Mass Audubon

Family Dusk Paddles: Discovering Wetlands

Join us as we paddle through the winding backwaters at IRWS with the family

Explore the Ipswich River at dusk. Bring your family and join us for an evening paddle in a canoe as we learn more about the river and some of its inhabitants. Being on the water is one of the best ways to explore and discover the wonders of wetlands. We will paddle through the winding backwaters lined with cattails and other marsh plants, looking for hidden wildlife. Using buckets and strainers, we'll stop and sample the rich aquatic life to learn more about what lives under the water.

When: 
Friday, August 9, 2019 6-8 pm

Family Dusk Paddles: Owls on the Ipswich River

At ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary we'll look and listen for owls as we paddle

Explore the Ipswich River at dusk. Bring your family and join us for an evening paddle in a canoe as we learn more about the river and some of its inhabitants. Many kinds of owls "call in the night" with their hoots and screams as the sun begins to fade. As we paddle along, we'll look and listen for owls, talk about the types of owls we're likely to find at this time of year, and do some hooting ourselves.

When: 
Friday, July 26, 2019 6-8 pm

Family Adventure | The Edge of the Sea

Discover the natural beauty and varied beach to woodland habitats of Eastern Point with Mass Audubon

Join Mass Audubon as they explore the habitats of Eastern Point Wildlife Sanctuary in Gloucester. The cool breezes, superb coastline, and easily observed wildlife will delight your senses. We'll visit tide pools, salt marsh, woodlands, and adjoining fields using hands-on activities as we investigate each habitat.

When: 
Tuesday, July 23, 2019 9:30-11am

Back River Cruise

Cranes are just one of the types of shore birds that you'll see on this cruise

Lisa Hutchings Teacher-Naturalist from Mass Audubon's Joppa Flats Education Center and the crew of Newburyport Harbor Tours Inc.'s Yankee Clipper invite you and your family for an exciting exploration of the lower Merrimack River ecosystem. We'll practice hands-on science, use interactive propgs, and look for seabirds, seals, and waterfowl on every trip. Enjoy cruising and learning about this vital part of the area's natural history.

When: 
Saturday, June 20, 2019 8:45 am - 10:45 am

Family Dusk Paddles: River Mammals

Join us as we look for elusive river mammals at Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary. Photo: American Beaver ©Scott Santino

Explore the Ipswich River at dusk. Bring your family and join us for an evening paddle in a canoe as we learn more about the river and some of its inhabitants. Have you ever seen a muskrat swimming or a beaver slapping its tail in alarm? Join us as we look for these elusive mammals and discover some of the clues they leave behind as we make our way along the Ipswich River.

When: 
Friday, July 12, 2019 6-8pm

Seashore Adventures: Tide-Pooling Trek

Explore the rocks and tide pools of Chandler Hovey Park in Marblehead

Life on the rocky shore presents unique challenges and opportunities for marine species. Explore the rocks and tide pools of Chandler Hovey Park and take a closer look at crabs, sea stars, and other seashore creatures that have adapted to survive their continually changing environment.

When: 
Wednesday, June 26, 2019 11:30am-1pm

Family Dusk Paddles: Summer Solstice

Take a paddle on the Summer Solstice and explore the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary!

Explore the Ipswich River on the Summer Soltice! The longest day of the year is almost upon us, and what a fun way to start the summer! Join us for a paddle to observe nature from the river as we look for plants and animals that are equally excited for summer. This special paddle ends with s'mores around the fire and a solstice tale.

When: 
Friday, June 21, 2019 6-8:30pm

Strawberry Moon Family Night Hike

Hike Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary with oyur family under June's Strawberry Moon!

Local Native American tribes call the June full moon the Strawberry Moon because it heralds the time of year to pick wild strawberries. Spend an evening walking in the warm air, listen to the dusk bird songs turn to choruses of spring peepers, and try to catch a glimpse of our resident wildlife as spring ripens into summer. We'll enjoy some strawberries and chocolate as a sweet treat to end the night.

When: 
Friday, June 14, 2019 7-8:30pm

Deep-Sky Astronomy

Come to Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary and learn about the stars!

