Yankee Homecoming Waiter and Waitress Race

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.

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.

Yankee Homecoming Olde Fashioned Sunday – A Classic Family Event

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

Are you ready for a day of outdoor fun, games, and entertainment? Get ready for Yankee Homecoming Olde Fashioned Sunday 2023! This year’s event will be held Sunday, July 30th from 10 AM to 4 PM. This is a classic Newburyport family event where children of all ages enjoy a fun and exciting array of activities. The setting for Yankee Homecoming Olde Fashioned Sunday is on Bartlet Mall, a beautiful and picturesque area at the intersection of Pond Street and High Street in Newburyport.

This event is an opportunity to kick off Yankee Homecoming week in Newburyport while making wonderful memories with family and friends. There are so many fun activities to enjoy. Yankee Homecoming Olde Fashioned Sunday begins with folks displaying their favorite pets on stage. There will be entertainers playing music and performing dances from the 1960s. This is a great opportunity for folks to wear clothing from the era, including bell-bottom pants and tie-dye shirts!

Art on Bartlet Mall is another very popular event that takes place at the same time and location as Olde Fashioned Sunday. There will be regional artists displaying and selling their amazing original work on Bartlet Mall. You can enjoy Art on Bartlet Mall both Saturday, July 29th as well as Sunday, July 30th during Olde Fashioned Sunday. Art on Bartlet Mall runs from 10 AM – 4 PM each day.

Kids will love the free activities at the Family Midway event. Enjoy some old fashioned games as a family, such as the potato sack race and three legged races. Kids can take a pony ride, enjoy face painting, and train rides around the pond! There will also be a classic car display, water safety tips, K9 demonstrations, and many exciting competitions on the lower green. Events and activities are similar each year. The Yankee Homecoming volunteers are working hard to finalize the 2023 Olde Fashioned Sunday events. The official schedule will be posted below as soon as they are announced. View the 2022 schedule below for general details of this fun family event.

2022 Olde Fashioned Sunday Events Schedule – 2023 TBA Soon!

Roaming Railroad Rides & Pony Rides – 10:00am – 3:00pm
Down by the pond, make sure to take pictures of the kids’ smiling faces.

Midway Games – 10:00am – 3:00pm
Come enjoy some olde time fun and win prizes.

Vendor Row – 10:00am – 4:00pm
Enjoy some food, ice cream and activities

Pet Show sponsored by Bartlett’s Cove Pet Care – 10:30am
Registration at 10:00 visit Bartlett’s Cove Facebook page for more information

Antique and Classic Cars – 10:30am – 1:00pm
Step back in time and admire the classic stylings and muscle of years gone by.

Beginners Cornhole Tournament (cost $40 per team) – 10:30am
View registration information

Opening Ceremonies and the Raising of the Flag – 11:30am
Main stage and the corner of High St and Pond St. The big start of the
week’s festivities.

Family Fun Competition – 2:30pm – 3:30pm
Come enjoy some good olde fun, some friendly competition and win
some prizes too.

Potato Sack Race
Three Legged Race
Hula Hoop
Water Balloon Toss – Pre-register at volunteer table next to the Main stage 10am – 1pm

When you get hungry during Yankee Homecoming Olde Fashioned Sunday there will be plenty of vendors cooking up delicious snacks. There will also be old-fashioned candy and popcorn available for purchase. That’s right, there will be tasty candy and snacks. Enjoy the beginning of Yankee Homecoming week and all the fun events for people of all ages at Yankee Homecoming Olde Fashioned Sunday!

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 130 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

Yankee Homecoming Fireworks 2022 Blast Off Saturday

Yankee Homecoming Fireworks, Newburyport

The 2022 Yankee Homecoming fireworks are set to make a bang Saturday, August 6th at 9:15 pm with their annual display over the Merrimack River. Pack up your lawn chairs, bring blankets and snacks and grab a spot in town to watch the sky light up at one of Yankee Homecoming’s biggest and brightest events of the week.

