2020 Calendar of Events, Things to Do in CT, RI, MA, VT, NH, and ME

February School Vacation: Off The Wall at Tower Hill Botanic Garden -- Boylston MA

Feb 17, 2020 - Feb 23, 2020 Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Drive, Boylston, MA

Cure your cabin fever and connect with nature this February vacation. Create your own nature inspired graffiti art and join us for drop-in crafts, nature walks, family workshops, and more. Activities include Plant Mache, Storytime, Garden Discoveries, Family Zentangle, Family Nature Walk, Tag It! Mural making, GraffiTees, Terrarium making, and Graffiti With Croc. See garden website for programming and scheduling details.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Adults, $16; seniors 65 and older, $11; youth age 6–18, $6; kids age 5 and younger, free

Silly Soirée at Boston Children's Museum -- Boston MA

Feb 29, 2020 - Feb 29, 2020 Boston Children's Museum, 308 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02116

The annual Silly Soirée is a formal party and fundraiser that allows kids and their grown-ups an evening of dinner and dancing kids’ style. Timeline: Explore the museum from 6 to 8:30 p.m.; dinner from 6 to 7 p.m.; DJ and Dancing from 7:30 to 8 p.m.; dessert at 8 p.m. Exhibits will be open to attendees, with a special art activity and group games. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All proceeds from the event allow children and families to access the Museum

6-8:30 p.m.
$40-$75, depending on how early reservation is made

Dr. Seuss Birthday Party in Harvard Square – Cambridge MA

Feb 29, 2020 - Feb 29, 2020 Harvard Square Cambridge, MA

Come celebrate the 116th birthday of America’s favorite kids’ author with these events:
Public reading of “Green Eggs and Ham” in the Harvard Coop vestibule (1400 Massachusetts Avenue) along with complimentary Green Eggs and Ham, birthday cake and ice cream. Noon-1 p.m.
Dr. Seuss story time, playful activities and giveaways at the Harvard COOP. 1-2 p.m. No registration is necessary for these free activities. Charles Square Parking Garage is offering a parking special of $15 for five hours on Saturday February 29.

Noon-2 p.m.
Free

“She The People: Girlfriends’ Guide To Sisters Doing It For Themselves” – Boston MA

Feb 18, 2020 - Mar 8, 2020 Calderwood Pavilion, 527 Tremont Street, Boston, MA

“She the People: Girlfriends’ Guide to Sisters Doing It for Themselves” was created by the funny women of world-famous comedy creation machine The Second City. “She the People” roasts the patriarchy in a mashup of sketches and songs that reclaims comedy for everyone! One hour and 45 minutes, with one ten-minute intermission. This production includes strobe light effects.

Curtain times vary; consult event website
Consult event website

Total Loss: A Comedy Show About Death – Somerville MA

Mar 20, 2020 - Mar 20, 2020 The Rockwell, 255 Elm Street, Somerville, MA

Will Martin’s car died, his friend died, his new car died, then his brother died. All of this turned into a tale of road trips, diner coffee, and a dive bar in Montana. Half comedy show, half tribute, Total Loss is about the thing we never joke about and one thing we all have in common.

Doors open 9 p.m.; show at 9:30 p.m.
$18

Erma Bombeck: At Wit’s End -- Lowell MA

Apr 22, 2020 - May 17, 2020 Merrimack Repertory Theatre, 50 E. Merrimack Street, Lowell, MA

A celebration of humorist Erma Bombeck, "At Wit’s End" shares the wisdom of a woman and wtier who championed the everyday lives of housewives with a daring truth.

Curtain times vary; consult event website
$26-$43
978-654-4678

Worcester County Dance Festival -- Worcester MA

Apr 18, 2020 - Apr 18, 2020 Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge Street, Worcester, MA

Recent festivals have hosted more than a dozen groups performing more than 30 different pieces with a wide range of dance that included Bharatanatyam, Latin, jazz, flamenco, Greek, contemporary and ballet.

