Newburyport Pride Celebration – Newburyport Shows its True Colors

By Jodi Coburn, Newburyport.com Correspondent
Jodi is a freelance writer and former English teacher who has spent her entire life on the North Shore. She spends her time spoiling her dogs and children, doing craft projects, and thinking about Disney World.

Newburyport Pride will feature will feature a series of events from Thursday, June 1st through Tuesday, June 6th in addition to the month long Newburyport Pride Art Exhibit at the NAA, a great opportunity for the city to show its true colors. All are invited to participate in these welcoming North Shore Pride Month festivities; a collective local effort designed to unite and expand the celebration far beyond the Newburyport community. In addition to the Newburyport Pride Events, many other local businesses and organizations are also hosting events throughout Pride Month.

For LGBTQ+ people, “community” might mean, at minimum, acceptance, inclusion, respect, and equality. In Newburyport, all people are valued, but Newburyport Pride in the Port goes beyond the mere minimums and truly celebrates this specific segment of its population and visitors.

There is a plethora of ways that organizations and businesses are showing the love: restaurant events, dance parties, inspirational speakers, entertainment, store specials, music, teen activities, a parade, beach party, and even special NBPT Pride Merch. Newburyport Pride has something for everyone, so you can bring the kids, the grandparents, and even the pooches. Check out the Newburyport Pride events’ summary below and visit the Newburyport Events Calendar for more detailed information on each event.

Newburyport Pride Month 2023 Events:

NBPT Pride Sunset Club kick-off Thurs. 6/1 from 4-8 p.m.
NBPT Pride City Hall Flag Raising Ceremony w/keynote speaker Governor Maura Healey Fri. 6/2 from 4-5 p.m.
NBPT Pride LGBTQ Dance & Comedy Event at NBPT Elks Fri. 6/2 from 6:30-10 p.m.
Youth Pride Dance at City Hall Fri. 6/2 from 7-9 p.m.
NBPT Pride Parade on Green Street Sat. 6/3 from 12-1 p.m.
NBPT Pride Tea-Dance at Bar25 Sat. 6/3 from 1-5 p.m.
NBPT Pride Concert, “The Woman Who Rode Away” at the Firehouse Sat. 6/3 from 8-10:30 p.m.
NBPT Pride Brunch Fundraiser @ Paddle Inn Supporting, The Point Foundation, Sun. 6/4, 10-3 p.m.
NBPT Pride Welcoming Service at First Religious Unitarian Universalist Sun. 6/4 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
NBPT Pride Non-denominational speaker Kimm Topping Sun. 6/4 from 12:30-1:30 p.m.
NBPT Pride Pawrty Hosted by Sweet Paws Rescue & Riverwalk Sun. 6/4 from 12-4 p.m.
NBPT Pride Full Moon Drumming & Closing Ceremonies Plum Island Main Beach Sun. 6/4, 8:30-9:30 p.m.
NBPT DOCUFEST, “How to Survive a Plague” at the Screening Room Mon. 6/5 from 7-9:30 p.m.
Jeanne Geiger Healthy Teen Relationships Workshop at City Hall Tues. 6/6 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
NBPT Pride Week Finale Beach Party, Fri. 6/9 from 6-9 pm
Pride in the Port Sunset Cruise – Sat. 6/10 from 7-10 pm on the Merrimack River
NBPT Pride Art Exhibit at the Newburyport Art Association from 6/1 – 6/30. Open daily Tues – Sun.

For quick visibility to Newburyport Pride Events, download the Newburyport App and select, Events Calendar. Just search, “Newburyport” in the App Store or Play Store and download the free app. If you are unable to make it to Newburyport in person, you can view some of the festivities on the Newburyport.com Live Web Cams, also accessible through the Newburyport App.

Pride Month is meant to encourage LGBTQ+ people to be proud of who they are (in a world that can often make that difficult), and that’s certainly important, but the Pride in the Port event is also meant to show LGBTQ+ residents and visitors that Newburyport is proud to have them. As Mayor Sean Reardon said, “We are committed to being a city that is welcoming to all, and to creating…safe spaces and positive experiences for all…people.”

For more LGBTQ+ and Pride resources, check out: Newburyport Pride, Newburyport Public Library, Newburyport Youth Services, and NAGLY (North Shore Alliance of GLBTQ Youth).

