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-Johnny

The Week in Weird
Free movie preview tix to Machete & The Tillman Story		Wed 9/1	Boston Metro
Did you ever see Grindhouse, the Quentin Tarantino film? It featured a trailer for a parody called Machete, which was so popular that they actually made the movie. I have free preview tickets. The only catch is, it's at 10am in the morning. Also I've got tickets for The Tillman Story, Wed at 7pm. AMC Boston Common Theatre, Boston, MA. more
Tomb opens new attraction -- free tickets!		Wed 9/1	Southeast Mass
The largest amusement park in Boston proper has just one "ride" -- it's "Tomb", an ancient Egyptian pyramid that you actually walk through. The Pharaoah traps you inside and you solve puzzles and explore to escape. Well, the team at 5 WITS has now opened "Espionage", a walk-through spy game in Foxborough. Meanwhile -- big surprise!! -- they are CLOSING the Boston location on September 7, which to me sounds crazy. I still have 17 tickets to Tomb, so email me to win some and go! Patriot Place, Foxboro, MA. more
King Richard's Faire preview event		Thu 9/2	Boston Metro
Bigger and better than Tomb, King Richard's Faire is the big Renaissance Faire in Massachusetts and to attract customers they are doing a free preview! They'll have baby tigers, jousters on horseback and performances by the royal court set up all along the river. 11am-1pm. Hatch Shell on the Esplanade, Boston, MA. more
Anuna Hill Days (Stargazing Weekend)		Fri 9/3 - Mon 9/6	Boston Metro
I've always wanted to see this one! It's a weekend festival for serious astronomy buffs, but everyone is invited. You can camp or just visit, with model rockets and nature walks in the day and serious stargazing at night. Arunah Hill, Cummington, MA. more
Back to School Silent Rave		Sat 9/4	Boston Metro
Or spend the night dancing to no music! Bring an iPod with music to dance to. Or just dance to the music in your head! 7-10pm. Copley Square, Boston, MA. more
Adult Spelling Bee (and I do mean X-rated)		Sat 9/4	Boston Metro
How weird is this? A spelling bee with naughty words. Basement of student center. 9pm. BU Central, 775 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA. more
Marlborough's 350th Anniversary		Sat 9/4 - Mon 9/6	Metro West
Movie night 9/3 "Up", Ball 9/4, and scavenger hunt, opening of 50 year time capsule, and fireworks 9/5! Then a parade 9/6! Marlborough, MA. more
World War II Day at Battleship Cove		Sat 9/4 - Sun 9/5	Southeast Mass
Re-enactments in New England usually focus on the 1700s. Here's one focused on World War II, and it takes place at the largest naval museum in the world, right here in Fall River. Battleship Cove, Fall River, MA. more
Seakonke Wampanoag Tride Annual Pow-wow		Sat 9/4 - Sun 9/5	Southeast Mass
This small native american festival takes place in my hometown and I've been. It's at the corner of Rt 44 & Bay State Road, call 401-723-1563. They have a ring of vendors and ethnic music and dance, including participatory. It's a wonderful chance to learn. Redway Plains, Bay State Road at Winthrop Street, Rehoboth, MA.401-723-1563. more
Boston Tattoo Convention		Fri 9/3 - Mon 9/6	Boston Metro
If you're into tattoos, don't miss this opportunity to gawk and be gawked at. Just don't get a tattoo you won't still be proud of when you're 80! They'll have a burlesque show and tattoo contests. Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont St, Boston, MA. more
Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks		Sat 9/4	North Shore
While you're in the area, get a picnic lunch & watch the ships go by! The best view is on the left side of the harbor (as you face the water). Gloucester Harbor, Gloucester, MA. more
Gloucester Schooner Festival		Fri 9/3 - Mon 9/6	North Shore
No doubt this ship & waterfront festival are related to the boat parade! Gloucester, MA. more
Stacked Kite Mega-Fly		Mon 9/6	North Shore
The experts at these kite festivals are friendly! Go and learn how to fly a stunt kite with two strings. Nahant Beach, Lynn, MA. more
Bread and Roses Festival		Mon 9/6	North Shore
This music and dance festival is more like it! It celebrates a famous labor strike in American history. Lawrence, MA. more
End of Summer Bash & Fireworks		Sun 9/5	New Hampshire
If you are up in the White Mountains for hiking and touring, stop by for the fireworks. Waterville Valley, NH.603-236-8175. more
Battle Road Trail Walk		Sat 9/4	Metro West
This is a 3.5 hour walk along the "battle trail" that was basically one long car chase, sans cars, circa 1775. 12:30pm. Free. Minute Man Visitor Center - Rt 2A, Lexington, MA.978-318-7825. more
Newport Waterfront Irish Festival		Sat 9/4 - Mon 9/6	Rhode Island
I've been to this event, and with 5 music stages, it's worth a visit, but doesn't go much beyond the typical music and vendors that many fairs feature. However, it's the largest Irish event of the year in New England. Newport Yachting Center., Newport, RI. more
Also Fun
Stone Zoo Free Fun Friday and others		Fri 9/3	North Shore
It's a zoo. It's free. Again thanks to the Highland Street Foundation! 149 Pond Street, Stoneham, MA.781-438-5100. more
Free Fun Friday at the USS Constitution Museum		Sat 9/4	Boston Metro
And a bunch of other things are free, too! See the website. The Concord Museum, EcoTarium, Buttonwood Park Zoo, and more! Charlestown Navy Yard, Boston, MA.617-426-1812. more
Festival of Saint Lucia		Fri 9/3 - Mon 9/6	Boston Metro
I believe this is a street festival, but no details are given! Cambridge, MA. more
Labor Day Fest - Newburyport		Sat 9/4 - Mon 9/6	Boston Metro
This is a small music festival by the waterfront in a very tiny New Englandy town. Sounds quiet, but nice. Newburyport, MA. more
Hopkinton State Fair		Thu 9/2 - Mon 9/6	New Hampshire
Yet another agricultural fair. I only list the big ones, but I'll list this too because Fiesta Shows will have their traveling carnival there. Hopkinton Fairgrounds, Contoocook, NH. more
Spencer Fair (Agriculture Fair)		Fri 9/3 - Mon 9/6	Worcester
It's the largest agricultural fair in central Massachusetts. Spencer, MA. more
The Shire: A Mountaintop Music & Arts Festival		Sat 9/4 - Sun 9/5	Western Mass
An "intimate" music festival, i.e. small.... Washington, MA.413-623-5535. more
Rhythm & Roots Festival		Fri 9/3 - Sun 9/5	Rhode Island
This festival seems to have a real soul, including 4 stages of music. Charlestown, RI. more
Kimball Farm Corn Maze		Sat 8/28 - Sun 11/7	Northern Mass
Another corn maze is on the North Shore. I've been to this one. It's smaller, but worth the trip and very creative with clues in the maze! Kimball Farm Corn Maze, 780 East Broadway, Haverhill, MA.978 521-3990. more
The Real Inspector Hound - Theatre		Thu 9/2 - Sun 9/5	Boston Metro
Tom Stoppard is the famous playwright who wrote the script to Shakespeare In Love, the movie. This hilarious play is a parody on murder mysteries. I've seen it and it's highly recommended! Plus I have an extra ticket for the September 5th performance. Email me! Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont St, Boston, MA.617-933-8600. more
King Richard's Faire (Ren Faire)		Sat 9/4 - Sun 10/24	South Shore
New England's largest renaissance faire. Weekends & holidays only. Plenty of Ren Faire vendors and people-watching, with 8 performance stages. Only 1/3 of the acts are worth watching, but definitely see the Aerial Angels, Paolo Garbanzo, and especially the jousting! Rt 3 S to Rt 44 W to Rt 58 S. Carver, MA.508-866-5391. more
Travel
Woodstock Fair		Fri 9/3 - Mon 9/6	Connecticut
Fiesta Shows will have their traveling carnival there. Woodstock Fairgrounds, Woodstock, CT. more
A-Maze-ing Story Slam		Sat 9/4	Connecticut
A story slam is a storytelling event where people essentially do one-person theatre shows telling a story. This one takes place on a public farm with a corn field maze! 260 Quaddick Road, Thompson, CT.860-923-3439. more
Bonfire at Nudist Resort		Sun 9/5	Connecticut
What can make a nudist camp better? A bonfire! Woodstock, CT. more
Blue Hill Fair		Thu 9/2 - Mon 9/6	Maine
This agricultural faire features ox & horse pulls, racing pigs, lumberjack show, fireworks, and sheep dog trials -- that's when they take naughty sheep and put them on trial. Blue Hill, ME. more
County Bluegrass		Thu 9/2 - Sun 9/5	Maine
Here's a festival you come camp over for. Fort Fairfield, ME. more
Champlain Valley Fair		Sat 8/28 - Mon 9/6	Vermont
The Champlain Valley Fair includes a demolition derby, a tractor pull, and a ton of famous names. Champlain Valley Exposition, 105 Pearl St., Essex Junction, VT.802-878-5545. more
Plymouth Folk and Blues Concerts		Thu 9/2 - Sun 9/5	Vermont
Yet another music festival. Plymouth, VT USA. more
Vermont State Fair		Fri 9/3 - Sun 9/12	Vermont
This festival has a carnival, live music, and lots of agricultural goodness. 175 South Main St, Rutland, VT. more
New World Festival		Sun 9/5	Vermont
Yet another music festival. Randolph, VT. more

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This is it! There are some dribs and drabs in September, but this is the last full-blooded week of outdoor theatre, movies, and music, most of which is free. See the huge list -- I track over 300 outdoor summer series, the biggest in New England by more than double -- at the very bottom of this post.

