September 28, 29, 30, 2018

“What’s Happening”

September 28, 29, 30, 2018

28, 29, 30 – Friday, Saturday, Sunday – 20^thAnnual North Quabbin Garlic and Arts Festival, 10:00-5:00, Foster’s Farm, 60 Chestnut Hill Rd., Orange, MA - Mark your calendars for the fabulous 'Festival that Stinks; Follow your heart (and nose) to this fabulous fall destination. Enjoy and support the bounty of amazing, regional artists, farmers and organizations; strengthen communities by purchasing locally crafted and grown. Gain vision and skills for local living: learn to grow garlic, press cider, mill lumber, grind grain, go solar and much more. For more information visit garlicandarts.org.

28, 29, 30, Friday, Saturday, Sunday – Weekends at the Farm at Hollis Hills Farm, 350 Marshall Rd., Fitchburg, MA – Friday, The ASB Band performs from 7-10; Saturday, The Maniac Loves You performs from 2:00-5:00, and Scott Babineau performs on Sunday from 12:00-3:00. For more information visit hollishillsfarm.com.

29, Ashburnham Farmer’s Market– 9:00-12:00, Meeting House Hill, Hastings Rd., Ashburnham – Vendors include: Rock Pile Farm, Enar’s Favorite Cookies, Koljian Farm, Timberlost Farm, Crowover Farm, Surfing Goat Soaps, J&K’s Good Thyme Farm, Willard Brook Farm, West Hill Bakery, Ashby Naturals, and a whole lot more! 

29, Saturday – 2^ndAnnual Fall Scarecrow Invasion at Winchester Park in Ashburnham, 11:00-2:00, Rain or Shine, - Prize Ribbons, Lunch for sale, Pumpkin Painting, Music by Honky Tonk Hangover. Free.

29, Saturday – 13^thAnnual Oktoberfest “Party in the Street” at the Gardner Ale House, 11:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m., 74 Parker St., Gardner, MA -Beer Garden, Food, Moon Hill Brewing Co. Beer, Live Music, Lawn Games for Adults, Face Painting, Bubble Fun & Sidewalk Art for Kids. For more information visit gardnerale.com.

29, 30 – Saturday and Sunday – 9^thAnnual BBQFest at Wachusett Mountain,10:00-5:00, 499 Mountain Rd., Princeton, MA – There’s BBQ and then there’s Good BBQ!! We’ve assembled some of the finest vendors in the area for this tasty even,t which also features live music, craft fair, farmer’s market, contests and cooking demos. For tickets and more information visit wachusett.com.

29, Saturday – 28^thAnnual Pumpkin Festival hosted by Ashby Public Library, 10:00-4:00, 812 Main St., Ashby - Enjoy a day full of family fun at the Ashby Town Common! There will be live entertainment, food and craft vendors, games and activities for children, a pumpkin decorating contest, and more! Don’t miss the tractor parade at 2:00. All proceeds go directly to the Ashby Library. We hope to see you there!

28, 29, 30, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – League of NH Craftsmen presents the Capital Arts Fest – A weekend-long festival featuring the art and fine craft work of League members, select invited artists, and specialty vendors. Friday, 5:00-8:00; Saturday and Sunday 10:00-5:00. For more information visit nhcrafts.org.

September 22, 23, 2018

Pro.Found Fall Market at Kalon Farm in Lancaster

“What’s Happening”

September 22, 23, 2018

22, Saturday – Wachusett Brewery Ride and Tour, sponsored by Charles River Wheelers, 9:30 for 54 mile trek, 10:00 for 20 and 40 mile treks, 175 State Rd. East, Westminster MA – Enjoy a beautiful rustic ride on mostly quiet country roads in Worcester County. Long ride goes through Westminster, Gardner, Ashburnham, and Winchendon. There are some hills and challenging road terrains, but you’ll be rewarded with some beautiful views and scenery. The 54 and 40 mile rides pass the entrance to Wachusett Mountain for anyone interested in adding some elevation. The long ride goes father north into New Hampshire with some beautiful views of Lake Monomonac. There will be brewery tours and tastings, compliments of Wachusett Brewing Company as well as food and refreshments following the ride. For more information visit crw.org.

22, 23, Saturday and Sunday – KidsFest at Wachusett Mountain, 10:00-5:00, 499 Mountain Rd., Princeton MA - This one’s all about kids and families! Two days filled with entertainment, sows, giveaways, vendors, activities and more! No shortage of fun for everyone! For tickets and more information visit wachusett.com

22, 23, Saturday and Sunday, - The Pro.Found Fall Market at Kalon Farms, Saturday, 8:30-5:00; Sunday, 10:00-4:00, Rt. 117, Lancaster, MA – Join us for our Fall Market featuring 100+ vintage dealers, creative artisans, and makers! This weekend will provide fun for the whole family with local food trucks, brew, wine, and live music. For tickets and more information visit theprofoundmarket.com

22, 23, Saturday and Sunday, - Harvest Festival at Lanni Orchards, 8:00-6:00, 294 Chase Rd., Lunenburg, - Activities will include Pick Your Own apples, grapes, pumpkins; Wizard of Oz corn maze, make your own caramel apples, hayrides, play land, crafts, cider donuts, apple desserts. There is no admission fee to the get into the festival. Tickets are available for the corn maze at the farm stand.

