Boston Events Insider - Overview: December 2008 Archives

December 2008 Archives

Boston Events Insider: New Years Eve & First Night Parades near Boston, Massachusetts: 12/28/08

The big event of the week is New Years Eve and I'll be so disappointed if you go to a bar where the "New Years Celebration" is just like everyday business and your idea of a creative celebration of life is getting drunk and forgetting what happened. You can do better! I now present the biggest list of arty New Years Eve events in New England. I know it's the biggest because I Googled every single town in the state, so much that Google briefly shut me out for too much searching. So here are some great ideas.

Oh, and the radio show that I have a spot on now has podcast, so you can listen to Johnny's List anytime. Just go to Out with Joe and you can listen to the whole program, or just click on my segment.

-Johnny

First Night Celebrations
First Night Boston	Dec 31	Boston Metro
Let's start with the big one in Boston, First Night. You buy one ticket and get admission to dozens of dance, music, & participatory events, all within walking distance of each other downtown. It's really fantastic and you must give it a shot. It's the largest New Years celebration in the country. The trick is to stand in the back and don't be afraid to leave & go next door midway through a performance. Starts in the early afternoon and goes through midnight. Various Locations, Boston, MA. more
First Night Grand Procession & Fireworks	Dec 31	Boston Metro
Don't want to pay for a ticket? The parade is free and ends with a big bang in Boston Common, where there are usually ice sculptures. (Except last year it wasn't cold enough and they had some kind of snow-plastic instead.) Starts at 5:30pm and ends with fireworks at Boston Common at 7pm, and then over Boston Harbor at midnight. From Hynes Convention Center to Boston Common, Boston, MA. more
First Night Workshop @ New England Aquarium	Dec 30	Boston Metro
Want to join in the parade? Head to the New England Aquarium a day early and make your own giant puppet on a stick to carry. 10am-3pm. Parade down Boylston Street on New Year's Eve. New England Aquarium, Boston, MA. more
Radio Drama for First Night	Dec 31	Boston Metro
One of the First Night events I'll single out is this 1940s radio drama. They have actors at microphones pretending to be in a sound studio doing a radio show. I've seen it and it's interesting and fun. 7:30pm. Orpheum Theatre, 1 Hamilton Place, Boston, MA. more
First Night Tours @ Otis House	Dec 31	Boston Metro
While you're at First Night, make sure to visit this historic 1796 mansion right in downtown Boston. 11am-9pm. 141 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA.617-227-3956. more
Bright Night Providence	Dec 31	Rhode Island
Tired of First Night Boston? Why not get a hotel room and visit another city? Everyone wants a stake in this game. Providence has a First Night experience, too, with two sets of fireworks, and world-famous acrobats as the headliners! Providence, RI. more
First Night Worcester, MA	Dec 31	Worcester
But wait! Worcester is getting in on the act, too! And they'll have shuttles so you don't have to drive. Worcester, MA. more
First Night Northampton, MA	Dec 31	Western Mass
Further away but trying harder than Worcester is First Night Northampton. Northampton, MA. more
New Year's Needham, MA	Dec 31	Metro West
They'll have a respectable First Night in Metro West as well. Needham, MA. more
City Celebrates! New Yearâ€™s Eve, New Bedford, MA	Dec 31	Southern Mass
There was a First Night New Bedford, but the city yanked it and replaced it with "City Celebrates", which is similar. Here's the website. New Bedford, MA. more
New Years Rockport Eve	Dec 31	South Shore
There will also be short 45-minute performances at 15 venues in the downtown area of Rockport. Rockport Downtown area, Rockport, MA. more
Beverlyâ€™s New Year	Dec 31	North Shore
There's a parade at 6pm and the celebrations end early, at 8pm. And there don't seem to be fireworks. Cabot Street, Beverly, MA.978-922-8558. more
First Night Chatham, MA	Dec 31	Cape Cod
This is the only one on Cape Cod. Chatham, MA. more
Billerica Family First Night	Dec 31	Northern Mass
In Billerica they'll have ice sculptures and a parade in front of city hall, but no town-wide performances, and it ends at 8pm. Billerica, MA. more
Brockton's Blast into 2009	Dec 31	South Shore
Similarly, in Brockton there's a celebration outside city hall until 8pm that goes no further or later. Brockton, MA. more
First Night Newport, RI	Dec 31	Rhode Island
They're also having a smaller one in Newport. Newport, RI. more
First Night Westerly, RI	Dec 31	Rhode Island
Still smaller, but respectable -- an ice skating rink and fireworks -- is in Westerly. Downtown Westerly, Westerly, RI.401-596-7761. more
First Night Portsmouth, NH	Dec 31	New Hampshire
I couldn't find anything in Concord, the capitol of New Hampshire, but they're having a First Night celebration in Portsmouth. Portsmouth, NH. more
First Night Wolfeboro, NH	Dec 31	New Hampshire
This is the only other one in NH that I found. Wolfeboro, NH. more
First Night Hartford, CT	Dec 31	Connecticut
Fireworks at 6pm and midnight. Hartford, CT. more
First Night Danbury, CT	Dec 31	Connecticut
And in Danbury. Danbury, CT. more
First Night Wesport, CT	Dec 31	Connecticut
And more, in Westport CT and Weston, CT. Westport, CT. more
First Night Burlington, VT	Dec 31	Vermont
And it's the Quadricentennial celebration in Vermont. Quadricentennial means it's really old, except as compared to anything in Europe, Africa, and Asia. Burlington, VT. more
First Night Montpelier, VT	Dec 31	Vermont
Burlington is not actually the capitol of Vermont. It's Montpelier, the "smallest capitol in the nation", which is doing it too. Montpelier, VT. more
First Night St. Johnsbury, VT	Dec 31	Vermont
St. Johnsbury, VT is about as far north as Montpelier. Maybe you could visit and go skiing, too. St. Johnsbury, VT. more
First Night Quincy, MA	Dec 31	South Shore
Quincy appears to have cancelled their First Night celebration, according to the Patriot Ledger. But it's unclear so I'll list it anyway. Call them. Quincy, MA. more
First Night Parties
New Years' Eve Contra Dances	Dec 31	Metro West
OK, let's say you're afraid of walking in the cold and just want to stay in a single place for New Years. Pick up any paper and you'll see that restaurants and bars are having their usual non-special special celebrations. Here are some parties that are out of the ordinary. The first one is a fantastic folk dance in Concord. 8pm-1am. Scout House., 74 Walden St., Concord, MA. more
New Year's Eve Dance Party at Folk Arts Center of New England	Dec 31	Boston Metro
Or, try this folk dance, which is more easily subway accessible. Church, 11 Homer Street, Newton, MA. more
Nudist resort New Years'	Dec 31	Connecticut
Or, perhaps you'd like to try a party at a nudist resort. Woodstock, CT. more
New Year's Eve @ Wachusett Mountain	Dec 31	Worcester
Most ski resorts are having a New Years celebration. I'll list only a couple for you. The best one like Wachusett Mountain have firworks and let you ski at night until midnight! And they have snow tubing, too. There's a shuttle from the Commuter Rail you can take. See their website. Princeton, MA. more
Nashoba Ski Area New Year's Eve Celebration	Dec 31	Northern Mass
Skiing, riding, tubing until 11:30pm and then a parade and fireworks! Let's hope the fireworks don't start an avalanche. Westford, MA.978-692-3033. more
Roaring 20s New Years Eve @ Beechwood Mansion	Dec 31	Rhode Island
Doing the New Year 1920s style in an old Newport mansion sounds like so much fun!! Call immediately; they may already be sold out. Astors' Beechwood Mansion, 580 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI. more
Framingham History Center New Year's Eve	Dec 31	Metro West
And here's another historical society closer to Boston. But it's unclear from their website if they're doing it "old timey". Framingham, MA. more
New Year's Eve Sober Dance (Wareham)	Dec 31	South Shore
They'll have folk dancing in Wareham, also. Wareham, MA. more
New Year's Eve at the Irish Cultural Center of New England	Dec 31	South Shore
OK, if none of the above appeals, I give up. I have failed to separate you from the desire to just get smashed and dance. Here are a few of the more exceptional of the normal parties. 200 New Boston Dr, Canton, MA. more
Spirit of Boston New Year's Cruise	Dec 31	Boston Metro
Here's a creative idea: seeing the fireworks from a ship. Call for reservations. Commonwealth Pier, Boston, MA.617-748-1450. more
The Resolution Ball	Dec 31	Boston Metro
A young professional event, i.e. a singles thing, black tie optional, Boston's longest-running New Years' Eve gala, dinner included, cocktails, dancing. Westin Boston Waterfront, 425 Summer Street, Boston, MA.781-444-7771. more
New Year's Dancin' Eve	Dec 31 - Jan 4	Metro West
This one's not just a party, it's an entire weekend for dance lovers! So I decided to include it. Marriott Hotel, Burlington, MA. more
New Years Day
New Years Day Kite Fly	Jan 1	North Shore
You can learn to fly a kite in Nahant alongside some pros. Call for location, Nahant MA.978-937-8290. more
Free Day at Roger Williams Park Zoo	Jan 1	Rhode Island
Admission is free. It's a great excuse to check out the best zoo in Rhode Island. 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, RI.401-785-3510. more
First Day Free @ Gardner Museum	Jan 1	Boston Metro
It's also free at the Gardner Museum, the museum that never changes (except the garden, and the performances, and they're building an addition.). 280 The Fenway, Boston, MA.(617)566-1401. more
Free Admission to the Old State House Museum	Jan 1 - Jan 31	Boston Metro
Going a step further, the entire month of January is free for Massachusetts residents (bring an ID) at the Old State House Museum. 206 Washington St , Boston, MA, Boston, MA. more
L Street Brownies New Year's Day Swim	Jan 1	Boston Metro
Every year, crazy people go for a swim on New Years. Why not show up and cheer them on? What a way to eliminate a hangover. 2009: 10am registration, 11am swim. Curley Community Center, 1663 Columbia Road, Boston, MA.617.635.5104. more
Penguin Plunge	Jan 1	Rhode Island
Or they tell special needs kids they should jump in. 2009: 12pm. Mackeral Cove, Jamestown, RI. more
Hangover Classic (race and polar swim)	Jan 1	Boston Metro
This one's near Newburyport, MA. Salisbury Beach, 3 Broadway Street, Salisbury, MA. more
New Years' Day Polar Bear Plunge	Jan 1	Rhode Island
Insane people dip into the water. 2009: 11am-12:30pm. Easton's Beach, Memorial Blvd, Newport, RI.401-846-0028. more
The Week in Weird
Moby Dick - The Marathon	Jan 3 - Jan 4	Southern Mass
OK look there's more going on in January, just... Not much more. Here's a gem. People gather and listen to a nonstop reading of Herman Melville's classic, Moby Dick. It takes 25 hours. New Bedford Whaling Museum, New Bedford, MA. more
Sleigh rides & smores at Point of View Farm	Jan 2 - Feb 28	New Hampshire
Weekends through February, you can get a real sleigh ride in New Hampshire. 160 South Road, Deerfield, NH.603-463-7974. more
Kimball Farm Horse-Draw Sleigh Rides	Jan 2 - Feb 28	Northern Mass
Or closer to Boston in Haverhill, MA, if there's snow. Kimball Farm Corn Maze, 780 East Broadway, Haverhill, MA.978 521-3990. more
Quadtrantids Meteor Shower	Jan 3 - Jan 4	Metro West
Or stay up late Jan 3rd to see the meteor shower, which peaks at 1am Jan 4th. Go someplace without any city lights, like a large field or lake. Everywhere. more more

