- "Walking with Dinosaurs: The Live Experience", to Jul 20, Boston, MA. http://www.tdbanknorthgarden.com

-- Waterfire, to Nov 11, Providence Place, Providence, RI. 401 751-1221. http://www.waterfire.com

-- Longfellow Family Sundays Art in the Park, Sundays to Aug 31, 1-4pm, Cambridge. http://www.nps.gov/long

-- Folk dancing in Copley Square, to Aug 26, 7:30pm-10pm on Tuesdays, http://www.facone.org/programs/program/bythefountain.htm

-- Murder Mystery & Evening With the Astors @ Beechwood Mansion, to Oct 30, http://www.astorsbeechwood.com

-- Circus Smirkus, to Aug 3, http://www.smirkus.org/htm/tour/tourschedule.html

Have fun this week!

-Johnny

p.s. Like this blog? Do me a favor and tell your friends. Get it as a weekly email at http://tiny.cc/uYULq and if you're looking for a heads up on next week and beyond, see http://www.crossintotheabyss.org/johnnys-list.xls

Hey-o,

Woops! I left out a bunch of stuff this week. What a big week in events. Get out there and do some fun stuff! No excuses!

The event of this half of my blog this week! Somerville ArtBeat is Jul 18-19, Davis Square, Somerville, MA. There are a lot of dance and music performances and the whole event is geared towards green events. 617 625 6600. http://www.somervilleartscouncil.org/programs/artbeat

Hungry? The World's Largest Sausage Eating Contest is Jul 18-20, at 35 Benningston Street, East Boston, MA. 617-561-3201. 6pm. Free. World-class competitive eaters duke it out. Yes the history of Sausage passes through Italy before Germany. http://www.italiaunita.org

It's all part of the Annual Italian Festival in East Boston, Jul 18-20, Central Square, East Boston Boston, MA. That's a different Central Square than the one in Cambridge! It's nice to have an Italian festival that's not directly a Catholic festival. (617) 561-3201. http://www.italiaunita.org/festivals/agenda.html

Weirder, however, is the Festival Betances (Latino Festival), Jul 18-20, Villa Victoria, South End, Boston, MA. They feature a greased pole climbing contest Sunday. Free. http://www.iba-etc.org/claboston/festival.html

Radio 92.9 CitySteps Concert Series, Jul 17-Aug 21, City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA. Thriving Irony 7/17, Tracy Bonham 7/31, The English Beat 8/21. Opens at 5pm and shows at 6pm, with local artists opening and vendor booths. http://www.bostonradio929.com/citysteps.aspx

Yes another Moonlight Paddle. Jul 18. Sheffield, MA. http://www.thetrustees.org/pages/37089moonlightpaddle.cfm

Two balloon festivals this week! Both far away, unfortunately:

-- The Green River Festival, Jul 18-19, at Greenfield Community College, Greenfield, MA, off Rt 91 exit 26. 413/773-9393. http://www.greenriverfestival.com

-- South County Hot Air Balloon Festival, Jul 18-20, URI Athletic Fields off Rt 138 Kingston, RI. Rt 95S to ex 9. Rt 4S, 10.4mi joins Rt 1, then Rt 138W, 401-783-1770. http://www.wakefieldrotary.com

The Barnstable County Fair is yet another agricultural faire, and they claim to be the biggest annual event on Cape Cod. Jul 18-26. Rt 151, East Falmouth, MA. 508-563-3200. Rt 28S to Rt 151E, 4.7 mi. http://www.barnstablecountyfair.org

Have you ever wanted to try fishing? Mainly it involves sitting there with a pole, I believe. My father showed me once how to be a man and I was so terrified of the tiny fish we caught that we released it and I went back to my computer programming and comic books. Whitman's Pond Family Fish Festival. Jul 19. Weymouth, MA. 10am-2:30pm. Fishing rods available for you to try your luck with angling. http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/education/aep/aep_calendar.htm

Finally, Scituate, Massachusetts also has an Outdoor Movie Night. They are Jul 18. At the Scituate High School Svensen Hockey Field, 600 Chief Justice Cushing Highway, Scituate, MA. 781-545-8738. Friday is HairSpray, at 8:15pm. August 1, Cars at 8pm. Aug 15, High School Musical 2 at 7:45pm. http://www.town.scituate.ma.us/rec/summer08.pdf

See you next week!

-Johnny

Hey everyone,

Here's what's happening. And I fixed the link to my big spreadsheet of activities, it is http://www.crossintotheabyss.org/johnnys-list.xls

TODAY! Pastimes Entertainment is an interactive theatre group that specializes in festivals like the Salem Pirate Faire and the Castle of the Damned around Halloween. They're aces. They are doing a pirates thing called "Buccaneer Bash" from 6-8pm at Revere Beach, and then they are showing Pirates of the Caribbean 3, the movie.

ALSO TODAY! "Voices of the Andes" explores the ancient question, "Where the hell are the Andes?" Apparently the answer is Wood Park, Park Street, Hudson, MA at 6:30pm today. They'll have local artists exhibiting (that means selling!) and music, too. http://www.upwitharts.org/news.php

The event of the week has to be the Free Shakespeare on the Boston Common! You really cannot miss this! It is July 16-17 (rehearsals) and July 18-August 3, on Boston Common. And then in Springfield MA, August 8-10. It's free and you really need to show up at least 90 minutes early. Bring a blanket or rent a chair. Daily 8pm except Sundays 7pm. Highly recommended!

