Sep 20-27, 2011: Astronomy Night, Civil War & Renn Faires, Fluff Fest, Innovations of Yesteryear, Life is Good Fest, Steely Dan + 2 Club Oberon Giveaways

Summer is over but Halloween is here! I keep the largest list of Halloween venues in New England (there are more than 100). Nobody else even lists 30, and those who try don’t put the loving touches on spelling out hours of operation and precisely which days are open. Please tell your friends.

Also this week I am introducing a new Corn Maze section. They all have daytime hours and most have nighttime events, some of which are Halloween themed! Make sure to bring a flashlight, and call ahead because corn mazes often close if it rained the previous day, due to mud still not drying up.

Did I miss anything? Please email johnny@eventsINSIDER.com to let me know. I hope you are having an awesome week. Now get out there and do something fun!

-Johnny

p.s. Love this blog? Subscribe to email, , or and if you help get the word out, I’ll put you on my priority list to win free stuff and send you the FREE 27-page Events INSIDER New England Guide, with over 720 off-beat attractions you won’t find in the blog!

The Week in Weird
Phantom Gourmet Food Festival – tix giveaway Boston Metro

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This event is commercial, but for $40 you can sample food from 80 restaurants. I’ve attended and the quality is good, but they sell out so buy in advance. This year I have a pair of tix to give away, donated by the 2012 Ford Focus. To win, tweet “Follow @OddBostonEvents @FordcastTour + RT to win 2 Phantom Gourmet 9/24 Food Fest tix! #FocusVIP”. Landsdowne St., Boston, MA.

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King Richard’s Faire – ticket giveaway South Shore

Sat 9/3 – Sun 10/23
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I have more tickets to give away for King Richard’s Faire, for Sep 24-25 only! You can try archery, axe throwing, and pillow fighting. To win twist my arm by saying how much you’ve been spreading the word to friends about Events INSIDER to johnny@eventsINSIDER.com. (And thanks!). 235 Main St, Carver, MA.508-866-5391.

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Steely Dan at the Wang Theatre – tix giveaway Boston Metro

Wed 9/28 – Sat 10/1
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Steely Dan will perform at the Wang Theatre, showcasing both greatest hits and deep cuts, and an “idealistic strategy for World Peace” that hopefully includes ROCKING OUT! Each of the shows Wed 9/29, Fri 9/30, and Sat 10/1 feature different music… And you can request your favorite songs at the website. Wang Theatre, Boston, MA.

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Justin Bond & BLINK at Club Oberon – tix giveaway Boston Metro

Wed 9/21
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Club Oberon is the only never-fail venue in Boston, and I have 4 tix to give away for Tony-nominated performer Justin Vivian, an evening of stories and song Wed Sep 21, and 2 tix for BLINK, a high school reunion dance & theatre performance you join in on , Sep 25! Email johnny@eventsINSIDER.com. Club Oberon, Cambridge, MA.

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Newport Mansions – tix giveaway Rhode Island

Mon 9/19 – Sat 12/31
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Like Salem and Plymouth, Newport is a destination that’s worth the trip just for the permanent attractions. By day, walk the oceanside cliffwalk, see the beaches, and tour some of the dozen historic mansions. I was just there and it’s overpoweringly immersive to experience the opulence of the 1900 era. Email johnny@eventsINSIDER.com to win a pair of tix. Newport, RI.

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Arlington Astronomy Night Boston Metro

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I’m totally thrilled by this park telescope night. They’ll be showing off Jupiter. 8pm. Robbins Farm Park, Arlington, MA.

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Colonial Faire & Muster of Fyfe & Drums Metro West

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I’m always a fan of Revolutionary War re-enactors. This event will have plenty, doing a mock battle, with games, drill instruction, vendors, and fyfe and drum. Rain date following day. 2011 10am-4pm. Wayside Inn, Rt 20, Sudbury, MA.