Like this blog? Add your email at johnnyslist.blogspot.com to get it weekly, and see my spreadsheet of 2000 New England Activities. Send me encouragement and ideas at JohnnysAlwaysOn@yahoo.com. Get inspired at Wheel Questions, my other blog.

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 28, 2008 12:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Holiday Lights & Christmas Lights in Boston, Massachusetts, and beyond

This is the very, very last week to go out and see some holiday lights at night. Don't miss it!

Holiday Lights		grade	S Dec 28	M Dec 29	T Dec 30	W Dec 31	R Jan 1	F Jan 2	S Jan 3	S Jan 4
Stone Zoo's Zoolights	Stoneham, MA
Daily 5-9pm. 250,000 lights and lots of animals. But the animals are mainly sleeping in their holes and the rest are poorly lit. Only OK. Santa is available. 149 Pond Street, Stoneham, MA.617-989-2000. more		B-	X	X	X
Holiday Landscapes	Stoneham, MA
It's a private home but a really expansive lights display, with lights that flash in rhythm to music broadcast over an FM transmitter. 83 Franklin St, Stoneham, MA. more		?	X	X	X	X	X
Edaville Railroad's Christmas Festival of Lights	Carver, MA
The biggest and best "holiday lights" display in New England. It's quite non-religious, with Santa letting kids sit on his lap but also plenty of generic fare like Frosty the Snowman and a tip of the hat to Hannukah. I don't think you'll see Jesus at all. Come at night and take a 20-minute train ride, or ride the ferris wheel our carousel. They have 7 million lights, and fireworks every Friday night in December. See website for coupons. Daily. I've been and it's a ton of fun even for adults who are kids at heart and like people-watching. Rt 3S to exit 6, Rt 44W for 8 miles to Rt 58 for 8 miles. Pine Street, Carver, MA.877-EDAVILLE. more		A+	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
La Salette Shrine Festival of Lights	Attleboro, MA
Daily, 5-9pm. Very religious, it's a shrine. Over 300,000 lights covering 10 acres. Trolley rides Fri-Sun. 947 Park Street, Attleboro, MA.508-222-5410. more		B+	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Springfield's Bright Night at Forest Park	Springfield, MA
5-9pm, but to 11pm Fri, Sat. 550,000 lights. Surprisingly good though -- the 2nd to Edaville. Check out Springfield Museums or zoo (open during school holidays in Dec) at same time. Daily. And check out the holiday lights at Dunn & Phillips, 185 Belmont Ave., Springfield. Rt 83, Springfield, MA.413-733-3800. more		A	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
White Mountain Holiday Magic Light Park	Campton, NH
This one features outdoor lights you can drive through in your car, or on their horse-drawn sleigh, and a non-commercial holiday gift center, too. Fri, Sat, Sun, 4:30-8:30pm. Exit 28 off I-93. Branch Brook Campground, Route 49, Campton, NH.(603) 726-7001. more		A-	X			X
Lighted Christmas Rides @ Charmingfare Farm	Candia, NH
They have a 30 minute horse drawn night ride. Live reindeer. Petting zoo. Route 27, Candia, NH.603-483-5623. more		?	X			X
La Salette Shrine & Center	Enfield, NH
Another very religious site has 45,000 evening lights spread across 30 acres. 603-632-7087. more		B	X	X	X	X
Annual Fantasy of Lights	New Haven, CT
Benefits the Easter Seals. Light House Point Park, New Haven, CT.(203) 777-2000. more		?	X	X	X	X

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 28, 2008 12:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Johnny's List of Quirky Boston Events: 12/24/08

Here are some last minute additions for this week! Happy Holidays!

-Johnny

This Just In
Oktoberfest in December	Dec 27	Worcester
9:30pm-12:30am. It's a belated Oktoberfest with participatory German dancing, a cake eatest contest, and a yodeling contest. Nick's German Restaurant, 124 Millbury Street, Worcester, MA.508-752-6213.
Christmas Eve Caroling - Louisburg Square on Beacon Hill	Dec 24	Boston Metro
7:30pm. Beth Ketterson is the contact person is beth@ketterson.com, 617-854-9019, but Mary Jane Sawyer is the contact for bell ringing, 781-444-5119. A different house at Louisburg Square hosts every year. The tradition of singing Christmas carols started here! I called to confirm it is open to anyone who wants to come. Um, they'll have caroling too, right? 5 Louisburg Square, Boston, MA.

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 24, 2008 12:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Holiday Lights & Christmas Lights in Boston, Massachusetts, and beyond

This week most of the holiday lights close down, although a few hang on through New Years. It's another good activity for Christmas Day or this week.

Holiday Lights		grade	S Dec 21	M Dec 22	T Dec 23	W Dec 24	R Dec 25	F Dec 26	S Dec 27	S Dec 28
Millis Wonderland	Millis, MA
Nightly 6-10pm. This is a private home, not a commercial "attraction", but still good. Slowest nights are Tuesday-Thursday. 60 Causeway Street, Millis, MA. more		?	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Stone Zoo's Zoolights	Stoneham, MA
Daily 5-9pm. 250,000 lights and lots of animals. But the animals are mainly sleeping in their holes and the rest are poorly lit. Only OK. Santa is available. 149 Pond Street, Stoneham, MA.617-989-2000. more		B-	X	X	X	X		X	X	X
Holiday Landscapes	Stoneham, MA
It's a private home but a really expansive lights display, with lights that flash in rhythm to music broadcast over an FM transmitter. 83 Franklin St, Stoneham, MA. more		?	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Edaville Railroad's Christmas Festival of Lights	Carver, MA
The biggest and best "holiday lights" display in New England. It's quite non-religious, with Santa letting kids sit on his lap but also plenty of generic fare like Frosty the Snowman and a tip of the hat to Hannukah. I don't think you'll see Jesus at all. Come at night and take a 20-minute train ride, or ride the ferris wheel our carousel. They have 7 million lights, and fireworks every Friday night in December. See website for coupons. Daily. I've been and it's a ton of fun even for adults who are kids at heart and like people-watching. Rt 3S to exit 6, Rt 44W for 8 miles to Rt 58 for 8 miles. Pine Street, Carver, MA.877-EDAVILLE. more		A+	X	X	X	X		X	X	X
Bridgewater Festival Of Lights	Bridgewater, MA
Free. 200,000 lights with a walk-through village. Santa and free coffee and hot chocolate by an outdoor fireplace. At the private home of Dale and Cindy Higgins. 5-9pm M-F, 5-10pm SS. 55 Alexander Drive, Bridgewater, MA.508-279-2894. more		?	X	X	X	X	X
La Salette Shrine Festival of Lights	Attleboro, MA
Daily, 5-9pm. Very religious, it's a shrine. Over 300,000 lights covering 10 acres. Trolley rides Fri-Sun. 947 Park Street, Attleboro, MA.508-222-5410. more		B+	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Holiday Lights at Buttonwood Zoo	New Bedford, MA
6-9pm. And many daytime visits by Santa, see Web site. 425 Hawthorn Street, New Bedford, MA.(508) 991-6178. more		?	X
Springfield's Bright Night at Forest Park	Springfield, MA
5-9pm, but to 11pm Fri, Sat. 550,000 lights. Surprisingly good though -- the 2nd to Edaville. Check out Springfield Museums or zoo (open during school holidays in Dec) at same time. Daily. And check out the holiday lights at Dunn & Phillips, 185 Belmont Ave., Springfield. Rt 83, Springfield, MA.413-733-3800. more		A	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
White Mountain Holiday Magic Light Park	Campton, NH
This one features outdoor lights you can drive through in your car, or on their horse-drawn sleigh, and a non-commercial holiday gift center, too. Fri, Sat, Sun, 4:30-8:30pm. Exit 28 off I-93. Branch Brook Campground, Route 49, Campton, NH.(603) 726-7001. more		A-	X					X	X	X
Lighted Christmas Rides @ Charmingfare Farm	Candia, NH
They have a 30 minute horse drawn night ride. Live reindeer. Petting zoo. Route 27, Candia, NH.603-483-5623. more		?	X		X	X		X	X	X
La Salette Shrine & Center	Enfield, NH
Another very religious site has 45,000 evening lights spread across 30 acres. 603-632-7087. more		B	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Candlelight Stroll @ Strawbery Banke	Portsmouth, NH
Strawbery Banke is a re-enactment museum where you'll meet actors dress as people from history. This event features the 18th century and has live music, a bonfire, participatory caroling, demonstrations on ancient musical instruments and the Masons, hundreds of candles, a gingerbread house contest, and more. Sounds really great! 4-9pm. Marcy Street, Portsmouth, NH.603-422-7514. more		A+	X

