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Events Calendar - 2024

Find a multitude of fun events and great things to do, including weekend events, throughout the year, like music; festivals; comedy; outdoor fun; boat cruises; excursions for families and kids; food, wine and beer tastings. Weather is no problem; lots of things to do happen indoors.
Be sure to check out the listings of year-round Fairs & Festivals throughout New England. See also, Great Things to Do.

Please remember to check about health & safety guidelines with each venue before purchasing tickets or attending an event.

Find the dates you plan to travel or simply search the full events list below.

All Ages Arts & Crafts Shows Bike Tours Fairs & Festivals Fall & Foliage Food, Wine, Beer Halloween Historic Literature Music Science & Nature
We welcome the events that are open to the public. Click here to Submit your Event for FREE
Heirloom Apple Day at Scott Farm Orchard in Dummerston, VT is October 13, 2024!
See You in Plymouth this Summer! Visit our Destination Plymouth page!
Sunset Cruise & Harbor Views! - See Plymouth, MA!

All Ages

Inn at Hastings Park's Dia de los Muertos Tea - Lexington, MA

Oct 26, 2024 - Oct 27, 2024 Lexington, MA

October 26 & October 27! 
Back by popular demand: Dia de los Muertos Tea returns! The Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) is a celebratory day that pays respects and remembers departed friends and family, and is the festival that Halloween was intended to be. An afternoon tea of fun including costumes (strongly encouraged), trick-or-treating, crafts, cookie decorating, delicious sweet and savory bites like Dulce de Leche cookies and Jamon y Queso sandwiches, all while sipping J’enwey Teas as this year’s ofrenda to honor lost loved ones is unveiled.  For adults, it includes one glass of Schramsberg Mirabelle Rosé.  Seatings at 10 am, 12 pm & 2 pm on October 26 & 27, 2024. Adults $85 (plus tax & gratuity). For children (4-12 years), includes trick-or-treating, crafts, cookie decorating, bites and tea or hot chocolate - $60 (plus tax & gratuity). Children 3 and under eat for free. October 26, 2024 tea - bookable via this link & October 27, 202 tea - bookable via this link.
Seatings at 10 am, 12 pm & 2 pm

Arts & Crafts Shows

New England Holiday Craft Spectacular 2024 - Hanover, MA

Nov 2, 2024 - Nov 3, 2024 Starland Sportsplex - 637 Washington Street Hanover, MA 02339

The acclaimed "Best New Hampshire Holiday Fair" (Yankee Magazine) returns to the South Shore! Now happening a month earlier, it's the perfect opportunity to get a jump on your holiday shopping! Over 150 of the regions finest craftspeople will display and sell their American made works. A "food sampling" extravaganza will be presented with such gourmet Specialty Food delights, such as Seasonal Cookies, Hot Sauce, Infused Oils, Honey, Balsamic Vinegars, Jams, Cannoli, Seasonings, Organic Maple, Chocolate Toffee, Tea Jelly, Hot Smoked Cheese, Finishing Sauces, Freeze Dried Candy and more. The fair is held rain or shine with free parking. This year we have even more parking available for our shoppers!
Saturday 10am to 5pm / Sunday 10am to 4pm
$8 / Adult (Good for both days)

29th Annual Original Castleberry Faire

Nov 29, 2024 - Dec 1, 2024 Shriner's Auditorium - 99 Fordham Road Wilmington, MA 01887

A New England Tradition continues, and the crafters are back in a big way for the 29th Annual Castleberry Faire, Arts & Craft Festival! This three day shopping bonanza includes over 250 of the nation's finest craftspeople, displaying and selling their American made works and specialty foods. The Castleberry Faire is held indoor, rain or shine with plenty of free parking and shuttle buses.
Friday 9am to 5pm / Saturday 10am to 5pm / Sunday 10am to 4pm
Adult Admission $10.00, good for all 3 days

Vernon Street Open Studios - Somerville, MA

Dec 7, 2024 - Dec 8, 2024 6 & 20 Vernon Street Somerville, MA 02145

On December 7 & 8, Vernon Street Studios will host their Fall/Winter Open Studios. As one of the oldest open studios events in the Greater Boston area, Vernon Street Studios has been recognized as a community well known throughout the area for the quality of work produced by artists with established reputations as well as exciting newcomers. 