With the Yankee Homecoming fireworks going off from a barge in the river, there are tons of places around town to catch an unobstructed view of this illuminating show. Get in on the excitement and grab a spot among the crowds on the boardwalk, Route 1 bridge or Salisbury shoreline to hear the cheers of crowds and the sounds of the boats honking. Or make a night of it and set up camp early to dance to the live music of the Foreigners Journey Band, a high energy band specializing in two legendary stadium rock bands, at the Waterfront Park music series, beginning at 7:15 pm. Pop into one of downtown’s numerous restaurants to grab a bite to go or stroll through the food stands set up in the square and pick up dinner and treats to enjoy during or after the show.

If you have a boat, anchoring in the river is a great way to get up close to the show and avoid the crowds. But if you don’t have a boat of your own, you can still hit the open waters for the show. Many local companies offer up special Yankee Homecoming fireworks excursions, from party boats with live music to more low key family oriented atmospheres. Check out Captains Fishing Cruises and Parties and The Yankee Clipper Harbor Boat Tours to name a few.

Letting your little ones stay up late for this special event? Pack a picnic dinner and head to Cashman Park to set up your blanket and chairs along the river. Your tiny spectators can enjoy the playground with other excited kids up past their bedtime while waiting for the festivities to start.

No matter where you choose to watch, come early to claim your viewing spot and enjoy the buzzing downtown area on this special night filled with live music, entertainment, food and shopping. Be sure to check our Events Calendar for any changes or updates do to weather. If by chance you were searching for 4th of July weekend fireworks, you can view our VIP recommendations for places near Newburyport.

If you would like to support the Yankee Homecoming fireworks, consider purchasing a Newburyport VIP Card today. The VIP Card gives you discounts EVERY TIME you make purchases at 180 local restaurants and shops and you can choose between a Digital VIP Card in the Newburyport App or a Physical VIP Card. Purchase one for $25 or two for $40 and donate $10 of your purchase to the Yankee Homecoming Fireworks Fund.

Kids Day in the Park – An Exchange Club Family Event

By Elizabeth de Veer, Newburyport.com Correspondent
Elizabeth de Veer is a writer who lives in Georgetown, MA. Her hobbies include organizing her elementary school-age daughter and chasing her labradoodle. Favorite coffee: hot. Favorite Beatles album: Sgt. Pepper. Favorite naughty food: lobster roll and fries. Her first novel is due to be published in winter 2019.

Mark your calendar for Kids Day in the Park 2022, scheduled for Wednesday, August 3rd from 10 am – 2 pm in Atkinson Common Park. Kids Day is one of the many family focused annual events hosted during Yankee Homecoming week. Atkinson Common Park! This free event hosted by the Exchange Club of Newburyport, is one of the highlights of Yankee Homecoming week for many kids, featuring all the best stuff from childhood. Kids Day in the Park in an opportunity to create lifelong memories with your children. For many families this event has become an annual tradition, along with Olde Fashioned Sunday and Family Day.

Kids Day in the Park starts with a parade for decorated bikes and doll carriages, with prizes for the best ones! After that, kids can get their faces painted by volunteers from the high school art department, experience Theater in the Open – featuring the famous giraffe! – relax with a story organized by the Newburyport Library, participate in a sing-along with Steve Swochak, Music Director at the Immaculate Conception, and watch a police department K9 demonstration. Kids Day in the Park also lets youngsters see what it feels like behind the wheel in official vehicles from the City Fire Department, the Police Department and the Department of Public Works. There’s also food! Boston Sports Club of Salisbury will bring and grill an assortment of burgers and dogs and the folks at Polar Seltzer are sending cans of bubbly water. On top of that, there will be watermelon, ice cream, and what else? It’s all free!

Kids Day in the Park is hosted by the Newburyport Exchange Club, a service organization that has existed since 1976 and focuses on four service areas: youth services, preventing child abuse, honoring America and community service. Kids Day in the Park has been organized as part of the Yankee Homecoming events since 2005, and Exchange Club members enjoy working with other community organizations to make this special day lots of fun and free for families.