Spring Fest – Newburyport’s Annual Spring Festival

By Caitlin Dowling, Newburyport.com Correspondent
Caitlin is a freelance editor/writer and former news producer for CNN. As a local mom of three, her family can be found enjoying all Newburyport has to offer, from strolling downtown to biking the rail trail to swimming at the beach.

Newburyport’s Spring Fest 2023, an annual spring festival guaranteed to entertain the whole family, is where you’ll want to be. Stroll the streets of our coastal town June 3rd and 4th from 12 – 5 pm both days and enjoy a day filled with delicious food, shopping, and entertainment.

This year’s Spring Fest will be held behind the Firehouse on Waterfront Park. Watch on stage performances by local artists and performers, shop the waterfront artisan fair and don’t forget to pre-order a picnic meal from one of the many local restaurants!

Newburyport, already a destination for exceptional restaurants, waterfront views and unique local stores, is a must visit for Spring Fest with the addition of local arts and crafts vendors along the waterfront as well as live entertainment geared toward all ages.

Swing by Waterfront Park both Saturday and Sunday for lots of fun entertainment and performances by local artists on the Waterfront Stage!

Grab a tasty snack on-the-go or relax at one of the many outdoor cafes like Sea Level, Brine, Paddle Inn and Oregano, to take in the bustle as you dine. Work off all that delicious food strolling the waterfront boardwalk, let the kids blow off some steam at the Inn Street playground, and then treat yourself to some gelato!

From clothing to one of a kind art work to home decor, if you’re looking for a special gift or simply something for yourself, Newburyport’s downtown shops, as well as the local vendors at this Spring festival, are bound to have what you’re looking for. And don’t forgot to take a walk over to the Tannery for even more local shopping.

This year’s Spring Fest is organized and hosted by the Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with The Newburyport Arts Collective and Newburyport Art Association. The Chamber continuously works to promote the city and all the great things it has to offer, this event will not disappoint locals and tourists alike. Newburyport.com is a proud media partner to the Chamber and happy to help promote broad awareness of all major community events hosted by the Chamber.

In addition, during Spring Fest, you can purchase the Newburyport VIP Loyalty Card and $10 of your purchase will be donated to the Chamber Beautification Program. The Chamber Beautification Program is responsible for the beautiful hanging flower baskets around town, holiday decor, and other decorations around our beautiful city.

The Newburyport App/VIP Loyalty Card rewards card holders with discounts EACH TIME they make purchases at many Greater Newburyport participating Restaurants and Shops. Purchase one card for $25 or two for $40 and $10 of your purchase will be donated to the Chamber Beautification Program. You can purchase directly through the “Newburyport” App or purchase online. Choose between a Digital VIP Card in the Newburyport App or a Physical VIP Card.

We hope to see you at Spring Fest 2023! If you can’t make it, check out the festivities on our Newburyport.com Live Web Cams.

Spring Fest 2018 Video

Newburyport Garden Tour Hosted by the Museum of Old Newbury

The 2023 Newburyport Garden Tour hosted by the Museum of Old Newbury, will take place on June 10th & 11th from 10 am – 4 pm. If you have an appreciation for beautiful homes and outdoor entertaining, the 43rd Garden Tour is a must! Explore 11 stunning gardens ranging from professionally landscaped horticultural design to garden enthusiast with an eye for design. This is an extremely popular annual event so make sure to purchase tickets early for reduced pricing through May 31st. You may also want to consider purchasing a Museum of Old Newbury membership to receive discounts on many amazing events throughout the year. Tickets will also be available for purchase the day of the event at the Museum of Old Newbury, 98 High Street Newburyport.

Our Newburyport.com feature video provides a view of the beautiful South End home of Paul Goldberg & Joe Bell Garden, captured during the 2019 tour.

Private gardens, including the museum’s own Cushing Garden, will be on the garden tour, all within a short drive throughout Newburyport, Newbury, Amesbury and Rowley. Stops on the garden tour will showcase sweeping landscapes, views of the Merrimack River, creative features, and wide varieties of plants and flowers. Along with beautiful landscaping, tour-goers will also be treated to various artists and musicians at work in different gardens.

Along with the Cushing Garden, The Cushing House itself will also be open to tour free of charge. This historic ship captain’s home, filled with 400 years of local history. The Museum of Old Newbury, founded in 1877, preserves and interprets the history of “Old Newbury” from pre-settlement to the present. All proceeds from the event benefit the museum’s education programs and preservation projects.