Love this blog? Subscribe to email, , or and please tell your friends!

-Johnny

The Week in Weird
Boston Carnival (Caribbean Festival)		Sat 8/28	Boston Metro
It's carnival time! There's a parade down MLK Boulevard, Roxbury, MA at 12pm, and a huge block party (j'ouvert), Blue Hill Ave and Morton Street, Mattapan, MA at 5pm. (Not 5am, right, like it's listed?). Franklin Park, Boston, MA.617-635-3911. more
Love Hangover booth in Copley Square		Sat 8/28	Boston Metro
This looks fun! Two hosts of a radio show on dating, sex, and relationships are giving free advice to anyone who wants it through a sidewalk booth. My advice would be: if you can't consistently keep from fighting, it's not true love. 1-4pm. Copley Square, in front of Trinity Episcopal Church, Boston, MA. more
Pawtucket Arts Fest & Dragonboat Races		Sun 8/15 - Sat 9/4	Rhode Island
I've told you before about the "Pawtucket Arts Festival", which is not really a festival, but a jumble of various mini-events, but finally the dragonboat races are coming 8/28. School Street Pier, School St., Pawtucket, RI.401-724-2200. more
Fandago		Sat 8/28	Boston Metro
Mexican song and dance come to Somerville! Bring an instrument and join in the "fandango". 4-8p.m. Rain date: next day. They'll have dance lessons and performances, food, art, and a film. Union Square, Somerville, MA. more
Plymouth Waterfront Festival		Sat 8/28	South Shore
I've also been to this one. At first I was ready to assume it would be small & uninteresting. But it's actually rather large with a great diversity of activities including a carnival, live music, and the Mayflower ship replica. A great excuse to visit Plimoth Plantation and stop by. 10:30am to 7pm. Plymouth, MA. more
Model Rocket Launch at Acton		Sat 8/28	Metro West
Gee, I haven't flown a model rocket since I was a kid! I'd love to see this hobby group. Check their other dates if this one doesn't work for you. 10am-4pm. Field at School Street, Acton, MA. more
Air Show at Pease Air Force Base		Sat 8/28 - Sun 8/29	New Hampshire
Of course, they're completely outclassed by this air show with air stunts up above and lots of parked aircraft to see up close on the ground. Portsmouth, NH. more
New England Boogie - Skydiving Festival		Wed 8/25 - Sun 8/29	Northern Mass
Not enough action for you? This is the largest skydiving event in New England. Up to 300 attend. I would go for viewing -- it will be too busy for jumping, and I've heard that other skyjump centers are better. 165 Nashua Road, Pepperell, MA.978 433-9222. more
Encampment of Revolutionary War Soldiers at Fort Taber		Sat 8/28 - Sun 8/29	Southeast Mass
This week's awesome historical re-enactment is an entire colonial weekend with a military camp in New Bedford. Sat 9am-9pm, Sun 9am-3pm. Battle demonstrations, live music, and colonial dance Saturday evening. And it's free! Fort Taber Park at Clark's Point, New Bedford, MA.508-994-3938. more
Free Folk Dancing with Folk Arts Center of New England		Fri 8/27	Boston Metro
There's a farmers Market near the Charles Hotel in Harvard Square from 12pm followed by participatory folk dancing from 7:30-9:30 pm (rain date 8/29). Holyoke Center, 1350 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA.781-438-4389. more
Feast of St. Anthony		Fri 8/27 - Sun 8/29	Boston Metro
I've never been to an Italian Festival, on the assumption it would be too religious. But I'm told they're really not. They have parades (led by religious icons), sing-a-longs, religious mass, live music, and two "Iron Chef" competitions. Endicott St, Boston, MA.617-523-7024. more
Marshfield Fair		Fri 8/20 - Sun 8/29	South Shore
But this one's closer. As well as the usual fair contests, they'll have a demolition derby, 2 music tents, a carnival, and a "battle of the bands". My idea: put the bands in the demolition derby cars. Now THAT's a battle! Route 3A at South River St., Marshfield, MA.781-834-6629. more
North Country Moose Festival		Fri 8/27 - Sun 8/29	New Hampshire
Looking for an excuse to head up to the hills of New Hampshire? This festival has a car show, helicopter rides, the usual street crafts vendors & food & live music, and moose tours!! I went on one once and we saw meeses!!! How exciting! Main Street, Colebrook, NH. more
Map and Compass		Sat 8/28	Boston Metro
In this event, you learn to use a map to wander the wilderness. Good if you don't have good GPS coverage. Call for location, Boston, MA.617-698-1802 x310. more
Davis Farmland's Megamaze		Sat 8/28 - Sun 8/29	Worcester
You really need to visit Davis Megamaze, even though you can't go into the petting zoo and spray park unless you have kids in tow. 145 Redstone Hill, Sterling, MA.978-422-8888. more
Kimball Farm Corn Maze		Sat 8/28 - Sun 11/7	Northern Mass
Another corn maze is on the North Shore. I've been to this one. It's smaller, but worth the trip and very creative with clues in the maze! Kimball Farm Corn Maze, 780 East Broadway, Haverhill, MA.978 521-3990. more
Also Fun
Free Fun Fridays: Museum of Science, Boston		Fri 8/27	Boston Metro
The Museum of Science is free for a day, thanks to the people at Highland Street. Museum of Science, Boston, MA. more
Essex Music Festival		Sat 8/28	North Shore
This one caught my eye. Visitors are encouraged to bring along an instrument and play, but not if you're really really bad. And they'll have participatory dancing. 12-10:30pm. Centennial Grove, Route 22, Essex, MA. more
Model-A Car Show and Family Barbeque		Sat 8/28	Metro West
This car show is 12-3pm, with live music and barbecue. Yum! Wayside Inn, 72 Wayside Inn Rd, Sudbury, MA.978-443-1776. more
Antique and Classic Boat Festival		Sat 8/28 - Sun 8/29	North Shore
Or upgrade to classic sailboats, powerboats, and hand-powered craft. Hawthorne Cove Marina, 10 White St, Salem, MA. more
"Shipwreck Dinner" at Winslow House		Sat 8/28	South Shore
What makes a lecture on history more interesting? Food! Learn about Old Ironsides all professor-like and chomp down some fancy vittles. Marshfield, MA. more
Tavern Talk		Sat 8/28	Metro West
This one looks more interesting, it's a re-enactment of colonials talking about current events circa 1774 in a local tavern. And it's free! 1:30pm and 2:45pm. Hartwell Tavern, Rt. 2A, Lincoln, MA. more
Stories in the Stars		Fri 8/27	Rhode Island
This one's my pick though! It's an outdoor lecture about astronomy where you can see the constellations! 7:30-8:30pm. Register at (401) 949-5454, ext. 3041. Audubon Center, 1401 Hope St, Bristol, RI. more
ZooMoon at Capron Park Zoo		Wed 8/25	Southern Mass
Here's another outdoor evening event... at a zoo. Awesome! 6-9pm, and it's only $6. 201 County St, Attleboro, MA.508-222-3047. more
Annual Tomato Festival		Sat 8/28	Springfield
This one-food festival is rain or shine and comes with a road race, live music, and homey workshops. 7 Carver St, Granby, MA.413-467-7645. more
