January 16-17
Over 160 antiques dealers from 11 different states come together for the largest indoor antiques show in greater Boston. Whether you're a collector, decorator, or just browsing, you'll find anything from movie memorabilia to estate jewelry.
Wilmington, MA. 781-862-4039;
www.neantiqueshows.com
21st ANNUAL ORCHID SOCIETY SHOW January 23-24
This year's theme: Orchid Harbor. The Cape and Islands' Orchid Society presents its annual show Resort and Conference Center at Hyannis. Featuring lectures, demonstrations, workshops, and a plant sale. Preview dinner on the evening of the 22nd—reserve tickets until January 15th!
Hyannis, MA. 508-758-2888;
www.caios.org
17TH ANNUAL RHODE ISLAND FLOWER SHOW
February 18-21
This annual show features creative exhibitions by dozens of horticulturalists, as well as lectures, cooking lessons, seminars, and demonstrations by regionally and internationally recognized experts. Learn what will grow best in your little green patch whether it's a fire escape or a field.
Providence, RI. 401-272-0980;
www.flowershow.com
NEW ENGLAND HOME SHOW February 25-28
The New England Home Show is a homeowner's one-stop shop for everything related to the home. Over 300 exhibitors are on hand to lend expert advice on anything from renovations to accessories.
Boston, MA. 856-784-4774;
www.newenglandhomeshows.com
BOSTON GARDEN AND FLOWER SHOW
March 24-28
A beloved tradition of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society is the Boston Flower and Garden Show, which has brought color and visual warmth to springtime in Boston every year since 1871. Gather expert tips during lectures and demonstrations, then get started on your ideas at the garden marketplace. Inspiration abounds at again at this glorious event.
Boston, MA. 617-933-4900;
www.masshort.org
35TH ANNUAL DAFFODIL FESTIVAL WEEKEND
April 23-25
Originated by the late Jean MacAusland, the weekend has grown into a full-scale celebration of winter's thaw, joyous for both islanders and visitors alike. Daffodils adorn the island's roadsides, gardens, and shop windows with blossoms of yellow, orange, white, and even pale pink. Featured is the Annual Antique Car Parade, featuring over 100 daffodil-bedecked antique cars.
Nantucket, MA. 508-228-1700;
www.nantucketchamber.org
ART MUSEUM WINE & FOOD TASTING
April 27
Sample fine wines and food from some of the Cape's best restaurants at the Cape Cod Museum of Art's tasting event. Attendees can also enjoy music, a drawing with prizes for wine lovers, and the museum's gorgeous collection of art in a variety of media.
Dennis, MA. 508-385-4477;
www.ccmoa.org
BRIMFIELD ANTIQUES SHOW
May 11-16
This annual outdoor antiques show is the largest in the world. Over 6,000 national and international antique dealers converge in western Mass for a near carnival atmosphere. Stay overnight in one of the quaint B&B's nearby.
Brimfield, MA. www.brimfieldshow.com
ANNUAL TOAST OF HARWICH
May 14
Head to Wequassett Inn to sample fine wines and indulgent hors d'oeuvres prepared by Harwich's top chefs. While you enjoy the feast, browse the work of local artists and bid in the silent art auction.
Pleasant Bay, MA. 508-430-1165;
www.harwichcc.com
CAPE COD MARITIME DAYS
May 1-31
Celebrate Cape Cod's maritime heritage at this weeklong festival, which includes history symposiums, exhibits, and walking tours. Special events and activities show a new side of the region's historic lighthouses, local seaports, and museums.
Cape-wide. 508-362-3225;
www.capecodmaritimedays.com
ANNUAL LILAC SUNDAY May 9
Of the thousands of flowering plants in the Arboretum, only one, the lilac, is singled out each year for a daylong celebration. On Lilac Sunday, garden enthusiasts from all over New England gather at the Arboretum to picnic, watch Morris dancing, and tour the lilac collection. Bring a picnic or visit the many eateries on nearby Centre and South Streets.
Jamaica Plain, MA. 617-524-1718;
www.arboretum.harvard.edu
14TH ANNUAL NANTUCKET WINE FESTIVAL May 19-23
Nantucket Island is transformed into an oenophile's oasis at this annual festival that brings together over 150 wineries of international acclaim. Learn about trends, changes in winemaking philosophy, and techniques from the masters at winemaking symposia. Celebrity chefs, wine auctions, and special events make the festival a New England favorite.
Nantucket, MA. 508-228-1128;
www.nantucketwinefestival.com
29TH ANNUAL HERB FESTIVAL
May 14-16
Enjoy an herb and plant sale, historical exhibitions about herbs, and a tour through the Green Briar wildflower garden at this annual festival to benefit the Green Briar Nature Center in Sandwich.