Also the event of the week!! The New England Sand Sculpting Festival continues! Revere Beach, in Revere, MA. 617-650-2213. Vendors and 'family fun' July 16-20, with fireworks at 8pm on July 19. Amateur sculpture day July 20, 9am-2pm. http://www.reverebeachpartnership.com/nessf07/index.htm

Also also the event of the week!!! I love this, I've been and you really need to check it out. Tomorrow, July 17, the Forest Hills Lantern Festival is when a thousand people gather at Forest Hills Cemetery, Boston, MA, listen to asian music and create paper lanterns which then get floated. Bring a picnic blanket. Lovely. 6-9pm. 617-524-0128. http://www.foresthillstrust.org

I've created an interactive community art project that is meant to inspire you to change your life. It is highly weird, and it's open 24 hours at 123 Elm Street, Somerville MA. It would mean a lot to me if you would spread the word. See pics at http://crossintotheabyss.org

I always put the best stuff at the top of my blog. I recommend the Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival, Jul 19, way out west at Look Park, 300 North Main St, Northampton, MA. (413) 862-8095. 9am-5pm. Rain or shine. I haven't been to this one but its sister festival is fantastic. http://www.glasgowlands.org

Every year there's a festival on Boston Common called the Life is Good Festival. This year they're having some games and calling it the "World's Greatest Backyard Athlete Competition." What fun! http://www.lifeisgood.com/festivals/

I love pancakes! The Verrill Farm Blueberry Pancake & Pie Eating Contest is July 19, at 11 Wheeler Road, Concord, MA. 978-369-4494. With hayrides, live music, pony rides (probably for kids only, darn it!). http://www.verrillfarm.com

If you're lucky enough to be on Martha's Vinyard, there's an evening guided canoe trip called Paddle Into the Night. July 16-18. http://www.thetrustees.org/pages/37688paddleintothenight.cfm

While you're there, make sure to attend the Oak Bluffs Monster Shark Tournament! These are the people who can't stop watching "Jaws", the movie, over and over. Jul 17-19. They basically compete to catch the biggest shark possible. Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vinyard, MA. Great photos at http://www.bbgfc.com

Perhaps you'd prefer something more sublime. The Newport Black Ships Festival is Jul 17-20 in Newport, RI. This is not your average semi-boring "tall ships" festival. It's a Japanese festival, including drumming, origami, tea ceremonies, and yes, ships. It looks really interesting. http://www.newportevents.com/Blackships/main.shtml

I was just at Old Sturbridge Village, the re-enactment museum. They have live actors representing the 1830s and it's really worth the visit, especially as they have miniature 'festivals' all summer long. This week's, July 19, is the Fire and Ice festival, where they show old-timey fire engines and old-timey ice cream making. http://www.osv.org/activitiesevents/eventcalendarmore.html?ID=498&DateID=1102

Also an excuse to go some place you need to get to anyway, the original rules for baseball, called "Vintage Baseball", July 19-20 at Fort Warren, Georges Island, Boston, MA. See the Boston Harbor Islands. http://www.bostonislands.org/eventsresults.asp

Also old-timey, they're having a re-enactment weekend called His Majestys 40th Regt of Foot, July 19-20 at a national park at Hartwell Tavern in Lexington. Obviously from the name, they're the British, from the 1776 period. http://www.nps.gov/ner/customcf/apps/eventcalendar/events/mimaevent21952156.html

Frank Caliendo is a comedian and impressionist you can see on YouTube. I think he's great. He's performing July 17 at the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, Hampton Beach, NH, and 7/18 at the South Shore Music Circus in Cohasset, MA. Then July 19 at the Cape Cod Melody Tent. http://justgoogleitidontknowwhateverprobablyticketmaster.com

Do remember dodgeball from high school gym? They used to call it "murder ball" until the adults stopped it. Well, apparently some kids never grow up and there is a series of adult dodgeball tournaments called Big Kids Dodgeball Tournament. Although their website focuses on joining the team, I imagine they permit onlookers. http://www.bigkidsdodgeball.com/

You may remember I posted a while back about classes in stunt work for films. Well, now the Baystate Fencers are doing Sword Fighting for Film, Jul 21, at 561 Windsor Street, Suite A 401, Somerville, MA 02143. 617-591-0101. Beginners level. 7:30-10pm. $30. I attended the previous workshop and it was a lot of fun. No website, call or email mtmartino@yahoo.com

If you like sex way too much, check out the Fetish Fair Fleamarket, July 19, Boston. http://nelaonline.org

If you like books way too much, Readercon is Jul 17-20 at the Burlington Marriott, Burlington, MA. Science fiction convention focusing on novels. Expensive but attracts top writers. http://www.readercon.org

If you like cars way too much... you see how easy it is to be a lazy journalist:

-- the Heritage Annual Auto Show is Jul 19 on Cape Cod at Sandwich, MA as part of Heritage Gardens, which are worth visiting just by themselves. http://www.heritagemuseumsandgardens.org

-- the Annual Antique Auto Show, Jul 20, at the Codman Estate, Lincoln, MA. http://www.spnea.org/things/calendar/Events.asp?State=MA

-- and of course the Museum of Transportation in Brookline continues to have many festivals throughout the summer, http://www.mot.org