Annual Peach Festival & Hoedown		Sun 8/29	Springfield
But this one comes with a bbq festival, with live music, hayrides, games, and baking and costume contests! 1-5pm. Smolak Farms, 315 S. Bradford St, Wilbraham, MA.413-599-0010. more
Littleton Palooza		Sat 8/28	Metro West
Here's another festival with no details given! 3-7pm. Littleton, MA. more
Nashua PAL Carnival		Thu 8/26 - Fri 8/27	New Hampshire
This one's not described either, but is apparently some kind of "carnival" fundraiser for "PAL". That could mean anything from a single moonbounce up to a full carnival faire. 5-10pm. Holman Stadium Parking Lot, Nashua, NH. more
Great Waters Folk Festival		Sat 8/28	New Hampshire
Yet another music festival, with participatory jams and a barn dance. Wolfeboro, NH. more
Newport Arts Festival		Sat 8/28 - Sun 8/29	Rhode Island
This festival is nothing special -- art vendors and live music -- but you've got to visit Newport's cliffwalk and mansions before the warm weather's gone! Newport Yachting Center, Newport, RI. more
South Boston Italian Pride Night		Wed 8/25	Boston Metro
So... is this pride to be Italian, or is this Italian Gay pride? Their calendar just says "activites for all to enjoy". Put on your leather chaps and go find out! 6pm. Medal of Honor Park, 775 E 1st St, South Boston, MA.617-635-3911. more
Pirate Party at Wenham Museum		Thu 8/26	North Shore
The good news: it's a pirate party! The bad news: it's during work hours. 1-3pm. Rain or Shine. Pre-registration required. Learn fencing, and take part in a model ship battle on the water. Wenham Museum, 132 Main Street, Wenham, MA.978-468-2377. more
Summer Shack's Hot Dog Eating Contest		Sat 8/28	Boston Metro
Let me be 'frank' -- don't eat 30 hot dogs. Don't even eat one. But do visit the Boston Harbor Islands! Spectacle Island, Boston, MA. more
Boston Restaurant Week - Summer		Sun 8/15 - Fri 8/27	Boston Metro
Get cheap eats at the fanciest restaurants. A marketing ploy, a tourist event, what's the difference? Pay $33 and say, What, this is your DISCOUNTED dinner? Where da IHOP at, yo? Various, Boston, MA. more
Swim with luminous jellyfish off the Cape		Sun 8/15 - Mon 8/30	Cape Cod
Speaking of illumination, I heard once that you could go swimming amongst harmless bioluminescent jellyfish. So I went to Cape Cod to investigate! Near the end of August, sneak into McGansett Beach, in Falmouth. Or any public beach really. Or boat to Tarpaulin Cove. Choose a calm night, because if there's a lot of waves there may be too much turbulence to see the jellyfish. They are non-stinging, and small, about the size of a goose egg. The creatures glow when there's motion in the water, so if you disturb the water, such as jumping off the McGansett Beach dock, you see glowing. You might want to stop into the National Marine Life Center, www.nmic.org, for additional assistance. Let me know if you find them! Falmouth, MA. more
Performance
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)		Tue 8/24	Boston Metro
Did you know there are more than 40 outdoor summer theatre series in New England, most of which are free? I saw this one last year and it's literary and funny, definitely worth your time! 6-8pm. Free. Boston's Christopher Columbus Park, Boston, MA. more
Shakespeare's Twelfth Night		Sun 8/29	Lowell
And this one's part of Lowell's summer music series, but it's theatre. See the big list of outdoor stuff below the blog! Lowell, MA. more
King of the Hill at ImprovBoston		Fri 8/27	Boston Metro
I've seen this show and it was great fun to see two improv teams compete, building comedy out of wacky words shouted out by the audience. Goats! Goatees! Goat tease! 40 Prospect St, Cambridge, MA.617-576-1253. more
Cirque du Soleil		Wed 7/21 - Sun 8/29	Boston Metro
I've also been to see Cirque du Soleil, and found this production much more accessible than the last one. The performers all pretend to be insects and you'll find juggling, acrobatics, and clowns. About a third of the acts are mindblowing, which is more than enough to make the show! Big Top at Fan Pier, Boston, MA. more
Harpsichord Performance		Sat 8/28	Boston Metro
1-4pm. Live music and commentary on the historical context of this colonial era instrument. Come and go as you please. Old State House, Boston, MA. more
Travel
Schemitzun - Native American Festival		Sat 8/28 - Sun 8/29	Connecticut
This festival has native american arts & crafts, dancing, bull-riding, and singing. It's just 2 hours away, as close as you can get to Boston and be in Connecticut. I'd love to see some native american dance that isn't just slowly walking in a circle. Wintechog Hill Road, North Stonington, CT. more
National Fife & Drum Muster		Sat 8/28	Connecticut
Guys, you've got to give me a little more detail or I can't write up what is probably a fine event. Focus, people! Focus! Well, this is a "national" muster, so it's probably big. Westbrook, CT. more
Acton Fair		Thu 8/26 - Sun 8/29	Maine
If you're ever going to visit Maine, the warmest time of the year is when to go! Here are three excuses. Fiesta Shows will have their traveling carnival in Maine and they'll have pig racing, horse & ox pulling, a parade, and all kinds of agricultural goodness. Acton Fairgrounds, Rt 109, Acton, ME. more
Blistered Fingers Bluegrass Music Festival		Thu 8/26 - Sun 8/29	Maine
The idea of the "Travel" section of my blog is to encourage you to spend a whole weekend outside Boston. These events may not be vastly interesting, but combined with the tourist sights you'll see, worth a visit. This one's pretty laid back. Sidney, ME. more
American Folk Festival		Fri 8/27 - Sun 8/29	Maine
... And this is the active one! Bangor, ME. more
Queechee Scottish Festival		Sat 8/28	Vermont
I've got very little interest in Vermont, but a Scottish Festival might draw me there! Quechee Polo Field, Quechee, VT. more
Champlain Valley Fair		Sat 8/28 - Mon 9/6	Vermont
The Champlain Valley Fair includes a demolition derby, a tractor pull, and a ton of famous names. Champlain Valley Exposition, 105 Pearl St., Essex Junction, VT.802-878-5545. more
U.S.A. National Atlatl Championships		Thu 8/26 - Sun 8/29	New York
I don't write about New York, but I couldn't resist this one! Atlatl is an ancient hunting weapon and this group has turned it into a sport! See the "Wounded Mammoth Hunt" for example! Castile, NY. more
Maryland Renaissance Festival at Silver Springs		Sat 8/28 - Sun 10/24	Maryland
I'm told it's the best Renaissance Faire on the east coast and worth a trip. Crownsville Road, Crownsville, MD. more
Burning Man		Mon 8/30 - Mon 9/6	Nevada
I'm told this is the best arts festival in the country -- or at least the zaniest. Black Rock City, NV. more

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Once in a while I do an update in-between weekly posts when something important is coming up!