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 21, 2008 12:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Johnny's List of Quirky Boston Events: 12/21/08

It's a tough week out there if you want a break from family goodness or merchant madness! But I found a few gems for you. Happy holidays. :)

-Johnny

The Week in Weird
Scandal Tour of Gore Place	Dec 26	Metro West
The event of the week is a breath of fresh non-Xmas air at Gore Place, the historical mansion. They're doing a special "scandal tour" all about what made for 18th and 19th century scandals in the time where you couldn't show a little ankle. It's essentially the only non-Xmas thing happening this week. 52 Gore Street, Waltham, MA.(781) 894-2798. more
All-Night Israeli Dance Marathon	Dec 24 - Dec 25	Boston Metro
But wait! Here's another. Who doesn't like dancing? I'm guessing this event is a lot of fun and they're inclusive of anyone interested in Israeli dance. Dec 24 @ 6pm-4am. MIT Walker Gym, 142 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, MA. more
Xmas Day: Movies, Chinese Restaurants, and a few Bars	Dec 25	Boston Metro
Now Christmas Day itself, that is a problem. A few movie theatres will be open. Restaurants are closed by law but a few bars will be open. Here's one, for example, The Fireplace in Brookline. And see IMDB for a list of movie theatres. Various Locations, Boston, MA. more more
Explore Jewish Boston by Foot on Christmas Day	Dec 25	Boston Metro
Also Christmas Day, see a walking tour of Beacon Hill, focusing on Jewish history. Reserve in advance. Meet at Milk St near Devonshire St, Boston, MA. more
Grand Menorah Lighting on Boston Common	Dec 21 - Dec 29	Boston Metro
And there will be menorah lightings on Boston Common every day, including Xmas. Boston Common near Park St. Subway, Boston, MA. more
Ho Ho Holidays
Holiday caroling - High Street Hill	Dec 24	Boston Metro
Always Christmas Eve at 5:45pm on the Upland Road Green. Upland Road Green, Brookline, MA. more
Various Churches Have Xmas Concerts	Dec 24 - Dec 25	Boston Metro
You won't have to look far to find a church that has a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day service. A couple top picks would be the First Church in Boston, which is Unitarian and shouldn't be too preachy, 12/24 at 5:30pm. Or the Christmas Pageant at Trinity Church, which is that huge church in Copley Square, 12/24 @ 4:30pm or the Xmas Day Service at 11am. Various Locations, Boston Area. more more
ImprovBoston Holiday Spectacular: What the Dickens!?!	Dec 18 - Dec 27	Boston Metro
Also if you're a little tired of the holidays, ImprovBoston will be lampooning the Season of Shopping, Dec 21 @ 8pm, Dec 22, 23, 29 @ 8pm & 10pm. Cambridge, MA. more
Recurring Events
Harvard Square Holiday Crafts Fair	Nov 29 - Dec 23	Boston Metro
Here's one that looks promising: a church selling goods. I seem to recall that made Jesus angry. Whatever, it's Christmas! Sat 10-7, Sun 12-6, M-F 12-7:30. Daily Dec 18-23. Church at corner of Church St & Mass Ave, Cambridge, MA. more
Shaker Supper @ Hancock Shaker Village	Nov 8 - Dec 27	Western Mass
You get a tour by re-enactors, an authentic dinner, and a cappella Shaker music from the 1830s. Nov 8, 29, and Dec 27. 34 Lebanon Mountain Rd., Hancock, MA. more
Petting Zoo in front of Seasons Four Furniture Store	Nov 21 - Dec 28	Metro West
It's a merchant event with a petting zoo, Santa, elmo, face painting, singers, balloon animals, etc. 1265 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA.(781)861-1200. more
The Nutcracker	Nov 28 - Dec 28	Boston Metro
And... It's The Nutcracker. If you're ever going to check out ballet (I haven't), this would probably be it. Opera House, Boston, MA. more

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 21, 2008 12:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Johnny's List of Quirky Boston Events: 12/19/08

Here are a few last-minute updates to what's happening this weekend!

-Johnny

This Just In
Main Street Caroling in Salem	Dec 20 - Dec 23	North Shore
Also at the Hawthorne Hotel, see website. Meet at the holiday tree in Derby Square, Salem, MA. more
Boston Santacon	Dec 20	Boston Metro
Hundreds of people dressed as Santa or another holiday character go bar hopping and on a spontaneous parade. Boston, MA.(206) 769-2092. more
Sparklefest Santa Parade in Harvard Square	Dec 21	Boston Metro
11am Santa visits and 12-1pm parade with musicians. From 1201 Mass Ave to 25 Brattle St., Cambridge, MA. more
Grand Menorah Lighting on Boston Common	Dec 21 - Dec 29	Boston Metro
4pm Dec 21 is the first lighting, and then more lightings all week. Boston Common near Park St. Subway, Boston, MA. more
Holiday Sing Along in Newburyport	Dec 20	Boston Metro
11am. Just $3, and get tix early, because the event sells out. Firehouse Center For The Arts, One Market Square, Newburyport, MA.(978) 462-7336. more

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 19, 2008 12:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Skiing Suggestions near Boston, Massachusetts & New Hampshire

Having stayed up all night for Black Friday Midnight Shopping Madness, at the end of November I visited New Hampshire, where the skiing season has begun in the White Mountains. Google maps told me to drive 8 miles through a national forest, where the road was officially closed and had all kinds of snow-covered, stream overflowing nasty. Part-way through, the car ran out of gas. As the sun was going down. But enough about people who don't know what the "E" means on the gas gauge and all that beeping.

I had a great time visiting two ski places that are only a 3 hour drive from Boston and are on opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's start with Cranmore Mountain, in North Conway, NH, at http://www.cranmore.com

First things first: Cranmore has only a 1200 foot vertical drop, the smallest of the major ski mountains in the area. However, they know their target market, and it is learners and families. According to Ben Wilcox, General Manager, says, "We definitely have some college students who come and have a great time with the family, but if you're looking for the wild party, we typically don't have that scene here." So you won't get cut off as much by drunken skiiers, and there's a separate (but within easy view) play area for kids when the adults want to take a break at the bar. Cranmore has a high-speed lift that gets you to the top in 4.5 minutes and contains a stunt park for crazy snowboarders called a jib park.

Cranmore is also a good place for a first-time experience. All ski areas teach lessons, of course, but Cranmore was founded on a teaching ethic and seems, like that old Avis Rent-A-Car ad, to make it their "We're #2 We Try Harder" mission. If you take three lessons, you get a free all-season pass, and there's a long beginner trail from the very top. Also -- a critical part to teaching -- is having something to do if it doesn't work out. Sometimes you try skiing and then... you want to stop. Well, Cranmore has a brand new "Fun Zone" play park, with an inflatable obstacle course and moon bounce that adults can take part in too, a climbing wall and a tennis court. And they have snow tubing which is so easy anyone can do it. You sit on a tube and slide down a snow slope, which is a lot more fun than it sounds because you can do it as a twosome or spinning around.

Best of all, Cranmore is right in the middle of North Conway, NH, which is a real town with fun shops and restaurants. According to Ben, "there's a wealth restaurants, movie theatres, and number of amenities here. Attitash is great, but people sometimes say it's nice to be up there but you have to drive a half-hour just to get there." It's your best chance to have something to do in the evenings as well as during the day. The other mountains in the area are either a bit of a drive from anywhere "real" or have sort of a resort village, which may be a little too Disneyworld.

On the other hand, what's wrong with Disneyworld? How American is that? I also visited Waterville Valley, which you can see at http://www.waterville.com/winter/

They have an entirely self-contained village of shops and hotels that is all run under one corporate umbrella. Event Planner Jamie Cobbett, said "Everything here's within walking distance. All the restaurants, all the lodges, all the nightlife is within walking distance", and they have shuttles that take you around so you really can just drive up and park your car once and not drive it until you leave. During the day they have ice skating and horse-drawn sleigh rides, and a whole recreation center for kids. However, when I pressed him on the nightlife issue it pretty much came down to bars and videogames.

That being said, it's hard to top Waterville Valley's slopes. With a 2,020 vertical drop, and a 6-minute high-speed chairlift ride, there's plenty of snowmaking and well-groomed trails. If you're an intermediate or expert skiier, that is. (There's only one beginner trail that gets any real height, about 25% up the mountain.) They have all the pipes and skate ramps you could want, and even have a new concept I've never heard of, "tree skiing" where you get to weave in-between and amongst actual trees. Obviously, that's only for experts, and for friends you don't like who trust you when you point.

