Hi I'm Wayne. Welcome to my blog.
I am a true New Englander through and through. I love everything about New England. I especially love discovering new places in New England and sharing my experiences with everyone. I tend to focus on the more unique and lesser known places and things in New England on my blog.
Oh yeah, and I love dogs. I always try to include at least one dog in each of my blog posts.
I discovered my love of photography a couple of years ago. I know, I got a late start. Now, I photograph anything that seems out of the ordinary, interesting, beautiful and/or unique. And I have noticed how every person, place or thing I photograph has a story behind it or him or her. I don't just photograph things or people or animals. I try to get their background, history or as much information as possible to give the subject more context and meaning. It's interesting how one simple photograph can evoke so much.
I am currently using a Nikon D3200 "beginner's camera." Even though there are better cameras on the market, and I will upgrade some time, I love how it functions (usually) and it has served me well.
The great thing about my blog is you don't have to be from New England, or even like New England to like my blog (although I've never met anyone who doesn't). All you have to like is to see and read about new or interesting places and things.
Hopefully, you'll join me on my many adventures in New England!
Location: Salem Commons , North Washington Square, Salem, MA (35 minutes northeast of Boston, MA)
Cost: Free
Dog Friendly: Yes
Universally Accessible: Yes
Summary: Salem Commons transformed into the days of the 1920s for a very special event.
It was a swinging good time last weekend at Salem Commons.
For the past 6 years, the Salem community Neighborhood Association has hosted the Vintage Lawn Party. The party included dancing, antique cars, music and vendors selling all things vintage.
On my way to the event, I noticed this sky writer. Only in Salem!
While dressing up for the event is not required, it is encouraged and appreciated! Many people came dressed up in their best vintage wear! In fact, it seems like each year more guests decide to don their best attire. I used some special settings such as black and white and sepia to give some of the photos an old timey feel.
Annie and the Fur Traders kept the people dancing with their swinging sounds.
And, of course, there was dancing.
If dancing isn’t your thing, there were some cool cars to check out. In previous years, there was only one or two cars at the party. But, over time as word about the party spread, more and more cars began to show up. I love the curves, shape and sleekness of the cars.
This 1966 Excalibur has a special connection to Salem. It was the very same car used in the Bewitched episodes filmed in Salem, MA. The owner of the vehicle, “Sid” posed with his car.
Below is a photo of the very same car from the Bewitched episode filmed in 1970.
There were also lawn games for everyone to enjoy. Although it may seem like a new sensation, cornhole has existed since the 1880s in different forms.
Croquet, another game that has been around since the 1800s, was also a popular game played by both the young and old.
This 5 year old is quite the croquet prodigy.
There were a number of merchants selling everything from clothing, art ceramics and everything in between.
After a long day of partying and dancing, this pooch was all partied out!
Summary: 100 elephants were placed along the Cliff Walk in Newport, RI.
The elephants have come to Rhode Island.
No, these isn’t a tagline for the next Hollywood blockbuster. The Great Elephant Migration was a display of 100 elephants made from lantana, a plant common in the southern and northeast part of India. It’s truly incredible to think the artists could make such incredible artistic renderings of elephants.
The 100 Indian elephants, which have since been transported to New York City, were displayed at 3 locations along the Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island; The Breaker’s Mansions, Salve Regina University, Doris Duke/Rough Point Mansion and there was a solitary elephant on display a little farther away from the Cliff Walk at the Great Friend’s Meeting House at 21 Farewell Street, Newport, RI, which is posted below.
The elephants were made in the shape of actual elephants. The herd consists of replicas of real-life elephants personally known to The Coexistence Collective. The Coexistence Collective is a community of around 200 artisans in southern India who made them. And, most of the elephants had names and, in some instance a matriarch twin. For instance, Sarah, the Duchess of York, is the matriarchal twin of Mayflower, who had a darker shade than most other elephants because she is a darker shade in real life.
