FAIRS AND FESTIVALS > MASSACHUSETTS

JUNE 5, 6, AND 7 ù SCOOPER BOWL
City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA (map)
800.525.4669 or 617.632.5008
sarah_neukom@dfci.harvard.edu
http://www.jimmyfund.org

The nation's largest all-you-can-eat ice cream festival serves up more than 40 flavors from 10 of the leading ice-cream companies in America. This summer's line-up includes ice cream from Baskin-Robbins, Ben & Jerry's, Breyers, Brigham's, Cold Stone Creamery, Edy's, Elan Frozen Yogurt, Garelick Farms/Gifford's, HSagen-Dazs, and H.P. Hood. All proceeds go to the Jimmy Fund. Open Tues and Thurs from 11:30 am to 6 pm, and on Wed until 8 pm. Admission $6.30, $2.70 for children three to 10, free for children under three. Three-day passes available only in advance for $15. Group tickets (10-percent discount) also available online.

JUNE 9 ù ANNUAL HARBOR FESTIVAL
Oak Bluffs Harbor, Martha's Vineyard, MA (map)
508.693.2892
obainfo@yahoo.com
http://www.oakbluffsmv.com

16th annual Oak Bluffs Harbor Festival, with live music, food, art, and sidewalk chalk-art contest. Festival runs from noon to 5 pm. Rain date is June 10. Admission is free.

JUNE 9 ù BOSTON GAY PRIDE PARADE AND FESTIVAL
City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA (map)
617.262.9405
festival@bostonpride.org
http://www.bostonpride.org

After the parade snakes its way through the city, a day of celebration kicks off at the festival's new venue -- City Hall Plaza -- at noon. This year's festival includes 12 live performers, more than 100 merchants, and the new HRC Family Area, which features clowns, carnival games, and face painting from 1 to 5 pm. The festival takes place rain or shine. Check the Web site for the full roster of Pride Week participants and events.

JUNE 10 ù BUNKER HILL PARADE
Bunker Hill Monument, Monument Sq, Charlestown, MA (map)
617.242.2724
http://www.cityofboston.gov/calendar

The Bunker Hill Parade, which is the key event of the annual Bunker Hill Day weekend celebration, starts from the corner of Vine and Bunker Hill Streets at 12:30 pm and runs until 4 pm.

JUNE 10 ù HONG KONG DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL
along the Charles River, Memorial Drive, Cambridge, MA (map)
617.426.6500, ext 778
dragonboat@bostonchildrensmuseum.org
http://www.bostondragonboat.org

The festival commemorates the life and death of the ancient poet Qu Yuan, who lived from 340 to 278 BC. Festival includes dragon-boat races, food, music, and arts and crafts, and takes place along the Charles near Harvard Square from 9 am to 5 pm. Free.

JUNE 10 ù ST. ANTHONY'S PROCESSION
Hanover & Prince St, North End, Boston, MA (map)
617.523.2110
The summer saints season begins with this march in praise of St.. Anthony of Padua (not the one who lived in the desert). St.. A of P is the patron of, among many things, amputees, American Indians, Brazil, lost articles, lower animals, starvation, and Beaumont, Texas. A good man to have on your side. Procession starts at 1 pm. Free.

JUNE 16 ù CAMBRIDGE RIVER FESTIVAL
Memorial Dr from JFK St to Western Ave, Cambridge, MA (map)
617.349.4381
jbeal@cambridgema.gov
http://www.cambridgema.gov/~CAC/community_river.html

Featuring live music, 100 specialty-food vendors and craftspeople, a childrenÆs area, dance, and a performance-poetry stage. Open from noon to 6 pm. Free. Rain or shine.

JUNE 16 AND 17 ù SOMMERFEST
Boylston Schul-Verein, 8 County St (Rte 109), Walpole, MA (map)
508.660.2018
info@germanclub.org
http://www.germanclub.org

The summer version of Oktoberfest features hearty food, potent beer, delectable desserts, and music by the Polka Quad. Experience authentic German food, drink, and Gemeutlichkeit. Open on Sat from noon to 11 pm, and on Sun until 6 pm. Admission $7, free for children under 12.