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Civil War Living History Weekend on Lawrence Common Lowell

Sat 9/24 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I love re-enactments, a very creative way to learn some history, and the actors are super-passionate. This seems to be a major Civil War re-enactment festival, with battles and… whatever else it is that re-enactors do. Virginia re-enactors will be there, too. Lawrence, MA.

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Salem Village Renaissance Days North Shore

Sat 9/24 – Sat 10/1
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Salem Village is a re-enactment attraction with live actors, just like Plimoth Plantation, and they’re going renaissance the next two weeks, with human chess games, tug of war, birds of prey, storytelling, live music, and “wench” auctions. Pioneer Village, Salem Park, Salem, MA.978-867-4767.

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Fluff Fest Boston Metro

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Did you know that Marshmallow Fluff was invented in Somerville? This outdoor fest draws 10,000 with food, vendors, games, a NASA astronaut who brought fluff into space, and even the actress who played Cindy on The Brady Bunch. Rain date next day. 3-7pm, but activities the whole weekend. Union Square Plaza, Somerville, MA.617-623-1392 x119.

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Innovations of Yesteryear Metro West

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

How does such a small venue host such big creative events? It must be magic. Shoot a catapult, see steam engines, try a quill pen and a 1920s typewriter, and get “hands on” with 50 other exhibits. I promise you will enjoy this. Charles River Museum of Industry, Waltham, MA.

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Grotonfest Metro West

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This festival has the usual live music, artists and vendors, but adds an animal show and fireworks! Yippee! Have you figured out yet that I try to feature EVERY New England festival with a parade, fireworks, or hot air balloons? Legion Common, between Route 119 and Hollis Street, Groton, MA.

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Jamaica Plain Open Studios Boston Metro

Sat 9/24 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

An open studios is an excuse to walk around an urban community, visiting local artists at their homes or working studios, not just merchants at a mall. It’s a good activity for fall because you’re partly outdoors, partly indoors. Jamaica Plain, MA.

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Life is Good Festival Boston Metro

Sat 9/24 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This fundraiser has 3 stages of live music, a bike stunt show, juggling, birds of prey, dog show, and wacky games like a sack race, obstacle course, a rock climbing wall, a dog acrobatics show, and a seed spitting contest. Yes, you can get there on the commuter rail! Prowse Farm, Canton, MA.

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Mercedes Day at the Larz Anderson Museum Boston Metro

Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

The Larz Anderson has another of its classy lawn festivals, this time featuring mercedes. Mercedeseses. Mercs. 15 Newton Street, Brookline, MA.617-522-6547.

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BMW Day at the Larz Anderson Museum Boston Metro

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

And another for BMWs. Does anyone even know what BMW stands for? It’s awesome to have a major automobile museum in our metro area. It’s a great indoor/outdoor event for fall weather. 15 Newton Street, Brookline, MA.617-522-6547.

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Danehy Park Family Day Boston Metro

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Cambridge is having a festival, too. This one’s for kids, and those who are kids at heart. They’ll have arts & crafts, amusement park rides, but sort of kids-only. Fly a kite, hear live music, enjoy a nice day in a park. 11am-4pm. Danehy Park, 99 Sherman St., Cambridge, MA.617-349-4301 or 617-349-6229.

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Fall Exhibition at the LAB Boston Metro

Fri 9/23
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I sort of don’t get this, but it’s free and you get to see 11 student projects, sort of like an arty science fair promoting water purification, plus cocktails, a short film about time perception, and a lecture about “experiential” education! 6-9pm. Cambridge, MA.

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Tufts Community Day Boston Metro

Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Not much happens in Medford. So, this is your chance to catch something happening! You’ll find a complimentary lunch, community booths (think fire safety), live music and dance, and kid stuff like pumpkin painting and the ubiquitous face painting. Rain or shine. Shuttle from Davis Square subway stop. 11am-3pm. Tufts University, Medford, MA.