It took 6 to 7 years for the artists to complete each elephant. So, a lot of care was taken to get all of the details right for each elephant.
The first place I visited to photograph the displays was The Breaker’s Mansion. It is a beautiful mansion inside and out. There were 28 elephants at this location. Initially, I was going to photograph every elephant and include their name for each of them. However, that seemed like pure drudgery and not necessarily much fun for people to look at. So I scrapped that idea. I did, however, photograph all of the elephants. Very often, I think I shouldn’t photograph something. Then, after looking at it a second time, I am glad I did. That is one thing I’ve learned from taking so many photographs. There are no shortcuts and you really shouldn’t always go with your gut instinct. Something that looks like a dull or “mid” photo can actually look very nice after a second look.
The elephants were on sale! The sales would go to raise funds for the 22 conservation organizations around the country. The prices ranged from $8,000 for a baby elephant to $22,000 for the largest tusked elephant. I heard from a volunteer that almost all have already been sold.
I particularly liked how they kept the parents and babies together in some of the displays.
They also seemed to show the elephants smiling or possibly talking. As though they were happy to be there.
I couldn’t help myself from taking a few photos of the architecture and art at The Breaker’s. I hope to get more photos another time when I go on a tour.
I made several trips to the exhibits, particularly the elephant display at Salve Regina University because it was easily accessible off the Cliff Walk. My favorite photos were from when I visited just after sunrise. I particularly liked how the sun shone on the elephants. Plus, there were less people there to get in the way of the photos. And, that was the most difficult part of the photo shoot. It was a very popular display and some of the elephants were located at mansions that didn’t open until 10 am. So it was almost impossible to photograph those elephants without people being there. I noticed in many of my photos some of the elephants had a few extra legs and feet. And human at that!
However, my favorite place to photograph the elephants was at The Doris Duje Estate (aka Rough Point). The wide open lawn and scenic background was very pretty. It almost made you feel like you were in India photographing them. Well, sort of.
Elephants weren’t the only animals on display at the Rough Point Mansion. Flowery depictions of Princess and Baby were also on display on the front lawn. Princess and Baby were Doris Duke’s pet camels.
The displays at Salve Regina University were pet friendly. Fiona a 4 year old mixed breed, got in the shade under this elephant.
As I mentioned above, the elephants are now in New York City. They will eventually go on to Miami South Beach, the Buffalo Pastures in Browning, Montana, and Los Angeles.
Summary: For the past 2 years, Facone has been holding dancing events along the Greenway.
They were dancing on the Greenway this summer. Specifically, the Dancing on the Greenway, a series of dancing events along the Rose Kennedy Greenway, took center stage every Tuesday during the summer months.
The event attracted dancers of all capabilities and a few curious onlookers.
The best part of the event was watching everyone just having fun. It didn’t matter if they were good dancers, not so good or somewhere in the middle.
Each dancing event featured a different type of dancing. The theme of the dancing event during my visit was Scottish Ceilidh. Pronounced as kay-lee, Ceilidh is a gaelic word meaning gathering or party. And the dance event seemed more like a gathering and party. While technique and style were a bonus, it was really all about having fun and learning about this Scottish Ceilidh dance genre. A dance instructor and experienced Scottish dancers helped lead the dancers during this event.
Some of the music for these dance events the summer were recordings played on a sound system. But, I made sure to stop by while there was a live band performing. Susie Petrov, Stephen Thomforde and Marnen Laibow-Koser provided the music for the event I attended.
AS darkness fell upon the Greenway, the lights of the city lit up the dance area.
In yet another sign that summer is indeed winding down, the final Dancing on the Greenway event is Tuesday, August 27. But, they may be back again next year! So, don’t forget to stop by next summer! Just don’t forget to bring your dance shoes!
