Summer’s here and we’ve gathered 80 can’t-miss fairs, festivals, activities and events throughout New England that you don’t want to miss. Check out our picks for your summer of fun!
Boston Harbor Hotel’s Summer in the City Entertainment Series, through August 30, Boston, Mass. Celebrate summer with the Boston Harbor Hotel’s Summer in the City Entertainment Series featuring four nights of outdoor summer fun on the Boston Waterfront. Enjoy live music on Tuesdays (Pop-Soul), Rat Pack Wednesdays, Blues Barge Thursdays and on Friday it’s movie night when the sun goes down.
Ogunquit Playhouse, 10 Main St., Ogunquit, Maine. One of the last remaining summer theatres from the Straw Hat Circuit, also referred to as Summer Stock, the Ogunquit Playhouse still produces live musical theatre with world-class performances. Catch one this summer.
Bristol Fourth of July Celebration, June 14 to July 14, Bristol, RI. The nation’s oldest Fourth of July Celebration is one not to be missed. Bristol, known as “America’s most patriotic town,” plays host to this three-week celebration which includes outdoor concerts at Independence Park, Orange Crate Derby races, a firefighters’ muster, Fourth of July Ball, Drum & Bugle Corps Show and more. The celebration concludes on July 4 with “The Military, Civic and Firemen’s Parade,” which is viewed by more than 200,000. people from Rhode Island and around the world. These long lasting celebrations give Bristol its nickname, “America’s most patriotic town”.
Tanglewood, June 15 to Aug. 25, Lenox, Mass. The summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra since 1937, plays host to performances by the BSO, and others all summer long including: Earth Wind & Fire, Josh Groban, James Taylor, Train and Goo Goo Dolls and more.
ComiCONN, July 18-21, Foxwoods, Conn. ComiCONN “A Show for the Fans by the Fan,” Connecticut’s favorite comic book and pop culture show takes place at Foxwoods Resort and Casino in Connecticut.
Taste of the Nation, June 19, 14 Hancock St., Portsmouth, NH. Celebrate Portsmouth’s hottest foods and beverages at this annual event set on the lawn of the Strawbery Banke Museum. Portsmouth’s Taste of the Nation features a gathering of culinary professionals united in fighting to end childhood hunger in the Seacoast and across the country.
The 19th Annual Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic, June 20-22, Hampton, NH. The fun starts Thursday, June 20 when 200 tons of imported sand is dropped on Hampton Beach, for this invitation-only competition. The entire area is illuminated for night viewing through June 27.
Portland Schoonerfest & Regatta 2019, June 21-24, Portland Harborfront, Portland, Maine. Kick off the summer sailing season solstice weekend with this annual event featuring seven large, traditional schooners racing and parading under sail together in Portland Harbor with passengers participating onboard and viewing from shore. Last year’s event featured some of the most famous schooners in the country
Luke Bryan Sunset Repeat Tour, June 21, Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, Mass. Luke Bryan brings his Sunset Repeat Tour to Gillette Stadium with special guests multi-platinum Cole Swindell, Brett Young and Jon Langston. DJ Rock will also appear.
Newport Flower Show, June 21-23, Rosecliff, 548 Bellevue Ave,, Newport, RI. Rosecliff was the birthplace of the American Beauty Rose, which will be the centerpiece of this year’s flower show. Show highlights: floral designs, horticulture exhibits, garden displays, unique shopping opportunities, Champagne & jazz brunch, authors' afternoon tea, lectures and demonstrations, and children's activities.
Car Racing at New England Dragway, 280 Exeter Rd, Epping, NH. Races happen Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays and Sundays and have been happening at New England Dragway for more than 50 years. Check their full schedule and grab the family for some car racing all summer long.
New England Brewfest, June 22, Village Shops, Lincoln, NH. Breweries from across New England will gather to tap into their exceptional brews at the annual New England Brewfest! Come to the Lincoln Village Shops in Lincoln, New Hampshire – in the heart of the White Mountains – to sample and learn about these delicious craft brews. There will be 30 breweries and more than 100 beers on tap. While you’re tasting, enjoy live entertainment, craft beer education programs, great food and exhibits offering brew paraphernalia and souvenirs. Lodging packages available; see website for details.