Quincy's Annual Summer Festival is July 17-19. 617-471-3232. Thursday and Friday from 10 am to 8 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Hancock Street at School St, Quincy, MA. The listing promises "food, music, entertainment, and bargains..." so basically it is a merchant event. http://www.discoverquincy.com/calendarYear.htm

Also mercantile, the Annual Pittsfield Art Show, 10am-4pm, July 19 and 20. Pittsfield, MA. http://www.pittsfieldartshow.org/

Sometimes the smallest events can have the most peace. The Minot Rose Garden stroll is Jul 20. Basically it is a garden, they'll have music, just come and enjoy the outdoors and pretend that Brookline is way in the suburbs not a big city in its own right. St. Paul St at Browne St, Brookline, MA. 617 232-1965. 1pm-2:30pm. http://minotroses.org

Heads up, the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival is July 24-27 in Eastern New York. http://www.falconridgefolk.com

Outdoor movies continue:

-- Boston, MA. Movies by Moonlight at the Boston Harbor Hotel. July 18. "Some Like It Hot (1959)". At dusk. 617-439-7000. http://www.bhh.com/specialeventcal.htm

-- Cambridge, MA. Family Night in the Park. July 16: Spiderwick Chronicle, at Donnelly Field. (Rain site: Frisoli Youth Center). And they'll have a circus beforehand. 617-349-6200. All events begin at 7pm. http://www.cambridgema.gov/CityOfCambridgeContent/documents/FamilyNights.pdf

-- Dorchester, MA. Neponset River Greenway Festival & Movie Series. "Bee Movie". July 15 at Martini Shell, Hyde Park, and July 17 at Pope John Paul II Park, Dorchester. 617-542-7696. All movies begin at sunset, around 7:30-8pm. Every Thursday. http://www.bostonnatural.org

-- Revere, MA. Movie Nights on Revere Beach. Jul 16. 6-10pm. Buccaneer Bashand "Pirates of the Caribbean 3". http://www.myrecdept.com/depttemplate/programscheduledetails.asp?RecProgramID=6168#12427

-- Somerville, MA. City of Somerville Annual Movie Series. Jul 17. "Mean Girls". Seven Hills Park, Davis Square, Somerville, MA. 617-666-3311. http://www.somervillema.gov/coscontent/documents/SomerMovie%20Poster%2020081.pdf

-- Weymouth, MA. Weymouth Summer Outdoor Movies. Jul 17. 6:30pm. "T-Bone". http://www.weymouth.ma.us/news/news.asp?id=10117

-- Winchester, MA. "Winchester Movies on the Common". Winchester Town Common, Winchester, MA. Every other Thursday, July 17-August 14, at 7:30pm, with an opening cartoon. Showing the Indiana Jones Trilogy. http://www.winyc.com/

-- Falmouth, MA. Wednesday Movies Under the Stars. July 16, "The Sound of Music". Peg Noonan Park, Main Street, Falmouth, MA. 508-487-3424. At dusk. http://www.falmouthchamber.com/more/calendar/event/909

-- Onset, MA. Onset Bay Movie Co. Jul 17, "Harry Potter 5: Order of the Phoenix". The Bandshell, behind 197 Onset Avenue, Onset, MA. 508-295-9026. http://www.myspace.com/obmco

Outdoor theatre:

-- "The Real Inspector Hound", by Tom Stoppard. Anyway, the Apollinaire Theatre Company is putting on a performance, July 9-26, of this and also Hidden in This Picture, by Aaron Sorkin. Mary O'Malley Park, Commandant's Way, on the Chelsea Waterfront (Admiral's Hill). 7:30pm. 617-887-2336. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Play is by the fish sculpture by the dock. http://apollinairetheatre.com/productions/productions.html

-- Shakespeare on the Common - As You Like It. Jul 16-Aug 3. Boston Metro. Boston Common. Boston, MA. 617-532-1252. Free. At the Parade Grounds on Boston Common, near Beacon & Charles. Rent a chair for $5. 2008: July 16 & 17 are rehearsals open to the public. http://www.freeshakespeare.org

-- Shakespeare Under the Stars, Hadley, MA, to July 27. http://www.hampshireshakespeare.org

-- The Seagull, by Anton Chekhov, to Sep 7, and Hay Fever, by Noel Coward, July 24 - Sep 14. Boston MA. http://www.publicktheatre.com

Here are some more outdoor music series. I can't list them all every week so it's up to you to make some notes if you live nearby:

-- Needham, MA. Art in the Parks, Needham, MA: Thursdays July 17-Aug 14, http://www.needhamma.gov/index.asp?nid=664

-- Norwood, MA. Norwood Summer Concert on the Common: July 16, 7-9pm, every Wednesday. http://www.norwoodma.gov/index.php?option=comevents&task=viewdetail&agid=259&year=2008&month=07&day=16&Itemid=67

-- Southbridge, MA. Southbridge Summer Concert Series for 2008. Free summer concerts at the Rotary (Route 131) in Southbridge on Sunday evenings. http://www.southbridgeinfo.com

-- Upton, MA. Sweet Summer Nights Music Series at Sweetwilliam Farm, Friday nights, http://www.sweetwilliamfarm.biz

-- Bedford, MA. Concerts on the Common. Town Common, 75 Great Rd., Bedford. Thursdays, 7 p.m. Rain location: John Glenn Middle School Auditorium, 99 McMahon St.781-275-6310. http://www.bedfordrecreation.org

