Boston Events Insider

January 30-February 7, 2012: Valentine's Cruise Giveaway, Hasty Pudding, Winter Carnivals, Robot Contests, Animal Tracking & Owl Night Hikes

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:40:24 -0500

This Week in Review

We're having a wonderfully mild winter here in Boston. I actually miss the snow. So don't sit around. Get out and do some of the wonderful outdoor activities that I'm listing this week. It's a slow month, so I'm including a dozen state park activities like guided nighttime tours and searching for owls and eagles!

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

-Johnny

The Week in Weird

Valentine's Dinner Cruise - tix giveaway
Sat 2/11 - Tue 2/14

This is it! If you're looking for that special Valentine's Day treat, a dinner cruise with a live band has got to be at the top of your list. And I'm giving away two pairs of tickets for the Feb 11 cruise! Email johnny@eventsINSIDER.com to win. (Click 'more' for details)This is it! If you're looking for that special Valentine's Day treat, a dinner cruise with a li... Boston, MA .

Hasty Pudding Man of t...
Fri 2/3

The Man of the year is Jason Segel, the actor from Forgetting Sarah Marshall and The Muppets, with a roast at 8pm that's sold out, but there may be a parade through Harvard Square beforehand. Click for my review of the Woman of the Year and a preview of the Hasty Pudding's upcoming shows. (Click 'more' for details)The Man of the year is Jason Segel, the actor from Forgetting Sarah Marshall and T... Zero Arrow Street Theater, Cambridge, MA .

The Last Testament: A ...
Sun 2/5

The head comedy writer of The Daily Show is coming to Harvard, dressing up like God, and performing some comedy for the humanists (they're like atheists with a heart). It is bound to be fantastic, beyond fantastic! 1:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)The head comedy writer of The Daily Show is coming to Harvard, dressing up like God, and performing some co... Cambridge, MA .

Franklin Park Winter S...
Sat 2/4

I love being outdoors and that's why I'm glad for winter festival season! Franklin Park is easy to get to, even if you don't have a car. If there's snow, you can borrow sleds and snowshoes, and they'll have an animal tracking class and a guided cross-country ski tour. Drink hot chocolate and play board games. 12-3pm. (Click 'more' for details)I love being outdoors and that's why I'm glad for winter festival ... Clubhouse at Franklin Park, 1 Circuit Dr, Dorchester, MA .

Acton, Winter Carnival...
Sat 2/4

This one's in Acton, with a cardboard sled race, human sled dog race, snowball toss, model rocket launches, snowball toss competition, and a lot more. Plus an encampment of re-enactors playing minutemen from the American Revolutionary War! 12-4pm. (Click 'more' for details)This one's in Acton, with a cardboard sled race, human sled dog race, snowball toss... NARA Park, 25 Ledge Rock Way, Acton, MA .

Greenfield Winter Carnival
Fri 2/3 - Sun 2/5

Further out along Route 2 in Western Massachusetts, Greenfield has a festival, too. Make a cardboard sled and race. Fireworks, snowshoeing, ice skating, ice bowling, snow volleyball, a tug o' war, and a snowman competition with an entire snow village. Wow! (Click 'more' for details)Further out along Route 2 in Western Massachusetts, Greenfield has a festival, too. Make a cardboard sled... Greenfield, MA .

Frederick Douglass Rea...
Sun 2/5

February is African-American History Month, and to celebrate, volunteers will read from The Narrativeof theLife of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave. Will they read the entire thing? Could be! 2-6pm. (Click 'more' for details)February is African-American History Month, and to celebrate, voluntee... Friends Meeting House, 83 Spring St, New Bedford, MA .

Full Moon Owl Prowl for All Ages
Fri 2/3 - Sat 2/4

February is a low point for fun events, so this week I'm including several from state parks and the Audubon sanctuaries. Here are two evenings of full moon hiking and owl-seeking. Owl see you there! Haha. I crack myself up. I slay me. (Click 'more' for details)February is a low point for fun events, so this week I'm including several from ... Broadmoor, 280 Eliot St, Natick, MA .

New England Sled Dog Races
Sat 2/4 - Sun 2/5

Sleds... dogs... Sled dogs. Sled dogs? Sled dogs!! 9am. (Click 'more' for details)Sleds... dogs... Sled dogs. Sled dogs? Sled dogs!! 9am. Appleton Farms, Hamilton, MA .

Science on Screen: Bi...
Mon 1/30

A science expert will talk about the physics of time travel before a showing of Keanu Reeves' breakout film. Most excellent! 7pm. (Click 'more' for details)A science expert will talk about the physics of time travel before a showing of Keanu... Coolidge Corner Theatre, Brookline, MA .

MIT 6.270 Robot Compet...
Wed 2/1

Have you ever seen a robot competition on TV? Come see it live at the college that started it all! This week at MIT, three different courses come to an end with a final competition. This one's the biggest and best, where students build physical robots and have them compete. 7-10pm. (Click 'more' for details)Have you ever seen a robot competition on TV? Come see it live at the college that started i... MIT Room 26-100, Cambridge, MA .

Maslab Robotics Contest
Tue 1/31 - Fri 2/3

Also involving real robots, here's another competition! (Click 'more' for details)Also involving real robots, here's another competition! MIT Room 26-100, Cambridge, MA .

MIT 6.370 Robot Competition
Tue 1/31 - Sat 2/4

This one involves software-only robots that compete in a virtual world. With lasers! OooOo. I took 3rd in this one once with a 'bot called Smurf Killer! Some semifinal events and then the main competition Feb 4th, 5-8pm. (Click 'more' for details)This one involves software-only robots that compete in a virtual world. With lasers!... MIT Kresge Auditorium, Cambridge, MA .

MIT IAP (Independent Activities Period)
Mon 1/9 - Fri 2/3

The school that never sleeps, MIT holds a month of creative classes, lectures, and special events, many of which are open to the public. I'll highlight some of my favs throughout the month, but check their calendar! (Click 'more' for details)The school that never sleeps, MIT holds a month of creative classes, lectures, and special... MIT, Cambridge, MA .

Charm School at MIT
Fri 2/3

Also for geeks, Charm School teaches the unwritten rules of social conduct, like what to do with all those forks at a fancy restaurant. No signup required. 10am-5pm. (Click 'more' for details)Also for geeks, Charm School teaches the unwritten rules of social conduct, like what to do wi... Student Center, MIT, Cambridge, MA .

"A Glorious Fellow": D...
Sat 2/4

What this dickens is this event? It's a special tour of the historic former home of poet Henry Longfellow, focusing on his friendship with Charlie D. Tours at 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm. (Click 'more' for details)What this dickens is this event? It's a special tour of the historic former... Longfellow House, 105 Brattle St, Cambridge, MA .

The Origin of Cellular...
Wed 2/1

What if we could build life in the laboratory? Life! LIIIIIIIIIIIIFE! Well, it's only single cells for now. Find out about it at this lecture. 6pm. (Click 'more' for details)What if we could build life in the laboratory? Life! LIIIIIIIIIIIIFE! Well... Harvard Museum of Natural History, Cambridge, MA .

Harvard Square Winter ...
Sat 2/4

Also in Harvard Square, there's an outdoor chili competition. Details are few, but it's free and presumably you get to eat chili. And they'll have live music. 1-3pm. (Click 'more' for details)Also in Harvard Square, there's an outdoor chili competition. Details are few, but ... Plaza, 30 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA .

Chelmsford Winterfest
Fri 2/3

The winter festivals don't just stop, though. Chelmsford's lasts all weekend, with nighttime snowshoeing, nature walks, sledding & skiing, a chowder festival, and a pancake breakfast. It really makes you hope for snow, doesn't it? (Click 'more' for details)The winter festivals don't just stop, though. Chelmsford's lasts all weekend, with nighttime snowshoeing, natu... Chelmsford, MA .

Mount Washington Valley Ice Festival
Fri 2/3 - Sun 2/5

Do you dare to climb a waterfall of ice? I don't! So prove you're braver at this festival and take on other adventures that all sound insane. Plus they'll have open drytooling. (What is open drytooling?). (Click 'more' for details)Do you dare to climb a waterfall of ice? I don't! So pr... International Mountain Climbing School, North Conway, NH .

Howl at the Moon
Sat 2/4

Here's another of these surreal dinner experiences. Bring cross-country skis or snowshoes and you travel from one bonfire, to another, to another. At each of the 8 sites, a chef serves you food! I really wish that I could see this. (Click 'more' for details)Here's another of these surreal dinner experiences. Bring cross-country skis or snowshoes and you travel from one bonf... Hanover, NH .

Ippi's SuperBowl Ice D...
Sun 2/5

What is ice fishing? You cut a hole in the ice and wait. Is that fun? Well, it would be fun to see it, I'm sure, if not to do it! 8am-1pm. (Click 'more' for details)What is ice fishing? You cut a hole in the ice and wait. Is that fun? Well, it would be fun to see it, I'm sure,... Lynn, MA .

Lunar New Year
Sat 2/4

You shouldn't need an excuse to visit Salem's historic sites, including the wonderfully modern Peabody Essex Museum. But if you do, you'll find lion dancing, drumming, storytelling, and more in this celebration for Chinese New Year. 10:30am-4pm. (Click 'more' for details)You shouldn't need an excuse to visit Salem's histo... Morse Auditorium Peabody Essex Museum, East India Square, 150 Essex St., Salem, MA .

Year of the Dragon at ...
Wed 2/1

The Fox Branch of Arlington's libraries will have "crafts", music, a parade, and food. Yum! 4-7pm. It says "bring a dessert to share"... sounds like it's free to attend. (Click 'more' for details)The Fox Branch of Arlington's libraries will have "crafts", music,... Fox Branch Library, 175 Massachusetts Ave, Arlington, MA .

Chinese New Year Celeb...
Sat 2/4

This is awesome. The local "latino arts center" is having a Chinese New Year celebration too. 3pm. And it's free! (Click 'more' for details)This is awesome. The local "latino arts center" is having a Chinese New Year celebration too. ... 85 W. Newton St., Boston, MA .

Boston Society of Film...
Sat 2/4

Did you know that Boston has a prestigious movie group of nationwide prominence that gives movie awards? They've tried really hard to get celebrities to attend and have mostly failed, but the writer of the film Moneyball will be present. 7pm. (Click 'more' for details)Did you know that Boston has a prestigious movie group of nationwide prominence that gives m... Brattle Theatre, Cambridge, MA .

Love Letters by the Fire
Sat 2/4 - Sat 2/11

This local restaurant will do a reading of the love letters between former US president and Massachusetts boy John Adams and his wife. (This a week early, but they'll repeat the program for Valentine's Day.) 3pm, I think. (Click 'more' for details)This local restaurant will do a reading of the love letters between former ... The Fireplace, 1634 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA .

North Shore CDC Polar ...
Sun 2/5

In Salem and Beverly, insane people dive into the water for charity! Then, they party. 12:30pm, but arrive early if you want to registrer and go in. (Click 'more' for details)In Salem and Beverly, insane people dive into the water for charity! Then, they party. 12:30pm, but arrive earl... Salem, MA .

Temple Con
Fri 2/3 - Sun 2/5

This annual gamers convention turns Steampunk this year! You'll find board games, live roleplaying, and performances such as the Adult-oriented Saucy Puppet Show. (Click 'more' for details)This annual gamers convention turns Steampunk this year! You'll find board games, live roleplaying, and perf... The Crowne Plaza, Warwick, RI .

King and Queen's Champ...
Sat 2/4

Even more geeky is the Society for Creative Anachronism, which recreates the medeival era and stages mock combats. This one's not too far from Boston and features fencing competitions all day! 9am-6pm. (Click 'more' for details)Even more geeky is the Society for Creative Anachronism, which recreates the medeiva... High School, 12 Green Road, Bolton, MA .

Why New England is Awesome
Wed 2/1 - Tue 2/28

Feeling cold? Don't let it get to you. Here's my list of 100 reasons why New England is awesome, especially when compared to those braggy people from California and Texas. Send me an email and let me know what you think! (Click 'more' for details)Feeling cold? Don't let it get to you. Here's my list of 100 reasons why New England is awesome, especially ... New England .

Moonlight Snowshoeing ...
Sat 2/4

Don't stop reading! Below I list a dozen outdoor park events like this guided nighttime showshoe hike. 7-9pm. (Click 'more' for details)Don't stop reading! Below I list a dozen outdoor park events like this gu... Wachusett Meadow, 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton, MA .

Also Fun

Free "Space Junk" at ...
Mon 1/30

The Museum of Science will be holding a free screening of the Omni film "Space Junk" at 6 PM on Mon. 1/30 at the Omni Theater. Tickets will be distributed starting at 5:30 in the lobby, first come first served. Your only obligation is to fill out a short survey afterward, as they are considering adding the film to their Omni roster. It is about 50 minutes long. (Click 'more' for details)The Museum of Science will be holding a free screening of the Omni film "Space Junk" a... Museum of Science, Boston, Boston, MA .

Hike Beneath the Hunge...
Tue 2/7

Here's another guided night hike, with the full moon providing light. I'm sure it will be beautiful, and the Blue Hills are the highest peak within a quick drive from Boston. 6-8pm. (Click 'more' for details)Here's another guided night hike, with the full moon providing light. I'm sure it will be beautiful,... Blue Hills, Canton, MA .

Follow the Snow Moon
Tue 2/7

And here's another. This time the hike goes to "Bear Hill Tower", which sounds like it most likely provides a great view. 5-6:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)And here's another. This time the hike goes to "Bear Hill Tower", which sounds like it most... Middlesex Fells, Rt 28, Stoneham, MA .

Guided Snowshoe Walk
Sun 2/5

More snowshowing, this time in the daytime, but it's in Boston, so it's accessible if you don't have a car! 12:30pm-1:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)More snowshowing, this time in the daytime, but it's in Boston, so it's acc... Boston Nature Center, 500 Walk Hill St, Mattapan, MA .

Full Storm Moon
Tue 2/7

And here's another. Come on guys, make up your minds. Is it a storm moon or a hunger moon? What does that even mean, anyway? 5pm. (Click 'more' for details)And here's another. Come on guys, make up your minds. Is it a storm moon or a hunger m... Manatuck Preserve, Barnes Road, Stonington, CT .

Backyard Sugaring
Sat 2/4

I would love to see maple syrup being tapped from trees, boiled down, and given out as samples! 1-3:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)I would love to see maple syrup being tapped from trees, boiled ... Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA .

Tap a Tree
Sun 2/5

And here's a similar event. Wait, we're just tapping the tree at this point? Do we get to sample? 1:30-2:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)And here's a similar event. Wait, we're just tapping the tree at this point? ... Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill St, Sharon, MA .

Groundhog Day at Druml...
Thu 2/2

This one also involves tracking animals in the snow, if there is any. 9:30am-4pm. (Click 'more' for details)This one also involves tracking animals in the snow, if there is any. 9:30a... Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA .

Owl Moon
Tue 2/7

Although this one's aimed at kids, strolling in the night trying to find owls sounds like a terrific adventure. 7-8:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)Although this one's aimed at kids, strolling in the night trying to find ... Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA .