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Massachusetts Independent Comics Expo Boston Metro

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Before there were blogs, there were ‘zines. And before there were Web comics, there were… actual comics. Go see. 10am-6pm. Art Institute of Boston, 700 Beacon St, Boston, MA.

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BioBlitz at the Seacoast Science Center New Hampshire

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This seashore science center invites you to help find and count animals, for biodiversity research. Bring boots and meet super-passionate biologists. Slideshow presentation and “other activities”. Come anytime 6am-5pm. 570 Ocean Blvd., Rye, NH.603-436-8043.

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SCA’s Golden Tygre Tavern Rhode Island

Fri 9/23 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Themed like a medieval tavern, the Society for Creative Anachronism presents a historical re-enactment that you can join in on, with mock fencing, thrown weapons, live music and dance, and fireside singing. Westwood YMCA Camp, 2095 Harkney Hill Rd, Coventry, RI.

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Iron Chef (with real Iron) Rhode Island

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This is an outdoor sculpture competition, and it’s free! Rain date: next day. 27 Sims Ave, Providence, RI.

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Birds of Prey at David Farmland Worcester

Sat 9/24 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Davis Farmland combines birds of prey with a corn maze! Irresistable! Note: you have to bring kids along to get into the farmland attraction, but anyone can do the amazing corn maze. They have apple picking, hay rides, and a lot more. 145 Redstone Hill, Sterling, MA.978-422-8888.

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Earthdance Western Mass

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Using the Internet, everyone dances with music that’s synchronized all over. There may be a site in Boston, I didn’t look that hard, but here’s one in Stockbridge, home of the Norman Rockwell Museum, and Chesterwood, of the sculptor who made the Lincoln Memorial. Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, Stockbridge, MA.

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Emily Dickinson Poetry Marathon and Baking Contest Western Mass

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

How awesome is this? They’ll read all of Emily Dickinson’s 1,789 poems in 18 hours, from 7am to 1am. It’s the same day as their anniversary celebration, and they’ll have a special play and tours. 280 Main Street, Amherst, MA.413-542-8161.

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The Praying Indian Natick and Ponkapoag Tribe: Harvest Moon and Creator Praise Day Celebration Metro West

Sat 9/24 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

You’ll see a huge array of native american festivals on this website. I’ll list the biggest for you throughout the year. Only a few are this close to Boston. Cochituate Lake, Rte.30, Natick, MA.508-622-0189.

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Working Waterfront Festival Southeast Mass

Sat 9/24 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This is your chance to learn why the fisherman in The Perfect Storm became heroes for stupidly heading into a storm. It looks quite interesting. They’ll have demonstrations of net mending, trap making, book readings, dance, music, learn knot tying, etc. Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 3, New Bedford, MA.

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Muppets, Music & Magic Northern Mass

Mon 9/19 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Here’s a film festival featuring Muppets that also has lecturers who’ve worked with Jim Henson! You can meet the guy who does the voice of Elmo. That’s good, right? Images Cinema, 50 Spring St, Williamstown, MA.

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The 2012 Ford Focus at the South Boston Street Festival – Our Review Boston Metro

Sat 9/17
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

If you happened to make it to the South Boston Street Festival this Saturday, then you experienced a real treat. Click for our review and a writeup of the Ford Focus 2012 booth! Boston, MA.

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our review and photos

Eastern States Exposition – Our Review Springfield

Fri 9/16 – Sun 10/2
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

The Big E is New England’s largest agricultural fair! I just attended and it’s enormous. My favorite part is the circus, but you’ll find a giant carnival, a small parade, a horse show, A-list musicians, and tourism bureau Mecca – six buildings of New England pamphlets and travel info! 1305 Memorial Avenue, West Springfield, MA.

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Also Fun
MFA College Night Boston Metro

Thu 9/22
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

The MFA is free, if you have a college ID! Or can fake one! Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA.