The Maine Whoopie Pie Festival, June 22, Dover-Foxcroft, Maine. Celebrate the taste of Maine’s favorite dessert at the 2019 Maine Whoopie Pie Festival. Dozens of bakers with thousands of Whoopie Pies will be on hand. Sample, purchase and enjoy this unique Maine delicacy. Come for the Whoopie Pies, but stay all day to enjoy live music, food, arts and crafts, vendors, and fun activities for the whole family! For the first time this year, the festival will also be crowning the festival Big Whoop.
Boston Pickle Fair 2019, June 22, The Innovation and Design Building, One Design Center Place, Boston, Mass. The Boston Pickle Fair returns for its third year in a row celebrating all your favorite fermented things. Enjoy pickle samples, access to the beer garden, an indoor pickle lounger, entertainment and more.
Connecticut’s Historic Gardens Day, June 23, public gardens statewide. Enjoy this celebration of Connecticut’s historic gardens. Member gardens host special events and activities. See websites of individual gardens for schedules. Gardens include Bellamy-Ferriday House and Garden in Bethlehem; Butler-McCook House and Garden in Hartford; Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme; Glebe House Museum and The Gertrude Jekyll Garden in Woodbury; Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, Harriet Beecher Stowe Center in Hartford; Hill-Stead Museum in Farmington; Osborne Homestead Museum; Phelps-Hatheway House in Suffield; Promisek at Three Rivers Farm in Bridgewater; Roseland Cottage in Woodstock; Stanley-Whitman House in Farmington; Thankful Arnold House Museum, Haddam Historical Society in Haddam; Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum in Wethersfield; and Weir Farm National Historic in Wilton.
Annual Windjammer Days Festival, June 23-29, Boothbay Harbor, Maine. The Friends of Windjammer Days, a group of local citizens and business owners, says the yearly celebration of these magnificent tall ships, which played a key role in making Boothbay Harbor a center of American ship building, has historically been a community-led effort that kicks off the summer tourist season and brings a significant boost to the region’s economy.
Ronan Park Kite Festival, June 23, Ronan Park, 135 Adams St., Boston, Mass. This annual kit festival is a family friendly event not to be missed. There will be kites on hand while supplies last, food trucks, kids art, a plant swap and more.
Vermont Quilt Festival, June 26-29, Champlain Valley Exposition, 105 Pearl St. (VT Rte. 15), Essex Junction, Vt. New England’s oldest and largest quilt festival offers quilters a wide variety of quilting related resources, exhibits, opportunities for networking and education, all while honoring and celebrating the history of quilting. Quilters of all ages and expertise will enjoy the festival.
St. Peter’s Fiesta Festival, June 26-30, Gloucester, Mass. St. Peter's Fiesta is a five-day festival honoring the patron saint of the fisherman St. Peter. The festival is put on by the Italian American community of Gloucester, Massachusetts. Events include a carnival, the Greasy Pole contest, Seine Boat races parades and ending with the Blessing of the Fleet Mass on Sunday.
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Norfolk Chamber Music Festival, June 28 to Aug. 17, Ellen Battell Stoeckel Estate, Norfolk, Conn. The Norfolk Chamber Music Festival is a summer-long season of chamber music featuring world-class artists and ensembles. This event is hosted by the Yale University School of Music.
44th Annual South Berwick Strawberry Festival, June 29, South Berwick, Maine. This volunteer festival gets bigger and better every year. Enjoy strawberry shortcake or strawberries on ice cream under the tents, or choose from the many food tables. There are crafts and jewelry for sale by many vendors, live music and entertainment throughout the day and childrens’ rides and events.
Annual Boston Harborfest, July 1-7, Boston, Mass. With hundreds of activities over Independence Day weekend at Boston's best landmarks, this family-friendly event is the country's largest Fourth of July festival. Activities include the annual opening ceremony at Faneuil Hall, historical reenactments, Freedom Trail walks, Duck Boat Tours, live entertainment and more.
The New Hampshire Music Festival, July 2 to Aug. 1, Plymouth State University, 114 Main St., Plymouth, NH. Now in its 67th season, the New Hampshire Music Festival honors the tradition of classical music while exploring new artistic paths, offering patrons an engaging, immersive festival experience by presenting world-class performances of symphonic, choral and chamber music.
10th Annual Finish at the 50 Road Races and Fireworks Spectacular at Patriot Place, July 3, Patriot Place, Foxboro, Mass. Kick off your Fourth of July celebration at Patriot Place on July 3 with the 10th Annual Finish at the 50 Road Races and Fireworks Spectacular. Enjoy live music performances, balloon twisting, a caricature artist and oversized games like JENGA, along with appearances by the New England Revolution Street Team, the New England Patriots Cheerleaders, Pat Patriot and the End Zone Militia. Registration for the three race options: a Kids Fun Run, the 5K and 10K can be found at www.finishatthe50.com.The day wraps up with the annual fireworks show following the 10K race with a 20-minute display beginning approximately at 9:30 p.m. The fireworks can be seen with Gillette Stadium as the backdrop throughout Patriot Place’s North Marketplace and parking lots.
