North of Boston

Fashioning for Freedom: Layers of Liberty
2025-02-21 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Old Town Hall, 32 Derby Square, SALEM, MA, 01970, United States
History Alive presents Fashioning for Freedom: Layers of Liberty–a fashion show bringing to life famous Black historical figures in period-accurate dress. Attendees will learn about their lives and legacies and see some fabulous clothes!

Shannon Fiedler: The Pregnancy Brain Tour
2025-02-21 18:30 - 20:30 | Off Cabot Comedy & Events, 9 Wallis Street, Beverly, MA, 01915, United States
Shannon Fiedler is a NYC based comedian, writer and content creator, with over 450k followers across social media. Last year, she was named a comic to watch at the New York Comedy Festival, and her debut hour long special, Thirty, Flirty and Crying, released on YouTube this fall 2025.

Leslie’s Retreat: Salem on the Brink of Revolution Exhibit Opening Reception & Lecture
2025-02-21 17:00 - 19:30 | Salem Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
On the 250th Anniversary of Leslie’s Retreat, this National Park Service exhibit will explore why Crown soldiers under Lt. Col. Alexander Leslie came to Salem on February 26, 1775, who were the major players in the event, and how this event has been remembered and celebrated in Salem in the last 250 years.

This free exhibit will be on display starting on February 21st at the Salem Armory Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem.

The evening starts with a FREE opening reception followed by a lecture presented by Dr. Emily Murphy.

CLICK HERE to Register for the Reception

Rocky Neck Now 2025: A Celebration of Creativity
2025-02-21 12:00 - 17:00 | The Cultural Center at Rocky Neck, 6 Wonson Street, Gloucester, M, 01930, United States
Location: The Cultural Center at Rocky Neck, 6 Wonson Street, Gloucester, MA
Exhibition Dates: February 21 – April 6
Opening Reception: Sunday, February 23, 4pm–6pm
Gallery Hours: Friday–Sunday, Noon – 5pm
Rocky Neck Art Colony (RNAC) is thrilled to kick off the 2025 exhibition season with Rocky Neck Now, the much-anticipated annual members show. This dynamic exhibition brings together an exciting and diverse collection of recent works from 92 RNAC artists, offering a stunning reflection of talent, vision, and artistic passion. With pieces spanning painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and more, visitors will experience a rich and varied exploration of contemporary creativity—from bold abstracts to evocative realism.
Celebrate with Us!
The public is invited to immerse themselves in art and community at RNAC’s lively Opening Reception on Sunday, February 23, from 4pm to 6pm. Meet the artists, engage in conversation, and enjoy refreshments, drinks, and a welcoming creative atmosphere.

Newburyport Art presents our two February Exhibitions: Elements, and Featured Artist: Jennifer Day
2025-02-21 11:00 - 17:00, 2025-02-20 11:00 - 17:00, 2025-02-19 11:00 - 17:00 | Newburyport Art Association, 65 Water St, Newburyport, MA, 01950, United States
Newburyport Art (NAA) is thrilled to announce two new exhibitions opening on February 1st! On view in the Sargent and Hartson Galleries is Elements, an exhibition that responds to elements of nature or “elemental” feelings/experiences in an artist’s life. Running alongside Elements is Featured Artist Jennifer Day, on view in the Hills Gallery. Additionally, the Winter Gift Shop will open on Feb 1. A joint reception for Elements and Jennifer Day will be held on Saturday, February 8th, from 4:00-6:00 PM.
Elements features 130 artworks by 99 artists from the Newburyport area and beyond. Artists responded with depictions of the natural landscape, mixed media abstractions of fire, water and ice, sculptures reminiscent of rock and clay, and powerful commentary on the current state of our environment.
In the next door Hills Gallery, Featured Artist Jennifer Day utilizes black oil paint on a gessoed panel to reveal the drama of water without the infinite options of local color. Gray scale sensitivity and range is her goal. To achieve this, she works reductively by rubbing the surface and scraping her finger methodically through the paint to reveal the light beneath. Jennifer works between two opposites: the geometry of the picture plane versus the challenge of the nebulous, the fleeting, and the impulse of nature to escape the plane altogether.
Running concurrently alongside Elements and Featured Artist Jennifer Day is the Winter Gift Shop, on view until March 29th.
The galleries are free and open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00am–5:00pm and Sunday from 1:00pm–5:00pm. Newburyport Art is closed on Mondays. The ground-floor Hills Gallery has an accessible entrance. More information, as well as an online gallery is available at newburyportart.org.
Founded in 1948, Newburyport Art is dedicated to promoting and exhibiting members’ work and to providing art education and access to the visual arts for the entire community.