• I've got a free ticket to see the Edgar Allan Poe re-enactor event tomorrow, Thursday, at Concord at the Old Manse. This is a truly original concept that I've never seen before. The show is at 7pm but they have house tours if you are able to arrive early. Email me to win, especially if you want to offer me a ride! (But I do have a backup way to get there.)
• In this week's blog, I forgot to mention Wildfire, which seems to be some kind of artists retreat sort of like Burning Man but not too far from Boston. It's in Ashford, CT.
• There's a big all-weekend re-enactment in Hillsboro, NH.
• My friends at Lifted are #1 on Virgin's nationwide talent search. Please vote daily for the band and keep them going! I'll give away Canobie Lake Park tickets or Tomb tickets to those who write me with good promotional stories, such as "I made all my friends vote!"

I hope you're making the most of the summer. Especially in New England, you'll regret it if you miss the warm weather festivals that will be gone in a few weeks!

-Johnny

It's my best give away ever! Look below to get tickets to Canobie Lake Park. Love this blog? Subscribe to email, , or and please tell your friends!

-Johnny

The Week in Weird
Win tickets to Canobie Lake Park and Tomb		Sun 8/15 - Thu 8/19	Boston Metro
My friends at Lifted, the band, have been #1 in Virgin's nationwide talent search all week but they just dropped to #2! Please take 30 seconds to vote. Then invite your friends to the Facebook event. The people who email me with the best 'get out the word' story will win tickets to Canobie Lake Park (see below). And I've also got tickets to Tomb, the miniature adventure park in Boston. Vote now! Boston, MA. more
Free movie preview: Lottery Ticket		Fri 8/20	Boston Metro
Last week you missed tickets to The Expendables, Flipped, and Scott Pilgrim because you're not on the Facebook group (which I email) and the fan page (which I post to but you might miss it amongst all the Facebook posts your friends make). Join both now! This week I've got free tickets to Lottery Ticket, Monday at 3pm in Boston. Fenway or Boston Common Theatre, Boston, MA. more
Edgar Allan Poe and Margaret Fuller: A Conversation		Thu 8/19	Metro West
This is incredibly exciting! I've never seen a re-enactor of Poe, the original Goth, and I get to check out this historic home and learn who Margaret Fuller. 7pm, with special tours at 4pm, 5pm, and 6pm. Someone with a car please email, because I want to go!! Old Manse, 269 Monument Street, Concord, MA.978-369-3909. more
Canobie Lake Park and Michael Jackson		Fri 8/20	New Hampshire
Canobie Lake is my favorite amusement park in New England, and I'll tell you why. It's not quite a giant as Six Flags, but it's so much more real. Parking is free and you won't have advertisements in your face all day and people taking your photo and demanding $10. Parkland is integrated, with a variety of trees -- it's an arboretum -- so that it really feels like you're outdoors. In fact, you can take a lakeboat, Ferris wheel, or gondola ride or picnic on the grass just to relax. They continually add rides, so as well as the old favorites, see Castaway Island, the towering water playground, and the park has grownup and kid rides in all 4 corners so if you have a family you can all do something fun. Every Thursday they have a talent search, every Friday is a dance party, and every Saturday are fireworks. 85 N Policy St, Salem, NH.603 893-3506. more
Project MUM, Ice Cream Showdown, and Interactive Art		Sat 8/21	Boston Metro
OMG! OMG! That stands for Outdoor Music Groove! It's a dance party under the McGrath Highway!! 9pm-1am. Rain or shine. Under the McGrath Highway, at the intersection of Washington Street in Somerville, MA, Somerville, MA. more
Banditos Misteriosos Water Gun Fight		Sat 8/21	Boston Metro
A group of insane people are meeting for a water gun fight. I love the concept, although I really don't see why the location has to be kept hidden. It's been on the Esplanade but check the website for the announcement. Bring your own gun and water, and they'd prefer advance registration. (Why? Is it complex to run around screaming with water guns?) 1:30-3pm. TBA, but probably the Esplanade, Boston, MA. more
Westfield International Air Show		Sat 8/21 - Sun 8/22	Springfield
It's not just an air show: it's FREE. They'll have 30 performers and 60 planes on the ground to inspect up close. Amazing! Barnes Air National Guard Base, Westfield, MA. more
East Boston Pride Day		Sat 8/21	Boston Metro
Can't get out to Provincetown for Carnival? This is a novelty, a liberal festival in a (presumably) conservative neighborhood, and they'll have steel drums and jugglers and more, with 2,500 people on the street. Piers Park, East Boston, MA. more
Quincy August Moon Festival		Sun 8/22	South Shore
Did you miss last week's Chinese August Moon Festival? It's not too late! Come catch it in Quincy, with dragon dancing and lots of cute kids performing outdoors. Downtown Quincy, 1400-1600 Hancock St., Quincy, MA.617-472-2200. more
Lowell Southeast Asian Water Festival		Sat 8/21	Northern Mass
Lowell will have dragon boat races and performance including "Monkey Dancers" and rap in Khmer. Awesome! Lowell Heritage State Park Esplanade & Sampas Pavilion, 500 Pawtucket Blvd, Lowell, MA. more
Jaffrey Festival of Fireworks		Sat 8/21	New Hampshire
They'll have live music, games for kids (what about us adults?), a skydiving performance and then fireworks "after dusk". Rain or shine. Jaffrey Airport Rte. 124, 190 Turnpike Road, Jaffrey, NH. more
White Mountain Boogie N' Blues Festival (and Fireworks)		Fri 8/20 - Sun 8/22	New Hampshire
But heck, if you're going to New Hampshire, why not go for the whole weekend and see this music fest and fireworks, too! Lincoln, NH. more
Fireworks at the Ocean Park by the Sea		Fri 8/20	Southeast Mass
They'll also have fireworks and concert on Martha's Vinyard, a good excuse to visit so of course you must go experience the beaches carousel, and tiny museums and shops. I went one year, and it was fantastic -- *really* impressive. And that's coming from a guy who's seen a lot of fireworks. Ocean Park, Oak Bluffs, MA.508-693-5380. more
Sandcastle and Sculpture Day (Nantucket)		Sat 8/21	Newport Area
On the "other" vacation island: I've always wanted to check out this event, but it's just very hard to actually get to Nantucket Island. How about flying: Cape Air, 800-352-0714, Nantucker Airlines 800-635-8787, Island Airlines 800-248-7779, or ferry from Cape Cod. Nantucket Island, MA.508-228-1700. more
Carnival in Provincetown		Sun 8/15 - Sat 8/21	Cape Cod
You don't speak the name of New England's big gay carnival. You sing it, thusly, It's time for CAAAAARN-I-VAAAAL!! This year features comedian Margaret Cho, a parade, oh heck, the entire town is basically a parade for a week! All Over, Provincetown, MA.800-637-8696. more
Summer Night at the Harvard Museum of Natural History		Thu 8/19	Boston Metro
They're trying hard at the Harvard Museum of Natural History to create a night life calendar, and the events I've attended have been great successes. Take a gallery tour about animal colors, and attend lectures about the invasive longhorn beetle and a geological tour of the origin of the solar system through extremely old rocks. 5-8pm. Harvard Museum of Natural History, Cambridge, MA. more
Ford / Lincoln Day at Larz Anderson Museum		Sun 8/22	Boston Metro
Yes, I'm going to keep listing Museum of Transporation events until you finally go. We're so lucky to have a world class auto museum in New England, and what, you haven't been? 15 Newton Street, Brookline, MA.617-522-6547. more
Winnekenni Cruise Day		Sun 8/22	North Shore
Another car show's going to be at a castle, sort of, on the North Shore. Haverhill, MA.978-521-1230. more
Metro West Car Show		Sun 8/22	Metro West