JUNE 21 THROUGH 24 ù PROVINCETOWN PORTUGUESE FESTIVAL
Provincetown Chamber of Commerce (map)
508.487.0500
info@provincetownportuguesefestival.com
http://www.provincetownportuguesefestival.com

A celebration of Provincetown and its Portuguese heritage, open to all. Soup tasting, food court, concerts, block dance, parade, and traditional Portuguese dancers. Events begin daily at 9 am and run well into the early-morning hours. Free.

JUNE 22 AND 23 ù SUMMER REVELS
300 Congress St, near South Station, Boston, MA (map)
617.972.8300
info@revels.org
http://www.revels.org

The 5th annual Summer Revels festival at Children's Wharf Park will celebrate the the arrival of summer with a stage performance, dancers, singers, jugglers, and all things fun (okay, most). Events on Fri start at 7 pm, Sat festivities begin at 4 pm. The nights end with communal singing and a grand processional. Free.

JUNE 23 AND 24 ù 5TH ANNUAL GREEK FESTIVAL
Assumption of the Virgin Mary, 1160 Mommoth Rd, Dracut, MA (map)
978.957.6051
During the afternoon, there are Greek food, crafts, raffles, and vendors. Open on Sat from 11 am to 11 pm, and on Sun from 11 am to 10 pm. Free.

JUNE 23 AND 24 ù INTERNATIONAL FAIR
Overlook Farm, 216 Wachusett St, Rutland, MA (map)
508.886.2221
overlook.farm@heifer.org
http://www.heifer.org/overlook

Annual educational fair at Heifer International's 270-acre Overlook Farm. Organic food, horse-drawn hayrides, live entertainment, Dale Perkins' Horse Show, demonstrations, and farm animals. Open on Sat from 11 am to 5 pm, and on Sun from noon to 5 pm. Admission $5 per car.

JUNE 24 ù ST. JUDE PROCESSION
Hanover & Prince St, North End, Boston, MA (map)
617.723.9667
Celebrating the patron saint of hospitals and lost causes. Procession begins at 2 pm. Free.

JUNE 27 ù GLOUCESTER NEW FISH FESTIVAL
Gloucester House Restaurant, Seven Seas Wharf, Rogers St (Rte 127), Gloucester, MA (map)
978.283.1601
info@capeannchamber.com
http://www.cape-ann.com/events.html

Area restaurants compete as they show off new ways to cook seafood and encourage an awareness of the diversity of fish. (It's not just cod and scrod any more.) Event begins at 5:30 pm. Advance reservations required. Admission includes a variety of entrees, hors d'oeuvres, salad, and dessert. A cash bar will be available. Call for prices.

JUNE 27 THROUGH JULY 1 ù ST. PETER'S FIESTA
St. PeterÆs Sq, Gloucester, MA (map)
978.283.1601
info@stpetersfiesta.org
http://www.stpetersfiesta.org

Honor the patron saint of fishermen, St. Peter, with the "walking of the greasy pole," music, food, childrenÆs games, dancing, and sporting events culminating with the blessing of the fishing fleet on Sun at 3 pm. Free.

JUNE 28 THROUGH JULY 4 ù BOSTON HARBORFEST AND CHOWDERFEST
City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA (map)
617.227.1528
festival@bostonharborfest.com
http://www.bostonharborfest.com

Now in its 26th year of celebrating Boston's colonial and maritime heritage, Harborfest crams more than 200 events over a week-long Fourth of July celebration, most of which takes place downtown or along the waterfront. Events include walking tours, concerts and cruises, tours of the Boston Harbor Islands, visits from Naval ships, museum exhibits, and historical re-enactments. The annual Chowderfest is held on July 1 from 11 am to 6 pm at City Hall Plaza. Admission to Chowderfest is $10, $7 for children; many events are free.

JUNE 28 THROUGH JULY 8 ù BROCKTON FAIR
Brockton Fairgrounds, Rte 123 (Belmont St), Brockton, MA (map)
508.586.8000
keri@brocktonfair.com
http://www.brocktonfair.com

Attractions include a demolition derby, monster-truck rides, helicopter rides, a petting zoo, pig racing (yes!), magic shows, and comedy entertainers. Admission $5 for adults, $1 for children.

