Colby Farm Sunflowers – End of Summer Fun!

What will you discover?

Visit the Sunflower Field & the Market!

The Colby Farm Sunflowers in Newbury, MA have become an annual end of summer tradition for many. Opening day for the 2026 sunflower season will kick-off on Thursday, August 27 at 10am. Colby Farm plans to stay open daily through Sunday September 6, where visitors can cut their own sunflowers as a closing day activity, as well as attend a special closing day party taking place at 4pm. The hours are from 9 am – 6 pm Monday – Saturday and from 10 am – 6 pm on Sundays. There is no event/ticket cost, simply a $10 cash only parking fee.

This cherished annual event is an amazing opportunity to experience the natural beauty of this wonderful family run farm. Make sure to visit the farmstand after your trip to the sunflower field. Pick up fresh vegetables locally grown by Colby Farm and explore the many exceptional locally sourced products available in the market. If you enjoy supporting local small businesses, you can feel great about any purchase you make at Colby Farm!

Colby Farm and its farm stand are located just a few minutes from downtown Newburyport at 50 Scotland Road in Newbury, MA. Here they sell many of their own freshly grown fruits and vegetables as well as locally sourced meats, dairy products, grains, and many wonderful sweet treats! The most important thing to know, is that Colby Farm is a leader amongst local farms, helping promote the importance of buying from local farms and other small business who work hard to provide top quality local consumables. Not only does Colby Farm sell many of their own products but they are an important supporter to other local small businesses who depend on Colby Farm to help provide awareness and generate sales for their locally made products.

In addition to the highly popular sunflower field and farmstand Colby Farm has tremendous experience in the hay business since 1960. Colby Farm harvests over 200 acres of hay annually and has become known as as a leading provider of quality hay for local farm animals.

Colby Farm is open from May, through December 24, when they sell Christmas trees, wreaths, baked goods and other seasonal items.

*Professional pictures courtesy of Jaimie Cuddire & Colby Farm

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The 2026 Newburyport Bed Race will take place on Thursday, July 30th at 6 pm on Federal Street. This action-packed event is hosted by the Newburyport Lion’s Club and is one of the most popular local traditions hosted each year during the annual Yankee Homecoming celebration.

The Newburyport Bed Race is undeniably one of the most highly anticipated family-friendly events of the summer. If you’re not from the local area, you might ask, “what is Newburyport Bed Racing?” Although the answer may differ depending on who you ask, the Newburyport.com answer is, “a cherished tradition and exciting community event that boldly showcases the creativity and teamwork of local businesses and organizations while providing tremendously valuable, expansive brand recognition for all participating teams as they race their uniquely designed, homemade beds for a packed crowd of enthusiastic fans.”

Scroll down to view NewburyportVIP Prior Year Bed Race Videos 2015 – 2024

When is Bed Racing? If you ask a loyal fan, they are likely to say, “the Bed Race is always Thursday night of Yankee Homecoming, just before the Beatlejuice concert.” Although that is an accurate statement, the Newburyport.com official answer is, “see ya Thursday night on Federal Street at 6 pm sharp.” Unless mother nature brings severe weather, the Newburyport Lion’s Club Bed Race kicks off at the same time and same place every year!

Although most bed racing teams strive to cross the finish line first, speed is not the only way to win the Newburyport Bed Race. Teams also compete to impress judges and spectators by designing and building elaborate bed racing structures complemented by impressively coordinated team costumes. The Bed Race is definitely not a traditional race. If by chance you are a runner who discovered this article as you were trying to register for a road race, check out the Yankee Homecoming Road Race hosted annually by the Newburyport Lions Club on Tuesday night of Yankee Homecoming week.

Both the Bed Race and the Road Race are major annual events that take place during Yankee Homecoming week but they are actually hosted by the Newburyport Lion’s Club, as opposed to the Yankee Homecoming Committee. Although the Lions Club and Yankee Homecoming are separate groups, these two wonderful local organizations do an excellent job of behind the scenes coordination making this only noticeable in their individual branding on thier signs and volunteer t-shirts. These organizations set the standard for community events with close collaboration and cross promotion helping to significantly increase exposure for the the many local businesses and nonprofits participating in these events. Newburyport.com is proud to volunteer our services and local media platform providing broader more expansive awareness of these wonderful local traditions through our video highlights, feature articles and NewburyportVIP social media channel.

If you’re interested in participating, the registration fee is $40 per bed with a reduced cost of $30 for nonprofits. Visit the Lion’s Club website for Bed Race details and registration form. All 2026 participating Bed Racing teams are eligible for FREE Yankee Homecoming Parade registration in the 2026 Yankee Homecoming Parade. Contact NBPTlionsbedrace@gmail.com with questions.

Proceeds from Lion’s Club events benefit the Newburyport Lions Club local charities: eye exams, glasses for the needy, annual Thanksgiving dinner, visual aids for the blind, high school scholarships and local food pantries.

RELATED EVENTS

The 2026 Beatlejuice concert starts at 7:30 pm on the Waterfront Stage. This is part of the Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Concert Series.

2026 BEER & BITES starts at 5:30 pm in the Newburyport Tannery parking lot.

If you want to grab a quick bite to eat before the start of the Bed Race, Newburyport.com recommends arriving early for the Newburyport Rotary Club annual Beer & Bites Fundraiser from 5:30 – 7:30 pm in the Tannery parking lot. Visit the Newburyport Events Calendar to view more details and download the free, Newburyport App for direct access to the calendar.

NewburyportVIP Prior Year Bed Race Videos 2015 – 2024

Are you ready for a day of outdoor fun, games, and entertainment? Get ready for Yankee Homecoming Olde Fashioned Sunday 2026! This year’s event will be held Sunday, July 26th from 10 AM to 3:30 PM. This is a classic Newburyport family event where children of all ages enjoy a fun and exciting array of activities. The setting for Yankee Homecoming Olde Fashioned Sunday is on Bartlet Mall, a picturesque area located at the intersection of Pond Street and High Street in Newburyport.

This event is an opportunity to kick off Yankee Homecoming week in Newburyport while making wonderful memories with family and friends. There are so many fun activities to enjoy. Yankee Homecoming Olde Fashioned Sunday begins with folks displaying their favorite pets on stage. There will be entertainers playing music and performing dances from the 1960s. This is a great opportunity for folks to wear clothing from the era, including bell-bottom pants and tie-dye shirts! For many families Olde Fashioned Sunday has become an annual tradition, along with Kids Day in the Park and Family Day.