7-10 p.m.
$20
877-571-7469

Rocky Woods Easter Egg Hunt and Brunch -- Medfield MA

Apr 11, 2020 - Apr 11, 2020 Rocky Woods, Hartford Street, Medfield, MA

Children will participate in an Easter egg hHunt while parents enjoy Bloody Marys and mimosas. Children should bring a small basket for collecting eggs. Easter Egg Hunt will take place before brunch; please arrive at start time to participate in the egg hunt. Brunch will be served at 11 a.m. Seating is community style. Reservations are accepted for parties of eight or more. Pre-registration is required. Walk-ins not accepted.

10 a.m.-1 p.m.; hunt at 10 a.m.; bruch at 11 a.m.
Adults, $52; kids, $24
508-785-0339

Frost Fit Winter Series -- Boston MA

Feb 1, 2020 - Mar 28, 2020 Fiedler Field on the Charles River Esplanade, Boston, MA

The Frost Fit Winter Series presents a series of 13 workouts every Saturday in February and March. Instructors lead you through an hour-long high intensity interval training. Please see website link and register.

10-11 a.m.
Free

Yoga and Wine Tasting at Wachusett Mountain -- Princeton MA

Feb 25, 2020 - Mar 26, 2020 Maple Room Suite, Wachusett Mountain, 499 Mountain Road, Princeton, MA

Bring your own yoga mat, towel, water, yoga attire. Yoga Class Run by Kate's PowerHouse. Wine Provided by Martignetti Wines. For guests age 21 and older.

Yoga, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.; wine tasting, 7:30-8 p.m.
$25

Wine & Food Lovers’ Weekend at MGM Springfield

Mar 6, 2020 - Mar 7, 2020 MGM Springfield, One MGM Way, Springfield, MA

New England Public Media, the new alliance of NEPR and WGBY, raises funds for educational programming by selling tickets to two nights of decadent sampling.

Wine, Beer & Food Tasting is Friday, March 6, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. The tasting will feature more than 200 wines, craft beers, and specialty foods, at MGM Springfield. $55-$100

Wine & Food Lovers’ Dinner is Saturday, March 7, from 6 to 10:30 p.m. This is a seven-course fine dining event hosted by Amy Traverso, the senior food editor at Yankee magazine. She will create a menu inspired by the New England food traditions and trends. $185

See description above
See description above

Exhibit: “Beyond Midnight: Paul Revere” – Worcester and Concord MA - Concord and Worcester, MA

Feb 15, 2020 - Jun 7, 2020 Concord Museum and Worcester Art Museum Concord and Worcester, MA

The Concord Museum and the Worcester Art Museum present "Beyond Midnight: Paul Revere." Paul Revere artworks and collectors’ objects will show the entrepreneurial spirit of Paul Revere and his impact on the political life of the United States. Revolutionary Revere at Concord Museum examines Paul Revere’s work during the Revolutionary War. Revere the Maker at Worcester Art Museum presents objects that show Revere’s skill as an artisan. On view through June 7, 2020.
Concord Museum , 53 Cambridge Turnpike, Concord, MA. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA. Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

See description above
See description above

The Art of Wooden Boatbuilding – Salem MA

Feb 29, 2020 - May 23, 2020 Essex National Heritage Area, 10 Federal Street, Suite 12, Salem, MA

The Art of Wooden Boatbuilding Series is a five-part series explores the principles behind the design and construction of traditional wooden boats. Participants will work at several traditional boatyards within the Essex National Heritage Area. Workshops are limited to 30 participants. Call Ryan Conary at 978-740-0444.
February 29 -- The Art of Wooden Boatbuilding opening lecture with Justin Demetri and Harold Burnham at NPS Regional Visitor Center. 10:30 a.m.
March 28 -- Building the Schooner at Essex Shipbuilding Museum. 9 a.m.
April 25 -- The Fit-Out at Maritime Gloucester. 9 a.m.
May 9 -- Rigging a Tall Ship at Salem Maritime Historic Site. 9 a.m.
May 23 -- Building the Dory at Lowell's Boat Shop. 9 a.m.

See description above
All five sessions, 250; individual sessions, $75.