Sandwich, MA. 508-888-6870;
www.thorntonburgess.org
HOME, GARDEN & FLOWER SHOW
MAY 14-16
Last year's show brought a record breaking 8,000 visitors to the Fryeburg Fairgrounds, and it's easy to see why. Encounter chefs from prestigious resorts all over New England during the "Meet the Chefs" cooking series. Enjoy special events, professional exhibits, and garden marketplaces offering everything from seedlings and shrubs to grills and garden gadgets.
Fryeburg, ME. 207-935-2845;
www.homegardenflowershow.com
PAAM ART CONSIGNMENT AUCTION
May 17
Take a trip to Lands End and claim ownership of an artwork by a top local talent at this live auction hosted by the Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM). Proceeds from the auction directly benefit PAAM's programs. A great weekend to comb the beach at Herring Cove and Race Point after your shopping!
Provincetown, MA. 508-487-1750;
www.paam.org
ANTIQUES SHOW & FLEA MARKET
May 22
Set your GPS to River Road and Main Street in Orleans to browse the best wares of antique dealers, craft makers, and gardeners. Don't forget to stop by the Orleans Historical Society for a special antiques sale.
Orleans, MA. 508-255-4528;
www.orleanshistoricalsociety.org
9th ANNUAL CAPE COD MARITIME FESTIVAL & PIRATE BALL
June 11-13
The Osterville Business & Professional Association hosts a celebration of maritime artists, sculptors, music, and flower displays throughout the village. The Pirate Ball kicks things off on Friday night.
Hyannis, MA. 508-775-1723;
www.capecodmaritimemuseum.org
STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
June 12
Treat your taste buds to old-fashioned strawberry shortcake and other "berry" good dishes while enjoying live music.
Orleans, MA. 508-255-8202;
www.orleanshistoricalsociety.org
12TH ANNUAL NEWPORT FLOWER SHOW
June 25-27
Newport's popular annual show features juried horticultural displays, garden lectures and demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and tours led by area experts. A garden marketplace on the oceanside lawn of Rosecliff Mansion is a rare treat.
Newport, RI. 401-847-1000;
www.newportmansions.org
6TH ANNUAL ART AUCTION & DINNER
June 26
Habitat for Humanity of Martha's Vineyard hosts a spectacular evening of music, wine, fine food, and art auction for the construction of their 6th house on the island.
Vineyard Haven, MA. 508-696-4646;
www.habitatmv.org
37TH ANNUAL ANTIQUES FAIR
June 26
The Brewster Historical Society's open-air fair features over 75 top antiques dealers at the Drummer Boy Fairgrounds. Enjoy the summer sunshine while finding a few pieces for your own collection. The windmill will be working and the blacksmith shop will be in full swing!
Brewster, MA. 508-896-9521;
www.brewsterhistoricalsociety.org
13TH ANNUAL SECRET GARDEN TOUR
July 11
Discover the secret oases hidden along Provincetown's streets and lanes when the Provincetown Art Association & Museum hosts its annual garden tour. Whether your dream garden boasts sweeping views or rare flora, you're sure to be enchanted by these very pretty spaces.
Provincetown, MA. 508-487-1750;
www.paam.org
SANDWICH GARDEN TOUR
July 17
The Thornton W. Burgess Society hosts a tour of charming private gardens in Sandwich. Each garden showcases a different theme or style from herbs to cutting and Victorian to Zen.
Sandwich, MA. 508-888-6870;
www.thorntonburgess.org
SMALL PAINTINGS SALE
July 17
A small painting sale at Castle Hill, including faculty and students along with artist local and beyond, to support the efforts of Truro Center for the Arts. A perfect opportunity to find a piece for that empty nook in the hall between the coat closet and the dining room.
Truro, MA. 508-349-7511;
www.castlehill.org
33ND ANNUAL ANTIQUES SHOW
July 29-August 2
Over 30 prestigious exhibitors display antique furniture, fine art, oriental rugs, maritime antiques, and folk art from around the world. Want a first look? Don't miss the preview party on July 31st.
Nantucket, MA. 508-228-1894 x130;
www.nha.org
35th ANNUAL CASTLE HILL ART AUCTION
August 7
This fun annual auction is a perfect chance to take home a piece of local art while supporting the Truro Center for the Arts at Castle Hill's many programs, events, and lectures.