If your visiting Newburyport from outside the area, view Newburyport.com recommendations for places to stay and consider purchasing a Newburyport VIP Card and receive discounts at Places to: Eat, Shop, Stay and Experience.

Newburyport Lantern Festival Supporting Ovarian Cancer Awareness

Newburyport Lantern Festival, Newburyport MA

In observance of National Ovarian Cancer Month, Greater Newburyport Ovarian Cancer Awareness (GNOCA) will host the 2023 annual Newburyport Lantern Festival, at Bartlet Mall, on Sunday, July 2, 2023. This special event starts at 6:30 pm and the floating ceremony begins at 8:15 pm, just prior to dusk. The rain date is Monday, July 3rd, 2023. All are welcome to come and decorate, light, and float lanterns on Frog Pond at dusk. This well-attended ceremony is in the Asian tradition of remembering family and friends and making wishes for the future. Decorating materials and calligraphers will be available. The event is free, with a suggested donation of $10 per lantern. Lanterns can be purchased at the event and there are lots of markers and stencils available to help decorate lanterns. Lanterns can also be purchased in advance at Greetings by Design.

GNOCA, a volunteer organization, was founded in 2011. Its mission is to honor and improve women’s lives by promoting earlier detection, enhanced recovery and greater survival rates for ovarian cancer. GNOCA (www.ocawareness.org) seeks to increase awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer, to provide support services for women and families affected by ovarian cancer within the Greater Newburyport area, and to help fund ovarian cancer research.

Aside from direct assistance to local patients and their families, proceeds from GNOCA events go to Ovations for the Cure (ovationsforthecure.org), a nonprofit organization, in their promotion of knowledge of the disease, concrete hope and support for those already diagnosed, and significant scientific advancements leading to the cure.

Each year, over 21,000 women in America are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, but with a keener awareness of the subtle, earliest symptoms of this insidious disease, a 93 percent five-year survival rate can be achieved.

Over the past seven years, the Newburyport Lantern Festival has really grown, beginning with about 100 participants the first year and swelling to about 2,000 participants in subsequent years. Many view the occasion as a perfect time to take evocative photographs as the lit lanterns freely float along the water in the twilight.

The public is encouraged to bring picnics, blankets or lawn chairs to the Newburyport Lantern Festival. Live music, under the able leadership of Donna Ricci, will be featured throughout the evening.

Other 2023 events planned by GNOCA include a September 24^th a run/walk in honor of Jackie Poor and Paula Holm. Register now or sponsor a runner/walker.

For questions about events, or to learn more about GNOCA, please call Deb Green, at Greetings by Design, 978-225-6700, or email info@ocawareness.org.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Bloating
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Trouble eating or feeling full quickly
Urinary urgency or frequency
Gastrointestinal discomfort
Fatigue and/or fever
Unexplained weight gain or loss
Unexplained changes in bowel habits

UAV Look Drone Video of the 2015 Newburyport Lantern Festival

Plum Island Light House the Newburyport Harbor Light

By Laura Bentley, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Owner of Newburyport.Com, Laura manages Business Development, Fundraising, the VIP Program, Blogging and the Events Calendar.

Plum Island Light House/Newburyport Harbor Light

Guide Us Through the Channel

The Historic Plum Island Light House

The Plum Island Light House also know as the Plum Island Light or the Newburyport Harbor Light, has a very interesting history. It was first lit in 1788 with a lantern burning whale oil. And it was the 13^th lighthouse to be constructed in the U.S.. It was needed to guide boaters into the treacherous mouth of the Merrimack River and into Newburyport Harbor. The strong currents and shifting sands at the mouth of the harbor present a serious challenge to boaters to this day.

Newburyport Harbor was very active and important to the U.S. for whaling, fishing, shipbuilding, and trade. There were many ships coming in and out of Newburyport Harbor. Before the lighthouse was built, fires on the beach in Plum Island were used to guide mariners. It was the business people of Newburyport in the 1780s that paid to build the Plum Island Lighthouse. President George Washington appointed the first keeper of the Plum Island Lighthouse, Abner Lowell. And three generations of Lowells served as lighthouse keepers at the Plum Island Lighthouse.

