Come explore what nature has in store at some of our most amazing wild places on the North Shore. Joppa Flats' engaging and experienced staff will introduce families to local beaches, forests, and wetlands to make observations in nature, identify wildlife, and enjoy hands on science activities outdoors. Sign up for one, some, or all!
The first day of the new year is best spent outside! Join Danielle Sugrue for a First Day Hike at Ward Reservation. Start the new year with a mindful walk to the top of Holt Hill then set intentions for the new year around the solstice stones. Warm up with some hot chocolate and walk in to the this new year with a clear vision.
5k and Half MerryThon - or both races back-to-back! Whether you're just hitting the road for the first time or already passionate about the sport, our races provide fun, festive and competitive events where everyone is welcome. Come enjoy beautiful ocean views as you run along the scenic coastline on Cape Ann and race towards our huge finish line arch!
Get a bird’s eye view of Gloucester and Cape Ann! Climb the interior of City Hall’s clock and bell tower to experience the wow factor of looking over our beloved community, while learning about the history of Gloucester’s most significant architectural building that has defined our skyline for over 150 years. And be sure to see the magnificent collection of WPA murals in the building.
Join us for the Gloucester Rotary Club's Centennial Celebration at the Stage Fort Park gazebo overlooking Glouecster Harbor! This celebration will include food from 5 Star Phresh-Phood and Harbor Tap Trailer! We will also have musical guests Captain Jack & The Strangers (The Northshore's Premier Billy Joel Tribute Band) with the opener Brandon Blatchford & the Wannabe Teenagers.
Falconry is the sport of hunting with a trained bird of prey. It is also the demanding art of training a predatory bird that is by nature wary of people to hunt cooperatively with a human partner. Although the sport has a 4,000 – year history, its glory days were indisputably the medieval period. While this presentation centers around live birds used in falconry, it is not a flight demonstration but a history-rich look at an ancient sport. Focusing on the medieval period, it explains the characteristics of the birds of prey used, how the sport reflected the lifestyle of the time, and the historical reasons behind falconry’s rise and fall.
The Gloucester Sidewalk Bazaar attracts more than 5000 visitors to celebrate in downtown Gloucester. This annual summer tradition, now in its 65th year, hosts multiple vendors, street food, live music and children’s activities. The event features downtown merchants and restaurants as well as artists, crafters and more!
Join us for our third annual Summer Market at Ocean Alliance located at the iconic former Tarr and Wonson Paint Manufactory, now home to on Rocky Neck! Our Summer Market will feature more than 25 Cape Ann inspired Artisans, Crafters and Makers offering nature and coastal inspired jewelry, pottery, painting, photography, woodworking, fiber arts, candle, body care, hand harvested artisanal sea salts, and much more.
The Pops in the Park concert on is a celebration not only of the 400+ years of Gloucester history but of the 70+ years of the Cape Ann Symphony. With the majestic backdrop of Gloucester Harbor this free outdoor event will be a special evening of music. It is a gift from the Cape Ann Symphony to the city we love.
Journey on Essex Heritage’s landing craft Naumkeag to Great Misery Island in Salem Sound. Along the way, hear stories about the rich history of the harbor and how the Misery Islands acquired their unique name. When you arrive, you’ll have 2 hours to explore the trails, open meadows, rocky shoreline, and hidden coves on the island. The Misery Islands are managed by The Trustees. More information about the islands as well as a trail map can be found HERE