Curious Creatures
2025-02-21 10:30 - 12:00 | Wenham Museum, 132 Main St., Route 1A, Wenham, MA, 01984, United States
Learn about exotic and unusual animals in this hands-on, 40-minute interactive presentation. Children will meet 10-12 creatures and have the opportunity to touch and hold each one! Learn more about Curious Creatures by clicking here.
Save time afterwards to explore the rest of the museum galleries included in your ticket price.
Presentations at 10:30 AM and 11:20 AM. Click here for the 11:20 AM event.
Advanced Registration Required.
Tickets:
$10 Child/Adult/Senior Members
$14 Child/Adult/Senior Nonmembers
Happens on the following Dates:
Feb 21, 2025, 10:30am to 11:10am Timezone: EST
Feb 21, 2025, 11:20am to 12:00pm Timezone: EST

Portrait of a Sculptor: Walker Hancock & Michael Lafferty
2025-02-21 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-02-20 10:00 - 17:00 | Cape Ann Museum Green, 13 Poplar Street, Gloucester, MA, 01930, United States
Walker Hancock was one of the premier American sculptors of the 20th century and a highly engaged and respected member of the Cape Ann community. Michael Lafferty is a skilled photographer who spent hours photographing Hancock in his Lanesville studio, creating a series of intimate portraits of the sculptor at work. This exhibit will combine the work of Lafferty and Hancock.
The CAM Green offers free general admission, vehicle reservations are recommended .
Image: Michael Lafferty, Walker Hancock recasting Arion, 1995, digital print from 35mm film. Gift of the artist, 2022 [2022.074].

Kids Free Week at Hammond Castle Museum
2025-02-21 10:00 - 16:00, 2025-02-20 10:00 - 16:00 | Hammond Castle Museum, 80 Hesperus Avenue, Gloucester, MA, 01930, United States
Discover, Explore, and Learn at Hammond Castle Museum this February School Vacation Week!
Let your child’s imagination soar and join us as we welcome school-age children to explore the home and innovative legacy of one of America’s most prolific inventors, John Hays Hammond Jr. Dive into the world of science, technology, and creativity with self-guided tours that allow visitors to move through the Museum’s galleries at their own pace.
Little ones can embark on an animal-themed adventure designed to keep them engaged throughout the Museum. Older kids will love engaging with our digital panel featuring original games inspired by Hammond and his contemporaries’ groundbreaking innovations such as our newest addition, Frequency Hoppers, which brings history and science to life in a fun and interactive way. Let them experiment with sound in the whispering gallery, marvel at Hammond’s inventive spirit, and explore the Museum’s unique passages and rooms showcasing a blend of science, history, and art.
As a repeated Reader’s Choice Best of North Shore winner by Northshore Magazine and a Trip Advisor Traveler’s Choice award recipient for the last three consecutive years, you can trust that your visit will be an unforgettable experience. As a STEAM organization (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics), we also celebrate our role as a historic house museum and lapidarium, emphasizing works of stone and marble in ways that set us apart. This fusion of disciplines makes Hammond Castle Museum a true New England treasure.
Accessibility Note: Please be aware that at nearly a century old, the Hammond Castle Museum is not handicapped accessible due to many difficult and winding stairs on the campus and within the Museum. The following items are not permitted on the grounds or within the Museum: food and drinks other than water, large bags and backpacks, strollers and oversized baby carriers.

Hike & Seek: Magic in the Winter Forest
2025-02-21 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-02-20 09:00 - 17:00 | Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens, Chickering Road 153, North Andover, M, 01845, United States
Have you ever wondered what happens in nature during the winter months? Do you have questions like, “where do certain animals go” or “why does it snow”? Join us this February school vacation for this self-guided winter themed family-friendly bundle for use along the Stevens-to-Stevens trail in North Andover to discover the magic within the Winter forest.
Participants will be emailed an activity bundle to help them look for clues along the trail and work as a team to discover the tiny world beneath their feet and under their nose. This is a self-guided program. Pre-registration required to receive downloadable bundle of winter themed created activities, including maps, scavenger hunt, crafts, additional reading list and recipes.
The special trail will run from February 16 to March 1. Please use your bundle on any day of your choosing. Please note: the Stevens-to-Stevens trail is less traveled than our major trails and snow drifts may occur. Participants are welcome to park at 153 Chickering Road, North Andover Road to start the walk. The trail begins on the Stevens-to-Stevens Trail adjacent to the Town Common. Use map for reference.
Membership: To locate information about your Membership, including Member ID, expiration date, and more please visit: https://tickets.thetrustees.org/membership.
Tickets: To look up your tickets or re-send an email confirmation, please visit: https://tickets.thetrustees.org/orders
Member Family: $9;
Nonmember Family: $15;