-- Boston, MA. Harborwalk Sounds. Near the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston. Thursdays thru Sept. 11, 6 - 8:30 p.m. http://www.icaboston.org

Continuing events:

-- Bang on a Can Summer Music Festival" at Mass MOCA, to Jul 26. http://www.massmoca.org/search_results.php?st=6

-- "Walking with Dinosaurs: The Live Experience", to Jul 20, Boston, MA. http://www.tdbanknorthgarden.com

-- "Arts on the Arcade", Boston City Hall Plaza, to Aug 27, Mondays and Wednesdays from 11am - 3pm. 617-635-3911. http://www.cityofboston.gov/arts/visual/artmart.asp

-- Longfellow Family Sundays Art in the Park, Sundays to Aug 31, 1-4pm, Cambridge. http://www.nps.gov/long

Hint of the week: Did you know that that blinking red hand that seems to welcome me across the street actually means stop? Those white lines on the street at every intersection still confuse me, I believe they may be native american in origin, meaning something tribal.

-Johnny

p.s. Like this blog? Do me a favor and tell your friends. Get it as a weekly email at http://tiny.cc/uYULq and if you're looking for a heads up on next week and beyond, see http://www.crossintotheabyss.org/johnnys-list.xls

Hi all,

This is your week in weird.

This one's going first because two events that were already weird are teaming up. Midnight Seduction is a flirting party for people curious about kink. Their next event is July 12, and they're having guests from Shriiimp attend. They are artists who bring body paint and draw graffiti art on volunteers. http://bostonseduction.org and http://shriiimp.com

Speaking of Shriimp, this is also not an official Shriimp event but they'll have body painting at the Middle East Downstairs, July 10, Cambridge MA. This is part of a completely incomprehensible event called "The 2008 Leedz Edutainment B-Day Bash". Go to http://www.mideastclub.com and click "downstairs".

I highly recommend the New England Sand Sculpting Festival. Jul 14-20. It's at Revere Beach, not where I'd normally go beaching, but I've been to this one and it was great! Revere, MA. 617-650-2213. They have real professionals, but also kids and regular folks can make sculptures on July 20. Awards & entertainment is July 19 with fireworks! http://www.reverebeach.com

I'd really like to see this one. The Annual Wacky Cardboard Race, Jul 12, is when you build a boat and see how long it floats for! Back Beach. Rockport, MA. 978-546-6788 or 978-546-2048. Kids event. Pre-register for $100 and get a ship-building kit. Prizes include "first to sink"! http://www.burningtaper.org/forums/showthread.php?p=255

I love balloons! Who doesn't? Unfortunately, there aren't any balloon festivals close to Boston. The Stoweflake Mountain Resort Balloon Festival, Jul 11-13. Vermont. http://www.stoweflake.com

Here's another, which is also a hike. The Hillsboro Balloon Festival is Jul 10-13 in nearby Hillsboro, NH, which is just 1.7 hrs from Boston. The event draws 30,000 people. And they have fireworks Saturday night. They will have a carnival, a tractor pull, a parade, and drag races in the mud. Yee ha! http://www.balloonfestival.org

Also appealing to the wrestling fan community, if you've been itching to visit New Bedford, with its Whaling Museum, but just haven't wanted to bother, here's a special event that might inspire you to go. The Whaling City Festival is Jul 11-13, at 13 Edward Street, New Bedford, MA. They'll have an alligator show, a bunch of kids stuff, and wrestling. http://www.whalingcityfestival.com

Putting the ass back in class is the "Bang on a Can Summer Music Festival" at Mass MOCA, one of the regions finest museums. It works like this: (1) You show up; (2) You bang on cans. It's way out in Western Massachusetts but it's well worth the trip, especially if you do something else in the region, too. Jul 10-26. http://www.massmoca.org/searchresults.php?st=6

OK. Back to some events with some intellect. Are you really into Henry David Thoreau, the author who made communing with nature divine, while living about 2 miles from the bustling center of Concord, MA? Afficionados are having their Thoreau Society Annual Gathering. Jul 10-13. Metro West. Concord, MA. Looks very serious. Prepare to think. Possibly have your life changed. http://www.thoreausociety.org/activitiesag.htm

Additionally, the birthplace of Thoreau has an anniversary event. It's the Thoreau Farm Open House, Jul 13. Concord, MA. Free, but RSVP. http://www.thoreaufarm.org/lib/category/general

In deference to us Americans, the French have moved their Independence Day a week later to July 14th. Go check it out at the Bastille Day Party & Dance in Boston. Jul 14. 5:30pm-2am between Berkeley & Clarendon. Dance, drink, act bohemian. http://www.frenchlib.org/events/event.cfm?t=%20Bastille%20Day%202008%20at%20the%20Beehive%2E&id=705&eventcategory=34

Ever eager to attract tourists and make sales, the merchants in Harvard Square are also having Bastille Day Festivities. They also claim it's the largest regional celebration. Jul 13. 3pm-10pm, featuring a "French waiters race". Holyoke St, Cambridge. Free.

