August 22-30, 2011: Astronomy, Skydiving, & Native American Fests, Boston Carnival, Re-enactments, Bats in the Museum, Pirate Party, and Donkey Show Giveaway

Have you got a BlackBerry? I really need help testing my new mobile application. Please email me at johnny@eventsINSIDER.com. Also, if you know anything about Web design, please write to tell me why my CSS looks great in a regular browser but not on my handheld iPhone. (The font is too big.)

Meanwhile, don’t miss out! This is the last BIG week of 2011 for you to see outdoor movies and theatre (music runs a little further into September). Scroll way to the bottom of this week’s issue to see the largest list in New England, featuring 300 outdoor series.

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 Spring 2011 Guide, with over 720 off-beat attractions you won’t find in the blog!

The Week in Weird
The Donkey Show – ticket giveaway Boston Metro

Sat 8/27
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Have you seen The Donkey Show at Club Oberon? It’s a phenomenal mixing of Shakespearean themes with a disco dance party. I have seen it and it’s really a must-see. The show has now been playing for 2 years, and to celebrate, I have two pairs of tickets to give away! To win, go to the Events INSIDER Facebook Page and write about some New England destination (zoo, museum, hobby club, event), and the prizes will go to those whose posts fetch the most comments. Club Oberon, 2 Arrow St, Cambridge, MA.

more

Boston Carnival (Caribbean Festival) Boston Metro

Sun 8/21 – Sat 8/27
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Carnival picks up in Boston this week! There’s a kids carnival Sunday 8/21, a King and Queen carnival Thu 8/25, a parade Sat 8/27 morning followed by the main carnival in Franklin Park. Various, Boston, MA.617-635-3911.

more more more

Native American Cultural Awareness: Gathering of Eastern Tribes Boston Metro

Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

New England is full of Native American events — just click to see the full list — but there are only a couple that take place near Boston. Here’s one. Unfortunately, I could not learn any details, but since it takes place on Boston Common, it’s bound to be large and interesting. Boston, MA.

more

Connecticut River Valley Astronomers Conjunction Western Mass

Fri 8/26 – Sat 8/27
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

If I were in Western Mass, I think I’d go here, to one of the two big Massachusetts astronomer gatherings (The other is Aruna Hill). During the day, hear lectures and look safely at solar spots. During the night, see the stars under guidance by hobbyists and pros. Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center, Northfield, MA.

more

Plymouth Waterfront Festival South Shore

Sat 8/27
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

New England also has a ton of small town fairs and at first I was ready to assume that this event in Plymouth would be small & uninteresting. But it’s actually rather large with a great diversity of activities including a carnival, live music, and the Mayflower ship replica. A great excuse to visit Plimoth Plantation, too! 10:30am-7pm. Plymouth, MA.

more

New England Boogie – Skydiving Festival Northern Mass

Wed 8/24 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Not enough action for you? This is the largest skydiving event in New England. Up to 300 attend. I would go for viewing — it will be too busy for jumping, and I’ve heard that other skyjump centers are better, anyway. 165 Nashua Road, Pepperell, MA.978 433-9222.

more

Bats and Night at the Museum Boston Metro

Wed 8/24
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

It’s surprisingly fun to take on a museum as an evening activity. The Harvard Museum of Natural History host its final summer night, 5-8pm, where you pay half-price admission and get to see a documentary film and a lecturer talking about bats. I’ve been to a number of their evening events and they are always fantastic. Cambridge, MA.

more

Pi-Con Science Fiction Convention Springfield

Fri 8/26 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Or upgrade to alien spaceships! This smallish science fiction convention has the usual panels, workshops, guests, and costuming. You can play a Live Roleplaying Game or a videogame. Because we all know that the best way to spend a summer weekend is indoors playing videogames. Best Western Sovereign Hotel, West Springfield, MA.

more

Calling BlackBerry users! Help test my mobile app Boston Metro

Mon 8/22 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Did you know that I am writing a mobile application? I still need BlackBerry users to test the app! It only takes a few minutes and I could really, really use your help. Please email johnny@eventsINSIDER.com. Cambridge, MA.