22, 23, Saturday and Sunday – 8^thAnnual Craft Fair at Fruitlands, 10:00-4:00, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard, MA -Enjoy original handmade crafts by 48 New England Artisans during the 8^th Annual Craft Festival at Fruitlands. The Festival is a two-day outdoor-tented show set on the picturesque grounds of the museum. Quality juried craft, museum offerings, and stunning views has made the Festival a popular September destination for all. It’s the perfect opportunity to get a jump on your holiday shopping and find that original gift for the hard-to-buy-for! For your entertainment, there is a food truck, the Café, and live music, courtesy of the Summertime Trio, on both days of the Festival. The Guests’ admission also includes entry to the Museum exhibits and trails. It’s a fun day out with family and friends.New this year, we will be partnering with our friends at Notch Brewing who will host a Beer Garden at the Craft Festival. Relax and socialize over a beer in between shopping and Museum explorations! For more information visit fruitlandsthetrustees.org

22, Saturday - HairFest at Indian Ranch, 12:30 p.m., 200 Gore Rd., Webster, MA - Travel back to the 80’s with the Indian Ranch HairFest – a fun-filled day featuring the music you grew up with from the greatest tributes to Hair Bands including Everybody Wants Some (performing the music of Van Halen), The Priest (performing the music of Judas Priest),  Aquanett (playing the best of 80’s hair band music), Bon Jersey (performing the music of Bon Jovi), and festival headliner Super Troup (also playing the best of 80’s hair band music. This will be THE festival you will always remember! National Anthem: A special surprise guest!Event is rain or shine. No refunds or exchanges. General Admission is first come first serve and may result in standing room only. For handicap accessible seating and accommodations, please call the Indian Ranch box office at 508-943-3871. For tickets and more information visit indianranch.com

23, Sunday - Jewell Hill Hike hosted by Ashburnham Walks, 1:00-3:00, – Join us for a hike up Jewell Hill, a small mountain in eastern Ashburnham, owned by the Crocker family. The ½ mile trail to the summit is on a well-maintained wooded path with a moderate elevation gain. The summit affords scenic views to the east, including the Boston skyline on a clear day. Easy hike with a beautiful view. Led by Janet Morrison, the former ED of the North County Land Trust. Parking is available at the Crocker Farm at 511 Crocker Rd. in Ashby.

22, Saturday – The 21^stAnnual Pickle Festival in downtown Winchester NH, 10:00-4:00 - This is a free events with free pickles, music, crafts, and food. For more information visit winchesterpicklefestival.org.

23, Sunday – Frederick Historic Piano Collection presents, Makim Shtrykov on clarinet and Misusu Tanaka on Piano, 4:00 p.m. at the Ashburnham Community Church, 84 Main St., Ashburnham – Maksim Shtrykov, clarinet, and Misuzu Tanaka, piano, join us again, this time with a program of Russian music including pieces by Prokofiev, Gretchaninov, and Weinberg.

Admission: $15.00/adult (Children and students are free). For more information visit frederickcollection.org

23, Sunday – 2^ndAnnual CountryFest at Indian Ranch, 12:00 p.m., 200 Gore Rd., Webster MA - Event is rain or shine. No refunds or exchanges. General Admission is first come first serve and may result in standing room only. For handicap accessible seating and accommodations, please call the Indian Ranch box office at 508-943-3871. For tickets and more information visit indianranch.com

23, Sunday – Opening Reception for Interior Effects at Fitchburg Art Museum, 2:00-4:00, 185 Elm St., Fitchburg MA – Join us for the opening celebration of our fall exhibition, Interior Effects:  Furniture in Contemporary Art. The show pays tribute to the industrial heritage of North Central MA through an exploration of furniture and its design in psychologically charged metaphors. The exhibition includes artwork by 10 New England artists: Judy Kensley McKie, Yuri Kobayashi, Leah K. Woods, Tracie Pouliot, Liz Shepherd, Celeste Roberge, Katarina Burin, Sarah Malakoff, Sandra Erbacher, and Samantha Fields. Guests will enjoy light refreshments and a cash bar. The event is free with admission and free for all FAM members. For more information visit fitchburgartmuseum.org.

September 7, 8, 9, 2018

“What’s Happening”

September 7, 8, 9, 2018

7, 8, 9, Friday, Saturday and Sunday – New Players Theatre Guild presents, “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” by Charles Dickens – John Jasper, a brooding, moody choirmaster at a finishing school in Victorian England, maintains a secret life that includes frequenting an opium den. His tortured mind becomes obsessed with a young student, Rosa Bud, who is engaged to his nephew, Edwin Drood. Consumed by jealousy, John terrifies his nephew’s fiancé and plots the murder of Edwin. Show times are 7:30 on Friday and Saturday, and 2:00 on Sunday. Tickets are $20 for adults and $18 for students. Performances are located at 15 Rollstone St., Fitchburg - For more information visit nptg.org.

7, 8, 9, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – The Sterling Fair, Sterling Airport, 121 Greenland Rd., Sterling, MA – Friday, 5-11p.m, Sat. 9 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun.  9 a.m.-5 p.m. –The Sterling Fair is a family oriented, community agriculture fair with the emphasis on agriculture and education. Admission and parking at the Sterling Fair is FREE. However, the fair relies on the sale of buttons, T-shirts, and ads to keep it free. Support your fair with a purchase or donation!  We like to keep admission and parking free so you can enjoy spending the day with your family having fun at the fair. The fair is run completely by volunteers, and with an annual attendance of around 40,000 people, it takes a lot of work to keep the fair going.  These volunteers include 20 members of the Sterling Fair committee and over 50 additional people who help setup, run, and clean up after the fair. For more information visit sterlingfair.org.

8, Saturday – Rootsfest 2018:  Celebrating Sweet 16! – 10:00-3:00, 100 Crawford St., Leominster MA – Rootsfest is a free community event! Roots will be turning sweet 16 this year and we are planning the biggest event yet! We will have over 60 natural and organic products' vendors! Samples! Free BBQ at noon! Live, local music! Kids Activities, raffles, photo booth, and so much more! 

8, Saturday – Farm Fresh Fest at Wachusett Mountain, 10:00-5:00, 499 Mountain Rd., Princeton MA – This festival highlights locally sourced products from farms and businesses in the Central Mass area and beyond. There will be cooking demos, educational talks and more in our Educational Tent along with Jams and Jellies, Pickles, and Relish contests and a special “Ugly Vegetable” Contest. For tickets and more information visit wachusett.com.