Yankee Homecoming Road Races 2023 – A Newburyport Tradition

The 62nd Annual Yankee Homecoming Road Races hosted by the Newburyport Lion’s Club will be held Tuesday, August 1st 2023. The Yankee Homecoming 10 Mile and 5K races are a wonderful tradition in Newburyport. The 5K race starts at 6 pm and the 10 mile race starts at 6:10 pm, with the start and the finish of the races at Newburyport High School.

It’s hard to believe that the Yankee Homecoming Road Races started with 30 runners in 1960. It has grown drastically in popularity with thousands of runners participating each year! Early August can be toasty for runners and spectators. Be sure to hydrate well and stay hydrated! There are water stops along the courses and there are plenty of refreshments available in Newburyport before, during, and after the races. If race day is hot you will even find a few residents along the route offering the option for runners to cool off as the run through a refreshing hose mist. You’re certain to feel the adrenaline rush with the exceptional fan participation and thousands of competitive runners. The locals are out there every step of the course cheering and trying to spot friends and family as they speed by in the sea of color.

The Yankee Homecoming Road Races are an ideal opportunity for runners to challenge themselves, and to enjoy the beautiful Newburyport scenery! This event is a wonderful way for runners to enjoy the gorgeous historic neighborhoods and coastline of Newburyport. It’s known as one of the best road races in the region and offers family-friendly fun. The course takes runners along the ocean and through quintessential New England streets.

Information about the registration process, race pricing, and course maps for the Yankee Homecoming Road Races is available on the Lions Club website. The cost of entering the races are $35 (5K) on race day and $45 (10 mile), Tuesday, August 2nd, 2022. Everyone registered before July 9th will receive a commemorative short-sleeve tech race shirt. After that date, shirts cannot be be guaranteed – register early!

If you are one of the first 2000 people to register you will receive a Yankee Homecoming Road Race T-Shirt. T-shirts are also available on race day for purchase. All finishers will receive a custom finisher medal with a sublimated neck ribbon. Proceeds from the races will go to support the Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Fund, which benefits eye research in innovative Massachusetts.

Contact the dedicated organizers of the Yankee Homecoming Road Races with any questions you may have about the races and check the Newburyport.com Events Calendar for details of all other Yankee Homecoming Events including the Newburyport Bed Racing, also hosted by the Newburyport Lion’s Club.

Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Morning Workouts – Sponsored by AJH

Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Morning Workouts, Newburyport, MA

The Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Morning Workouts are back for another full week of great classes with amazing views of the Newburyport waterfront. These free classes, all put on by local fitness businesses, are a great opportunity to get some exercise and even try a new type of class—there’s something for everyone and every fitness level. Sponsored by Newburyport’s own Anna Jaques Hospital, the waterfront workouts are an entire week of wellness opportunities—a fitting match for a hospital that strives to keep its community healthy.

Located right off the Newburyport boardwalk on the lawn in front of Sea Level Oyster Bar, the Waterfront Morning Workouts take place each morning during Yankee Homecoming week. From bootcamp to yoga, there are a wide variety of classes offered to fit all ages and levels. Classes are free and open to the public, so sample and try as many as you would like. Love a class you take? Continue on your fitness journey by visiting the company’s local studio. The article image features a prior year waterfront workout class hosed by Sarah Oleson Yoga.

A big thank you to Yankee Homecoming for supporting local and organizing the waterfront workouts. This event helps to promote awareness for local fitness businesses and gives our community a chance to kick off their day with a FREE class that will energize them while enjoying the natural beauty of the Newburyport waterfront.

Sunday, July 31st through Sunday, August 7th, 2022:

Sunday, July 31st 8:00AM – Pilates Fusion in the Park with The Mom Comm
A full body class blending the principles of Pilates with strength + cardio exercises. We will work to strengthen our core and pelvic floor muscles, correct postural imbalances, increase flexibility, and enhance mind-body awareness.