The upshot is you really can't go wrong with either ski resort, but they're very different choices and depending on your personality only one may be for you. I would tend to send more adventurous skiiers to Waterville Valley so we ski bunnies can have soothing, family-friendly Cranmore Mountain to ourselves. The other mountains on my top list, which I hope to write about later, are New Hampshire attractions Attitash & Bear Peak, Mount Sunapee, Loon Mountain, Bretton Woods, and local favorite Wachusett Mountain which is near Worcester. I would tend to choose those over Nashoba Valley, Wildcat Mountain, Gunstock, Blue Hills, and Cannon Mountain. The big guns (and the only truly nationally ranked mountains) in New England are 4 hours' drive from Boston, Stowe and Killington in Vermont. Mad River Glen is also out there.

Skiing is easy to learn and I recommend you give it a shot. It's not that expensive, not nearly as scary or dangerous as you think, and you don't want to have regrets later in life that you didn't live life to the fullest.

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 15, 2008 12:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Holiday Lights & Christmas Lights in Boston, Massachusetts, and beyond

Holiday Lights		grade	M Dec 15	T Dec 16	W Dec 17	R Dec 18	F Dec 19	S Dec 20	S Dec 21	M Dec 22
Millis Wonderland	Millis, MA
Nightly 6-10pm. This is a private home, not a commercial "attraction", but still good. Slowest nights are Tuesday-Thursday. 60 Causeway Street, Millis, MA. more		?	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Stone Zoo's Zoolights	Stoneham, MA
Daily 5-9pm. 250,000 lights and lots of animals. But the animals are mainly sleeping in their holes and the rest are poorly lit. Only OK. Santa is available. 149 Pond Street, Stoneham, MA.617-989-2000. more		B-	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Holiday Landscapes	Stoneham, MA
It's a private home but a really expansive lights display, with lights that flash in rhythm to music broadcast over an FM transmitter. 83 Franklin St, Stoneham, MA. more		?	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Edaville Railroad's Christmas Festival of Lights	Carver, MA
The biggest and best "holiday lights" display in New England. It's quite non-religious, with Santa letting kids sit on his lap but also plenty of generic fare like Frosty the Snowman and a tip of the hat to Hannukah. I don't think you'll see Jesus at all. Come at night and take a 20-minute train ride, or ride the ferris wheel our carousel. They have 7 million lights, and fireworks every Friday night in December. See website for coupons. Daily. I've been and it's a ton of fun even for adults who are kids at heart and like people-watching. Rt 3S to exit 6, Rt 44W for 8 miles to Rt 58 for 8 miles. Pine Street, Carver, MA.877-EDAVILLE. more		A+	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Bridgewater Festival Of Lights	Bridgewater, MA
Free. 200,000 lights with a walk-through village. Santa and free coffee and hot chocolate by an outdoor fireplace. At the private home of Dale and Cindy Higgins. 5-9pm M-F, 5-10pm SS. 55 Alexander Drive, Bridgewater, MA.508-279-2894. more		?	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
La Salette Shrine Festival of Lights	Attleboro, MA
Daily, 5-9pm. Very religious, it's a shrine. Over 300,000 lights covering 10 acres. Trolley rides Fri-Sun. 947 Park Street, Attleboro, MA.508-222-5410. more		B+	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Holiday Lights at Buttonwood Zoo	New Bedford, MA
6-9pm. And many daytime visits by Santa, see Web site. 425 Hawthorn Street, New Bedford, MA.(508) 991-6178. more		?					X	X	X
Springfield's Bright Night at Forest Park	Springfield, MA
5-9pm, but to 11pm Fri, Sat. 550,000 lights. Surprisingly good though -- the 2nd to Edaville. Check out Springfield Museums or zoo (open during school holidays in Dec) at same time. Daily. And check out the holiday lights at Dunn & Phillips, 185 Belmont Ave., Springfield. Rt 83, Springfield, MA.413-733-3800. more		A	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
White Mountain Holiday Magic Light Park	Campton, NH
This one features outdoor lights you can drive through in your car, or on their horse-drawn sleigh, and a non-commercial holiday gift center, too. Fri, Sat, Sun, 4:30-8:30pm. Exit 28 off I-93. Branch Brook Campground, Route 49, Campton, NH.(603) 726-7001. more		A-					X	X	X
Lighted Christmas Rides @ Charmingfare Farm	Candia, NH
They have a 30 minute horse drawn night ride. Live reindeer. Petting zoo. Route 27, Candia, NH.603-483-5623. more		?					X	X	X
La Salette Shrine & Center	Enfield, NH
Another very religious site has 45,000 evening lights spread across 30 acres. 603-632-7087. more		B	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Candlelight Stroll @ Strawbery Banke	Portsmouth, NH
Strawbery Banke is a re-enactment museum where you'll meet actors dress as people from history. This event features the 18th century and has live music, a bonfire, participatory caroling, demonstrations on ancient musical instruments and the Masons, hundreds of candles, a gingerbread house contest, and more. Sounds really great! 4-9pm. Marcy Street, Portsmouth, NH.603-422-7514. more		A+						X	X

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 15, 2008 12:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Johnny's List of Quirky Boston Events: 12/15/08

This week's a little thin so I'm going to start encouraging you to go skiing in the next post! :)

-Johnny

The Week in Weird
Everyone Loves Latkes Party - with Storytelling and Klezmer Music	Dec 20	Boston Metro
It's Christmastime but you can still avoid it if you want to! OK, not really, but this might help: a free latkes event in Harvard Square. A latke is a potato pancake, from Jewish Eastern Europe. Also dancing to klezmer music! 1-3pm. Winthrop Park, JFK St & Winthrop St, Cambridge, MA. more
Boxborough Winter Solstice Sunrise	Dec 21	Metro West
7am-8am. This one sounds really beautiful. At a state park, get up early and watch the sun rise through stone structures that are possibly of Native American origin. Half Moon Meadow Brook, Depot Rd, Boxborough, MA.(978) 443-5588. more
Solstice Celebration @ Arcadia	Dec 21	Western Mass
And they're also doing it at Arcadia National Park, which is out in Western Mass. These people are smart about attendance and doing it for sundown, 5:30-8:30pm. Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, 127 Combs Road, Easthampton, MA.413-584-3009. more
Ho Ho Holidays
Illuminations Tour (Xmas Lights in Somerville)	Dec 20	Boston Metro
The holiday event of the week is in Somerville, where you can take a 45 minute trolley tour around town to look at the most decorated houses. I've been and highly recommend it, but you need to buy a ticket in advance. And although it's the best metro attraction, if you're willing to drive outbound, any of the holiday light attractions is better. They will also have caroling and refreshments. Somerville City Hall, Somerville, MA. more
Holiday caroling - Loose Canon Chorale	Dec 21	Boston Metro
My favorite Xmas Caroling group this week is coming up Sunday. 4pm. RSVP appreciated. Meet at Stony Brook MBTA stop, 180 Lamartine Street, Boston, MA. more
Winter Solstice in Legend and Song	Dec 19 - Dec 21	Boston Metro
There will also be sing-along moments during this concert which is old-timey folklore based rather than pop jingle based. Charlestown Working Theatre, Charlestown, MA. more
Caroling at Weston Public Library	Dec 17	Metro West
Or, if you want to stay inside, west of the city, visit the library in Weston, which will have live musicians accompanying. 7pm. Weston Public Library, Weston, MA. more
Holiday Brunch Sing Along	Dec 20 - Dec 24	North Shore
Also inside, and while eating food -- even better! -- is this event at Rockafellas, which is a restaurant. Probably smart to reserve ahead for this one. Rockafellas, Salem, MA.(978) 745-2411. more
ImprovBoston Holiday Spectacular: What the Dickens!?!	Dec 18 - Dec 27	Boston Metro
Also if you're a little tired of the holidays, ImprovBoston will be lampooning the Season of Shopping, Dec 21 @ 8pm, Dec 22, 23, 29 @ 8pm & 10pm. Cambridge, MA. more
Holiday Handjobs	Dec 19	Boston Metro
This is a strangely named arts and crafts sale. I don't normally list commercial events, but this one has a social, a festival air to it and will appeal to the quirky nature in you. VFW, 371 Summer Street, Somerville, MA. more
Recurring Events
Christmas by Candlelight @ OSV	Dec 12 - Dec 21	Worcester
You can also join in the caroling here, and learn about the history of Xmas at this 19th century re-enactment village. They'll have both modern Santa and old-timey Father Christmas. 5-9pm. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge, MA.508 347-3362. more
Holiday Murder Mystery at the Astors' Beechwood Mansion	Nov 7 - Dec 19	Rhode Island
And if those events are sold out, try the murder mystery dinner in Newport, RI at one of the mansions. The Astor's Beechwood Mansion is the only Newport destination that re-enacts the Victorian era with live actors. I've always wanted to check this out! It's every Friday @ 7pm through Dec 19. Reserve in advance. Astors' Beechwood Mansion, 580 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI. more
Shaker Supper @ Hancock Shaker Village	Nov 8 - Dec 27	Western Mass
You get a tour by re-enactors, an authentic dinner, and a cappella Shaker music from the 1830s. Nov 8, 29, and Dec 27. 34 Lebanon Mountain Rd., Hancock, MA. more
Faneuil Hall Marketplace Bellringers	Nov 29 - Dec 20	Boston Metro
Boston's tourist mecca is Fanueil Hall, a place as a resident I would normally avoid avoid avoid. However, they do have fun events there. One is this handbell performance. Saturdays, Nov 29-Dec 20. 12pm & 2pm outside the West End between Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. Bad weather: in Quincy Market, top floor. Faneuil Hall, Boston, MA.617-523-1300. more
Harvard Square Holiday Crafts Fair	Nov 29 - Dec 23	Boston Metro
I'm entirely skipping the Harvard Square Merchant event "Sparklefest", because there's no real event, it turns out, just a calendar of the usual stuff in Harvard. However, here's one that looks promising: a church selling goods. I seem to recall that made Jesus angry. Whatever, it's Christmas! Sat 10-7, Sun 12-6, M-F 12-7:30. Daily Dec 18-23. Church at corner of Church St & Mass Ave, Cambridge, MA. more
Victorian Christmas Feast @ Astors' Beechwood Mansion	Dec 6 - Dec 20	Rhode Island
Also re-enacted is this 19th century holiday feast at one of Newport's mansions. Fridays @ 7pm. Reserve in advance. Astors' Beechwood Mansion, 580 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI. more
The Nutcracker	Nov 28 - Dec 28	Boston Metro
And... It's The Nutcracker. If you're ever going to check out ballet (I haven't), this would probably be it. Opera House, Boston, MA. more