The Art of Nature: Ani...
Sat 2/4

More animal tracks... 1-3pm. (Click 'more' for details)More animal tracks... 1-3pm. Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield, MA .

Eagles and Owls
Sun 2/5

Eagles and Owls. Owls and Eagles. Owls! Eagles! You might see some live ones on this guided tour. 8am-12pm. (Click 'more' for details)Eagles and Owls. Owls and Eagles. Owls! Eagles! You might see some live ones on this gui... Ipswich River, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield, MA .

Bald Eagles of the Mer...
Sun 2/5

Find eagles, both bald and those wearing toupees on this guided tour. 9am-12pm. (Click 'more' for details)Find eagles, both bald and those wearing toupees on this guided tour. ... Joppa Flats, 1 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport, MA .

Full Moon Snowshoe Hik...
Tue 2/7

I love these guided night tours, and February is a slow month, so I'm listing a bunch of these events. 6-8:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)I love these guided night tours, and February is a sl... Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 West Mountain Road, Lenox, MA .

Snowshoeing by Moonlig...
Sun 2/5

Here's another. 7-8:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)Here's another. 7-8:30pm. Wachusett Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton, MA .

The Global Forests of ...
Mon 2/6

Did you know that the Arnold Arboretum is open all winter? When it snows, they plow the paths! Here's a lecture on ancient forests and global warming. 7-8:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)Did you know that the Arnold Arboretum is open all win... Hunnewell Building at the Arnold Arboretum, 125 Arborway, Boston, MA .

Salem's So Sweet Chocolate & Ice Sculpture Festival
Sat 2/4 - Tue 2/14

This is more of an exhibit of ice sculptures and some commercial discounts than a real event, but there is a wine tasting Feb 10th. And besides, do you really need an excuse to visit historic Salem in the off-season? (Click 'more' for details)This is more of an exhibit of ice sculptures and some commercial discounts than a... Salem, MA .

USS Constitution Museum Model Show
Sat 2/4 - Sat 3/24

This model show is free, but they haven't listed what times to go to actually meet some of the model builders and do a workshop. So, call. Otherwise, it's basically an exhibit open all day every day. (Click 'more' for details)This model show is free, but they hav... USS Constitution Museum, Charlestown Navy Yard, Building 22, Charlestown, MA .

Burr Co-Op Winter Conc...
Sat 2/4

This looks very much like a kids thing, but we take any "festivals" we can get in the cold months. 10am-12pm. (Click 'more' for details)This looks very much like a kids thing, but we take any "festivals" ... Newton Cultural Center, 225 Nevada St, Newtonvllle, MA .

BITAHR 2012 Film Forum: Fighting Trafficking Through Film
Fri 2/3 - Sun 2/5

Slavery still exists in the world, and as much as I would like to avoid this depressing event, that wouldn't be right. It's far too important. Go and learn, go and help. (Click 'more' for details)Slavery still exists in the world, and as much as I would like to avoid this d... Boston, MA .

Inspiration Series: An...
Thu 2/2

Here's an inspirational talk by an Arab-American leader who's worked with young people and refugees. 6pm. (Click 'more' for details)Here's an inspirational talk by an Arab-American leader ... Center for Arabic Culture, 191 Highland Avenue, 6B, Somerville, MA .

After Kim Jong Il: The...
Thu 2/2

And here's one about North Korea. 12:30-2pm. (Click 'more' for details)And here's one about North Korea. 12:30-2pm. 1730 Cambridge St., Cambridge, MA .

Boston Tea Party Ship...
Mon 2/13

This is not an event, but I'm so excited that a Boston Tea Party museum is opening that I am helping them advertise that they are seeking colonial actors. A re-enactment is a great way to learn history! They open this summer. (Click 'more' for details)This is not an event, but I'm so excited that a Boston Tea Party museum is opening that I am helping them adver... Boston, MA .

Performance

IAP Math Music Recita...
Tue 1/31

MIT's math department is holding a concert. That's... good? 3:30-5:45pm. It appears to be free. (Click 'more' for details)MIT's math department is holding a concert. That's... good? 3:30-5:45pm. It appears to be fre... MIT, Killian Hall, Cambridge, MA .

Gangsters in Love
Sat 2/4

Murder myster dinner theatre shows vary. It's an amazing concept but it's possible to do it well, or poorly. This one has a mafia them. Sounds like fun and it's Valentine's Day oriented! 5pm. (Click 'more' for details)Murder myster dinner theatre shows vary. It's an amazing concept but it's po... Corinne's Banquets, 1593 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket, RI .

Travel

Auburn Winter Festival
Fri 1/27 - Sun 2/5

These outdoorsy snow sports events take place all over the region. (Click 'more' for details)These outdoorsy snow sports events take place all over the region. Auburn, ME .

Caribou Winter Carnival
Wed 2/1 - Tue 2/28

Can it be a festival if it spans 4 weeks? I think we'll take what we can get in Maine in the winter. Snowmobile racing, broomball tourney, snow sculptures, and more. (Click 'more' for details)Can it be a festival if it spans 4 weeks? I think we'll take what we can get in Maine in the winter. Snowmobile... Caribou, ME .

Burlington Winter Fest...
Sat 2/4

This one is more like it, involving a penguin plunge and lots of snow activities. (Click 'more' for details)This one is more like it, involving a penguin plunge and lots of snow activities. Burlington, VT .

January 23-31, 2012: Comedy Fest, Clare Danes, Chinese New Year, Snow & Ice Sculpting, Sled Dogs, & Subway Breakdancing

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:08:07 -0500

This Week in Review

This week, please pay special attention to the private subway breakdancing that I want to set up for Events INSIDERs. You need to email me to find out the place and time.

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

-Johnny

The Week in Weird

Magners Comedy Festival - tix giveaway, interview
Fri 1/27 - Sun 1/29

I've been to the Magners Comedy Contest -- and it's fantastic. They bring in comedians of national talent, who then compete. And you can drink! I'm giving away 4 tickets for the Upright Citizens Brigade, Thursday, 1/26 at the Wilbur Theatre. Email johnny@eventsINSIDER.com to win and click to see my interview with executive producer John Tobin! (Click 'more' for details)I've been to the Magners Comedy Contest -- and it's fantastic. They bring in comedians... Boston, MA .

Hasty Pudding Woman o...
Thu 1/26

Speaking of national celebrities, act now and maybe you can get tickets for the Woman of the Year Roast on this Thursday. Or if not, you can still catch the parade! Actress Clare Danes is this year's winner of the theatre troupe at the school that has no drama department. The parade begins at 3:15pm, starting at the Inn at Harvard in Harvard Square and going to the Pudding Theatre. Then the roast at 12 Holyoke Street at 5pm, with a preview of the Hasty Pudding theatre season afterwards. (Click 'more' for details)Speaking of national celebrities, act now and maybe you can get tickets for the Woman of the Ye... 12 Holyoke St, Cambridge, MA .

Rock of Ages - tix giveaway
Fri 1/27 - Sun 1/29

I also have four tickets to give away for the Jan 27 show, at 8pm, of this Tony Award-nominated rock musical from the 1980s. Winners will also get tickets to the super secret afterparty where they could meet the cast! Email johnny@eventsINSIDER.com to win. (Click 'more' for details)I also have four tickets to give away for the Jan 27 show, at 8pm, of th... Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St, Worcester, MA .

Chinese New Year Para...
Sun 1/29

This is the Chinatown festival where different lion dance clubs go door to door eating lettuce and throwing around fireworks. They go to every door to accept these "offering", and the ground ends up literally covered with lettuce and fireworks shells! This is not the festival with stages for music and dance. That's one's in August. 11am-5pm. (Click 'more' for details)This is the Chinatown festival where different lion dance clubs go door to door eati... Harrison Ave & Essex St, Boston, MA .

Snow Sculpting Competition
Fri 1/27 - Sun 1/29

This snow sculpture, in New Hampshire, will have real professionals. Pretty neat. Oh, and amateurs can join in, too! Each day has a different location. (Click 'more' for details)This snow sculpture, in New Hampshire, will have real professionals. Pretty neat. Oh, and amat... Black Mountain, Jackson, NH .

Newburyport Winter Ca...
Sat 1/28

This festival looks more like a winner! There's no shopping mall involved. They just got a little confused naming the local park. It features horse-drawn hayrides, skating on the pond, sledding, and a "human dog sled race"! Let's hope they fix their website as the date gets closer. (Click 'more' for details)This festival looks more like a winner! There's no shopping mall inv... Bartlett Mall (which is really a park), Newburyport, MA .

Sled Dog Derby
Sat 1/28 - Sun 1/29

While you're in the area -- perhaps going skiing? -- why not check out this sled dog race? (Click 'more' for details)While you're in the area -- perhaps going skiing? -- why not check out this sled dog race? Tamworth, NH .

Evening Snowshoe Adve...
Fri 1/27

What's better than snowshoeing at night and looking up at the stars? I can't think of anything. If there's no snow, the event will become a hike. But do they rent snowshoes? 4-5:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)What's better than snowshoeing at night and looking up at the stars? ... Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St, Natick, MA .

Maple Syrup Tree Tapp...
Thu 1/26

I really want to see this! They tap actual maple trees and you get to help! 3pm. (Click 'more' for details)I really want to see this! They tap actual maple trees and you get to help! 3... Anderson Hall, 200 College Avenue, Medford, MA .

Mystic River Polar Pl...
Sat 1/28

Diving into freezing water to raise money for charity is pretty daft. But this one... doesn't involve a charity? 9:10am. Pre-register if you want to go in. (Click 'more' for details)Diving into freezing water to raise money for charity is pretty daft. But this on... Mary O'Malley Waterfront Park, Chelsea, MA .

MIT IAP (Independent Activities Period)
Mon 1/9 - Fri 2/3

Head of the Zeisinger...
Sun 1/29

For example, MIT students will make their own boats out of cardboard and you get to see 'em race. Or sink. 3-5pm. (Click 'more' for details)For example, MIT students will make their own boats out of card... Zesinger Center Pool Deck, MIT, 120 Vassar St, Cambridge, MA .

MidWinter Celebration...
Wed 1/25

Do you like folk dancing? Do you like pretending to take part in old timey celebrations of the solar year? Check out this song, dance, and storytelling. It's free! The dancing will be pretty cool; I have seen it. 7:30-9:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)Do you like folk dancing? Do you like pretending to take part in old timey celeb... Church, 1326 Washington St, West Newton, MA .

Teen Birding at Druml...
Sat 1/28

Birdwatchers like to track the fluctuations in bird populations over time. Now you can help! Here's one for kids... (Click 'more' for details)Birdwatchers like to track the fluctuations in bird populations over time. N... Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA .

Superbowl of Birding ...
Sat 1/28

... And one for people of all ages. You get to "compete" in teams to find the most birds. Everyone welcome. 5am-7pm. (Click 'more' for details)... And one for people of all ages. You get to "compete" in teams to find the ... Joppa Flats Education Center, Newburyport, MA .

St. Moritz Winter Won...
Sat 1/28

This is a hike to an abandoned carnival site for winter sports. 1pm. (Click 'more' for details)This is a hike to an abandoned carnival site for winter sports. 1pm. Shea Rink, 651 Willard St, Quincy, MA .

Decordova Park Snowsh...
Sat 1/28

Yes! You can rent snowshoes if you don't already have 'em for this tour. The DeCordova has an entire park with dozens of sculptures. If there's snow, I bet it's a great excuse to take a tour! 10am and 12:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)Yes! You can rent snowshoes if you don't already have 'em for this tour. The DeCordova has an ... 51 Sandy Pond Rd, Lincoln, MA .

Winter Star Search
Fri 1/27

Hot chocolate will keep you warm at this event where you'll get to use telescopes to look at the stars. 6:30-9:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)Hot chocolate will keep you warm at this event where you'll get to use t... Stony Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, 108 North St, Norfolk, MA .

Winter Tracking Hike ...
Sun 1/29

I love this event! You get to track animals in the snow. 1:30-3:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)I love this event! You get to track animals in the snow. 1:30-3:30pm. Breakheart Reservation, Saugus, MA .

Amherst Railway Society - Big Railroad Hobby Show
Sat 1/28 - Sun 1/29

Okay, okay, here's some indoor stuff for you wimps. Way out west is a model train show. They hook together dozens of privately built tracks to create one huge railroad track system. (Click 'more' for details)Okay, okay, here's some indoor s... Eastern States Exposition, 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA .

Mary Johnson - An Unq...
Sun 1/29

Mary Johnson was a nun working for Mother Theresa, and now she is an outspoken author telling tales of how it wasn't the perfect life. Come join the secular humanists for this book talk. 1:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)Mary Johnson was a nun working for Mother Theresa, and now she is an outspoken author telling tal... 12 Eliot St, Cambridge, MA .

Experience the Way of...
Sun 1/29

Also at MIT, as part of their annual arts month, learn new social skills at this formal tea ceremony. 2-3pm. Free but RSVP in advance. (Click 'more' for details)Also at MIT, as part of their annual arts mont... Mezzanine Lounge W20 (Student Center), 84 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA .

Tour of Wallace Astro...
Fri 1/27

I don't know how open this one is to the wider community, but you'd better register immediately. It's a tour of a telescope! And if you can't get to Westford, they are offering rides. 7-11pm. (Click 'more' for details)I don't know how open this one is to the wider community, but you'd better register immediately. It's a tour ... Westford, MA .

Also Fun

Subway Dance!
Sat 1/21 - Wed 2/15

There's a breakdancing group in Boston that is willing to set up our own subway dance, if I can get a dozen people to RSVP. They hop and spin and use the subway car framework for dancing. It's amazing and I've seen it twice randomly. This is my attempt to share it with you by setting up a scheduled time. Note: I will not be announcing this publicly. To attend, you MUST write me and say you're interested. Email johnny@eventsINSIDER.com. (Click 'more' for details)There's a breakdancing group in Boston that is willing to set up our own subway dance, if I can get a dozen people to R... Cambridge, MA .

MIT Science Fiction M...
Sat 1/28

Here's a sci-fi marathon for just $4! It includes Cowboys & Aliens, Inception, Terminator 2, and the original The Thing. 7pm. (Click 'more' for details)Here's a sci-fi marathon for just $4! It includes Cowboys & Aliens, Inception, Te... 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA .

Science on Screen: Bi...
Mon 1/30

A science expert will talk about the physics of time travel before a showing of Keanu Reeves' breakout film. Totally excellent! 7pm. (Click 'more' for details)A science expert will talk about the physics of time travel before a showing of Keanu... Coolidge Corner Theatre, Brookline, MA .

Who's Afraid of Post-...
Thu 1/26

February is African-American Heritage Month. Check out this book talk by author Touré. 2012; 6pm. (Click 'more' for details)February is African-American Heritage Month. Check out this book talk by author Touré. 2012; 6pm. Boston, MA .

