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Guilford Craft Expo 2026

Events Calendar - 2026


Find a multitude of fun events and great things to do, including weekend events, throughout the year, like music, festivals, comedy, outdoor fun, boat cruises, excursions for families and kids, food, wine and beer tastings.

Check out the listings of year-round Fairs & Festivals throughout New England. Also be sure to read our list of Great Things To Do in New England. Whether you're curious about what to this weekend, this month, or this season, we have you covered.

For events specifically related to the anniversary of the American Revolution, please visit our MA250 Events Calendar.

Find the dates you plan to travel or simply search the full events list below.

We welcome the events that are open to the public. Click here to Submit your Event for FREE

-= Featured Events =-

Celebrate the 250th Anniversary at XV Beacon

Feb 16, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026 15 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02108

 ID of the event
Step into history as Boston marks the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution. This exclusive package blends the city’s revolutionary heritage with XV Beacon’s signature luxury, offering a refined downtown stay just moments from Boston’s most iconic historic landmarks.

Guests enjoy a $250 Columbus Hospitality dining gift card, a curated historic welcome amenity inspired by 1776 (paired with local Downeast cider), complimentary parking, and a bespoke Boston 250 Historic Guide crafted by the concierge team—perfect for exploring the city’s Semiquincentennial celebrations in style.

Book Dates: February 16 – August 30, 2026
Stay Dates: April 21 – August 31, 2026

Available on select room types. Blackout dates apply. Cannot be combined with other promotions.

⚽ The World Cup at XV Beacon

Jun 11, 2026 - Jul 19, 2026 15 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02108

 ID of the event
Experience the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Boston with an ultra-luxury, fully curated stay designed for guests seeking the most exclusive and seamless tournament experience. This bespoke journey includes a multi-night stay in a signature suite, daily gourmet breakfast, personalized in-room amenities, and private luxury transportation to and from Gillette Stadium for match days.

Guests are treated to champagne welcome receptions, curated culinary experiences, priority dining reservations, and access to XV Beacon’s dedicated concierge team, who will design a complete itinerary for both match days and leisure time in Boston. Thoughtful welcome gifts and discreet, white-glove service ensure every detail is handled with care.

Dates: June 11 – July 19, 2026 (Boston matches on June 13, 16, 19, 23, 26, 29 & July 9, including the Quarterfinal)

The Spirit of 1776: Stay & Play at the Ivoryton Playhouse

Jun 25, 2026 - Jul 26, 2026 The Griswold Inn. 36 Main Street, Essex, CT 06426

Stay and Play
As part of its 250th anniversary celebration, The Griswold Inn is partnering with the historic Ivoryton Playhouse — Connecticut’s famed “First Lady of Theatre” — for a special Stay & Play experience featuring the beloved musical 1776. Located just two miles from the Inn, the Playhouse has entertained audiences for more than a century and celebrates its own 115th anniversary this year.

The package invites guests to immerse themselves in Revolutionary-era history through an overnight getaway that includes preferred seating to 1776, accommodations at The Griswold Inn, continental breakfast for two, and a commemorative keepsake.

Weekday packages are available for $350, while Friday and Saturday stays are priced at $385, with room upgrades available for an additional charge. Performances run throughout the week with both matinee and evening show options available.

Blending historic charm, award-winning theatre, and New England hospitality, the Stay & Play experience offers a memorable way to celebrate America’s founding spirit during The Griswold Inn’s milestone anniversary year.

Cultural Survival Bazaar @ Tiverton Four Corners Arts Center-RI

Jul 24, 2026 - Jul 26, 2026 3852 Main Rd. Tiverton, RI 02878

 ID of the event
Shop Indigenous | Live Performances | Ethnic Foods | World Music
Travel the world all in one place and discover handmade art, crafts, and meaningful cultural connections.

Meet world-class Indigenous makers and experience the enduring values of giving, reciprocity, and cultural stewardship. Explore a vibrant global marketplace where every handmade treasure becomes a bridge to ancient traditions and a powerful expression of living cultural heritage.

Embark on a journey across five continents in a single afternoon. Discover time-honored, one-of-a-kind art from more than 30 countries spanning the globe. Whether you are searching for handwoven textiles, intricate jewelry, or contemporary sculpture, every purchase directly supports Indigenous artists, livelihoods, and community-led initiatives worldwide.