There were storms that damaged and original Plum Island Lighthouse. In addition, shifting sands meant that the Lighthouse had to be moved several times.

The current lighthouse dates from 1898. Since 1927 the lighthouse has been powered by electricity. The last keeper left the Lighthouse in 1951 when the light was automated. Today the lighthouse flashes a green light to guide boaters. It is still very important to have this lighthouse in operation to guide boats safely through the turbulent area where the Merrimack River meets the Atlantic Ocean.

The Plum Island Lighthouse is located across from the Park River National Wildlife Refuge at the northern section of Plum Island.

Today the lighthouse is owned by the City of Newburyport. Friends of Plum Island Light lease it from the City and care for it. The grounds are open to the public. The Friends of Plum Island Light offer periodic public tours inside the Plum Island Lighthouse.

The picture perfect Plum Island Lighthouse is one of the great lighthouses to visit in New England and the North Shore. It’s a “must see” for any lighthouse enthusiast and worth the visit if you are in the Greater Newburyport area. For more general information on Plum Island attractions visit our Plum Island Beach page and check out our Plum Island Parking article for parking lot information.

Directions:

From the Newburyport Harbor Range Lights on Water Street in downtown Newburyport, continue east on Water Street for 1.3 miles, where Water Street will become Plum Island Turnpike. Follow the turnpike for 1.8 miles to Plum Island, and then turn left on Northern Boulevard. Continue on Northern Boulevard for 1.3 miles to the northern end of the island, where you will see the lighthouse on your left.

Plum Island Light House

263 Northern Boulevard
Newburyport, MA 01950
FriendsofpiLight@gmail.com

The Friends of Plum Island Light maintain the lighthouse and host lighthouse tours. Email to reserve a time.

Tour the Plum Island Light:

Tour the Plum Island Light: May 27th June 24th, July 22nd, August 5th & 26th or September 9th. Reserve a time slot on these days between 10 am – 12:45 pm. Each 15 minute time slot is limited to 5 people and only one person in the group needs to sign up. Reserve a time in advance and be aware that there are not any rain dates. All attendees must be a minimum of 5 years old and at least 42 inches high, and be wearing sturdy shoes. A suggested donation of $5 per person is greatly appreciated to help care for the Plum Island Lighthouse. If tours are fully booked, sometimes there might be opportunities to book a private tour, depending on various factors such as availability of volunteers.

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Walking Tours of Plum Island – Explore & Discover

Walking Tours of Plum Island, Newburyport MA

The Walking Tours of Plum Island, led by Bill Sargent of Plum Island Outdoors are wonderful way to explore and learn about this beautiful and fascinating barrier island. The 2023 tours will run every Sunday from 10 – 11:30 am from March through Memorial Day weekend. The summer schedule may have some modifications and will be released in May. These 90-minute walking tours, start at the North Point of the Island by the Plum Island Lighthouse, guide participants down to the South Jetty and return back to the North Point. The Walking Tours of Plum Island are held rain or shine so be prepared with rain gear if necessary. In the instance of cancellation due to severe weather, event changes will be communicated on the Plum Island Outdoors facebook page. Given the length and significant walking, this tour may not be appropriate for young children.

During these beautiful walks there is much to explore and discover. You will see horseshoe crabs, woolly mammoth, terns, and striped bass. Investigate the Coast Guard archaeology site and speculate on whether some of the artifacts could have been used to set U-boat nets across the Merrimack River.

Visit the Sand Machine where up to an acre of sand flows through natural weirs in the South Jetty during high course tides and view impacts of beach erosion and the dredging project that is being done to protect and restore the Reservation Terrace area of Plum Island and the Newburyport Harbor. Learn about ongoing collaborative efforts of: local residents, the Army Corps of Engineers, local nonprofits and politicians at all levels; as they have joined together to implement both short and long term solutions to rebuild and preserve this cherished beach and home.

Walking Tours of Plum Island participation cost is $10 per person cash at the start of the tour. Participants can park in the North Point Newburyport Beach parking lot. The weekend parking lot cost is $20 for non-residents and $12 for Newburyport residents with a valid Plum Island Beach Parking lot sticker. The What should you bring for the trip? We recommend a camera, sensible shoes and a keen sense of humor!