Art on Bartlet Mall is another very popular event that takes place at the same time and location as Olde Fashioned Sunday. There will be regional artists displaying and selling their amazing original work on Bartlet Mall. You can enjoy Art on Bartlet Mall both Saturday, July 25th as well as Sunday, July 26th during Olde Fashioned Sunday. Art on Bartlet Mall runs from 10 AM – 4 PM each day.

Kids will love the free activities at the Family Midway event. Enjoy some old fashioned games as a family, such as the potato sack race and water balloon toss. Kids can take a pony ride, watch the pet show and enjoy train rides around the pond! There will also be a classic car display, swing dancing and many exciting competitions on the lower green. Events and activities are similar each year.

2026 Olde Fashioned Sunday Events Schedule

Roaming Railroad Rides & Pony Rides – 10:00am – 3:00pm
Down by the pond, make sure to take pictures of the kids’ smiling faces.

Midway Games – 10:00am – 4:00pm
Come enjoy some olde time fun and win prizes.

Vendor Row – 10:00am – 4:00pm
Enjoy some food, ice cream and activities

Pet Show sponsored by Bartlett’s Cove Pet Care – 10:30am
Registration at 10:00 visit Bartlett’s Cove Facebook page for more information

Antique and Classic Cars sponsored by Byfield Auto – 10:30am – 1:00pm
Step back in time and admire the classic stylings and muscle of years gone by, enjoy the vintage motorcycles too.

Beginners Cornhole Tournament sponsored by Reworld (cost $40 per team) – 11:00am
View registration information & check in at 10:30am

Opening Ceremonies and the Raising of the Flag – 11:30am
Main stage and the corner of High St and Pond St. The big start of the
week’s festivities.

Swing Dance lessons and entertainment- 12:30 – 1:30pm
Northshore swing dance will be teaching a lesson and North of Boston Swing Dance Society will also perform.

Music by Northshoremen Barbershop Chorus – 1:30 – 2:30pm
Enjoy some music from The Northshoremen Barbershop Chorus.

Family Fun Competition – 2:30pm – 3:30pm
Come enjoy some good olde fun, some friendly competition and win
some prizes too. Pre-register at volunteer table next to the Main stage 10am – 1pm.

Potato Sack Race
Hula Hoop
Water Balloon Toss

When you get hungry during Yankee Homecoming Olde Fashioned Sunday there will be plenty of vendors cooking up delicious snacks. There will also be old-fashioned candy and popcorn available for purchase. That’s right, there will be tasty candy and snacks. Enjoy the beginning of Yankee Homecoming week and all the fun events for people of all ages at Yankee Homecoming Olde Fashioned Sunday!

If you enjoy dining and shopping in our local community, you can support the Yankee Homecoming Fireworks by purchasing or renewing your Newburyport app and VIP Card. The VIP Program allows you to enjoy discounts at 130 restaurants and shops in the Greater Newburyport community and $10 of each purchase or renewal can be donated to the Yankee Homecoming Fireworks Fund.

If you don’t already have the Newburyport App, just type the word “Newburyport” in the App Store or Play Store or use the links below from your mobile device.

Apple/App Store: Download “Newburyport” for iOS/Apple

Android/Play Store: Download “Newburyport” for Android/Google

Local kids will take to the stage to show off their skills at the 2026 Yankee Homecoming Kids Talent Show on Monday, July 27th 2026 from 11 am to 1 pm at the Newburyport waterfront stage located in Market Landing Park. Grab your blankets and lawn chairs and help show your support for kids in our community.

From music to dance to poetry to magic, kids of all ages, ranging from grades 1 all the way through 12, are invited to register and perform their talents, whatever they may be, for a live audience on the Newburyport Waterfront. The Yankee Homecoming Kids Talent Show is a non-competitive performance designed to showcase all of the wonderful kids and rising stars that live right here in Newburyport and surrounding towns.

It’s so important to host the kids talent show so that we can involve people of all ages in Yankee Homecoming. With kids getting involved at a young age, they are more likely to participate in future Yankee Homecoming celebrations and perhaps one day even volunteer for the event,” says Lorraine Mazza, the 2019 Kids Talent Show Chair.

To register, the performers must submit the registration form and be accompanied by an adult if they are under the age of 16. There is no fee to register. While day-of-event-performers talent may be allowed to join the show, it is dependent on space and not guaranteed.

Newburyport’s Yankee Homecoming celebration lasts an entire week, beginning Saturday, July 25th and ending with the annual parade on Sunday, August 2nd. To find even more ways to join in the celebrations, check out all of the events listed on our calendar.

The 2026 annual Yankee Homecoming Parade will march down High Street on Sunday, August 2nd at 12 PM, marking the final official event of Newburyport’s week-long celebration. The parade, which will cover a little over a mile, begins at the intersection of Moseley Avenue and Ferry Road and end at State Street.

Along with tons of fire trucks, police cruisers, motorcycles, and vintage cars, spectators will also enjoy floats from local businesses, musical performances, a juggler on a unicycle, and Chinese dragon dancers. Many participants in the Yankee Homecoming Parade also throw candy and other swag to children along the way.

The Yankee Homecoming 2026 theme is “Home Sweet Home,” celebrating how Newburyport is more than just a destination, but a place where memories are made, friendships are renewed, and generations gather together. Many floats and performances will represent this theme in the Yankee Homecoming Parade. Newburyport has been celebrating Yankee Homecoming every year since 1958 and although other cities and towns also host Yankee Homecoming festivities, Newburyport is the oldest and longest running continuous Yankee Homecoming in the country.

If you’re thinking about joining in the parade instead of watching from the sidelines, there is no fee if your float follows the theme. Nonprofit organizations may also join the Yankee Homecoming Parade free of charge. Businesses that would like to participate outside of the theme must pay an advertising fee. All registrations can be done online.

For locals and tourists that would like to enjoy watching the Yankee Homecoming Parade, it’s best to arrive early to find a spot on either side of High Street. Space fills up quickly and many locals even set up chairs days in advance to claim a larger area for groups.

The Yankee Homecoming Parade is a $15,000 operation, making it the second most expensive event of the week, after the Yankee Homecoming fireworks display.

Newburyport’s Yankee Homecoming celebration lasts an entire week, beginning July 25th and ending with the annual Yankee Coming Parade. Find even more ways to join the celebration by visiting the Newburyport Events Calendar.

Video of 2018 Parade

Mark your calendar for Kids Day in the Park 2026, scheduled for Wednesday, July 29th from 10 am – 2 pm in Atkinson Common Park. Kids Day is a popular family event hosted each year during Yankee Homecoming week by the Exchange Club of Greater Newburyport. This free event is one of the highlights of Yankee Homecoming week for many kids, featuring all the best stuff from childhood. Kids Day in the Park in an opportunity to create lifelong memories with your children. For many families this event has become an annual tradition, along with Olde Fashioned Sunday and Family Day.