Location: Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge, MA (1 hour and 30 minutes southwest of Boston, MA)
Hours: Hours and days of operation vary depending on the time of the year
Cost: $30 for adults, $28 for seniors (age 55+), and $15 for youth (ages 4-17). There is a $3 discount if you purchase tickets online. Military families also receive discounts.
Parking: Free parking is provided at the village
Summary: Hundreds of historical reenactors gathered at Old Sturbridge Village to recreate the Revolutionary War era.
The largest military re-enactment in New England, Redcoats and Rebels, made its annual appearance at Old Sturbridge Village earlier this month. From cooking demonstrations to the highlight of the event; the battle reenactment, the historical village depicted life in the colonial era. Many of the reenactors showed off their culinary chops and craft making skills.
One of the delicacies served up at the encampment was egg pie (yum). And, it is still considered a popular dish in some parts. The big meal of the day, however, was a turkey dinner with all the fixings.
Horses played an integral part of life during this time and there were many people riding or caring for their horses. I found it heartwarming to see the care and effort they put into caring for these animals.
Some of the items on display were toys from that era. I don’t know about you. But, I’d rather play with my phone!
Tents and soldiers could be found throughout the encampment.
Some of the weapons from that era were also on display. I especially appreciated the fine detail incorporated in these weapons.
Music also played a big part at the event.
These drummers had a unique type of drumming. Not only did they bang on their drums, they also banged their sticks together.
I noticed these musicians practicing before a musical event.
Doctor Newman, with the assistance of a fellow reenactor, explained the process of amputation during the Revolutionary War era. The average amputation at that time took 2 minutes and were done without any anesthesia. And, since liquor thins blood, they could not even take a few sips of whisky to help dull the pain.
For someone with such a gruesome job, Dr. Newman was a rather jovial sort.
The tools of the surgeon were shoddy. The white object that looks like a mitten was used to wrap the area where the amputation took place. It was a grim reminder of the cost of war that we should never forget.
There were many re-enactors I was fortunate enough to photograph at the event.
But, the re-enactors weren’t the only people who dressed up for the event. These visitors also dressed up in their best Colonial era attire.
Finally, after a busy day photographing the re-enactors, it was time for the Redcoats and Rebels battle to begin!
The battle was a realistic reenactment of the Revolutionary War.
As you can see by some of the soldiers in the photo below, the cannons did make a very loud noise.
The British proved to be a formidable opponent.
But, in the end, the Rebels were able to keep them at bay and eventually the Redcoats retreated.
Both armies made sure to not leave their wounded behind.
As I was leaving, I passed by the “Field Of Flags.” Each flag represents a person who had died serving their country. It was a moving display to never forget those who have sacrificed for their country.
During one weekend in July, fifteen sand sculptors from all over the world showed off what they can do with sand at Revere Beach Sand Sculpture Festival.
To celebrate the 20th annual festival, there were sculptures of, of course, cake.
This sculpture incorporated themes and elements of previous sand sculptures at the event, and, of course, some of the sponsors.
While there were sculptors from all over the world at the event, there were also some familiar faces there. If you go to the Hampton Beach Sand Sculpture Classic or read my posts about that festival, some of the names of the sculptors from this competition may sound familiar. In fact, 4 of the participants in the Revere Sand Sculpture Festival also participated in the Hampton Beach Sand Sculpture Classic.
The 3 day festival, which includes entertainment acts, food stations and carnival rides, took place from Fri, July 19 until Sunday, July 21. The awards were presented Saturday evening. Speaking of awards, I am going to list the sculptures with the award winning sand sculptures first.
1st Place & Sculptor’s Choice – “Blend In” by Jobi Bouchard (Canada)
2nd Place – “Untitled” by Slavian Borecki (Poland)
3rd Place – “Dinner” by Susanne Ruseler (The Netherlands)
4th Place – “Barn Swallow, Swallow Barn” by Bouke Atema
5th Place – “Fish Fantasy” by Karen Fralich
The remaining sand sculptures that did not win any awards but were still very impressive are listed below.