Boston Fireworks and Boston Pops July 4 Concert, July 4, Boston, Mass. Hang out with Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops for the July 3 and 4 concert presentations at the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) Hatch Memorial Shell located on the Charles River Esplanade. This year’s featured artists include: Queen Latifah, Arlo Guthrie, Amanda Mena and the Texas Tenors
Annual Stoweflake Hot Air Balloon Festival, July 5-7, Stowe, Vt. Watch as more than two dozen hot air balloons fill the sky at the annual Stoweflake Hot Air Balloon Festival. Enjoy free admission when you stay at Stoweflake and don’t miss a single moment. View breathtaking launches, enjoy live entertainment, all while sitting back and relaxing with offerings in the beer and wine garden. Plus enjoy lots of other great activities all within walking distance of Stoweflake. Kick start your getaway with a Bloody Mary and delicious breakfast at Charlie B’s. Take a dip in our indoor swimming pool or venture out into the many shops of the Mountain Road Marketplace before the festival. You’ll be delighted by all the activities you can take part in all within walking distance of Stoweflake!
Phish, July 5 & 6, Fenway Park, Boston, Mass. Phish returns to Fenway Park for two shows July 5 and 6.
Newburyport Blues Cruise, July 6, Waterfront Park, Newburyport, Mass. Newburyport Blues Cruises kick off on July 6 with their Tribute to the Statesman of the Blues, Mr. Shor’ty Billups hosted by James Montgomery. A Yankee Homecoming “Blues n’ Brews” Cruise with Gracie Curran and the High Falutin’ Band is set for July 27 and don’t miss their annual Annual New Orleans Party Cruise & Tribute to Shirley Lewis with Henri Smith, Amadee Castenell and the Band “Friends & Flavours” on August 31.
New Bedford Folk Festival, July 6-7, New Bedford, Mass. The New Bedford Folk Festival brings together more than 70 renowned and emerging performers and 90 plus juried arts and crafts vendors in New Bedford’s authentic historic district in July. The two-day family-oriented festival offers continuous folk music from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on seven sound stages in and around the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park ranging from the majestic 1,200 seat Zeiterion Performing Arts Theater to the intimacy of the National Park Garden Stage.
Summer Block Party, July 6, The Lawn on D, Boston, Mass. This annual, favorite event is now two days featuring the Blue Man Group drum-off and show, bubble soccer, mini golf, salsa dancing, rock climbing, temporary tattoos, games and more.
The Nantucket Comedy Festival, July 11-13, Nantucket, Mass. Founded in 2007, the Nantucket Comedy Festival is an annual summer event that brings top comedic talent to Nantucket Island as the major fundraiser for Stand Up & Learn, an island-based, year-round comedy education program serving Nantucket's children. The Nantucket Comedy Festival envisions Nantucket as a community connected by laughter.
Maine Windjammer Parade 2019, July 12, Rockland Breakwater, end of Samoset Road, Rockland, Maine. The entire windjammer fleet participates in an afternoon Parade of Sail past the mile-long Rockland Breakwater, providing spectators with stunning, close-up views of Maine’s fleet of tall ships.
Sailfest, July 12-14, New London, Conn. Southeastern Connecticut’s premiere summertime event, brings fireworks, amusement rides, free entertainment, ships, and more than 200 vendors lining the streets throughout New London’s waterfront park and surrounding area.
Moxie Festival, July 12-14, Lisbon Falls, Maine. Enjoy this annual festival in honor of a beverage that has a cult following in New England, complete with music, entertainment, food, fireworks, parades and carnival games. Since 1982, the Moxie Festival has been held on the second weekend in July in Lisbon, Maine, home of the world famous Moxie Store.
Green River Festival, July 12-14, Greenfield Community College, Greenfield, Mass. The Green River Festival is Western Massachusetts’ signature summer event. For one weekend every July, Greenfield Community College hosts an outrageous celebration of world class music, great local food, beer, and wine, a handmade craft fair, and lots of family games and activities. And it’s all topped off with four hot air balloon launches and a spectacular Saturday night balloon glow.