JULY 1 ù CHOWDERFEST
City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA (map)
617.227.1528
festival@bostonharborfest.com
http://www.bostonharborfest.com

Restaurants compete for the distinction of ôBostonÆs Best Clam Chowder.ö Soup's on from 11 am to 6 pm, rain or shine. Admission $10, $7 for children.

JULY 2 ù CHILDREN'S DAY
City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA (map)
617.227.1528
festival@bostonharborfest.com
http://www.bostonharborfest.com

Boston Harborfest hosts its 13th annual Children's Day with juggling, music, balloon fun (whatever that may be), face painting, and more. Open Mon from 10 am to 3 pm. Free.

JULY 3 ù GLOUCESTER PARADE AND HARBOR FIREWORKS
Downtown Gloucester, MA (map)
978.283.1601
info@capeannchamber.com
http://www.capeannchamber.com

Parade begins at 6 pm, followed by fireworks over Gloucester Harbor at 10 pm.

JULY 4 ù CAPE VERDEAN FESTIVAL
City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA (map)
617.635.3911
Celebrate Cape Verde's 32nd anniversary of independence from Portugal. Festivities include Cape Verdean music, cultural displays, games, food, a raffle, and crafts. Starts at 2 pm. Free.

JULY 4 ù CASTLE HILL INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
Grand Allee, Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich, MA (map)
978.921.1944 ext 4028
castlehill@ttor.org
http://www.craneestate.org

Fireworks, concerts, and fun for everyone. Children's activities include Kid's Fest, Boston Children's Theatre, and Benjamin the Juggler. The Riverboat Stompers and the Merrimack Valley Philharmonic Orchestra will perform before the annual fireworks spectacular. Festivities run from 4 to 10 pm. Admission $25, $15 for children. For members $15, $10 for children. Tickets available online or by phone.

JULY 4 ù MANCHESTER BY THE SEA INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE
Downtown Manchester, MA (map)
978.283.1601
info@capeannchamber.com
http://www.capeannchamber.com

Parade begins at 9 am with marching bands and floats. Fireworks display the night before at dusk.

JULY 4 ù OSV INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge, MA (map)
508.347.3362
http://www.osv.org

Music, marching, militia mustering, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence. The events run from 9:30 am to 5 pm. No special admission. General admission to Old Sturbridge Village is $20, $18 for seniors, $6 for children three to 17. All admission is good for two days within a 10-day-period.

JULY 4 ù PROVINCETOWN PARADE AND FIREWORKS
Provincetown Chamber of Commerce (map)
508.487.7000 ext 536
http://www.provincetown.com

Parade starts at 11 am. Fireworks begin at dusk on the bay side of Provincetown.

JULY 4 ù ROCKPORT FOURTH OF JULY PARADE
Downtown Rockport, MA (map)
978.283.1601
info@capeannchamber.com
http://www.capeannchamber.com

Parade begins at 6 pm. The Rockport Legion Band Concert on Back Beach begins at 8:30 pm, and the bonfire on Back Beach begins at 9 pm. Free.

JULY 6, 7, AND 8 ù NEW BEDFORD SUMMERFEST
New Bedford Whaling Historical Park, New Bedford, MA (map)
508.999.5231
summerfest@newbedfordchamber.com
http://www.newbedfordsummerfest.com

ArtisansÆ marketplace, folk and ethnic music, carnival, food, and fireworks. New this year is a kick-off concert on Fri night. On Sat and Sun events run from 11 am to 8 pm. Admission is $10 per day or $15 for the entire weekend, free for children 14 and under. Kick-off concert tickets are $10. All tickets are available online or by phone.

JULY 7 ù 17TH ANNUAL GREAT BRUSH OFF
Cotuit Village Green, Cotuit, MA (map)
508.428.7581
cmaa@cahoonmuseum.org
http://www.cahoonmuseum.org

Eighty artists spread around Cotuit to paint. Related festivities on Cotuit's village green include music, food, and a silent auction of the artists' works that begins at 2 pm. Event runs from 10 am to 4 pm. Free.

JULY 8 ù MADONNA DEL GRAZIE FESTIVAL
North Square, North End, Boston, MA (map)
781.391.0515
Procession begins at 2 pm. Free.