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 15, 2008 12:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Johnny's List of Quirky Boston Events: 12/12/08

I like to post this blog Sunday-Tuesday so you have plenty of time to prepare. However, last-minute updates always come through. Here are two. Want a super heads up? Check out the complete spreadsheet of 1600 year-round quirky events and 800 recurring venues and museums at http://wheelquestions.org/johnnys-list.xls and notice that it has several tabs at the bottom.

West Somerville Illuminations Walking & Caroling Tour
Dec 13
Boston Metro
Meet in front of JP Licks in Davis Square
Somerville, MA
617.625.6600 ext. 2985
Meet at 6pm
http://www.somervillechorus.com or http://www.somervilleartscouncil.org

Chanukah Bowling

This is some kind of community bowling for jews or people interested in Hannukah. OK, I admit it, I don't really know how inclusive this is, but they posted it on a major website so apparently the community is invited. Dec 14

Boston Metro

Lanes & Games, 195 Concord Turnpike, (Rt 2)

Cambridge, MA

http://www.friendshipcircleboston.org

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 12, 2008 12:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Holiday Lights & Christmas Lights in Boston, Massachusetts, and beyond

Holiday Lights		grade	S Dec 7	M Dec 8	T Dec 9	W Dec 10	R Dec 11	F Dec 12	S Dec 13	S Dec 14
Millis Wonderland	Millis, MA
Nightly 6-10pm. This is a private home, not a commercial "attraction", but still good. Slowest nights are Tuesday-Thursday. 60 Causeway Street, Millis, MA. more		?	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Stone Zoo's Zoolights	Stoneham, MA
Daily 5-9pm. 250,000 lights and lots of animals. But the animals are mainly sleeping in their holes and the rest are poorly lit. Only OK. Santa is available. 149 Pond Street, Stoneham, MA.617-989-2000. more		B-	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Holiday Landscapes	Stoneham, MA
It's a private home but a really expansive lights display, with lights that flash in rhythm to music broadcast over an FM transmitter. 83 Franklin St, Stoneham, MA. more		?	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Edaville Railroad's Christmas Festival of Lights	Carver, MA
The biggest and best "holiday lights" display in New England. It's quite non-religious, with Santa letting kids sit on his lap but also plenty of generic fare like Frosty the Snowman and a tip of the hat to Hannukah. I don't think you'll see Jesus at all. Come at night and take a 20-minute train ride, or ride the ferris wheel our carousel. They have 7 million lights, and fireworks every Friday night in December. See website for coupons. Daily. I've been and it's a ton of fun even for adults who are kids at heart and like people-watching. Rt 3S to exit 6, Rt 44W for 8 miles to Rt 58 for 8 miles. Pine Street, Carver, MA.877-EDAVILLE. more		A+	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Bridgewater Festival Of Lights	Bridgewater, MA
Free. 200,000 lights with a walk-through village. Santa and free coffee and hot chocolate by an outdoor fireplace. At the private home of Dale and Cindy Higgins. 5-9pm M-F, 5-10pm SS. 55 Alexander Drive, Bridgewater, MA.508-279-2894. more		?	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
La Salette Shrine Festival of Lights	Attleboro, MA
Daily, 5-9pm. Very religious, it's a shrine. Over 300,000 lights covering 10 acres. Trolley rides Fri-Sun. 947 Park Street, Attleboro, MA.508-222-5410. more		B+	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Holiday Lights at Buttonwood Zoo	New Bedford, MA
6-9pm. And many daytime visits by Santa, see Web site. 425 Hawthorn Street, New Bedford, MA.(508) 991-6178. more		?	X					X	X	X
Springfield's Bright Night at Forest Park	Springfield, MA
5-9pm, but to 11pm Fri, Sat. 550,000 lights. Surprisingly good though -- the 2nd to Edaville. Check out Springfield Museums or zoo (open during school holidays in Dec) at same time. Daily. And check out the holiday lights at Dunn & Phillips, 185 Belmont Ave., Springfield. Rt 83, Springfield, MA.413-733-3800. more		A	X			X	X	X	X	X
White Mountain Holiday Magic Light Park	Campton, NH
This one features outdoor lights you can drive through in your car, or on their horse-drawn sleigh, and a non-commercial holiday gift center, too. Fri, Sat, Sun, 4:30-8:30pm. Exit 28 off I-93. Branch Brook Campground, Route 49, Campton, NH.(603) 726-7001. more		A-	X					X	X	X
Lighted Christmas Rides @ Charmingfare Farm	Candia, NH
They have a 30 minute horse drawn night ride. Live reindeer. Petting zoo. Route 27, Candia, NH.603-483-5623. more		?	X					X	X	X
La Salette Shrine & Center	Enfield, NH
Another very religious site has 45,000 evening lights spread across 30 acres. 603-632-7087. more		B	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Candlelight Stroll @ Strawbery Banke	Portsmouth, NH
Strawbery Banke is a re-enactment museum where you'll meet actors dress as people from history. This event features the 18th century and has live music, a bonfire, participatory caroling, demonstrations on ancient musical instruments and the Masons, hundreds of candles, a gingerbread house contest, and more. Sounds really great! 4-9pm. Marcy Street, Portsmouth, NH.603-422-7514. more		A+	X						X	X

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 7, 2008 12:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Johnny's List of Quirky Boston Events: 12/07/08

Today's blog goes with a special shout out to David Day at The Weekly Dig. :)