Northeast Food Festival & Balloon Rally Expo, July 12-14, Three County Fairgrounds, 54 Fair St., Northampton, Mass. Catch balloon launches, tethered balloon rides, and hot air balloon activities happening all weekend long with more than 15 balloons expected. Plus, don’t miss the Northeast Food Festival featuring more than 30 of New England’s top gourmet food trucks, the New England Bacon Eating Contest, top regional performers, amusement rides and games, petting zoo and more.
Jamaica Plain Porchfest, July 13, Jamaica Plain, Mass. Featuring hundreds of performers of all kinds on more than 80 porches, this year’s porch fest is sure to delight. Enjoy storytellers, artists, dancers, theater performers, circus artists, bands and more through the city all day long.
North Atlantic Blues Festival, July 13-14, Rockland, Maine. The North Atlantic Blues Festival returns for two days featuring national blues performers. The festival is held at the Public Landing in Rockland, Maine, overlooking the picturesque Rockland Harbor. Along with all-day live live entertainment, enjoy vendors selling a wide array of food, drinks and crafts. On Saturday evening Main Street is closed to traffic for the NABF Club Crawl. Attendees of legal age, wearing their wristband from the festival are allowed free admission to the many bars and restaurants featuring many of the top regional blues performers. There are also bands performing on Main Street for all ages at no charge.
Boston Pizza Festival, July 13-14, Boston, Mass. The Boston Pizza Festival returns for its third year, showcasing pizzerians from all over the world, including Boston’s finest. Enjoy live music, pizza acrobats, beer and wine, giveaways and more.
Stratham Fair, July 18-21, Stratham Hill Park, Rte. 33 Stratham, NH. Experience a piece of the past… in the present. Established in 1967, the Stratham Fair follows in the traditions of old country fairs. Come and enjoy all the fair has to offer. Entertainment for all ages daily, 4H activities and exhibits, midway rides, music and magic acts and more.
Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz, July 19-21, Hartford, Conn. The Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz is a non-profit organization originally conceived by Paul Brown, noted Hartford jazz bassist and music educator. The Greater Hartford Festival of Jazz is a fun, free event the entire family will enjoy. This year’s artists include:
Killington Wine Festival, July 19-21, Killington, Vt. The Killington Wine Festival has earned a reputation for being one of the Killington region’s signature summer events. The festival features more than 500 wines from a collection of more than 40 vineyards around the world.
Yarmouth Clam Festival, July 19-21, Yarmouth, Maine. The Yarmouth Clam Festival is an annual summer event that promotes the community and provides opportunities for Yarmouth-based non-profit organizations to raise funds in support of their missions. This free-admission event features food, music, contests and more, all to benefit local non-profits. Enjoy a Friday night parade, Saturday night fireworks, live music from three stages, arts & crafts shows, road races and more.
Vermont Brewers Festival, July 19-20, Burlington, Vt. The Vermont Brewers Festival is the one of the premier beer festivals in the world, held on the waterfront of Lake Champlain overlooking the Adirondack Mountains. Hosted by the Vermont Brewers Association, this year marks the festival’s 27th anniversary.
Guilford Art Center Craft Expo, July 19-21, Guilford Green, Guilford, Conn. Celebrating its 62nd year, the Guilford Art Center’s annual Craft Expo returns to the historic Guilford Green, celebrating the arts with its extensive array of handmade crafts by 180 nationally-recognized, American artists.
Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival 2019, July 20, Florence (Northampton), Mass. Celebrating it’s 26th anniversary, the Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival is the only Scottish Festival in Massachusetts, and the second largest in New England. Enjoy dancers, athletes, entertainment and more fun for the entire family.
Luke Bryan at Gillette Stadium, July 21, Foxborough, Mass. Luke Bryan brings his Sunset Repeat Tour to Gillette Stadium with special guests multi-platinum Cole Swindell, Brett Young and Jon Langston. DJ Rock will also appear.
Liverpool Football Club vs. Sevilla FC, July 21, Fenway Park, 4 Yawkey Way, Boston, Mass. Liverpool Football Club returns to Fenway Park as part of their 2019/2020 preseason preparations to meet Spain's oldest football club, Sevilla FC.
Bangor State Fair, July 25 to August 3, Bangor, Maine. This popular 10-day event exhibits a wide range of open ride specials, food and beverages, free music and entertainment and family oriented games, animal shows and more.
International Sand Sculpting Festival, July 26-28, Revere Beach, Revere, Mass. It wouldn’t be summer without this festival featuring incredible designs by master sand sculptors from around the world in this international contest.