This one's the smallest of the group but will still feature 150 old timey automobiles! 11am-3pm. Ashland High School, Ashland, MA. more
Fly in a restored B17 Bomber - Show		Fri 8/20 - Sun 8/22	North Shore
Or upgrade from cars to planes. It's just $5 to walk into a real WWII bomber. Or spend $400 to fly in one! Lawrence Municipal Airport, Main Terminal, Lawrence, MA.800-359-6217. more
Seaside Pow Wow and Festival		Sun 8/22 - Mon 8/23	North Shore
While you're up there, check out this intertribal American Indian event featuring dancing, story telling and arts and crafts. It's free! Stage Fort Park, Gloucester, MA.978-281-2978. more
Pi-Con Science Fiction Convention		Fri 8/20 - Sun 8/22	Western Mass
Or upgrade to alien spaceships! This smallish science fiction convention has the usual panels, workshops, guests, and costuming. Best Western Sovereign Hotel, West Springfield, MA. more
Connecticut River Valley Astronomers Conjunction		Fri 8/20 - Sat 8/21	Western Mass
If I were in Western Mass, I think I'd go here, to one of the two big Massachusetts astronomer gatherings (The other is Aruna Hill). During the day, hear lectures and look safely at solar spots. During the night, see the stars under guidance by hobbyists and pros. Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center, Northfield, MA. more
Dinosaur State Park Day		Sat 8/21	Connecticut
It's just 2 hours from Boston - a museum built around actual dinosaur footprints. I've seen it and it's highly recommended. And they'll be having their annual festival. 400 West Street, Rocky Hill, CT.860-529-8423. more
The Big Lebowski Annual Bowling Party		Mon 8/16	Boston Metro
TONIGHT! Every year the Coolidge theatre has an actual bowling party before viewing the Big Lebowski, the movies about slackers. Speaking of slackers, why the hell are you indoors on a beautiful warm August night? Get yourself to a beach! Coolidge Corner Theatre, Brookline, MA. more
Boston Greenfest		Thu 8/19 - Sat 8/21	Boston Metro
I was at Boston Greenfest last year, and you'll find tons of information booths and vendors, but that's pretty much it. Well, there will be live music all day. And it's easy to get to! City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA. more
Fortress of Nightmares Presents Summer Ghost Hunts		Fri 8/20	Rhode Island
It's too soon for Halloween, but to raise money for their annual haunted house, Fort Adams is doing summer ghost tours. Hopefully they'll be awesome! 9pm-12am. Fort Adams State Park, Newport, RI. more
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)		Tue 8/24	Boston Metro
Did you know there are more than 40 outdoor summer theatre series in New England, most of which are free? I saw this one last year and it's literary and funny, definitely worth your time! 6-8pm. Free. Boston's Christopher Columbus Park, Boston, MA. more
Abigail Adams Meets Captain William Smith		Sun 8/22	Metro West
This week you can meet the wife of former president John Adams re-enacted, as well. Preceded by "Colonial Tunes with the Hartwell Players". 2:30pm. Captain William Smith House, Lexington, MA. more
The Long Arm of the Law		Sat 8/21	Metro West
There's just no stopping MIMA, the national park. This re-enactment is a 1770's courtroom. Hartwell Tavern - Rt. 2A, Lincoln, MA. more
Picnic with the John and Abigail Adams, Grape Island		Sat 8/21	Boston Metro
And Abigail is getting around this week, also visiting the BAH-ston HAH-bah Islands. Grape Island, Boston, MA. more
Also Fun
Costumed Civil War Storytelling		Sun 8/22	Boston Metro
Another excuse, not that you need it, to visit the harbor islands is this costumed tour, sort of a re-enactment. Georges Island, Boston, MA. more
Snow in Summer Celebration		Sun 8/22	Boston Metro
Santa comes to the Boston Harbor Islands and there will be storytelling too. Definitely a kids thing, but hey, I AM a big kid. Boston Harbor Islands, Boston, MA. more
Free Day at Concord Museum and Scavenger Hunt		Wed 8/18	Metro West
A free day at the Concord Museum may draw you into the numerous local museums. Try the National Heritage Museum in Lexington, which is free always, or the DeCordova Sculpture Museum in Lincoln, my personal favorite. They're also doing a historical scavenger hunt. Concord Museum, 200 Lexington Road, Concord, MA.978-369-9763. more
Free Fun Fridays: Institute of Contemporary Art		Fri 8/20	Boston Metro
Boston's newest and hippest museum is also free Friday, 10am-9pm, thanks to the generosity of Highland Street. It's free every Thursday night too thanks to their own generosity! 100 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA. more
Marshfield Fair		Fri 8/20 - Sun 8/29	South Shore
As well as the usual fair contests, they'll have a demolition derby, 2 music tents, a carnival, and a "battle of the bands". Route 3A at South River St., Marshfield, MA.781-834-6629. more
Hardwick County Fair		Fri 8/20 - Sat 8/21	Worcester
Beyond the usual sheep and cattle, they'll have a lumberjack contest, hay rides, and frog jumping at this one! Fri 5:30-10 pm, Sat 7am-5 pm. Mostly free. Town Common, Rt 32A, Hardwick, MA. more
Westfield Fair		Fri 8/20 - Sun 8/22	Springfield
This one's smaller but perhaps more convenient if you're going to the Westfield Air Show. Westfield, MA. more
Vintage Regatta at Patton Park		Sat 8/21	North Shore
How awesome is this? The local yacht club will race 3-foot radio controlled boats and you can take a turn! 9am-12pm. Free with museum admission. Wenham Museum, 132 Main Street, Wenham, MA. Patton Park, Hamilton, MA.978-468-2377. more
Latin American Festival at Worcester City Hall		Sat 8/21	Worcester
This ethnic festival seems to be pretty same-old same-old. Worcester City Hall, 455 Main Street, Worcester, MA.508-798-1900. more
The Salem Jazz and Soul Festival. Salem, MA		Sat 8/21 - Sun 8/22	North Shore
This looks more interesting, and a good excuse to spend the whole weekend on the North Shore. It seems to be outdoors. Salem Willows, 167 Fort Avenue, Salem, MA. more
Downtown Gloucester Block Party		Sat 8/21	North Shore
Gloucester has blocks. They also have parties. Gloucester, MA. more
Verrill Farm Corn & Tomato Festival		Sat 8/21	Metro West
I haven't been to Verrill Farm yet, but they're continually having interesting events. This one includes hay & pony rides, and a petting zoo. 11 Wheeler Road, Concord, MA.978-369-4494. more
NEBS Summerfest		Sat 8/21 - Sun 8/22	Northwest Mass
Of course if you're looking for a food festival you could hardly beat the BBQ professionals in NEBS! Try to guess what NEBS stands for! Something Something BARBECUE Something!! YUM!! Oh God I'm so hungry now! :). Camp Collier, Gardner, MA. more
South Coast Rhode Island Open Studios		Sat 8/21 - Sun 8/22	Rhode Island
Rhode Island is getting into the "Open Studios" craze. Artists open their private homes and work studios to the public. Tiverton, RI.401-816-0000. more
Annual Children's Festival & Talent Competition		Fri 8/20	New Hampshire
This childrens festival is conveniently right when most of us are working. Well, it's free. Hampton Beach, Hampton Beach, NH. more
Fabulous Family Fun Day		Sat 8/21	Southeast Mass
And this festival has the ubiquitous facepainting and live music. Rain date next day. 3-8pm. Taunton, MA. more
Summer Sunday in the Park		Sun 8/22	South Shore
Or head to this one, also South of the city, which also is decent with 'games and entertainment' but has nothing unusual about it. 12-6pm. DW Field Park, Brockton, MA.508-580-7123. more
90th anniversary of the 19th Amendment providing women's civil rights		Fri 8/20 - Sun 8/22	Boston Metro
Have you heard that women can vote now? Gee, next thing you know they'll be showing their ankles. This celebration comes with no information. I guess you'll have to call to find out more. Boston, MA.617-867-8231. more
Boston Restaurant Week - Summer		Sun 8/15 - Fri 8/27	Boston Metro