"Voyage of Mercy" Book Launch at USS Constitutions Museum -- Charlestown MA

Mar 16, 2020 - Mar 16, 2020 USS Constitution Museum, Building 22, Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, MA

In 1847, the USS Jamestown set sail from the Charlestown Navy Yard loaded with food to ease suffering during the famine in Ireland. Come hear the remarkable story by joining us at the book launch of Stephen Puleo’s "Voyage of Mercy: The USS JAMESTOWN, the Irish Famine, and the Remarkable Story of America's First Humanitarian Mission" at the site where it all began. This event will include an author talk, and reception with traditional Irish music. Seating is limited, and advance registration is recommended.

6-8 p.m.
Free

Women and Witchcraft -- Salem MA

Mar 29, 2020 - Mar 29, 2020 Salem Witch Museum, 19 1/2 Washington Square North, Salem, MA

Commemorate Women's History Day in Salem by meeting two special women from 1692. Stop in to the Salem Witch Museum and meet Ann Dolliver and Ann Pudeator, who were accused of witchcraft during the Salem witch trials. Our costumed reenactors will be in our front vestibule answering questions, discussing the latest events of March 1692, and opening a window into the women’s world of the seventeenth-century.

Noon-4:30 p.m.
$10-$13

Tank Demo Days at American Heritage Museum – Hudson MA

May 9, 2020 - May 10, 2020 American Heritage Museum, 568 Main Street, Hudson, MA

The American Heritage Museum will showcase several tanks and armored vehicles through unique demonstrations on the museum grounds. Tanks such as the M24 Chaffee, M4A3 Sherman and M10 Tank Destroyer will operate through a course of obstacles and challenges. Veterans and armor experts will describe the history of each tank. Rides will be available in the M5 high speed tractor and M10 Wolverine tank. This event repeats on July 18- 19 and August 15-16.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.
978-562-9182

Mardi Gras Masquerade Speakeasy -- Worcester MA

Feb 22, 2020 - Feb 22, 2020 Secret Atrium, 1 Exchange Place, Worcester, MA

Step onto Bourbon Street of the late 1920s at this night of Mardi Gras drinking, dancing, and debauchery at the Secret Atrium (behind Michael's Cigar Bar!), music by Emperor Norton's Stationary Marching Band. Enjoy a photo booth , Prohibition-era cocktails, burlesque by Harley Foxx and Bettysioux Tailor, and tarot readings by Mal E' Fiscient. For guests age 21 and older.

Doors open 8:30 p.m.; party at 9 p.m.
Advance, $29; at the door, $35

Nina Simone: Four Women -- Lowell MA

Feb 12, 2020 - Mar 8, 2020 Merrimack Repertory Theatre, 50 E. Merrimack Street, Lowell, MA

The show is based upon Nina Simone’s song “Four Women,” about the four girls killed in the 1963 church bombing in Alabama. Fearing for their lives in a basement across the street from the church, the women grapple with sorrow and rage, and Nina begins her transformation from songstress to civil rights activist. Songs include “Mississippi Goddam,” “I Loves You, Porgy,” “To Be Young, Black and Beautiful,” and “His Eye Is on the Sparrow.”

Curtain times vary; consult event website
$24-$46
978-654-4678

Crashfest 2020 -- Boston MA

Feb 22, 2020 - Feb 22, 2020 House of Blues Boston, 15 Lansdowne Street, Boston, MA

With a large dance floor and balcony seatings, Crashfest presents 10 bands on three stages. Two social action stations will offer opportunities to take action for refugee and immigrant communities. Global street food will be for sale. International custom cocktails will also be available for sale. The 2020 lineup includes Fela! The Concert, Fatoumata Diawara, Cha Wa, Betsayda Machado, Albino Mbie, Los Cumpleaños, Immi & The Mahoots, Ezekiel’s Wheels Klezmer Band, Atlas Soul. Wondertwins, Soles Of Duende,Soumaya Marose.