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary hosts a Springtime Stargazing Party! Hidden amongst the brighter stars of the night sky are the celestial jewels that one can only see with the assistance of a telescope and, to some extent, a good pair of binoculars. These are the deep-sky objects, which include variable stars, binary stars, star clusters, gaseous nebulae, galaxies, and more. In the indoor portion of this evening's program, we will review some of the many deep-sky objects of the spring constellations. Afterward, weather permitting, we'll step outside to view a small sampling of them using a large reflector telescope.

When: 
Saturday, March 30, 2019 7:30-9pm

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Appleton Farms in Ipswich Massachusetts offers farm-based Summer Programs for kids ages 5-15

Babson Farm Quarry Self-guided Walking Tour at Halibut Point

Kids will enjoy this tour of the Halibut Point State Park and Quarry with a focus on its stone-cutting history!
Take a self guided tour at one of Massachusetts most beautiful locations!
7:00 am to 6:00 pm

Saugus Iron Works Park Grounds & Estuary Walk

Take a hike along the Saugus River Estuary ande explore the Saugus Iron Works Park grounds in Massachusetts
Learn about the natural world in Saugus while ecploring the park ground ast the Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site in Massachusetts.
7:00 am to 7:00 pm

StoryWalk Series at Maudslay

“Magnificent Monarchs” by Linda Glaser Storywalk at Maudslay State Park in Newburyport Massachusetts
Enjoy this pre-school StoryWalk® at your leisure with the younger set and combine reading and time in nature! “Magnificent Monarchs” by Linda Glaser is featured in this StoryWalk Series. Younger kids will love this gentle, richly illustrated children’s nonfiction book aimed at preschool–third grade...
7:00 am to 8:00 pm

Maudslay in Bloom Self-Guided Walk

 Maudslay in Bloom self guided walk at Maudslay State Park in Newburyport Massachusetts.
Maudslay State Park in Newburyport, Massachusetts, offers a delightful self-guided walk that is perfect for families with children. The park's 480-acre expanse, once the Moseley Estate, is rich with historical charm and natural beauty. Families can embark on a self-guided tour through lush...
7:00 am to 7:00 pm

July 4th in Beverly Farms

West Beach Fireworks, Parades and More on July 4. Celebrate July 4th in Beverly Farms!
Beverly Farms has a lot going on for the 4th of July including cookouts, softball games, live music, a parade and, of course, fireworks! Come celebrate Independence Day filled with history and community tradition!
Where: West Beach
8:00 am to 10:00 pm

Amesbury Days Celebration

Amesbury Days is a celebration of the onset of Summer and community.
Amesbury Days is a a 8-day celebration of all things Amesbury that kicks off the summer with fun and exciting community events in Amesbury, Massachusetts. Fireworks, a block party and a 5k walk/run will be just some of the highlights of this years' Amesbury Days celebration. There will be events...
9:00 am to 9:00 pm

Marblehead Festival of the Arts

There's plenty to see and do for kids and families at the Marblehead Festival of the Arts in Massachusetts!
Marblehead, Massachusetts has a long-standing tradition of hosting an annual summer arts festival during the week of July 4th. This highly esteemed festival showcases a diverse range of artistic expressions that include: painting, drawing, sculpture, mixed media, printmaking, photography, crafts,...
9:00 am to 9:00 pm

Swan Boat Rides in Boston Public Garden

Swan Boat Boston North Shore Parent, North Shore Parents Summer Activities Guide
The Public Garden may be one of the most ideal picnicking locations in Boston. Well-groomed and overflowing with tulips, cherry-trees, with willows cascading over the duck pond, the Boston Public Garden is a great place to relax during Boston's most beautiful season.
10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Ipswich Independence Day Field Day

Ipswich's Independence Day Field Day at the Town Hall in Ipswich Massachusetts
Ipswich's Independence Day Field Day is a great way to celebrate community on this national holiday. Come to the Fun of Patriotic Games, Pomp and Circumstance!
10:00 am

Fireworks & Harbor Illumination in Marblehead

Marblehead Fireworks as seen from Chandler Hovey Park by Jeff Folger
Independence Day in Marblehead is a full-day affair along the picturesque harbor front. Start the day at 10 am with the Horribles Parade, a whimsical procession of unique and often creatively opinionated homemade floats, accompanied by lively music and other festive elements. As the day progresses...
10:00 am to 9:45 pm