Volcanoes on the Verg...
Wed 1/25

Volcanoes are awesome because stuff is blowing up, big time! Come learn about it at the Museum of Science, Boston. 7pm. (Click 'more' for details)Volcanoes are awesome because stuff is blowing up, big time! Come learn about it at th... Museum of Science, Boston, Boston, MA .

Fire & Ice Days
Sat 1/28 - Sun 1/29

They're harvesting ice! And there are horse-drawn sleigh rides, hot cider, and all the usual awesome live re-enactments that make OSV my favorite historic destination. (Click 'more' for details)They're harvesting ice! And there are horse-drawn sleigh rides, hot cider, and all the usu... Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge, MA .

Beautiful Types: Tran...
Sat 1/28

While this is not a re-enactment, this lecture includes many of the famous authors who are buried at Mt. Auburn Cemetery that were involved in Transcendentalism, the philosophical movement. 3-4pm. (Click 'more' for details)While this is not a re-enactment, this lecture includes many of the famo... Mt Auburn Cemetery, 580 Mt Auburn St, Cambridge, MA .

Poetic Convergence at...
Sun 1/29

Also combining art and dead people is this poetry event at Forest Hills Cemetery. 2pm. (Click 'more' for details)Also combining art and dead people is this poetry event at Forest Hills Cemetery. 2pm. Forest Hills Cemetery, Boston, MA .

Groundhog Day Celebra...
Sat 1/28

Oh, Groundhog Day Extravaganza. You had me at "groundhog obstacle course". Plus nature hikes, snow sculptures, and more! 1-4pm. (Click 'more' for details)Oh, Groundhog Day Extravaganza. You had me at "groundhog obs... Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield, MA .

Annual Robert Burns C...
Sat 1/28

Robert Burns was the poet laureate of Scotland. A Scottish community event, they'll speak the strangest dialect of English and serve "neeps, tatties, and haggis". They'll do a haggis presentation and toast, but it's basically a social dinner, with no performance. (Click 'more' for details)Robert Burns was the poet laureate of Scotland. A Scottish communi... J. Timothy's Taverne, 143 New Britain Ave, Plainville, CT .

Kimball Farm Horse-Draw Sleigh Rides
Sat 1/21 - Thu 3/15

If there's snow, you've got sleigh rides in Haverhill! Otherwise, hay rides. Hey... rides! Thanks, Kimball Farm! (Click 'more' for details)If there's snow, you've got sleigh rides in Haverhill! ... Kimball Farm Corn Maze, 780 East Broadway, Haverhill, MA .

Free Community Skatin...
Sat 1/28

The skating will be free, and they'll hand out hot cocoa. Yum! If no ice, backup date is Feb 11. (Click 'more' for details)The skating will be free, and they'll hand out hot cocoa. Yum! If no ice, backup date is Fe... 166 John Scott Blvd., Norton, MA .

Winter Carnival Go Gr...
Fri 1/27

I don't really get why serving a free breakfast helps to promote commuting instead of driving. But hey. Free food! The bad news? It's 7am-9am. (Click 'more' for details)I don't really get why serving a free breakfast helps to promote commuting in... Holyoke Center, 1350 Mass. Ave., Cambridge, MA .

Taste of Chocolate Festival
Fri 1/27 - Sun 1/29

While this event is mainly an excuse to get you to eat at an upscale restaurant, one of them will have a chocolate murder mystery theatre show! (Click 'more' for details)While this event is mainly an excuse to get you to eat at an upscale restaurant, one of them will have a ... Cambridge, MA .

AIDS Action's Dance P...
Thu 1/26

This used to be a dance marathon and now it's only a dance party. But it still benefits AIDS research. 9pm. (Click 'more' for details)This used to be a dance marathon and now it's only a dance party. But it stil... Marriott Hotel, 110 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA .

Performance

Green Eyes
Wed 1/18 - Sun 2/12

This sexy Tennessee Williams play takes place in an actual hotel room! Click for our review, 4 out of 5 stars! (Click 'more' for details)This sexy Tennessee Williams play takes place in an actual hotel room! Click for our review, 4 out of 5... Ames Hotel, 1 Court St, Boston, MA .

IAP Math Music Recita...
Tue 1/31

Travel

Camden WinterFest
Sat 1/28

Ice skating, ice sculptures... Plus kids activities and hot food and drink. "All day.". (Click 'more' for details)Ice skating, ice sculptures... Plus kids activities and hot food and drink. "All day.". Camden, ME .

Norway SnowFest
Sat 1/28 - Sun 1/29

Ooo! It's snowmobile racing. (Click 'more' for details)Ooo! It's snowmobile racing. Norway, ME .

Auburn Winter Festival
Fri 1/27 - Sun 2/5

These outdoorsy snow sports events take place all over the region. (Click 'more' for details)These outdoorsy snow sports events take place all over the region. Auburn, ME .

Bennington Winter Fes...
Sat 1/28

Gee, with a pancake breakfast, penguin plunge, ice sculptures, and a lot more, this sounds great. 8am-11pm. (Click 'more' for details)Gee, with a pancake breakfast, penguin plunge, ice sculptures, and a lot more, this sounds great. 8am-11pm.... Bennington, VT .

North Bennington Peng...
Sat 1/28

Dive into freezing water. Sure, why not? (Click 'more' for details)Dive into freezing water. Sure, why not? North Bennington, VT .

January 17-24, 2012: Historical Re-enactments, Science Lectures, Chinese New Year, Ice Carving, and Snodeo!

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:00:44 -0500

This Week in Review

We've finally gotten some snow in Boston. Don't complain about the weather! It turns out that we have awesome weather in New England, and see my list of 100 Reasons Why New England is awesome in my New England Manifesto!

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

-Johnny

The Week in Weird

Edwards Twins at Stoneham Theatre
Fri 1/13 - Sat 1/21

Do you like impersonations? Two brothers impersonate famous women! And I've got 2 pairs of tickets to give away for any date, your choice, Jan 20 or 21 at 8pm. Email johnny@eventsINSIDER.com to win! (Click 'more' for details)Do you like impersonations? Two brothers impersonate famous women! And I've got 2 pa... Stoneham Theatre, Stoneham, MA .

Edgar Allan Poe Birth...
Thu 1/19

Compete in Poe trivia, see Poe re-enacted, and hear a lecture about his life at this birthday party for everyone's favorite Boston author! 7pm. (Click 'more' for details)Compete in Poe trivia, see Poe re-enacted, and hear a lecture about his life at this birth... Boston Public Library, Boston, MA .

Welcome to Our House'...
Sun 1/22

They don't have Poe, but here's another re-enactment at the home of the author of Little Women. Or as I like to say it, "Leetle Weemen". They do these tours every month year-round and during school vacations. 4:45-5:45pm. (Click 'more' for details)They don't have Poe, but here's another re-enactment at the home of the autho... Orchard House, 399 Lexington Road, Concord, MA .

Strange New Worlds: F...
Wed 1/18

Also Poe-less, the Museum of Natural History at Harvard sponsors talks after hours, many of which are free. Here's one on the scientific search for life beyond Earth. 6pm. (Click 'more' for details)Also Poe-less, the Museum of Natural History at Harvard sponsors talks aft... HAH-vid Museem a' Nat'ral Hist'ry, Cambridge, MA .

Science Social: A Day...
Thu 1/19

What's better than exploring Pompeii, the new exhibit at the Museum of Science that features the ancient city covered (and preserved) by volcanic ash? A social with food and music! Would the dead appreciate being remembered? I hope so. 6pm. (Click 'more' for details)What's better than exploring Pompeii, the new exhibit at the Museum of Science that fe... Museum of Science, Boston, Boston, MA .

Wachusett Mountain Po...
Sat 1/21

Brrrr! Insane people will dive into cold water to raise money for charity at Wachusett Mountain, the ski resort. 1-3pm. (Click 'more' for details)Brrrr! Insane people will dive into cold water to raise money for charity at Wachusett Mou... Wachusett Mountain, Princeton, MA .

MIT IAP (Independent Activities Period)
Mon 1/9 - Fri 2/3

Annual Hummus Taste O...
Thu 1/19

Also at MIT: free food! Yum! 12-1:30pm. Preceded by hummus making events on Jan 18. (Click 'more' for details)Also at MIT: free food! Yum! 12-1:30pm. Preceded by hummus making events on Jan 18. MIT, Cambridge, MA .

Free Star Parties
Sun 1/22

Bundle up! A real astronomer will bring a telescope and show you the stars. 7-10pm. (Click 'more' for details)Bundle up! A real astronomer will bring a telescope and show you the s... Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, 293 Moose Hill St, Sharon, MA .

Solar Dynamics Observ...
Thu 1/19

Harvard's observatory is doing a public speech about sunspots and such. I've been to one of these and it was fun! 7:30pm. Free. Free parking. (Click 'more' for details)Harvard's observatory is doing a public speech about sunspots and such. I've been ... Observatory, 60 Garden St., Cambridge, MA .

Family Owling-An Owl ...
Sat 1/21

Although this is oriented towards kids, everyone is welcome. They'll show you real owls indoors, then go for a walk and try to hear and spot some! Then hot cocoa. 4-6pm. (Click 'more' for details)Although this is oriented towards kids, everyone is welcome. They'll show you real o... Blue Hills Trailside Museum, Milton, MA .

Chinese New Year of t...
Sat 1/21

The Museum of Natural History and nearby Peabody Museum both have Chinese New Year events, but they are very much for real kids, not big kids like me. 9am-5pm. (Click 'more' for details)The Museum of Natural History and nearby Peabody Museum both have Chinese N... Harvard Museum of Natural History, Cambridge, MA .

Also Fun

Chinese New Year Flower Street on the Greenway
Thu 1/19 - Sun 1/22

This is an event? They're going to... Sell flowers? There has to be more to it? 9am-6pm. Free. (Click 'more' for details)This is an event? They're going to... Sell flowers? There has ... Harrison Ave & Essex St, Boston, MA .

Winterfest Weekends at Fruitlands Museum
Sat 1/21 - Sat 2/18

Is there snow? This museum has a slope called the "OMG Hill"! It's not really a "festival" if it lasts 6 weeks, but they'll have bonfires, sledding, ice skating, and snowshoes. How about rentals? Saturdays & Sundays, 11am-4pm. (Click 'more' for details)Is there snow? This museum has a slope called the "OMG Hill"! It's not r... 102 Prospect Hill Road, Harvard, MA .

Healthy Family Expo a...
Sun 1/22

Also for kids, here's a health expo at a sports/playground center. The expo is free, but pay to try the giant trampolines. Ooo!! Trampolines! (Click 'more' for details)Also for kids, here's a health expo at a sports/playground center. The exp... Sky Zone, 69 Norman Street, Suite 1B, Everett, MA .

Hooked on Who
Fri 1/20 - Sun 1/22

I love Doctor Who, at least I used to before I gave up TV for good. Here's a mini-marathon at the Brattle. Unfortunately, if they are doing anything social, like a costume contest or live music, they aren't saying in their description. (Click 'more' for details)I love Doctor Who, at least I used to before I gave up TV for good. Here's a mini-marathon at the Brattl... Brattle Theatre, Cambridge, MA .

Concord Museum is Fre...
Sun 1/22

The Concord museum is free on Sundays this month, and a Pulitzer-prize winning author and historian put together this exhibition on Concord's 125th Anniversary. 1-4pm. (Click 'more' for details)The Concord museum is free on Sundays this month, and a Pulitzer-prize winning author and histor... Concord Museum, Concord, MA .

Ice Day
Sun 1/22

In the old-timey days, before refigeration, they used to cut out blocks of ice and try to store them through the summer! In this free event you can watch 'em do it. 9am-2pm. Rain date 7 days later. (Click 'more' for details)In the old-timey days, before refigeration, they used to cut out blocks of ice and try to store th... Kezar Lake's Horse Beach, North Sutton, NH .

Greater Boston Antiques Festival
Sat 1/21 - Sun 1/22

And if you have any cash left after buying holiday gifts, you can spend it on old stuff. Um, antiques. Yea, we'll call them antiques and charge double... (Click 'more' for details)And if you have any cash left after buying holiday gifts, you can spend it on o... Shriner's Auditorium, Wilmington, MA .

Performance

God of Carnage - our review
Fri 1/6 - Sun 2/5

The Tony and Olivier Award-winning New York smash hit by the author of Art comes to the Huntington! Click for our review, 4 out of 5 stars! (Click 'more' for details)The Tony and Olivier Award-winning New York smash hit by the author of Art comes to the Huntington! Click for... Boston MA .

As You Like It at the A.R.T
Wed 1/18 - Sun 1/29

One of my favorite Shakespeare comedies comes to Harvard's A.R.T. (Click 'more' for details)One of my favorite Shakespeare comedies comes to Harvard's A.R.T. Loeb Drama Center, 64 Brattle St, Cambridge, MA .

Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival
Tue 1/24 - Sun 1/29

This is the regional portion of the nation's foremost college-level theater festival. I went one year and it's surprisingly fun. (Click 'more' for details)This is the regional portion of the nation's foremos... University of New Hampshire, Durham, Durham, NH .

Travel

Things That Go Bump i...
Sat 1/21

Go exploring for owls and look at the stars through a telescope! Sounds awesome. 7:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)Go exploring for owls and look at the stars through a telescope! Sounds awesome. 7:30pm. Hillstead Museum, Farmington, CT .

Snodeo
Thu 1/19 - Sat 1/21

With a parade, and an entire "rodeo" on ice, I'd love to see this someday! (Click 'more' for details)With a parade, and an entire "rodeo" on ice, I'd love to see this someday! Rangeley Lake, Rangeley, ME .

Maine Lakes Mushers Bowl
Sat 1/21 - Mon 1/23

Dog sledding, snowmobile rides, horse-drawn carriage rides... Yum. (Click 'more' for details)Dog sledding, snowmobile rides, horse-drawn carriage rides... Yum. Bridgton, ME .

Stowe Winter Carnival
Wed 1/18 - Sun 1/29

Ice carving competition -- I'd love to try that! And snow volleyball... Awesome. (Click 'more' for details)Ice carving competition -- I'd love to try that! And snow volleyball... Awesome. Stowe, VT .

Jan 9-17, 2012: Chinese & Japanese New Year, Model Trains, Full Moon Hike, Poe & Thoreau, Nuclear Reactor Tour, & Martin Luther King Day

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 18:28:34 -0500

This Week in Review

I'm working on a big change to Events INSIDER. Starting next week, I'll have both a newsletter (which is what you're seeing now, the weekly summary of my top 10 picks and a reminder to check out the rest on the website) and an actual blog (where I can throw theatre & restaurant reviews and talk about fun topics 2-3 times a week). I know there is something wrong with the formatting in the emails and I will try to fix that. Send me your feedback & thoughts to johnny@eventsINSIDER.com, and thanks!

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

-Johnny

The Week in Weird

Chinese New Year at F...
Sat 1/14

Once I joined a group of people watching a gorilla at the Franklin Park Zoo. We saw it pick up some poop. Nooooo!!! We all shouted. Yep, it ate it. The Franklin Park Zoo is open all winter, and now they're adding a Chinese New Year celebration! 11am-3pm. (Click 'more' for details)Once I joined a group of people watching a gorilla at the Franklin Park Zoo. We saw it pick up... Franklin Park Zoo, Boston, MA .