I called up the tourism board and spoke with someone very excited about French Heritage Days in Vermont. Jul 11-12. I don't know many French culture events in New England so it may be worth the trip! Old timey crafts, dancing, and ice cream making. Musical "spoons", fencing, and also a waiters race. http://www.midvermont.com/events/frenchheritageday

There's also an Irish day coming up. I've been to the Irish Connections festival and it was OK but not spectacular. I suspect this one might be better. It's the Blackstone Valley Celtic Festival. Jul 12. Indian Ranch in Webster, MA, which is south of Worcester. http://celticfestival.blackstonevalley.org

OK this event is pretty weird. You know in Cambridge, MA near Harvard there's the Charles River and a number of bridges span it. Perhaps the most picturesque is the Weeks Footbridge, right next to JFK Street. Well the Boston Tango Society is teaching "Tango at the Weeks Bridge" on July 11, and a number of other dates. Although the event is not listed on their calendar I'm assured it is real. http://www.bostontango.org/

Do you long for medieval times, when things were simpler and people fought with wooden swords? Go "Aaarrrrgh!!" at the Great Northeastern War, which is a medievial re-enactment put on by the Society for Creative Anachronism and their largest regional event of the year. Jul 11-13. Hebron, ME, a 2.8 hr drive from Boston. It draws over 1000 people. http://www.gnewar.org/

More my style is a re-enactment of the Revolutionary War. I went to see Glover's Regiment last year. It's a military encampment, and it's quite small but worth a visit. Jul 11-13. Fort Sewall. Marblehead, MA. 781-631-5967. They have tents, cooking, craft areas, costumed militia and camp followers. http://www.gloversregiment.org

Moving forward in time, there wil be a Civil War Re-Enactment on Georges Island, but not a big one. I think it's just one actor. But it's cool to visit the Boston Harbor Islands anyway. Jul 13, Jul 27, Aug 10, and Aug 24. http://www.bostonislands.org/eventsresults.asp

Moving both backwards and forwards, this is the only re-enactment event I know of that covers the whole range from Ancient Rome to the 20th Century. The Living History Association's "Time Line" is July 12-13. Howe Field, Wilmington, VT.

I keep seeing this event, which happens every Saturday throughout the summer, from 10am to 12:30pm. It's a canoe trip that is also a historical tour. It's called "Paddling Back in Time" and it happens at The Old Manse, a historical building. Jul 12. It's the natural landscape that old-timey authors Emerson, Thoreau, and Hawthorne wrote about. http://www.thetrustees.org/pages/37470paddlingbackintime.cfm

Perhaps instead of time travel you'd prefer to "Paddle into the Night". Jul 16-18. Martha's Vineyard, MA. http://www.thetrustees.org/pages/37688paddleintothenight.cfm

The Gardner Museum is having some free nights, which they call "Neighborhood Nights", July 10, 24, and August 7. It's well worth the visit, and they'll have live music under the stars and the opportunity to make your own "rat hat". 280 The Fenway. Boston, MA. (617)566-1401. 5-8pm. http://www.gardnermuseum.org

Here is yet another circus of unknown competency. Circus Smirkus is Jul 11-12 in Wilbraham, MA, July 17-20 in Wellesley, MA, and there are also dates for much of New England, including Manchester, NH and Revere, MA. http://www.smirkus.org/htm/tour/tourschedule.html

I'm not into model airplanes but I do like to find enthusiasts, whatever their hobby, and enjoy their passion for life. A few years ago I visited the CRRC Hand-Launch Classic and it was a . Jul 12. Jul 13. Metro West. Davis Field. Sudbury, MA. 518 798 1321. Off Rt 117. Call Mark Drela at 617 253 0067, or drela@mit.edu. Lunch included in admission. 9:15am to 4pm? One of two big local model airplane events. Register ahead for discount. Directions, see http://www.charlesriverrc.org/fieldsdavis.htm. http://www.charlesriverrc.org

The Newport Kite Festival is Jul 12-13. I've been to this one and it's surprising how many kind of strange kite shapes there are. Like, lobsters. Brenton Point State Park, Ocean Drive. Newport, RI. 401-846-3262. They'll have the usual kite battles and competitions as well. http://www.seasidekites.com/local-events/info10.html

Although it seems like a murder mystery dinner theatre, Murder Under Bones is actually a murder mystery author talk and book signing. But it's at Red Bones, the BBQ restaurant in Somerville! Jul 15 - Aug 19. http://www.redbones.com/newsevents.html

You've heard me talk about "Revels" before, basically they are a chorus that performs in unusual places and is sometimes open to participatory sing. The Revels Harbor Cruise and Sing is July 16. Rowes Wharf. Boston, MA. Reservations are required. Board a boat and sing sea chanteys!. http://www.revels.org

I've seen Jurassic Park, and I'm not sure what to think of "Walking with Dinosaurs: The Live Experience" which is Jul 16-20 at the TD Banknorth Garden in Boston, MA. Apparently it's a sort of "Dinosaurs on Ice" show, without the ice. 617-624-1000. http://www.tdbanknorthgarden.com

Davis Farmland is my favorite New England farm, and even though their corn field maze is closed until August, their petting zoo is open. This weekend they have a special evening event, called Sizzlin' Summer Fun Night. Jul 12. I recently learned (after about 12 visits) that one is supposed to bring a child along to visit the petting zoo. Whose rule is that?? http://www.davisfarmland.com

Outdoor movies continue:

-- Boston, MA. Movies by Moonlight at the Boston Harbor Hotel. July 11. "Witness for the Prosecution (1957)". At dusk. 617-439-7000. http://www.bhh.com/specialeventcal.htm