Truro, MA. 508-349-7511;
www.castlehill.org
FAWC 34TH ANNUAL EXHIBITION & AUCTION
August 6-21
The Fine Arts Work Center's Annual Exhibition and Auction is a fundraiser to benefit the center's programs and fellowships. Come to the opening reception on the 6th, where you will find fine works of art, and antiques. A silent and live auction will be held on the 21st during an evening of dinner and cocktails.
Provincetown, MA. 508-487-9960;
www.fawc.org
COASTSWEEP!
Ongoing
The annual state-wide coastal cleanup sponsored by the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM), and coordinated by the Urban Harbors Institute (UHI) of the University of Massachusetts Boston. All Beaches, MA. coastsweep.umb.edu
"ALL AROUND THE COMMON" September 12
Each fall, the Captain Bangs Hallet House, Yarmouth New Church, Winslow Crocker House, and Edward Gorey House at Yarmouthport Village Common celebrate the season with free admission and special events.
Yarmouthport, MA, 508-362-3021;
www.hsoy.org
6TH ANNUAL HISTORIC HOUSE TOUR September 18
This self-guided tour through Provincetown's most beautiful historic homes and buildings gives a glimpse of the town's quaint past. It wasn't always oil painting and sequins. These special spaces at Land's End have sheltered many a colorful character in their time.
Provincetown, MA, 508-487-1310;
www.pilgrim-monument.org
NEWPORT MANSIONS' WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL
September 24-26
The more you know about wine, the more you can enjoy your favorite bottles. Discover the area's best wineries, restaurants, caterers, and wine experts during a weekend of seminars, wine dinners, and one ultimate "Grand Tasting" in the elegant setting of the Newport Mansions.
Newport, RI. 401-847-1000
8TH ANNUAL GOREYFEST & ALPHABET AUCTION
October 2
For a piece of Cape Cod literary history, don't miss this annual live and silent auction at the Edward Gorey House Museum. An eclectic array of Gorey items are up for auction, along with unique dining, entertainment, and cultural packages.
Yarmouthport, MA. 508-362-3909;
www.edwardgoreyhouse.org
ANTIQUES FESTIVAL
October 2-3
Take a trip to Champlain Valley, one of New England's most beautiful destinations, while the autumn leaves are at their most colorful. And of course, pick up an antique or two while you're there.
Essex Junction, VT. 781-862-4039;
www.neantiqueshows.com
10TH ANNUAL WELLFLEET OYSTERFEST
October 16-17
Feast on Wellfleet's famous oysters and celebrate the Cape's shellfishing roots during a weekend of local cuisine, arts and crafts, kayak and road races, walking tours, cooking demonstrations, and live music. Be sure to catch the exciting oyster shuck-off, an annual highlight.
Wellfleet, MA. 508 349-3499;
www.wellfleetoysterfest.org
ANNUAL LIGHTING OF THE PILGRIM MONUMENT
November 26
This treasured Cape Cod tradition celebrates the Pilgrims' first landing in Provincetown. Nearly 5,000 lights illuminate the monument for a beautiful display. After the official lighting, the lights shine through New Year's Day.
Provincetown, MA. 508-487-1310;
www.pilgrim-monument.org
ANNUAL NANTUCKET FESTIVAL OF TREES
December Ongoing
Over 60 holiday trees decorated by area nonprofit organizations, artists, community members, and businesses are on brilliant display at the Nantucket Whaling Museum. A preview party celebrates the exhibition's opening.
Nantucket, MA. 508-228-1894;
www.nha.org
ANNUAL HYANNIS VILLAGE OF LIGHTS STROLL
December 4-5
A weekend of holiday festivities kicks off with the lighting of the town green, followed by special celebrations and activities throughout Main Street and along the harbor.
Hyannis, MA. 508-775-7778;
www.hyannis.com
HOLLY FOLLY December 3-5
This weekend in Provincetown is chock-full of events and happenings from toy drives to winter Galas and everything in between. You may have to sleep through Christmas after this weekend!
Provincetown, MA. 508-487-2313;
www.ptown.org
COUNTRY CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE
December 4-5
Step into the Thornton W. Burgess Society's Green Briar Jam Kitchen to indulge in a cup of mulled cider and a sampling of mouth-watering traditional holiday treats that have been made on the Cape for over a century.
East Sandwich, MA. 508-888-6870;
www.thorntonburgess.org
40TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE & STROLL
December 10
Osterville is all dressed up for the holidays during the Osterville Business & Professional Association's popular open house and stroll, a community celebration sure to stir your holiday spirit.
Osterville, MA. 508-428-6327;
www.ostervillevillageassociation.com
SFlbPlease call ahead to check that the event dates have not changed.
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