Japanese New Year
Sun 1/15

In college terms, if China is a prideful frat boy, Japan is that sexy cheerleader in your computer class. You can also find Japan's new year at the Boston Children's Museum, with a lion dance, calligraphy, drumming, and dinner! 3pm. (Click 'more' for details)In college terms, if China is a prideful frat boy, Japan is that sexy cheerleader in your comp... Boston Children's Museum, Boston, MA .

Wenham Museum's Model...
Sat 1/14

Are trains still cool? I thought airplanes and spaceships were more the thing! This show has tons of displays and 75 dealer tables, plus half off admission at the Wenham Museum itself. 10am-4pm. (Click 'more' for details)Are trains still cool? I thought airplanes and spaceships were more the thing! This ... Buker School, School Street, Wenham, MA .

A Twelfth Night Revel...
Sat 1/14

The Society for Creative Anachronism costumes up for this 1276 re-enactment... with feasting, and "games of strength and cunning", whatever that means. There aren't too many SCA events close to Boston, so enjoy! 12-9pm. (Click 'more' for details)The Society for Creative Anachronism costumes up for this 1276 re-enactment... with feas... Church, 102 Green St, Fairhaven, MA .

Full Moon Hike
Mon 1/9

I'd love to sneak up on this full moon guided hike dressed as Bigfoot! 5-7pm. (Click 'more' for details)I'd love to sneak up on this full moon guided hike dressed as Bigfoot! 5-7pm. Freetown State Forest, Slab Bridge Road, Assonet, MA .

Arisia Fan Convention
Fri 1/13 - Mon 1/16

Are you Smurfy? Meet the creators of the smurfs at Arisia, the fan convention for science fiction, anime, comics, roleplaying, and more. They'll have parties, panels, vendors, and a costume ball. It's run by volunteers, but it's still $60 to attend, and SuperMegaFest was only $25. Hmm. (Click 'more' for details)Are you Smurfy? Meet the creators of the smurfs at Arisia, the fan convention for science f... Westin Waterfront Hotel, Boston, MA .

MIT Mystery Hunt
Fri 1/13

The MIT Mystery Hunt means running all over campus chasing down clues. I tried it once and thought it was too challenging to be fun as well, but that's why you join a big team, I guess. My suggestion? Follow the organizers as they hide the coin. (Click 'more' for details)The MIT Mystery Hunt means running all over campus chasing down clues. I tried it once and thought it was too cha... MIT, Cambridge, MA .

Poe at Gore Estate
Sat 1/14

I've seen this re-enactment and it's wonderfully spooky! Rob Vellela portrays Edgar Allan Poe reading stories at this historic home. Trust me, you've got to see this! 4pm and 5:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)I've seen this re-enactment and it's wonderfully spooky! Rob Vellela portrays Edgar Allan Poe reading ... 52 Gore Street, Waltham, MA .

Civil Disobedience fo...
Sun 1/15

Civil disobedience was the key phrase for Henry David Thoreau, the american author, just like it was for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr! Seeing a re-enactment of Thoreau is a great way to learn youse some hist'ry. Then a short walk and hot chocolate in the art museum. 12:30-3pm. (Click 'more' for details)Civil disobedience was the key phrase for Henry David Thoreau, the american author, ... Walden Pond, 915 Walden St, Concord, MA .

Martin Luther King Da...
Mon 1/16

Old Sturbridge Village has dozens of historical re-enactors -- a whole town full of them! For MLK Day they have a storyteller re-enacting "Honoring a Slave Heroine: The Mumbet Story". Trust me, OSV is always worth a visit! (Click 'more' for details)Old Sturbridge Village has dozens of historical re-enactors -- a whole town fu... 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Sturbridge, MA .

Martin Luther King Da...
Mon 1/16

Also, the Museum of Fine Arts is free on Martin Luther King Day. Oh, yeah. That's some FINE lookin' aht! (Click 'more' for details)Also, the Museum of Fine Arts is free on Martin Luther King Day. Oh, yeah. That's some FINE ... Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA .

Martin Luther King Jr...
Mon 1/16

Make a real WWII battleship your playground! Battleship Cove is the world's largest naval museum and for MLK Day, they'll play a film and run scavenger hunts. Also, there's a carousel, plus a helicopter, a submarine, and more! I called to confirm this. (Click 'more' for details)Make a real WWII battleship your playground! Battleship Cove is the world's largest naval museum and for ML... Fall River, MA .

World of Wellesley Ma...
Mon 1/16

I don't really get this one, which is why I put it last. You eat breakfast and there's a lecture by famous professors. $25. 8:30-10am. (Click 'more' for details)I don't really get this one, which is wh... Sun Life Financial, One Sun Life Executive Park, Building 3, Floor 1, Wellesley, MA .

MIT IAP (Independent Activities Period)
Mon 1/9 - Fri 2/3

Tour of the MIT Nuclear Reactor
Wed 1/11 - Fri 1/27

I took this tour of MIT's nuclear reactor and asked if I could press any of the buttons. They said no. How about just a light switch? Also no. I wore lead underpants. (Click 'more' for details)I took this tour of MIT's nuclear reactor and asked if I could press any of the buttons. They said... MIT, Cambridge, MA .

Second Fridays
Fri 1/13

Did you say MIT Rocket Team? And it's free? Rockets! Rockets! Rockets! MIT has a free evening the second Friday of every month. 5-8pm. (Click 'more' for details)Did you say MIT Rocket Team? And it's free? Rockets! Rockets! Rockets! MIT has a free... MIT Museum, 265 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA .

Fire & Ice in Fay...
Sat 1/14

Ice skating if it's cold enough for ice, building snowmen if there's snow (there won't be), and a bonfire (any weather!) And it's free! (Click 'more' for details)Ice skating if it's cold enough for ice, building snowmen if there's snow (there won't be), and a bo... Fay Park, Littleton, MA .

Winter Animal Trackin...
Sat 1/14

I love these outdoor park events in the winter. Here's one where you can track animals... And eat them! Yum! Um, okay, just the tracking. 12-3pm. (Click 'more' for details)I love these outdoor park events in the winter. Here's one where you can track animals... And eat ... Rocky Woods, Medfield, MA .

Owl Moon
Tue 1/10

And here's another where you get to explore the night looking for owls. This one's more kids-oriented. I'm sure it's a hoot! Get it? Hoot? 5:30-7pm. (Click 'more' for details)And here's another where you get to explore the night looking for owls. This one's more kids-oriented. I'm sure... Appleton Farms, Hamilton, MA .

Lighthouse on the Gre...
Thu 1/12

The Rose Kennedy Greenway is a beautiful outdoor space, and less smelly now that the Occupy Boston people are gone. They're opening an exhibit with dance performance, artist talk, and refreshments. 6-8pm. (Click 'more' for details)The Rose Kennedy Greenway is a beautiful outdoor space, and less smelly now that ... Boston Harbor Islands Pavilion, Boston, MA .

Also Fun

Intro to Contra Dancing, with Live Folk Music
Tue 1/10 - Tue 1/31

Too shy to meet people at a nightclub? Contra dancing is a social folk dance that's easy to learn and automatically gives you a round dancing with everyone in the room. And there are a bunch of other dances on the calendar. 8-10:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)Too shy to meet people at a nightclub? Contra dancing is a... Student Center, Room 491, MIT, Cambridge, MA .

Campfire Dining
Sun 1/15

How creative! Restaurants bring food samples to 6-8 outdoor bonfires, and you follow the tiki torches to each via snowshoe or cross-country skiing. It's just a 2-hour drive from Boston. 11am-1pm. (Click 'more' for details)How creative! Restaurants bring food samples to 6-8 outdoor bonfires, and you follow the tiki torches to each v... Eastman, Grantham, NH .

Integration Bee
Tue 1/17

Do you like math? Do you like math WAY too much? Come see this competition to integrate equations at Geek World Headquarters, otherwise known as MIT. 6:30-9pm. (Click 'more' for details)Do you like math? Do you like math WAY too much? Come see this competition to integrate equations at Geek World He... MIT, Cambridge, MA .

Concord Museum is Free
Sun 1/15 - Sun 1/22

REI: Introduction to ...
Sat 1/14

I really want to go snowshoeing! I've never tried it. And I guess I won't this week, since there won't be any snow. But you can learn animal tracking. 10am-2pm. (Click 'more' for details)I really want to go snowshoeing! I've never tried it. And I guess I won't this week, since there... Notchview Park, Windsor, MA .

New England International Auto Show
Thu 1/12 - Mon 1/16

Does anyone have the cash for a new car these days? Somehow I don't think this auto show includes used models. Still it's fun to look. (Click 'more' for details)Does anyone have the cash for a new car these d... Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, Boston, MA, Boston, MA .

Adaptive Skating-Game...
Tue 1/10

Hmm... This event is for handicapped kids? Well, it says "Everyone is welcome" and they'll have skating and sledding, and such. 11:30am-1:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)Hmm... This event is for handicapped kids? Well, it says "Everyone is welc... Cronin Rink, 850 Revere Beach Parkway, Revere, MA .

I Came to Testify
Wed 1/11

Bosnia and Serbia are still feeling the repercussions of their war, as this fillm and discussion about rape demonstrates. Depressing, but important. 5-7pm. (Click 'more' for details)Bosnia and Serbia are still feeling the repercussions of their war, as this fillm and discussion ... Harvard Law School, Cambridge, MA .

College Nights at the...
Tue 1/17

If you've got a college ID, every Tuesday evening the ice skating is only $2 at Frog Pond. (Hey, it's a slow news month.). (Click 'more' for details)If you've got a college ID, every Tuesday evening the ice skating is only $2 at Frog Po... Frog Pond, Boston Common, Boston, MA .

CoCo Key Water Resort...
Sat 1/14

I've been to this fully heated indoor water park. It's big enough to spend a whole day there, and not too expensive! Well, half a day. No, I don't get paid to list this. I just think it's genuinely awesome. (Click 'more' for details)I've been to this fully heated indoor water park. It's big enough to... Royal Plaza Hotel, 150 Royal Plaza Drive, Fitchburg, MA .

Performance

Copenhagen by Michael Frayn - our review
Fri 1/6 - Sat 1/14

It's easy in hindsight to overlook the fact that the Germans COULD have built the atomic bomb first during World War II. Here's a play about that. Click for our review! (Click 'more' for details)It's easy in hindsight to overlook the fact that the Germans... The Factory Theatre, 791 Tremont St, Boston, MA .

Joyful Noise w/ the H...
Sat 1/14

I don't normally list concerts, but this one's more of a community event than most concerts, and Martin Luther King Day is thin this year. If Boston is holding an official celebration, they buried it and I could not find the listing. It's traditional to stand, clap, and even join in. Fun! 7:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)I don't normally list concerts, but this one's more of a community event th... Sanders Theatre, 45 Quincy Street, Cambridge, MA .

Animated Films with I...
Fri 1/13

This concert's even less well described. How bad could it be? They'll show animated films and dance to them. 7:30-10:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)This concert's even less well described. How bad could it be? They'll show animated films and dance to them.... Cambridge, MA .

Dr. Martin Luther Kin...
Mon 1/16

Generally I do not believe that children should perform music for anyone but their parents. But heck, a concert taking place at the New England Conservatory might be quite good! Two shows, 2pm and 7pm. (Click 'more' for details)Generally I do not believe that children should perform music for anyone but their parents. But heck... Jordan Hall, Boston, MA .

Magic For Smart Peopl...
Sat 1/14

Can't make this show? Check the Regent's calendar for other magic shows. I've seen enough magic that I like that idea of a specifically intelligent show. (Click 'more' for details)Can't make this show? Check the Regent's calendar for other magic shows. I've seen enough magi... Regent Theatre, Arlington, MA .

Travel

Steampunk Bizarre Clo...
Sun 1/15

Can you imagine Mark Twain dressed like a Jules Verne steampunk superhero? I can! I've seen this exhibition and it's fantastic and the chance to mingle with enthusiasts should NOT be missed. 12-4pm. (Click 'more' for details)Can you imagine Mark Twain dressed like a Jules Verne steampunk superhero? I can! I've s... 351 Farmington Avenue, Hartford, CT .

The Haunted Shelves o...
Sun 1/15

It's not just a play, it's a potluck dinner! The spirits of dead poets come to life and perform. (So is this spooky or kid-friendly?) 5:30-8:30pm. (Click 'more' for details)It's not just a play, it's a potluck dinner! The spirits of dead poets come to life and perfo... 35 Mountain Rd, Farmington, CT .

SnowCon
Fri 1/13 - Sun 1/15

Games games games. Whether it's roleplaying games or live roleplaying (a kind of improv theatre where the cast is the only audience), what else have you got to do in the snow in Central Maine this weekend? (Click 'more' for details)Games games games. Whether it's roleplaying games or live roleplaying (a kind of improv theatre where the cast is t... Black Bear Inn, Orono, ME .

Jan 3-10, 2012: Meteors, Hot Tub, Boston Celtic Music Festival, 5 Full Moon Hikes, Medieval Feast, Christmas Tree Bonfire

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:53:05 -0500

This Week in Review

Happy New Year! We're now in the two-month slump where there are fewer Events INSIDER gems. I continue to work on the format of the website. Let me know if it doesn't work or if you have any ideas, at johnny@eventsINSIDER.com. Thanks!

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

-Johnny

The Week in Weird

Watson Adventures Murd...
Sat 1/7

The best way to see the MFA? Play a scavenger hunt game run by Watson Adventures. I have two tickets for a giveaway for the January 7 Murder at the Art Museum Hunt and you'll find a lot more all over New England this Spring! Email johnny@eventsINSIDER.com to win. (Click again for details)The best way to see the MFA? Play a scavenger hunt game run by Watson Adventures. I have two tic... Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA .

East Heaven Hot Tub - tix giveaway
Sun 1/1 - Tue 1/31

Didn't win the last two weeks? East Heaven has a rooftop hot tub and a variety of spa servics. I'm giving away one last half hour tub for two (indoor or out), valid Mon-Fri in January! Email johnny@eventsINSIDER.com. (Click again for details)Didn't win the last two weeks? East Heaven has a rooftop hot tub and a variety of spa servi... 33 West St, Northampton, MA .

Cirque Shanghai Bai Xi - tix giveaway
Thu 1/5 - Fri 1/6

It really doesn't get any better than the Hanover Theatre, which this week features three giveaways! First up, i have 4 tix for the Jan 5, 7pm show of Chinese acrobats, contortionists, and martial arts, all set to lights and music. Email johnny@eventsinsider.com to win. (Click again for details)It really doesn't get any better than the Hanover Theatre, which th... Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St, Worcester, MA .

Arrival - The Music of...
Sat 1/7

ABBA is the 4th best selling rock group of all time, and I have 4 tix for the tribute band to give away! Email johnny@eventsinsider.com to win! 7:30pm. (Click again for details)ABBA is the 4th best selling rock group of all time, and I have 4 tix for the t... Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St, Worcester, MA .