JULY 10 THROUGH AUG 14 ù SUMMER IN THE CITY
Cambridge Arts Council, 344 Broadway, Cambridge, MA (map)
617.349.4380
http://www.ci.cambridge.ma.us/%7ECAC/community_summer.html

The 16th annual summer concert series features performance, dance, and puppetry for kids ages four to 11 at parks throughout Cambridge. All shows are free and handicapped-accessible. Check the Web site for shows and locations. Call for rain locations.

JULY 13 ù BASTILLE DAY FESTIVAL
Marlborough St, between Berkeley and Clarendon Sts, Boston, MA (map)
617.876.4275
info@frenchlib.org
http://www.frenchlib.org

Boston's 32nd Bastille Day celebration features performances by Francophone stars Ricardo Lemvo and Makina Loca, Ousmane Toure, and Emeline Michel. Vendors will be serving up French food and, of course, wine. Gates open at 6 pm for the street dance, and live music begins at 7 pm. Festivities wind down at 11 pm. Tickets are $30 in advance, $35 at the door. Advance tickets are strongly recommended, as this event sells out fast. Call or visit worldmusic.org for tickets.

JULY 15 ù ST. ROCCO FESTIVAL
Prince St, North End, Boston, MA (map)
781.286.2669
Celebrate the Frenchman who made a pilgrimage to Rome and healed some sick folks along the way. And he wasn't a doctor. Procession begins at 1 pm on North Margin St.. Free.

JULY 20 AND 21 ù GREEN RIVER FESTIVAL
Greenfield Community College, I-91 exit 26, Greenfield, MA (map)
413.773.5463
fccc@crocker.com
http://www.greenriverfestival.com

Now in its 21st year, the festival offers music on two stages, food, crafts, dancing, a wide array of kids activities, and hot-air-balloon launches (weather permitting). Preview show on Thurs from 6 to 8 pm. Gates open Fri at 5 pm for an evening of Louisiana music, and on Sat at 1 pm for a full day of international artists. Admission $25 on Fri, $45 on Sat.. Advanced discount weekend tickets $39.50. Children 12 and under free.

JULY 20 AND 21 ù SOMERVILLE ARTBEAT FESTIVAL
Davis Square, Somerville, MA (map)
617.625.6600 ext 2985
http://www.somervilleartscouncil.org

The theme for this year's festival is "Artbeast." Events include music, dance, crafts, food, art installations, street performers, and participatory-arts areas. The festival takes place on Fri from 6 to 11 pm, and on Sat from noon to 6 pm. $3 suggested donation.

JULY 20, 21, and 22 ù ITALIA UNITA FESTIVAL
Central Square, East Boston, MA (map)
617.561.3201
italiaunita@verizon.net
http://www.italiaunita.org

The 13th annual three-day festival celebrates Italian culture as East Boston's Central Square transforms itself into an Italian-style piazza. The festival features cultural attractions, Italian-food vendors, bocce courts, kiddie rides, and wine stomping. Don't miss the World Italian Sausage Eating Championship on Sat.. Check the Web site for a full schedule of events. Festivities begin on Fri at 7 pm, and Sat and Sun at 6 pm.

JULY 20 THROUGH 28 ù BARNSTABLE COUNTY FAIR
Barnstable County Fairgrounds, off Rte 151, East Falmouth, MA (map)
508.563.3200
info@barnstablecountyfair.org
http://www.barnstablecountyfair.org

Rides, games, animals, vegetables, food, and live entertainment. Fairgrounds open Mon through Thurs from 4 to 11:30 pm, and on Fri, Sat, and Sun from 11 am to 11:30 pm. Gates close at 10 pm. Admission $10, $8 for seniors, free for children 12 and under. Free parking available.

JULY 21 ù GLASGOW LANDS SCOTTISH FESTIVAL
Look Park, 300 N Main St, Florence (Northampton) MA (map)
413.862.8095 or 413.862.4539
info@glasgowlands.org
http://www.glasgowlands.org

Features dance competitions, wool spinning and weaving, sheepdog demos, athletic games, pipe bands, Scottish foods, and a bagpipe competition. Performers include Enter the Haggis, Charlie Zahm, Zoe Darrow and the Fiddleheads, and the Rising. The festival runs from 9 am to 9 pm, rain or shine. Tickets $15, $5 for children six through 12, free for children under six.