July 4th Boat Parade in Essex

The Chebacco Boat Parade is a great Fourth of July tradition in Essex MA
The Chebacco Lake and Watershed Association will sponsor its annual Fourth of July Boat Parade on at 10am Sunday, July 4th.  All boats will meet at Gregory Island Cove on the South Side of Gregory Island (small cove) and proceed around the lake counterclockwise. Prizes will be awarded for Most...
10:00 am

Fourth of July Parade in Manchester

Fourth of July Parade in Manchester MA for North Shore Families
Manchester’s annual salute to America is a wonderful tradition, complete with stirring music, precision marching bands, imaginative home made floats, antique cars, and just about everything else that represents the pride and patriotism we all share for our country. Simply stated, Manchester’s...
10:00 am to 12:30 pm

Saugus Iron Works House Tours

Free Ranger guided tours of the Saugus Iron Works House in Massachusetts
Join National Park staff at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site for a 30-minute tour of The Iron Works House.
11:00 am

Marblehead Street Festival

There's plenty to see and do for kids at the Marblehead Street Festival! Part of the Marblehead Festival of the Arts
Come to the Marblehead Street Festival at Bank Square (intersection of Washington and Hooper Street).  This festival is a fun tradition that's part of 4th of July celebrations!  There will be something for everyone including magic, street performers, live music, face painting, sidewalk chalk art,...
11:00 am to 3:00 pm

Marblehead Lobster Lunch

Enjoy a lobster lunch on the lawn in Marblehead over July 4th Weekend!
St. Michael's holds its famous Lobster Luncheon during the Marblehead Festival of Arts over the Fourth of July weekend. All proceeds from the luncheon, after expenses, support local and global ministries. Tours of St. Michael's historic building and a free organ concert are typically offered during...
11:00 am to 3:00 pm

Salem Celebrates the Fourth of July

Salem Massachsuetts Celebrates the Fourth of July Independence Day Fireworks
Join the City of Salem at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site for a 4th of July Celebration! The evening includes live music by the Hillyer Festival Orchestra and Fireworks starting after dark from Derby Wharf.
12:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Waterfront Concerts @ Crocker Park in Marblehead

Marblehead Festival of Arts hosts live music performances throughout Fourth of July weekend at Crocker Park
The Marblehead Festival of the Arts hosts its  58th Performing Arts Program featuring 16 acts over 4 nights and 3 days. As always, we thank the Town of Marblehead for the opportunity to present our program in the beautiful natural concert venue that is Crocker Park and to you, for your generous...
12:00 pm to 10:30 pm

Saugus Iron Works Tours

Free Ranger guided tours at Saugus Iron Works Colonial Industrial Site in Massachusetts
Join the National Park staff at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site for a tour of the colonial industrial site. On select days, you may be able to stick around and witness pop-up molten iron pour, blacksmithing, waterwheel demonstrations, and take part in hands-on river stewardship activities.
2:00 pm

Amesbury Days Fireworks

Amesbury MA Amesbury Days Fireworks and Music
Amesbury Days fireworks display will be on July 4th beginning at around 9pm. Food vendors, favorites from years past and a couple of new ones added in for your enjoyment. Parking is available at Woodsom Farm or Amesbury High School.
5:30 pm to 10:00 pm

4th of July Celebration at Salisbury Beach

Fourth of July Fireworks at Salisbury Beach include a campfire and marshmallow roast on the beach.
Get ready for four fantastic days of family fun at Salisbury Beach! From patriotic pet parades and live music to Independence Day fireworks, here’s what’s in store:
6:00 pm to 11:00 pm

Independence Day Celebration in Rockport

Independence Day Celebration in Rockport 2022 includes a traditional parade, bandstand concert and massive bonfire.
Celebrate the 4th of July in Rockport, Massachusetts! Rockport’s Independence Day celebration is full of hometown charm and high-energy tradition—and this year promises to be unforgettable! Come experience an evening of patriotic fun featuring a festive parade, live music, and the town’s iconic...
6:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Friday Night Party at Salisbury Beach

Salisbury Beach Summer Beach Party every Friday through the Summer.
Get ready for family fun every Friday night all summer long at Salisbury Beach! Starting at 7:15 PM on the Salisbury Beach stage, enjoy a full evening of summer tunes and excitement. DJ Ralphie B will be spinning your favorite hits, while hosting kid-friendly activities that will keep everyone...
7:15 pm to 10:00 pm

