Massachusetts has produced the greatest thinkers and artists in American history. Benjamin Franklin, Ralph Waldo Emerson and the Kennedy Family have all called the New England state home. Because of the region’s natural beauty, historical significance and east coast modesty, it has become a popular destination for travelers.
Here are the 5 best local events in Massachusetts:
1) St. Patrick’s Day parades.
To outsiders, St. Patrick’s Day may seem like nothing more than an excuse to party, but to Massachusetts residents, it is a holy holiday. The Cape Cod and South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parades have become a massive celebration of Irish culture.
Thousands of people flood the streets in green clothing and accessories, laughing, crying and yelling together as one collective family. Whether you are there to pay homage to the patron saint of Ireland or just have fun with friends, the festivities go all night.
The parades start on Mar 5th.
2) Red Sox baseball game.
No trip to Massachusetts would be complete without a stop by Fenway Park. Boston’s famed baseball stadium has witnessed some of the sport’s most memorable moments.
Opened in 1912, Fenway is currently the oldest Major League Baseball stadium in use. A classic venue known to Red Sox fans around the world, Fenway provides great seats to a great sport. More than 37,000 people cram the stadium to get a glimpse of their beloved franchise.
Open between April and September, tickets range from $25-$50. But if the Red Sox are clobbering rival teams like the Yankees or Dodgers, expect those prices to skyrocket.
3) July 4th celebration.
Boston is a special place for Americans and followers of American history. Massachusetts’ capital is one of the oldest and most important cities in the United States. Ever since the Puritans founded it in the 1600s, Boston has been the location of many major historic events, including the Boston Tea Party, Battle of Bunker Hill and the Siege of Boston.
Celebrate the history of Boston on the nation’s most important day. Every Fourth of July, the Esplanade plays host to drinks, food and fireworks. Invite your friends and family members, and arrive early for a good seat.
4) Haunted Happenings Grand Parade.
Salem, Massachusetts is notorious around the world for its dark history. In the spring of 1692, 14 women and 5 men were found guilty of witchcraft and sentenced to death. The story of their hangings is still told today.
Instead of trying to hide their past, Salem residents have embraced it. Vehicles are adorned with broomstick logos, and local schools are named after Wiccan images.
On October 6th, the area celebrates the Haunted Happenings Grand Parade, where local students march in the street wearing Halloween-themed garb. Bring cameras and costumes.
5) Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas.
Norman Rockwell, Massachusetts’ greatest painter, captured one of the state’s quaint towns in his famous illustration, “Main Street, Stockbridge at Christmas”. Every holiday season, residents of the town reenact the scene to honor Rockwell and the state he came from.
Visit the western Massachusetts town December 3-4 to witness the event.
Despite its small size, the state of Massachusetts holds some big events. The 5 listed above are just a few of the fantastic sites and scenes to take in when you come to visit.