-Johnny

The Week in Weird
Kendall Square Holiday on Ice	Dec 13	Boston Metro
The event of the week has to be the Kendall Square Holiday on Ice. It's opening night for the ice rink in Cambridge, with professional skating performances at 2pm and 5pm, free food, and probably free admission to skate. 300 Athenaeum Street, Cambridge, MA.617 492-0941. more
Boston Tea Party, Old South Meeting House	Dec 14	Boston Metro
Also weird but additionally historic! Re-enactors will lead you through an old towne meeting and then sort of roleplay of actually dumping the tea (in which you stay warm indoors). 5:30-7:30pm. It's only $6. Old South Meeting House, 310 Washington Street, Boston, MA.617-482-6439. more
Victorian Dinner & Open House @ Emily Dickinson Museum	Dec 11 - Dec 13	Western Mass
This one's a birthday party, and you're invited! The guest of honor is Emily Dickinson's, who was born in December. They start with a Victorian fundraising dinner set in the 19th century, at $75 a plate, and then a free open house Saturday 1-4pm at which the first 178 visitors will receive a rose. 280 Main Street, Amherst, MA.413-542-8161. more
Model Train Weekend @ National Heritage Museum	Dec 13 - Dec 14	Metro West
There are plenty of secular non-holiday events this week, and thank goodness. This one is the annual display by the National Railroad Association, which is only $7, but the museum itself is free and is always free, and features revolutionary war exhibits and other New England history. Sat 10-5, Sun 12-5. 33 Marrett Road, Concord, MA.781-861-6559. more
Night at the Museum	Dec 12	Boston Metro
In what is essentially a sales event for their gift shop, the Harvard Natural History Museum is offering free admission on Dec 12. Sweet! 5-8pm. Harvard Natural History Museum, Cambridge, MA.617-495-3045. more
Geminids Meteor Shower	Dec 13	Metro West
The Geminids are one of only a few annual meteor showers. You can see this one by just stepping outdoors the entire night of Sat-Sun Dec 13-14, with a maximum around 6pm EST Saturday. Go somewhere the city lights and street lamps don't burn out the view, like a forest pond or meadow. Go somewhere without city lights, Everywhere. more more
Stars and Meteors at the Holidays @ Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary	Dec 13	Metro West
For example, this state park has a yearly program to come and see the meteors with an astronomer. Pre-register to attend. 280 Eliot St, Natick, MA.508-655-2296. more
Indiana Jones Scavenger Hunt	Dec 13	Boston Metro
2pm. No information is available on this event -- I called. But it's bound to be fun, and it goes along with a screening of the Indy films at the Brattle Theatre. Brattle Theatre, Cambridge, MA. more
Wreckage: The Contest Show	Dec 14	Boston Metro
This event is sort of a "bad poetry contest", but it's for talent instead. It's comedic. It's wacky. And sounds really fun. Milky Way, 403 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, MA.617-524-3740. more
Midnight Seduction	Dec 13	Boston Metro
It's strange. It's wonderful. It's a party. It's only for people who are curious about sensuality. Cambridge, MA. more
Candy Land Tournament	Dec 13	Boston Metro
This event may go into the 'so what' category, but apparently it's a CandyLand tournament! It's based on the board game that any 2 year old can play because it involves no skill whatsoever. And meant to get you to come shop at Faneuil Hall, of course. Faneuil Hall, Boston, MA. more
Santa Speedo Run	Dec 13	Boston Metro
1pm. This is a charity event where men race naked except for sneakers, speedos and santa beards & caps. Registration at 12pm. And there's a post-run celebration. They run east on Boylston and then west on Newbury St. Starts & Ends at Lir, 903 Boylston Street, Boston, MA.617-351-7000. more
Ho Ho Holidays
Jingle Bell Run	Dec 14	Boston Metro
Somehow this event in Somerville just can't compete with that, especially as their website gives zero details for gawkers who never wanted to sign up but would like to see it. Davis Square, Somerville, MA. more more
Carol Singing & Poetry @ Mt. Auburn Cemetery	Dec 13	Boston Metro
This week's fairly laid back about Christmas, with fewer merchant events and more holiday substance. For example, participatory caroling! This one's at Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge. 2-3:30pm. Was free last year. This year: $10. Huh. 580 Mount Auburn Street, Cambridge, MA.617-547-7105. more
Holiday caroling with Arlington Street Church	Dec 14	Boston Metro
This one's at the Unitarian church, so it shouldn't be too heavy with spirituality. I believe this one's participatory too, but haven't been able to confirm it yet. 1-2:30pm. Church, 351 Boylston Street, Boston, MA. more
Community Holiday Sing Along	Dec 12	Northern Mass
If you live upstate closer to the North Pole, sing along with Amesbury and perhaps Santa will hear you. 6pm. Join along in caroling. In front of the Amesbury Public Library at the Gazebo, Amesbury, MA.978-388-3178. more
Edgartown Caroling Stroll & Holiday Parade	Dec 11 - Dec 13	Marthas Vinyard
This one is the clear favorite, but the catch is, you have to be on Martha's Vinyard to participate. They'll have tons of events all throughout the day, with a parade, gingerbread & wreath workshops, arts & crafts show, Santa, music, tree lighting, and contests for chowder and cookies. So this is what they do off the tourist season! Edgartown, Martha's Vinyard, MA. more
Christmas by Candlelight @ OSV	Dec 12 - Dec 21	Worcester
Also a favorite, but closer, is Christmas at Old Sturbridge Village. You can also join in the caroling here, and learn about the history of Xmas at this 19th century re-enactment village. They'll have both modern Santa and old-timey Father Christmas. 5-9pm. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge, MA.508 347-3362. more
Victorian Holiday Open House	Dec 13	Newport Area
Another museum is in Fall River, and -- eerily -- is based on a gruesome 19th century murder, just one of the many historical things about the region. They'll have music, food, tea room, guides but not necessarily in costume. Part of the "Victorian Christmas" open house. I wasn't able to confirm any more details on this event, part of a celebration which goes through December 30. 451 Rock Street, Fall River, MA.(508) 679-1071. more
Christmas by Candlelight @ Winslow Farm	Dec 13	Southern Mass
In Norton, the Winslow Farm, which is a petting zoo and open to the public, is having their own Xmas event with a warm fire, night tours, and caroling, which I assume is participatory. 6-8pm. 37 Eddy Street, Norton, MA.508-285-6451. more
Breakfast with Santa at Battleship Cove & Carousel	Dec 14	Southern Mass
8am-12pm. This one seems to be oriented towards kids, but Battleship Cove features a real WWII battleship turned into a museum, and there's a carousel there, in addition to the kids crafts & facepainting. And Santa. And breakfast! Reserve a meal ticket in advance. Battleship Cove, Fall River, MA.508-678-1100. more
Beacon Hill Holiday Stroll	Dec 11	Boston Metro
We got pretty far down the list before hitting merchant events, didn't we! Awesome. Here are a few shoppy oppy's that add some creativity too. This one is refreshments and "mingling" along Charles and Cambridge Streets in Boston. It's free and I bet you a dollar that all the stores will be open. Charles Street, Boston, MA.617-720-7888. more
Shop Inman By Moonlight	Dec 11	Boston Metro
This one's even better -- I've been there and recommend it highly. They'll have hot cider, wandering carolers, fortune teller, and soaks in the hot tub (bring a bathing suit) at Inman Oasis. Santa will be there, too. 6pm-midnight. Features a walking tour. Inman Square, Cambridge, MA. more
Holly Fair at Cambridge Center for Adult Education	Dec 13 - Dec 14	Boston Metro
Throwing marketing caution to the wind, this arts fair admits openly that you can find white elephants at their crafts market. 42 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA.617-547-6789. more
Recurring Events
Mrs. Gore's Holiday Tea & Tours	Dec 5 - Dec 13	Metro West
Holiday events, ok let's get real, Christmas events are dominating the events calendar now. As usual I list things from most interesting to least. To start, this is a re-enactment of "tea time" from the Victorian era at this old historical home of former Massachusetts Governor Gore. Gore Place, 52 Gore Street, Waltham, MA.(781) 894-2798. more
Victorian Christmas Feast @ Astors' Beechwood Mansion	Dec 6 - Dec 20	Rhode Island
Also re-enacted is this 19th century holiday feast at one of Newport's mansions. Fridays @ 7pm. Reserve in advance. Astors' Beechwood Mansion, 580 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI. more
Holiday Murder Mystery at the Astors' Beechwood Mansion	Nov 7 - Dec 19	Rhode Island
And if those events are sold out, try the murder mystery dinner in Newport, RI at one of the mansions. The Astor's Beechwood Mansion is the only Newport destination that re-enacts the Victorian era with live actors. I've always wanted to check this out! It's every Friday @ 7pm through Dec 19. Reserve in advance. Astors' Beechwood Mansion, 580 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI. more
Shaker Supper @ Hancock Shaker Village	Nov 8 - Dec 27	Western Mass
A similar experience is available at Hancock Shaker Village, but it's a smaller attraction that I would only recommend if you feel you've "done" Plimoth Plantation. You get a tour by re-enactors, an authentic dinner, and a cappella Shaker music from the 1830s. Nov 8, 29, and Dec 27. 34 Lebanon Mountain Rd., Hancock, MA. more
Petting Zoo in front of Seasons Four Furniture Store	Nov 21 - Dec 28	Metro West
I can't tell you how tired I am of seeing merchant events with a stark theme. This one's different, with a petting zoo, Santa, elmo, face painting, singers, balloon animals, etc. 1265 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA.(781)861-1200. more
Wenham Museum's Gingerbread Contest	Nov 28 - Dec 14	North Shore
This one's the one to see though! It's a gingerbread house contest, with all kinds of surprisingly large and intricate displays, include one with model trains. I've been to the Wenham Museum and it's one of these New England-y places in the middle of nowhere with a world class attitude and really worth a visit. 132 Main Street, Wenham, MA. more
Cultural Survival Bazaar	Nov 28 - Dec 14	Boston Metro
This one I've actually been to, and they really do have inexpensive arts and crafts from all over the world. But you won't meet any artists, just merchants. Nov 24-25, 10am-6pm, Cambridge College, 1000 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA. Dec 1-2, 10am-6pm, Episcopal Divinity School, 5 Phillips Place, Cambridge, MA. Dec 8-9, 11am-7pm, Hynes Convention Center, Boston. Various Metro Locations, Boston, MA. more more
Faneuil Hall Marketplace Bellringers	Nov 29 - Dec 20	Boston Metro
Boston's tourist mecca is Fanueil Hall, a place as a resident I would normally avoid avoid avoid. However, they do have fun events there. One is this handbell performance. Saturdays, Nov 29-Dec 20. 12pm & 2pm outside the West End between Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. Bad weather: in Quincy Market, top floor. Faneuil Hall, Boston, MA.617-523-1300. more
Harvard Square Holiday Crafts Fair	Nov 29 - Dec 23	Boston Metro
I'm entirely skipping the Harvard Square Merchant event "Sparklefest", because there's no real event, it turns out, just a calendar of the usual stuff in Harvard. However, here's one that looks promising: a church selling goods. I seem to recall that made Jesus angry. Whatever, it's Christmas! Sat 10-7, Sun 12-6, M-F 12-7:30. Daily Dec 18-23. Church at corner of Church St & Mass Ave, Cambridge, MA. more
Performance
Between Jobs	Nov 7 - Dec 12	Boston Metro
My favorite improv comedy theatre is hosting a series of nights commenting on unemployment, following in a long tradition of satire going back to Charlie Chaplin's Modern Times. Improv Boston, Cambridge, MA. more
The Nutcracker	Nov 28 - Dec 28	Boston Metro
And... It's The Nutcracker. If you're ever going to check out ballet (I haven't), this would probably be it. Opera House, Boston, MA. more
Jukebox Heroes Live	Dec 13 - Dec 14	Boston Metro
As if an Elvis impersonator wasn't enough, this show adds impersonators of The Beatles, Jerry Lee Lewis, and others! Regent Theatre, Arlington, MA. more

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 7, 2008 12:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Holiday Lights & Christmas Lights in Boston, Massachusetts, and beyond