JULY 21 ù NEWBURYPORT ART WALK
Newburyport, MA (map)
978.462.6680
info@newburyportchamber.org
http://www.newburyportchamber.org/artwalk.shtml

Take a stroll on a self-guided art tour through 14 galleries: Bridge Gallery, Chameleon, Child at Heart Art Gallery, the Churchill Gallery, Connor Summers Gallery, Ferry Wharf Gallery & Artist's Studio, Firehouse Center for the Arts, Lepore Fine Arts, Newburyport Art Association, Off the Wall, Somerby's Landing Sculpture Park, Spirit of Newburyport Gallery & Gifts, Valerie's Gallery, and the Walsingham Gallery. Open from 3 to 7 pm.

JULY 21 THROUGH 23 ù PUERTO RICAN FESTIVAL
Playstead Field, Franklin Park, Boston, MA (map)
866.481.0695
Food and music from the Caribbean island, plus a parade at noon on Sun along Malcolm X Blvd. Open from noon to 11 pm each day, rain or shine. Free.

JULY 22 ù ST. DOMENIC'S PROCESSION
North Square, North End, Boston, MA (map)
781.289.6323
Procession starts at 2 pm. Free.

JULY 27, 28, AND 29 ù LOWELL FOLK FESTIVAL
Downtown Lowell, MA (map)
978.970.5000
duey_kol@nps.gov
http://www.lowellfolkfestival.org

The largest free folk festival in the nation. Three days of traditional music and dance on six outdoor stages. From bluegrass to Cajun, from Polish polka to Cape Verdean funana, this festival covers the world. There are also street parades, ethnic foods, and craft demonstrations. The music flows on Fri from 7 to 10 pm, on Sat from noon to 10 pm, and on Sun from noon to 6 pm. Free, donations accepted. See listing under "Pop Music" for information on performers.

JULY 27, 28, AND 29 ù ST. JOSEPH'S FESTIVAL
Hanover & Battery St., Boston, MA (map)
617.391.7888
Three-day festival in the North End, with live entertainment every night and a procession Sun at 1 pm. The festival runs on Fri from 5 to 11 pm, and on Sat and Sun from noon to 11 pm. Free.

JULY 28 ù HOUGHTON'S POND FAMILY FISH FESTIVAL
Houghton's Pond, Hillside St (Exit 3 from Rte 93), Milton, MA (map)
781.340.6976
Tie knots, identify fish, and cast lines. Rods and reels will be available for new anglers to test their skills. Free bait provided. Runs from 10 am to 2:30 pm at Blue Hills Reservation. Free.

JULY 28 THROUGH AUG 5 ù NEWBURYPORT YANKEE HOMECOMING
Downtown Newburyport, MA (map)
978.462.7676
http://www.yankeehomecoming.com

One of America's oldest festivals. Includes waterfront concert series, old-fashioned sidewalk sales, Beach Blast, Market Square Day, Sat-night fireworks, and a parade at 12:30 pm on the last day of the festival. Check the Web site for times and further information.

AUG 2, 3, AND 4 ù GLOUCESTER SIDEWALK BAZAAR
Main St, Gloucester, MA (map)
978.283.1601
info@capeannchamber.com
http://www.cape-ann.com/events

A North Shore retail extravaganza. Sales, food, and entertainment. Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Free.

AUG 2 THROUGH 5 ù FEAST OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT
Madeira Field, New Bedford, MA (map)
508.992.6911
clubesss@comcast.net
http://www.portuguesefeast.com

The largest Portuguese festival in the country, with music, food, a parade (on Sun), a giant midway, and a 5K road race. Entertainment on Thurs and Fri from 6:15 pm to 10 pm, on Sat from 1 to 11 pm, and on Sun from 2 to 10:30 pm. Free.

AUG 2 THROUGH 5 ù LOWELL QUILT FESTIVAL
Lowell Memorial Auditorium, Lowell, MA (map)
978.452.4207
info@lowellquiltfestival.org
http://www.lowellquiltfestival.org

Exhibits, vendors, classes, auctions, appraisals, and food stands can be found throughout the city. The quilt festival also includes quilt exhibits at the DoubleTree Hotel and the New England Quilt Museum. A complete schedule of events and activities is avaliable through the New England Quilt Museum. Open on Thurs, Fri and Sat from 10 am to 6 pm, and on Sun from 10 am to 4 pm. Tickets $10. Group rates available.