Bill Sargent is well respected as an authority on this beautiful area of Plum Island and has been featured by many local and regional publications. Bill is the author of over 20 books about science and the environment, including “Islands in the Storm”, “Plum Island 4000 Years on a Barrier Beach,” and “Plum Island 2016.”

Plum Island Aerial Video Views:

Yankee Homecoming Waiter and Waitress Race

The Yankee Homecoming Waiter and Waitress Race is absolutely one of the most entertaining events of the week! Come show your support for our local Newburyport & Plum Island restaurants and cheer for your favorite waiters and waitresses at the 2023 Yankee Homecoming Waiter and Waitress Race. On Monday, July 31st, 2023 at 4:30 pm on Liberty Street local waitstaff will race down the street carrying full trays to compete for an honorary title and cash prizes. Check out Newburyport VIP on Instagram for totally different versions of our Waiter & Waitress videos.

Congratulations to the 2022 overall restaurant winner voted to have the most spirit, Plum Island Beachcoma! Amazing job by all of the racers. Below were the 2022 individual race winners.

1^stAnchor Pizza – Leanne Paparella (3rd time with 1st place)
1^stOregano – Gabriel Sambataro

2^nd Port Tavern – Olivia Coppinger
2^ndCarmine’s – JD Horne

The Yankee Homecoming Waiter and Waitress Race, created to showcase all of the delicious dining options in Newburyport area restaurants, will feature local VIP celebrity judges. Mayor Sean Reardon, Tristan Horan: Actor, Musician, Composer and former Sea Level Server and Laura Bentley: VIP from our local media company Newburyport.com.

This is an opportunity for local restaurants to showcase their menus and specials and drive Yankee Homecoming crowds in for a meal. It’s advertising at no cost to the restaurants. In fact, participating restaurants are encouraged to display their menu and any Yankee Homecoming specials, promotions, on a board at the finish line.

All Newburyport and Plum Island waiters and waitresses, eighteen years and older, are welcome to compete in the Yankee Homecoming Waiter and Waitress Race. Not in the industry? Come by to cheer on your favorite waitstaff as they walk/run from Fair Street down Liberty Street carrying trays piled high with full glasses! The top 3 female waitresses and top 3 male waiters to cross the finish line first with dry trays will move on to the final challenge, yet another diner dash, but with the addition of obstacles.

The male and female winners will each earn very substantial tips: 1st place $450, and 2nd place, $200. The restaurant with the best overall performance/spirit will earn the traveling trophy, as well as bragging rights as the fastest staff in town, until the following year.

Thinking about entering the race? Brush up on the rules and register here. Only waitstaff from local Newburyport and Plum Island restaurants may compete. Registration fees are waived this year for the Yankee Homecoming Waiter and Waitress Race.

Congratulations to all of our amazing local restaurants and thank you to all who have participated! Enjoy prior year videos and see winners lists below.

2021 Overall Restaurant Winner – Brick & Ash

2021 Waiter & Waitress Winners:
1^st Anchor – Leanne Paparella
1^st Bar 25 – Joey Nickerson

2^nd Michael’s – Erin Leary
2^nd Bar 25 – Andrew Vignati

3^rd Poynt – Cassie Harding
3^rd Michael’s – Chase Pantelis

2019 Overall Restaurant Winner – Anchor Pizza

2019 Waiter & Waitress Winners:
1^st Anchor – Leanne Paparella
1^st Bob Lobster – Sam Fitzpatrick

2^nd Sea Level – Margaux Munick
2^nd Poynt – Chad Flinkman

2019 Yankee Homecoming Waiter & Waitress Video – Newburyport VIP

Check out 2019 Newburyport.com videos of Sea Level Oyster Bar and Oregano Ristorante waitstaff practicing for the big event!

This 2019 Sea Level video features Madeline Walsh (left) and Margaux Munick (right).

This 2019 Oregano’s video below features Gabriel Sambataro (left) and Lindsey Howland (right).

Art on Bartlet Mall – The Premier Yankee Homecoming Art Show

By Laura Bentley, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Owner of Newburyport.Com, Laura manages Business Development, Fundraising, the VIP Program, Blogging and the Events Calendar.