Swedish Car Day Boston Metro

Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Sweden makes cars? As they as good as their chefs? Find out at yet another car show on the lawn at the Larz Anderson, Boston’s big wonderful auto museum. 15 Newton Street, Brookline, MA.617-522-6547.

more

North Country Moose Festival New Hampshire

Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Looking for an excuse to head up to the hills of New Hampshire? This festival has a car show, helicopter rides, the usual street crafts vendors & food & live music, and moose tours!! I went on one once and we saw meeses!!! How exciting! Main Street, Colebrook, NH.

more

Metro West Car Show Metro West

Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This one’s the smallest of the group of car shows this week, but will still feature 150 old timey automobiles! 11am-3pm. Ashland High School, 65 East Union St, Ashland, MA.

more

Winnekenni Cruise Day North Shore

Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Another car show’s going to be at a castle, sort of, on the North Shore. I’ve been to this venue, it’s scenic and you can go for a walk in the woods nearby. Haverhill, MA.978-521-1230.

more

An Evening with the Egrets of Plum Island North Shore

Thu 8/25
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Although it costs $32, if you’re in the area, it must be great to watch the birds as the sun sets. 4-8pm. Newburyport, MA.

more

Obstacle Course Race – Spartan Race North Shore

Sat 8/27 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Also on the North Shore, this small amusement park, known for its creative events, is holding a BBQ for spectators to watch modern-age “Spartans” climb over, under, and through all manner of obstacles: fire, mud pits, barbed wire, and more. And they’ll have live music. Starts at 9am and goes all day. Amesbury, MA.

more more

Seaside Pow Wow and Festival North Shore

Sat 8/27 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

While you’re up there, check out this intertribal American Indian event featuring dancing, story telling and arts and crafts. It’s free! Stage Fort Park, Gloucester, MA.978-281-2978.

more

Marshfield Fair South Shore

Fri 8/19 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

The summer is full of agricultural festivals, but this one’s quite close to Boston. They’ll have a demolition derby, 2 music tents, a carnival, and a “battle of the bands”. My idea: put the bands in the demolition derby cars. Now THAT’s a battle! Route 3A at South River St., Marshfield, MA.781-834-6629.

more

Also Fun
Free Fun Friday at Sturbridge Village and the Ecotarium Worcester

Fri 8/26
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Sturbridge Village is my favorite re-enactment museum in New England. They have large outdoor grounds where you can meet dozens of re-enactors who teach you about life in the 1840s: farming, pottery, blacksmithing, and much more. And Friday it’s free! I feel less strongly about the Ecotarium, which after the demise of their polar bear is an underaverage zoo. Yet, they have the only tree canopy walk in New England where you can learn about the animals that don’t live on the ground. Sturbridge, MA.

more

Pirate Party at Wenham Museum North Shore

Tue 8/23
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

The good news: it’s a pirate party! The bad news: it’s during work hours. 1-3pm. Rain or Shine. Pre-registration required. Silly games, treasure hunting, a water balloon battle, and tour the museum too. Maybe there will be a mutiny! ARRRRRRR! Wenham Museum, 132 Main Street, Wenham, MA.978-468-2377.

more

Antique and Classic Boat Festival North Shore

Sat 8/27 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Perhaps the pirates will headout to board these classic sailboats, powerboats, and hand-powered craft. Hawthorne Cove Marina, 10 White St, Salem, MA.

more more

Essex Music Festival North Shore

Sat 8/27
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This one caught my eye. Visitors are encouraged to bring along an instrument and play, but not if you’re really really bad. And they’ll have participatory dancing, and you can go swimming in their lake. 12-10:30pm. Centennial Grove, Route 22, Essex, MA.

more

Newport Arts Festival Rhode Island

Sat 8/27 – Sun 8/28
This festival is nothing special — art vendors and live music — but you’ve got to visit Newport’s cliffwalk and mansions before the warm weather’s gone! Newport Yachting Center, Newport, RI.

more
Feast of St. Anthony Boston Metro

Fri 8/26 – Mon 8/29
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I’ve never been to an Italian Festival, on the assumption it would be too religious. But I’m told they’re really not. Yet… they come with a religious mas, they have parades led by religious icons, and sing-a-longs that are presumably religious. The website describes it as the “largest Italian Religious Festival in New England”. So, sounds great if you believe in an invisible sky man who conveniently commands you to tithe. If not, well, it comes with live music, and two “Iron Chef” competitions. Endicott St, Boston, MA.617-523-7024.

more

Red Fire Farm Tomato Festival Springfield

Sat 8/27
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This one-food festival is rain or shine and comes with a road race, live music, and homey workshops. 7 Carver St, Granby, MA.413-467-7645.

