New England is steeped in history. This six-state region figures prominently in not only our nation’s beginnings but also entertainment. Now that summer is almost here, let’s briefly look at a few festival ideas taking place not all that far from home.
- Arts and Ideas International Festival. This New Haven, CT, festival incorporates numerous activities that highlight the arts. Artists from all around the globe come to dazzle spectators with theater, music, dance, and so much more! The festivities run from June 13-27, and many of the events are free! For additional info, access www.artidea.org.
- Lowell Folk Festival. This Lowell, MA, festival features three free days of music, dance, crafts, food, and fun! It is the largest of its kind in the nation. The gala officially began in 1990, but prior to that, the City of Lowell hosted the National Folk Festival for a few years. Seniors, children, and everyone in between, come to enjoy the talent and culinary delights in the transformed downtown streets! www.lowellfolkfestival.org provides all the info you need concerning this lively event.
- International Film Festival. This Waterville, ME, festivity takes place from July 10 to July 19. The event highlights some works produced by New England filmmakers, as well as the best of foreign and American Independent films. Individuals in the audience have an opportunity to meet with behind the scenes players. A question and answer session also takes place. For further information, call (207) 374-2811.
- Discover Jazz Festival. Okay, this one is actually going on now (June 5-14). The festivity takes place in Burlington, Vermont, and is comprised of ten jazzy days of delight. Some of the events are free. The celebrated saxophone player, Branford Marsalis, is performing on June 12. For more info about this musical extravaganza, call (802) 863-7992.
- Newport Waterfront Irish Festival (Rhode Island). This September 5-7 festival commemorates Celtic pride in a gorgeous waterfront setting. Music, food, entertainment, lively step-dancing, and comedy, all add up to a tremendous time for everyone! For additional information about this weekend enchantment, contact www.newportwaterfrontevents.com.
- New England Elvis Festival. Interested in a first? Manchester, NH, will be hosting its first Weekend with Elvis at the Radisson Hotel on Labor Day weekend (September 4-6). Elvis impersonators, contests, Elvis competitions, memorabilia sales, and dinners, are sure to please almost every Elvis enthusiast. For ticket information, call the Elvis Festival Ticket and Information Hotline at (518) 681-7452.
New England is rich in history, but it is also rich in activities. The above ideas represent only a small portion of the events taking place this summer. With money being tighter than usual, many individuals are planning to stay closer to home. For additional information concerning New England enjoyment, access www.explorenewengland.com.