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Free Museum Day Boston Metro

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

But that’s not all! Another 40 museums are free through some kind of promotion. Boston’s Old South Meeting House. Cambridge’s Peabody Archaeology & Natural History Museums, Lincoln’s Codman Estate & Gropius House. Gropius is a super fun word to say. All Around, Nationwide.

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Faire on the Square Boston Metro

Sat 9/24
Watertown is having a street fair. Rain or shine. Free. They’ll have an apple pie contest, live music including “doo wop” and a capella, martial arts, and juggling. Saltonstall Park, in and around Town Hall, Watertown, MA.

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BeanTown Jazz Festival Boston Metro

Fri 9/23 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Does anyone under 40 care about jazz? Nobody wrote me last year to complain when I said this. This series of performances includes a street festival, Sat Sep 24, 12-6pm. Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA.

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Allston Village Street Fair Boston Metro

Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This multicultural festival claims to draw 100,000 people. Although it’s mainly a vendor street festival, they’ll have 3 stages of live music and dancing. 12-6pm. Allston, MA.

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Powisset Farm Fall Festival Metro West

Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Is it just me, or does cider pressing make you feel bad for the apples? Except the ones who deserve it of course. Powisset Farm, Dover, MA.

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Trails & Sails Weekend North Shore

Fri 9/16 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This “festival” is really a series of 140 independent events all over the region, like Civil War Baseball, Lynn’s Fallfest, and kayak, walking, and 1812 schooner sailing tours. There’s a shuttle from Boston at http://ipswichessexexplorer.com/. Various areas, Ipswich, MA.

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Family Harvest Festival North Shore

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

At this festival you can “see farm equipment”. What, we can’t drive around in it? They’ll have a pie-eating contest and a hay bale maze. 11am-4pm. Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm, 5 Little’s Lane, Newbury, MA.978-462-2634.

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Marblehead Fall Festival North Shore

Sat 9/24 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

They’ll have horse-drawn hay rides, a scavenger hunt, and a car show, plus the usual vendors at this chamber of commerce event. Marblehead, MA.

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Andover Days Northern Mass

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This fair features a live music by Jason Spooner and Beetlejuice, and “activities” they could not be bothered to describe. 10am-5pm. Main Street, Andover, MA.

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Italian Fest in Haverhill Northern Mass

Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This one’s more like it, taking the small fair, live music concept and making it creative with a spaghetti sauce challenge, a bocce tournament, and Miss Italy Pageant. Haverhill, MA.978-373-5663.

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Japanese Tea Ceremony South Shore

Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

And you thought the British liked tea! The Japanese make a whole production of it. This presentation will show you how. 2pm. It’s free. Duxbury, MA.

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Creature Double Feature Round Up Southeast Mass

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

And then Godzilla storms into the tea ceremony. ROWWWWWRR! Oh look! It’s a giant robot heading this way! Maybe they’ll fight! Sheraton, 1125 Boston-Providence Turnpike, Norwood, MA.

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Higgins Festival of Ale Worcester

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I sincerely hope you can find something more creative and active to do than to get buzzed. So I don’t list many alcohol fests. But the Higgins is a fantastic museum of the history of suits of armor and weaponry. And they’ll have live music, educational seminars, and a BBQ in addition to the ales. 6-9pm. 100 Barber Ave, Worcester, MA.508-853-6015.

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Annual Mass. Outdoor Expo Worcester

Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Also in the Worcester area, stop by and learn to shoot and fish wildlife, archery, rock climbing, and other braggable manly stuff. Sturbridge, MA.

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Annual Country Fair at Hancock Shaker Village Western Mass

Sat 9/24 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This agricultural fest comes with wagon rides and a pie contest, at a historic re-enactment museum. First Two Blocks of North St, Pittsfield, MA.413-443-6501.

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Apple Squeeze Festival Western Mass

Sat 9/24 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Although I could not find a description, with the right attitude, you can turn this street festival into a true celebration. I just feel bad for the apples. AAAAH! Don’t squeeze me!! Lenox, MA.413.637.3646.