more

Youth Battle of the Bands Springfield

Sat 8/27
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Every coming-of-age movie seems to involve a battle of the bands. Now you can join in the fun, and it’s free! West Springfield, MA.

more

Summer Brewfest at Indian Ranch Worcester

Sat 8/27
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I don’t really “get” beer events, because I want to spend my life being me, not a buzzed version of me. But this event isn’t just 25 microbrews. It’s also a live music festival by the shores of a lake, with blues and gospel performers, paddleboat rides, and games like pole-ish horseshoes. And you can live life to the fullest and form great memories you’ll remember forever by getting smashed. 200 Gore Rd, Webster, MA.

more

Performance
Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre at Salem Cross Inn Worcester

Fri 8/26
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

A murder mystery dinner is a creative and interactive way to see theatre. This one encourages you to find “musical clues”. Since when has any murder been solved with musical clues? Well… they’ll also have dancing. And dinner. 260 West Main Street, West Brookfield, MA.508-867-2345.

more

Transperformance: Royalty Springfield

Tue 8/30
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

If Boston is like San Francisco, then Northampton is our Castro area. Outside of Provincetown, which is a long drive, it’s the place to go regionally for transvestite entertainment, including this event where people dress up as kings, queens, Sir Elton John, and the mayor of Northampton will perform dressed as Lady Gaga. Oo la la! Northampton, MA.

more

Valve: Antique Vaudeville Circus Boston Metro

Fri 8/26
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Club OBERON hasn’t had an artistic failure yet, and here’s a chance to see a circus that’s geared for adults, not kids. WIth music, acrobatics, and vaudeville acts, with aerial acts and trapeeze artists, and a lot more, it’s bound to be good. Club Oberon, 2 Arrow St, Cambridge, MA.

more

TraniWreck at Club Oberon Boston Metro

Sun 8/28
Do I have to say more than TraniWreck and Club Oberon? It’s a combination of the best performers and best venue around. This time, the show is a fundraiser for a hospitalized founder of TraniWreck, everyone’s favor transgender show, so you’ve got an extra reason to attend! Club Oberon, 2 Arrow St, Cambridge, MA.

more more
Travel
Roaring 20’s Speakeasy and Casino Night New Hampshire

Sat 8/27
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This looks like fun! I can’t recall ever seeing a Roaring 20’s party before in New England, and the casino is for charity. Call for directions, but it’s on Rt 16 between Jackson and Gorham. Rt 16, Jackson, NH.

more

Schemitzun – Native American Festival Connecticut

Fri 8/26 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

The idea of the “Travel” section of my blog is to encourage you to spend a whole weekend outside Boston. These events may not be vastly interesting, but combined with the tourist sights you’ll see, worth a visit. This festival has native american arts & crafts, dancing, bull-riding, and singing. It’s just 2 hours away, as close as you can get to Boston and be in Connecticut. I’d love to see some native american dance that isn’t just slowly walking in a circle. Wintechog Hill Road, North Stonington, CT.

more

Annual Talent Show at Solair Nudist Resort Connecticut

Sat 8/27
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

What can make a nudist camp better? A talent show! You don’t have to have many talents. Just hop and we’ll watch mesmerized. Woodstock, CT.

more

The Great State of Maine Air Show Maine

Fri 8/26 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

This festival is just 2.5 hours from Boston, but it’s best perhaps to make a full weekend out of your trip to Maine. It’s an air show with fireworks, “powered parachutes”, and more air show. What more do you need? Brunswick, ME.

more

American Folk Festival Maine

Fri 8/26 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Here’s a music festival…. Bangor, ME.

more

Blistered Fingers Bluegrass Music Festival Maine

Thu 8/25 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

… and another one. Sidney, ME.

more

Acton Fair Maine

Thu 8/25 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

If you’re ever going to visit Maine, the warmest time of the year is when to go! Fiesta Shows will have their traveling carnival (which also tours much closer to Boston) and they’ll have pig racing, horse & ox pulling, a parade, and all kinds of agricultural goodness. Acton Fairgrounds, Rt 109, Acton, ME.