“Pray” by Matsu Yoshi (Japan)
“Reflower” by Abe Waterman (Canada)
“Embrace Your Shadows To See Wholeness” by Hanneke Supply (Belgium)
“Say More” by Morgan Rudluff (California)
“Phoenix Rising” by Bruce Philips (California)
“Cat Burglar” by Patrick Harsch (Florida)
“Dice Of Destiny” by Greg Grady (New Hampshire)
“The Special Selfie” by Ndricim (Jimmy) Bejko
“A Butterfly’s Playground” by Deb Barret-Cutulle (Saugus, MA)
“Space Child” by Jeroen Advocaat (The Netherlands)
While all of the sculptures were great, everyone usually has a favorite. For what it’s worth, “The Cat Burglar” won me over. Which sculpture is your favorite?
Summary: Boston City Hall Plaza hosted a family friendly, free celebration of Boston native Donna Summer and all things disco!
Disco lives on! At least for one night Boston, MA!
For the past 10 years, Boston has kept Donna’s legacy alive with their Donna Summer Disco Party, A native of Boston, MA, Donna Summer, a 5 time Grammy winner and inductee in the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame, has left an indelible mark on the music industry and the city.
The event included dancing, roller skating and, of course, music!
People came to the party dressed to impress!
Some of the accessories from their outfits lit up! This nice lady showed off her earrings. Yes, they change colors!
And this tierra lit up!
People even got dressed up to go roller skating! (more roller skating photos later)
Hundreds of people attended the event which made for a crowded dance floor. But, people still found a way to get their groove on!
And, of course, what would a dance party be without a “Love Train?”
The event, which took place between 5 and pm provided some great lighting, I especially like how the setting sun shone off people’s hair.
There was also hula hooping and jump rope for people to enjoy!
The highlight of the evening was the roller skating, especially for the photo opportunities! I try to catch people in their natural state. But, everyone seems to want to smile whenever they see a camera!
The event was pet friendly and I saw quite a few different pets at the disco party.
From left to right is Millie and Walter
And from left to right are Bandit Amadeus and Whitey Bulger. Walter is giving them some serious side eye!
The event was topped off with a musical performance by Donna Summer’s sister, Mary Gaines Bernard and her nephew O’Mega Red.
It was really fun and refreshing to see so many people come together and have fun while expressing themselves freely.
If you missed the event, don’t worry! The Donna Summer Disco Party is an annual event! So, I’ll see you next year. Just don’t forget to bring your roller skates!
Location: Salem Maritime National Historic Site, 160 Derby St, Salem, MA
It’s 1774 in Salem, MA. The British military governor of Massachusetts General Thomas Gage moved the state General Court and capital of Massachusetts from Boston to Salem. This was done for a variety of reasons but stemmed from something having to do with tea.
After the little dustup also known as the Boston Tea Party, the British Parliament, in an effort to punish Massachusetts colonists, passed the Coercive Acts (aka as the Intolerable Acts by the colonists). These acts were not just “coercive”. They were also divisive. While some Salem colonists supported them, others not so much. So, things were somewhat contentious. Sounds familiar.
To celebrate the 250th anniversary of this historic decision, the National Park Service at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site and a variety of historical actors held a 2 day event to educate and entertain guests.
The day started with a mass at St Peter’s Episcopal Church on St Peter’s St. Since this was 1774, the mass and messages were slightly different from things you might hear today at a religious ceremony.
The pastor railed against “speaking out against the government” and for loyalty to the crown.
From exclaiming “Huzzah” when the Governor was announced to dressing to the nines, the congregation was eager to show their respect to the crown. Respect for the crown was the common theme of the sermon and mass. In fact, when the donation plate was brought to each person the collector said the money would go to the government. Not to those in need but rather the government.
People at the ceremony were dressed in their Sunday Bests.