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Lee Founder’s Weekend Western Mass

Fri 9/23 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Oo! A parade, latino dance fest, and puppet show spice up this street fest with vendors and live music. Lee, MA.

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Bourne Scallop Festival Cape Cod

Fri 9/23 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

On Cape Cod: a festival based on a single food. I’ve seen so many ads for this that it’s hard to believe the festival is based on scallops. I guess there’s a powerful scallop lobby. They claim that 50,000 people will attend, with the usual art and craft vendors, carnival rides and live music. What real estate genius chose the name “Buzzards Bay”? Main Street, Bourne, MA.

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Jazzfest Falmouth Cape Cod

Tue 9/20 – Sun 10/2
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Yo Daddy-o. It’s jaaaaaaaazz. Falmouth Harbor Band Shell, Falmouth, MA.

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Literally Salem (Literature Festival) North Shore

Fri 9/23 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Of course you’re classy. So check out this literature festival and go to author talks, parties, open mics, and workshops. Various Locations, Salem, MA.

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Pawtucket Arts Fest: Open Studios & Film Fest Rhode Island

Fri 9/9 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

The Pawtucket Arts Festival is really a series of festivals, not a contiguous event. This week they feature an open studios walk where you can meet real artists (not merchants) in their homes and work studios, and a film fest. Slater Memorial Park, 401 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket, RI.

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Open for Dancing Rhode Island

Wed 9/21 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I sort of don’t get this, but it’s a combination of dance performance and dance workshops where you can join in. They’ll have panel discussions and you can lunch with the artists, too. Are dancers artists? I thought they were performers. Newport, RI.401 847-4470.

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Out At Plimoth Plantation South Shore

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Would the Pilgrims have approved of an entire day to celebrate gay and lesbian lifestyles at this re-enactment museum with dozens of live actors? Fuck ’em. They’re dead. I think this is awesomely surreal. Plimoth Plantation, Plymouth, MA.

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Boston Film Festival Boston Metro

Fri 9/16 – Thu 9/22
The Boston Film Festival is your alternative to enjoying the last few warm days of the year. Imagine yourself in February thinking “I’m glad I spent time indoors in September!” That being said, the festival does draw several celebrities and directors, including the producer of the award-winning film, The Fighter. And they’ll have afterparties. Stuart Street Playhouse, Boston, MA.617-621-1202.

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Hub on Wheels Boston Metro

Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Have you ever noticed that when Cambridge closes Memorial Drive for rollerblading (there is already a jogging path so joggers don’t count), few people use it, and nearby it creates a huge traffic jam? So who’s genius idea was it to CLOSE DOWN STORROW DRIVE FOR BICYCLES? Various, Boston, MA.

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Vintage Baseball Doubleheader North Shore

Sat 9/17 – Sun 10/2
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Teams demonstrate the old-timey original rules of baseball. Also October 2nd. Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm, 5 Little’s Lane, Newbury, MA.978-462-2634.

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“Secrets & Miracles” Flower Show Cape Cod

Fri 9/23 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I’ve been to the Heritage Museums and Gardens, and they have spectacular grounds, plus an auto museum, an art museum, and a carousel. Believe me, you are missing out if you’ll be in the area and don’t stop by this flower show. 10am-5pm. Heritage Museums & Gardens, 67 Grove St, Sandwich, MA.508.888.3300.

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Rochester Fair New Hampshire

Fri 9/16 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Fiesta Shows’ traveling carnival continues to make the rounds, and they’ll also have racing pigs, a giraffe exhibit, and a demolition derby. Rochester, NH.

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Winchester Pickle Festival New Hampshire

Fri 9/23 – Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

What a pickle they’ve gotten themselves into! This will pickle your fancy. Parade, “pickle themed” costumes and bands. Hee hee! Main Street, Winchester, NH.