Kids Day in the Park starts with a parade for decorated bikes and doll carriages, with prizes for the best ones! After that, kids can get their faces painted by volunteers, experience Theater in the Open – featuring the famous giraffe! – relax with a story organized by the Newburyport Public Library, and watch a police department K9 demonstration. Kids Day in the Park also lets youngsters see what it feels like behind the wheel in official vehicles from the city public safety departments such as: fire, police and department of public works. There’s also food: an assortment of burgers and dogs and drinks starting at noon. Best of all, it’s all free!

Kids Day in the Park is hosted by the Newburyport Exchange Club, a service organization that has existed since 1976 and focuses on four service areas: youth services, preventing child abuse, honoring America and community service. Kids Day in the Park has been organized as part of the Yankee Homecoming events since 2005, and Exchange Club members enjoy working with other community organizations to make this special day lots of fun and free for families.

Amesbury Days Summertime Community Traditions

Good Old Fashion Fun Since 1899

Amesbury Days Events, Massachusetts Summertime Traditions

Summer Memories in Amesbury

This year’s Amesbury Days festivities will take place from June 25, through July 4, 2026, with multiple exciting events each day. The current summertime tradition is passed down from a town festival in 1899 that manifested as a one day outing for the town’s mill workers. However, this popular and well-loved town tradition has now evolved into a multi-day, multi-event celebration for everyone, ending on the Fourth of July.

Ten days long, Amesbury Days boasts many different events spanning from the family friendly Pancakes at the Pines, to the 21+ Brewfest, with any range of community-based celebrations in between. These events culminate in a lively firework show on the Fourth of July, complete with live music and food vendors. For information about specific events, you can visit the Newburyport Events Calendar to learn more about the details of the impressive happenings that Amesbury Days features.

Amesbury Days successfully brings together the community in celebration, while also attracting visitors from nearby towns and cities, much like Newburyport’s own Yankee Homecoming in August does. These town traditions offer an exciting look into both communities.

Amesbury and Newburyport’s festivities also have in common the significant contribution of volunteers to make the events possible: a non-profit organization, Amesbury Days is brought to fruition by the hard work of their 100% volunteer workers, who put in the effort all year round to help deliver these affordable and exciting events to the community every summer. It is thanks to the effort of these volunteers that Amesbury is bursting with lively music, food, and fun all to enjoy.

If you are interested in helping out with Amesbury Days events, you can also become a volunteer, or if you are just looking for more information about these festivities in order to enjoy them with the community, you can visit the Amesbury Days website to learn more.

Newburyport.com Correspondent, Lilly Baumfeld

Amesbury Days 2026

Various Locations
Amesbury, MA
Contact with Questions
AmesburyDaysWebsite@gmail.com

June 25th – July 4th

View Event Details
Events Calendar

Thursday 6/25
10-1 Kids Day at the Park – Town Park
5-8 Chamber Block Party – Heritage Park

Friday 6/26
5:30-8:30 Brewfest 21+ – McInnis Parking Lot

Saturday 6/27
8-3 Citywide Yard Sale/Sidewalk Sales
10-12 Poets Popsicle Party @Whittier Home
10-2 Amesbury Treasures
10-3 Colonial Past @Macy Colby House
12-4 Exhibit @Amesbury Cultural Center
1-5 2nd Anniv. Party @Riseilience
1-5 Firefighters Local 1783 Fundraiser @Bare Wolf
6-9 Driving Through History Roaring Gala

Sunday 6/28
8-11 Pancakes at the Pines
10-12 5K & 1 Mile Run/Walk
10-3 Colonial Blast from the Past
12-4 Lasting Impressions Exhibit
1-3 Amesbury Pride Event
1-3 Railroad Histotry on the Riverwalk

Monday 6/29
11-1 Employee Appr’n. Lunch
6-7 Line Dancing
7-8:30 Studio Two Beatles Tribute Band

Tuesday 6/30
5-8 Cruise Night
5:30-7:30 Kids Night in the Millyard

Wednesday 7/1
12-5 Family Day
4 Signup Game of Skate Night

Thursday 7/2
6-8 Summer Series Live Music
8-10 Comedy Night

Friday 7/3
8-6 Cherry Festival
10 Outdoors Lake Gardner Paddle

Volunteer to help with Amesbury Days!

Things to Do

Check out Things to Do in Newburyport: Attractions, Entertainment, Family Activities, Historic Tours, Shopping, Restaurants and much more!

Sandy Point State Reservation: Tips to Plan Your Trip

Sandy Point State Reservation, located at the southern point of Plum Island, offers beautiful views, a protected cove with calm waters, and an escape from overcrowded beaches. While Sandy Point

Newburyport Haunted House – Visit 13 Tilton Street if You Dare!

Have you seen the 2024 Newburyport Haunted House? Although there are others….many say that the home of Bruce Page is without question one of the top scary homes North of

Waterfront Park

Newburyport Waterfront Park is positioned in the center of downtown Newburyport, Massachusetts.A perfect green space, Waterfront Park has a great boardwalk that runs along the Merrimack River and plenty of benches to stop and enjoy the waterfront views and boating activity.

Downtown Trick or Treat is an exciting annual event that transforms the city of Newburyport into a Halloween wonderland. From 4 to 5 pm on Friday, October 24th, 2025, the streets will come alive with the laughter of children dressed in a creative array of costumes. Local business owners put in extra effort to make the evening special, some decorating their storefronts with spooky decorations and many wearing Halloween costumes and attire to join in the fun. This is a night when the whole community comes together, proud to collectively create lasting memories from this timeless tradition. Newburyport is also host to a couple of additional trick or treat events hosted by the City of Newburyport. Find details in the lower part of this article or check the Newburyport Events Calendar for a an extensive summary of events in Newburyport and surrounding towns.

The anticipation of downtown trick or treat is about more than just candy. This pre-Halloween event gives kids a chance to run into friends and proudly showcase their costume before the big night! You’ll see tiny ghosts, enchanting fairies, and even the latest trending characters from popular movies and television series. The streets are a kaleidoscope of colors, fabrics, and masks, each revealing the unique personalities of those beneath the costumes. Parents often join in the fun, either by wearing costumes or participating in themed ensembles with their children. It’s a heartwarming sight to witness, as entire families embrace the spirit of Halloween, a holiday that celebrates togetherness, creative imagination, and the thrill of the unknown.