8, 9, Saturday and Sunday – The First Annual Sunflower Festival at Lanni Orchards, 294 Chase Rd., Lunenburg MA – 10:00-6:00, Admission includes Play Land for the day, a sunflower to keep, PYO apples, grapes, blackberries, (Some peaches, nectarines, plums, blueberries, raspberries are left). Caramel apples, cider donuts, cotton candy, food, and The Wizard of OZ Corn Maize will also be available.  For more information visit lanniorchards.com.

8, Saturday – Worcester Wine Festival at Union Station, 11:30-5:00 - Worcester’s Wine Festival’s Grand Tasting at Union Station is the grand event for the entire week’s wine celebration. In addition to the 400+ hand-curated wines, the Grand Tasting will include tastings from selected restaurants, and a small number of handpicked vendors specializing in arts, retail, and more. For tickets and more information visit worcesterwinefestival.com.

Labor Day Weekend, 2018

“What’s Happening”

August 31, September 1, 2, 3, 2018

31, 1, 2, - Friday, Saturday, Sunday – Peterborough Player’s presents, Sexy Laundry, a comedy by Michele Riml - With a library copy of "SEX FOR DUMMIES" in hand, Alice attempts to re-kindle her decades long marriage to Henry. Over the course of a weekend in a luxury hotel, the couple stumbles over the hilarious and humbling truths of their "long-running" marriage. This adult comedy is for any adult who has ever been married to another adult for a significant amount of time. A hit in Canada, we are thrilled to present the New Hampshire premiere of this comedy! Continues until September 9. Friday, 7:30; Saturday, 8:00; Sunday, 4:00. For tickets and more information visit peterboroughplayers.org

1, 2, 3, Saturday, Sunday and Monday – 7^thAnnual Appleseed Country Fair at Red Apple Farm, 455 Highland Ave., Phillipston MA, 10:00-6:00 on Sat., 10:00-5:00 on Sun., and 10:00-4:00 on Monday.

31, 1, 2, 3, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday - Wachusett Mountain’s Labor Day Sale, Music, and Craft Beer Party– A Full weekend of fantastic sales on ski and snowboard equipment and winter apparel at our annual MNTside Labor Day Sale. Blowout pricing on leftover items! Clearance Sale runs Friday to Monday and our special Mountain Music and Craft Beer Party runs Saturday-Monday. For more information visit wachusett.com

31, 1, 2, 3, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday – Spencer Fair, 48 Smithville Rd., Spencer MA – 8:00-10:00 – The Spencer Fair is an old time, traditional country fair including ox and horse pulls, cattle, rabbit and poultry shows, hall exhibits, midway and outdoor entertainment, and should be a great time for all who attend. For more information visit spencerfair.org.

1, Saturday – Creative Connections opening reception - Angela Kelly: Dollhouse, 12:00-2:00, 56 Main St., Ashburnham – About the Artist:  Angela Kelley is an interdisciplinary artists with strong roots in visual mediums, specifically painting. Her concepts are often derived from nonsensical thoughts and dreams in which some form of purgatory or transportive state is suggested. She draws from her childhood experiences, creating a narrative, which finds value in the awkwardness of adolescence. To learn more about the artist visit ccgiftgallery.com

1, 2, 3 – Saturday, Sunday, and Monday – Labor Day Tomato Festival at Lanni Orchards, 294 Chase Rd., Lunenburg MA – 10:00-6:00, rain or shine, PYO tomatoes! Hayrides are free for Labor Day weekend! Other activities include a bouncy house, games, hot dogs, popcorn, nachos and cider donuts, and a whole lot more! For more information visit lanniorchard.com

1, 2, 3, Saturday, Sunday and Monday – Northeast Food Festival and Balloon Rally Expo– 50 Emerson Rd., Milford NH - 5:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m., Attendees will experience a weekend full of Hot Air Balloons, tethered rides, jump in the basket, run through balloons and nighttime balloons glowing in the dark! 30+ of New England Top Food Trucks will offer gourmet varieties from tacos and BBQ to poutine and cupcakes. Beer, wine, cider, and cocktails will also be available. Entertainment includes the regions top performing musical artists, craft artists and carnival rides, and games! For tickets and more information visit northeastballoonfestival.com

1, 2, Saturday and Sunday – Art in the Park, Ashuelot River Park, West St., Keene NH – 10:00-4:00 – Annual Labor Day event with over 80 artists. Our wide variety of artists will have an arrangement of original artwork, paintings, photographs, prints, sculptures, cards, mugs, tiles, calendars, etc. For more information visit monadnockareaartists.org

August 24, 25, 26, 2018

“What’s Happening”

August 24, 25, 26, 2018

24, Friday – Friday at the Farm with Autumn Sunset Band at Hollis Hills Farm, 340 Marshall Rd., Fitchburg MA, 5:00-10:00 p.m. – Autumn Sunset will be harmonizing your favorite oldies Friday from 7-10. Take a walk down memory lane with us. Bar and Food available starting at 5:00 p.m. For more information visit hollishillsfarm.com

24, Friday – Michelle Malone performs at the Bull Run in Shirley, 215 Great Rd., Shirley, MA, 8:00-10:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit bullrunrestaurant.com

24, 25, 26, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – Peterborough Players presents The Man of Destiny by George Bernard Shaw - Galvanized by victory over the Austrians, the young Napoleon believes he is invincible. At an Italian inn he meets his match, a mysterious young woman, determined to interrupt his rise to power. The resulting sparkling battle of wits, political trickery and sexual intrigue make up Shaw's 90-minute comedy. For show times and tickets visit peterboroughplayers.org

25, Saturday – Ashburnham Farmer’s Market, Meeting House Hill, 9:00-12:00, August is the prime vegetable harvest time and who doesn't love beautiful heirloom tomatoes? Koljian Farm will be back at this month's market with their incredible heirloom produce - it's beautiful and packed with nutrients. Other vendors include Surfing Goat Soaps, The Tragic Whale, Enar’s Favorite Cookies, West Hill Bakery, Rock Pile Farm, Wind Ridge Farm and others. 