AUG 3 AND 4 ù 18TH ANNUAL SALEM MARITIME FESTIVAL
Derby Wharf, Salem, MA (map)
978.740.1660
http://www.salemweb.com/calendar

A celebration of New England's maritime heritage. The festival features tours of the tall ship, Friendship, craft demonstrations, food, and music. Concerts on Fri night, followed by a day of festivities on Sat from 10 am to dusk. Free.

AUG 3, 4, AND 5 ù ST. AGRIPPINA FESTIVAL
Hanover & Battery St, North End, Boston, MA (map)
617.319.5070
Agrippina is reputed to intercede against evil spirits, leprosy, and thunderstorms. Now more than ever. Festival takes place on Fri from 5 to 11 pm and on Sat and Sun from noon to 11 pm. Procession is on Sun at 1 pm, followed by tug of war at 7 pm. Rain or shine. Free.

AUG 9 THROUGH 12 ù FALL RIVER CELEBRATES AMERICA
Battleship Cove at Heritage State Park, Fall River, MA (map)
508.676.8226
http://www.fallrivercelebrates.com

"Honoring Our Veterans" is the theme for the festival's 21st anniversary. International food court, country music, concerts, parade, fireworks, carnival, talent-search competition, and crafts. Open on Thurs from 5 to 10 pm, on Fri from 4 to 11 pm, on Sat from noon to 11 pm, and on Sun from noon to 10:30 pm. Admission $10.

AUG 10, 11, AND 12 ù DOMINICAN FESTIVAL
Ramsey Park, Boston, MA (map)
617.201.2909
Celebrate the Dominican Republic's Restoration Day and Independence Day. Dominican, Haitian, and Jamaican food, plus live entertainment from merengue, salsa, and bachata bands. DJs spin music between live sessions, and other attractions include carnival rides and face painting. Parade at noon on Sun.. Open every day from noon to 7 pm. Free.

AUG 10, 11, AND 12 ù IRISH CONNECTIONS FESTIVAL
the Irish Cultural Centre of New England, 200 New Boston Dr, Canton, MA (map)
781.821.8291
jsmith@iconsfestival.com
http://www.iconsfestival.com

You don't have to be Irish to join the fun as the world's best Irish music, dance, art and culture come together for three days. More than 200 singers, musicians, and dancers perform continuously on three stages. Open on Fri from 7 pm to midnight, on Sat from noon to midnight, and on Sun from noon to 9 pm. Check the Web site for admission prices and ticket information.

AUG 10, 11, AND 12 ù MADONNA DELLA CAVA FEAST
Hanover & Battery St, North End, Boston, MA (map)
617.523.8842
This festival celebrates the story of a statue found in a cave by a boy who dreamed heÆd find a statue in a cave. Coincidence? Runs Fri night and all day on Sat and Sun.. Procession on Sun at 1 pm. Free.

AUG 12 ù AUGUST MOON FESTIVAL
Chinatown Gates and Harrison Ave, Boston, MA (map)
617.542.2574
http://www.chinatownmainstreet.org

ChinatownÆs summer celebration features folk dancing, martial arts demonstrations, food, arts and crafts, and Chinese opera performances. Open from 11 am to 5 pm. Free.

AUG 12 THROUGH 18 ù CARNIVAL 2007
Provincetown, MA (map)
800.637.8696 or 508.487.2313
info@ptown.org
http://www.ptown.org

This festival has all the glitter, glamour, and riotous revelry you could ever hope for in otherwise buttoned-down New England. Look for nightclub entertainment, cocktail parties, musical productions, dance balls, and an extravagant costume parade. All the street festivities are free. The "Fairy Tales" Carnival parade gets going on Thurs at 3 pm.

AUG 16 THROUGH 19 ù MADONNA DEL SOCCORSO (FISHERMAN'S FESTIVAL)
North, Fleet, and Lewis Sts, North End, Boston, MA (map)
781.241.7553
mail@fishermansfeast.com
http://www.fishermansfeast.com

Now in its 97th year, this big festival with roots in Sciacca, Sicily, is Boston's oldest continuous Italian festival. Festivities begin Thurs, 5 to 11 pm, with the Blessing of the Waters at Columbus Park at 7 pm. Festivities continue on Fri from 5 to 11 pm, and on Sat and Sun from noon to 11 pm. Procession on Sun at noon. Free.