Boston No Pants Ride
Sun 1/8

Every year the pranksters in Boston (and New York) ride the subway with only their underwear. I've seen it and it's a pretty awesome stunt. Meet at the South Station subway stop, outside on the street level. 2-5pm. (Click again for details)Every year the pranksters in Boston (and New York) ride the subway with only their underwear. I've see... South Station, Boston, MA .

Boston Celtic Music Festival & Dance Party
Fri 1/6 - Sat 1/7

It's not just a concert! The Boston Celtic Music Festival features a parade and participatory dancing and singing as well as stage acts of dance and music. It's highly creative with events like the "Bawdy Breakfast" and Michael Jackson tunes re-interpreted as Scottish music. (Click again for details)It's not just a concert! The Boston Celtic Music Festival features a parade a... Various Venues, Cambridge, MA .

Chinatown Main Street ...
Sat 1/7

Boston's Chinatown is holding an authentic dinner to celebrate New Years', with martial arts and dance performances. But this is not the real street festival, still to come. I'll remind you later. (Click again for details)Boston's Chinatown is holding an authentic dinner to celebrate New Years', with martial arts and dance per... Chinatown, Boston, MA .

Quadtrantids Meteor Sh...
Tue 1/3

Meteor showers aren't always easy to see, but this one should be great! Go someplace without any city lights, like a large field or lake, and bring someone you can chat with while waiting, because the Quadtrantids are unpredictable. (Click again for details)Meteor showers aren't always easy to see, but this one should be great! Go someplace without any city lights, like ... Everywhere .

Waterfire Celebration
Wed 1/4

Waterfire is when they light bonfires in racks all along the Providence River downtown. It's beautiful and well worth a visit, if you are already in the area. (Click again for details)Waterfire is when they light bonfires in racks all along the Providence River downtown. It's beautiful and well wor... Providence, RI .

Moby Dick - The Marathon
Fri 1/6 - Sun 1/8

Here's a gem. People gather and listen to a nonstop reading of Herman Melville's classic, Moby Dick. It takes 25 hours and there is a buffer and lecture beforehand. (Click again for details)Here's a gem. People gather and listen to a nonstop reading of Herman Melville's clas... New Bedford Whaling Museum, New Bedford, MA .

Christmas Tree Bonfire...
Fri 1/6

Salem's residents will burn their holiday trees in a huge bonfire. It will smell great and the pine sap tends to pop! 6:30pm. (Click again for details)Salem's residents will burn their holiday trees in a huge bonfire. It will smell gr... Dead Horse Beach at Salem Willows, Salem, MA .

Full Moon Owl Prowl
Fri 1/6

I really want to see this!! It's a night hike where you get to see owls in the wild. 7:30-9pm. (Click again for details)I really want to see this!! It's a night hike where you get to see owls in the wild. 7:30-9pm. Broadmoor, 280 Eliot St, Natick, MA .

Owl Moon
Tue 1/10

And here's another where you get to explore the night looking for owls. This one's more kids-oriented. 5:30-7pm. (Click again for details)And here's another where you get to explore the night looking for owls. This one's more kids-oriented. 5:30-7pm. Appleton Farms, Hamilton, MA .

Full Moon Hike
Sat 1/7

This one's more like it (less kids-oriented). What's better than a guided night hike looking for wildlife? 7-8:30pm. (Click again for details)This one's more like it (less kids-oriented). What's better than a guided night hike lookin... Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield, MA .

Full Moon Hike
Mon 1/9

I've never gone on a full moon guided hike looking for nature at night, but I'd love to join one someday! 5-7pm. (Click again for details)I've never gone on a full moon guided hike looking for nature at night, but I'd love t... Freetown State Forest, Slab Bridge Road, Assonet, MA .

MIT IAP (Independent Activities Period)
Mon 1/9 - Fri 2/3

While most colleges shut down for winter break, MIT holds an entire month of creative classes, lectures, and special events, many of which are open to the public. I'll highlight some of my favs throughout the month, but check their calendar! (Click again for details)While most colleges shut down for winter break, MIT holds an entire month of creative classes, ... MIT, Cambridge, MA .

Also Fun

Providence Bright Nigh...
Mon 1/2

I've just attended the New Years Eve celebration in Providence, RI, called Bright Night. Providence is an arts center and the event made a fantastic time for families or as an alternative to boozing it up. Click for my review! (Click again for details)I've just attended the New Years Eve celebration in Providence, RI, called Bright Night. Providence is an arts ... Providence, RI .

Winter Trails Day
Sat 1/7

Winter Trails Day actually takes place all across New England, wherever there is snow. Find free snoeshowing and free cross-country skiing! Too bad snow isn't forecast close to Boston. (Click again for details)Winter Trails Day actually takes place all across New England, wherever there is snow. Find free snoeshowing and free cross... Everywhere .

Fetes De Rois (Feast o...
Sat 1/7

This centuries old French tradition is basically a party for kids, and they'll have a cake and lots of French culture. There's limited space, so RSVP. 1:30-3:30pm. (Click again for details)This centuries old French tradition is basically a party for kids, and they'l... The French Library and Cultural Center, Boston, MA .

Adaptive Skating-Game...
Tue 1/10

Mmmm... This event is for handicapped kids? Well, it says "Everyone is welcome" and they'll have skating and sledding, and such. 11:30am-1:30pm. (Click again for details)Mmmm... This event is for handicapped kids? Well, it says "Everyone is welcome"... Cronin Rink, 850 Revere Beach Parkway, Revere, MA .

Cape Codder "Not-So Po...
Sun 1/8

Did you skip all the recent "polar plunges" dipping into hot water for charity? Here's a hot one. It's technically free but they suggest a $25 donation to use their outdoor heated pool. (Click again for details)Did you skip all the recent "polar plunges" dipping into hot wate... Cape Codder Resort & Spa, 1225 Iyannough Road, Hyannis, MA .

Performance

Copenhagen by Michael Frayn
Fri 1/6 - Sat 1/14

The atomic bomb was perhaps the greatest unknown of World War II, and here's a play on that riveting topic. Who will build it first, the Axis or the Allies? (Click again for details)The atomic bomb was perhaps the greatest unknown of World War II, and here's a... The Factory Theatre, 791 Tremont St, Boston, MA .

A Revels Twelfth Night...
Sat 1/7

Are you sad that Christmas is over? It isn't quite yet! Join the dancing and singing, make crafts, and they'll have Mumming and sword dancing too. 3-5pm. (Click again for details)Are you sad that Christmas is over? It isn't quite yet! Join the dancing and singing, ma... Church, 80 Mt. Auburn St, Watertown, MA .

Travel

Medieval Feast
Fri 1/6

Hey! Here's another Twelfth Night festival, with medeival performances and food. (Click again for details)Hey! Here's another Twelfth Night festival, with medeival performances and food. Church, 2 Union St, Norwich, CT .

Full Ice Moon Hike at ...
Sun 1/8

A full moon. The night. Ice. And walking. Sounds awesome, if you don't get eaten by werewolves. 4pm. Free! (Click again for details)A full moon. The night. Ice. And walking. Sounds awesome, if you don't get eaten by werewolves. 4pm. Free! Stonington, CT .

Mystic Seaport to Host...
Sat 1/7

So. Mystic Seaport is free and they'll have music of maritine music like Sea Shanties. 1- 5 p.m. (Click again for details)So. Mystic Seaport is free and they'll have music of maritine music like Sea Sha... Frohsinn Hall, 54 Greenmanville Ave, Mystic, CT .

Free First Saturday at...
Sat 1/7

It's meant for kids, but I love the free admission and paper lantern making workshop concept. They've got an exhibition called Hello Manga all about Japanese comics, and another where skateboards become art! (Click again for details)It's meant for kids, but I love the free admission and paper lantern mak... Lyman Allyn Art Museum, 265 Williams St, New London, CT .

Dec 26, 2011 - Jan 3, 2012: Arty New Years Eve (not at a bar), Polar Plunges, Snowshoeing & Skating, Hikes & Cruises, listing more Fireworks than anyone else!

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 11:07:39 -0500

This Week in Review

You don't have to go to a bar for New Years Eve! I now present the biggest list of arty, creative New Years Eve events in New England. And by far the biggest list of fireworks! 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. 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.

This is the last big week for nighttime Xmas light attractions, and pretty much the last week for interesting arty events until March, so go make something of it. I hope you are having an awesome week. Now get out there and do something fun!

-Johnny

The Week in Weird

David Foster & Mohegan Sun All Stars - tix giveaway
Sat 12/31

Still looking for a place to go for New Year's Eve? How about this party featuring David Foster... 877.571.SHOW.Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St, Worcester, MA.

East Heaven Hot Tub - tix giveaway
Sat 1/1 - Mon 1/31

Didn't win last week? I have more tix to give! East Heaven has a rooftop hot tub and a variety of spa servics. I'm giving away a half hour tu... 33 West St, Northampton, MA.

Sing-a-Long Sound of Music
Mon 12/26 - Fri 12/30

The Sound of Music, the classic musical is being shown in Arlington along with printed lyrics so you can sing along. How fun!! And it's happenin... Regent Theatre, Arlington, MA.

First Night Boston
Sat 12/31

Don't go to a bar for New Years! Getting drunk is not creative, and you already spend a third of your life asleep... that's enough blotting out life. for me. How ab... Various Locations, Boston, MA.

First Night Grand Procession & Fireworks
Sat 12/31

Don't want to pay? The parade is free, with ice sculptures in Boston Common and fireworks over Boston Harbor a... From Hynes Convention Center to Boston Common, Boston, MA.

First Night at Frog Pond Skating Pink
Sat 12/31

Boston Common's pond has ice skating all winter, including New Years Eve. Boston, MA.

New Year's Eve Dance Party at Folk Arts Center of New England
Sat 12/31

OK, let's say you're afraid of walking in the cold and just want to stay in a single place for New Years. Here's a ... Church, 11 Homer Street, Newton, MA.

New Years Day Walk
Sat 1/1

Here's another walk, conveniently in Boston. Below I list a bunch more in state parks all around. 2-4pm. The nearby Franklin Park Zoo is open on New Year's, too! Franklin Park, Boston, MA.

L Street Brownies New Year's Day Swim
Sat 1/1

Every New Years Day, crazy people go for a swim on New Years. Why not show up and cheer them on? What a way ... 617-635-5104.Curley Community Center, 1663 Columbia Road, Boston, MA.

Moonlit Snowshoe Tour
Thu 12/29

Snowshoes!! I've never done this, and I really want to go! I have big feet already, but they are not snowshoe sized, so I will need to rent snowshoes. 7:30-9pm. Gorham, NH.

New Years Eve

Mayor's New Year Open House
Sat 12/31

This is the closest alternative to Boston's First Night that's on public transit. 11:30am professional performance at the ice r... 617 527 8283.City Hall, 1000 Commonwealth Ave, Newton, MA.

First Night Tours at Otis House
Sat 12/31

While at First Night, visit this historic 1796 mansion right in downtown Boston, 11am-9pm. Even if you are going to a party (this is ac... 617-227-3956.141 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA.

Spirit of Boston New Year's Cruise
Sat 12/31

Here's a creative idea: seeing the fireworks from a ship! Call for reservations. 617-748-1450.Commonwealth Pier, Boston, MA.

Happy Noon Year
Sat 12/31

This undescribed event is just for kids, but will most likely be fun. 12pm. Boston, MA.

New Year's Eve Harbor Cruise with a Ranger
Sat 12/31

Here's another kid-friendly (but also for adults) afternoony activity for New Years Eve. Cruise with a park ranger for 90 minutes! 1-3pm. 617-770-0040.Boston, MA.

New Years Eve with The Donkey Show
Sat 12/31

Everyone loves the Donkey Show, where they take Shakespeare and mix it with a disco performance and a dance party you can take part in! Wha... Club Oberon, 2 Arrow St, Cambridge, MA.

Boston's Resolution Ball
Sat 12/31

If you have to go to a standard New Years party, this one's the biggest and best. Seaport World Trade Center, Boston, MA.

New Years Eve at Nashoba Ski
Sat 12/31

Beat this, bars that don't do anything special for New Years! Skiing, riding, tubing until 11:30pm and then a parade and fireworks! Let's hope... 978-692-5700.79 Powers Road, Westford, MA.

Bessie's New Year's Eve PJ Dance Party
Sat 12/31

Have kids? Attend the Discovery Museum and dance around in your pajamas. Hee hee hee. 10am. Is it really at 10am?? Acton, MA.

New Years' Eve Contra Dances
Sat 12/31

Folk dances are a great alternative to nightclubs. People don't dress like skanks, it's well lit, and the social dances are constru... 617-547-7781.Scout House, 74 Walden St., Concord, MA.

New Year's Eve Labyrinth Walk
Sat 12/31

This is so great! This church has both indoor and outdoor labyrinth and you can come do a 30-minute walk and reflect on life. I called and they swear... 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin, MA.

New Year's Eve at the Irish Cultural Center of New England
Sat 12/31

This looks like a nightclubby experience but the Irish Cultural Centre generally has good entertainment. 7pm-1am. 200 New Boston Dr, Canton, MA.

New Year's Needham, MA
Sat 12/31

This one's the closest real 'first night' to Boston. They have a trolley so you can get around without driving. 10am-12:30am. No fireworks, but there's a laser light show at the ... Needham, MA.

City Celebrates! New Year's Eve, New Bedford, MA
Sat 12/31

A national park in New Bedford will have arts, a parade, and fireworks, from 4-8pm. Although it says 2011, this really is their "New Ye... 508-996-8253.New Bedford, MA.

First Night Worcester, MA
Sat 12/31

I've discovered another 30 cities in New England that hold First Nights, too! Why not get a hotel room and visit another city? This one has shuttles so you don't have to dri... Worcester, MA.

New Year's Eve at Wachusett Mountain
Sat 12/31

Most ski resorts are having a New Years celebration. The best ones like Wachusett Mountain have fireworks and let you ski at night until midni... Wachusett Mountain, Princeton, MA.

Billerica Family First Night
Sat 12/31

In Billerica they'll have "music and entertainment" in front of city hall, but no town-wide performances. Last year they had ice sculptures and a parade. 4-8pm. Billerica, MA.

New Years Rockport Eve
Sat 12/31

There will also be short 45-minute performances at 15 venues in the downtown area of Rockport. 6pm-midnight. They refuse to call it 2012 for some reason.... Rockport Downtown area, Rockport, MA.

Beverly's New Year
Sat 12/31

This one ends early, it runs 3-8pm. There's a parade but there don't seem to be fireworks. 978-922-8558.Cabot Street, Beverly, MA.

Wenham Museum's New Years Countdown
Sat 12/31

Although it's meant for kids, you could do worse than see a magic show and sing silly songs, all at a convenient 10am-1pm. That's AM as in "morning". :).... 132 Main St, Wenham, MA.

First Night Orange, MA
Sat 12/31

Orange has fireworks! And hayrides, and a parade with giant puppets! But no oranges. 6-11pm. 978-544-2821.Orange, MA.