What to Expect
  • A World-Class Marketplace
  • Live Cultural Performances
  • Hands-On Cultural Learning
  • Authentic Flavors
  • Connect with the Makers
  • Family-Friendly Experiences
Why It Matters

Your participation goes beyond shopping. It is a meaningful commitment to fair trade, Indigenous rights, and the preservation of cultural traditions that sustain communities around the world.

Cultural Survival Bazaar @ Farm Fresh-RI Providence

Aug 1, 2026 - Aug 2, 2026 10 Sims Avenue Providence, RI 02909

 ID of the event
Shop Indigenous | Live Performances | Ethnic Foods | World Music
Travel the world all in one place and discover handmade art, crafts, and meaningful cultural connections.

Meet world-class Indigenous makers and experience the enduring values of giving, reciprocity, and cultural stewardship. Explore a vibrant global marketplace where every handmade treasure becomes a bridge to ancient traditions and a powerful expression of living cultural heritage.

Embark on a journey across five continents in a single afternoon. Discover time-honored, one-of-a-kind art from more than 30 countries spanning the globe. Whether you are searching for handwoven textiles, intricate jewelry, or contemporary sculpture, every purchase directly supports Indigenous artists, livelihoods, and community-led initiatives worldwide.

What to Expect
  • A World-Class Marketplace
  • Live Cultural Performances
  • Hands-On Cultural Learning
  • Authentic Flavors
  • Connect with the Makers
  • Family-Friendly Experiences
Why It Matters

Your participation goes beyond shopping. It is a meaningful commitment to fair trade, Indigenous rights, and the preservation of cultural traditions that sustain communities around the world.

New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival 2026

Sep 18, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026 Loon Mountain Resort, 60 Mountain Road, Lincoln, NH 03251

 ID of the event
Join us at the 51st Annual New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival, September 18 – 20, 2026 at Loon Mountain Resort in Lincoln, NH.

This three-day celebration showcases the sights, sounds, and spirit of Scotland through traditional heavy athletics, live music and entertainment, food and drink, cultural activities, and more.

Cheer on your favorite athletes as they compete in The Caledonian Clash. Watch Scotland’s National Chef, Gary Maclean, demonstrate his culinary chops. Salute the pipes and drums as they march into parade square or dance along to the bands performing under the concert tent. Take a stroll down vendor village or participate in a free Try It class. Stop for a photo with the Highland cows, sample Scottish food, beer, and whisky, or trace your roots in Clan Village. You don’t have to be Scottish to enjoy this signature event presented by NHSCOT. Learn more about activities at the Games.

Tickets will be on sale soon! Check back for details.

Griswold Art Tour

Sep 22, 2026 - Dec 20, 2026 The Griswold Inn. 36 Main Street, Essex, CT 06426

Griswold Art Tour
The Griswold Inn is home to one of the finest private marine art collections in the country, with museum-quality paintings and artifacts displayed throughout the historic property. Originally built over generations by the Ladd/Lovell Family, the collection continues to grow under the stewardship of the Paul Family, who have cared for the Inn for more than 30 years.

Due to growing guest interest in the stories behind the artwork, The Griswold Inn introduced guided art tours led by co-owner and innkeeper Geoffrey Paul, whose passion and deep knowledge bring the collection vividly to life. Held seasonally and open to the public, these tours combine history, storytelling, and art in a uniquely engaging experience that has earned rave reviews from visitors and local historic groups alike.

Guests frequently praise the tours as informative, entertaining, and filled with fascinating historical insights — with many returning more than once. Additional public tours are planned for the fall, while private group tours paired with brunch, lunch, or dinner experiences are also available.

Arts & Crafts Shows

Culture Splash Returns to Rocky Neck for Its Sixth Season of Summer Arts Celebration

Jul 9, 2026 - Aug 27, 2026 6 Wonson Street, Gloucester, MA 01930

Culture Splash
Culture Splash returns to Gloucester's historic Rocky Neck Cultural District for its sixth season, bringing art, music, performances, dining, and community together every Thursday evening from July 9 through August 27. Visitors can explore galleries and artist studios, enjoy live music, poetry readings, demonstrations, waterfront dining, and special events while experiencing one of Cape Ann's most beloved summer traditions.