Come experience Art on Bartlet Mall 2023, Saturday July 29th and Sunday the 30th from 10 AM – 4 PM. In Newburyport on the corner of High Street and Pond Street, the art is exceptional, and the setting is picturesque. Art on Bartlet Mall is a Newburyport tradition for the past 42 years. Enjoy works from over 60 local and regional artists showing all media of work, including a few hand-pulled printing artists. The artists are from Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and even New Jersey. There are award winners in over half of the participants.

Stroll along the path that surround the pond and features a beautiful fountain in the center. Bartlet Mall is the setting for the premier Yankee Homecoming art show and is one of the most photographed places in Newburyport. The 2nd day of the show shares the space and coincides with another major Newburyport family tradition, Olde Fashioned Sunday. Art on Bartlet Mall is a free event for the public to attend. Participating artists pay a fee to feature their art and these fees are used to support the Yankee Homecoming Committee efforts.

If you work up an appetite after enjoying the beautiful works of art, you could take a walk down to visit one of the the many wonderful restaurants in downtown Newburyport. If you are a live music fan make sure to stick around for the Sunday night Waterfront Concert.

If you appreciate dining and shopping in our local community, you can support the Yankee Homecoming Fireworks by purchasing or renewing your Newburyport VIP Card. The VIP Program allows you to enjoy discounts at many local 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. The Newburyport App includes a direct link to the Newburyport.com Events Calendar making it simple to stay in the know about events and happenings in Newburyport and surrounding towns.

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

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

Yankee Homecoming Brewfest Fundraiser

Get ready for the 2023 Yankee Homecoming Brewfest Fundraiser on Saturday, July 29th from 5 – 9 pm. Brewfest takes place rain or shine along the beautiful shoreline of the Merrimack River under a huge tent located at Cashman Park. Yankee Homecoming Brewfest is the ideal opportunity to satisfy your curiosity about local craft beers, discover some new breweries or revisit some of your favorite brews! The event is host to over 20 local and regional breweries featuring over 40 local craft beers and ciders. Come sample some new styles and varieties of craft beers and view the list of participating breweries below.

The following is the list of 2023 Yankee Homecoming Brewfest participants. Allagash, Athletic Brewing Company LLC, Cisco Brewers, Jack’s Abby, Kona Brewing Co, Night Shift, Nutrl, Sloop Brewing Co., Stella Artois, Three Floyds Brewing Co., LLC, Troegs, True North, Von Trapp Brewing, and Worm Town. Check back as the list of confirmed participants may still increase.

In addition to an excellent selection of beers, Brewfest will offer tasty food options as well: Fat Belly BBQ, OTTO Pizza, Pete’s Pushcart Catering, Rico’s Burrito Food Truck, North Shore Beefie Boys, and Super Star Ice Cream.

While Yankee Homecoming features many events for families and people of all ages, Brewfest is a really fun occasion exclusively for adults! Only folks aged 21+ with a valid form of identification will be admitted. No children or pets are permitted. Make sure to purchase tickets for Yankee Homecoming Brewfest as soon as possible because this popular event sells out every year. Note, that Brewfest will happen rain or shine. We like to assume that the weather will be perfect “glass half full”…. but check the forecast and be prepared to keep the party going…even if your umbrella becomes necessary.

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 180 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

Image by Jenny Coyle of https://www.facebook.com/jennycoylephotography/

Newburyport Bed Racing – A Favorite Event of Locals!

By Laura Bentley, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Owner of Newburyport.Com, Laura manages Business Development, Fundraising, the VIP Program, Blogging and the Events Calendar.

When is Newburyport Bed Racing? Mark your calendar for the 2023 Newburyport Lion’s Club Bed Races on Thursday, August 3rd at 6 pm on Federal Street in Newburyport. What is Newburyport Bed Racing? It’s a totally fun event during Yankee Homecoming week where folks design and build a bed that is used to race down Federal Street in Newburyport. The starting line is at the intersection of Federal Street and High Street, and the finish line is at the intersection of Federal Street and Water Street across from the Tannery.

You will find that the goals of participants are all different. Some are determined to win the race, others are excited to show off their cool bed creations and some are just busy waving at friends. Bed Racing is a very social Newburyport event. Most of the beds are designed and raced by local small businesses. Some of the creations are entertaining and others are impressive, but in all cases the fans get very excited to cheer for their favorite small businesses as they race or saunter down Federal Street.