The Open Studios event allows attendees to learn about the creative process, interact with artists in
the spaces where they create, purchase original artwork, and discover new talent. This year marks our 50th Anniversary and to mark this momentous occasion we will be having a special exhibit in December at the Nave Gallery in Somerville as well as other smaller events throughout the Fall.

12-6pm

Bike Tours

Autumn Escape Bike Trek - Sandwich, MA

Sep 27, 2024 - Sep 29, 2024 Camp Burgess - 75 Stowe Road Sandwich, MA

The Autumn Escape Bike Trek is an annual one, two or three-day ride along Cape Cod, MA taking place September 27-29, 2024. This year marks our 40th anniversary and we can't wait to celebrate with you! Enjoy gorgeous views as you cycle through the Cape all while supporting the American Lung Association's mission of saving lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through research, education and advocacy. Activities follow the ride each day including Trek Tent City, our famous festival-style celebration, a lobster dinner, food truck lunch, and more! All meals and accommodations for the weekend are included in your fundraising minimum.
8am
$55-95 fee, $250-750 fundraising minimum
401-533-5172

Fairs & Festivals

Needham Multicultural Festival 2024

Oct 20, 2024 - Oct 20, 2024 609 Webster Street Needham, MA 02492

The Needham Human Rights Committee and Needham Diversity Initiative are Co-hosting the 2nd Annual Needham Multicultural Festival on Sunday, October 20th, 2024, at Needham High School from 1-5 pm. Co-sponsorships include the Needham Resilience Network, Needham Council for Arts & Culture, and Needham Rotary Club. More than 20 countries will be represented with information tables, food, and live performances. This event is free, and all are welcome.
1:00p
Free

Fall & Foliage

Pepperell Fall Festival 2024

Sep 21, 2024 - Sep 21, 2024 4 Hollis Street Pepperell, MA 01463

Pepperell Fall Fest is a fun day of community activities, entertainment, food and games, plus over 100 booths to explore! Activities includes inflatable slide and obstacle course, pie eating contest, kids games, hay rides, K9 demonstrations, and a few other surprises! Pepperell is known for its Small Town Big Bang celebration, and will be celebrating its 250th Anniversary in 2025, so don't miss this event to kick off the fall season!
10am-3pm
Free

Fall Fest 2024 - Sturbridge, MA

Sep 21, 2024 - Sep 22, 2024 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road Sturbridge, MA 01566

Join us for a delightful journey back in time at Fall Fest! Spend the day with your family and friends in the vibrant surroundings of New England’s largest outdoor living history museum. Marvel at the vital role animals played in the daily life of early 19th century New Englanders, from the hardworking oxen to the endearing sheep, come learn about the region’s rich agricultural history. Wander through our scenic gardens, step inside the historical buildings, and chat with our friendly costumed historians. Come enjoy a day of family fun and educational adventure. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of animals, or simply looking for a fun and informative fall outing, Fall Fest offers something for everyone. Stay tuned, more details coming soon.
9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Standard Admission
800-733-1830

South Coast Harvest Festival 2024

Sep 27, 2024 - Sep 29, 2024 200 Pine Hill Road Westport, MA 02790

Join us for fall family fun at the South Coast Harvest Festival! Featuring professional garden displays, local food vendors, an artisan marketplace, and live shows and entertainment all weekend long.
9/27-9/28 10am-8pm, 9/29 10am-6pm
$10 adults, $5 children, free under 5

Food, Wine, Beer

5th Annual Salem Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival

Sep 21, 2024 - Sep 22, 2024 Salem Common, N. Washington Square Salem, MA 01970

Prepare to be blown away as Food Truck Festivals of America returns with the exhilarating 5th Annual Salem Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival to the vibrant Salem Common. Over 40 of the most sought-after local and New England food trucks are gearing up to dish out their mouthwatering specialties, while an incredible selection of local and national craft beers will be on tap to quench your thirst. Mark your calendars for Saturday & Sunday, September 21st & 22nd, from 11 AM to 6 PM, for an action-packed weekend filled with craft beer, tantalizing food, lawn games, live music, and endless fun for the entire family. Entry is FREE!
11:00AM-6:00PM
FREE
781-956-3832