General Thomas Gage (on the right in the photo below) and a fellow officer sat in a pew specially designated for him.
Tributes to the king and the crown could be found inside the church.
After the mass, the event continued onto the Salem Maritime National Historic Site on Derby St. This particular flag included symbols for Scotland who were part of the British empire.
At the encampment, actors displayed what life was like in Salem, MA, during 1744. From knitting their own uniforms to cook and starting fires, life was certainly much different 250 years ago.
The British Encampment event was family friendly. In fact, they even had some rifles (wooden toy rifles) for people of all ages to enjoy.
And, some real rifles used by the historical actors.
There were also historical experts who showed off some of the foods, fashion and medicine that were common for that time.
The food in these photos were common for most meals during 1774.
And, after eating all that food. Tea was a common beverage.
Fashion was another big part of Salem in 1774. This hat was considered not only very fashionable but very expensive for its time.
Knitting was a big part of life in Salem in 1774.
Musicians kept the guests entertained with music from that era.
I don’t want to give it all away. But, the Coercive Acts didn’t go over very well and something happened a year later. But, that’s a topic for another day!
Summary: Some of the most renown sand sculptures from around the world competed at Hampton Beach in the 24th annual Sand Sculpting Classic event.
“Sand Wars” have come to Hampton Beach! At least that is the theme of this year’s Sand Sculpting Classic.
The center sand sculpture at the Sand Sculpting Classic event has a different theme each year. And, as you may have guessed, the “sand Wars” theme is a play on “Star Wars.” All of the sand sculptors work together to make these impressive sand sculptures. Oddly, the Sand People were not included in these sand sculptures.
While “Sand Wars” was the theme for the center sculptures, the sculptors could make sculptures for any topic or subject.
Battling both a heat wave earlier in the contest to rain on the last day (it is New England after all), the sand sculptors had to work through some difficult conditions. But, as you will see below, the weather didn’t deter them from creating some spectacular works of art.
I am posting the sand sculptures in the order they are located at the beach (from left to right)
The first sand sculpture “Skin Deep” by Andrew Dailey is a sculpture in the form of a mermaid. He said his piece was a statement on the many limitations on what some put on beauty.
“A Step Beyond” – Dmitry Klimenko (St. Petersburg, Russia) Second Place
Dmitry Klimenko’s sculpture won second place with his sculpture for “A Step Beyond.”
Beauregard, who won first place in the competition last year, took third place with “Inception.” She said her sculpture was inspired by how life is “linked through DNA and all of nature.”
“Sofia’s Cradle” – David Ducharme (British Columbia, Canada) First Place
In his debut appearance at the Sand Sculpting Classic, Ducharme won first place. His inspiration for this sculpture came in a dream. Recently, Ducharme had a dream about Sofia, the Greek goddess of wisdom. The nest or “cradle” under the goddess is meant to be the nest where wisdom is nurtured.
“Orphan” – Carl D Jara (Lyndhurst, OH) Sculptor’s Choice Award Winner
Carl, who has participated in all 24 sand sculpting events, said this sculpture which depicts a woman surrounded by two extinguished candles was influenced by the loss of both of his parents. His sculpture won the Sculptor’s Choice Award which is voted on by the competing sculptors. Since it is voted by their peers, it is a highly coveted award.
Bruce said his sculpture is about people trapped in mental health issues. The panels surrounding the skull represent the barriers of mental illness.
“Artio” – Karen Fralich (Ontario, Canada) People’s Choice Award Winner & The Governor’s Award Winner
Karen said her sculpture was a tribute to the Celtic bear goddess. She also said it represents the strength of a mother bear who protects the Earth. Karen won the People’s Choice Award which is voted on by the people who visit the event as well as the Governor’s Award which was voted on by New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu.