New Years's Jam at Earthdance
Tue 12/27 - Sat 1/1

They claim this all-weekend dance festival sells out, so buy early. It's an off-beat way to spend New Years. 413-634-5678.Plainfield, MA.

First Night, Jr. at Holyoke
Sat 12/31

This one's also for kids, with a carousel, a magician, ice sculptures, juggler, and balloon an... 413-534-1723 or 413-530-0893.Holyoke Heritage State Park, 221 Appleton Street, Holyoke, MA.

First Night Northampton, MA
Sat 12/31

Further away but trying hard is First Night Northampton, with 23 venues of performances. 11:59pm-12pm, with fireworks at 6:15pm. Northampton, MA.

Jiminy Peak New Years
Sat 12/31

A parade and fireworks are fine excuses to go skiing for New Years Eve! Jiminy Peak, Hancock, MA.

First Night Chatham, MA
Fri 12/30 - Sat 12/31

This is the only First Night celebration on Cape Cod. They have 70 performers and an afternoon as well as an evening schedule. 12pm-11:59pm. Then fireworks at midnig... Chatham, MA.

Martha's Vineyard Fireworks
Sat 12/31

Although these fireworks are meant for residents of the Harbor View Hotel and Resort, if you're in town, it's free to see them. I called to confirm this... Harbor View Hotel, Edgartown, MA.

Bright Night Providence
Sat 12/31

Providence has a First Night experience, 12pm-11:59pm, with 17 venues, and world-famous magician as the headliner! No fireworks, though, the state won't allow it (boo). Providence, RI.

Cranapalooza
Sat 12/31

Every Saturday through mid-March this ski resort will have events and fireworks. They have a Fun Zone indoor amusement park, too. And snow tubing. Cranmore Mountain, North Conway, NH.

First Night Portsmouth, NH
Sat 12/31

I couldn't find anything in Concord, the capitol of New Hampshire, but they're having a First Night celebration in Portsmouth. 1pm-11:59pm. Portsmouth, NH.

First Night Wolfeboro, NH
Sat 12/31

This is the only other one in NH that I found. 603-569-2200.Wolfeboro, NH.

New Years at Santa's Village
Sat 12/31

Santa's Village is an amusement park, featuring a DJ and fireworks at 8pm. 4-9pm. Jefferson, NH.

First Night Danbury, CT
Sat 12/31

First Nights continue. This one's in Danbury, a series of performances at multiple venues. Danbury, CT.

First Night Hartford, CT
Sat 12/31

This one's got a carousel, 16 venues of performances, and two fireworks displays -- at 6pm and midnight. Bushnell Park, Hartford, CT.

First Night Wesport, CT
Sat 12/31

A "First Night" is a series of performances around town. Here are more, in Westport CT and Weston, CT. Westport, CT.

Frostival
Sat 12/31

This one's got vendors, kids activities, and fireworks. 5-8pm. Danielson, CT.

Nudist resort New Years'
Sat 12/31

Or, perhaps you'd like to try a party at a nudist resort. Woodstock, CT.

Bangor Downtown Countdown
Sat 12/31

With live music, dancing, and street performers, this presumably outdoor celebration seems fun. 5pm-11:59pm. Bangor, ME.

L.L.Bean New Year's Celebration
Sat 12/31

L.L. Bean brings it with live music and fireworks, but this event seems kids oriented. Freeport, ME.

Belfast New Year's By the Bay
Sat 12/31

This one's got 12 venues withi performances. 12-11:59pm. Belfast, ME.

First Night Old Orchard Beach
Sat 12/31

Ooo! A bonfire with marshmallow toasting, cocoa, starts at 4:30pm with fireworks at 5:30pm. Old Orchard Beach, ME.

First Night Burlington, VT
Sat 12/31

Vermont is getting in on the game as well. Theirs looks especially well organized, with 15 arts venues, 12-11:59pm. Are there fireworks again this year? Burlington, VT.

First Night Montpelier, VT
Sat 12/31

Burlington is not actually the capitol of Vermont. It's Montpelier, the "smallest capitol in the nation", which is doing it too, with 17 venues. 12-10:30pm. Parade and dis... Montpelier, VT.

First Night St. Johnsbury, VT
Sat 12/31

St. Johnsbury, VT is about as far north as Montpelier. Maybe you could visit and go skiing, too. They'll have 50 performances, fireworks, and "dancing sky lanterns".... St. Johnsbury, VT.

New Year's Eve Fireworks and Torchlight Parade (Sugarbush Resort)
Sat 12/31

Oo! There's a dog parade, live music, a parade of torchlights, and fireworks. Sugarbush Resort, Warren, VT.

New Year's Eve at Okemo Mountain Resort
Sat 12/31

Free skate rentals, marshmallow roasting, showshoeing, fireworks. Okemo Mountain Resort, Ludlow, VT.

Mount Snow Torchlight Parade and Fireworks
Sat 12/31

New Years Eve comes early to this ski attraction in Vermont. West Dover, VT.

New Years Day

First Day Fall River & Polar Plunge
Sat 1/1 - Sun 1/2

Instead of trying to compete, Fall River is having their celebration on New Year's DAY. First, at 10am, a P... 508-324-2600 or 508-676-0324.Kennedy Park, Fall River, MA.

Block Island Polar Plunge
Sat 1/1

Crazy people dive into cold water for charity. 12pm. Town Beach, Block Island, RI.

New Years' Day Polar Bear Plunge
Sat 1/1

Also in Rhode Island... more cold water for charity. Yikes! Can't I just donate without diving? 401-846-0028.Easton's Beach, Memorial Blvd, Newport, RI.

Joey's Plunge
Sat 1/1

Here's another one in Boston, this time to benefit kids with terminal illness. Crazy people jump into the water. Wow. 1663 Columbia Road, Boston, MA.

Seafarers
Sat 1/1

Let's go for a cruise! 12-4pm. Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA.

New Years Day Kite Fly - Portland, ME
Sat 1/1

I've been to a kite fly. You'll meet a lot of big hobbyists to show you how to fly properly, and you can get a two-stringed "stunt kite"! 12pm. Portland, ME.

Wicked Frosty Four Race
Sat 1/1

There are also a bunch of New Years Day races. Here is one, a great excuse to check out Salem's many attractions. Starts at Old Town Hall, 32 Derby Square, Salem, MA.

First Day Hikes at Blue Hills
Sat 1/1

But I'd rather go for a guided hike than a race. They're all free, all over the state. The Blue Hills is the tallest 'mountain' near Boston. Various state parks, All Over.

Breakheart-Fells Weekly Hikes
Sat 1/1

Going for a hike is a fantastic New Years Day activity, and it's followed by clam chowder. Mmm. 12pm. Breakheart Reservation Visitors Center, 177 Forest St, Saugus, MA.

Penguin Plunge
Sat 1/1

I used to think for this one they pushed special needs kids into cold water. "Hey Jimmy, let's go for a dip!" But it turns out it's others who jump to raise money to help ... Mackeral Cove, Jamestown, RI.

Seawall Splash 2012
Sat 1/1

And here's another. Registration is free, they say. Greeaaaaat... It's free to dive into icy water.... 10am check-in, 12pm splash. Warwick, RI.

Hangover Classic (race and polar swim)
Sat 1/1

This one's near Newburyport, MA on the North Shore. Sure, let's both race AND swim in the cold. A doubly-bad idea. 11:30am. Salisbury Beach, 3 Broadway Street, Salisbury, MA.

Boston Vegetarian Society New Years Dinner
Sat 1/1

Are vegetarians insane? Not any more so than people who dive into icy water for charity. Maybe it's the future!... 617-254-8883.Grasshopper, 1 North Beacon Street, Allston, MA.

Also Fun

Truth, Lies and Politics w/ Barney Frank
Mon 1/3

That lecture with congressman Barney Frank, who is retiring, has been rescheduled to Jan 3. He's a liberal icon and well wor... Leventhal-Sidman JCC, 333 Nahanton St, Newton, MA.

DCU Presents an Open Skate
Thu 12/29

Do you live in Worcester? There's free skating at the DCU! 11am-6pm. Worcester, MA.

Holiday Luncheon & Sled Rides!
Tue 12/27 - Thu 12/29

Someday I've got to visit this museum, which continually holds interesting events. This one has a bonfore, snowshoe ... 603-323-7591.58 Cleveland Hill Road, Tamworth, NH.

Performance

The Merry Wives of Windsor
Wed 12/7 - Sat 1/1

If you're a little hesitant to see Shakespeare, this comedy will be very accessible, with physical gags, sharp wit, and the spir... Davis Square Theatre, 255 Elm St, Somerville, MA.

The Christmas Revels - our review
Mon 12/12 - Sat 12/31

Revels puts on a fantastic annual performance, with comedy, carols, and and this year find the Lord of the Dance. Click for our review! Sanders Theatre, Cambridge, MA.

Jimmy Tingle's American Dream - live on stage & screen
Sat 12/31

Comedian Jimmy Tingle will do a live show, take questions, and screen his new satirical movie on politics. What an inventive... Regent Theatre, Arlington, MA.

Frank Sinatra & Dean Martin New Years Eve Show
Sat 12/31

I'm too young to care about Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, but it's sure a creative way to spend New Years Eve. 6-8pm. 377 North Main St, Mansfield MA.

Holiday Lights & Santa Events	grade	Mon 12/26	Tue 12/27	Wed 12/28	Thu 12/29	Fri 12/30	Sat 12/31	Sun 1/1	Mon 1/2
Stone Zoo's ZoolightsStoneham, MA 2011: 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, 617-989-2000. twitter facebook	B-	M	T	W	R	F	S	S
Holiday LandscapesStoneham, 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	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S
Petting Zoo in front of Seasons Four Furniture StoreLexington, MA This is a merchant event with a petting zoo, Santa, elmo, face painting, singers, balloon animals, etc. I called and they couldn't be bothered to give me the dates, so this is my best guess. 1265 Massachusetts Avenue, 781-861-1200. facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S
Edaville Railroad's Christmas Festival of LightsCarver, MA The biggest and best "holiday lights" display in New England is 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. They have a train ride, ferris wheel, carousel, and other rides, with 7 million lights. Tons of fun even for adults! 2011: Mon-Fri 4-9pm, Sat-Sun 2-9pm. Pine Street, 877-EDAVILLE. twitter facebook	A+	M	T	W	R	F	S	S
La Salette Shrine Festival of LightsAttleboro, MA 2011: 5-9pm. Very religious: it's a shrine. But I've been and it was nice anyway. Over 300,000 lights covering 10 acres. Trolley rides Fri-Sun. 947 Park Street, 508-222-5410.	B+	M	T	W	R	F	S	S
Springfield's Bright Night at Forest ParkSpringfield, MA 2011: Sun-Thu, 5-9pm, Fri-Sun, 5-11pm. 550,000 lights. Great! 2nd best to Edaville. Check out the Springfield Museums or zoo (open during school holidays in Dec) while you're there. Rt 83, 413-733-3800. facebook	A	M	T	W	R	F	S	S
Look Park's Winter WonderlandFlorence, MA Hayrides, night lights, zoo. 39,000 bulbs. 2011: 4-9pm. Breakfast with Santa 12/3. 300 North Main Street, 413.584.5457. facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S
Cape Codder Enchanted VillageHyannis, MA 100,000 lights, daily to 10pm, with caroling and Santa on Fri-Sat 5:30-8:30pm, Sun 5-7pm. 1225 Iyannough Road, 888-297-2200. twitter facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S
Gift of Lights at New Hampshire Motor SpeedwayLoudon, NH More than a mile of LED lights to drive through in your car. Santa's Village, costumed characters. 2011: Sun-Thu 6-9pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10pm. 1122 Route 106 North, 888-926-7403. twitter facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S
La Salette Shrine & CenterEnfield, NH Another very religious site has 45,000 evening lights spread across 30 acres. Here's the idea. Two kids said they saw the Virgin Mary, and the parents based an entire church on that. And I couldn't even get away with "the dog ate my homework"! 2011: 5-9pm except opening celebration 11/26. , 603-632-7087.	B	M	T	W	R	F	S
Santa's Village Christmas MagicJefferson, NH Lights display, Santa, reindeer, rides. Days & Eves. Special New Years event 12/31. , 603-586-4445.	?						S
Holiday Light FantasiaHartford, CT You drive through this one. 2011: Sun-Thu 6-9pm, Fri-Sat 6-10pm. 1130 Maple Ave, 860-742-2267.	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Fantasy of LightsNew Haven, CT Benefits the Easter Seals. Was not able to confirm this is their 2009, not 2008, calendar. Open nightly. Light House Point Park, 2 Lighthouse Road, 203-777-2000.	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
WinterFest at Connecticut Trolley MuseumEast Windsor, CT Trolley ride through holiday lights, sing-along carols and meet Santa. 2011: 5-9pm. 58 North Road, 860-627-6540.	?	M	T	W	R	F
Festival of Silver Lights at Hubbard ParkMeriden, CT Dawn to dusk. No admission, just you drive through this decorated park anytime. Hubbard Park, 203-630-4259.	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Christmas by the SeaMystic, CT 2010:11am-4pm. Re-enactors sing sea chanteys and tell old timey stories. Gingerbread lighthouse contest. Old-timey ships, kids activities, printing press. 19th century magic show Dec 26-Jan 1. Mystic Seaport, 860-572-5365. twitter facebook	?				R	F	S	S
Lantern Light ToursMystic, CT This is a walk through a re-enactment museum portraying Christmas eve 1876! Wow!! 2011: 5pm to 8 or 9pm. Tours fill up, register in advance. Mystic Seaport, 860-572-5365. twitter facebook	?	M	T
Lights On LovleyPlantsville, CT Drive up and tune your radio to 96.1FM. 2011: Daily 5-11pm. 14 Lovley Dr facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S

December 19-27, 2011: Sing-A-Long Sound of Music, Caroling, Winter Solstice Bonfires, Xmas Day Alternatives, Outdoor Hannukah, & Xmas Night Lights, Hot Tub Giveaway!

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 17:10:56 -0500

This Week in Review

It's not just about Christmas this week! Yes, I've got some non-churchy caroling ideas, but also nature hikes and bonfires for the winter solstice and a bunch of off-beat stuff if you don't celebrate, or if you do but want an excuse to get out of the house with your family.

And don't forget that I list more nighttime Christmas light displays in New England than anyone else -- just scroll all the way to the bottom to see. I hope you are having an awesome week. Now get out there and do something fun!

-Johnny

The Week in Weird

East Heaven Hot Tub - tix giveaway
Sat 1/1 - Mon 1/31

What's better than hot tubbing? The magnificent rooftop hot tub at East Heaven, which offers a variety of massage, too. I'm giving away a hal... 33 West St, Northampton, MA.

Sing-a-Long Sound of Music
Mon 12/26 - Fri 12/30

The Sound of Music, the classic musical is being shown in Arlington along with printed lyrics so you can sing along. How fun!! And it's happenin... Regent Theatre, Arlington, MA.