The allure of Downtown Trick or Treat is undeniable, so make sure to arrive early. The event lasts for just one hour, from 4 to 5 pm, making it all the more cherished and exciting. Families are encouraged to allow for adequate time to find parking and to consider enjoying a delicious meal at one of Newburyport’s amazing family friendly restaurants after the event.

Newburyport’s Downtown Trick or Treat is more than just a Halloween event; it’s a tradition that binds the community, celebrating the essence of the season, creativity, and the joy of childhood. So, mark your calendars to be part of the excitement that transforms Newburyport’s downtown into a spooktacular wonderland. It’s an event that promises to create cherished memories for families and leave visitors with a lasting impression of the warm and welcoming spirit of our picturesque coastal community.

As always, the official Newburyport Trick or Treat will take place on Halloween, Friday October 31st from 5:30 – 7:30 pm. There are many additional Halloween events for kids as well as adults hosted throughout the community. Make sure to download the Newburyport App, and select Events Calendar to easily view local events throughout the community.

Newburyport Trick or Treat Summary:
Downtown Trick or Treat: Friday, 10/24 from 4 – 5 pm
Official Trick or Treat: Friday, October 31st from 5:30 – 7:30 pm

NewburyportVIP Downtown Trick or Treat Video – 2018

NewburyportVIP Downtown Trick or Treat Slideshow

The 2025 annual NEF Lighthouse Auction will be held on Saturday, November 8th from 6 – 9:30 pm at Newburyport City Hall. The most important fundraiser of the year for the Newburyport public schools, the NEF Auction consistently raises over $100,000 allocated to supporting critical learning initiatives throughout the Newburyport educational system and in 2024 exceeded $150,000. Live Auction guests are invited to arrive at 6 pm to enjoy cocktails, tasty bites and live music by, Better Things Band and bidding on 20 exclusive items will begin at 8 pm. Please note that the auction event bar will accept chash and Venmo only.

The success of this community-wide fundraiser can be attributed to its broad participation from a huge quantity of individuals and businesses. Always an exciting evening, the NEF Auction is made possible by the collective effort of many volunteers who generously donated their time, services. The NEF invites everyone be join in this critical community wide effort, “Bid for the Kids.”

The NEF Auction is really a wonderful opportunity to Shop Local! Auction items are donated mostly by local businesses and individuals passionate about supporting our local schools. The NEF Lighthouse Auction features an amazing selection of over 200 silent auction items, whether your looking to treat yourself to something special or need a unique gift, we highly recommend familiarizing yourself with the auction items. Online bidding for the silent auction opens at 6 pm on November 1st and closes on November 8th at 8 pm.

If you’re planning to attend the live auction make sure to purchase live auction tickets in advance. The Lighthouse Auction will be hosting a large silent auction that both party attendees, as well as those that can not make the actual event, can bid online.

Did they say VIP….Support Local and kick off the 2025 NEF Lighthouse Auction as an NEF VIP! Purchase a VIP Package which includes: one ticket to the live auction, one exclusive NEF wine glass, a Farm+Sea candle, a split of wine, a speciality olive oil or vinegar from Affamata, two drink vouchers, an assortment of Swiss chocolates and one raffle ticket for the MK Benatti Shopping Spree.

Local jeweler and exceptionally generous NEF Auction Sponsor, M.K. Benatti will once again be host a raffle drawing for a shopping spree at their downtown store. The first prize winner will be treated to a $3,500 shopping spree, with second and third prize winners getting $1,000 and $500 to shop for their jewels. M.K. Benatti raffle tickets can be purchased online. The drawing will be held at 5 pm on Sunday, November 9th at M.K. Benatti and winners will be notified after the drawing.

The Newburyport Education Foundation is a non-profit organization created to offset the financial pressures put on the Newburyport School System. These pressures include rising operating costs because of government mandates, technology needs and rising special education costs.

Please enjoy some of our photos and videos from prior years live auction events.

Circus Smirkus, The 2025 Big Top Tour: Game On! will be hosted during The 2025 Yankee Homecoming Festival. Get your tickets for the Circus Smirkus Big Top Tour, in Newbury, MA. There will be four shows: Friday, August 1st at 2:00 and 7:00 pm and Saturday, August 2nd at 1:00 and 6:00 pm. This exciting event is held under the big top at Spencer Peirce Little Farm and is the largest annual fundraiser supporting Theater in the Open. Don’t miss this amazing performance! The talent of these young performers is exceptional, and the storyline is fun and entertaining for both kids and adults.

Every summer, Circus Smirkus kids ages 10 to 18, go on the road preforming 70 shows in 7 weeks, for sell-out crowds in a 750 seat European-style one-ring big top tent. It is amazing to watch the determination, dedication and passion of these kids. Although they all work very hard to achieve their ambitious goals, it is apparent that they are loving every minute of what they do, and developing strong friendships and team building skills that will carry them far in life.

Each year brings a new Circus Smirkus storyline and original full-length show combining the best in traditional and contemporary circus styles. Come experience this highly anticipated big top show. The hilarious clowns are guaranteed to keep you laughing, and you’ll be in awe of the astonishing aerialists, wondrous wirewalkers, mystifying magicians, and jovial jugglers. Make sure to purchase tickets early as many shows do sell out.

Circus Smirkus performances run 2 hours in length including the intermission. There is plenty of seating for Circus Smirkus, but tickets do not have assigned seat numbers so we recommend showing up at least 30-45 minutes prior to the show, especially if you are a large group looking to sit together. At the end of the show you may want to account for an extra 10 – 15 minutes, as there is opportunity to meet the stars and even get a few autographs.

Ticket Prices:
Adults (13+): $40
Child (2-12): $25
There is an online service fee per ticket.
All sales are final – no refunds

Circus Smirkus is a 501(c)3 Nonprofit Organization helping youth engage in life changing adventures while promoting the circus arts. If you would like to support Circus Smirkus efforts there are many ways you can help all of which are greatly appreciated.

Theater in the Open has been a vital part of the Northshore’s cultural landscape since 1979 bringing theater performances to the public, at no cost, in the beauty of Maudslay State Park and connecting children with art and nature through our beloved youth arts education programs. Please consider supporting Theater in the Open and helping to strengthen the local arts for young aspiring actors in Greater Newburyport.

Have you been to Nunan’s lately? Last year, we proudly opened Kallie’s Kones, a full-service ice cream parlor, and Garden Golf, a premier 18-hole, beautifully landscaped mini golf course. Our General Manager and Co-Owner Stephen Flynn, Jr. came up with the idea of building a miniature golf course to our property after seeing a rise in agritourism—a term that simply means an activity or attraction that brings visitors to a farm. Wanting to venture away from corn mazes, Stephen began planning for a miniature golf course. Construction began shortly after, and on July 29, 2016, Nunan’s Garden Golf celebrated its grand opening with a weekend of miniature golf, hot dogs, and ice cream!