-- Cambridge, MA. Family Night in the Park. July 16: Spiderwick Chronicle, at Donnelly Field. (Rain site: Frisoli Youth Center). And they'll have a circus beforehand. 617-349-6200. All events begin at 7pm. http://www.cambridgema.gov/CityOfCambridgeContent/documents/FamilyNights.pdf

-- Dorchester, MA. Neponset River Greenway Festival & Movie Series. "Mouse Hunt". July 8 at Martini Shell, Hyde Park, and July 10 at Pope John Paul II Park, Dorchester. P617-542-7696. All movies begin at sunset, around 7:30-8pm. Every Thursday. http://www.bostonnatural.org

-- Revere, MA. Movie Nights on Revere Beach. Jul 10. 6-10pm. The movie is "Kelly's Roast Beef". http://www.myrecdept.com/depttemplate/programscheduledetails.asp?RecProgramID=6168#12427

-- Somerville, MA. City of Somerville Annual Movie Series. Jul 10. "The Lost Boys". Seven Hills Park. Somerville, MA. 617-666-3311. http://www.somervillema.gov/coscontent/documents/SomerMovie%20Poster%2020081.pdf

-- Weymouth, MA. Weymouth Summer Outdoor Movies. Jul 10. 6:30pm. "Johnny the K". http://www.weymouth.ma.us/news/news.asp?id=10117

-- Falmouth, MA. Wednesday Movies Under the Stars. July 9, "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang". Peg Noonan Park, Main Street, Falmouth, MA. 508-487-3424. At dusk. http://www.falmouthchamber.com/more/calendar/event/909

-- Onset, MA. Onset Bay Movie Co. Jul 10, "Spiderman 3". The Bandshell, behind 197 Onset Avenue, Onset, MA. 508-295-9026. http://www.myspace.com/obmco

"Arts on the Arcade" is basically an artists market next to a farmers market, at Boston City Hall Plaza. Jul 9-Aug 27, Mondays and Wednesdays from 11am - 3pm. 617-635-3911. http://www.cityofboston.gov/arts/visual/artmart.asp

The Brimfield Antiques Festival happens three times a year, but they're the largest in New England and probably worth the visit. You could spend an entire weekend there. Jul 8-13, Rt 20 at Rt 19. Brimfield, MA. (413) 245 3209. Off of Rt 20. http://www.brimfield.com

While you're out west, check out the Berkshires Green Healthy Living Expo. It's all about wellness and global warming. Jul 12-13. Rain or Shine. http://berkshiresgreenandhealthylivingexpo.com

Jazz in July is a blanket term for a series of different jazz performances, in different venues around Boston. Jul 8-31. Boston Metro. http://www.jazzinjulyboston.com/

Similarly, the Elma Lewis Playhouse in the Park is a series of performances connected only by their venue: Franklin Park. Jul 8-Aug 19. Their big opening night is July 8. Boston Metro. (617) 282-2881. http://fpc.squarespace.com/playhouse-in-the-park

Another concert series which is too long to be a 'festival' is the Lowell Summer Music Series, Jul 11-Sep 12. On July 11, they feature the Indigo Girls. On August 16, they feature a performance of Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing". Lowell, MA. 978-970-5200. Arlo Guthrie comes August 23, Bruce Hornsby August 14, and there are actually a surprisingly large number of stars coming. http://www.lowellsummermusic.org

July 9 there is a "Landmarks Orchestra Festival" at the Hatch Shell, which is on the Esplanade in Boston. That's a short walk towards the river from Copley Square in Back Bay. Apparently they play classical music. Jul 9, and every Wednesday through September 10. 7pm. Free. See Web site for schedule. http://www.mass.gov/dcr/hatchevents.htm

There's really no reason why you'd travel 90 minutes to attend the Newburyport Riverfront Festival, even though it's free. But it would be fun to stop by if you're doing something else in the area, such as hitting the beach. Jul 11-12. Newburyport, MA. Associated with the radio station WXRV, 92.5 The River. http://www.newburyportchamber.org/Riverfront.shtml

Rock star Bon Jovi performs Jul 9-10 at the TD Banknorth Garden. http://www.evilticketmaster.com

Playing into the stereotype that Newport is for the elite, the Newport Music Festival seems to feature mainly classical music. Jul 11-27. Newport, RI. 401-849-0700. http://www.newportmusic.org

Do you like to swim way too much? Swim Across America is for you. Amongst other things, you can be part of a relay team swimming across Boston Harbor. Jul 11-12. Boston Metro. http://www.swimacrossamerica.org/boston

Outdoor theatre:

-- This one I'm really excited about! I've seen the theatre performance, "The Real Inspector Hound", which is by Tom Stoppard, who wrote the screenplay for Shakespeare in Love, and also Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead. Anyway, the Apollinaire Theatre Company is putting on a performance, July 9-26, of this and also Hidden in This Picture, by Aaron Sorkin. Mary O'Malley Park, Commandant's Way, on the Chelsea Waterfront (Admiral's Hill). 617-887-2336. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Play is by the fish sculpture by the dock. http://apollinairetheatre.com/productions/productions.html

-- Shakespeare on the Common - As You Like It. Jul 16. Aug 3. Boston Metro. Boston Common. Boston, MA. 617-532-1252. Free. At the Parade Grounds on Boston Common, near Beacon & Charles. Rent a chair for $5. 2008: July 16 & 17 are rehearsals open to the public. http://www.freeshakespeare.org

-- Shakespeare Under the Stars, Hadley, MA, to July 27. http://www.hampshireshakespeare.org

-- The Seagull, by Anton Chekhov, to Sep 7, and Hay Fever, by Noel Coward, July 24 - Sep 14. Boston MA. http://www.publicktheatre.com

Continuing events:

-- Brockton Country Fair, to Jul 13, http://www.brocktonfair.com

-- Longfellow Family Sundays Art in the Park, Sundays to Aug 31, 1-4pm, Cambridge. http://www.nps.gov/long

Hint of the week: despite what you'd think from the name, there are no ants in antarctica. I looked it up.