5:30 p.m.
$48-$55

New England Winter Blues Festival 2020 -- Salisbury MA

Feb 22, 2020 - Feb 22, 2020 Blue Ocean Music Hall, 4 Ocean Front North, Salisbury, MA

Headliner for 2020 is soul, blues and R&B vocalist Curtis Salgado. Also on the bill are singer/songwriter, Gina Sicilia and Troy Gonyea.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; show at 8 p.m.
$35

Marcia Ball & Sonny Landreth -- Boston MA

Feb 25, 2020 - Feb 25, 2020 Wilbur Theatre, 246 Tremont Street, Boston, MA

The 16-song album "Recorded Live in Lafayette" arrives right after Sonny Landreth's back-to-back Blues Music Awards for Best Guitarist and Best Blues Album for "Bound by the Blues." Texas-born pianist, songwriter and singer Marcia Ball has won fans across the world for her ability to ignite a full-scale roadhouse rhythm and blues party every time she takes the stage.

8 p.m.
$35-$65

Witch City’s Dueling Pianos -- Salem MA

Feb 27, 2020 - Feb 27, 2020 Hawthorne Hotel, 18 Washington Square West, Salem, MA

This entertaining weeknight brings two top-notch high-energy pianists that will surely keep you laughing, signing and clapping along to all your favorite requested songs. This is a fundraiser for Stepping Stones for Stella and Northeast Arc. Light refreshments, desserts and coffee station included in ticket price.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; show at 7:15 p.m.
General admission,$75

Music from the Gilded Age with Austin Burns -- Milton MA

Feb 28, 2020 - Feb 28, 2020 Eustis Estate, 1424 Canton Avenue, Milton, MA

Tenor Austin Burns presents an evening of songs from the Gilded Age. This program draws parallels to today’s economic and political climate. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for wine and refreshments and enjoy access to the museum before the concert. Austin Burns is a tenor, composer, and arranger who is a graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music. Advance tickets recommended.

7:30 p.m.
$30
617-994-6600

Why We Sing: A Choral Celebration of International Women's Day – Boston MA

Mar 7, 2020 - Mar 7, 2020 Church of the Covenant, 67 Newbury Street. Boston, MA

The Women’s Chorus will present a community choral celebration of International Women’s Day. Singers from all over Boston will be invited to join the Women’s Chorus.

Singing and volunteering is 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Concert at 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Free

Chris Botti -- Beverly MA

Mar 7, 2020 - Mar 7, 2020 Cabot, 286 Cabot Street, Beverly, MA

Trumpeter and composer Chris Botti produces hypnotizing performances that meld pop and classical music, amassing legions of fans frm aroudn the world.

Doors open 7 p.m.; music at 8 p.m.
$80 and higher

On A Winter’s Night -- New Bedford MA

Mar 12, 2020 - Mar 12, 2020 Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford, MA

Stars of the singer/songwriter movement -- Christine Lavin, John Gorka, Patty Larkin, Cheryl Wheeler and Cliff Eberhardt -- join together for this concert. These beloved performers are back together by popular demand.

8 p.m.
$25-$45

Dana Fuchs -- Plymouth MA

Mar 14, 2020 - Mar 14, 2020 Spire Center for Performing Arts, 25 1/2 Court Street, Plymouth, MA

Dana Fuchs presents her triumphant fourth album, "Love Lives On."

8-10 p.m.
$28

Berkshire Blues & Brews Fest With Quinn Sullivan – Pittsfield MA

Mar 21, 2020 - Mar 21, 2020 Colonial Theatre, 111 South Street, Pittsfield, MA

Enjoy a special night of top-notch blues music and craft beer at in two spaces, the intimate Garage and the Colonial Theatre. Headlining the night is Quinn Sullivan, along with Misty Blues, Born IV Blues, Waterloo Clyde and Robin O’Herin. For guests ages 21 and older.

6-11 p.m.
$35
413-997-4444

Journeyman - The Layla Tour -- Beverly MA

Mar 27, 2020 - Mar 27, 2020 Cabot, 286 Cabot Street, Beverly, MA

Celebrate 50 years of the historic Layla album with Journeyman, an Eric Clapton tribute band. The Breakers will open with a tribute to Tom Petty.