The festivities also feature a free water shuttle connecting key Gloucester locations to Rocky Neck, making it easy to enjoy an evening along the waterfront. Highlights throughout the season include live jazz, theater performances, artist demonstrations, film screenings, and appearances by local musicians and writers.

Culture Splash celebrates the rich artistic heritage of Rocky Neck while inviting visitors to discover Gloucester's vibrant creative community in a festive waterfront setting.

The Abbe Museum's Dawnland Festival Collaborates with the Smithsonian

Jul 11, 2026 - Jul 12, 2026 26 Mt Desert Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609

The Dawnland Festival of Arts & Ideas returns on the campus of College of the Atlantic. Hosted by the Abbe Museum, this multi-day summer festival celebrates Wabanaki and Native thought leadership through panels, performances, and a Northeastern Native arts market.

The 2026 festival marks a special collaboration with the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage as part of the Of the People: Smithsonian Festival of Festivals. Select panels and performances will feature joint programming, while the festival remains firmly centered on Wabanaki voices, perspectives, and cultural stewardship.

For more information, visit the Dawnland Festival website.

Charity Events

Save the Date for Boobstock!

Sep 12, 2026 - Sep 12, 2026 10 Woodland Rd, Deep River, CT 06417

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of live music, great food, and community spirit at the John Sobieski Club in Deep River.

This year’s Mini Music Fest will feature five incredible bands, delicious food, and dozens of exciting raffle prizes — all coming together for an important cause.

Hosted at the John Sobieski Club, the event is dedicated to supporting breast cancer patients. Proceeds raised will benefit both the Middlesex Health Cancer Center and Smilow Cancer Hospital, helping provide care, support, and resources to those affected by breast cancer.

Bring your friends, enjoy amazing live entertainment, and help make a difference while celebrating music, community, and hope.

Fairs & Festivals

Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival - A Cape-Wide Summer Garden Celebration

Jul 10, 2026 - Jul 19, 2026 Barnstable, Dennis, Harwich, MA Barnstable, Dennis, Harwich, MA

Hydrangea Fest
Experience the beauty of Cape Cod in full bloom during the Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival, a ten-day celebration of gardens, horticulture, and local creativity. Explore self-guided tours of stunning private gardens throughout the Cape, each offering its own unique character and charm while supporting local nonprofits. Beyond the gardens, visitors can enjoy workshops, lectures, gardening classes, artist demonstrations, and special promotions from participating nurseries and businesses. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or simply looking for a picturesque summer outing, this beloved annual festival offers plenty of inspiration and natural beauty.

Lotus Festival

Oct 10, 2026 - Oct 10, 2026 Gillette Stadium, 1 Patriot Pl, (Entrance W1/W2) Foxborough, MA 02035

More About the Lotus Festival! This will be for an evening of inspiration, entertainment, networking, and dancing, so buy your tickets so you don't miss: - A thoughtfully curated dinner menu blending rich flavors and bold creativity - An open bar with signature cocktails and classic favorites - A thrilling live auction showcasing one-of-a-kind items and exclusive experiences - Interactive moments that bring our programs in India to life. See the impact you’re helping create - Live performances, dancing, and high-energy entertainment throughout the night - Opportunities to connect, network, and engage with like-minded changemakers united by purpose Come celebrate, connect, and make an impact together.

Films

Jaws: On Amity Island at Vineyard Haven, Martha's Vineyard

Jul 11, 2026 - Jul 11, 2026 19 Owen Park Way, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568

Experience one of cinema's most iconic thrillers in a truly unforgettable setting at JAWS: On Amity Island at Owen Park Beach in Vineyard Haven, Martha's Vineyard.

Watch Jaws under the stars at this unique waterfront screening, with viewing available from the beach, lawn, or designated water-access areas. VIP guests enjoy early admission, reserved seating, complimentary food and beverages, exclusive gifts, and access to a private hospitality area.

Beach and lawn seating are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Water viewing is limited and requires advance registration, waiver completion, and participation through the event's designated water-access partner.