Nunan’s Garden Golf is in the quaint town of Georgetown, MA, surrounded by our growing greenhouses,and a full-scale garden center, flower shop, and landscape company set on our 22+ acre lot. It’s not your run-of-the-mill mini golf course, as Garden Golf boasts no windmills or dinosaurs. Instead, our 18-hole course is set amongst a beautiful botanical garden that has some of the most alluring and unique annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees that grow in the northeast. The course takes you over bridges, through water hazards, by an 18’ waterfall and many other obstacles that make it a fun and challenging experience for the entire family! Throughout the garden, each plant has an identification label and our scorecards are designed with a “Plant Wish List” on the back of it so that you can write down what you like. After your game of golf, you can walk through our beautiful blooming front displays to our ice cream parlor and enjoy a Richardson’s ice cream as you shop for the plants on your wish list.

Now, Nunan’s Garden Golf has opened its doors to new opportunities within the community by offering a number of different programs, including youth programs and field trips, private events such as birthday parties, fundraisers, and corporate events. Garden Golf and Kallie’s Kones have already hosted a number of birthday parties and they’re a huge hit!

Hosting a corporate event for your business? Try something new and host a mini golf tournament for your employees. Many companies have standard golf tournaments, but the problem with that is not everyone plays golf and it takes an entire day. Mini golf is comparatively shorter, sweeter, and easier to play! With a Nunan’s Garden Golf corporate event, you can bring everyone together for a fun-filled day. Mini golf is a great outing activity for your employees—it helps improve communication amongst coworkers, helps employees get to know each other better, celebrate company achievements, show appreciation, energize your team, and boost morale. At Nunan’s, you can rent the entire area to play mini golf, bring in food or have it delivered, play music, or host family games, company awards, and presentations.

The annual Topsfield Fair is a cherished tradition for many local North Shore families and for fair goers who travel far distances to be part of this amazing fall event packed with activities and fun Things to Do. The 2023 Topsfield Fair runs from September 29th through October 9th with hundreds of vendors, rides, animals, shows, and special entertainment. Known as America’s oldest county fair, nearly half a million people flock to the festivities each year to enjoy a combination of traditional agricultural exhibits with classic fair fun.

Opened daily over ten days, the Topsfield Fair features a Midway section filled with rides, food, and games. Thrill-seekers can whirl and twirl Topsfield Fair, County Fair, Topsfield, MA on fast-paced rides while families with younger children can hit the kiddie section filled with pint-sized entertainment like small merry-go-rounds and driving cars. The Midway is also home to classic carnival games. Rides and games are not included in admission. You can purchase ride packs in advance for a discount or just pay as you go at the fair.

Fair-goers should also be sure to bring their appetites because the food vendors—situated in the Midway—will not disappoint. Topsfield Fair has everything from sandwiches to desserts, and many unique treats with a county fair twist. Try out some chocolate covered bacon, sample fried kool-aide, or indulge in some farm-fresh apple crisp.

Topsfield Fair, County Fair Topsfield, MA The Topsfield Fair was founded by the Essex County Agriculture Society back in 1818 so it comes as no surprise that farming and animals are a major part of this county fair. Visit with tiny piglets, sheep with their lambs, and other farm animals at the Farmyard tent and stop into the multiple barns throughout the fairgrounds that house cattle, goats, rabbits, chickens, and more. There is even a beekeeping exhibit with observation hives to watch the bees in action. Along with live animals, visitors can also shop fresh produce from local farmers and goods made by local artisans.

Perhaps one of the most famous exhibits at the Topsfield Fair is the All New England Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off—which is exactly what it sounds like. Farmers from all over compete to earn the title of the heaviest pumpkin and fair visitors get to check out these massive fruits on display. All pumpkins must weigh a minimum of 300 Lbs to enter and the heaviest to date weighed in at a whopping 1,689 Lbs!

Before planning out your day make sure to take a look at the Topsfield Fair daily calendar which is packed with live entertainment ranging from live musical performances to a demolition derby. There are also live events that go back to this county fair’s agricultural roots like an old fashion tractor pull and sheepdog trials. And if you plan on spending the whole day at the fair, stick around for the fairground parade scheduled for Tuesday, October 3rd from 5 – 6 pm.

Topsfield Fair Tickets:

Tickets to the Topsfield Fair, along with ride tickets and food vouchers, can be purchased online in advance at a discounted rate. Children under 8 are always free. All pictures used in this article are from the Topsfield Fair facebook page.

Summer programs at the Clark School, offer North Shore kids an opportunity to build their own adventures with a mix of traditional summer activities and exciting field trips. Open to kids entering kindergarten through 8th grade, Summer at the Clark School was founded on traditional summer activities but is continuously providing opportunities for exploration of exciting new offerings. Enjoy your favorite hobbies and try something new; play classic games, learn to build a fire, and get creative with cool arts & crafts projects. Explore new horizons with dramatic arts, virtual reality, and 3D printing and more. If your looking for top north shore summer programs, check out the 2023 Summer @ Clark schedule below for specific theme weeks.

Why is the Clark Schools a great option for Summer Activities?

Part of each day at the Clark School summer programs will be focused on that week’s theme and, for the rest of the day, kids are given a selection of activities and even some free time to ride bikes and to engage in another choice hobbies. All activities are optional, and there is more than one choice for each block of the day, offering something for everyone!

Clark School Weekly Summer Program Themes

Week 1: Enchanted Forest – June 20 – 23

This week will take us on a journey of local nature and wildlife experiences. Kids will experience nature hikes at local sanctuaries and parks and will have the option to canoe/kayak on local waterways. On campus games will also reflect our Enchanted Forest Theme as counselors will engage the kids in active play! A number of sensory and crafting activities will be offered throughout the week to participants as their imaginations will inspire whimsical creations of nature crowns, fairy concoctions, miniature gnome tree houses and magic wands . . . just to name a few! Join us for an enchanted week of experiences!

Week 2: Fashion & Design – June 26 – 30

This week will be all about the kids using creativity to create fashion and design! From t-shirt and tye-dye creations and access to poseable mannequins for full ensemble design to pinewood derby mini cars and mini sailboat construction, kids will have the opportunity to showcase and put their finished creations to the test! Field trips to local design studios and art museums are expected, while active campus games will reflect our Fashion & Design themed week! Join us for a fashionably designed week of fun!

