North of Boston

Country Fair at Cider Hill Farm
2026-11-06 09:00 - 17:00, 2026-11-05 09:00 - 17:00, 2026-11-04 09:00 - 17:00, 2026-11-03 09:00 - 17:00, 2026-11-02 09:00 - 17:00, 2026-11-01 09:00 - 17:00, 2026-10-31 09:00 - 17:00, 2026-10-30 09:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) and 5 more dates | Cider Hill Farm, 45 Fern Avenue, Amesbury, M, 01913, United States
Join us Labor Day weekend for a quintessential New England celebration welcoming the season’s bountiful harvest! Enjoy summer apple picking, free tastings, hard cider, classic fair foods, fall flower cutting, old time-y games, free live music, tractor rides & more! See event schedule as we add more happenings to the line-up! Free admission (does not include pick-your-own tickets, food or drinks).

Andy Grammer
2026-11-04 19:30 - 21:30 | Shalin Liu Performance Center, 37 Main Street, Rockport, MA, 01966, United States
An intimate, high-energy evening with multi-platinum artist Andy Grammer. Stripped to its core, this one-man show blends acoustic performance, spoken word, storytelling, and real-time audience connection into something deeply personal and undeniably uplifting. With only a piano, a guitar, and a room full of voices, Andy turns the stage into a shared experience: moving effortlessly between chart-topping hits, new songs, and the stories behind them. Raw, funny, and fully present, it’s an invitation into the heart of the music.
Multi-platinum artist Andy Grammer continues to energize, empower, and bring together audiences around the world with his uplifting and honest pop anthems. His observations and affirmations pick people back up when they need it, affirm their potential, and encourage them to keep going. Grammer was even named the #1 “Happy” Streaming artist globally. Inspiring fans around the world, he has over 3B global streams under his belt and a social media footprint of nearly 5M followers.
His catalog consists of numerous hits, including the 5X platinum single “Honey, I’m Good;” the 2X platinum singles “Keep Your Head Up,” “Fresh Eyes, and “Don’t Give Up On Me;” the platinum singles “Good To Be Alive (Hallelujah)” and “Fine By Me;” and the gold albums Andy Grammer (2011) and Magazines Or Novels (2014).  When “Don’t Give Up On Me” became the soundtrack for ESPN’s 13th annual V Week for Cancer Research, he garnered a Sports Emmy for Outstanding Music Direction and a Clio Award.
Grammer recently released the deluxe version of his acclaimed new studio album Monster via S-Curve/Hollywood Records. Monster sees Grammer elevating the high-energy songwriting that has won him millions of fans around the globe and leaning into acoustic melodies inspired by a novel foray into the mandolin. Grammer poignantly explores themes of family, relationships, happiness, and letting go across the project.
Grammer’s passions not only lie in his music, but also in his philanthropic work. He was recently recognized by Claire’s Place Foundation for Cystic Fibrosis Support (‘Clarity Impact Award’) and by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (‘Defender of Potential’ Award) for the incredible impact his work has made in the world. He is an advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken at high-profile events including Mental Health America’s 2022 Annual Conference as the keynote speaker.

Homeschool Adventures: Session 1
2026-11-03 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-10-27 13:00 - 16:00 | Appleton Farms, 219 County Road, Ipswich, MA, 01938, United States
Young explorers are invited to join us in September & October for a 4-part homeschool series that will get them active & moving with nature adventures, exercise, and outdoor skill building. While exploring Appleton Farms & the Crane Estate, participants complete active adventures & design challenges that will exercise both their body & mind. Some potential activities include kayaking, tide pooling, wetland exploration, orienteering, gardening, obstacle course design, and more!
This is a drop-off program that is open to ages 5-11 and will include small group activities based on age and peer mentoring opportunities between age groups.
The class takes place rain or shine, with as much time spent outdoors as possible. Students should arrive dressed for the weather and bring a lunch and water bottle.
Homeschool Adventures: Session 1- This 4-class series program takes place on Tuesday afternoons from 1-4pm on September 15, 22, 29 & October 6.
September 15: Tidepool & Shoreline Exploration at the Crane Estate
September 22: Kayaking Adventure at the Crane Estate
September 29: Ponding & Invasive Species Management at Appleton Farms
October 6: Obstacle Course Design Challenge at Appleton Farms
Tuition for the 4 classes is $275 for Trustees Members and $325 for nonmembers. Registration covers all listed session dates.