Advance tickets are required, and admission times vary by ticket type. The movie begins at 8:00 PM. Complimentary shuttle service will be available from Martha's Vineyard Regional High School, as no on-site parking is available.

Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or low-profile beach chairs and arrive early to enjoy this one-of-a-kind Martha's Vineyard movie experience.

Museums

Free Museum Admission for All youth at the Cape Cod Museum of Art

Jul 16, 2025 - Jul 1, 2026 60 Hope Lane (just off Route 6A) Dennis, MA 02638

The Cape Cod Museum of Art is thrilled to announce a generous donation from The Design Initiative Inc., an architecture practice deeply committed to designing spaces and supporting organizations that strengthen our community. Thanks to the gift, admission to the museum is now free for all visitors 21 years old and younger for the next year. This initiative opens the doors to students and families, providing access to our permanent collection and inspiring exhibitions year-round. The Design Initiative, led by architect and artist Mary-Ann Agresti AIA, is known for creating public and workplace environments that nurture community.

New Haven Museum: "It's Pronounced Ah-beetz" Exhibition Opening

Oct 9, 2025 - Oct 31, 2027 New Haven Museum 114 Whitney Avenue, New Haven, CT 06510

The New Haven Museum (NHM) will open a new free-admission exhibit titled “Pronounced Ah-Beetz”, exploring the history, culture, and legacy of New Haven-style apizza.

The exhibit traces pizza’s origins from Italy’s working-class food to its rise in New Haven, highlighting the city’s “Big 3” iconic pizzeriasFrank Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana, Sally’s Apizza, and Modern Apizza — and how they became national favorites. It will also showcase other local pizzerias such as Ernie’s, Zuppardi’s, BAR, Zeneli’s, Olde World, and the Big Green Pizza Truck, portraying the deep ties between family, food, and community.

Co-curated by Jason Bischoff-Wurstle (NHM), and Gorman Bechard, Dean Falcone, and Colin M. Caplan — the team behind the documentary “Pizza, A Love Story” — the exhibit features:

  • Artifacts, oral histories, and memorabilia from local collections.
  • Video footage from the documentary.
  • Replicas of the “Big 3” pizzerias, complete with a realistic brick oven.
  • Short histories of Foxon Park Soda and locally served beers

The idea originated in 2009 during the making of the documentary, with Caplan recognized as the main historian of New Haven pizza. Recently, following a trip to Washington, D.C., where Representative Rosa DeLauro declared New Haven the “Pizza Capital of the U.S.”, the curators expanded the project with new materials.

The exhibit’s title, “Pronounced Ah-Beetz,” reflects the authentic New Haven pronunciation of apizza (from Italian la pizza). It will be on display through October 2027.

Martine Gutierrez Unveils Monumental New Installation at Worcester Art Museum

Sep 23, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026 55 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA 01609

First Revelation of the Sovereign Queen
The Worcester Art Museum has commissioned acclaimed interdisciplinary artist Martine Gutierrez to create First Revelation of the Sovereign Queen, the newest installation in its renowned Wall at WAM series.

Opening September 23, 2026, the large-scale photographic work will transform the Museum's 67-foot Renaissance Court wall, drawing inspiration from religious art throughout WAM's collection while weaving together themes of identity, spirituality, heritage, and self-expression. Blending photography, performance, handcrafted sets, and original costumes, Gutierrez reimagines historical symbols through a contemporary lens.

To celebrate the installation, visitors are invited to a special After Hours event with the artist on September 25, followed by an Artist Talk on September 27, where Gutierrez will discuss the inspiration and creative process behind the work.

The installation will remain on view for two years, continuing the Worcester Art Museum's tradition of bringing contemporary artists into conversation with its historic collection.

Music

Rose Clancy’s Tuesday Night Fiddle Concerts on Cape Cod ~ All Summer Long!