Holiday Lights		grade	T Dec 2	W Dec 3	R Dec 4	F Dec 5	S Dec 6	S Dec 7	M Dec 8	T Dec 9
Millis Wonderland	Millis, MA
Nightly 6-10pm. Slowest nights are Tuesday-Thursday. 60 Causeway Street, Millis, MA. more		?	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Stone Zoo's Zoolights	Stoneham, MA
Daily 5-9pm. 250,000 lights and lots of animals. But the animals are mainly sleeping in their holes and the rest are poorly lit. Only OK. Santa is available. 149 Pond Street, Stoneham, MA.617-989-2000. more		B-	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Edaville Railroad's Christmas Festival of Lights	Carver, MA
The biggest and best "holiday lights" display in New England. It's quite non-religious, with Santa letting kids sit on his lap but also plenty of generic fare like Frosty the Snowman and a tip of the hat to Hannukah. I don't think you'll see Jesus at all. Come at night and take a 20-minute train ride, or ride the ferris wheel our carousel. They have 7 million lights, and fireworks every Friday night in December. See website for coupons. Daily. I've been and it's a ton of fun even for adults who are kids at heart and like people-watching. Rt 3S to exit 6, Rt 44W for 8 miles to Rt 58 for 8 miles. Pine Street, Carver, MA.877-EDAVILLE. more		A+	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
La Salette Shrine Festival of Lights	Attleboro, MA
Daily, 5-9pm. Very religious, it's a shrine. Over 300,000 lights covering 10 acres. Trolley rides Fri-Sun. 947 Park Street, Attleboro, MA.508-222-5410. more		B+	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Holiday Lights at Buttonwood Zoo	New Bedford, MA
6-9pm. And many daytime visits by Santa, see Web site. 425 Hawthorn Street, New Bedford, MA.(508) 991-6178. more		?					X	X
Springfield's Bright Night at Forest Park	Springfield, MA
5-9pm, but to 11pm Fri, Sat. 550,000 lights. Surprisingly good though -- the 2nd to Edaville. Check out Springfield Museums or zoo (open during school holidays in Dec) at same time. Daily. And check out the holiday lights at Dunn & Phillips, 185 Belmont Ave., Springfield. Rt 83, Springfield, MA.413-733-3800. more		A		X	X	X	X	X
White Mountain Holiday Magic Light Park	Campton, NH
This one features outdoor lights you can drive through in your car, or on their horse-drawn sleigh, and a non-commercial holiday gift center, too. Fri, Sat, Sun, 4:30-8:30pm. Exit 28 off I-93. Branch Brook Campground, Route 49, Campton, NH.(603) 726-7001. more		A-				X	X	X
Lighted Christmas Rides @ Charmingfare Farm	Candia, NH
They have a 30 minute horse drawn night ride. Live reindeer. Petting zoo. Route 27, Candia, NH.603-483-5623. more		?				X	X	X
La Salette Shrine & Center	Enfield, NH
Another very religious site has 45,000 evening lights spread across 30 acres. 603-632-7087. more		B-	X	X	X	X	X	X	X	X
Candlelight Stroll @ Strawbery Banke	Portsmouth, NH
Strawbery Banke is a re-enactment museum where you'll meet actors dress as people from history. This event features the 18th century and has live music, caroling, demonstrations on ancient musical instruments and the Masons, hundreds of candles, a gingerbread house contest, and more. Sounds really great! 4-9pm. Marcy Street, Portsmouth, NH.603-422-7514. more		A+					X	X

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 2, 2008 12:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.

Boston Events Insider: Johnny's List of Quirky Boston Events: 12/01/08

I have Christmas on the brain now. I've read about Santa's arriving by parachute, dog sled, fire truck, horse-drawn sleigh, and jumping off a rooftop. Obviously these events are geared around kids and merchants, but if you try, you can find some good ones. Please email me anything non-commercial that I missed!