more more

Recycle Art: Sculpture Garden Maine

Wed 6/1 – Sat 10/1
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

Although you will find arts and culture, and plenty of nature activities, it’s impossible to visit Maine without allowing yourself… to breathe. Just calm yourself and enjoy being part of nature. That’s when you notice all the gems of small towny goodnes that abound. For example, there is a metal sculptor who works with scrap metal and whose backyard has more than 1,000 sculptures… whimsical, series, beautiful, and great for a stroll around. Waldoboro, ME.207-832-4938.

more

Queechee Scottish Festival Vermont

Sat 8/27
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I’ve got very little interest in Vermont, but a Scottish Festival might draw me there! Quechee Polo Field, Quechee, VT.

more

Civil War Encampment Event Vermont

Sat 8/27 – Sun 8/28
The idea of an encampment is that re-enactors, who are history buffs, pitch tents for a weekend just like they would have in the Civil War. You can talk with them, learn history, get inspired by their enthusiasm — these people are mostly nuts, in a good way — and see a mock battle. West Dover, VT.

more
Champlain Valley Fair Vermont

Sat 8/27 – Mon 9/5
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

The Champlain Valley Fair includes a demolition derby, a tractor pull, and a ton of famous names, like Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Doobie Brothers. Champlain Valley Exposition, 105 Pearl St., Essex Junction, VT.802-878-5545.

more

Star Light, Star Bright Star Night Vermont

Sat 8/27
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I like to throw in these small events from time to time, like this stargazing event, to remind you that it’s not just Boston that has wonderfully weird events off the beaten path. Hubbardton, VT.

more

Maryland Renaissance Festival at Silver Springs Maryland

Sat 8/27 – Sun 8/28
Boston Events INSIDER, by Johnny Monsarrat

I prefer to stay in New England, but I’m told that this is the best Renaissance Faire on the east coast and worth a trip. Crownsville Road, Crownsville, MD.

more

 

Outdoor Theatre & Events grade Mon 8/22 Tue 8/23 Wed 8/24 Thu 8/25 Fri 8/26 Sat 8/27 Sun 8/28 Mon 8/29
Boston MetroBoston, MAWaterfront Performing Arts Series   T            
2011: 6-8pm. Boston Ballet, Boston Lyric Opera, Riverside Theatre Works and the Boston Pops.
Christopher Columbus Park, 105 Atlantic Ave
more
North ShoreSalem, MARebel Shakespeare           S S  

Winter Island, 978-457-2344.
more
Northern MassGreenfield, MAEnergy Park Music Series       R        
2011: Various times.
more
Western MassLenox, MAFree Outdoor Bankside Festival   T   R     S  
Every performance in the Rose Footprint Theatre is outdoors.
Rose Footprint Theatre
more
Western MassPittsfield, MA“Shades of the Revolution” A Ghostly Re-Enactment of People, Places and Scenes from Pittsfield’s Past       R        
2011: 7pm.
Pittsfield Cemetery, 203 Wahconah St
more
New HampshireNashua, NHShakespeare in the Park   T W          

more
New HampshireSalem, NHCanobie Lake Park Fireworks           S    

more
ConnecticutGuilford, CTShakespeare on the Green M T W R F S S M
Some shows in a park, some on a boat!
, 453-8134, x 301.
more
MaineOld Orchard Beach, MEFireworks @ Old Orchard Beach       R        
2011: 9:45pm.
Next to the Pier
more

 