Doors open 7 p.m.; show at 8 p..m
$30 and higher

2nd Shift Concert by Hank Wonder – Waltham MA

Apr 2, 2020 - Apr 2, 2020 Charles River Museum of Industry & Innovation, 154 Moody Street, Waltham, MA

Imagine, if you can, a musical misture of Hank Williams and Stevie Wonder. Hank Wonder is fronted by honey-voice Darren Buck, backed by Michael Loria on acoustic guitar and the classically-trained Annie Bartlett on fiddle. A beer, wine, and non- alcoholic beverage cash bar will be available

8-9:30 p.m.
781-893-5410

Straight No Chaser: The Open Bar Tour -- Worcester MA

Apr 11, 2020 - Apr 11, 2020 Hanover Theatre, 2 Southbridge Street, Worcester, MA

If the phrase “male a cappella group” conjures up an image of students in blue blazers, ties, and khakis singing traditional college songs ... think again. Straight No Chaser is neither strait-laced nor straight-faced, and it has amassed a fan based from many national TV appearances and CD releases.

3 p.m.
$40-$70
877-571- 7469

Sweet Honey in the Rock -- Provincetown MA

Apr 18, 2020 - Apr 18, 2020 Provincetown Town Hall, Provincetown, MA

Female a cappella vocal quartet. "Sweet Honey in the Rock delivers messages with luminous, virtuosic singing..." – The New York Times.

7:30 p.m.
$30-$70

Night Sledding on the Farm -- Southborough MA

Jan 11, 2020 - Mar 7, 2020 Chestnut Hill Farm, 5 Chestnut Hill Road, Southborough, MA

Grab your sled and snow pants and come to the farm for an evening adrenaline rush with some night sledding. Sledding lanes will be lighted. BYO hot chocolate. This event is free and weather permitting. If there's no snow, there's no sledding! This is a self-guided activity; please follow a leave-no-trace-behind policy. Held every Saturday, January 11-March 7, 2020, if there is snow on the ground.

4 p.m.
Free

Swan Lake In Blue: A Jazz Ballet – Stoneham MA

Feb 15, 2020 - Mar 1, 2020 Greater Boston Stage Company, 395 Main Street, Stoneham, MA

Featuring big band jazz music and a company of tap and jazz dancers, “Swan Lake in Blue: A Jazz Ballet” is based on Tchaikovsky's masterpiece “Swan Lake.” It tells the story of a Broadway producer who falls madly in love with a burlesque dancer, Odette, who is in thrall to a mob boss. Show times and tickets.

Curtain times vary; consult event website
Adults, $50-$60; seniors, $45-55; students, $20; senior matinee, $37
781-279-2200

PAX East 2020 Video Games Show -- Boston MA

Feb 27, 2020 - Mar 1, 2020 Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, 415 Summer Street, Boston, MA

PAX East will host hundreds of the most anticipated unreleased games, available for hands-on demos. The day's events also will include YouTube stars, celebrities of game development, live competitions, entertaining panels, concerts and other fun events.

10 a.m.-6 p.m.
One day, $60; four days, $225

Wounded Warriors Snowfest -- Hancock MA

Mar 7, 2020 - Mar 7, 2020 Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort, 37 Corey Road, Hancock, MA

Service members and their families are welcome to enjoy two days of skiing and snowboarding activities at Jiminy Peak. With the support of STRIDE’s adaptive equipment and teaching methods, the veterans will learn how to overcome the challenges of injury and enjoy independence and freedom through sport.

8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Patriot Place Irish Festival – Foxborough MA

Mar 14, 2020 - Mar 14, 2020 Patriot Place Plaza at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA

The popular St. Patrick’s Day event features live performances by Irish musicians and step dancers, and free Irish-themed activities for children of all ages. Live music by The Fenian Sons, the Joshua Tree and Devri, and Old Colony Highlanders Pipe Band. Performances by a half-dozen Irish dance troupes. Merchants selling Irish goods. Also: sheep petting, hurling club demos, balloon twisting, caricatures, face painting, rugby, and performnaces the the New England Patriots Cheerleaders

11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Kiss Me, I'm Irish: Boston St. Patrick's Day Bar Crawl

Mar 14, 2020 - Mar 18, 2020 locations TBA Boston, MA

Here is how this Boston Bar Crawl works: pre-purchase your bar crawl wristband; check in at venue TBA to get your wristband and map with participating bars and their drink specials. Registration is on Saturday, March 14 is from 2 to 10 p.m. and Tuesday, March 17 from 6 to 11 p.m. Wristband must be picked up during these times. Email barcrawlerzla@gmail.com. For guests age 21 and older.