Inn at Hastings Park's Farm to Vine: Hispanic Heritage Dinner Featuring Lapostolle Winery and Lexington Community Farm

Sep 26, 2024 - Sep 26, 2024 Lexington, MA

The Inn at Hastings Park Executive Chef Alissa Tsukakoshi (whose previous experience includes stints at Lumière, L’Espalier and Nantucket's American Seasons) and her team inspired by all the beautiful flavors of Latin America and in homage to Hispanic Heritage Month present a five-course Farm to Vine dinner.  Showcasing Relais & Chateaux's commitment to sustainability, Chef Alissa is partnering with Lexington Community Farm and pairing each course with the elegant portfolio of Chilean Lapostolle wines.  A portion of the proceeds of this event will be donated to Lexington Community Farm Coalition, a grassroots organization founded by neighbors to sustain the 7.9-acre non-profit local area Busa Farm. Begins at 6 pm. This dinner is for adults only, 21+. $180/person, plus tax & gratuity. Bookable via this link.
Begins at 6pm
$180/person, plus tax & gratuity

7th Annual New Bedford Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival

Oct 5, 2024 - Oct 5, 2024 Fort Taber, 1000 S Rodney French Blvd. New Bedford, MA 02744

Join us as Food Truck Festivals of America returns with the excitement of the 7th Annual New Bedford Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival to the picturesque Fort Taber. Save the date for Saturday, October 5th, from Noon to 5 PM (VIP hour from 11 AM to Noon), for a day packed with craft beer, mouthwatering food, lawn games, music, and family-friendly fun. Don't miss out on the chance to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Be sure to bring your friends and family, your favorite lawn chairs and cozy blankets and enjoy soaking in the sun amidst all the festivities!
12:00PM-5:00PM
$5 in advance, $10 day of/at gate
781-956-3832

Inn at Hastings Park's Farm to Vine: Fall Harvest Dinner Featuring Maison M. Chapoutier wines and Wilson Farm

Oct 9, 2024 - Oct 9, 2024 Lexington, MA

An elegant fall harvest dinner where France and New England meet at the Inn at Hastings Park. This immersive and indulgent gastronomic journey will feature highest quality farm-fresh autumn produce from Lexington’s beloved local area Wilson Farm (since 1884) paired with wines from Masion M. Chaptouier, one of the elite and biggest names in the Rhone Valley of France, and the most awarded winery in the world. Executive Chef Alissa Tsukakoshi prepares an impeccable 5-course New England harvest dinner paired with the elegant notes and bouquets of Masion M. Chapoutier’s wines. This dinner is for adults only, 21+. $288/per person, plus tax & gratuity. Bookable via this link. 
Begins at 6pm
$288/per person, plus tax & gratuity

Inn at Hastings Park's Supper Club: Roast Revolution -- **Part of 250th Commemorative Year Initiatives

Oct 16, 2024 - Oct 16, 2024 Lexington, MA

A revolutionary spin on roasts…the classic versions have endless possibilities for variation.  Sunday roast will never be dull again! During this commemorative year leading up to the 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Lexington taking place on April 19, 2025, this American Revolution-themed foodie experience is an interactive feast of the senses, guiding guests through the execution of a sumptuous contemporary roast dinner (with ideas for meat & fish) and inspired veggies plus a rib-sticking dessert within a themed dinner party setting. Begins at 6 pm with welcome bubbles while crafting hors d’oeuvres. Then, guests create a three-course sit-down roast dinner with wine pairings. Participants receive a signature apron and American Revolution themed event favor. This supper club is for adults only, 21+. Bookable via this link. Guests can create an evening with an overnight stay at The Inn at Hastings Park and receive a 15% discount on nightly room rates.