Outdoor Movies grade Mon 8/22 Tue 8/23 Wed 8/24 Thu 8/25 Fri 8/26 Sat 8/27 Sun 8/28 Mon 8/29
Boston MetroArlington, MAArlington Movie or Astronomy Night           S    
2011: 8 PM. Light refreshments will be sold.
Robbins Farm Park
more
Boston MetroBoston, MAMagic 106.7 Family Film Festival           S    
2011: Entertainment at 6pm, movies at sundown.
Lawn at the Prudential Center
more
Boston MetroBoston, MANeponset River Greenway Festival & Movie Series       R        
2011: Events at “sunset”… 8pm-ish. Some events come with park activities beforehand. 7/5: Daddy Day Care, 7/12: Iron Man 2, 7/19: Megamind, 7/26: Despicable Me, 8/2: How to Train Your Dragon, 8/4: How to Train Your Dragon, 8/9: Tangled, 8/11: Tangled, 8/18: Toy Story 3, 8/25: Rango.
Tue: Martini Shell, Truman Pkwy, Hyde Park. Thu: Pope John Paul Park, Gallivan Blvd, Dorchester, 617-542-7696.
more
Boston MetroBoston, MAOutdoor – Movies by Moonlight         F      
2011: Silver screen and modern classics. Fridays. Free. Start at “dusk”.
70 Rowes Wharf, 617.439.7000.
more
Boston MetroBoston, MAOutdoor Film at the Chinatown Gate       R F S S  
2011: Dates announced; specific details TBA. All films have Chinese audio and English subtitles.
Vacant paved lot on Hudson Street between Beach and Kneeland Streets
more
Boston MetroBoston, MAWBZ Free Friday Flicks at the Hatch Shell         F      
2011: Fridays at “sundown” (about 8:30pm, come early and bring a picnic dinner) at the hatch shell on the Esplanade.
Esplanade, 617-787-7200.
more
Boston MetroCambridge, MASummer in the City Movies     W          
2011: 7pm performance, then movie. Rain date 7 days later.
Varies, sometimes Bank at 292 Cambridge St.
more
Boston MetroSomerville, MACity of Somerville Annual Movie Series       R        
2011: Dusk.
Various locations, 617-666-3311.
more
Boston MetroWoburn, MAFamily Night & Outdoor Movie   T            
2011: Food & kids concert 6pm, movie 8:15pm.
Library Park
more
Boston MetroWoburn, MAMovie on the Field   T            
2011: 7/26 amd 8/23 at dusk.
North Suburban YMCA, 137 Lexington
more
Metro WestNeedham, MAAugust’s Flicks on the Field           S    
2011: 8/27 Toy Story 3 @ 6:30 PM.
Claxton Field, off Central Avenue
more
South ShoreHingham, MAMovies at Hingham Shipyard       R        
2011: At dusk.
Hingham Shipyard
more
Southeast MassMansfield, MAMovies with the Stars     W          
2011: Held on the South Common. In case of rain, Town Hall or the Church on West Street. Times vary.
South Common
more
Southeast MassNorton, MAMovies Under the Stars         F S    
2011: 8:15pm.
Winslow Farm, 37 Eddy Street
more
Cape CodFalmouth, MAMovies Under the Stars     W          
2011: Films begin at dusk. Rain date Sep 25.
Peg Noonan Park, Main Street, 508-540-7724, 508-487-3424.
more
Cape CodSandwich, MAFamily Movie Night Under the Stars         F      
2011: pre-show activities start at 6pm.
Heritage Museums & Gardens, 508.888.3300 x100.
more
New HampshireHampton Beach, NHMonday Night Movies on the Beach M             M
2011: at dusk.
more
New HampshireNorth Conway, NHMovies on the Green   T            

Settlers Green Outlet, Rt 16, 603-356-7031 x10.
more
more
Rhode IslandNewport, RIMovies on the Rock     W          
2011: at dusk.
more
Rhode IslandProvidence, RIMovies on the Block       R        
2011: Dusk. Also Pineapple Express 9/22, Purple Rain on 9/29, and Withnail & I (which is AWESOME and HILARIOUS) on 10/6.
Westminster St at Union St
more
Rhode IslandWesterly, RIBig Screen Movie on the Beach @ Westerly   T            
2011: 8:30pm Kids-oriented.
Misquamicut Beach, 401-596-7761 or 401-348-2597.
more
ConnecticutNorwalk, CTIt’s 2 Cool Outdoor Movies           S    
2011: Kids activities at 5:30 or 6 and then movie at dusk.
Shady Beach
more

 

Outdoor Music grade Mon 8/22 Tue 8/23 Wed 8/24 Thu 8/25 Fri 8/26 Sat 8/27 Sun 8/28 Mon 8/29
Boston MetroBelmont, MAPayson Park Music Festival     W          
2011: 6:45pm except Fridays which are 12pm kiddie concerts.
Payson Park, 617-993-2760.
more
Boston MetroBoston, MAArts on the Arcade     W          
2011: Art vendors 11 AM-3 PM with live music 12-2 PM..
City Hall Plaza
more
Boston MetroBoston, MABoston Phoenix/WFNX block parties       R        
2011: 5- 8 PM.
Summer Street
more
Boston MetroBoston, MAConcerts in the Courtyard at Boston Public Library         F      
2011: Fridays 12:30-1:30 PM. Lineup TBA.
Central Library in Copley Square, 617-536-5400.
more
Boston MetroBoston, MAHarborWalk Sounds & Free ICA Night       R        
2011: Live music: various types, outside the ICA, which is free Thursday nights.
Institute for Contemporary Art
more
Boston MetroBoston, MALandmarks Orchestra Summer Concerts     W          
2011: 7 PM. Free. The July 31st show will be at the Pinebank Promontory in JP.
At the Hatch Shell
more
Boston MetroBoston, MAMFA Concerts in the Courtyard     W          
2011: Concerts at 7:30 PM.
Museum of Fine Arts, 617-369-3189.
more
Boston MetroBoston, MARock and Blues Concert Cruises S              