All are encouraged to come enjoy this event, but if Bed Racing is one of your favorite events during Yankee Homecoming week, then you’re probably from the local Newburyport area as this event is an extremely popular tradition with the Newburyport locals. Bed Racing is an annual event hosted by the Newburyport Lion’s Club. Proceeds benefit the Newburyport Lions Club local charities (eye exams / glasses for the needy, annual Thanksgiving dinner, visual aids for the blind, high school scholarships, local food pantries, etc.).

Newburyport.com recommends arriving early at the bed races so that you have time to stop by the Rotary Club of Newburyport’s annual Beer & Hotdog Fundraiser from 5 – 7 pm in the Tannery parking lot. Support Local!

If you would like to enter the Bed Races, the registration fee is $30 per bed and you can register up until 6 pm on race day, but you must arrive at 5:00 pm for bed check in. Use the following link for 2023 registration and rule Contact Tara at 978-561-9755 or nbptlionsbedrace@yahoo.com with any questions. If by chance we have severe weather (not just rain) at race time, then this event will be moved to Friday, August 4th at 6 pm. Enjoy our Newburyport.com video coverage from 2015 through 2022 below.

Yankee Homecoming Sidewalk Sales – Shop Local

By Laura Bentley, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Owner of Newburyport.Com, Laura manages Business Development, Fundraising, the VIP Program, Blogging and the Events Calendar.

The Yankee Homecoming Sidewalk Sales are an annual Newburyport shopping event that take place each year from Thursday – Saturday of Yankee Homecoming week. The 2023 Sidewalk Sales are scheduled for: Thursday, 8/3 – Saturday 8/5 from 11 AM – 6 PM. It is important to note that the Sidewalk Sales hours represent a general guideline and that hours for each business are different. Some may close at 5 PM and others will choose to stay open until 8 or 9 PM. There are also a few shops that continue to host Sidewalk Sales on Sunday as well.

Whether you live locally or you’re just planning a visit, this is the perfect opportunity to find great end of the summer deals, all while helping Support Local retailers! The Newburyport downtown shopping area offers a broad range of shops, from clothing and accessories to home decor, children’s fashions, specialty foods, sporting goods and much more. If you’re from the area maybe the Sidewalk Sales can be the inspiration that gets you downtown to discover new shops that you weren’t previously aware of and if you’re visiting from outside of the area, we welcome you and thank you for choosing to visit Newburyport!

While you are out shopping and visiting our Newburyport retailers and restaurants between July 29th and August 6th, make sure to save your Newburyport shopping and restaurant receipts over $20 so that you can enter the Yankee Homecoming Support Local Content! Take a picture of your receipt and email it to SupportLocal@YankeeHomecoming.com along with the following details: your full name, mailing address and the name of the Newburyport business you would like a gift card from, if you are selected as a winner. Three winners will be randomly drawn on August 12th to receive a $100 gift certificate and there is no limit to how many times you can enter.

If you dine and shop frequently in the Greater Newburyport area, you should consider purchasing/renewing or renewing your Newburyport VIP Discount Card and $10 of your purchase can be donated to the Yankee Homecoming Fireworks Fund. Choose a traditional Physical VIP Card or the Digital VIP Card inside of the Newburyport App and enjoy discounts EACH TIME you use it at participating businesses. Local restaurants and retailers offer discounts as way to encourage folks to shop and dine locally and to build loyalty towards supporting local businesses.

Annual Yankee Homecoming Parade To March Down High Street

The annual Yankee Homecoming Parade will march down High Street on Sunday, August 6th 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 Federal 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 theme for this year’s Yankee Homecoming, now in its 65th year, is “There’s Only One Newburyport” focusing on celebrating the long history of Newburyport’s cherished tradition with a strong appreciation to be reunited with family and friends. Many floats and performances will represent this theme in the Yankee Homecoming Parade.

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. Non-profit 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 29th and ending with the annual Yankee Coming Parade. To find even more ways to join in the celebrations, check out all of the events listed on our calendar.

Video of 2018 Parade

US Coast Guard Open House – A Yankee Homecoming Historic Tour

By Laura Bentley, Newburyport.Com Correspondent
Owner of Newburyport.Com, Laura manages Business Development, Fundraising, the VIP Program, Blogging and the Events Calendar.

