Here's a round-up of the events in New England and neighboring New York State that made the Top 100 List:
December 31, 2008-October 31, 2009
Vermont Celebrates Champlain
Various Vermont locations
802-828-0528
Vermont toasts the 400th anniversary of French explorer Samuel de Champlain's exploration of the lake that bears his name with dozens of special happenings and events in 2009. Many signature events will be held in collaboration with New York State and the Canadian city of Quebec, which was founded by Champlain. The celebration's highlight will be the July 2-14 Celebrate Champlain Burlington International Waterfront Festival featuring Native American, Franco-American, Quebeçois and French performers; music and dance; and a massive parade and fireworks on July 11 in Burlington.
January 1-December 31, 2009
Hudson 400th Celebration of Discovery
Albany, New York
518-434-1217/800-258-3582
Champlain wasn't the only explorer poking around in the Northeast in 1609. Neighboring New York State will host events along the Hudson River throughout 2009 in commemoration of the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's famous upriver trip. Many, such as the annual Tulip Festival, will celebrate the Dutch heritage of New York's capital city, Albany. A full-size replica of Hudson's ship, the Half Moon, will make many appearances.
May 23-25 and September 5-7, 2009
Woodstock-New Paltz Arts & Craft Fairs
New Paltz, New York
845-679-8087
Head to New York's Ulster County over Memorial Day or Labor Day weekend in 2009 for a chance to view and shop for vibrant, one-of-a-kind creations made by 300 juried craftspeople. These fine art and craft shows, produced by Quail Hollow Events, also feature live music and opportunities to sample Hudson Valley foods and wines.
June 25-28, 2009
Provincetown Portuguese Festival
Provincetown, Massachusetts
508-487-0500
This four-day waterfront festival celebrating Provincetown's Portuguese heritage features music, dancing, children's activities, sumptuous food and a Gala Parade. It concludes Sunday with the blessing of the fleet, a tradition since 1947.
June 30-July 5, 2009
28th Annual Boston Harborfest
Boston, Massachusetts
617-227-1528
Boston Harborfest is much more than a Fourth of July celebration. More than 200 events highlighting Boston's role in the founding of the United States make this America's Biggest Birthday Party. Events are held around the waterfront and downtown areas and include walking tours of historical sites, lectures, reenactments, outdoor concerts, fireworks and even a Chowderfest. More than half of the events are free.
July 31-August 2, 2009
Litchfield Jazz Festival
Kent, Connecticut
860-567-4162
The Litchfield Hills come alive each summer with the sounds of classic and modern jazz. In addition to three days of live music, the festival, which relocates this year to the Kent School, features arts and crafts and food.
Next Page: More Top Events for 2009