more
Boston MetroBoston, MASounds of the Garden Summer Concert Series     W          
2011: 6:30 – 7:30 PM.
Various
more
Boston MetroBoston, MASpecial Live Concerts at Boston Harbor Hotel   T W R        
Outdoor music: Soul on Tuesdays, Oldies on Wednesdays, Blues on Thursdays, all 6-10pm.
Rowes Wharf, Boston Harbor Hotel
more
Boston MetroBoston, MASpectacle Island Music in the Park Series             S  
2011: 12- 4 PM.
Spectacle Island, Visitors Center Porch, (617) 223-8666..
more
Boston MetroBoston, MASummer Music Series in Norman Leventhal Park   T            
2011: 12-2 PM.
Post Office Square
more
Boston MetroBoston, MATitus Sparrow Park Summer Concert Series     W          
2011: 6:30pm.
Titus Sparrow Park, South End, 617-918-5289.
more
Boston MetroBoston, MAWaterfront Performing Arts Series   T            
2011: 6-8pm.
Christopher Columbus Park
more
Boston MetroBoston, MAWhole Note Wednesdays     W          
2011: Jazz every Wednesday 6-9 PM. Free.
The Liberty Hotel, 215 Charles Street, 617-244-4000.
more
Boston MetroCambridge, MACentral Square Music in the Square       R        
Times? Called.
Central Square
more
Boston MetroCambridge, MAClub Passim Summer Concert Series       R        
2011: 1-2 PM.
47 Palmer St.
more
Boston MetroCambridge, MAKendall Square Concert Series       R        
2011: 12-1:30pm.
300 Athenaeum Street, 617 577-7354.
more
Boston MetroCambridge, MALongfellow Family Sundays Art in the Park             S  
2011: Mostly family and children-oriented. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Most events 1-3:30 PM.
105 Brattle Street, 617-876-4491.
more
Metro WestConcord, MAMusic at the Manse Concert Series             S  
2011: Most Sundays 2-4pm. And Sep 26.
The Old Manse, 269 Monument Street, 978.369.3909.
more
more
Metro WestLexington, MASummer Concert Series         F      
2011: 6:30pm.
Lexington Visitors Center, 1875 Massachusetts Ave., 781-862-2480..
more
Metro WestLexington, MATuesday Night Concerts   T            
2011: 7:15pm.
Hastings Bandstand, Worthen Road at Old Mass Ave, 781-862-0500 x707.
more
Metro WestMarlborough, MASummer Concert Series at Marlborough       R        
2011: 7-9pm.
more
North ShoreDanvers, MASummer Concert Series at Danvers M              
2011: 6pm.
Danvers Rotary Pavilion, 978-777-0001 x3094.
more
North ShoreHaverhill, MAWinnekenni Castle Concerts             S  
Free. 2010: 2pm or 7pm. If rain, concert will be indoors.
Winnekenni Castle, 347 Kenoza Ave
more
North ShoreIpswich, MACastle Hill Summer Picnic Concerts       R        
Dancing & music overlooking Crane Beach. Come at 6pm for swing dance lessons! Call ahead to order a picnic dinner basket.
Castle Hill, 978-356-4351 x4015.
more
North ShoreLowell, MALowell Summer Music Series         F S    
2011: Music 7:30pm-10pm.
Boarding House Park
more
North ShoreLynn, MASummer Beach Concerts       R        