JazzReach’s METTA QUINTET
2026-11-02 19:00 - 21:00 | Shalin Liu Performance Center, 37 Main Street, Rockport, MA, 01966, United States
All of JazzReach’s artistic programming is carried out exclusively by the organization’s critically acclaimed resident ensemble, METTA QUINTET.
METTA QUINTET pushes the boundaries of modern jazz with adventurous originals, dynamic improvisation, and bold collaborations. Featuring some of today’s most inventive musicians, the acclaimed ensemble blends exceptional artistry with a passion for innovation, creating an exciting, immersive concert experience that celebrates jazz’s limitless creativity and evolving future.
A cohesive, tight-knit unit featuring some of today’s most esteemed, creative artists, METTA QUINTET is fueled by a collective, open-minded musical curiosity and dedicated to exploring new artistic territory while maintaining a passionate commitment to arts education, fostering new audiences and nurturing young talent.
Through the commissioning of all-new works and the creation of immersive, live multi-media concert programs for the MAIN STAGE, METTA QUINTET is committed to challenging convention and expanding the boundaries of the live jazz experience.
The quintet released its critically acclaimed debut recording, Going to Meet The Man (Koch) in 2002 featuring eight commissioned works by the then-emerging, now-renowned composers, Brad Mehldau, Kurt Rosenwinkel, Mark Turner, Larry Goldings and George Colligan. All works were inspired by short stories by celebrated American author James Baldwin. In July 2006, Sunnyside Records released the quintet’s second critically lauded CD Subway Songs, which features eight all-original commissioned compositions inspired by the sociological dynamism of the New York City Subway experience.
In early 2012, the quintet, in partnership with the digital music distributor, The Orchard, released the globally-themed, Big Drum/Small World to unanimously positive reviews! The project features a diverse array of all-new music by renowned composers from eight different countries including Lionel Loueke, Miguel Zenon, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Yosvanny Terry, Omer Avital and Metta Quintet’s very own, Marcus Strickland. The project explores the globalization and ever-broadening definition and sound of jazz.

Santiago Cañón-Valencia, cello
2026-11-01 15:00 - 17:00 | Shalin Liu Performance Center, 37 Main Street, Rockport, MA, 01966, United States
Colombian cellist Santiago Cañón-Valencia is an internationally acclaimed soloist, composer, and recording artist recognized for his expressive depth and technical brilliance. Described by The Strad as “technically flawless… totally under the skin of the composers’ idioms,” he will perform works of Debussy, Ginastera, Shostakovich, and more.
Program
DEBUSSY: Sonate in D minor, L. 135
GINASTERA: Cello Sonata, Op. 49
PÄRT: Fratres
CAÑON-VALENCIA: Ad Noctem
SHOSTAKOVICH: Cello Sonata in D minor, Op. 40
Born in Bogotá in 1995, he made his orchestral debut at just six years old with the Orquesta Filarmónica de Bogotá and has since built a global career spanning major concert halls and orchestras.
A BBC New Generation Artist (2022), Cañón-Valencia has performed with leading ensembles including the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Brussels Philharmonic, Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, and Seoul Philharmonic, as well as orchestras throughout the Americas and Europe. His 2025–2026 season features engagements with the San Francisco Symphony, Kansas City Symphony, and Camerata Pacifica, alongside international recitals and festival appearances.
A prizewinner at major competitions—including Silver Medalist and Audience Favorite at the 2019 International Tchaikovsky Competition—he is also a passionate advocate for new music, regularly premiering and commissioning works by contemporary composers.
As a recording artist, his releases range from core repertoire to original compositions, including his debut on Deutsche Grammophon and his album Ascenso, highlighting Latin American voices. Equally dedicated to artistic exploration, Cañón-Valencia’s work reflects a broad creative vision that extends beyond performance into composition and the visual arts.