25, Saturday – Shinrin-Yoku “Forest Breathing” Guided Sanctuary Walks at Wachusett Meadow,113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton MA, 10:30-11:30 a.m. – Learn to connect with the natural world in a healing, calming, grounding, and replenishing way through a series of guided walks with Dr. Roxanne Daleo, a renowned health educator specializing in relaxation and stress reduction. Fee $3.50/adult members, $4.50/adult non-members. For more information visit massaudubon.org

25, Saturday – Fitzwilliam Garden Club Plant and Bake Sale, Fitzwilliam Common, 8:30-11:00, Lots of perennials, mums, patio pots, and delicious baked goods. Master Gardener on hand to help. 

25, Saturday – Mason NH 250^thAnniversary Celebration – 10:00-4:00 p.m. – This year, the town of Mason NH will be celebrating its 250^thanniversary at the Mason Old Home Days Festival. Located in and around the center of Mason, the festival includes vendors, crafters, food, games, live entertainment, horse rides, and much more! Free admission. 

25, Saturday – Clustertruck Food Truck Festival at Kalon Farm, 339 Seven Bridge Rd., (Rt 117) Lancaster, MA – 12:00-6:00 p.m. – 30 Food Trucks, 20 artisans, live music, craft beer. $5.00 to enter if you purchase in advance and skip the line. Children under 12 are FREE, so you can bring the entire family! There are tons of stuff for the kids to do and see. We are so excited for our second serving this August. We sincerely appreciate your support! 

25, Saturday – Prince Night at the Mendon Twin Drive-In, 35 Milford St., Mendon MA– 5:00-10:30 p.m. We honor Prince by playing the classic movie ‘Purple Rain’ on the big screen. LoVeSeXy, Boston’s best cover band, will play live music for 2 hours. Then we will play a video tribute and highlight Prince’s life. Then Purple Rain will be the main feature. Beer, wine, snacks, pizza, fried dough, ice cream and other goodies will be sold. Free admission to all red corvettes. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. Movie start at dusk, around 8:15 p.m. Tickets are $15.00 per person in advance, $20.00 at the box office. A Mega Car, for up to 6 people, is $40.00 in advance and $50.00 at the event. Tickets are limited.

25 and 26, Saturday and Sunday – Grape Festival at Lanni Orchards, 294 Chase Rd., Lunenburg, MA, 10:00-6:00 p.m. – PYO opens at 8:00 a.m. – Other events include our monthly Taste of Local which will include free samples of everything local including different kinds of grapes! Plus a great selection of locally made products like cheese, meat, pies and so much more! We’ll also have the soft opening of the Wizard of Oz Corn Maze. For more information visit lanniorchard.com

25, 26 Saturday and Sunday – Make Your Own Dragonfly at Terrapin Glassblowing Studio, 79 Hadley Rd., Jaffrey, NH, 10:15 a.m. on Saturday and 11:30 a.m. on Sunday – For tickets and more information visit terrapinglass.com

26, Sunday – Frederick Historic Piano Collection presents, Artem Belogurov on piano and Octavie Dostaler-Lalonde on Cello, 4:00 p.m. at the Ashburnham Community Church, 84 Main St., Ashburnham - $15.00/adults, Free for students and children. For more information visit frederickcollection.org

26, Sunday – Fall Used Bike and Accessory Sale at Tomten Biketown, 1029 Central St., Leominster, 10:00-5:00 p.m. We are excited to announce that the 3rd Annual Fall Edition of our Used Bike and Accessory Consignment Sale will take place this August here at the shop! If you are interested in selling your used bike or accessories, please stop by or contact us by calling 978-840-3221 or emailing info@tomtenbiketown.com. We will begin accepting bikes and accessories for consignment during regular business hours beginning Monday, August 13th and until Saturday, August 25th at 5pm. Consignment Terms: As a consignor you will receive either 100% store credit or 70% cash of the sale proceeds on all items sold. We reserve the right to refuse any used bicycles that are considered unfit for sale. Please note, we are unable to determine a bicycle's condition or value over the phone. On the Day of the Sale: All sales are final. First come, first served. There will be no previews before the day of the sale!

August 17, 18, 19, 2018

11th Annual Hudson-Concord Elks Balloon and Blues Festival, 2018

“What’s Happening”

August 17, 18, 19, 2018

17, Friday – Weekends at the Farm at Hollis Hills Farm – This Friday, music by Kevin Shields and Food by Vesta Pizza – 5:00-10:00 p.m. Entertainment starts at 7:00. 340 Marshall Rd., Fitchburg – For more information visit hollishillsfarm.com

17, Friday – The Bull Run presents Teresa James & The Rhythm Tramps– Pianist and vocalist Teresa James is back with her band, The Rhythm Tramps for her tenth album. “Here is Babylon”. Teresa has been compared to Bonnie Raitt, but her sound is very much her own. For tickets visit bullrunrestaurant.com

17, 18, 19 - Friday, Saturday, Sunday – Peterborough Players present The Man of Destiny by George Bernard Shaw - Galvanized by victory over the Austrians, the young Napoleon believes he is invincible. At an Italian inn he meets his match, a mysterious young woman, determined to interrupt his rise to power. The resulting sparkling battle of wits, political trickery and sexual intrigue make up Shaw's 90-minute comedy. For times and tickets visits peterboroughplayers.org