Newport Folk Festival, July 26-28, Fort Adams State Park, Newport, RI. This annual festival at Fort Adams State Park in Newport, RI, features more than 50 artists on four stages of music, food and crafts and a number of displays.
Litchfield Jazz Fest, July 26-28, The Gunnery, Washington, Conn. The Litchfield Jazz Festival will celebrate 24 years this summer with a new location at The Gunnery in Washington Conn. The annual event is know for shining the spotlight on up-and-coming talent.
Lowell Folk Festival, July 26-28, Lowell, Mass. There’s so much to see, eat, hear, do and discover at the Annual Lowell Folk Festival! Celebrating its 33rd year, the festival features five stages of traditional music, authentic crafts demonstrations, ethnic foods, art and children’s activities.
24th Annual Litchfield Jazz Festival, July 26-28, Washington, Conn. The Litchfield Jazz Festival is a favorite of the public and critics alike. This year, the festival is moving to The Gunnery in Washington, Conn., coinciding with the conclusion of the four-week-long Litchfield Jazz Camp.
Deerfield Valley Blueberry Festival, July 26 to August 4, Mount Snow Valley, Vt. Berries, Vintage Cars, Music, and Food. If it’s blue, it’s probably happening in the Southern Vermont Deerfield Valley area towns of Wilmington, Whitingham and Dover in late July and early August. The Deerfield Valley Blueberry Festival is the culmination of a community effort coordinated by Janet Boyd from Boyd Family Farm in Wilmington and the Southern Vermont Deerfield Valley Chamber of Commerce in which dozens of businesses, organizations and individuals have created blueberry or blue themed events happening each day throughout the festival.
Newport Antiques Show, July 27-28, St. George’s School, 372 Purgatory Road, Middletown, RI. Established in 2007, The Newport Antiques Show is one of the nation’s premier antiques venues presenting a wide selection of important Americana antiques. Major dealers present paintings, furniture, folk art, jewelry, and fine and decorative arts. A gala preview party takes place July 26.
The 28th Woods Hole Film Festival, July 27 to Aug. 3, Woods Hole, Mass. This festival of independent film is held each summer and emphasizes the work of first-time, New England filmmakers and showcases the work of independent filmmakers. The 28th Woods Hole Film Festival s an eight day showcase of independent film featuring daily screenings, workshops, panel discussions, special events, master classes, parties, awards ceremony and more.
Cultural Survival Bazaar, July 27-28, Tiverton Four Corners Art Center, 3852 Main Road, Tiverton, RI. A festival of indigenous art, music and cultures from around the world. Shop for unique art, jewelry, clothing, crafts, decor, tribal rugs and much more. Enjoy music performances by a variety of world artists, presentations, Native American storytelling, educational displays, craft-making demonstrations and Wampanoag cuisine.
The 20th Annual Valley Chocolate Fest & Live Music, July 27, Waterville Valley, NH. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth, enjoy an evening of chocolate temptations in Town Square accompanied by a free outdoor concert as the sun sets.
Water Lantern Festival, July 27, DCR Hatch Memorial Shell, 47 David G Mugar Way Boston, Mass. Enjoy an evening of fun, happiness and hope at the family-friendly Water Lantern Festival as you witness the magic of the lanterns as they light up the water.
Maine Lobster Festival, July 31 to August 4, Rockland, Maine. The Maine Lobster Festival is five days of fun and feasting on the coast of Maine.What started as an idea for a local marine festival to revive Midcoast Maine communities has turned into an internationally-recognized celebration of local seafood. Enjoy fresh seafood, childrens’ events, live entertainment and more.
105th Annual Portuguese Feast of the Blessed Sacrament, Aug. 1-4, Madeira Field, New Bedford, Mass. Founded in 1915 by four Madeiran immigrant men who wanted to recreate the religious festivals that were so common in the villages of their home island and to commemorate their safe passage to these American shores, this traditional mid-summer gathering for family and friends has become the Largest Portuguese Feast in the World and the largest ethnic festival in New England. Enjoy continuous live Portuguese and American entertainment at five performance locations at this event that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually from around the world.
Newport Jazz Festival, Aug. 2-4, Fort Adams State Park and the International Tennis Hall of Fame, Newport, RI. Referred to as the grandfather of all jazz festivals, this event draws thousands of people from all over the world to Newport, Rhode Island — a city famed for its spectacular coastal scenery and awe-inspiring architecture. The Newport Jazz Festival was founded in 1954 as the first annual jazz festival in America and has been host to numerous legendary performances by some of the world’s leading established and emerging artists.