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Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival New Hampshire

Sat 9/24 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

What do you do with a drunken sailor? Put him in the long boat ’til he’s sober, earlie in the mornin’! Portsmouth, NH.

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Performance
Next Fall – theatre – our review Boston Metro

Fri 9/16 – Sat 10/15
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Next Fall was a Tony-nominated Broadway show last year, like The Book of Mormon. Yet, it is also about religion. One man is a Christian. One man is an Atheist. They’re a gay couple, and there’s laughter and heartbreak. Click for our review, 4.5 out of 5 stars! Speakeasy Stage Company, 539 Tremont St, Boston, MA.

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our review

Murder Mystery Theatre at the Newport Art Museum – Our Review Rhode Island

Sat 10/1 – Sat 12/17
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Awesome alert! This murder mystery theatre in Newport lets YOU solve the crime! It’s interactive, accessible, and fribbly. It’s so good that I just invented the word fribbly to describe it! Click for our fribbly review – 4.5 out of 5 stars! Newport Art Museum, Newport, RI.

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our review

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead: A Tragicomedy Boston Metro

Fri 9/16 – Sat 10/1
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I’ve seen this play (although not this production) and this comedic masterpiece retells Shakespeare’s story of Hamlet from the perspective of the courtiers Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. It’s hiliarous and arty, a good combination. Eliot Hall, 7A Eliot St, Jamaica Plain, MA.

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1.21 Jigowatts: An Improvised Tribute to Back to the Future Boston Metro

Tue 9/13 – Fri 10/14
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

ImprovBoston is my favorite comedy venue, and they’re doing a parody of the classic film, Back to the Future. Plus it’s a fundraiser for Parkinsons disease. ImprovBoston, Cambridge, MA.

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Shakespeare in the Park – “Othello Rhode Island

Fri 9/23
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I’m pretty sure this is outdoors, making it automatically awesome. 7pm. India Point Park, Providence, RI.

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FirstWorksProv Rhode Island

Thu 9/22 – Sat 11/12
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This random series of performances and gallery exhibitions is also not a real ‘festival’. But a number of its concerts look interesting. Various Places, Providence, RI.

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Our Bodies, Ourselves Cabaret Show Boston Metro

Thu 9/22
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I sort of don’t get this, but it’s at Club Oberon, so it’s bound to be good. Inspired by a book about women loving their own bodies, which is hot, um, I mean is totally appropriate and worthy of respect, here’s a burlesque with acrobatics, belly dance, burlesque, live music, and hula hooping. Now that’s hot! Cambridge, MA.

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Travel
Connecticut Star Party Connecticut

Fri 9/23 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Here’s another weekend of outdoor astronomy. Meet enthusiasts who will show you the stars. Ashford, CT.

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The Greater Danbury Irish Festival Connecticut

Fri 9/23 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This fest has a stage for music, a stage for dance and more music, and a Halloween parade, along with other kids stuff. Danbury, CT.

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Pipes in the Valley – A Celtic Celebration Connecticut

Sat 9/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This festival looks great! Too bad it’s so far from me here in Boston. Mortensen Riverfront Plaza, Hartford, CT.

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New Hampshire, VT, ME Day at Southwick’s Zoo Southeast Mass

Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

If you live in New Hampshire, Vermont, or Maine, it’s your turn to get free admission to New England’s largest zoo. 2 Southwick Street, Mendon, MA.800-258-9182.

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Nor’Easter Festival Vermont

Fri 9/23 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

It’s not a great idea to have a festival during a Nor’easter, but these guys don’t know that with their 3 day outdoor music festival atop once of the most picturesque places in New Hampshire. Burlington, VT.

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Adirondack Ballon Festival New York

Thu 9/22 – Sun 9/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

If you really feel like a long drive, there’s ballooooooons out theeeerreee. Glen Falls, NY.