17, 18, 19, Friday, Saturday, Sunday  – Theatre at the Mount presents “We Will Rock You”, 44 Green St., Gardner MA - We will Rock You takes place in a future age on a planet once called Earth that is now controlled by a mighty corporation…rock music is unheard and all musical instruments are banned. The hope of breaking free rests with an unlikely resistance – an alliance of rebel Bohemians. The show will feature many of Queen’s chart-topping hits including “We Will Rock You, “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “Radio Gaga”, “Another one Bites the Dust”, “We are the Champions” and more. It’s the world champion of musicals and the show that rocks harder than any other, so don’t miss the party! For tickets visit mwcc.edu 

18, 19, Saturday and Sunday – Templeton Arts and Crafts Festival– 10:00-5:00. Join us for one of New England’s longest running juried craft fairs. Crafters cover the common, food tent and raffles help to raise money to fund scholarships for local students to further their education. Admission is Free. Parking is available behind Templeton Center School. For more information visit templetonartsandcraftsfair.com

18, Saturday, Jaffrey Festival of Fireworks 2018! Silver Ranch (Jaffrey Airport) Jaffrey, NH 3:00-10:00 p.m., Get your tickets for this family friendly event! Sowa entertainment will be providing music with games for children, line dancing, and more! Skydivers! Food trucks! Join us for a great time! For tickets and other information visit jaffreyfireworks.com.

18, 19, Saturday and Sunday – 11^thAnnual Hudson-Concord Elks Balloon and Blues Festival 2018, 5:30 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. Saturday and 5:30-7:30 a.m., Sunday - This year marks the Eleventh Anniversary of the Hudson Balloon Festival and we want you to come and celebrate with us! Three bands, food trucks, vendors and of course the balloons will make this year a can't- miss event. Tickets are only $5 for the mornings and only $10 for Saturday afternoon through the evening. We rely on our local community for support to put on this event.  We strongly encourage you to support the businesses that support us and help to grow the Hudson, Massachusetts community.99 Park St., Hudson MA – For more information visit hudsonelksballoonfestival.com

19, Sunday – Frederick Historic Piano Collection presents Gary Capozzielo on violin, Cihan Yucel on piano, and Ignacy Gaydamovich on cello to play Debussy's Piano Trio in G, and Schubert's Piano Trio in Eb. 4:00 p.m. They also plan to set up a small exhibit of paintings by Alexey Naumovich Neyman. Performance will take place at the Historical Piano Study Center, 30 Main St. Ashburnham. Seating is limited. For more information about the musicians please visit frederickcollection.org or call 988-827-6262.

19, Sunday – Ashburnham FREE Summer Concert Series at Winchester Park, 32 Main St (Behind Town Hall)  – 5:00-7:00 p.m., Come listen to some great music while the children play in the playground. 

19, Sunday – The Bull Run presents, Ann Hampton Callaway:  Jazz Goes to the Movies– The show explores the fascinating ways jazz and film have come together to tell stories. The playlist includes, “Taking a Chance on Love”; “Let’s Face the Music and Dance”; “This Time the Dream’s on Me”; “As Time Goes By”; and many others. For tickets and more information visit bullrunrestaurant.com.  

August 10, 11, 12, 2018

'Reflections' by Glenn Hathaway

“What’s Happening”

August 10, 11, 12, 2018

10, 11, Friday and Saturday – Theatre at the Mount presents “We Will Rock You” 8:00 p.m., 44 Green St., Gardner MA - We will Rock You takes place in a future age on a planet once called Earth that is now controlled by a mighty corporation…rock music is unheard and all musical instruments are banned. The hope of breaking free rests with an unlikely resistance – an alliance of rebel Bohemians. The show will feature many of Queen’s chart-topping hits including “We Will Rock You, “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “Radio Gaga”, “Another one Bites the Dust”, “We are the Champions” and more. It’s the world champion of musicals and the show that rocks harder than any other, so don’t miss the party! For tickets visit mwcc.edu – Repeats August 17, 18, and 19.

10, Friday – Sundance Film Festival, Short Film Tour, 2018 by Cinema-Worcester– 7:00-9:00 p.m., The Park View Room, 235 Park Ave., Worcester – Fueled by artistic expression and limited only by their runtime, short films transcend traditional storytelling. They are a significant and popular way artists can connect with audiences. From documentary to animation, narrative to experimental, the abbreviated form is no longer just for the novice. Shorts have and will continue to be an important part of cinema, storytelling, and culture. The Sundance Film Festival has always been proud to treat sort films with the highest regard and to give a home to new (and old) projects for audiences to discover and celebrate. For tickets visit cinema-worcester.com

10, 11, 12 – Friday, Saturday, Sunday – The 136^thBolton Fair, Bolton Fairgrounds, 318 Seven Bridge Rd., Rt. 117, Lancaster – We invite you to join us for our annual celebration of our heritage, culture, and community, as we provide good wholesome family fun, great entertainment, friendly competition and educational experiences for the whole family! The Bolton Fair is where friends, agriculture, education and creativity unite! For hours, pricing, and discounted tickets visit boltonfair.org

10, 11 – Saturday and Sunday, Peach and Blueberry Festival at Lanni Orchards, 10:00-6:00 p.m. (PYO begins at 8:00 a.m.), 294 Chase Rd., Lunenburg - Come join us here at Lanni Orchards for our Peach & Blueberry Festival on August 10 and 11. Come and take a hayride of the farm, pick blueberries and peaches, make a craft, let children play in play land, bring your lunch or have lunch here. We will have hot dogs, nachos, cotton candy, and best part FREE Samples of everything local! You don't want to miss out on trying before you buy! Come and visit Lanni Orchards Rt. 13 Lunenburg Mass, lanniorchard.com

10, Friday – Hal MacIntyre Orchestra presents “A Sinatra Tribute” 7:00-9:30 p.m., Nara Park Amphitheatre, 25 Ledge Rock Way, Acton - Join us for one of our special ticketed engagements at NARA Park. This is an outdoor venue with lawn seating. Bring your own chairs/blankets. No large coolers, bags, or alcohol are allowed into the venue. Food vendors will be onsite with hot food, refreshments, beer, wine and soft drinks. All bags are subject to search. Visit acton-ma.gov/events for tickets and more information.