Salem’s Annual Maritime Festival, Aug. 3-4, Salem, Mass. Hosted by Salem Maritime National Historic Site in cooperation with the Essex National Heritage Commission, the annual festival features live music, historical reenactors, harbor cruises, demonstrations, interactive programs, arts, crafts, and more.
2019 Annual Craftsmen’s Fair, Aug. 3-11, Mount Sunapee Resort, 1398 Rte.103, Newbury, NH. Celebrate traditional and contemporary craft during this nationally-renowned nine-day fair where you can view and shop the handcrafted work of more than 300 juried craftsmen.
8th Annual Boston Seafood Festival, Aug. 4, Boston, Mass. Enjoy seafood, clambakes, educational events and family fun at the 8th Annual Boston Seafood Festival. And while you’re there, learn all about the oldest industry in the U.S.
62nd Annual New Hampshire Antiques Show, Aug. 8-10, Manchester, NH. Sponsored by the New Hampshire Antiques Dealers Association, the 62nd Annual New Hampshire Antiques Show is a place where you can join the thousands of collectors, designers, museum curators and dealers from around the country who take part in this six-decade long tradition. The event features exhibitors offering a wide range of both country and formal antique furniture and accessories. Managed by a team of dedicated volunteers, the New Hampshire Antiques Show is among the best shows of American antiques in the country.
Annual Winter Harbor Lobster Festival, Aug. 10, Winter Harbor, Maine. North of Acadia National Park, Winter Harbor is on a scenic peninsula with an active fleet of lobster boats. Each August, the harbor draws many visitors for this annual event. Watch lobster boat races, enjoy a blueberry pancake breakfast and Maine lobster dinner, plus shop at the craft fair.
Spruce Peak Folk Festival 2019, Aug. 10-11, Spruce Peak, 122 Hourglass Drive, Stowe, Vt. Enjoy traditional and cutting-edge Americana, bluegrass, and folk held on the green at Spruce Peak in Stowe at this family-friendly festival.
62nd Annual Mystic Outdoor Art Festival, Aug. 10-11, Mystic, Conn. The 62nd Mystic Outdoor Art Festival will celebrate sustainability and our oceans and showcases more than 230 artists from around the U.S., with more than two miles of arts and crafts including oils, watercolors, photographs, pastels, sculpture, woodwork, comics, acrylics, and more. The Mystic Outdoor Art Festival, lovingly known as "MOAF," is a free event featuring activities and artwork for all ages to enjoy, including a Children's Art Park located in Mystic River Park.
Vermont Cheese Festival, Aug. 11, Shelburne Farms, Shelburne, Vt. Did you know Vermont is a world class cheese state with the highest number of cheese makers per capita? There’s 50 of them and at the Vermont Cheese Festival, you can share their passion for making exceptional cheeses, taste great local foods, wines, craft beers and spirits and meet the artisans who make them.
Vermont State Fair, Aug. 13-17, Rutland, Vt. Celebrating its 173rd year, the Vermont State Fair is one of the oldest state fairs in the United States, offering fun for the entire family. Enjoy entertainment, agriculture , live shows and attractions, two nights of demolition derby action, a thrill show, National Comedian Bob Nelson and Vinnie Mark on Aug 18, Aug 20 MMA action. Plus don't miss Draw the Line, the Vermont Burlesque shows and the return of Amusements of America to the midway.
Washington County Fair, Aug. 14-18, Richmond, RI. The 53rd Washington County Fair continues its annual New England Tradition. Rhode Island's largest agricultural event, draws some of today’s biggest country music stars. Enjoy daily concerts, special acts and events, the giant midway and kiddy land area, agricultural events and shows, exhibits and displays, tractor and horse pulls, the farm museum, and more.
109th Anniversary of the Fisherman's Feast, Aug. 15-18, Lewis St., Boston, Mass. The 109th Anniversary of the Fisherman's Feast kicks off on Thursday, Aug. 15 at 6:30 p.m. with the procession of La Madonna Del Soccorso to the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park for the annual blessing of the fishing waters. The Feast continues through the weekend and comes to a close with the famous Flight of the Angel. This is one Boston tradition, you don’t want to miss.
Annual Provincetown Jazz Festival, Aug. 15 & 19, Provincetown and Cotuit, Mass. Two days of great jazz in two towns on Cape Cod. At the very tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown is a colorful community with many shops and restaurants, whale watching and beautiful beaches.