Red Rock Park on the beach at Lynn Shore Drive.
more
North ShoreSalisbury, MASurfSide Live!           S    
2011: 7:30- 10 PM followed by fireworks!
Salisbury Beach Center, 3 Broadway Street
more
North ShoreTopsfield, MATopsfield Concerts on the Common             S  
2011: 4-6pm.
Town Common
more
LowellBillerica, MASummer Concerts on the Common at Billerica   T            
2011: 7pm.
Town Common, 978-671-0921.
more
Northern MassGardner, MAConcerts in the Parks           S    
2011: 6pm.
Monument Park
more
South ShoreHingham, MALive Music at the Hingham Shipyard         F      
2011: Fridays at 7pm.
more
South ShorePlymouth, MAWednesday Night Concerts     W          
2011: 6:30-9:30pm.
Pilgrim Memorial Park, Water Street
more
Southeast MassDartmouth, MASummer Concert Series at Dartmouth     W          
2011: 6:30-8:30 PM. Not free.
more
Southeast MassNantucket, MASummer Concerts at Children’s Beach             S  
2011: 6-7:15pm.
Children’s Beach
more
Southeast MassTaunton, MAFabulous Family Fun Day Concert Series         F      
2011: 5-8pm.
more
Southeast MassWestport, MAWestport Rivers Winery Concert Series         F      
2011: 6-8 PM. $5 per car load.
417 Hixbridge Rd, 508-636-3423.
more
Southeast MassWrentham, MAConcert on the Common             S  
2011: 6:30-8:30pm.
Town Common
more
WorcesterNorthborough, MASummer Concert Series             R  
2011: 6-8:30pm.
Ellsworth-McAfee Park (Rt. 135)
more
WorcesterSturbridge, MASturbridge Summer Concerts       R        
2011: 6pm.
Town Common, 508-347-2506.
more
WorcesterUpton, MASweet Summer Nights Music Series         F   S  
2011: Fridays from 7-8:30 PM and Sundays 1-5 PM. Events continue through September. Rain or shine.
more
WorcesterWorcester, MAOut to Lunch Concert Series         F      
2011: 11am-2pm.
Worcester Common
more
SpringfieldSpringfield, MABike Night at Stearns Square       R        
2011: 7:30-9pm. Rain or shine.
Stearns Square
more
SpringfieldWest Springfield, MAFamily Concert Series at West Springfield       R   S    
2011: Various times.
Various
more
SpringfieldWestfield, MAMusical Moments In Amelia’s Garden   T            
2011: Free. Rain or shine.
21 South Broad Street
more
SpringfieldWestfield, MASummer Sounds Concert Series   T            
2011: 6:30PM.
Municipal parking lot on Church Street, 413-572-1260.
more
Western MassGreenfield, MACoop Concerts & More       R        
2011: Several different series going on. Check schedule for specifics.
Greenfield Energy Park, 413-774-9949.
more
Western MassSouth Hadley, MASummer Concert Series at South Hadley, MA       R        
2011: 6:30-8pm.
Town Common, Rt 47 & Rt 116
more
Western MassWilliamstown, MAConcerts at the Clark   T            
2011: Other concerts on their calendar are indoors.
225 South St., 413-458-2303.
more
Cape CodBuzzards Bay, MAConcerts in the Park at Buzzards Bay       R        
2011: 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Last date is a rain date.
Park at the Gazebo
more
Cape CodHarwich, MAHarwich Town Band Free Concerts   T            
2011: 7pm. No website but called to confirm. Aug 1st is at the tech school with a UK band in attendance.
Brooks Park Band Stand, Harwich Center, Oak St, Cindy 508-432-3622.
more
Cape CodOnset, MASummer of Love Concerts     W          
2011: 6:30pm.
Onset Bandshell
more
more
Cape CodOsterville, MASummer Concert Series       R        
2011: 6-7pm.
Library Lawn
more
Cape CodWest Yarmouth, MAYarmouth Monday Night Concerts M             M
2011: 7pm.
Mattacheese Middle School Bandshell, Higgins Crowell Road, 508-778-1008.
more
New HampshireBartlett, NHSummer Concert in the Park     W          
Called (Times?).
Bartlett Village Community Park, 603-374-1952.
more
New HampshireGorham, NHSummer Concert Series   T            
2011: 6:30pm.
Gorham Common
more
New HampshireHenniker, NHHenniker Summer Concert Series   T            
2011: 7pm. If rain, at Community Center.
Bandstand, Community Park
more
New HampshireManchester, NHFriends of Stark Park Concert Series             S  
2011: Mostly 2pm, check site.
more
New HampshireMerrimack, NHMerrimack Concert Association     W          
2011: 7pm.
Abbie Griffin Park Bandstand
more
New HampshireNashua, NHSummerfun Outdoor Concerts at Nashua     W          
Greeley Bandshell or Library Plaza. Fairy Tale Festival 7/17.
Greeley Park
more
New HampshireNorth Woodstock, NHTown of Woodstock Free Concert Series           S    
2011: 6:30-8:30pm.
Soldier’s Park, 603-745-8752.
more
New HampshirePortsmouth, NHPrescott Park Arts Festival     W   F      
Outdoor theatre and live music. Peter Pan!
Prescot Park, Marcy St at Mechanic St, 603-436-2848.
more
New HampshireRochester, NHConcert on the Common Summer Music Series   T            
2011: 7pm.
more
New HampshireSalem, NHField of Dreams Concerts       R        
2010: 6:30pm.
Field of Dreams
more
New HampshireSalem, NHTalent Search Night at Canobie Lake Park       R        
2010: Hundreds compete for free park passes and a chance to record a professional demo CD. Register at 5:30pm.
Canobie Lake Park
more
New HampshireTilton, NHSavina Hartwell Memorial Free Summer Concert             S  