10, 11 – Saturday and Sunday – Hollis Hills Farm presentsBrett Casavant on Friday and Brian Chaffee on Saturday, 340 Marshall Rd., Fitchburg – Friday, food and drinks 5:00-9:30, music 7:00-10:00; Saturday, food and drinks 3:00-8:00, music 5:00-8:00. For more information visit hollishillsfarm.com 

11, Saturday – Photographer Glenn Hathaway – “Reflections” exhibit at Creative Connections,12:00-2:00, 56 Main St., Ashburnham – Artist Statement:  “I grew up on the east coast and was aware of the similarities between New Bedford and San Francisco in terms of how life in each locale was ‘shaped by the sea’. My move to central Massachusetts thirty years ago introduced me to the hills of Worcester County, which stretch to the New Hampshire border and beyond. From central New England my travels have taken me west to Yosemite, north to Muir woods and south to Half Moon Bay.”

Glenn’s recent work is a departure from a more naturalistic approach. “Terroir” becomes less evident in these distillations of form and color. For more information visit ccgiftgallery.com

11, Sunday – Frederick Historic Piano Collection present Eric Clark, 4:00 p.m. 30 Main St., Ashburnham, - Pianist Eric Clark will perform this Saturday afternoon at the Historical Piano Study Center, a program that will primarily be made up of music by Chopin, played on the 1840 Érard. But there is more behind all that Chopin... and a reason for choosing that particular Érard. Admission: $15.00 per adult. Children and students are welcome without charge. For more information visit frederickcollection.org

11, 12 – Saturday and Sunday, Tower Hill Botanic Gardenprograms include: Beecology Basics,10:00-12:00; Heirloom Tomatoes: Botanical Drawing in Color, 10:00-4:00; Learn and Grow Garden Experience, 1:00-3:00; Five Season with Piet Oudolf: Documentary Film Screening, 2:00-3:30; and Weekend Garden Tours, 2:00-3:00. For more information visit towerhillbg.org

11, Saturday - The Bull Run presents – The Sean Chambers Band, 8:00 p.m. (Doors open at 6:00 p.m. for dinner and seating. Showtime is at 8:00 p.m.), 215 Great Rd., Shirley MA - Sean began his career in the Blues in 1998 when he toured as guitarist and bandleader for the legendary Hubert Sumlin until 2003. During that time, Britain’s Guitarist Magazine named Chambers as “One of the top 50 blues guitarists of the last century. For tickets and more information visit bullrunrestaurant.com

12, Sunday – The Bull Run presents Melissa Manchester, 7:30 p.m. (Doors open at 6:00 p.m. for dinner and seating. Showtime is at 8:00 p.m.) 215 Great Rd., Shirley, MA - Let’s hear it for the boys! More than 25 years after Melissa Manchester released “Tribute,” her 1989 album that honored the great female singers who influenced her, she turns the tables with “The Fellas,” a radiant encomium to the men, including Frank Sinatra, Mel Tormé, Tony Bennett and Dean Martin, and the iconic songs they made famous. For tickets and more information visit bullrunrestaurant.com

Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake

Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake from Sally's Baking Addiction

Lemon Blueberry Layer Cake

yield: SERVES 10-12

prep time: 30 MINUTES

cook time:

total time: 3 HOURS, INCLUDES COOLING

Ingredients:

Cake

• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 and 1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups (345g) sifted all-purpose flour
• 1 Tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• zest + juice of 3 medium lemons
• 1 and 1/2 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen (do not thaw)
  
• 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 
  

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 ounces (224g) full-fat brick style cream cheese, softened to room temperature⁵
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 3 and 1/2 cups (420g) confectioners' sugar
• 1 - 2 Tablespoons (15-30ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• pinch salt
• Juice from 1 lemon*

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and lightly flour three 9x2 inch cake pans with nonstick spray. Set aside.
2. Make the cake: Using a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on high until creamy - about 1 minute. Add granulated and brown sugars and beat on medium-high speed until creamed, about 2-3 minutes. Add eggs and vanilla. Beat on medium speed until everything is completely combined, about 2 full minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Set aside.
3. In a large sized bowl, toss together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Beat on low speed for 5 seconds, then add the milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Remove from the mixer and stir lightly until everything is just combined. Toss the blueberries in 1 Tablespoon of flour and fold into the batter. Batter is extremely thick. Do not overmix at any point. Overmixing will lend a tough, dense textured crumb.
4. Spoon batter evenly into 3 prepared cake pans. If only using 2 cake pans, your bake time will be longer. Bake the three layers for about 21-26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Mine took 21 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before frosting.
5. Make the frosting: Using a handheld or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until no lumps remain, about 3 full minutes. Add confectioners' sugar, 1 Tablespoon cream, vanilla extract, and salt with the mixer running on low. Increase to high speed and beat for 3 minutes. Add 1 more Tablespoon of cream to thin out, if desired. (*I added the juice from 1 lemon to the frosting and bit more confectioners' sugar.)
6. Assemble and frost: First, using a large serrated knife, trim the tops off the cake layers to create a flat surface. Place 1 layer on your cake stand. Evenly cover the top with cream cheese frosting. Top with 2nd layer, more frosting, then the third layer. Top with frosting and spread around the sides. The recipe doesn't make a ton of frosting, just enough for a light frost. Top with blueberries or lemon garnish if desired. Refrigerate for at least 45 minutes before cutting or else the cake may fall apart as you cut.
7. Make ahead tip: Prepare cakes and frosting 1 day in advance. Keep cakes at room temperature, covered tightly. Refrigerate prepared frosting in an airtight container until ready to use. Frosted or unfrosted cakes may be frozen up to 2 months, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature if desired before serving.