92nd Grecian Festival, Aug. 16-18, Assumption of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, 97 Walcott St., Pawtucket, RI. Eat, sing and dance at this annual celebration of the music, spirit, culture and cuisine of Greece.
The 152nd Annual Marshfield Fair, Aug. 16-25, Marshfield, Mass. The 152nd annual Marshfield Fair is set to once again draws hundreds of competitors in 4-H, arts and crafts, agricultural and horticultural events while also bringing more fun for the entire family with games, carnival rides and more.
Annual White Mountain Boogie N’ Blues Festival, Aug. 16-18, between Waterville Valley and Loon Mountain, NH. Now in its 23rd year, the largest outdoor blues festival in New Hampshire features award-winning blues artists, food vendors, craft vendors, a climbing wall, fun activities for children and Saturday night fireworks. and many fun activities for children including Saturday night fireworks. The festival is held in the heart of the White Mountains and the boogie stage is in a natural amphitheater located on a 72-acre pasture in the Pemigewasset River Valley.
Annual Festival of the Arts, Aug. 16-18, Chatham, Mass. More than 120 booths showcasing fine art, crafts, jewelry, glass, ceramics, photography, woodworking, sculpture and more. Children’s tent daily featuring face painting and arts and crafts activities. Gourmet food trucks will be available on the Green for your refreshment. A great day out for the whole family.
Machias Wild Blueberry Festival, Aug. 16-18, Machias, Maine. Come celebrate the powerful little fruit that put this section of Downeast Maine on the map. Enjoy crafts, food, entertainment, contests, and all things blueberry at this annual event.
25th Annual Great Falls Balloon Festival, Aug. 16-18, Lewiston/Auburn, Maine. This annual hot-air balloon festival features more than two dozen balloons, including ones in special shapes. Events include balloon rides and tethered balloons (weather permitting), musical entertainment, family fun day, craft and trade vendors, various food booths, exhibitors, children’s activities, carnival and more.
Annual Gloucester Waterfront Festival, Aug. 17-18, Gloucester, Mass. More than 200 Juried Artisans, Craftspeople, Food Vendors, Authors and Musicians from throughout the United States will display and sell their American made works at the Annual Gloucester Waterfront Festival. Bring your appetite for the food court, featuring traditional fair fare and enjoy free “family style” entertainment including live music and various performance arts.
45th Annual Milford Oyster Festival, August 17, Milford, Conn. Celebrating its 45th year, this family-oriented festival is filled with arts and crafts, harbor activities, entertainment for all ages, colorful tents with food and beverages, a classic car show, canoe and kayak races, children’s games, and national and local entertainers. Several varieties of oysters will be sold at the festival representing some of the most prominent oyster growers on the east coast.
Annual Cotuit Arts & Crafts Festival, Aug. 17 & 18, Cotuit, Mass. For two days in August, the Cotuit Village Green becomes the largest outdoor crafts festival on Cape Cod. Come to this quaint, seaside village to see the wares of 100 outstanding artisans and craftsmen.
The Stockbridge Summer Arts & Crafts Show, Aug. 17 & 18, 50 Main St., Stockbridge, Mass. Now in its 28th year, the Stockbridge Summer Arts & Crafts Show features more than 85 jury selected artists and artisans in historic downtown Stockbridge.
16th Annual Peach Festival, Aug. 17-18, Carlson Orchards, 115 Oak Hill Rd, Harvard, Mass. Enjoy live bluegrass music, and a whole lot more at Carlson Orchards’ 16th Annual Peach Festival.
American Folk Festival, Aug. 23-25, Bangor, Maine. Traditional performers from across the country celebrate the richness and variety of American culture in this free, three-day, multi-stage event. The festival features four stages of music and dance; traditional craft demonstrations and exhibits; a children’s area with activities for the whole family; dozens of food vendors offering ethnic food, regional specialties and traditional festival favorites; and a marketplace offering unique, handcrafted items and “Taste of Maine” treats for sale.
40th Annual Lakes Region Fine Arts and Crafts Festival, Aug. 24-25, Meredith, NH. Celebrating its 40th year, this annual, outdoor, juried arts and crafts exhibition and sale of fine arts and fine crafts, features high-quality works of more than 80 artists and craftspeople. The festival is held outdoors among the Meredith Village Shops and the Mill Falls Marketplace.