-Johnny

p.s. Like this blog? Do me a favor and tell your friends. Get it as a weekly email at http://tiny.cc/uYULq

Hey-o,

Here are over 40 strange events to do this week!

My top pick of the week -- you really must try this! -- is the Declaration of Independence Re-enactment, Jul 4, in Quincy, MA. I went last year and it blew my mind. Attendees portray actual roles of men who attended the constitutional congress, and you debate slavery and taxation and justice. It's 2pm and 7pm so you have plenty of time afterwards get yourself to some fireworks. http://www.discoverquincy.com/calendarYear.htm

What you don't want to do is go to any major beach or public park on July 4. These beaches and parks are open all the time, you know, not just one day.

An exception is the annual Boston 4th of July Fireworks & Concert is Jul 3 (practice) and Jul 4 (concert) on the Esplanade in Boston, MA. It combines fireworks and the Boston Pops orchestra. The way to do it is arrive way early and think of it like a day in the park. Bring plenty of drink and food. http://www.july4th.org

Or how about getting out of town? There are also tons of other July 4th Celebrations: Salem, Worcester, Edgartown, New Bedford, Plymouth, Lenox, Falmouth, Orleans, Fall River, Marblehead, Pittsfield, Wakefield, Chatham, and more. http://www.visit-massachusetts.com/eventsfourth.html

Especially special will be the Independence Day Celebration at Sturbridge Village, the recreation museum with live actors in Sturbridge, MA. Jul 4. (508) 347-3362. Live action recreation museum of 1850's. http://www.osv.org

I went to Gloucester last year for their pre-July 4th fireworks and it was well worth the trip. They shoot 'em off from the right of the beach, up the hill, near a huge rock. July 3. http://www.spnea.org/things/calendar/Events.asp?State=MA

Preceding this is a "Horribles Parade" in Gloucester, which sounds like a kids Halloween procession! Jul 3. http://www.capeannvacations.com/festival-event.cfm?id=26

Following is a beach bonfire on July 4 in Rockport! I've never seen a bonfire. http://www.rockportusa.com/festival-event.cfm?id=26

The city of Springfield has its own 4th of July website at http://www.spiritofspringfield.org/starspangle

Are you insane? Perhaps you'd like to be in three different 4th of July parades! Boston at 9am, Sudbury at 1pm, and Wakefield at 5pm. http://www.mcvfifesanddrums.org/calendar.html

The weird event of the week is undoubtedly Firefly, which is an arts festival similar to Burning Man. It's a festival for artists, not just a bunch of merchants hawking goods. Everyone who comes should bring some kind of artistic talent, even if it's small. Jul 3-6, in Vermont. Bring your own tent. http://fireflyartscollective.org

Slightly closer, try the Old Orchard Beach Parade & Sandcastle Sculpture Competition, Jul 3-4 in southern Maine. Old Orchard Street at West Grand Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME. 207-934-9068. Parade, square dancing, sand sculptures. Less than 2 hours from Boston. And Fireworks July 4th. http://www.oldorchardbeachmaine.com/Activity.htm

Way way closer, the Marblehead Summer Festival of Arts is Jul 3-6. They have kites, model boat building, wood carving, sand sculpture, looks surprisingly interesting. And they have their own horribles parade! http://www.marbleheadfestival.org

The Brockton Country Fair is yet another agricultural fair. They have fireworks nearly every day! And a "baby contest". What are the babies supposed to do? Hint: it occurs right after Lucky Bob the Juggler. Jul 2-13. Historic Brockton Fairgrounds, RT. 123 Brockton, MA. 508-586-8000. Rt 24S to Exit 17A, Rt 123E (Belmont St) two miles on the right. http://www.brocktonfair.com

Starting July 3, one of the mansions in Newport does a variety of interactive events, such as a "Murder Mystery" night (Thursdays) and "An Evening with the Astors" (Tuesday nights) and a Big Band night (July 30, August 30), which includes dance lessons. I've never been but how could it not be great! Beechwood Mansion, Newport RI. Jul 3-Sep 25. 401-846-3772. Dance lesson at 7pm, band begins at 7:30pm. Traditional, swing, latin dance. http://www.astorsbeechwood.com

Apparently someone thought Independence Day would be a good time to hold a conflicting event. The Cape Verdean Festival is July 4 on City Hall Plaza, One City Hall Plaza Boston, MA. 617-442-6644. Free. Music, martial arts, food, entertainment. http://www.cityofboston.gov/arts/festivalschedule.asp

The USS Constitution, also known as Old Ironsides, is a ship museum and they are having a "Turn-Around Cruise" on July 4. They also feature a Sunset Parade, which is Jul 5. Boston, MA. 7pm-8:30pm: fife & drum, Marine Corps, firing cannons, gun exercises. http://www.ussconstitution.navy.mil/EventCalendar.htm