Week 3: Time Travel Through History OR Photography Week – July 10-14

This week kids will explore pastimes of history through games, crafts, food and field trips! Trivia and Jeopardy style challenges will be presented to test your knowledge from the early 2000s, 90s, 80s, 70s, 60s and beyond! Kids will have the option to get into character and perform a song or historical scene of the past through their own historical interpretations and improvisation. Trips to local landmarks will enlighten and remind us of what past lives had experienced! Join us as we travel back in time and discover fun!

Week 3: Photography

The Summer at Clark Photography Week is designed to help young photographers at any level improve their skills. Students are required to bring their own digital camera. This can be a phone camera or their own DSLR. iPads or laptops are encouraged for editing so the photographers can store their images and bring them home, though Macs are provided for those that would rather use them. Images will then be uploaded to Google Drive for sharing with family and friends. Half of the time we will be off campus visiting some of the more picturesque locations on the North Shore such as the Crane Estate, Maudslay Parkland locations along our shores. Photographers should come with appropriate footwear for hiking in the woods as well as scampering across shoreline rocks.

Week 4: Water World OR Art Week: July 17-21

This week kids will experience the joys of water fun! From on campus balloon toss games to slip and slides to off campus field trips to local beaches, ponds and paddle boarding adventures; expect a week of wet! Kids will face water challenges through team building games and activities. All crafting activity stations will be inspired by water as kids will figure out how to best manipulate the power of H2O. Join us for a soaking fun time!

Week 4: Art with Jeph Ellis

The Summer at Clark Art Week will engage and entertain your young artists. Each day we will be working on a different project to take home. Lessons will include basic drawing skills and color theory as well as how to create thinking out-of-the-box abstract imagery. We will work with two dimensional mediums, like painting and drawing as well as three dimensional ones. All materials will be provided, however should your artist wish to bring their own materials that they love to use, they are welcome to do so as well.

Week 5: Color War Olympics OR Robotics & Tech Week – July 24-28

Get ready for bright colors, teamwork and Olympic style challenges as kids strive to earn Bronze, Silver and Gold! Kids this week will be placed in teams and compete against each other in athletic and non-athletic challenges. The color war atmosphere stresses spirit, sportsmanship and camaraderie! Join us this week and let your competitive spirit shine!

Week 6: Community Service OR Robotics & Tech Week Week – August 31- September 4

Kids this week will gain an understanding of local community needs and services and will then be tasked with physically assisting local organizations such as donation centers and food pantries. Crafting activities will have a purpose of helping those in need with physical items and time will be allocated for kids to use their artistic creativity to create awareness for local services, organizations and initiatives! Join us this week and help make a difference in your local community!

Week 7: Talent Showcase OR Robotics & Tech Week – August 7-11

Description goes Kids this week will be planning and preparing for an end of the week talent show performance. Kids will also be introduced to other local performers and talents throughout the week to help inspire and guide their performances. Join us this week for a week of entertainment!

Weeks 5, 6 & 7: Robotics & Tech

Develop, design and play! Our Tech program allows kids a hands-on experience and introduction to Scratch (an educational tool for programming), Makey Makey (a coding and commands connector), Minecraft, Virtual Reality and more! Come tinker and develop your tech skills in our very own technology lab! If your kid enjoys all things tech, computer and gaming this the summer program for them!

Registration & Cost:

The cost for Clark School Summer Programs is $325 per person, per week, which includes all activities and fees. Extended Care and Tutoring are offered at an additional cost. Full payment is due via PayPal upon registration and it is recommended to complete the registration on a computer or full tablet (not a smart phone.) Register for summer fun at the Clark School Summer Programs!

Summer Programs Director, Anthony Wijeyesinghe will be happy to answer questions. He can be reached at (978) 777-4699 or by email at summer@clarkschool.com.

Community Theater in the Open

Dynamic Youth Arts & Educational Programming

Youth Arts Collaboration

Theater in the Open

Theater in the Open is dedicated to bringing creative and innovative community theater to the cultural landscape of Greater Newburyport. They stage high-quality original productions each year for the enjoyment of the community and they are dedicated to theater that is free and open to everyone! Theater in the Open is headquartered at Maudslay State Park and they offer youth arts education programs in addition to the free outdoor performances for the community.

Theater in the Open has been bringing theater performances to the public since 1979 when Anna (Clopton) Smulowitz launched the Newburyport Children’s Theater & Arts Education Program. They have also been central to the local arts scene on the North Shore. Throughout their history, the organization has been deeply involved in youth arts education. They provide wonderful opportunities for young people to express themselves and develop skills in theater, dance and visual arts. Theater in the Open hosts workshops that foster constructive, positive, creative experiences for young people. Their highly respected Summer Arts Workshops, provide programming for children aged 5 to 17, offering kids a range of enriching creative opportunities.

In 2017, Theater in the Open was selected by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to be the Curator of the Maudslay Gatekeepers’s House. This means that for the next 20 years, Theater in the Open will remain in Maudslay State Park and continue their incredible performances and dynamic youth arts education programming.

Theater in the Open brings the Circus Smirkus Big Top Tour to the community each year. This is the biggest fundraising event of the year in support of Theater in the Open. Circus Smirkus is an original full-length show held under a European-style one-ring big top tent at Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm.

Discover Theater in the Open’s quality performances. Simply bring a picnic blanket to Maudslay State Park to watch the creativity of this talented community theater company on display!

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Theater in the Open
1 Spring Lane
Newburyport, MA 01950
info@theaterintheopen.org

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Nature School Learning Programs

Land & Sea Nature Exploration in Newburyport’s Outdoor Classroom

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Strong Kids, Healthy Planet.

Part of the Merrohawke Nature School, Outdoor Boating Programs focus on Building Outdoor Appreciation Through Curiosity and Maritime Programs.

Led by Erica Lee and Captain George, this week-long program connects kids with nature through maritime education and activities.

Departing each day from Newburyport or Plum Island Point, Merrohawke Nature School students travel by water to explore the coastal ecology of Ipswich Bay and the Gulf of Maine.

On past trips, students have spotted dolphins, gannets, bluefish and mackerels, with no two days ever the same.

The experience continues as students haul lobster traps, collect and examine sea life and fish off the Isles of Shoals.

From marine biology, coastal ecology and oceanography to maritime history and navigation, during the course of this two-week Boat and Nature Program, kids will gain plenty of knowledge and memories.

The lead educators and captains have decades of experience taking children out on the water, and guiding them in nature, with a mission to, “Provide meaningful education outdoors along the Merrimack River Watershed and nearby coastal waters to inspire a lifelong connection to land and sea.”

In addition to Boating Programs, the Merrohawke Nature School also offers Forest Kindergarten and Teen Wilderness Programs.