-Johnny

The Week in Weird
Skating Rink Opening at Charles Hotel	Dec 7	Boston Metro
It's ice skating time! Following Frog Pond, now ice skating rinks are opening at the Charles Hotel and in Kendall Square, Cambridge. Both feature opening celebrations. Free skating, 12-8pm. Performance by skating pros. Santa visits. Cambridge, MA. more
Holiday on Ice @ Kendall Square Ice Rink	Dec 5	Boston Metro
The Kendall Square rink is doing a free night of professional performers, also, which may be opening night Dec 5, 12-9pm, but it may be at some other time. I could not reach them. Check the website. Cambridge, MA.617 492-0941. more
Fort Point Open Studios (Holidays)	Dec 5 - Dec 7	Boston Metro
What is possibly Boston's best artist community has their annual open studios this weekend. Walk around South Boston and meet the actual artists in their private homes and work studios. Boston, MA. more
Hyde Park Open Studios	Dec 6 - Dec 7	Boston Metro
Even further south, Hyde Park is also having an open studios event. 12-5pm. 1476 River Street, Boston, MA. more
Open House at Spellman Museum of Stamps & Postal History	Dec 6	Boston Metro
Also free is this event at a museum dedicated to the Post Office. Stamp 'games, puzzles, and hunts'. 12pm to 4pm. Regis College, 235 Wellesley Street, Weston, MA.781.768.8367. more
Looney Plunge @ Lake Sunapee	Dec 6	New Hampshire
Are you insane? Perhaps going up to New Hampshire for some skiing and a dip in the lake would suit you. Lake Sunapee at the Harbor, New London, NH. more
The Great Marlborough Train Show	Dec 6 - Dec 7	Metro West
Not free, but costing only $7, is the largest model train show in New England. Santa will be there as will over 200 dealers. Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4. Best Western, 181 Boston Post Rd (Rt 20), Marlborough, MA.781-862-0388. more
Nikkomo	Dec 6	Rhode Island
Nikkomo is the closest thing in Native American culture to the celebration of Christmas. Come see it for yourself and bring a small gift. They'll have music, ethnic gifts for sale, and traditional foods. 1-4pm. Tomaquag Museum, 390 Summit Rd, Exeter, RI.401-539-7213. more
Day of the Ninja	Dec 5	Boston Metro
Competing with Talk Like a Pirate Day is the "Day of the Ninja" on December 5th. Dress and talk tough, ninja style. Evening class at 6, 6:45, 7:30pm. I do get a sense that this is their regular class and they aren't doing anything special for the day. But if you want some tips on how to be a real ninja, this beginner's class looks like fun. Boston Martial Arts Center, 161 Harvard Avenue, Suite 4E, Boston, MA.617-789-5524. more more
Lecture: "Human Origins	Dec 6	Boston Metro
This is a one-night lecture about human origins and why we walk on two legs and such. You'll get to handle actual stone tools and bones. Register in advance. 9:30am-12pm. Harvard Natural History Museum, Cambridge, MA.617-495-3045. more
Ho Ho Holidays
Mrs. Gore's Holiday Tea & Tours	Dec 5 - Dec 13	Metro West
Holiday events, ok let's get real, Christmas events are dominating the events calendar now. As usual I list things from most interesting to least. To start, this is a re-enactment of "tea time" from the Victorian era at this old historical home of former Massachusetts Governor Gore. Gore Place, 52 Gore Street, Waltham, MA.(781) 894-2798. more
Victorian Christmas Feast @ Astors' Beechwood Mansion	Dec 6 - Dec 20	Rhode Island
Also re-enacted is this 19th century holiday feast at one of Newport's mansions. Fridays @ 7pm. Reserve in advance. Astors' Beechwood Mansion, 580 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI. more
Holidays at Heritage Museum	Dec 6 - Dec 7	Cape Cod
This one is also not to be missed. The Heritage Museum & Gardens have an expansive grounds with lighted paths for walking, with an auto museum, an arts museum, an outdoor maze, and a lot more. This event is free. Take photos with Santa in an old Model T car. Crafts and live music, too. 67 Grove Street, Sandwich, MA.508-888-3300. more
Sutton Chain of Lights	Dec 6	Worcester
Not closest to Boston, but possibly the best, are some big events in small towns. Here they have the usual caroling and tree lighting with Santa at 5:30pm. But it's proceeded by events all around town with a trolley tour. And followed by a roast beef dinner! Sutton, MA. more
Amesbury Santa Parade & Tree Lighting	Dec 6	Northern Mass
And another parade. (Parades beat plain tree lightings!) 3:30pm. Amesbury, MA. more
Concord Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting	Dec 7	Metro West
This one in Concord is going up top also, since it seems to also be fairly non-commercial. 12pm-5pm open house tour of 6 decorated historic houses, then parade at 5:30pm and tree lighting at 6pm. Santa will arrive by fire engine and they'll have carolers and hot chocolate. The parade starts at Dunkin Donuts on Sudbury Road and ends at town common. Visitors Center, 58 Main St., Concord, MA.978-369-3120. more
Plymouth, NH Hometown Holiday Parade	Dec 6	New Hampshire
Even better than a parade -- fireworks! They'll have 36 parade units throwing candy and parading down Green Street, around the rotary, and to South Main Street. Santa will arrive on a fire truck, and afterwards they'll have soups and Santa events at the Senior Center. Parade at 5pm, then fireworks at 5:45pm on the Holderness-Plymouth bridge. Plymouth, NH.603-536-2890. more
Annual Conway, NH Village Festival, Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony	Dec 6	New Hampshire
Also a parade and Santa, but with ice skating and professional ice skate performances. Plus free admission to the movie "Wall-E". Conway, NH. more
Festival of Trees or Portsmouth Illuminated Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting	Dec 6	New Hampshire
While you're visiting the Strawbery Banke event, see this parade in Portsmouth, NH. 6pm. Urban Forestry Center, 45 Elwyn Road, Portsmouth, NH.603-610-5510. more
Pembroke Tree Lighting	Dec 7	South Shore
Here's a creative one -- tethered balloon rides and hay rides are part of this tree lighting event! Santa arrives by fire engine. Must use Internet Explorer to view calendar. Pembroke, MA. more
Copley Square Tree Lighting	Dec 3	Boston Metro
OK, now we're ready to return to metro Boston. No parade here. With a flick of the switch, Boston is lighting a tree. But they'll have music and dance performances in Copley Square. Santa will be there, and free refreshments. 5-6pm. Copley Square, Boston, MA. more
Boston's Official Tree Lighting	Dec 4	Boston Metro
And in Boston Common they'll have Santa and "performers from Nova Scotia". I guess being more specific was impossible for their PR talent. And the ice skating rink will be open. 6-8pm. Boston Common, Boston, MA. more
Macy's Enchanted Trolley Tour & Tree Lightings	Dec 5 - Dec 7	Boston Metro
Do you not live near Copley Square or Boston Common? The mayor and Santa and "Macy's Store Characters" will be driving around town in a trolley doing little 30 minute tree lightings & kids stuff, in 15 different Boston areas. Stand outside like you're waiting for the bus. A bus full of elves that you can't step onto. Various, Boston, MA. more
City of Worcester's Festival of Lights	Dec 5	Worcester
5-8pm. This one's less commercial seeming because they'll have horse drawn hayrides, as well as the ubiquitous Santa, music, and tree lighting. And it takes place in the town common, not a merchant district. Worcester City Hall Common, Front St, Worcester, MA. more
Brookline First Light Festival	Dec 4	Boston Metro
This merchant event is taking place all over the city in various venues, with music and dance and arts & crafts workshops. Oh, and shopping. 5-8pm. Various Locations, Brookline, MA. more
Lexington Holiday Festival Night	Dec 5	Metro West
So basically, this is also a merchant event where stores stay open late. But Santa's coming around 6:30 for the tree lighting! 4-9pm. Lexington, MA. more
Haverhill Annual Christmas Stroll	Dec 7	Northern Mass
This one's also a straightforward merchant event, with Santa. Free "train rides" whatever that means? Santa arrives by horse-drawn sleigh. Haverhill, MA. more
Annual Christmas Stroll Weekend, Nantucket	Dec 5 - Dec 7	Southern Mass
If you happen to be on Nantucket Island, this one's worth a shot. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive to the island via Coast Guard and ride up Main Street in a horse-drawn carriage. Carolers in Victorian costumes, bell ringers and other musicians. Nantucket Island.508-228-1700. more
USS Constitution Tree Decorating & Lighting	Dec 5 - Dec 7	Boston Metro
The USS Constitution is the oldest active duty ship in the nation, from the 19th century, and they will have a tree lighting ceremony. I am sorry to say that I attended their July celebration and the military mindset of entertainment is essentially grim faces and schoolkids playing music badly. So... probably skip this one. They will fire the ship cannons though. Bldg 5 Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, MA. more
Falmouth Holidays-By-The-Sea	Dec 5 - Dec 7	Cape Cod
This one's original! "Seafaring Santa" will arrive by boat! And they'll have a pancake breakfast, participatory carol singing and a parade. Unfortunately these events are all on different days. Main Street, Falmouth, MA.508-548-8500. more
Grafton Celebrates the Holidays	Dec 7	Metro West
12-4pm, with tree lighting at 4:30pm. Merchant event with open houses at various businesses. Then Santa comes, ice sculptures, petting zoo, and tree lighting. There's no info on their website but I called in about this. Grafton, MA.(508) 839-5335 x156. more
Also Fun
MassArt Annual Holiday Sale	Dec 1 - Dec 6	Boston Metro
Student art sales are a great way to find a creative holiday bargain. This one's at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design. 10am-7pm. Tower Building Lobby, 621 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA.617-879-7710. more
Weekly Dig's Annual Holiday Shindig	Dec 2	Boston Metro
TONIGHT! It's a fundraising. It's a party. It's the poorly advertised holiday party for Boston's free weekly events newspaper. 7pm. Hard Rock Cafe, 24 Clinton St., Boston, MA. more
New England International Auto Show	Dec 3 - Dec 7	Boston Metro
Most auto events in New England focus on the past, but if you want to see the cars of the future, here's where to go. Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, Boston, MA, Boston, MA. more
Christmas in Salem House Tour	Dec 5 - Dec 7	North Shore
Declaring that Salem has more than just Halloween, these history buffs will give you tours of local historic homes, all dressed up for the holidays. Hamilton Hall, 9 Chestnut Street, Salem, MA. more
Hot Chocolate Run in Northampton	Dec 6	Western Mass
There are numerous charity walks and runs, but this one caught my attention because they're serving 2,500 cups of hot chocolate. It's a 2 mile walk and a 5 mile run. Downtown Northampton, 38 Gothic Street, Northampton, MA. more
Union Square Winter Craft Market	Dec 6	Boston Metro
Taking a chance on the weather, here's an outdoor market with some singing. 11am-4pm. Union Square, Somerville, MA. more
Bazaar Bizarre	Dec 7	Boston Metro
This one's another pure merchant event. But an off-beat arts & crafts one. Boston Center for the Arts, Boston, MA. more
Boston Music Awards	Dec 7	Boston Metro
This is the annual awards ceremony for best local and national music acts. Orpheum Theatre, One Hamilton Place, Boston, MA.617-931-2000. more
Recurring Events
Wenham Museum's Gingerbread Contest	Nov 28 - Dec 14	North Shore
This one's the one to see though! It's a gingerbread house contest, with all kinds of surprisingly large and intricate displays, include one with model trains. I've been to the Wenham Museum and it's one of these New England-y places in the middle of nowhere with a world class attitude and really worth a visit. 132 Main Street, Wenham, MA. more
Cultural Survival Bazaar	Nov 28 - Dec 14	Boston Metro
This one I've actually been to, and they really do have inexpensive arts and crafts from all over the world. But you won't meet any artists, just merchants. Nov 24-25, 10am-6pm, Cambridge College, 1000 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA. Dec 1-2, 10am-6pm, Episcopal Divinity School, 5 Phillips Place, Cambridge, MA. Dec 8-9, 11am-7pm, Hynes Convention Center, Boston. Various Metro Locations, Boston, MA. more more
Faneuil Hall Marketplace Bellringers	Nov 29 - Dec 20	Boston Metro
Boston's tourist mecca is Fanueil Hall, a place as a resident I would normally avoid avoid avoid. However, they do have fun events there. One is this handbell performance. Saturdays, Nov 29-Dec 20. 12pm & 2pm outside the West End between Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. Bad weather: in Quincy Market, top floor. Faneuil Hall, Boston, MA.617-523-1300. more
Shaker Supper @ Hancock Shaker Village	Nov 8 - Dec 27	Western Mass
A similar experience is available at Hancock Shaker Village, but it's a smaller attraction that I would only recommend if you feel you've "done" Plimoth Plantation. You get a tour by re-enactors, an authentic dinner, and a cappella Shaker music from the 1830s. Nov 8, 29, and Dec 27. 34 Lebanon Mountain Rd., Hancock, MA. more
Petting Zoo in front of Seasons Four Furniture Store	Nov 21 - Dec 28	Metro West
I can't tell you how tired I am of seeing merchant events with a stark theme. This one's different, with a petting zoo, Santa, elmo, face painting, singers, balloon animals, etc. 1265 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA.(781)861-1200. more
Harvard Square Holiday Crafts Fair	Nov 29 - Dec 23	Boston Metro
I'm entirely skipping the Harvard Square Merchant event "Sparklefest", because there's no real event, it turns out, just a calendar of the usual stuff in Harvard. However, here's one that looks promising: a church selling goods. I seem to recall that made Jesus angry. Whatever, it's Christmas! Sat 10-7, Sun 12-6, M-F 12-7:30. Daily Dec 18-23. Church at corner of Church St & Mass Ave, Cambridge, MA. more
Holiday Murder Mystery at the Astors' Beechwood Mansion	Nov 7 - Dec 19	Rhode Island
And if those events are sold out, try the murder mystery dinner in Newport, RI at one of the mansions. The Astor's Beechwood Mansion is the only Newport destination that re-enacts the Victorian era with live actors. I've always wanted to check this out! It's every Friday @ 7pm through Dec 19. Reserve in advance. Astors' Beechwood Mansion, 580 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, RI. more
Performance
Kuumba Singers of Harvard College	Dec 5 - Dec 6	Boston Metro
The performance of the week is this concert by Harvard's Kuumba Singers. While they celebrate african american music, they are open to everyone and it's easily the most "diverse" way of seeing the black church concept of standing up and swaying and clapping during the music. Memorial Church, Harvard Yard, Cambridge, MA. more
The Merchant of Venice	Nov 6 - Dec 7	Boston Metro
Yet more Shakespeare. One you probably haven't seen. Midway Studios, Fort Point Channel, Boston, MA. more
Rock 'n' Roll	Nov 7 - Dec 7	Boston Metro
Tom Stoppard is sort of a modern Shakespeare, having written the script for the movie "Shakespeare in Love" and the play "Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead". Now here's his Broadway hit about Eastern Europe, rock music, and history. BU Theatre, 264 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA. more
Between Jobs	Nov 7 - Dec 12	Boston Metro
My favorite improv comedy theatre is hosting a series of nights commenting on unemployment, following in a long tradition of satire going back to Charlie Chaplin's Modern Times. Improv Boston, Cambridge, MA. more
The Nutcracker	Nov 28 - Dec 28	Boston Metro
And... It's The Nutcracker. If you're ever going to check out ballet (I haven't), this would probably be it. Opera House, Boston, MA. more

By Johnny Monsarrat on December 1, 2008 12:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) Content by Jon Monsarrat.