Sweet Halloween at Cider Hill Farm
2026-11-01 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-10-31 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-10-25 10:00 - 14:00 | Cider Hill Farm, 45 Fern Avenue, Amesbury, M, 01913, United States
Join us for a not-so-spooky, trick-or-treating experience brimming with sweet treats and boo-tiful fall foliage! Break out those adorable costumes and get ready for a fun, festive day at the farm.

SAFETY 80'S - Early Halloween Show
2026-10-31 13:00 - 16:30 | The Cut, 177 Main Street , Gloucester, MA, 01930, United States
Bring the kids to a full on 80’s extravaganza dance party with SAFETY! Family costumes strongly encouraged!
SAFETY is not your average 80’s band with 4 lead vocalists! Classic hits by Madonna • Prince • Cyndi Lauper • Devo • Talking Heads • Soft Cell • Janet Jackson • Culture Club • Human League • George Michael • The Cure • Depeche Mode • Joan Jett • Stevie Nicks • Eurythmics • Kim Wilde • Chaka Khan • Pretenders • The Cars • David Bowie • Billy Idol • The Go-Go’s • Pat Benatar and more!

Hotel Transylvania
2026-10-31 11:00 - 14:00 | Shalin Liu Performance Center, 37 Main Street, Rockport, MA, 01966, United States
Dracula’s luxurious monster resort is turned upside down when an unsuspecting human stumbles into Hotel Transylvania and falls for his daughter, Mavis. Packed with laugh-out-loud comedy, lovable characters, and spooky fun, this animated family favorite is a delight for audiences of all ages.

SAFETY 80'S - 21+ Halloween Show (The Late Show)
2026-10-30 20:00 - 23:00 | The Cut, 177 Main Street , Gloucester, MA, 01930, United States
Costumes encouraged!
SAFETY is not your average 80’s band with 4 lead vocalists! Classic hits by Madonna • Prince • Cyndi Lauper • Devo • Talking Heads • Soft Cell • Janet Jackson • Culture Club • Human League • George Michael • The Cure • Depeche Mode • Joan Jett • Stevie Nicks • Eurythmics • Kim Wilde • Chaka Khan • Pretenders • The Cars • David Bowie • Billy Idol • The Go-Go’s • Pat Benatar and more!

East Nash Grass
2026-10-30 19:30 - 21:00 | Shalin Liu Performance Center, 37 Main Street, Rockport, MA, 01966, United States
How did East Nash Grass follow up their 2024 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) award for Best New Artist? By earning a nomination for Entertainer of the Year, IBMA’s highest honor, in 2025, and celebrating fiddler Maddie Denton’s win as Fiddler of the Year. In short, East Nash Grass have quickly established themselves as the fresh new face of Nashville’s storied bluegrass tradition, a supergroup of rising stars: Grand Master Fiddle champion Denton is joined by banjo player Cory Walker (banjo player on the five-time nominated “Carter & Cleveland” album this year, among numerous accolades), 2022 IBMA Momentum Instrumentalist of the Year Harry Clark, and new guitar player Frank Rische. This is an all-star band that harkens back to the sort of talent collected in the original Blue Grass Boys and a powerhouse leader of the next generation in bluegrass excellence.

Captain Elias Davis House Tour
2026-10-30 14:00 - 14:30 | Cape Ann Museum, 27 Pleasant Street, Gloucester, 01930, United States
What can a house tell us about the people who lived there?
Step inside the Capt. Elias Davis House and discover how architecture, craftsmanship, and everyday objects reveal the lives of one Gloucester family and the changing history of Cape Ann. This docent-led experience invites visitors to look closely at the details that transform a historic building into a story of community, commerce, and home.