Christmas Eve Caroling - Louisburg Square on Beacon Hill
Sat 12/24

But for singing I might suggest going to Louisburg Square in... Beth Ketterson, 617-854-9019, or Mary Jane Sawyer, 781-444-5119.20 Louisburg Square, Boston, MA.

Explore Jewish Boston by Foot on Christmas Day
Sun 12/25

You wanna see some Jewish history? You could do woise! It's a walking tour of Beacon Hill. 2011: 2pm with ... 866-939-2557.Meet at Milk St near Devonshire St, Boston, MA.

Winter Solstice & Revels at the Harvard Museum of Natural History
Wed 12/21

Wow! Performers from Revels will dance in the horn exhibit wearing antlers and... do you need to know more? 5-8pm. Cambridge, MA.

Winter Solstice Celebration (Norfolk)
Thu 12/22

A fire -- presumably outdoors -- with stores, songs, snacks, and cider. 6-8pm. Stony Brook Sanctuary, 108 North St, Norfolk, MA.

Welcome Winter Solstice
Thu 12/22

This nature hike also comes with a fire -- sounds indoorsy -- with cocoa and cookies. 6:30-8pm. Oak Knoll Sanctuary, 1417 Park St, Attleboro, MA.

Solstice Celebration at Arcadia
Wed 12/21

There's a bonfire at this one. I love bonfires but I haven't seen one since I was a kid. I really want to go! 6-8:30pm. Arcadia, 127 Combs Road, Easthampton, MA.

Snowfire
Wed 12/21

What is this? I don't really get it. It's an outdoor bonfire and parade with costumed characters promenade, there's hot chocolate and cookies, caroling, and presumably a fire. Amelia Park, Westfield, MA.

Winter Solstice Celebration at Stonehenge USA
Wed 12/21

I've been to this place and the stone blocks are most likely a hoax. But it's fun and weird, and they have an alpaca farm. T... 603-893-8300.105 Haverhill Road, Salem, NH.

Boxborough Winter Solstice Sunrise
Wed 12/21

This one sounds really beautiful, if you're able to get up this early. At a state park, watch the sun rise through s... 978-443-5588.Half Moon Meadow Brook, Depot Rd, Boxborough, MA.

Ski Resorts open for Xmas Day, like Okemo
Sun 12/25

There are most likely many ski resorts open Xmas Day. Here's one. Call your favorite ski resort if you have one. Various Locations, Ludlow, VT.

Ho Ho Holidays

Messiah Sing at Portsmouth, NH
Tue 12/20

Join a community and sing-a-long to Handel's "Messiah". Website says bring your own score?? Um, for $14, you'll be handing out scores, ... The Music Hall, 28 Chestnut St, Portsmouth, NH.

Holiday Caroling on High Street Hill
Sat 12/24

It's not too late for Xmas caroling! This one is always Christmas Eve at 5:45pm on the Upland Road Green. It's been happening for 30 years at t... Upland Road Green, Brookline, MA.

A Caroling Party, with Libana
Mon 12/19

And here's one if you prefer to stay indoors. 7-9pm. Third Life Studio, 33 Union Sq, Somerville, MA.

Holiday Luncheon & Sled Rides!
Tue 12/27 - Thu 12/29

Someday I've got to visit this museum, which continually holds interesting events. This one has a bonfore, snowshoe ... 603-323-7591.58 Cleveland Hill Road, Tamworth, NH.

Oy Oy Oy

Boston Common Grand Menorah Lighting
Tue 12/20

I worked hard to find some Hanukkah events as well. This menorah lighting on Boston Common goes completely undescribed. Last y... Boston Common near Park St. Subway, Boston, MA.

Brookline Public Menorah Lighting
Tue 12/20

This one comes with donuts and chocolate gelt. 5:15pm. Beacon St at Pleasant St, Brookline, MA.

Canton Chanukah Wonderland
Sun 12/25

Now this is the Chanukah event to go to! They'll have latkes, donuts, a magician and ventriloquist, a moon bounce, menorah lighting, and... Canton High School, 900 Washington St, Canton, MA.

Chanukah Celebration in West Springfield
Tue 12/20

I've looked and looked for Chanukah events that don't take place in a synagogue, but there are damn few of them that I could find. T... Elm Street Common, West Springfield, MA.

Menorah Lighting on Needham Town Common
Wed 12/21

And this one also features Gelt. What is Gelt? Well, it also features donuts. 6pm. Needham Town Common, Needham, MA.

Also Fun

Xmas Day Alternatives: Movies, Chinese Restaurants, and a few Bars
Sun 12/25

On Christmas Day itself, movie theatres and video rental shops may be open. Restaurants are closed by law but a few ... Various Locations, Boston, MA.

Museums Open Dec 24 or Dec 26
Sat 12/24 - Fri 12/30

Plenty of museums only take Christmas Day off. See Concord Museum, http://concordmuseum.org; DeCordova Sculpture Museum, http://decordova.or... Various Locations, Boston Area.

New Years's Jam at Earthdance
Tue 12/27 - Sat 1/1

They claim this all-weekend dance festival sells out, so buy early. It's an off-beat way to spend New Years. 413-634-5678.Plainfield, MA.

Performance

The Merry Wives of Windsor
Wed 12/7 - Sat 1/1

If you're a little hesitant to see Shakespeare, this comedy will be very accessible, with physical gags, sharp wit, and the spir... Davis Square Theatre, 255 Elm St, Somerville, MA.

Little Black Topsy and the Magical White Fairy Soap
Mon 12/19

Part theater, part performance art, this story about beauty, femininity, and race tells of Little Black Topsy's journey thr... Oberon, 2 Arrow Street, Cambridge, MA.

Holiday Lights & Santa Events	grade	Mon 12/19	Tue 12/20	Wed 12/21	Thu 12/22	Fri 12/23	Sat 12/24	Sun 12/25	Mon 12/26
Stone Zoo's ZoolightsStoneham, MA 2011: 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, 617-989-2000. twitter facebook	B-	M	T	W	R	F	S		M
Holiday LandscapesStoneham, 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	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Petting Zoo in front of Seasons Four Furniture StoreLexington, MA This is a merchant event with a petting zoo, Santa, elmo, face painting, singers, balloon animals, etc. I called and they couldn't be bothered to give me the dates, so this is my best guess. 1265 Massachusetts Avenue, 781-861-1200. facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S		M
Millis WonderlandMillis, MA This is a private home, not a commercial "attraction", but good. Slowest nights are Tuesday-Thursday. 2011: 6-10pm. 60 Causeway Street	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S
Edaville Railroad's Christmas Festival of LightsCarver, MA The biggest and best "holiday lights" display in New England is 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. They have a train ride, ferris wheel, carousel, and other rides, with 7 million lights. Tons of fun even for adults! 2011: Mon-Fri 4-9pm, Sat-Sun 2-9pm. Pine Street, 877-EDAVILLE. twitter facebook	A+	M	T	W	R	F	S		M
Enchanted Village at Jordan's FurnitureAvon, MA Free! It's a 1958 Jordan Marsh display that's been restored to health by Jordan's Furniture. Website is unclear for how long the display goes. Jordan's Furniture, 100 Stockwell Dr twitter facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S
La Salette Shrine Festival of LightsAttleboro, MA 2011: 5-9pm. Very religious: it's a shrine. But I've been and it was nice anyway. Over 300,000 lights covering 10 acres. Trolley rides Fri-Sun. 947 Park Street, 508-222-5410.	B+	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Springfield's Bright Night at Forest ParkSpringfield, MA 2011: Sun-Thu, 5-9pm, Fri-Sun, 5-11pm. 550,000 lights. Great! 2nd best to Edaville. Check out the Springfield Museums or zoo (open during school holidays in Dec) while you're there. Rt 83, 413-733-3800. facebook	A	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Santa's HouseWest Springfield, MA 2011: Mon-Fri 5:30-7:30pm. Sat & Sun 2:30-4pm, 5:30-7:30pm. Mittineague Park	?	M	T	W	R	F
Look Park's Winter WonderlandFlorence, MA Hayrides, night lights, zoo. 39,000 bulbs. 2011: 4-9pm. Breakfast with Santa 12/3. 300 North Main Street, 413.584.5457. facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Lighted Winter Wonderland & Santas Big Party at Charmingfare FarmCandia, NH Thousands of lights, a 30-minute horse drawn night ride. Live reindeer, Santa, costumed characters. Petting zoo. Evenings. Route 27, 603-483-5623. twitter facebook	?			W	R	F	S
Gift of Lights at New Hampshire Motor SpeedwayLoudon, NH More than a mile of LED lights to drive through in your car. Santa's Village, costumed characters. 2011: Sun-Thu 6-9pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10pm. 1122 Route 106 North, 888-926-7403. twitter facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
La Salette Shrine & CenterEnfield, NH Another very religious site has 45,000 evening lights spread across 30 acres. Here's the idea. Two kids said they saw the Virgin Mary, and the parents based an entire church on that. And I couldn't even get away with "the dog ate my homework"! 2011: 5-9pm except opening celebration 11/26. , 603-632-7087.	B	M	T	W	R	F	S		M
Holiday Light FantasiaHartford, CT You drive through this one. 2011: Sun-Thu 6-9pm, Fri-Sat 6-10pm. 1130 Maple Ave, 860-742-2267.	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Fantasy of LightsNew Haven, CT Benefits the Easter Seals. Was not able to confirm this is their 2009, not 2008, calendar. Open nightly. Light House Point Park, 2 Lighthouse Road, 203-777-2000.	?	M	T	W	R	F	S		M
WinterFest at Connecticut Trolley MuseumEast Windsor, CT Trolley ride through holiday lights, sing-along carols and meet Santa. 2011: 5-9pm. 58 North Road, 860-627-6540.	?				R	F			M
Festival of Silver Lights at Hubbard ParkMeriden, CT Dawn to dusk. No admission, just you drive through this decorated park anytime. Hubbard Park, 203-630-4259.	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Christmas by the SeaMystic, CT 2010:11am-4pm. Re-enactors sing sea chanteys and tell old timey stories. Gingerbread lighthouse contest. Old-timey ships, kids activities, printing press. 19th century magic show Dec 26-Jan 1. Mystic Seaport, 860-572-5365. twitter facebook	?				R	F	S
Lantern Light ToursMystic, CT This is a walk through a re-enactment museum portraying Christmas eve 1876! Wow!! 2011: 5pm to 8 or 9pm. Tours fill up, register in advance. Mystic Seaport, 860-572-5365. twitter facebook	?					F			M
Lights On LovleyPlantsville, CT Drive up and tune your radio to 96.1FM. 2011: Daily 5-11pm. 14 Lovley Dr facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M

December 12-20, 2011: Winter Solstice, Model Trains, Latkes, Handbells, Fireworks, Caroling, tons of Nighttime Holiday Attractions, plus giveaways!

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:04:56 -0500

This Week in Review

It's been very difficult to track down alternative events -- but I found some if you aren't into Christmas! And the Xmas events that I list are mainly secular, anyhow. This week I've got some great giveaways, too. I hope you are having an awesome week. Now get out there and do something fun!

-Johnny

The Week in Weird

Radio City Music Hall - tix giveaway
Fri 12/2 - Wed 12/28

The world famous Rockettes are in Boston! There's spectaular singing & dancing, and I have 4 tickets to give away for the T... 866-348-9738.Wang Theatre, Boston, MA.

A Christmas Carol - tix giveaway
Fri 12/16 - Fri 12/23

Oh, wow! This week, I'm giving away 8 tickets not only for A Christmas Carol in Worcester, Fri Dec 16 at 7... 877.571.SHOW.Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge St, Worcester, MA.

Sangria with Santa Cruise - tix giveaway
Thu 12/15

I've also got 4 tickets to give away for this cruise that's bound to be heavenly, with Xmas themed decorations, a Santa claus, and a full ... 200 Seaport Boulevard, Boston, MA.

Cirque du Soleil - Quidam - tix giveaway, review
Wed 12/14 - Sun 12/18

Everyone's favorite traveling circus is Cirque du Soleil, and I have 4 tickets to give away for the Wed Dec 14 show! Click for our review! Worcester DCU, Worcester, MA.

The Friends of Eddie Coyle - tix giveaway
Thu 12/8 - Sat 1/15

Well before "The Departed", there was a book about Boston crime that's been called the best crime novel ever written. Now ... Club Oberon, 2 Arrow St, Cambridge, MA.

Merry Xmas Caroling Mob - Loose Canon Chorale
Sun 12/18

My favorite Xmas Caroling group this week is coming up Sunday. I went one year and it was awesome! Fun, creative, harmonic, and not to... Meet at an MBTA stop, Boston, MA.

Handel's Messiah Community Sing at Brandeis
Tue 12/13

A lot of Brandeis events are just for their own community but this one's open to the public. Come just to ... Shapiro Campus Center Atrium, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA.

Kendall Square Holiday on Ice
Sat 12/17

Did you miss the Frog Pond opening? I've been to the Kendall Square version twice and highly recommend it! Skating is free all day, wi... 617 492-0941.300 Athenaeum Street, Cambridge, MA.

FIRST Lego League Massachusetts State Championship
Sat 12/17

What's better than Lego? Robots made of Lego!! This is the state championship for building machines that don't do much bu... WPI, Harrington Auditorium, Worcester MA.

Party like it's 1776!
Thu 12/15

The Colonial Inn, which I recently reviewed and gave a 5 out of 5 stars, is throwing an old-timey Christmas party with a performance by re-enactors singing and telli... Colonial Inn, Concord, MA.

Christmas Boat Parade and Fireworks
Wed 12/14 - Sun 12/18

I've seen boat parades before, and they are spectacularly slow. Boats go slow. But the lights at night will be lovely, I don't doubt, and they're doing i... Newport, RI.

Caroling at the New England Wireless and Steam Museum
Sun 12/18

Before the Newport event perhaps you could swing by this caroling event. 5-6:30pm. Everyone's encouraged to bake and share some... 401-885-0545.East Greenwich, RI.

Boston Santacon
Sat 12/17

I'm sure it's fun to join hundreds of people dressed as Santa. Unfortunately, then they go bar hopping in the afternoon. This is the... 206-769-2092.Start at Faneuil Hall (Purple Shamrock), Boston, MA.

Illuminations Tour (Xmas Lights in Somerville)
Sat 12/17

In Somerville, take a 45 minute trolley tour around town to look at the most decorated houses. I've been a... 617-625-6600 ext- 2985.Somerville City Hall, Somerville, MA.

Winter Solistice at the Fells
Mon 12/19

The Middlesex Fells is the large woodland that you can get to on the subway for hiking. Learn some history, hear some poetry, and go for a su... Botume House, 4 Woodland Rd, Stoneham, MA.

Winter Solstice Celebration (Belmont)
Sat 12/17

This one claims to have stories, cider, and "traditional solstice activities". Traditional? How traditional, like a human sa... 617-489-5050.Habitat, 10 Juniper Road, Belmont, MA.