Begins at 6pm
$250 per ticket + tax

Inn at Hastings Park's Revolutionary Rum Craft Cocktail Class -- **Part of 250th Commemorative Year Initiatives

Nov 21, 2024 - Nov 21, 2024 Lexington, MA

A nod to the upcoming 250th Anniversary of the Battle of Lexington, the start of the American Revolution in April 2025, rum is the focus of this craft cocktail class. During the colonial era, Boston was booming in the business of molasses distillation and rum became plentiful.  It was the preferred alcoholic drink of American colonists and, on average, colonists consumed 3.7 gallons annually per head by the time of the American Revolution! Today, rum is again at the top in popularity. The Inn at Hastings Park's mixology instructor, Dipendra Karki, leads this hour-and-a-half guided craft cocktail class. Guests enjoy delicious bar snacks while learning the basics of building the perfect rum cocktails along with take away techniques to practice the craft at home. What's included: introduction to various bar tools, learning measurements and pour counts, building rum cocktails, creating creative garnishes, and introduction to infusions.  Must be 21+ to participate. 6 pm - 7:30 pm - $125/person (includes tax and gratuity). Bookable via this link.
6 pm - 7:30 pm
$125/person (includes tax and gratuity)

Inn at Hastings Park's Thanksgiving Day at Town Meeting Bistro - A New England Thanksgiving

Nov 28, 2024 - Nov 28, 2024 Lexington, MA

The air is crisp, the scent of turkey and pie in the air and the fireplaces at The Inn at Hastings Park are aglow...there is nothing more New England than a traditional Thanksgiving celebration with family and friends! Located in the quintessential New England town of Lexington, Mass, Town Meeting Bistro, cozy with a wood burning fireplace, will be offering a festive and elegantly traditional Thanksgiving buffet abundant with all the trimmings of turkey & gravy, pies, pumpkins, apples, salads, potatoes, Parker House rolls...and more! Seatings available from 12 pm to 6 pm. Adults $130 (plus tax & gratuity); Children (4-12 years) $65 (plus tax & gratuity). Children 3 and under eat for free. Bookable via this link.
Seatings available from 12 pm to 6 pm
Adults $130 (plus tax & gratuity); Children 4-12 years $65 (plus tax & gratuity). Children 3 and under free

Halloween

Phantoms By Firelight at Old Sturbridge Village

Oct 4, 2024 - Oct 27, 2024 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road Sturbridge, MA 01566

A Halloween experience of epic and eerie proportions! Phantoms by Firelight returns to Old Sturbridge Village for 12 nights this Fall…and it’s bigger than ever with new performances and more fire! Step into the firelit shadows of history and uncover its eerie tales. Learn about the history of Halloween traditions, play games, find treats, and listen to ghost stories by the bonfire. Plus, be entertained by the spectacle of mesmerizing performances including fire breathing and flame spinning, as well as acrobats flying high over the Village with their vampire-like ways. From specters to secrets, explore history’s haunted mysteries. Bigger and better than past years! Featuring even more Halloween fun and adventure for all ages.
Phantoms by Firelight takes place at night. Stay tuned for specific details!
See website for more details
800-733-1830

Sweet Halloween at Cider Hill Farm

Oct 19, 2024 - Oct 27, 2024 45 Fern Avenue Amesbury, MA 01913

Break out those adorable costumes and get ready for a fun, festive day on the farm! Sweet Halloween is a fan-favorite event held every October. This family-friendly, not-so-spooky, trick-or-treating experience is brimming with sweet treats and boo-tiful fall foliage! Enjoy hayrides, food trucks, costume contests, games, cider n' donuts and free live music.
October 19-20 & October 26-27 from 10 am - 4 pm
Free Admission (does not include trick-or-treat)
978-388-5525

Historic

18th Century Market Day - Lexington, MA

Sep 28, 2024 - Sep 28, 2024 1 Bedford Street Lexington, MA 02420

What was life actually like in Lexington at the time of the American Revolution - who lived here, what did they do, and did anyone actually have time for fun? Stop by the Visitors Center and meet a variety of reenactors showcasing different trades and perspectives of the time, as well as some favorite historic toys and games for all ages! This event coincides with Lexington PorchFest, so be sure not to miss performances by our own Lexington Historical Society Singers and Dancers, performing 18th century music and dance! FREE
11:00AM
Free
781-862-5598