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Halloween Attractions grade Mon 9/19 Tue 9/20 Wed 9/21 Thu 9/22 Fri 9/23 Sat 9/24 Sun 9/25 Mon 9/26
Boston MetroBoston, MAGhosts and Gravestones Tour (in Boston) ? M T W R F S S M
7 nights a week. 1.5 hour tour. Claim to be grounded, not “paranomal” weirdness. 100% moneyback guarantee. Evening tours hourly. Reserve way ahead for late October.
, 617-908-8230.
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Southern MassFall River, MAFactory of Terror B         F S    
Haunted house. Rt 195E to exit 5. Left off exit. Behind Dunkin Donuts. See website coupon. 2011: M-R 6:30-10pm, FS 6:30-11pm.
18 Pocasset Street
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North ShoreSalem, MASalem Halloween Happenings & Year-Round Attractions C+ M T W R F S S M
Haunted houses. Frankenstein’s Laboratory, The Haunted Witch Village (Salem Witch Village).
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South ShoreAbington, MABarrett’s Haunted Mansion A+         F S    
Rt 3S to Rt 18S. Great! See website coupon or get one at the restaurant next door. 2011: 7-10:30pm.
1235 Bedford St, 781-871-4573.
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New YorkUlster Park, NYHeadless Horseman A           S    
Haunted house. Outside New England but a “Top Ten in USA” haunted house according to the industry magazine.
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Cornfield Mazes (Day/Night) grade Mon 9/19 Tue 9/20 Wed 9/21 Thu 9/22 Fri 9/23 Sat 9/24 Sun 9/25 Mon 9/26
WorcesterSterling, MADavis MegaMaze Halloween Fright Nights A           D D  
My favorite corn field maze is across the street from a big petting zoo with hayrides, go carts, and apple picking. It’s the best!! They have night mazes with telescopes and Halloween nights with monsters!
145 Redstone Hill
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Metro WestFramingham, MACorn Maze at Hanson’s Farm ? D D D D D D D D
Days only. 2011: 9am-6pm.
20 Nixon Rd, 508.877.3058.
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North ShoreIpswich, MAMarini Farm Corn Maze Flashlight Nights ? D     D N N D D
2011: Mon Thu Fri 3-7pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-6pm. Some nights, bring your own flashlight, 6-10pm.
259 Linebrook Rd, 978 471-9203.
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North ShoreDanvers, MAHaunted Cornfield at Connors Farm Corn Maze ? D D D D D D D D
2011: Daily 9am-6pm. See website for coupon. Halloween night maze some nights. Singles night Oct 8. Halloween Kids Day Oct 31.
30 Valley Road (Rt. 35), 978-777-1245.
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LowellDunstable, MAGoss Farm Corn Maze ?           D D  
There’s no Halloween theme this year, but is a corn maze open some nights! Days Sat Sun 10am-5pm. 14 15 21 22 28 29.
446 Pleasant St, 978-649-7688.
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Northern MassHaverhill, MAKimball Farm Haunted Maze B+ D D D D D D D D
2011: Daily, mainly 10am-6pm. Some nights to 8:30pm. October nights, costumed actors chase you around a maze cut into a corn field at night! Small but combine it with a visit to the Castle of Fear, also in Haverhill.
780 East Broadway, 978-521-3990.
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South ShorePlympton, MASauchuk Farm Corn Maze ?           D D  
2011: Days 10am-6pm. Last admission 1 hour before close. Some nights. Bring a flashlight.
234 Center Street
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WorcesterWhitinsville, MAWest End Creamery Corn Maze ?         D D D  
2011: 12-6pm. Some flashlight nights.
481 Purgatory Road, 508-234-2022.
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Western MassSunderland, MAMike’s Maze at Warner Farm ?           D D  
2011: 10am-5pm. Last ticket sold at 5pm. No nights.
South Main Street, 413-665-8331.