Get cheap eats at the fanciest restaurants. A marketing ploy, a tourist event, what's the difference? Pay $33 and say, What, this is your DISCOUNTED dinner? Where da IHOP at, yo? Various, Boston, MA. more
Swim with luminous jellyfish off the Cape		Sun 8/15 - Mon 8/30	Cape Cod
Speaking of illumination, I heard once that you could go swimming amongst harmless bioluminescent jellyfish. So I went to Cape Cod to investigate! Near the end of August, sneak into McGansett Beach, in Falmouth. Or any public beach really. Or boat to Tarpaulin Cove. Choose a calm night, because if there's a lot of waves there may be too much turbulence to see the jellyfish. They are non-stinging, and small, about the size of a goose egg. The creatures glow when there's motion in the water, so if you disturb the water, such as jumping off the McGansett Beach dock, you see glowing. You might want to stop into the National Marine Life Center, www.nmic.org, for additional assistance. Let me know if you find them! Falmouth, MA. more
Anniversary of Johnny's List (2005)		Sat 8/21	Boston Metro
Can you believe that Johnny's List is now 5 years old! Please send uplifting comments and your suggestions for making this website more useful. I'm working now on a brand new searchable calendar to help you browse. And check out my art project at http://WheelQuestions.org. Everywhere, New England. more
Performance
The Hound of the Baskervilles -- a Comedy		Thu 7/22 - Sun 8/22	Boston Metro
I've seen this Sherlock Holmes play and didn't realize -- it's a comedy! It's a hilarious parody of everyone's favorite detective, with three actors playing about 12 roles. While there isn't a very deep mystery to solve, the comedy and staging and accents are laugh-out-loud funny and this is HIGHLY recommended! 450 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA. more
Fully Committed		Sun 8/1 - Sun 8/29	Boston Metro
From what I've seen, there is no equal in outdoor theatre this summer. It's a comedy where one man plays 37 roles while trying to answer non-stop phone calls at the reservation desk at a fancy retaurant. Publick Theatre, Boston, MA. more
Cirque du Soleil		Wed 7/21 - Sun 8/29	Boston Metro
I've also been to see Cirque du Soleil, and found this production much more accessible than the last one. The performers all pretend to be insects and you'll find juggling, acrobatics, and clowns. About a third of the acts are mindblowing, which is more than enough to make the show! Big Top at Fan Pier, Boston, MA. more
OBA Carnival By Rockwell Amusements		Thu 8/19 - Sun 8/22	Cape Cod
This carnival is likely bigger and better than the Fiesta Shows festivals that I keep writing about. Onset, MA. more
The B52s		Fri 8/20	Lowell
I'm excited that the B-52s are coming! It's not free, but it's part of Lowell's outdoor music series, and I track over 215 summer outdoor music series, most of which ARE fee. See below! Lowell, MA. more
Travel
Riverfront Dragon Boat and Asian Festival		Sat 8/21 - Sun 8/22	Connecticut
The whole dragon boat festival goes beyond Pawtucket and Lowell, apparently! Hartford, CT. more
Maine Highland Games		Sat 8/21	Maine
But if I were traveling, I'd go to Maine! I've been to this beach, it's genuinely amazing. They'll have athletics, all kinds of music and dance, and booths where you can join whichever Scottish "clan" you like. Thomas Point Beach, Brunswick, ME.207-688-4515. more
Great Falls Balloon Festival		Fri 8/20 - Sun 8/22	Maine
I really want to see this too! About 2.5 hours' drive from Boston, featuring 30 balloons. Reserve ahead for your ride. Lewiston, ME.800-639-6331. more
Skowhegan State Fair		Thu 8/12 - Thu 8/19	Maine
Or travel WAY up to Maine where Fiesta Shows will have their traveling carnival, again. Skowhegan, ME. more
Dance New England - Dance Camp		Sat 8/14 - Tue 8/24	Maine
Enjoy dancing? Want to experience 11 days of heat with no meat? Here's a retreat, a feat for your feet that can't be beat! P.S. This is your graphic?? Get a new logo, people! Omni Camp, Poland Springs, ME. more
Rabble in Arms		Sat 8/21 - Sun 8/22	Vermont
18th-century reenactors share their way of life - men in battle, camp followers that accompanied and assisted the troops, and the shipbuilders and blacksmiths that prepared the fleet. Step aboard Benedict Arnold's gunboat replica Philadelphia II in North Harbor for shipboard life demonstrations and more! Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, 4472 Basin Harbor Rd, Vergennes, VT. more

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-Johnny

The Week in Weird
Free tix: The Expendables, Flipped, The Extra Man		8/9 - 8/12	Boston Metro
You keep missing free tickets -- like to "Takers" yesterday -- because you're not on the Facebook group (which I email) and the fan page (which I post to). Join both now! This week I've got free tickets to the Expendables with Bruce Willis and Jet Li TONIGHT Monday at 7pm, The Extra Man with Kevin Kline TONIGHT Monday, and Flipped Thursday at 7pm in Boston. I also have tickets to advance screening of the Showtime series The Big C and WEEDS, Wed 8/11. Fenway or Boston Common Theatre, Boston, MA. more
Chinatown August Moon Festival		8/15	Boston Metro
Chinatown is having a celebration where dancing dragons go door to door, sort of a trick or treat experience, leaving the street literally covered with firework casings and lettuce leaves! They'll also have a stage with cute kids doing martial arts and dance. I've been and this is a must see! Highly recommended! 10am-5pm. Main Street, Chinatown, Boston, MA.617-350- 6303. more
Pawtucket Arts Fest & Dragonboat Races		8/15 - 9/4	Rhode Island
Even better, visit Rhode Island for asian dance, crafts, martial arts, and dragonboat races all day. It's also part of the "Pawtucket Arts Festival", which is really just an umbrella event covering a lot of diverse things, but plenty more is happening in town that day, including French culture, a film festival, and a walking tour. 2009: Races 8/29 8am-5pm. Rest of 'festival' goes to 9/13. School Street Pier, School St., Pawtucket, RI.401-724-2200. more
Dominican Festival & Parade at Franklin Park		8/15	Boston Metro
There's also a carnival at Franklin Park with Domican, Haitian, and Jamaican food, music, and dance. 12pm-7pm. Free. Ramsey Park, Boston, MA.617-201-2909. more
Native American Summer Festival at Harbor Islands		8/14 - 8/15	Boston Metro
You shouldn't need an excuse to visit the Boston Harbor Islands, but here's a great one: one of only two native american festivals close to Boston. Harbor Island, Boston, MA. more
India Day - Festival & Concert		8/15	Boston Metro
Speaking of Indians, I've been to the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade in Boston. They have performers and a huge crowd with dozens of booths. As the only South Asian-themed event I know of in Boston, it's definitely worth a trip. Esplanade, Boston, MA. more
Summer Stars and Meteors at Broadmoor		8/12	Metro West
The Perseids (August) and the Geminids (December) are the most reliable of the annual meteor showers. Here's an astronomy event for older kids and adults to guide your view. Or go anywhere using these websites as guides. Get to a beach or a very large field with no streetlights to wash out the night sky. Broadmoor, 280 Eliot Street, Natick, MA. more
Pirate Weekend at Pioneer Village		8/14 - 8/15	North Shore
Salem has a historic re-enactment museum that's doing a weekend of pirates! They'll demonstrate piratical punishments, blacksmithing, pirate cooking, sea tales and sea songs. Pioneer Village, Salem, MA. more
Salem Heritage Days		8/7 - 8/15	North Shore
Salem is having an all-week festival with tons of events like a giant ice cream fundraiser, YMCA pizza competition, live music, street fair (8/14), outdoor movie (8/12), maritime festival, ice cream social (8/14), and Pirate Day (8/14-8/15)! Various, Salem, MA. more
Improv on the Bricks		8/14 - 8/15	North Shore