2 p.m. -2 a.m.
$10 – $30
310-273-8772

Grand Tasting and the Art of the Cocktail -- Salisbury MA

Mar 5, 2020 - Mar 5, 2020 Blue Ocean Music Hall and Event Center, 4 Oceanfront North, Salisbury, MA

Award-winning chefs, exquisite wines, and food from the region’s top restaurants and gourmet food and wine shops come together once again for this fun foodie event.

6-10 p.m.
$125

“Plaza Suite” – Boston MA

Feb 5, 2020 - Feb 22, 2020 Emerson Colonial Theatre, 106 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116

Emmy Award winner Sarah Jessica Parker and Tony Award winner Matthew Broderick performing together in the Neil Simon comedy “Plaza Suite.” Two world-class actors play three hilarious couples in this Broadway classic.

Curtain times vary; consult event website
Consult event website

10×10 New Play Festival with Barrington Stage -- Pittsfield MA

Feb 13, 2020 - Mar 9, 2020 Barrington Stage Company’s St. Germaine Stage, 36 Linden Street Pittsfield, MA

10 Ten-Minute Plays times 10 Playwrights = 100 Minutes of Pure Joy. Plays include:
"Digital Detox" -- Digital Detox at Unplugged is a desperate last ditch effort for one couple;
"My Body" -- In a world in which men are not trusted, women hold all of the cards;
"Are You One Of Those Robots?" -- Tele-Nurse Ruth is worn out by life, until one call pushes her out of her indifference;
"Oy Vey Maria" -- It was supposed to be a silent night;
"Closing Doors" -- When a teacher breaks protocol during an active shooter drill, her assistant principal must decide how they can protect their students and their friendship;
"Jill Takes a Leap" -- A woman on the verge of getting married tries to decide if she’s doing the right thing;
"Minor Deviations" -- After his wife's death, McNally looks for a caregiver for their children but struggles to find the right match;
"Stay, Please" -- After Bruce becomes a widower, his neighbor Elaine comes to console him with lasagna;
"Five Seconds" -- It’s audition day for the annual Five Second Play Festival, and everything is on the line;
"With Improvements by the Actors" -- At the first reading of the new “Danish play” at the Globe, some actors have just a few notes for the Bard.

Thursday, Friday, Saturday at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday at 3 p.m.
Consult event website

The Treasurer" -- Boston MA

Feb 21, 2020 - Mar 22, 2020 Lyric Stage Company, 140 Clarenden Street, Boston, MA

Ida Armstrong is broke, lonely, and fading fast. As she slowly spends all of her children’s money, her son is forced to try to rein in her irrational spending. This sharply intimate piece examines the strained ties between a son, a old parent, and the weight of a guilty conscience.

Curtain times vary; consult event website
Consult event website

“Fiddler on the Roof” – Boston MA

Feb 25, 2020 - Mar 8, 2020 Emerson Colonial Theatre, 106 Boylston Street, Boston, MA

The creators and producers behind “South Pacific,” “The King and I,” and “Oslo” bring a fresh vision to this theatrical masterpiece. Featuring the Broadway classics “Tradition,” “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Sunrise, Sunset,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and “To Life,” “Fiddler on the Roof” will introduce a new generation to this uplifting celebration to life.

Curtain times vary; consult event website
Consult event website

Western Mass.

Cape Cod & The Islands

Central Mass.

Boston

North of Boston

South of Boston

Events Calendar - 2020

Children & Families

Comedy

Dance

Easter

Fitness

Food, Wine, Beer

Historic

Mardi Gras

Music

Outdoor Activities

Performing Arts, Theater, Dance

Shows & Exhibits

Ski Area Events

St. Patrick's Day

Tastings

Theater