Indigenous Peoples Day 4th Annual Ceremonial Celebration - Newton, MA

Oct 14, 2024 - Oct 14, 2024 Albemarle Field - 250 Albemarle Road Newton, MA 02460

Join us for the Indigenous Peoples Day 4th Annual Ceremonial Celebration: the largest in New England! Our Celebration is a free, outdoor, family-friendly, Indigenous-led, & volunteer-run event that celebrates & amplifies the voices of Indigenous peoples in the Northeast & beyond. We’ll have live music, traditional dancing, delicious food, art demonstrations, Indigenous-owned businesses, activities for youth, & so much more. All are welcome! There will be numerous accessibility measures in place, including ASL interpreters, a sensory-friendly/quiet zone, & an accessible viewing area.
11:00 AM-5:00 PM
FREE
617-702-2929

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) - North Adams, MA

Nov 1, 2024 - Nov 1, 2024 MASS MoCA North Adams, MA

Join us for our annual celebration of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), the Mexican holiday of remembrance for those who have passed away. Bring your friends and family members to contribute to an altar with your own ofrenda including photos or tokens of past loved ones and participate in one of our art making activities. Enjoy Mexican specialty foods while you listen to the music of student performers throughout the night right in the MASS MoCA lobby. At 5:15pm MASS MoCA’s Senior Manager of School Programs Rebecca Cuscaden Marvin will present a special-edition Family Storytime. Then, join us in the R&D Store at 6pm with writer and curator Elizabeth Ferrer for an in-depth look at a pioneering Chicano photographer, Louis Carlos Bernal, who preserves the legacy of his Southwestern community. MASS MoCA presents Día de Los Muertos in collaboration with Latinas413 and other community organizations in Berkshire County.
5:00PM
Free

Literature

Boston Book Festival 2024

Oct 25, 2024 - Oct 26, 2024 180 Berkeley Street Boston, MA 02116

The Boston Book Festival (BBF) is back for its 16th year on October 25-26! The BBF celebrates literature with a free annual festival and year-round events. Enjoy a full day of engaging content with over 60 presentations and 200 authors in Copley Square including the Boston Public Library, Old South Church, and Trinity Church. Be part of this vibrant literary celebration in Boston’s Back Bay, where words come alive!
7:30pm
FREE
254-563-8648

Music

Moody Street String Band

Sep 25, 2024 - Sep 25, 2024 Gore Place Waltham, MA

On Wednesday, September 25 at 7:30 p.m., Gore Place, the historic site in Waltham and Watertown, Massachusetts, will offer a concert by the Moody Street String Band. The band plays fiddle, banjo, guitars, bass, mandolin, and accordion. They will offer a wonderful program of Irish, Scottish, English, American, and New England traditional music. Depending on the weather, the concerts will take place either under the Century Tent or in the beautifully restored 1793 Carriage House. Tickets are $21. To order advance tickets, visit goreplace.org. Parking is free.
7:30pm
$21

2024 Boston Pops Holiday Tour at Hanover Theatre

Dec 6, 2024 - Dec 6, 2024 2 Southbridge Street Worcester, MA 01608

Join the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra and conductor Keith Lockhart for their sparkling and beloved Holiday Pops concert. Capturing the magic of the Christmas season and the winter charms of New England, the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra will perform holiday classics and new arrangements of seasonal favorites.
8:00PM
$79, $95, $119 and $149 depending on seat location
877-571-7469

Science & Nature

Lowell Kinetic Sculture Race 2024

Sep 21, 2024 - Sep 21, 2024 Downtown Areas Lowell, MA 01854

Cheer on your favorite man-made racing creation at the Lowell Kinetic Sculpture Race! Watch as engineering and artistic wizards, students and hobbyists take to the streets, the river, and the mud course in custom-built contraptions. Come see who takes home the trophies! Costumes welcome! Live music, side activities and food trucks. This is a great fun AND educational event for kids and all are welcome to come spectate.
8:30AM - 5PM