Spiritualism Tours by Candlelight at Hammond Castle Museum
2026-10-29 18:00 - 23:30 | Hammond Castle Museum, 80 Hesperus Avenue, Gloucester, MA, 01930, United States
From John Hays Hammond Jr.’s attempts to communicate with supernatural entities using a Faraday Cage to Irene Fenton Hammond’s extensive astrological writings under a mysterious pen name, this 55-minute, fully-guided specialty tour sets the stage for a fun and informative seasonal experience unlike any other. The dramatic, Gothic-inspired architecture of the Museum and the twilight atmosphere are enhanced by the light of handheld electronic lanterns throughout your tour.
New in 2026: Extended Hours and Midnight Tours
For the first time, Hammond Castle Museum is offering its popular Spiritualism Tours by Candlelight during extended late-night hours–including a midnight tour–on October 22nd and 29th—a one-of-a-kind experience for those celebrating the Halloween season on the North Shore!
Admission:
July, August, & September: $27.50.
October: $35.
Museum Member savings apply.
Please be mindful when processing your reservation to select the correct reservation date and corresponding admission price.

Josh Ritter
2026-10-28 19:30 - 21:00 | Shalin Liu Performance Center, 37 Main Street, Rockport, MA, 01966, United States
A Book of Gold Thrown Open
Josh Ritter is a renowned singer, songwriter, musician, artist and best-selling author. One of today’s most thoughtful and prolific voices, he has released eleven studio albums including 2019’s widely acclaimed Fever Breaks of which NPR Music praised, “He remains a hydrant of ideas while embodying an endless capacity for empathy and indignation, often within a single song.”
“Josh Ritter remains at the top of his game two decades into a highlight-strewn career. He’d be forgiven for loosening his grip, but his hand has never felt surer.” NPR Music
His twelfth studio album I Believe in You, My Honeydew is out now. Two-plus decades into his celebrated career, Ritter has written music that has transcended generations including luminaries such as Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and Bob Weir covering his songs.” The Book of Gold Thrown Open tour is meant to encompass the whole of Ritter’s career, versus focusing on any one studio album.
In addition to his work as a musician, Ritter is also a national best-selling author, having released two novels to date: 2021’s “The Great Glorious Goddamn of It All” and 2011’s “Bright’s Passage”. Released to critical attention, Stephen King wrote in The New York Times Book Review that “Bright’s Passage” shines with a compressed lyricism that recalls Ray Bradbury in his prime. This is the work of a gifted novelist.
“Josh Ritter remains at the top of his game two decades into a highlight-strewn career. He’d be forgiven for loosening his grip, but his hand has never felt surer.” NPR Music
“Harking back to Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen and maybe a little Mark Knopfler, Mr. Ritter has always been a slinger of serious ideas and high-flown imagery.” The New York Times
“Mysterious, melancholy, melodic and those are only the M’s.” -Stephen King in Entertainment Weekly

Draw The Line
2026-10-24 20:00 - 22:00 | Larcom Theatre, 13 Wallis Street, Beverly, MA, 01915, United States
Draw The Line blazes with 25+ years of homage to rock ‘n roll icons Aerosmith. As the world’s only officially endorsed Aerosmith Tribute Show, it’s earned nods from Aerosmith themselves, top DJs, journalists, and a global fan base.
They channel Aerosmith’s bluesy hard rock, heavy metal, and rhythm and blues with uncanny precision, belting out hits like “Walk this Way,” “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” and “Janie’s Got a Gun.” Lead singer Neill Byrnes, an MTV-recognized Steven Tyler look-alike, brings the magic to life.
This isn’t just a show; it’s a mind-blowing, high-caliber experience that’ll leave you wanting more. Don’t miss your chance to witness Draw The Line as they become Aerosmith, delivering an electrifying journey through rock history.
Thelarcom.org/drawtheline

Hawthorne Hotel Halloween Ball: Phobia
2026-10-24 19:30 - 2026-10-25 00:00 | Hawthorne Hotel, 18 Washington Sq. West, Salem, 01970, United States
The event, introduced in 1990 and hosted by the Hawthorne, features a live band and two djs, interactive experiences, a costume contest, stationed hors d’oeuvres and cash bars on three floors. Dance, people-watch, take selfies in front of our themed backdrops and enjoy being part of a premier bucket-list Halloween event.
The theme, Phobia, will transform classic phobias into a world of shadow, illusion and psychological suspense. This isn’t just about spiders! Think nystophobia (fear of darkness), thanatophobia (fear of death), glossophobia (fear of public speaking), spectrophobia (fear of mirrors) or chronophobia (fear of time passing.)