Jun 30, 2026 - Sep 8, 2026 Chatham Drama Guild, 134 Crowell Rd Chatham, MA 02633

Experience the warmth and spirit of a traditional Irish gathering with an evening filled with lively music, heartfelt songs, spirited fiddle tunes, and captivating stories. Featuring Rose Clancy, Max Cohen, Alex Becrelis, Jake Goodwin, special guest Clayton March, and other talented musicians, this special concert celebrates the rich traditions of Irish culture. Gene and Cecilia Clancy will bring their signature old-world IRISH CHARM, creating an atmosphere that feels both welcoming and unforgettable. After the show, continue the celebration with Cecilia's comforting Irish Tea and Gene's famous homemade Brown Bread—a cherished tradition that brings everyone together. A cash bar will also be available.

Parading to Tanglewood: A Gathering at Berkshire Busk!

Aug 1, 2026 - Aug 1, 2026 The Triplex Cinema, 70 Railroad St, Great Barrington, MA 01230

Experience an evening of music, creativity, and community as Tanglewood musicians join local Berkshire artists for a special outdoor celebration in Great Barrington. Hosted by Marcus P. Smith of the Du Bois Freedom Center, the event features performances from Tanglewood Music Center Fellows, BU Tanglewood Institute musicians, acclaimed fiddler Ida Mae Specker, and Berkshire Busk! artists. Together, these talented performers will showcase the rich musical spirit of the Berkshires, bringing vibrant sounds and shared experiences to the heart of downtown.

We The People At Tanglewood

Aug 1, 2026 - Aug 9, 2026 297 West Street, Lenox, MA 01240

Join world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma for We The People: Our Shared Past, Present, and Future, a thought-provoking week of concerts, conversations, and community events at Tanglewood. Bringing together artists, thinkers, musicians, and local communities, this inspiring series explores shared values, our connection to one another and the land, and the possibilities for a hopeful future. Through music and dialogue, participants are invited to reflect on the stories that unite us and imagine ways to strengthen community and common purpose.

Outdoor Activities

Wednesday Morning Bird Walks with Audubon

Nov 5, 2025 - Nov 19, 2026 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI 02917

Audubon offers small-group Wednesday Morning Bird Walks with naturalist Laura Carberry. Each week a new birding destination will be chosen. Advance registration is required. Location will be sent to registered participants in advance.

Locations Across Rhode Island. Locations determined weekly.

Parading to Tanglewood: A Sunrise Gathering at Bousquet Mountain

Aug 1, 2026 - Aug 1, 2026 101 Dan Fox Dr, Bousquet Mountain Pittsfield, MA 01201

Welcome the sunrise with world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma as We The People Week begins atop Bousquet Mountain. This unique community gathering features live music, spoken word performances, Indigenous cultural contributions, and live art from local and regional artists. Guests can hike or take the chairlift to the summit, where they'll experience a memorable sunrise celebration followed by coffee, pastries, and conversation with neighbors. After the event, participants are invited to join a community seed-planting activity at Roots Rising's Farm & Education Center.

For those choosing to hike, the trail includes a moderate uphill climb of approximately 2/3 mile each way with a 750-foot elevation gain. Participants should wear appropriate footwear and clothing and allow 20–35 minutes to reach the summit. Trail lighting and volunteers will be available to assist hikers along the route.

Performing Arts and Theater

Polly in the Colony: A True Revolutionary Tale

Aug 8, 2026 - Aug 9, 2026 Boston College High School, 150 Morrissey Blvd Boston, MA 02125

A new and exciting children's play that is a remarkable, funny and mostly true account of a fashion doll who came from England on one of the Boston Tea Party ships and found herself caught up in the American Revolution. The story follows her journey from vain fashion doll to a true American colonist and teaches adults and kids alike about patriotism, family, courage and how one person can change history with intention, grit and using your voice for the benefit of all. Tickets can be purchased online through the website or at the door.

Sports

21st Annual Kelly Brush Ride

Sep 12, 2026 - Oct 24, 2026 Alumni Stadium, Middlebury College, 14 Old Chapel Rd Middlebury, VT 05753

The 21st Annual Kelly Brush Ride, powered by Union Mutual, is back! This incredible fundraising event brings our community together to help make active lives possible for people with spinal cord injuries and to improve safety for ski racers on course. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just getting started, the Kelly Brush Ride is a fun day you won’t want to miss! Join us by riding from Middlebury on one of our scenic supported road routes or our 30-mile gravel route. Can’t make it? Ride from Anywhere with our remote option! Choose your own route and join us anytime until October 24.