Sunday, July 31st 9:15 AM – YWCA Greater Newburyport
Ilene Harnch-Grady, YWCA Health and Wellness Director: Hatha Yoga – This gentle yoga class is appropriate for all fitness levels incorporating basic asanas (poses) both standing and on the mat ending with a metta meditation. Please bring a mat.

Monday, August 1st 8:00 AM – AWAKE MINDS
Join Meghan Leighton from Awake Minds: Yoga & Conscious Living for an all levels vinyasa yoga class that includes poses and breathwork to support refreshment and coolness in summer months – based on yoga and Ayurveda (yoga’s sister science) recommendations for the summertime. Bring a mat, towel, and water bottle with you and get ready to flow!

Monday, August 1st 9:15 AM – YMCA OF NORTH SHORE
Fit for Life…Low impact fusion of resistance exercises and cardio vascular movements. Bands and weights will be provided. All levels are encouraged to participate.

Tuesday, August 2nd 8:00 AM – FUEL
Please join us for a strength, core, and cardio FUELtoGO mini band workout with Jessie Reardon. All levels of fitness are welcome. Please bring a yoga mat or towel, sneakers, and water.

Tuesday, August 2nd 9:15AM – Stroller Bootcamp with The Mom Comm
A full-body workout using your stroller! We will combine strength, cardio, and core together with your babe in tow! Pregnant moms and all levels are welcome. Little ones can stay in the stroller during class; older kids are welcome to come out and participate with us (we understand they get antsy!). Bring your own toys, snacks, and entertainment for them! Please bring your own mat and water. Prenatal + postnatal modifications will be provided. All fitness levels are welcome.

Wednesday, August 3rd 8:00 AM – FUEL
Please join us for a strength, core, and cardio FUELtoGO mini band workout with Jessie Reardon. All levels of fitness are welcome. Please bring a yoga mat or towel, sneakers, and water.

Wednesday, August 3rd 9:15 AM – Club Pilates
Our signature contemporary mat Pilates class will strengthen and lengthen your entire body. Experience the benefits of classical Pilates with a contemporary twist.

Thursday, August 4th 8:00 AM – Tokyo Joes

Thursday, August 4th 9:15 AM – YWCA Greater Newburyport
Jane Deliere YWCA Group Exercise/Aquatics Instructor: Hatha Yoga: – this gentle yoga class is appropriate for all fitness levels incorporating basic asanas (poses) both standing and on the mat. Please bring a mat.

Friday, August 5th 8:00 AM – Riverside Yoga
Move slowly into basic yoga postures while emphasizing breath work and simplicity. The class will include seated stretches, standing postures, and long cool-down into savasana. This class welcomes beginners and anyone wishing to balance their regular more vigorous yoga practice or exercise with a softer, mindful class. Appropriate for all levels.

Friday, August 5th 9:15 AM – Pure Bare
Pure Barre is a full-body, ballet-barre-based workout. The 50-minute class features low-impact movements that focus on tightening and toning your core, glutes and arms. Please bring a mat, water bottle, and a set of light hand weights if you have them!

Saturday, August 6th 8:00 AM – Motivate® Barre•Cardio•Nutrition
Motivate® Barre + Burn is a hybrid class that will utilize barre and cardio to increase heart rate and keep your body guessing. Each class is fresh and interesting so that you will never be bored. All the benefits of our classic barre class with an added endorphin push.

Saturday, August 6th 9:15 AM – F45 Salisbury MA
F45 is a combination of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), Circuit Training, and Functional Strength Training in a team environment.

Sunday, August 7th 8:00 AM – The Cure Studio
Live Music & Buti Yoga: join us for this rhythm.

Sunday, August 7th 9:15 AM – Kin Fitness
Fun-filled class of sports drills, bodyweight movements, fun games, and interval training. A whole-body workout for the whole family! Exercises will be modified for different ages and fitness levels.

The waterfront morning workouts are just one part of a much larger celebration—Yankee Homecoming. Be sure to check out our Events Calendar to find all of the fun events happening all week long in Newburyport.