“Open Your Mind & Awaken Your Inner Child” – Karlis Ile (Riga, Latvia)
Ile, another newcomer to the event, said this sculpture was inspired by his 20 month old son. Ile jokingly said his son is a “nice troublemaker.” He said he wanted to portray the child as being both playful and happy while the man is very serious, much like himself. He said it is kind of like a self portrait.
“We All Fall Down” – Abe Waterman (Prince Edward Island)
There was also a sand sculpture dedicated to the Boston Celtics because of their recent NBA Finals Championship. It is their 18th championship in the team’s history.
As you may have noticed, the inspirations and explanations of the sculptures are just as interesting and moving as the sculptures. Finding about the background of these sculptures adds so much to the artistic value of them.
I wasn’t sure when to go to the beach because of the various, changing weather forecasts predicting scattered showers. Lucky for me, I happened to wake up early enough to get there before the rain started. But, the threat of rain kept a lot of people from going to the beach which allowed me to get photos without many people in the background. As I was finishing the photo shoot it just began to rain. And, if you zoom in and look closely, you may see the rain and even some rain drops on the sculptures.
These sculptures will be up until Wednesday, June 26. They will also be lit up for night time viewing.
Summary: 16 art exhibits are located throughout downtown Boston.
While this winter weather may have been a difficult one for many of us, there was a bright spot in the downtown Boston area. The walkable art exhibit known as Winteractive brought some color and fun to what can be a dreary and frigid Boston winter.
The exhibits, which were inspired by the winter art festivals in Quebec, Canada, are located throughout the downtown Boston area. However, they are mainly located near Downtown Crossing train station, City Hall Plaza and High Street as well as Summer St. near the South Station train station. You can view the locations on this map. While it is possible to walk to all of the exhibits, it may be a good idea to use public transportation or rideshare services to view some of the exhibits off the beaten path.
As you will see, some of the exhibits are interactive. Whenever possible, I got some friendly people to help use the interactive devices for filming. I am listing these exhibits in the order of their locations. Eleven exhibits are are located in or near the Downtown Crossing area. Two more are located in or near City Hall Plaza and the last 2 are located in the Financial District on or near Summer St. Consult the map on the attached link above if you plan on visiting these exhibits.
Echoes: A Voice From Unchartered Waters
1 Franklin St
Mathias Gmachl (United Kingdom)
Steel structure on base
As you emerge from the Downtown Crossing train station, the first exhibit you will see ifs Echoes: A Voice From Unchartered Waters. This exhibit in the shape of a whale is meant to ask us to consider our everyday activities on nature and the environment and to make us be more aware of its fragility. The exhibit not only lights up. It also makes sounds that you can only hear if you’re very close to it.
The artist Mathias Gmachl said he wanted to create a space for people to discuss the future of our planet.
The next 5 works of art were all completed by the same artist; Mark Jenkins. These are all listed below. Mark uses common household or personal items such as tape, wigs, fabrics, fishing rods (yes fishing rods) and rope among other items in his work. Although there is not ,more information available for all of these exhibits, I have included some info when I can find it. Since some of the exhibits relied on their lighting to add to their artistic value, I only went either at night or just before night time. I did like how the sunset or pre sunset light reflected on some of the installations.
Fisherman (Untitled #1)
Summer St at Chauncy St
It is not fish, but love, this person is trying to catch. Good luck, there!
The Swing (Untitled # 2)
Winter St at Tremont St
Woman Suspended (Untitled #3)
Temple Pl
*this exhibit is temporarily unavailable
Stairwalker (Untitled # 4)
31 Bromfield St
Clothesline (Untitled #5)
9 West St (the site of the outdoor lot at Brattle Book Shop)
Blissful Rendezvous
Summer Street Pedestrian Plaza
Kezna Dalz
Vinyl digital print
This exhibit was meant to show the commonalities between the Boston and Quebec provinces by including the flora and fauna of both locations and using Boston as its backdrop. You may notice some of the more notable landmarks and things common in Massachusetts and New England such as lobsters, deer and colorful flowers.