5-Day Bare Bones Wood Carving Workshop
2025-02-21 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-02-20 09:00 - 17:00 | Calvo Wood Carving School, 235 East Main Street, Gloucester, MA, 01930, United States
Learning woodcarving is a lot like learning how to write in a language. You need to know the letters of the alphabet and what is a vowel and what is a consonant. You need to learn how to put together a word and understand the meaning of it. Then you need to learn how to form a sentence and a paragraph that carries a theme. These are absolute necessities that you need to know in order to write. The same is true in woodcarving, there are absolute necessities you need to know in order to carve with intent and confidence. So in all truth, I need five days of your time in order to get the complete set of fundamentals into both your hands and your head.
However, I often get asked if I have weekend courses because of time restrictions. For those of you who cannot find time for the five consecutive days, this is what I do. If you take a two or three-day course you are taking the first two or three days of my five-day workshop which is broken up into daily learning chapters. So three days brings you to chapter three, two days to chapter two. The weekend workshops will give you a basic understanding of the skill of wood carving which includes hand-carving technique, sharpening, and designing skills among other topics but the full training takes five days. You will also do the carving projects to reinforce the hand techniques that we talk about so that you gain much needed muscle memory in your hands.
Some students may be satisfied with the information learned, while others may choose to find their way back for another weekend and finish the last two or three days to get all the necessary techniques and insights. When you return, (it can be during that calendar year or the next) everyone else is at the beginning point on the start of the weekend, but you pick up where you left off to finish your training. That’s the story in a nutshell. Call me if you are looking for more info. I am happy to answer any questions.
All class days run from 9 am – 5 pm.
For more information:
Call: (978) 283-0231
Email: david@calvostudio.com
Website: https://www.davidcalvo.com/woodcarving_classes.html

Appleton Farms February Vacation Camp
2025-02-21 09:00 - 15:00, 2025-02-20 09:00 - 15:00 | Appleton Farms, 219 County Road, Ipswich, MA, 01938, United States
In the winter, many people hunker down to stay indoors, but at Appleton Farms, we make the most of the cold, quiet season. There is no better place to spend winter farm days than in exploring in the snow and learning to love the outdoors in all seasons! This program is for kids who are looking to make friends, explore the forests and fields of the farm, and learn about life in New England in winter, including learning about a type of winter farming – maple sugaring! Every day will include an outdoor adventure of hiking, snowshoeing, or other farm explorations.
This is a school vacation drop-off program running Monday-Friday 9am-3pm, February 17-21. Campers should be prepared to spend days mostly outdoors and will need appropriate clothes including hats, gloves, and boots. We will have snack and lunch on the farm (families provide their own campers’ food). A parent handbook will be provided to all parents and registration requires submission of child’s health forms, per licensing requirements. This program is licensed by the Ipswich Board of Health.
$530 Member Child/$610 Nonmember Child

The Firehouse Center for the Arts Presents Matilda Jr.! Book by Dennis Kelly Music and Lyrics by Tim Minchin
2025-02-20 19:00 - 20:30 | Firehouse Center for the Arts, 1 Market Square, Newburyport, MA, 01950, United States
Rebellion is nigh in Matilda JR., a gleefully witty ode to the the anarchy of childhood and the power of imagination! This story of a girl who dreams of a better life and the children she inspires will have audiences rooting for the “revolting children” who are out to teach the grown-ups a lesson.
Packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, Matilda JR. is a joyous girl power romp. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination.

Bonsai Beginner Workshop at Deacon Giles Distillery
2025-02-20 18:30 - 20:30 | Deacon Giles Distillery, Canal Street 75, Salem, M, 01970, United States
Beginner workshops are perfect for you to grab your friends, grab a drink and come make tiny trees! We’re bringing the awesome art of bonsai out of the hedged in gardens and into the streets! Or at least into your favorite bars/breweries/pubs. Bonsai Bar is a night of fun you don’t want to miss. Learn the fundamental skills and techniques behind the art of bonsai while enjoying a night out with friends! Our teachers will introduce core concepts and guide your experience as you pot, prune, and design your very own bonsai tree! Our Guarantee: These tiny trees are so hardy we guarantee you can keep yours alive, or we’ll replace it.
This workshop will be hosted at Deacon Giles Distillery. We were inspired to revive the art of distilling in a town once rich in both trade and spirits, but sadly devoid of distilleries for the last 100 years. We set out to roll up our sleeves and craft something exceptional using our own hands, uniquely infused with our personalities and steeped in history.
Under 21 policy: Please contact Deacon Giles Distillery for details regarding underage entry
For more about Bonsai Bar and what to expect at our classes, visit our website at: https://bonsaibar.com/products/deacon-giles-distillery
Happens on the following Dates:
Feb 20, 2025, 6:30pm to 8:30pm Timezone: EST
Mar 13, 2025, 6:30pm to 8:30pm Timezone: EST

