MASSACHUSETTS

The Salem Cross Inn hosts a series of 1700s-style feasts, prepared on the open hearth of their fieldstone fireplace. Relax by the fire or lend a hand as dinner is prepared in Colonial style. Stir the chowder in cast iron cauldron. See your prime rib, roasted "to a turn" on the only Roasting Jack still operating in America. Or browse the extensive collection of Colonial and Federal period American antiques. The menu for the Fireplace Feast include savories, New England chowder, prime rib, rolls and muffins, roasted potatoes, spinach pie, squash, apple pie and whipped cream. Fish entrée available during Lent. Dates in 2012: January 8, 15, 21, 22, 29; February 4-5, 10-12, 18-19, 25-26; March 3-4, 10-11, 17, 31; April 1, 7, 14-15, 21, 22, 28.
Time: Weekdays, arrive 6:30 p.m. and feast begins at 8 p.m.; Saturdays, arrive at 5:30 p.m. and feast begins at 7 p.m.; Sundays, arrive at 12:30 p.m. and feast begins at 2 p.m.
Admission: Adults, $55; children under age 10, $25.
Information: 508-867-2345 or visit http://www.salemcrossinn.com/DiningEvents/fireplacefeast.asp

Osterville will sweeten the season! All sorts of "chocolate" events, activities and treats.
Information: 508-428-6327 or visit www.ostervillevillageassociation.org

Hosted by TV Diner’s Billy Costa, lamb loving chefs will create luscious lamb dishes paired with local beers from area breweries and compete for the title of Boston Lamb Master and an opportunity to battle other top lamb-loving chefs at a Master Lamb Jam this fall. Chefs who woo the crowds and win the hearts of judges will take home awards for Best in Show and People’s Choice. Attendees will see butchery demonstrations by Chefs Chris Douglas & Nuno Alves of Tavolo and Butcher Josh Pert.
Information and tickets: 617-864-1200 or visit www.FansofLambBoston.com.

Berkshire Grown chefs will create a maple-inspired dinner to celebrate maple sugaring season as a fundraiser for Berkshire Grown and Share the Bounty project. Several chefs will join host Brian Alberg, executive chef of The Red Lion Inn to create a delicious multi-course meal featuring local ingredients available at this time of year. Chefs include Lester Blumenthal of Route 7 Grill; Christopher Bonnivier of Gala Steakhouse & Bistro at The Orchards Hotel; Adam Brassard of Williams Inn; Peter Platt of The Old Inn on the Green; Gregg Roach of Wild Oats Market; Dan Smith and John Andrews of a Farmhouse Restaurant.
Information: 413-528-0041.

Join an evening filled with the love letters of John and Abigail Adams, historic chocolate processing, chocolate and cheese tasting, and musical entertainment. John and Abigail's love letters will be presented as presented by Patricia Bridgman and Thomas Macy. After the performance, meet John and Abigail in the Bullard Tavern and enjoy period chocolate processing demonstrations, a chocolate and cheese tasting, and musical entertainment. Before the performance, enjoy a romantic Valentine's Dinner in the Oliver Wight Tavern. Reservations requested; space is limited.
Information: 508-347-3362 or visit www.osv.org/museum/

Learn about the history of chocolate - from bean to beverage. Old Sturbridge Village historians will demonstrate processing chocolate by hand using cacao beans in the original manner of ancient Mexico, where chocolate originates. They will use a metate to grind freshly roasted chocolate nibs to make a hot, spiced chocolate drink. Children can make their own valentines and visitors of all ages can meet the local woman responsible for the popularity of sending valentines in the United States.
Information: 508-347-3362 or visit www.osv.org/museum/