If you’re interested in supporting this nonprofit education organization, please read more about donating here.

*Pictures from the Merrohawke Nature School Photo Galleries Aboard the Erica Lee & Captain George.

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Merrohawke Nature School

PO Box 235, 54R Merrimac Street

Newburyport, MA 01950

978.463.2233

explore@merrohawke.org

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The Hellcat Boardwalk Trail Trail, often referred to as the Hellcat Interpretative Trail for its planked pathway, is located in Plum Island’s Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. The trail, which is handicap accessible and appropriate for kids and adults alike, offers a guided experience and breathtaking views.

The 1.4 miles long Hellcat Trail is divided into two different paths on either side of the road that runs through the refuge— a 0.6 mile Dunes Trail and an 0.8 mile Marsh Trail. Each section features lookout points and interpretive stations along the way to learn fun facts about the refuge and habitats. Visitors can choose to do just one of the paths or the entire loop. To reduce disturbance to wildlife all hikers must stay on the boardwalk at all times. Maps are available online and at the ranger station when you enter the refuge.

The Hellcat Interpretative Trail was originally built in the 1970s by high school students in the Youth Conservation Corps but recently got a Hellcat Interpretative Trail Parker River Boardwalk Trail, Plum Island, MA big upgrade in the fall of 2020. The wooded boardwalk was replaced with synthetic plastic planks and widened to make it more accessible. Along with upgrades to the Hellcat Trail, The Marsh and Dune loops, which were previously two separate paths, are now connected with a new portion of the trail.

Ready to head out on a hike to the Hellcat Boardwalk Trail? Here’s what you need to know before you go. All visitors must pay $5 per car to enter the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, unless they have an annual parking pass. Once on the refuge, the Hellcat Boardwalk Trail is about 3.5 miles from the entrance and closest in vicinity to parking lot 4 (the same lot you would also find the lookout tower from). And while your pup may love a good hike, you need to leave all four-legged family members at home—pets are not allowed anywhere on the refuge.

The Hellcat Trail is open year-round but make sure to keep tabs on when the greenheads arrive in mid-July. These pesky horseflies are prevalent on Plum Island and make for a less than ideal hike. Another environmental factor to keep an eye out for is poison ivy, which is present on parts of the trail. When possible wear pants and a long shirt to protect yourself. If you’re hoping to cool off with a swim after your hike, be aware there is no beach access available from the Hellcat Trail. You will have to exit the trail and walk or drive to a parking lot that offers beach access.

We’re lucky to live in an area with more than its fair share of wonderfully designed and maintained playgrounds, including one rated top ten in the state! From relatively small but centrally located urban parks to expansive play structures banked by rolling hills and ballfields, there’s a playground for every age range and activity level. Here’s our insider’s guide to the top eight playgrounds in the Newburyport area, as rated by Macaroni Kid readers. Click the links below for an information-packed review of each park, including key details on shade structures, water play opportunities, and restroom access.

ACTION COVE

15 Bachelor St. West Newbury MA 01985

Action Cove’s whimsical, nautical-themed wooden play structure offers enough steps, slides, lookouts, and hideyholes to keep kids entertained for hours.

playgrounds in the Newburyport area, Action Cove

AMESBURY TOWN PARK PLAYGROUND

Lion’s Mouth Rd., between Friend and Highland Sts. Amesbury MA 01913

This expansive, newly renovated playground forms the heart of Amesbury’s park-recreation scene, boasting state-of-the art play equipment and a splashpad in summer.

playgrounds in the Newburyport area, Amesbury Town Park

BARTLET MALL PLAYGROUND
151 High St. Newburyport MA 01950
This relatively small playground overlooking the “Frog Pond” (Bartlet Mall Pond) benefits from easy access both to downtown Newburyport and to the footpath that rings the pond.

playgrounds in the Newburyport area, Bartlet Mall

CASHMAN PARK
202 Merrimac St. Newburyport MA 01950
Stop by Cashman Park on any given afternoon in good weather and you’ll find a social scene populated by parents, their babies and kids, and a wide variety of strollers, scooters, trikes, and bikes.

playgrounds in the Newburyport area, Cashman Park

INN STREET PLAYGROUND
25 Inn St. Newburyport MA 01950
What tiny Inn Street Playground lacks in amenities it more than makes up for in location, location, location
playgrounds in the Newburyport area, Inn Street Playground

MOSELEY WOODS
Spofford St. Newburyport MA 01950
Tucked into the woods just off the Merrimac Street traffic circle in Newburyport lies a 16-acre park featuring a playground, shaded picnic area, and hiking trails.
playgrounds in the Newburyport area, Moseley Woods

PERKINS PLAYGROUND
10 Beacon Ave. Newburyport MA 01950
Boasting a playground with a generous sandbox, Perkins Park is the go-to recreational area for families in Newburyport’s South End.
playgrounds in the Newburyport area, Perkins Park

PIRATE SHIP PARK
Little Neck Rd. Ipswich MA 01913
At this picturesque oceanview playground on Ipswich’s Little Neck, a modern play structure shaped like a – you guessed it – pirate ship offers lots of climbing opportunities.
playgrounds in the Newburyport area, Pirate Ship Park

Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm

Historic Farm in Newbury

Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm

Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm is a historic 231-acre property in Newbury with events and activities for you and your family to enjoy. The property features exhibits and interactive activities that demonstrate what it was like to live on a farm throughout the centuries. Much of the land at Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm is still under active agriculture!

Visit the expansive open land and tour the farmhouse to see what life was like in Newbury in the 1690s! The farm was originally used to raise cattle, sheep, horses, pigs and chickens. In addition, fruit, vegetables, flowers, barley and fresh meadow hay have been grown on the land. The main house was built with local stone, most likely from nearby Plum Island. There are several outbuildings including a large barn and visitor center that was originally a carriage barn.

There are many fun outdoor events at the Farm including Vintage Baseball from May to October. It’s a lot of fun to watch baseball being played with rules from 1881!

You can also visit sheep, goats, chickens and a horse on the property. The Farm partners with the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to foster these friendly animals. The Farm Friends is a program geared toward children 3 to 6 years old. The children who sign up for this program get to spend time with farm animals, listen to a story, and create a neat craft item to bring home. Programs run at various times throughout the year so be sure to check the Farm’s website for details.

Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm owned and operated by Historic New England, a cultural preservation organization. The season for Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm is from June 1st to October 15th, the grounds are open year round during daylight hours. It’s a great place to enjoy a stroll, ride bikes, cross-country ski, and ride horses. There is plenty of parking at Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm.

Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm

5 Little’s Lane
Newbury, MA 01951
978-462-2634

Directions: Take I-95 to Route 113, Newburyport. Route 113 turns into Route 1A (High Road). Follow Route 1A for 3.7 miles. Turn left onto Little’s Lane.

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Looking for autism- and sensory-friendly options for family entertainment? From autism spectrum to sensory processing disorders, there are plenty of reasons why your child might need a little extra consideration when it comes to high-impact events or activities. Many large entertainment venues now make specific accommodations for these kids (think lower lights, decreased noise levels, and smaller crowds), so no one has to miss out on the fun.

Here are a few area events and activities specially designed to create a calmer environment for sensory-sensitive kids. (For a complete and continuously updated list, check out the Greater Massachusetts Special Needs Event Calendar.)

Movie Theaters

Cinemagic (Salisbury MA and Portsmouth NH) – Sensory- and family-friendly showings run once per month

AMC Theaters (Methuen and Burlington MA) – Sensory-friendly films run four times per month

Chunky’s (Haverhill MA and Pelham NH) – Lights up, sound down sensory-friendly showings run monthly

Museums

Boston Children’s Museum (Boston MA) – Morningstar Access for a less crowded experience once per month

The Discovery Museum (Acton MA) – Autism-Friendly Evenings, Sensory-Friendly Afternoons, Visually Impaired Family Evenings, Mornings and Evenings for Families with Deaf or Hard of Hearing & KODA Infant and Toddlers programs that offer increased accommodations and access to exhibits in an understanding environment

The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire (Dover NH) – Exploring Our Way Program is open the first Sunday of the month for families to enjoy the museum in a less crowded, understanding environment

Museum of Fine Arts (Boston MA) – Beyond the Spectrum program one Saturday per month for children ages 8-12 to explore galleries and create art

Restaurants

Autism Eats (Various Locations) – Hosts dinner parties in restaurants and function facilities with accommodations for sensory sensitivities

Chuck E. Cheese (Burlington, Danvers, and Methuen MA, and Newington NH) – Sensory Sensitive Sundays held the first Sunday of the month

Playspaces

SkyZone (Danvers MA) – Sensory Hours held on the second Sunday of the month

Storytimes

Amesbury Public Library (Amesbury MA) – Sensory Storytimes offered once per month

For more events for kids and families in the Greater Newburyport area, visit www.newburyport.macaronikid.com. Subscribe to our FREE weekly e-newsletter to have our complete calendar delivered right to your inbox: http://newburyport.macaronikid.com/subscribe/

No spring fever here – we’ve compiled a list of low-cost local indoor play places to take your young ones to get the wiggles out.

Harmony Natural Learning Center in Newbury hosts both morning and afternoon open-playtimes for ages 7 and under throughout the winter months. Stocked with simple activities that feature natural materials, Harmony offers a “unique play environment intentionally structured to minimize the adult role in leading and guiding play.”

Newburyport’s Joppa Flats Education Center, part of the Massachusetts Audubon Society, offers a wide range of programming for ages 3 and up, including a year-round “Imagine, Sing & Learn” series for ages 3-6 and a giant saltwater touch tank in summer. If the weather cooperates, you can cross the street to walk the path that hugs the airfield and then heads through a thicket toward historic Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm. About three miles away at Rough Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary in Rowley, you can explore more Mass Audubon trails and try to spot some of the area’s birds and small animals.

Ipswich Museum, one of the great indoor play places for the area, has just opened a new model-train exhibit. It also offers hosts monthly homeschooler workshops for ages 6-12 that range from age-appropriate explorations of the museum’s collections to walking tours of Ipswich. Contact educator@ipswichmuseum.org for information on upcoming workshops.

All That Cheer and Tumble in Amesbury offers an open gym time most Tuesday mornings (check for schedule). The Imagination Stationz program features sensory activities, dramatic play, and an obstacles course.

The visitor’s center at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge in Newburyport offers a kid’s story hour for ages 3-5 on Monday mornings plus free movie screenings as part of its twice-monthly “Kids’ Conservation Cinema” series. Download a monthly calendar of events from PRNWR’s website.

Ipswich Birth to Three Family Center hosts a popular open playtime for young children, among many other programs for kids and families. Classes are free for residents of Ipswich and Essex and with a suggested donation of $6 for non-residents.

Seacoast United Admirals offers a weekday-morning PlayTime program for under-5s at its indoor recreation facility in Amesbury. Season-long memberships available.

The Do Drops playgroup for ages 4 and under is the Newbury Town Library’s best-kept secret. This freewheeling, twice-weekly playtime runs yearlong in the library’s Community Room.

Preschool Open Gym for ages 2-5 at the Newburyport Youth Services Rec Center offers a weekly opportunity to get the wiggles out in a spacious gymnasium with balls, mats, and plenty of room to run around.

Buddhaful Souls Yoga Studio in Rowley welcomes toddlers and their caregivers for a drop-in Friday mom-and-me yoga session ($10/toddler), and both the Rowley Public Library and the Salisbury Public Library host free kids’ yoga classes.

We hope you find this list of suggestions helpful when in search of fun indoor play places in the Newburyport area.

Visit the websites above for more details or – better yet – check the Macaroni Kid events calendar, where you can find ALL of these programs listed in one place!

Agricultural adventures await your family.

Meet Farm Animals & Explore Field Tours

Best known for the freshest produce, meats and poultry, Tendercrop Farm in Newbury, Massachusetts offers a healthy, family-friendly experience that reaches behind groceries.

In addition to delectable farm to table foods, plants and crafts, the Farm now offers Tendercrop Field Tours!

Great for school groups, scout troops and birthday parties, Tendercrop will open their fields and pastures to the public, sharing the farming experience.

On the tour you’ll discover how food goes from the farm to table, and visit with Tendercrop Farm Friends including baby chicks, cows and turkeys.

Guests will also pick their own fresh strawberries, peaches, apples and whatever else is in season. Plus, taste treats from inside the store.

Each child will also be eligible to earn a “First Time Farmer” certificate.

Tendercrop Field Tours are available May through October with a 20 person minimum. Tickets are $8 per person.

Tendercrop Farm

108 High Rd, Route 1A, Newbury, MA 01951

(978) 462-6972

info@tendercropfarm.com

Meat & Poultry from the Farm

Fresh Produce

Order a Farm Fresh Holiday Turkey! Gift Shop

New, New Hampshire Location

Tendercrop Farm at the Red Barn 123 Dover Point Road Dover NH 01951

phone: 603.740.4920

email: info@tendercropfarm.com

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Colby Farm Sunflowers – End of Summer Fun!

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Visit the Sunflower Field & the Market!

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