Michael’s Harborside in Newburyport Hosts FREE Trivia and Live Music Nights
2025-02-20 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-02-19 18:00 - 21:00 | Michael’s Harborside, Tournament Wharf 1, Newburyport, M, 01950, United States
Through February, visit Michael’s Harborside in Newburyport for FREE Trivia every Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and FREE Live Music from a variety of local musicians from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Test your knowledge of pop culture, sports and more at the popular Michael’s Trivia Nights. And on Thursdays, enjoy a selection of live music by talented local artists. Restaurant hours are Sunday and Mondays, 11:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Tuesdays through Saturdays, 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. For more information, visit MichaelsHarborside.com.

Wintertide Piano Bar at Beauport Hotel Lobby
2025-02-20 18:00 - 21:00 | Beauport Hotel Gloucester, 55 Commercial Street, Gloucester, MA, 01930, United States
Drift away with every note.
Join us at our Wintertide Piano Bar in the lively Beauport Hotel Lobby every Thursday evening this winter from 6:00PM-9:00PM beginning Thursday, January 9th.
Let the evening unfold with style and charm at our exclusive piano bar, where the ambiance transforms as the sun sets. Join us for an unforgettable night of live music by talented pianists, featuring Ricky Lauria, setting the perfect mood in our cozy, nautical-inspired lobby.
Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and delicious bites from 1606 Restaurant and Oyster Bar, available for purchase throughout the evening.
Whether you’re enjoying a signature cocktail or savoring a seasonal bite while soaking in the music, the vibrant melodies and warm atmosphere make this weekly event a true highlight of the winter season.
Reservations are encouraged with arrival between 6:00PM-6:30PM. Reserve your spot now at the following link, or by calling 978-491-5090. Please notify restaurant should you be arriving past 6:30PM.
Learn More & Book Now: https://bit.ly/3ZYL61a

The World of Owls with Wingmasters
2025-02-20 10:30 - 14:20 | Wenham Museum, 132 Main St., Route 1A, Wenham, MA, 01984, United States
Get an up close look at amazing owls!
Wingmasters will be at Wenham Museum to introduce different owls and other birds of prey in our region. This indoor program shows how owls use their specialized powers of sight, hearing and flight to survive and thrive. A wealth of fact and folklore about these masters of the dark explains the natural and unnatural history of owls, while a variety of live owls provides the focus of the presentation. Learn more about Wingmasters at http://www.wingmasters.net/
This program is recommended for children ages 5 and up. Guests must remain seated for the duration of the 50-minute program to provide a comfortable atmosphere for the birds.
Presentations at 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM. Click here for the 1:30 PM event.
Advance Registration Required. Includes admission to the museum galleries.
Tickets:
$10 Members Child/Adult/Senior
$15 Nonmembers Child/Adult/Senior
Happens on the following Dates:
Feb 20, 2025, 10:30am to 11:20am Timezone: EST
Feb 20, 2025, 1:30pm to 2:20pm Timezone: EST

Coffee and Conversation at the Carlson Education Center
2025-02-20 10:30 - 11:30 | Cape Ann Museum Green, 13 Poplar Street, Gloucester, MA, 01930, United States
Carlson Education Center
CAM Green, 13 Poplar Street, Gloucester, MA
Free Program, Registration Required
Explore the photography of Gordon Parks.
You are invited to join us every Thursday for a unique experience. Led by a CAM docent, these deep dives into a single artwork or object from the Collection will begin with conversation, a short presentation and complimentary coffee at the Carlson Education Center, followed by a special trip to the James Center to view the object being discussed. No special knowledge needed! Just a curiosity to learn more in a small group setting and enjoy a unique experience.
Image Credit: Staff photo of the Coffee & Conversations at the Carlson Education Center discussion of Charles Allan Winter on January 16, 2025

Hands-on History with Historic Beverly
2025-02-20 10:00 - 11:00 | Salem Regional Visitor Center, 2 New Liberty Street, Salem, MA, 01970, United States
This Black History Month, join Krystina Yeager of Historic Beverly at the Salem Armory Visitor Center to hear stories about the lives of local Black residents in Essex County based on new research that’s been uncovered. Through engaging hands-on activities, we will explore parts of 18th century Black history, culture, and daily life that are often overlooked. Come feel fabric samples, play period games, and even learn how to do the minuet!
This 45-minute program is free, family-friendly, and open to all ages but geared towards kids 7+. Registration is strongly encouraged, space is limited.