Salem Theatre Company's outdoor improv comedy show. 3:30pm. Derby Square on the Front Street side of Old Town Hall, Salem, MA.978-590-3276. more
Beach Party Luau at NARA Park, Acton		8/14	Metro West
Also in Acton, this may be their biggest event of the year, with music from the 1960s and tons of games. 3-7pm. NARA Park, Acton, MA. more
Model Rocket Launch at Acton		8/14	Metro West
And while you're in the area, go see the model rocket launches! 10am-4pm. School St. field, Acton, MA. more
Runaway Runway		8/14	Metro West
Also Metro West, the Minuteman National Park is very active with re-enactments. This one, based in the 18th century, is about runaway servants and slaves. North Bridge, Concord, MA. more
Model airplanes - CRRC Soar-In		8/14 - 8/15	Metro West
And this one will have real runways, with model airplanes and helicopters! I've been and it's a small event but great fun! Call Mark Drela at 617 253 0067, or drela@mit.edu. Lunch included in admission. Register ahead for discount. Directions, see http://www.charlesriverrc.org/fields_davis.htm. Davis Field, off Rt 117, Sudbury, MA.978-897-1750. more
MG Rover Day at Larz Anderson Auto Museum		8/14	Boston Metro
Boston's wonderful auto museum has another lawn day, this time with MGs. 15 Newton Street, Brookline, MA.617-522-6547. more
Japanese Car & Motorcycle Day at Larz Anderson Auto Museum		8/15	Boston Metro
And the next day it's motorcycles and japanese cars, an odd combination. 15 Newton Street, Brookline, MA.617-522-6547. more
Fisherman's Festival (Madonna Del Soccorso)		8/12 - 8/15	Boston Metro
This is one of many North End Italian festivals, including a procession on Sunday. It's free. North Street, Boston, MA.617-248-0343. more
Ronan Park Kite Festival		8/15	Boston Metro
Here's a kite festival of unknown size. 12-3pm. Ronan Park, Dorchester, MA. more
The Big Lebowski Annual Bowling Party		8/16	Boston Metro
Every year the Coolidge theatre has an actual bowling party before viewing the Big Lebowski, the movies about slackers. Speaking of slackers, why the hell are you indoors on a beautiful warm August night? Get yourself to a beach! Coolidge Corner Theatre, Brookline, MA. more
Carnival in Provincetown		8/15 - 8/21	Cape Cod
New England's big gay carnival features comedian Margaret Cho, a parade, oh heck, the entire town is basically a parade for a week! Provincetown, MA.800-637-8696. more
Lowell Quilt Festival		8/12 - 8/14	Northern Mass
Speaking of gay celebrations, this is 2nd largest annual quilt festival in the Boston area. Be open-minded! I went to a quilt show once and it was actually fantastic, the quilts are really works of art, not grandma checkerboards. Lowell, MA. more
World's Fair of Money		8/10 - 8/14	Boston Metro
How crazy is this? A museum exhibition featuring recovered sunken treasure, historic gold coins, and $100,000 bills is coming to Boston, thanks to the American Numismatic Association. They'll have a demonstration of money engraving and printing too! Tue 1-5:30pm, Wed-Sat, 9:30-5:30pm. Hynes Convention Center, 900 Boylston St, Boston, MA.719-482-9857.. more
Thailand Legacy: The King and Cambridge		8/15	Boston Metro
This is the 4th asian festival this week! I've been to the Longfellow House, and it's not going to be a huge festival, but it's definitely worth the trip! Did you know that George Washington used it as his headquarters? No doubt this day of origami, calligraphy, & games will be a great excuse to visit. They'll have Buddhist monks and demonstrate a traditional Thai wedding. And its free! 105 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA.617-876-4491. more
Cambridge Discovery Days		8/7 - 8/14	Boston Metro
This one is more laid back, essentially, they give free walking tours featuring famous dead poets and other locals. Various, Cambridge, MA. more
Woody Guthrie appreciation concert		8/15	Metro West
If you need an excuse to visit the Old Manse, a historic home, this Woodie Guthrie tribute may be the trick! The Old Manse, 269 Monument Street, Concord, MA. more
Wilco Solid Sound Festival at Mass MoCA		8/13 - 8/15	Western Mass
But as outdoor museum festivals go, it's hard to beat the art, comedy, and music at the fantastic Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, which will be partly indoors. Mass MoCA, North Adams, MA. more
River Glow		8/14	Rhode Island
This is some kind of Water Fire type celebration, with floating bonfires, belly dancing, steel drum bands, jugglers, and more. 7-10pm. Westerly, RI. more
Rock, Rattle, & Drum Pow Wow & Spirit on the Mountain Music Festival		8/14 - 8/15	Western Mass
This one seems to be a serious music event, as well as a Native American pow wow, and well worth a visit. Considering camping over that weekend. Don't be afraid -- it's only 20 minutes over the state border into New York. Rt. 22 & Rt. 43, Stephentown, NY.413-464-0919. more
Celebrate Revere		8/14	Boston Metro
This festival seems a little too "family fun" for me -- face painting and magic and balloons for kids -- but they end with live music and fireworks! Revere Beach, Revere, MA. more
Bolton Fair		8/12 - 8/15	Worcester
Both smaller and not arty, it's yet another agricultural festival! They'll have a lumberjack contest and show, martial arts, trampolite show, dogs catching frisbees, and a "sheep agility" contest. Let's just hope it's the sheep who are demonstrating the agility in that one, not the owners. Bolton Fairgrounds, Rt 117, Exit 27 off Rt 495, Lancaster, MA. more
Parade of Lights		8/14	Boston Metro
I saw this once in Gloucester. It's a parade of boats that have lights on them, like a summertime maritime moving Xmas display. It's fun but very very slow, so bring some friends to chat with while you relax and watch. Boston, MA.781-861-7060. more
Boston by Bike at Night		8/14 - 8/15	Boston Metro
This architectural and historic tour starts at midnight and goes to dawn with a "pot luck" breakfast. Can't you guys just go to a cafe for brunch? meet at 11:15pm. Bring something for breakfast Sunday in Christopher Columbus Park. Run by the Back Bay Midnight Pedalers. Trinity Church, 206 Clarendon St., Boston, MA.617-522-0259. more
The Secret Lives of Bats		8/5 - 8/11	Rhode Island
In this event, hear a lecture and then go out to actually track down live bats! Pre-register. Note, the photo is not a bat but they didn't have any bat photos! 8-9pm. Audubon Environmental Education Center, 1401 Hope Street, Bristol, RI.(401) 949-5454 ext. 3041. more
Family Nighttime Explorations		8/13	Rhode Island
7-9pm. Also outdoorsy, you go out at night to look for bats, deer and coyotes. Coyotes? We're actually going to try to approach coyotes? Then a campfire and s'mores! Awesome!! Register at (401) 949-5454, ext. 3041 or email programs@asri.org. Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, 99 Pardon Joslin Road, Exeter, RI. more
Also Fun
MIT Museum Free evening		8/13	Boston Metro
The MIT Museum is free as it is on Second Fridays of each month from 5-8pm. MIT Museum, Cambridge, MA. more
Free Admission at Concord Museum		8/18	Metro West
A free day at the Concord Museum may draw you into the numerous local museums. Try the National Heritage Museum in Lexington, which is free always, or the DeCordova Sculpture Museum in Lincoln, my personal favorite. Concord Museum, 200 Lexington Road, Concord, MA.978-369-9763. more
Free Fun Fridays: Old Sturbridge Village		8/13	Worcester
But the best free event would be Old Sturbridge Village, my favorite re-enactment museum! Sturbridge, MA. more
Essex Street Fair		8/14 - 8/15	North Shore
This is just an excuse to visit Salem before Halloween season. And there are tons of other nearby events as part of Salem's Heritage Days. Essex Street, Salem, MA. more
Phillips House Car Meet		8/15	North Shore
While you're there, check out the ancient Pierce-Arrows, Model A Ford, and five carriages on display at this car show. "Family games" and jazz music. 12-3pm. Free. Salem, MA.978-744-0440. more