Greater New Bedford Summerfest has six different stages and they claim that over 20,000 attend. Jul 4-6. It's in New Bedford, MA, where the whaling museum is. 508-999-5231. http://www.newbedfordsummerfest.com and http://www.whalingmuseum.org

Berkshires Arts Festival is Jul 4-6. It is a juried art event with 175 artists all in tents outdoors. Great Barrington, MA. 413-298-0175. http://www.berkshiresartsfestival.com

Oh and speaking of Great Barrington, I can't resist telling you about Barong Imports which claims to be the largest asian art importer in the US. I've visited and it's quite amazing. http://www.barongimports.com/

I have no idea what the "Hike 'n' Haiku" event is, but it's definitely odd and I am listing it. I guess the first names, Walk 'n' Write, and Promenade & Poetry didn't appeal. Jul 6. Notchview Park, Windsor, MA. http://www.thetrustees.org/pages/37262hikenhaiku.cfm

If you're in Cambridge, then you may have heard of the Longfellow Historic Site. Well, they have an event every Sunday called the "Longfellow Family Sundays Art in the Park". Basically there's music and you may get to read a poem or join in a painting workshop. Or just hang out with a picnic lunch on a blanket on the lawn. It sounds like not exactly an event worth traveling for, but mellow and serene if you are already local. Sundays, Jul 6-Aug 31. 105 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA. 617-876-4491. Usually 1-4pm. http://www.nps.gov/long

Featuring what is easily one of the worst-looking Web sites I've seen lately, the New England Summer Nationals is the largest auto event on the East Coast. Jul 3-6. They destroy cars and add flame throwers, it sounds very "wrestling fan" but hey, it might be good. In Oxford, MA, which is near Worcester. 508-987-2652. http://www.summernationals.com

The touristy event of the week is Boston Harborfest. It features over 200 activities that are pretty much available year-round, such as guided tours, but a few special ones as well:

--July 5. "Party On The Plaza", but no time is listed. City Hall Plaza, Boston MA. Perhaps this is the same as "Drums in the Night", which begins at 7pm, Jul 5. Free.

--July 6. "Chowderfest", which basically means, you show up, you eat some chowder. That should hold you for at least 30 minutes of fun. Possibly an hour if you're from Memphis. http://www.bostonharborfest.com

-- "Paul Revere Tonight", a one-man play or re-enactment of Paul Revere. At the Old North Church, Boston MA. July 1-6. Seems pretty good. http://www.oldnorth.com/harborfest/events.htm

-- July 1-6, 3-5pm. Re-enact the Boston Tea Party! Go to the New England Aquarium, raid a British ship, and fire the cannons! Make a reservation. They also seem to do it all summer. http://www.libertyfleet.com

-- July 4. A re-enactment of the "no tax on tea" town meeting in 1773. Boston. July 4 at 11am. http://www.oldsouthmeetinghouse.org/

-- They're also letting people try writing with a quill pen on July 6. http://www.oldsouthmeetinghouse.org/

There's also a Town Meeting Re-Enactment from 1774 on July 6 at the North Bridge benches, in Concord, MA. 1:30pm and 3pm. http://www.nps.gov/mima/planyourvisit/events.htm

Outdoor movies continue:

-- Boston, MA. Movies by Moonlight at the Boston Harbor Hotel. July 4. "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)". At dusk. 617-439-7000. http://www.bhh.com/specialeventcal.htm

-- Dorchester, MA. Neponset River Greenway Festival & Movie Series. Jul 3. Pope John Paul II Park, Gallivan Blvd, Dorchester, MA. 617-542-7696. All movies begin at sunset, around 7:30-8pm. Every Thursday. http://www.bostonnatural.org

-- Falmouth, MA. Wednesday Movies Under the Stars. July 2, "Game Plan". Peg Noonan Park, Main Street, Falmouth, MA. 508-487-3424. At dusk. http://www.falmouthchamber.com/more/calendar/event/909

-- Onset, MA. Onset Bay Movie Co. Jul 3, "Transformers". The Bandshell, behind 197 Onset Avenue, Onset, MA. 508-295-9026. http://www.myspace.com/obmco

-- It's not outdoors, but Dinner and a Movie at the Hampshire House, continues, Jul 5, "Rear Window". 7pm. $30

Also outdoor theatre, The Seagull, by Anton Chekhov, July 3 - Sep 7, and Hay Fever, by Noel Coward, July 24 - Sep 14. All this at the stage near the Charles River off Storrow Drive west, Boston MA. http://www.publicktheatre.com

I like circuses so I am listing this one. It is called UniverSoul Circus, the idea being that its performers are drawn from all over the world, unlike other circuses... wait a second, they usually draw talent from foreign countries, too. Hmm. July 1-6. http://www.universoulcircus.com

Continuing events:

-- Amesbury Days, in Amesbury, MA, to July 4. http://www.amesburyma.gov/home.nfs?a=amesbury&group=503

-- Shakespeare Under the Stars, Hadley, MA, to July 27. http://www.hampshireshakespeare.org

Hint of the week: if you're on the subway and the car's not air conditioned, skip ahead to the next car, it probably is.

-Johnny

p.s. Like this blog? Do me a favor and tell your friends. Get it as a weekly email at http://tiny.cc/uYULq and see my huge list of 2000 activities at http://tiny.cc/qH4YT