Whether you have a little Coast Guard in training at home, or you would like to meet the men and women that protect our city, the US Coast Guard Open House has something for everyone. The Merrimack River Coast Guard Station, located in downtown Newburyport at 65B Water Street, will be opening its doors to the public Thursday, August 3rd, from 10 am to 2 pm, for a special day of tours and information.

As part of the town’s Yankee Homecoming celebrations, The US Coast Guard Open House offers a special opportunity for locals and tourists to step inside this iconic station. Visitors are welcome to explore the different areas within, all which will be manned by crew members offering information and taking questions. And perhaps one of the most exciting parts of the visit, is the opportunity to step aboard some of the US Coast Guard boats. While the boats will remain at the station, boat enthusiasts will be allowed to explore the decks while learning about special features. Make sure to bring your cameras and snap a pic in the Captain’s seat!

A special boating safety stand will also be set up at the station, offering up information and tips on how to navigate a boat safely. Learn about some of the challenges our local waters present, the hazards of the Merrimack River entrance, and life saving techniques.

For those visiting with little sea farers in tow, the Coast Guard Open House will also have Coastie on hand. The Coast Guard’s robot boat is equipped with navigation, searchlights, a rotating beacon, siren and air horn, sure to impress the little ones. Coastie will interact with young boaters and teach safety rules like “always swim with a buddy in a supervised area”. Watch out though, Coastie is also equipped with a squirt gun that he is known to use to get a laugh from the kids, so don’t be surprised if you get a little wet.

Newburyport, designated one of only 21 Coast Guard cities, is the birthplace of the Coast Guard. The Merrimack River Coast Guard Station is the home to the men and women protecting our waters with search, rescue and law enforcement. This Coast Guard Open House is a great opportunity to meet and interact with the crew of our local station and thank them for their hard work.

For a full list of events happening during Newburyport’s Yankee Homecoming week visit the Newburyport Events Calendar and consider supporting the Yankee Homecoming Fireworks fund by purchasing a Newburyport VIP Discount Card.

Newburyport ArtWalk 2023

By Joe, Joe

Newburyport ArtWalk 2023 – Explore Step by Step

A Walking Tour Featuring Exceptional Local Art

A Community of Talent – Newburyport ArtWalk

The Newburyport ArtWalk is a FREE, self-guided tour that allows you to explore art galleries throughout Newburyport’s Historic District as well as a few galleries just beyond the downtown area. The 2023 ArtWalk will be held on Saturday, April 29th and Saturday, September 30th from 10 am – 6 pm. Artists from the area will showcase special exhibits, participate in discussions about their art and offer demonstrations. This is a wonderful opportunity to support the local artist community, meet local artists and discover new found inspiration.

You will receive a free brochure and map to assist you on your journey. These items can be found at the Newburyport Chamber of Commerce, and the passageway between State and Inn Streets, as well as at ArtWalk Partner locations.

While you’re enjoying the ArtWalk, make sure to explore Newburyport’s many wonderful retail shops and relax at one of our many excellent local Newburyport restaurants. If you’re planning a visit from outside the area, consider booking a room in one of our wonderful local Inn’s.

The Newburyport ArtWalk events are funded by annual dues from the local participating art galleries. Please help support the local artist community by attending the ArtWalk, telling friends and family and by sharing on your social media pages. Support Local!

The first image in this article is from inside Valerie’s Gallery at State Street and the second image features Allen Bull’s 2022 Calendar.

For more info, please visit the Newburyport ArtWalk or their Facebook.com/NewburyportArtWalk.

Newburyport ArtWalk Map Spring 2023

ArtWalk 2023 Schedule

April 29th
September 30th

Saturday from 10 am – 6 pm

ArtWalk Participants

Things to Do

Top-rated attractions, National Parks and historic tours are among the many things to do in Newburyport.

Plum Island Light House the Newburyport Harbor Light

Tour the Plum Island Light House: May 27th, June 24th, July 22nd, August 5 & 26th or September 9th. It was the 13th lighthouse to be constructed in the US, helping guide boaters into the treacherous mouth of the Merrimack River and into Newburyport Harbor.

Bartlet Mall

Bartlet Mall, a gorgeous historic park at the intersection of Pond and High Streets, is a great place for ice-skating, sledding, and enjoying nature. Its scenic views provide the setting for a wide variety of popular community events. There are wide walkways and a series of footpaths that border the Mall and lead to the Frog Pond. It has also become a highly photographed area by many local photographers.