Gloucester Waterfront Festival		8/14 - 8/15	North Shore
This street festival is more enticing, I think, if you're going to be on the North Shore. Gloucester, MA. more
Rockport Acoustic Music Festival		8/15	North Shore
I'm including this just as an example of the live outdoor music that you can find all over New England. See my big list below where I track 215 outdoor summer music series! 12-6pm. Rockport, MA. more
Wakefield Italian Festival		8/14	North Shore
It's Italian. It's a festival. Will there be food? Si! Mangi! Mangi! They'll have music and dancing, too. Main and Albion Streets, Wakefield, MA.(603) 490-8050. more
Clambake at Francis Farm		8/14	Southeast Mass
Speaking of eating, how about a genine clambake in my home town of Rehoboth! 11am-4pm. Francis Farm, Francis Farm Road, Rehoboth, MA. more
Rehoboth Antiquarian Society Clambake		8/15	Southeast Mass
Or better yet, this annual celebration of the antiquarian society -- the people who run the local Rehoboth museum. It's New Englandy goodness, check it out. Goff Hall, Rehoboth, MA.508-252-3031. more
Newport Storm Luau		8/14	Rhode Island
I would have ranked this higher but it seems to be an alcohol bash thing. But they'll have live music, Hawaiian themes, and Polynesian dance. When I visited Hawaii I was informed that Polynesia is thousands of miles away and they're separate cultures. It's like visiting Boston and seeing Irish dance. Fort Adams State Park, Newport, RI. more
Washington County Fair		8/11 - 8/15	Rhode Island
It's the largest agricultural fair in RI. Does that make it worth visiting? Yes, if you choose something else fun while you're visiting the area. Washington County Fairgrounds, Richmond Townhouse Rd., Carolina, RI.401-782-8139. more
Prescott Park Rhythm & Roots Fest		8/14	New Hampshire
Heading up to Water Country for the day, the big water park? Stop by this music festival, too. 1-5pm. Portsmouth, NH. more
Richmond Blueberry Fiddle Festival		8/14	New Hampshire
This one's not really on the road to anywhere. Cheshire Fairgrounds, Swanzey, NH. more
Provincetown Jazz Festival		8/13 - 8/15	Cape Cod
Although I have no interest in jazz whatsoever, perhaps this will inspire you to check out Cape Cod an its CARNIVAL TIME TOO! Provincetown, MA. more
Melrose Summer Celebration		8/13	Boston Metro
A lot of towns have an annual "town day" and this is one of them. Do we care? Well, they'll have unspecified "games", the ubiquitous face painting, and a moon bounce that presumably adults can't go into. They also promise 'surprises', which I assume is code for, 'we're still setting up the event'. 11am-2pm. Melrose, MA.(781) 662-9511. more
Turners Falls Block Party and Fashion Show		8/14	Northwest Mass
How bad could live music be with a band called "primate fiasco"? :). Turners Falls, MA. more
Winslow Farm Kids Day & Treasure Hunt		8/14 - 8/15	Southeast Mass
Winslow farm is in the middle of nowhere but is surprisingly wonderful to discover! This weekend is their anniversary celebration and they'll have treasure hunts, kids games, live music, and more. Winslow Farm, 37 Eddy Street, Norton, MA.508-285-6451. more
Watermelon Eating Contest & Children's Day		8/14	New Hampshire
This one comes with a watermelon eating contest! Awesome! Nashua, NH. more
Rhode Island International Film Festival		8/10 - 8/15	Rhode Island
Wow! Nice website! This is the largest film festival in Rhode Island, featuring an H.P. Lovecraft walking tour, plenty of social events, and actors and directors. Providence, RI.401-861-4445. more
Martha's Vineyard African-American Film Festival		8/11 - 8/14	Southeast Mass
And here's something to do on Martha's Vinyard if you don't like sun, beaches, or water. They have a couple of lightweight socials but don't say if any directors or actors will be present. They have workshops but apparently they're financial workshops from the festival's sponsor! Marthas Vinyard, MA. more
Illumination Night		8/18	Southeast Mass
This is live music and a sing-along with a "lighting of the lantern". Whatever, it's on a wonderful beach island. Go! Marthas Vinyard, MA. more
Swim with luminous jellyfish off the Cape		8/15 - 8/30	Cape Cod
Speaking of illumination, I heard once that you could go swimming amongst harmless bioluminescent jellyfish. So I went to Cape Cod to investigate! Near the end of August, sneak into McGansett Beach, in Falmouth. Or any public beach really. Or boat to Tarpaulin Cove. Choose a calm night, because if there's a lot of waves there may be too much turbulence to see the jellyfish. They are non-stinging, and small, about the size of a goose egg. The creatures glow when there's motion in the water, so if you disturb the water, such as jumping off the McGansett Beach dock, you see glowing. You might want to stop into the National Marine Life Center, www.nmic.org, for additional assistance. Let me know if you find them! Falmouth, MA. more
Boston Restaurant Week - Summer		8/15 - 8/27	Boston Metro
Get cheap eats at the fanciest restaurants. A marketing ploy, a tourist event, what's the difference? Pay $33 and say, What, this is your DISCOUNTED dinner? Where da IHOP at, yo? Various, Boston, MA. more
Performance
Friday Night Face-Off at ImprovBoston		7/16 - 8/27	Boston Metro
I caught this show last week and it was great fun to see two improv teams compete, building comedy out of wacky words shouted out by the audience. Goats! Goatees! Goat tease! 40 Prospect St, Cambridge, MA.617-576-1253. more
The Hound of the Baskervilles -- a Comedy		7/22 - 8/22	Boston Metro
I saw this Sherlock Holmes play last week and didn't realize -- it's a comedy! It's a hilarious parody of everyone's favorite detective, with three actors playing about 12 roles. While there isn't a very deep mystery to solve, the comedy and staging and accents are laugh-out-loud funny and this is HIGHLY recommended! 450 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA. more
Cirque du Soleil		7/21 - 8/29	Boston Metro
I've also been to see Cirque du Soleil, and found this production much more accessible than the last one. The performers all pretend to be insects and you'll find juggling, acrobatics, and clowns. About a third of the acts are mindblowing, which is more than enough to make the show! Big Top at Fan Pier, Boston, MA. more
Fully Committed		7/22 - 8/15	Boston Metro
From what I've seen, there is no equal in outdoor theatre this summer. It's a comedy where one man plays 37 roles while trying to answer non-stop phone calls at the reservation desk at a fancy retaurant. Publick Theatre, Boston, MA. more
Captured - The Journey Show		8/14	Boston Metro
If you're a fan of Journey, this is the tribute band to see. Regent Theatre, Arlington, MA. more
Travel
Vermont Old Home Week & WWII Encampment		8/14 - 8/15	Vermont
WWII encampment, displays and skirmishes, with a parade! Wilmington, VT. more
Americana Days, Anniversary of the Battle of Bennington		8/14 - 8/16	Vermont
Cannons, Soldiers and Ceremonies at this nearby event. Bennington, VT. more
Tweed River Festival		8/13 - 8/15	Vermont
This is yet another campground all-weekend festival. Why not? Stockbridge, VT. more
Lake Champlain Bluegrass Festival		8/12 - 8/15	Vermont
This one looks bigger from their website. Alburgh, VT. more
Mohegan Storytelling & Music Festival		8/14	New York
This one involves professional storytellers. 99 Baron de Hirsch Rd, Crompond, NY. more
Skowhegan State Fair		8/12 - 8/19	Maine
Or travel WAY up to Maine where Fiesta Shows will have their traveling carnival, again. Skowhegan, ME. more
Dance New England - Dance Camp		8/14 - 8/24	Maine
Enjoy dancing? Want to experience 11 days of heat with no meat? Here's a retreat, a feat for your feet that can't be beat! P.S. This is your graphic?? Get a new logo, people! Omni Camp, Poland Springs, ME. more