Fireworks and Beach Concerts at Salisbury Beach

Fourth of July Fireworks at Salisbury Beach include a campfire and marshmallow roast on the beach.
Join us at Salisbury Beach for an unforgettable family night out! Every Saturday through the summer, enjoy spectacular fireworks (weather permitting) that light up the sky. Before the fireworks, there's a live concert starting at 7:30 PM on the Salisbury Oceanfront Stage, perfect for families with...
7:30 pm to 11:00 pm

Saturday, July 12

Swan Boat Rides in Boston Public Garden

Swan Boat Boston North Shore Parent, North Shore Parents Summer Activities Guide
The Public Garden may be one of the most ideal picnicking locations in Boston. Well-groomed and overflowing with tulips, cherry-trees, with willows cascading over the duck pond, the Boston Public Garden is a great place to relax during Boston's most beautiful season.
10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Long Hill Garden Tours

Tour the Gardens at the Trustees of Reservations Long Hill Gardens in Beverly, Massachusetts!
The Trustees of Reservations invite you to join our expert guides for a tour around Long Hill’s stunning Sedgwick Gardens and learn more about the special plants. Visit Long Hill’s breathtaking gardens and stately historic house for a guided tour. Enjoy the rich history of this grand country estate...
11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Saugus Iron Works House Tours

Free Ranger guided tours of the Saugus Iron Works House in Massachusetts
Join National Park staff at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site for a 30-minute tour of The Iron Works House.
11:00 am

Ipswich Greek Festival

Ipswich Greek Festival at the Hellenic Center in Ipswich Massachusetts
Come to Ipswich Massachusetts for the Annual Greek Festival: A 75-Year Tradition in Greater Boston and the North Shore! Experience one of the longest-running and most cherished traditions in Greater Boston, MA, and the North Shore area—the Greek Festival! For over 75 years, this event has been a...
12:00 pm to 6:00 pm

CraneOutdoors: Choate Island Kayak and Hiking Adventure

Take a guided kayak paddle and hike to Choate Island with the Trustees of Reservations!
Join The Trustees of Reservations for a paddle and a hike – what better way to spend an afternoon? Kayaking the pristine, sheltered waters of the Essex River Basin offers one of the top on-the-water experiences to be had in Northeast. Add to that a hike on the area’s largest island and you have the...
1:00 pm to 4:30 pm

Saugus Iron Works Tours

Free Ranger guided tours at Saugus Iron Works Colonial Industrial Site in Massachusetts
Join the National Park staff at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site for a tour of the colonial industrial site. On select days, you may be able to stick around and witness pop-up molten iron pour, blacksmithing, waterwheel demonstrations, and take part in hands-on river stewardship activities.
2:00 pm

Downtown Gloucester Block Party

Food, music, live entertainment, dance, craft and fun come together for a great
Main Street, Downtown Gloucester Massachusetts comes alive when the Street is closed off to allow live music, street performers, kid activities, non-profits, food vendors and more! Many of shops and businesses on Main Street will be open for business and will welcome partygoers. Other Gloucester...
6:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Fireworks and Beach Concerts at Salisbury Beach

Fourth of July Fireworks at Salisbury Beach include a campfire and marshmallow roast on the beach.
Join us at Salisbury Beach for an unforgettable family night out! Every Saturday through the summer, enjoy spectacular fireworks (weather permitting) that light up the sky. Before the fireworks, there's a live concert starting at 7:30 PM on the Salisbury Oceanfront Stage, perfect for families with...
7:30 pm to 11:00 pm

Sunday, July 13

Todd Farm Market

Come to Todd Farm on Sunday - A classic New England Fleas Market in Rowley Massachusetts!
From early Spring to late Fall, Todd Farm is a great Sunday destination for families!  Head to the farm and explore the outdoor award-winning Market featuring up to 240 vendors from all over New England and New York!
5:00 am to 3:00 pm

StoryWalk Series at Maudslay

“Magnificent Monarchs” by Linda Glaser Storywalk at Maudslay State Park in Newburyport Massachusetts
Enjoy this pre-school StoryWalk® at your leisure with the younger set and combine reading and time in nature! “Magnificent Monarchs” by Linda Glaser is featured in this StoryWalk Series. Younger kids will love this gentle, richly illustrated children’s nonfiction book aimed at preschool–third grade...
7:00 am to 8:00 pm
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