July 19, 20, 21, 22, 2018

Town Meeting will performs at Hollis Hills on Saturday, July 21

“What’s Happening”

July 19, 20, 21, 22, 2018

19, (Ongoing every Thursday through August 9) Summer Concert Series at Fruitlands - Gather on the lawn for our annual Summer Concert Series and listen to beautiful music performed on Fruitlands’ outdoor stage! For six weeks in June and July we welcome back The Concord Band, a group of 65 musicians from 40 area towns who have been performing since 1959. The Concord Band will treat concertgoers to a fun roster of timeless music, including pieces memorializing historic events, show tunes, holiday favorites and more. In August, the fun continues with another Fruitlands favorite, The Love Dogs on August 2nd and a final concert on August 9^th with Bluegrass tunes from Damn Tall Buildings. 

Concerts begin at 7:15PM; Admission is $15/car for Museum Members, $20/car for Nonmembers - Walk-ins, bicycles, and motorcycles: $5 Member. $10 Nonmember.

Bring your blanket, lawn chairs and picnic basket, or purchase food from one of our food vendors. For more information visit thetrustees.org.

20, Friday’s at the Farm at Hollis Hills Farm, 5:00-10:00 p.m., 340 Marshall Road transforms to your new favorite gathering place on Friday evenings! We offer a full bar and casual barbecue food, with live music from local artists starting at 7pm. A kid friendly vibe both in the barn and outside - play some corn hole or relax by the bonfire while the kids romp in the yard. hollishillsfarm.com

21, Saturday – Town Meeting Performs at Hollis Hills Farm, 5:00-10:00 p.m., New England Music Awards Roots Act of the year, Town Meeting, is a local roots/folk rock group that brings a high energy show wherever they perform. We are thrilled to host them on our outdoor stage from 7-10. Family friendly with a $5 adult cover charge, $3 kid cover and free admission for kids 3 and under. Food and drinks available at 3 pm! hollishillsfarm.com

21, Saturday – Quilt Show and Demonstration at The Oliver House, 455 Plymouth St., Middleborough MA – 10:00-2:00 - The Oak Point Country Piecemakers Quilt Guild will display their beautiful quilts. Members will speak about and demonstrate the intricate skill of quilt making. For more information visit discovermiddlborough.com.

20, 21, 22, Friday – Sunday, Red Apple Farm Collaborates with Moon Hill Brewing to open Summer Brew Barn, - Worcester County gets a great country craft beer destination with The Brew Barn at Red Apple Farm, 455 Highland Ave., Phillipston. Hours: Fridays 3:00-8:00; Saturdays 12:00-8:00; Sundays 12:00-7:00. Craft beer, cider, BBQ, Live Music, Family Friendly, Kids Games, Lawn Games for Adults, and lots more! Continues weekends through August 12. For more information visit redapplefarm.com.

20, 21, 22 – Friday, Saturday and Sunday – Peterborough Players present, An Inspector Calls- J.B. Priestley’s “whodunit” ran for 8 years in London’s West End and the classic thriller’s last Broadway revival won 4 Tony Awards. 

An unexpected knock on the door propels the prosperous Birling family through surprising twists and startling revelations in this award-winning mystery. For tickets and times visit peterboroughplayers.org.

20, 21, 22, Concerts and Events at The Bull Run– Friday- Headliner Comedy Series with Kyron Hobdy and Nick LaVallee; Also on Friday in the Sawtelle Room, The David Bromberg Quintet performs; Saturday – Justin McKinney Comedy. Sunday - The Artimus Pyle Band - For tickets and more information visit bullrunrestaurant.com

20, 21, 22, Friday, Saturday, Sunday – Southern Vermont Dance Festival, Brattleboro VT- The Southern Vermont Dance Festival returns in July 2018 for its 6th anniversary, with an exciting round of dance classes, lectures and performances hosted in the one and only Brattleboro, VT. As last year, festival attendees will be invited to attend dance performances each evening as well as a choice of many different classes each day. There will be many amazing opportunities offered to the professional dancer, dance student, and dance enthusiasts. For more information visit southernvermontdancefestival.com

21, Saturday – Craft Beer and Roots Music Festival at Old Sturbridge Village, 12:00-8:00 p.m., Old Sturbridge Village's craft beer festival is BACK- complete with brews, bands, and bites! Nearly two-dozen craft breweries from across New England will provide visitors an opportunity to sample and purchase some of the region's top beers and ales. At four indoor and outdoor stages, nine musical artists and bands will bring the sounds of Americana, bluegrass, country, folk and roots music to Old Sturbridge Village. For those who are 21 and over, your admission to the Village includes 6 complimentary 2-oz samples of beer. We will check IDs for everyone who wants to participate in the beer tasting--be sure to have a valid photo ID with you. Our grill team will serve delicious BBQ pork, brats, burgers and more, additional purchase required. Check our website for a list of participating breweries and musical artists! osv.org

21, Saturday – 2^ndAnnual Music Concert at the Templeton Fish and Game Club, 10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m., Club Rd., Templeton, MA - For more information visit templetonfishandgame.org.

21, Saturday – Yankee Barn Sale in Dublin NH– 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Yankee Field, 1235 Main St., Dublin NH – A feeling of old-time community prevails as you browse booths offering attic treasures of all varieties in a beautiful outdoor setting. Stop in for great bargains, good food, and lots of fun! Rain date (if needed) is July 22. $1.00 for parking/admission is free.