, 603-286-3000.
more
New HampshireWaterville Valley, NHSaturday Evening Concert Series           S    

Town Square
more
Rhode IslandCentral Falls, RIFree Sunday Summer Concert Series             S  

Jenks Park, Broad St, 401-727-7490.
more
Rhode IslandCoventry, RIConventry Summer Concert Series             S  
2011: 6pm. If rain, Community Center Hall, 1277 Main St, Rte 117.
Various
more
Rhode IslandLincoln, RIFree Summer Concert Series           S    
2011: 5:30 or 6pm.
Chase Farm, 667 Great Rd
more
Rhode IslandNarragansett, RISummer Concerts at the Gazebo         F      
2011: 6pm.
Gazebo
more
Rhode IslandPawtucket, RISundays/Tuesdays at City Hall Ampitheatre             S  
2011: Sundays 5pm, Tuesdays 6pm. No website but called to confirm.
City Hall Ampitheatre
more
Rhode IslandPawtucket, RISlater Park Concert Series   T   R        
2011: Tuesdays for kids, 5pm. Thursdays 6pm. No website but called to confirm.
Slater Park
more
ConnecticutBranford, CTBranford Jazz on the Green Series       R        
2010: 6:30-8:30pm.
more
ConnecticutDanbury, CTCitycenter Summertime Festival         F S    
2011: 7:30pm.
CityCenter
more
ConnecticutEast Hartford, CTAnnual Sounds of Summer       R        
2011: 6:30-8:30 PM. Not free.
Town Green, 1047 Main St
more
ConnecticutFairfield, CTSummer Concerts at the Sherman Green Gazebo     W       S  
2011: 7pm, except 9/1, 9/2 @ 6:30pm.
Sherman Green Gazebo
more
ConnecticutGreenwich, CTSummer Concert Series at Greenwich, CT     W       S  
2011: 7:30pm. July 7 at Binney Park. July 31 @ 7pm.
Roger Sherman Baldwin Park
more
ConnecticutNaugatuck, CTNaugatuck Summer Music Festival   T            
2011: 7-9pm. Rain dates & locations vary.
Town Green
more
ConnecticutNewtown, CTSummer Concert at Dickinson Park         F      
2011: 6:30pm.
more
ConnecticutNorth Haven, CTMusic Under the Stars   T            
2011: 7pm.
Town Green
more
ConnecticutNorwalk, CTNorwalk Parks Concert Schedule     W          
2011: 6 or 7pm. Rain dates one day later.
Calf Pasture Beach, 203-854-7806.
more
ConnecticutShelton, CTMusic Under the Stars     W          
2010: 7-9pm.
, 203-331-4120.
more
ConnecticutTrumbull, CTSummer Concerts at Trumbull   T            
2011: 7pm.
Town Hall Gazebo
more
VermontDanville, VTConcerts on the Green             S  
2011: 7pm. If rain, Danville United Methodist Church.
more
VermontStratton, VTSaturdays Under the Stars – Summer Concert Series           S    
2010: 6-9pm.
Stratton Mountain Ski Resort, 802.297.4FUN.
more

 

Love this blog? Subscribe to email, Facebook, or Twitter and please tell your friends and get the FREE 27-page Spring 2011 Guide, with over 720 off-beat attractions you won’t find in the blog!