Family Fun Day 2019, Aug. 24, Field of Dreams Community Park & Playground, Geremonty Drive, Salem, NH. Enjoy activities for the entire family at Field of Dreams’ 3rd Annual Family Fun Day event, including Touch-a-Truck, a kids’ workshop with Home Depot and photos with your favorite superhero or princess.
Camden Windjammer Festival, Aug. 30-31, Camden, Maine. Watch the arrival of the windjammer fleet into Camden Harbor, enjoy the Schooner Talent Show, Bay Winds North Wind Ensemble Concert at Harbor Park, Fireworks, a pancake breakfast and a chowder challenge lunch, lobster crate race, Pirates of the Dark Rose, first fish relay race, Schooner open house, treasure hunt, build-a-TINY-boat kids’ event, nautical dog show, and more at the 2019 Camden Windjammer Festival over Labor Day weekend.
35th Annual Gloucester Schooner Festival, Aug. 30 to Sept. 2, Gloucester, Mass. Celebrating its 35th year, the Gloucester Schooner Festival celebrates the impact of the fishing schooner on the history of Gloucester. Featured are the last remaining great Gloucester schooning vessels competing in the Mayor’s Race for the Esperanto Cup, a trophy from the first International Fishermen’s Race sailed in 1920. See schooner masts fill the harbor’s skyline, a lighted boat parade and fireworks over the harbor.
Booth Bay Harbor Fest, Aug. 30 to Sept. 2, Boothbay Harbor, Maine. If you love adventure, live music and sipping cocktails on the waterfront, then the Booth Bay Harbor Fest is a Labor Day weekend event you don’t want to miss. Your event passport lets you visit local restaurants, pubs and markets local restaurants, pubs and markets to enjoy their signature taste and live music.
24th Southern Vermont Garlic & Herb Festival, August 31 to Sept. 1, Bennington, Vt. Join garlic-lovers from throughout New England as they come to sample food and crafts from hundreds of different vendors, all made from – garlic and herbs. The kiddos will enjoy face painting, inflatable fun jumps and other great children's activities. On both days, enjoy live music under the tent at the Beer and Wine Garden.
Sunflower Festival, Aug. 31 to Sept. 8, Lanni Orchards, 294 Chase Road, Rte. 13, Lunenburg, Mass. For one week, the Sunflower Festival at Lanni Orchards offers four acres of Sunflowers in a variety of colors ready to pick and take photos in.
The Great Provincetown Schooner Regatta & Yacht Race, Sept. 2-5, Provincetown, Mass. Learn, have fun and see one of the most unique landscapes in New England with the Great Provincetown Schooner Regatta, celebrating the role of the Great Atlantic fishing bank schooner in Provincetown’s maritime history and allowing visitors to experience these historic vessels in port and at sea. The Regatta takes place annually in September beginning on Labor Day and ending with the big race on Thursday. Learn, have fun and see one of the most unique landscapes in New England.
Hampton Seafood Festival, Sept. 6-8, Hampton, NH. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the whole family will enjoy this major seacoast event featuring more than 50 top Seacoast restaurants serving world famous New England seafood. Plus, 80 arts and crafts vendors will be promoting locally made products. There will also be two stages of live, continuous entertainment featuring 15 bands and orchestras, plus a whole lot more including a fireworks spectacular Saturday night and and a sky diving extravaganza by Sky Dive New England.
42nd Annual Norwalk Oyster Festival, Sept. 6-8, Norwalk, Conn. This fun festival celebrates its 42d year. Cheer for your favorites at the slurping and shucking contests, “Go Green” with environmental demonstrations and displays, plus so much more.
Maine Lighthouse Day, Sept.14, along the Maine coast. This popular annual event, which is sponsored by the United States Coast Guard, the Maine Office of Tourism and the American Lighthouse Foundation, attracts between 15,000 to 18,000 visitors each year and offers the general public the rare opportunity to climb and learn about over two dozen historic Maine lights.
Billy Joel, Sept. 14, Fenway Park, 4 Yawkey Way, Boston, Mass. The piano man himself, Billy Joel, returns to Boston with a performance at Fenway Park. Don’t miss this one-night-only event.
10th Annual Boston Local Food Festival, Sept. 15, Rose Kennedy Greenway, Boston, Mass. The 10th Annual Boston Local Food Festival is a free outdoor festival showcasing farmers, local restaurants, food trucks, specialty food producers, fishermen and women, and organizations focusing on healthy food from New England. The festival also features lively chef and DIY demos, a seafood throwdown competition, family fun zone and more.