21, Saturday – The Hancock NH Woman’s Club Historic Homes and Summer Gardens Tour, Hancock NH, 10:00-4:00 p.m. Five distinctive homes and six gardens will be open. Noted gardener, landscape designer, and author, Margaret Hensel will give 2 short talks during the day on “Creating the Cottage Style”. The Hancock Historical Society and the Hancock Meetinghouse that have undergone major restoration projects during the last several years will be open to attendees and some people involved in the projects will be on site to talk with attendees. The event will also include a craft boutique, sale, and raffle. Musical entertainment and a short performance by Project Shakespeare will entertain picnickers on the Green from 11:30-1:30. Finally, to cap off the day, the Historic Hancock Inn will host a Wine and Nibbles in the afternoon from 2:00-4:00 p.m. The price of the tour is $25; Wine and Nibbles is $20. All proceeds will benefit the Woman’s Club Community Needs and Woman’s Scholarship Fund. For more information and to purchase tickets visit hancockwomansclub.org.

22, Sunday – Ashburnham FREE Summer Concert Series – 5:00-7:00 p.m., Come listen to some great music while the children play in the playground at Winchester Park (behind Town Hall), 32 Main St., Ashburnham. 

22, Sunday – Lynda Schlosberg Artist Talk at Fitchburg Art Museum, 1:30-2:30, 185 Elm St., Fitchburg MA - Lynda Schlosberg is a Boston-based artist who creates intricate and complex paintings that are inspired by quantum theories and philosophies. In the construction of her work she utilizes a process of fragmentation and the language of abstract painting. Schlosberg aims to depict an imaginal realm where all natural and unnatural forces collapse into a vibrating energy that can materialize into one of an infinite number of potential realties.

Schlosberg received her MFA from the Art Institute of Boston at Lesley University, and her BFA from Ohio University College of Art. Lynda Schlosberg was born in Newton, MA and paints in her Waltham, MA studio. For more information visit fitchburgartmuseum.org

April 26-29, 2018

Art in Bloom at Fitchburg Art Museum

“What’s Happening”

April 26, 27, 28, 29, 2018

26-29, Thurs.-Sun. – 20^thAnniversary of Art in Bloom at Fitchburg Art Museum - Enjoy 40 flower arrangements crafted by local florists, garden clubs, and individuals interpreting the art in our galleries and help us honor one of the event's founders, Julia Casey. Thursday from 1:00-5:00 p.m.; Friday-Sunday 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. with a champagne reception on Friday from 6:00-8:00 p.m. For tickets and more information visit fitchburgartmuseum.org.

26-28. Thursday-Saturday, Events at the Bull Run Restaurant, Shirley, MA– Thursday, Quinn Sullivan performs. Friday, Beatlemania Now! and Headliner Comedy Series. Saturday, The Ike Willis Project with special guest Micki Free. For tickets and more information visit bullrunrestaurant.com.

27, Friday – Fridays at the Farm with Sean Daley and the Hooligans, Hollis Hills Farm340 Marxhall St., Fitchburg, 5:00-10:00 p.m. – Sean Daley and the Hooligans will be playing your favorite classic rock songs at the farm. Every Friday will feature live, local musical entertainment accompanied by draught beer, wine, light food options, and fun! The bar will be opening at 5:00, with musicians performing form 7:00-10:00. Have a beer, play some games, meet fun people. Fridays are for the farm! Hollishillsfarm.com

28, Saturday – Meet the flock at the Sheep and Wool Festival at Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary– 1:00-4:00 p.m. Sheep grazing led to the development of many meadows on the sanctuary and our current team of munchers help us maintain open habitat for wildlife! Come and meet Finch, Monarch, Taggley and the rest of the flock. Learn how sheep are sheared and how those fleeces eventually become warm hats and mittens. Local vendors and crafters, kid’s activities, and more will make this a fun weekend event/day for everyone.

Admission: $7 Adult Members, $10 Adult Nonmembers, $4 Child Members, $5 Child Nonmembers, 113 Goodnow Road, Princeton, MA (978) 464-2712, (Rain date: Sunday, April 29) For more information visit massaudobon.org. 

27, 28, 29, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – Stratton Players present The Foreigner at McKay Campus, 67 Rindge Rd., Entrance B, Fitchburg –The scene is a fishing lodge in rural Georgia often visited by “Froggy” LeSeuer, a British demolition expert who occasionally runs training sessions at a nearby army base. This time Froggy” has brought along a friend, a pathologically shy young man named Charlie who is overcome with fear at the thought of making conversation with strangers. So “Froggy, before departing, tells all assembled that Charlie is from an exotic foreign country and speaks no English. Once alone the fun really begins, as Charlie overhears more than he should! Friday and Saturday 8:00 p.m., Sunday, 2:00 p.m. For tickets and more information visit strattonplayers.com

28, Saturday – Cendrillon screened LIVE from the Metropolitan Opera, Hosted by Peterborough Players, 1:00-4:00 p.m., - For the first time ever, Massenet’s sumptuous take on the Cinderella story comes to the Met, with DiDonato starring in the title role. She is paired with mezzo-soprano Alice Coote in the trouser role of Prince Charming, Kathleen Kim as the Fairy Godmother, and Stephanie Blythe as the imperious Madade de la Haltiere. Bertrand de Bill conducts Laurent Pelly’s imaginative storybook production. Tickets are $25.00. Run time is 3 hours including 1 intermission. For tickets and more information visit peterboroughplayers.org.

29, North County Land Trust: Full Moon Hiking Series, 9:00 p.m., Challenge yourself to try something new and different! North County Land Trust’s Board of Directors challenged itself to raise $25,000 to continue the local conservation projects in celebration of our 25th anniversary. As a part of that challenge we are offering a Full Moon Hiking Series from April to Sept featuring a different NCLT property each time! To help us meet our goal, we’re asking each hiker for a $10 donation to benefit and continue our work. Bring your friends, and help NCLT continue their good work. This month's hike is on Sunday April 29th at Crocker Conservation Area. Park at the end of Flat Rock Road in Fitchburg and meet Mary, Nancy, and Betty at 9:00 pm under the Full Moon! Contact us with questions at 978-466-3900 or info@northcountylandtrust.org.