Winter Solstice Lantern Wallk
Sat 12/17 - Sun 12/18

Gee, this one looks even nicer. When's the last time you bothered to stop to watch a sunset? Preregister for this... 978-887-9264.Ipswich River, 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield, MA.

Solstice Stroll
Sat 12/17

Although quite far from Boston, you can't beat a candlelight stroll through a park at sunset and s'mores and hot chocolate around a fire. RSVP. 4-6pm. Ravenswood Park, Gloucester, MA.

Solstice Sunset Celebration
Sat 12/17

Here's another with "solstice stories", a campfire, songs and hot chocolate. You can reserve snowshoes ahead or bring a sled, if there's snow. 4-6pm.... Bartholomew's Cobble, Sheffield, MA.

Free Star Parties
Sun 12/18

Look through a telescope and learn about the stars from a real astronomer! Note that these events are generally cancelled if the weather is cloudy. 7-10p... Moose Hill, 293 Moose Hill St, Sharon, MA.

Geminids Meteor Shower
Tue 12/13 - Wed 12/14

The Geminids are one of only a few annual meteor showers. Dec 13 & 14, peaking at 11pm at the evening of Dec 13th. Make sure to g... Go somewhere without city lights, Everywhere.

The Wonders of Stars at the Holidays
Sat 12/17

Unsure about how to look for meteors? Just look up!! Well, if you want some extra assistance and education, this state park has... 508-655-2296.Broadmoor, 280 Eliot St, Natick, MA.

Model Train Weekend at National Heritage Museum
Sat 12/17 - Sun 12/18

There are plenty of non-Xmas events this week, and thank goodness. This one is the annual display by the Nation... 781-861-6559.33 Marrett Road, Concord, MA.

Friends of Irene Adler Annual Dinner (Sherlock Holmes)
Thu 12/15

What fun! This local fan club of Sherlock Holmes will have a dinner party. Too bad they don't list any a place or time, but if you're a fan too ... Cambridge, MA.

Ho Ho Holidays

Roxbury Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting
Mon 12/12

Now on to the Christmas themed events. Can't stop it, might as well enjoy it! I like the ones that have participatory carol... Marcella Park, 260 Highland St, Roxbury, MA.

Christmas Caroling at Hayes Park
Sun 12/18

It looks like this will be outdoors and they'll serve hot cider. Yum!! And the caroling is participatory. 4-5pm. Warren Avenue at West Canton St, Boston, MA.

Messiah Sing with Pilgrim Festival Chorus
Sun 12/18

Plimoth Plantation is one of New England's five historical re-enactment museums with live actors playing characters from history. It's fun to v... 8 Town Square, Plymouth, MA.

Breakfast with Santa at Battleship Cove & Carousel
Sat 12/17

This one seems to be oriented towards kids, but Battleship Cove features a real WWII battleship turned into a mus... 508-678-1100.Battleship Cove, Fall River, MA.

Polar Express at Wachusett Mountain
Sat 12/17

Santa arrives in a way that they say is a secret, except for the helicopter photograph, at this popular skiing site, not the biggest but probab... Wachusett Mountain, Princeton, MA.

Gingerbread Castle Competition
Sat 12/17

A guitarist and caroling form the background for this display of gingerbread houses that you can vote on. Fine, but can we EAT 'em? ... 508-853-6015.Higgins Armory Museum, Worcester, MA.

A Very Special Christmas WaterFire
Fri 12/16

Waterfire is a recurring event where metal baskets poke up on poles from the Providence River. Fill with wood and light on fire at night! 5-8:30pm. Free cookies, S... Providence, RI.

Visits with Santa Claus at the Newport Mansions
Sun 12/11 - Sun 12/18

Three of the mansions in Newport are open in the winter and Santa will visit on December 18. The mansions are a great place to go, and even i... Newport, RI.

Hearthside Dinner "Eat, Drink & Be Merry"
Sat 12/17

Hey! Let's cook 19th century style, led by costumed re-enactors. Reserve in advance. 603-323-7591.58 Cleveland Hill Road, Tamworth, NH.

Messiah Sing at Portsmouth, NH
Tue 12/20

Portsmouth is in Souther New Hampshire and easy to get to from Boston. I've been to an event like this elsewhere. Join a community and ... The Music Hall, 28 Chestnut St, Portsmouth, NH.

Community Carol Sing at Mystic Seaport
Sun 12/18

Similarly, Mystic, Connecticut is on the Eastern side and also not that far from Boston. It's an old-timey re-enactment museum with staff in period costume. 10am-4... Mystic, CT.

Holiday Sing-Along in Norwich, CT
Fri 12/16

I've searched far afield for Christmas Caroling you can join in on, and this is probably the furthest, but if you're in the area, hey -- free refreshments! 11-11:45am.... Norwich, CT.

Also Fun

Science on Screen: 12 Monkeys
Mon 12/12

The Coolidge Corner theatre is one of 3 great art house movie theatres near Boston, and they're bringing in a famous science journalist to lecture abou... Coolidge Theatre, Brookline, MA.

GeekFaire at Pandemonium
Sat 12/17

Hmm. I was expecting a bit more from a "Geek Faire" than vendors selling fan materials. After all, Pandemonium sells stuff year-round, but I guess these ve... Pandemonium Books, Cambridge, MA.

Truth, Lies and Politics
Thu 12/15

Barney Frank is the Massachusetts congressman and liberal icon who was the first openly gay man in congress. He's retiring -- go to this l... Leventhal-Sidman JCC, 333 Nahanton St, Newton, MA.

Jane Austen Holiday Tea & Tours
Sat 12/10 - Sat 12/17

And here's a re-enactment of "tea time" from the Victorian era at this old historical home of former Massachuset... 781-894-2798.Gore Place, 52 Gore Street, Waltham, MA.

Cookie Swap for a Cause
Sun 12/18

Bring cookies, eat cookies, it's all for charity. Cookie monster says: ME WANT COOKIES!. 2-5pm. 281 Summer St, Boston, MA.

Everyone Loves Latkes Party
Sat 12/17

We're about to get bowled over by Xmas, but let's acknowledge this free latkes event in Harvard Square. A latke is a potato pancake, from Jewish... Crema Cafe, 27 Brattle St, Cambridge, MA.

Grand Menorah Lighting on Boston Common
Tue 12/20

This menorah lighting on Boston Common goes completely undescribed. Last year they had some kind of music. 3pm. Boston Common near Park St. Subway, Boston, MA.

Chanukah Celebration in West Springfield
Tue 12/20

I've looked and looked for Chanukah events that don't take place in a synagogue, but there are damn few of them that I could find. T... Elm Street Common, West Springfield, MA.

Kwanzaa Concert
Fri 12/16 - Sat 12/17

This one's not participatory, which is a shame, because it's the only Kwanzaa event I've heard of. I don't... Roxbury Community College, Media Arts Center, 1234 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA.

Mark Twain Museum - my review
Tue 12/13

I went to the steampunk party last Saturday and got a tour of Mark Twain's boyhood home. Click for my review! Mark Twain House, Hartford, CT.

A Conversation with Jim Lehrer
Tue 1/25

Trust me, you don't want to wait for this. The JFK Library and Museum brings in some of the best speakers -- including newsman Jim Lehrer -- and they're usually... JFK Museum, Boston, MA.

Performance

New England Ringers Handbell Concert
Sat 12/17

I really want to see this! I've never been to a bell ringing concert although I've seen "change ringing", otherwise known as the most boring thing you can do with... Worcester, MA.

Dickens Dinner and A Christmas Carol
Fri 12/16

If you had to go see a Christmas Carol yet again, what better way to spice it up than with a real victorian dinner served while you watch. 6:30 pm. Westfield, MA.

Mrs. Bob Cratchit's Wild Christmas Binge
Thu 12/15 - Fri 12/23

Ha! This looks like a really creative parody / alternative telling of A Christmas Carol. The Towers, 35 Ocean Rd, Narragansett, RI.

Travel

Journey to the Future in Antarctica' at Mystic Seaport
Thu 12/15

Did you know that there are no ants in Antarctica? I just learned this! Learn youse somethin' at this book talk at 1:30pm,... Mystic Seaport, Mystic, CT.

Winterfest with Fireworks
Fri 12/16 - Sun 12/18

Night skiing, Santa, and a Bon Jovi Tribute Band adorn this celebration! Newry, ME.

Holiday Lights & Santa Events	grade	Mon 12/12	Tue 12/13	Wed 12/14	Thu 12/15	Fri 12/16	Sat 12/17	Sun 12/18	Mon 12/19
Stone Zoo's ZoolightsStoneham, MA 2011: 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, 617-989-2000. twitter facebook	B-	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Holiday LandscapesStoneham, 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	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Petting Zoo in front of Seasons Four Furniture StoreLexington, MA This is a merchant event with a petting zoo, Santa, elmo, face painting, singers, balloon animals, etc. I called and they couldn't be bothered to give me the dates, so this is my best guess. 1265 Massachusetts Avenue, 781-861-1200. facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
A "Little Women" Christmas at Louisa May Alcott's Orchard HouseConcord, MA This event includes re-enactors portraying historical characters found in "Little Women". Reservations suggested. 399 Lexington Road, 978.369.4118 x106. twitter facebook	?						S	S
Millis WonderlandMillis, MA This is a private home, not a commercial "attraction", but good. Slowest nights are Tuesday-Thursday. 2011: 6-10pm. 60 Causeway Street	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Edaville Railroad's Christmas Festival of LightsCarver, MA The biggest and best "holiday lights" display in New England is 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. They have a train ride, ferris wheel, carousel, and other rides, with 7 million lights. Tons of fun even for adults! 2011: Mon-Fri 4-9pm, Sat-Sun 2-9pm. Pine Street, 877-EDAVILLE. twitter facebook	A+			W	R	F	S	S	M
Bridgewater Festival Of LightsBridgewater, MA Free. 200,000 lights with a walk-through village. Santa, with free coffee and hot chocolate by an outdoor fireplace. 2010: Mon-Fri 5-8:30pm, Sat-Sun 5-9:30pm. 55 Alexander Drive, 508-279-2894. facebook	?					F	S	S
Enchanted Village at Jordan's FurnitureAvon, MA Free! It's a 1958 Jordan Marsh display that's been restored to health by Jordan's Furniture. Website is unclear for how long the display goes. Jordan's Furniture, 100 Stockwell Dr twitter facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
La Salette Shrine Festival of LightsAttleboro, MA 2011: 5-9pm. Very religious: it's a shrine. But I've been and it was nice anyway. Over 300,000 lights covering 10 acres. Trolley rides Fri-Sun. 947 Park Street, 508-222-5410.	B+	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Visit with Santa at Smolak FarmsNorth Andover, MA Santa's coming! 2011: Tree lighting Nov 26. Smolak Farms, 315 South Bradford St, 978-682-6332. twitter facebook							S	S
Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge VillageSturbridge, MA 2011: 4-9pm. Participatory caroling, Father Christmas, sleigh rides, magic shows, and more at my favorite re-enactment museum -- an entire village of old-timey actors and buildings! 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, 508-347-3362. facebook	?					F	S	S
A Christmas Journey at the Worcester EcotariumWorcester, MA 2011: Trips at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30pm. Elves help you board the The Polar Express train ride, and afterwards there's Santa and cookies. 222 Harrington Way, 508-929-2700. facebook	?						S
Springfield's Bright Night at Forest ParkSpringfield, MA 2011: Sun-Thu, 5-9pm, Fri-Sun, 5-11pm. 550,000 lights. Great! 2nd best to Edaville. Check out the Springfield Museums or zoo (open during school holidays in Dec) while you're there. Rt 83, 413-733-3800. facebook	A	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Santa's HouseWest Springfield, MA 2011: Mon-Fri 5:30-7:30pm. Sat & Sun 2:30-4pm, 5:30-7:30pm. Mittineague Park	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Look Park's Winter WonderlandFlorence, MA Hayrides, night lights, zoo. 39,000 bulbs. 2011: 4-9pm. Breakfast with Santa 12/3. 300 North Main Street, 413.584.5457. facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Heritage Museum Gardens AglowSandwich, MA 1 million lights. Toast marshmallows. Carousel. Santa in a Model T Ford. Music. 2011: 5-9pm. 67 Grove Street, 508-888-3300. facebook	?					F	S	S
Lighted Winter Wonderland & Santas Big Party at Charmingfare FarmCandia, NH Thousands of lights, a 30-minute horse drawn night ride. Live reindeer, Santa, costumed characters. Petting zoo. Evenings. Route 27, 603-483-5623. twitter facebook	?				R	F	S	S
Gift of Lights at New Hampshire Motor SpeedwayLoudon, NH More than a mile of LED lights to drive through in your car. Santa's Village, costumed characters. 2011: Sun-Thu 6-9pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10pm. 1122 Route 106 North, 888-926-7403. twitter facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
La Salette Shrine & CenterEnfield, NH Another very religious site has 45,000 evening lights spread across 30 acres. Here's the idea. Two kids said they saw the Virgin Mary, and the parents based an entire church on that. And I couldn't even get away with "the dog ate my homework"! 2011: 5-9pm except opening celebration 11/26. , 603-632-7087.	B	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Santa's Village Christmas MagicJefferson, NH Lights display, Santa, reindeer, rides. Days & Eves. Special New Years event 12/31. , 603-586-4445.	?						S	S
Candlelight Stroll at Strawbery BankePortsmouth, 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! 2011: Saturdays 5-9pm, Sundays 4-8pm. Marcy Street, 603-422-7514. facebook	A+						S	S
Holiday Light FantasiaHartford, CT You drive through this one. 2011: Sun-Thu 6-9pm, Fri-Sat 6-10pm. 1130 Maple Ave, 860-742-2267.	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Fantasy of LightsNew Haven, CT Benefits the Easter Seals. Was not able to confirm this is their 2009, not 2008, calendar. Open nightly. Light House Point Park, 2 Lighthouse Road, 203-777-2000.	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
WinterFest at Connecticut Trolley MuseumEast Windsor, CT Trolley ride through holiday lights, sing-along carols and meet Santa. 2011: 5-9pm. 58 North Road, 860-627-6540.	?					F	S	S
Festival of Silver Lights at Hubbard ParkMeriden, CT Dawn to dusk. No admission, just you drive through this decorated park anytime. Hubbard Park, 203-630-4259.	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M
Christmas by the SeaMystic, CT 2010:11am-4pm. Re-enactors sing sea chanteys and tell old timey stories. Gingerbread lighthouse contest. Old-timey ships, kids activities, printing press. 19th century magic show Dec 26-Jan 1. Mystic Seaport, 860-572-5365. twitter facebook	?				R	F	S	S
Lantern Light ToursMystic, CT This is a walk through a re-enactment museum portraying Christmas eve 1876! Wow!! 2011: 5pm to 8 or 9pm. Tours fill up, register in advance. Mystic Seaport, 860-572-5365. twitter facebook	?					F	S	S
Lights On LovleyPlantsville, CT Drive up and tune your radio to 96.1FM. 2011: Daily 5-11pm. 14 Lovley Dr facebook	?	M	T	W	R	F	S	S	M