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Rhode IslandPortsmouth, RIEscobar’s Highland Farm Corn Maze ? D D D D D D D D
2011: 10am-dusk except Fri (3:30pm), Sun (11am). No nights. Pumpkin Fest 9/24. Harry Potter 10/15. Halloween Party 10/29.
251 Middle Road, 401-683-1444.
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New HampshireEast Conway, NHMaze Massacre at Sherman Farm ?           D D  
2011: 10am-5pm (to 4pm after 10/15). Haunted nights, 7-9pm. Some dates non-scary for kids.
, 603-939-2412.
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New HampshireLee, NHCoppal House Farm Night Maze ?     D D D N D  
2011: Weekdays 12-5pm, Sat Sun 10am-5pm. Some nights 7-9pm. Bring a flashlight. Not “haunted”. Huge bonfire. Free cider & donuts.
118 North River Road (Route 155), 603.659.3572.
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New HampshireHopkinton, NHBeech Hill Farm & Ice Cream Stand ? D D D D D D D D
Daily 11am-dusk. No nights.
107 Beech Hill Road, 603-223-0828.
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New HampshireMeredith, NHMoulton Farm Corn Maze ? D D D D D D D D
2011: 8am-6pm. No nights. $5. Trivia questions in the maze.
18 Quarry Road, 603-279-3915.
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New HampshireMilford, NHTrombley Gardens Corn Maze ? D D D D D D D D
Days to 6pm. Saturdays in October haunted maze to 9:30pm.
150 North River Road, 603-620-5785.
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ConnecticutThompson, CTFort Hill Farms Corn Maze Adventure ? D D D D N N D D
Sun-Thu 10am-5pm, Fri-Sat 10am-10pm. Bring a flashlight.
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ConnecticutSouth Windsor, CTFoster Family Farm Corn Maze ? D D D D N N D D
Sun-Thu 10am-6pm, Fri-Sat 10am-9:30pm. Last ticket 9pm. Bring a flashlight.
90 Foster Street, 860-648-9366.
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ConnecticutNorth Granby, CTSpookfest at Hayes Corn Maze ?         N N D  
2011: Website says 2010 but I called to confirm dates. Fri 4-9pm, Sat 12-9pm, Sun 12-6pm. Bring a flashlight.
Hayes Dairy, 151 East St, 860-653-4157.
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ConnecticutMiddlefield, CTLyman Orchards Corn Maze ?     D D D D D  
Corn maze but also a SUNFLOWER maze! 2011: Wed-Fri 3-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm. No nights.
Routes 147 & 157, 860-349-1793.
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MaineYork, MEZack’s Corn Maze Flashlight Tag ?         D D D  
2011: Fri-Sun 12-6pm. Nights Fri-Sat, 7-10pm. Play flashlight tag!
7 Colby Turner Rd, 207-475-7857.
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MaineDayton, MEPumpkin Valley Farm Corn Maze ?           D D  
2011: Sat-Sun 10am-6pm. Some nights, last admission 8pm.
Union Falls Rd, 207-929-4545.
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MaineFarmington, MESandy River Farms Corn Maze ?           D D  
2011: Sat-Sun 10am-4pm. Haunted maze nights 6-9pm.
560 Farmington Falls Rd, 207-778-3835.
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MaineCorinna, METhunder Farm Road Corn Maze ?           D D  
2011: Sat-Sun 10am-6pm. Nights 6:30pm-10pm with haunted hayrides!
185 Newport Rd. Rt. 7/11, 207-278-3708.
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VermontWeybridge, VTWeybridge Gardens Haunted Corn Maze ?         N N D  
2011: Days Fri 12-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm. Some nights, 7pm to last admission at 10pm. Non-scary for kids during daytimes. Haunted dates fall on Sundays?? Think that’s a leftover from 2010.
181 Thompson Hill Rd, 802-545-2306.
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VermontDanville, VTThe Great Vermont Corn Maze ? D D D D D D D D
2011: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. Some haunted nights, starting 7:30pm. Haunted attraction has 3 buildings not just the corn maze.
1404 Wheelock Road, 802-748-1399.
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