There are also 5 “play feature” exhibits made by LeMonde Studio. They make sounds, light up or do some other fun things based on user interaction.
Light Lane Bikes
Summer Street Pedestrian Plaza
I tried to get someone to ride these bikes so I could display the way the lights change but I had no takers. The colored lines on the bikes light up and moved as people pedal. That’s it!
Guitar Slide
City Hall Plaza
As the name suggests, there is a slide on the neck of this guitar
Music Box
High Street Place Entrance
Photo Frame
Summer Street Pedestrian Plaza
I was able to persuade someone to crank the lever on the device next to the frame and light up this picture frame!
Bird House
Hyatt Regency, One Avenue De Lafayette
This is another interactive exhibit. You simply crank the lever on the box and the bird makes some interesting sounds!
“End Game” (Nagg & Nell)
Max Streicher
Recycled vinyl signs, fans, steel cable
This was certainly my, and many other people’s, favorite exhibit. There were always a group of people stopping by to photograph it whenever I passed by the area. However, the back story of the characters in this exhibit is pretty grim. The inflatable heads are based on characters in the play by Irish novelist Samuel Beckett; End Game. In this play, the characters Nell and Nagg are forced to live out their lives in a dumpster after losing their legs. Yikes.
The mythical unicorn stands behind a frosted glass display. This was a tricky photo to take. I wanted to photograph it at night to show off the light in the display. Yet, the display did tend to reflect the glare from the street lights and lights from the storefronts. In retrospect, I should have photographed it from the other side.
Island Of Warmth
125 Summer St
ATOMIC3
Steel and light elements
Two hundred and twenty bulbs light up intermittently on this visual, musical and luminous display. The Island of Warmth is a tribute to Montreal’s festive tradition. But, despite the name, it’s not going to keep you warm. So, don’t try to warm up by it!
Territories 2.0
175 Federal St
Olivier Roberge
Steel, polycarbonate, paint, miniature models, LED lighting
Described as a “true narrative microcosm”, this walk in exhibit is a diorama which depicts a natural environment that has been abundantly transformed by human intervention and climate change.
Although it’s more like Springactive at this point, this exhibit is a must see if you’re in the Boston area! But, don’t wait. The displays will only be up until April 15!
Summary: The family friendly Irish Festival at Patriot Place included Irish step dancers, musical acts, face painting and many people dressed in their best Irish themed attire!
Everyone was Irish at the Irish Festival at Patriot Place!
Music, dancing and colorful costumes were in abundance last weekend at the 13th annual Irish Festival at Patriot Place in Foxborough, MA.
The festival included Irish musical acts such as Fenian Sons. I especially like how the musician in the background made sure he got in the photo!
But, the highlight of the Irish Festival for most of visitors were the Irish Step Dancers. The festival featured dancers the Sullivan-Stewart School of Irish Dance, Greene-O’Leary School of Irish Dance, Keane O’Brien Academy of Irish Dance and Harney Academy of Irish Dance.
The lighting at the event was challenging. But, at least at the beginning of the event, the lighting gave some great color and highlights to the dancers. I especially like how the rays of sun hit off the dancer’s hair.
The pure joy and concentration the dancers expressed was great to see and photograph.
The acrobatics, twirls and other dance moves were very impressive.
The dancers gave the event quite a kick. The Rockettes have nothing on them!
In between the dancing schools performances, some of the visitors took to the dance floor.
There were also special guests at the event such as Blades, the official mascot of the Boston Bruins.
And Nauset, named after the popular beach in Orleans, MA, also made an appearance.
Perhaps the most fun part of the event to photograph were the visitors. Some of the visitors dressed up for the event. While others decided to wear fancy headwear and get their faces painted!
Although I didn’t partake, there were many restaurants and bars to rest and fuel up at during the event. However, I don’t know if corned beef was on their menus.
New England Nomad 