AUG 17 ù FIREWORKS AT OCEAN PARK
Ocean Park, Beach Rd, Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard, MA (map)
508.693.2892
obainfo@yahoo.com
http://www.oakbluffsmv.com

Band concert begins at 8 pm, followed by fireworks over the ocean at dark. Free.

AUG 17 AND 18 ù HARDWICK COMMUNITY FAIR
Town Common, Rte 32A, Hardwick, MA (map)
413.477.0213
http://www.hardwickfair.com

As the oldest-continually-running town fair in the United States, country fun abounds at this shindig, which includes a lumberjack contest, hay rides, frog jumping, and a cookout. Sheep, cattle, and rabbit shows vie for attention with vegetable, flower, and craft exhibits. Check the Web site for schedule. Free.

AUG 18 AND 19 ù LATIN AMERICAN FESTIVAL
Worcester Common (behind City Hall), Worcester, MA (map)
508.798.1900
info@centrolasamericas.org
http://www.centrolasamericas.org

Food, crafts, childrenÆs rides, and folk dancing. Sponsored by Centro Las Americas. Open from noon to 9 pm. Free.

AUG 19 AND 20 ù GLOUCESTER WATERFRONT FESTIVAL
State Fort Park, Gloucester, MA (map)
978.283.1601
info@capeannchamber.com
http://www.capeannvacations.com/wf/

Arts and crafts show, entertainment, and food. Pancake breakfast on Sat morning, and lobster bake on Sun afternoon. The festival is open from 10 am to 6 pm. Free. Rain or shine.

AUG 24 ù CRANE BEACH SAND BLAST
Crane Beach, Ipswich, MA (map)
978.356.4351
castlehill@ttor.org
http://www.craneestate.org

Crane BeachÆs annual sand-sculpture competition. This year's theme is "Save the Wave." The building starts at 8 am, and awards will be presented at 4 pm. Entry fee is $18 for member teams and $29 for non-member teams. Advance registration is highly recommended.

AUG 24, 25, AND 26 ù ST. ANTHONY'S FEAST
Endicott St between North Margin and Thatcher Sts, North End, Boston, MA (map)
617.523.2110
http://htttp://www.saintanthonysfeast.com

Opening ceremonies begin on Fri at 7 pm. Celebration continues on Sat and Sun from noon to 11 pm, with the grand procession on Sun at noon. Free.

AUG 25 AND 26 ù ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC BOAT FESTIVAL
Hawthorne Cove Marina, 10 White St, Salem, MA (map)
617.666.8530
http://www.by-the-sea.com/bacbfestival

Classic sailboats, powerboats, and hand-powered craft will be on display on Sat from 11 am to 5 pm, and on Sun from 11 am to 3 pm. Admission $5, free for children 12 and under.

AUG 27 ù ST. LUCY'S FEAST
Endicott St, North End, Boston, MA (map)
617.723.8669
http://www.saintanthonysfeast.com/SaintLucy.html

Procession starts at 5 pm. Free.

AUG 31 AND SEPT 1 ù ANNUAL AIDS SUPPORT GROUP OF CAPE COD SILENT & LIVE AUCTIONS
Town Hall and MacMillan Pier, Provincetown, MA (map)
508.487.9445 ext 32
events@asgcc.org
http://www.asgcc.org

The 21st annual fundraiser for the AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod. The silent auction takes place at the Provincetown Town Hall on Fri. from noon to 9 pm, and the live auction at MacMillan Pier begins at 5 pm on Sat.

AUG 31 THROUGH SEPT 3 ù GLOUCESTER SCHOONER FESTIVAL
Gloucester Harbor, Gloucester, MA (map)
978.283.1601
info@capeannchamber.com
http://www.capeannvacations.com/schooner

MayorÆs Race for 100-foot schooners, races for other classes, a parade of sails, deck tours, public sails, and other maritime activities. Don't miss the boatlight parade down the Annisquam River to Gloucester Harbor on Sat, followed by a fireworks display at 9:30 pm. Activities on Sun include the Parade of Sail at 9 am followed by the Mayor's Race at 11 am. Admission is free.