Yankee Homecoming Golf Tournament – Geno Open

By Joe, Joe

Yankee Homecoming Golf Tournament

Three Strokes Under Par

Yankee Homecoming Golf Tournament – GENO Open 2022

The 2022 Yankee Homecoming Golf Tournament, GENO Open will be held on Monday, August 1st at Ould Newbury Golf Club. This event is sold out for The 2022 Yankee Homecoming Festivites. The Tournament which is open to both men and women, kicks off at 8 AM with a shogun scramble. The raffle and silent auction will run throughout the Yankee Homecoming Golf Tournament, GENO Open, followed by awarding of prizes with a cash bar cocktail hour. Be ready to play your best, as there is a $10,000 cash prize for getting a hole in one on the sixth hole!

After the Geno Open, participants and guests will proceed to the dock at Waterfront Park to board the Captains Lady at 4 PM for a dinner cruise hosted by the Starboard Galley Restaurant. The menu will include: Caesar Salad and pasta salad, Sirloin Steak Tips, Grilled Chicken and Shrimp, rolls & butter followed by Strawberry Shortcake.

The Yankee Homecoming Golf Tournament is always a very popular tournament so register ASAP by contacting Gary Greco at 978-462-1326 to reserve your spot. You can also reach out to Gary to sponsor a tee or donate a raffle prize.

The Yankee Homecoming Golf Tournament, Geno Open Cost is $150 Per Person (Includes Carts, Continental Breakfast, Lunch, Harbor Cruise & Dinner.) Guest fee is $30 to bring a spouse or guest on the Harbor Cruise. NET proceeds for this event go to support the efforts of the Yankee Homecoming Committee. Use 305 Newburyport Turnpike in your GPS as the Address for Ould Newbury Golf Club.

Yankee Homecoming Golf Tournament History

July 31st, 2014 was a day filled with birdies, bogies and pars for most, except Paul Mahoney. Unlike any other year, Paul played the 9-hole course with a crew of friends. Throughout the day they joked and laughed with each other about various ‘swings and misses,’ until there was nothing to joke about.

“A number 6 iron, he hit the ball, a perfect swing, it landed three feet before the hole and BOOM, hole in one!” said Paul’s friend and teammate. And to the victor goes the spoils, a $10,000 prize. According to Yankee Homecoming President Michael Volpone, this was the first hole-in-one in the tournament’s 30 year history.

On the hole Paul made the eagle, there was also a double your money raffle for landing a tee shot on the green in combination with being the closest shot to the pin. Given Paul’s hole in one, he also sank this award.

Paul, who’s been playing golf since he was a kid, says nowadays it’s more luck than anything. When asked what he plans to do with the money, Paul said he is soon to take his wife on a couple’s trip to Alaska.

FUN FACT about the Ould Newbury Golf Course

“Under the leadership of Benjamin Pearson, Dr. Charles S. Ingham and Joseph Dummer, 60 acres of land were leased from Governor Dummer Academy and in 1915, with a fund of $10,000 construction of the golf course began.”

Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Concerts 2022 – Check the Schedule

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

Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Concerts, Newburyport MA

Do you like the idea of relaxing to amazing live music with picturesque water views? Get ready to enjoy some gorgeous Newburyport summer nights featuring awesome live music when you attend the Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Concerts. The 2022 concert series runs from Sunday, July 31st through Saturday, August 6th. Check the concert schedule and read more about your favorite bands below. You will find a few that everyone associates with the Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Concerts, and a couple of cool new surprises too. Grab your chairs and blankets and come experience the Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Concerts with your friends and family!

You can also enjoy live music from Market Square stage and Waterfront stage during the day. Check the 2022 Downtown Entertainment Schedule or view the Yankee Market Place article for Sidewalk Sales, Craft Show and other details. If you are looking for some fun things to do in Newburyport before the free live concerts we recommend a walk along the boardwalk, a visit to the Custom House Maritime Museum, and the Newburyport Art Association. Of course shopping is always a great choice! Downtown Newburyport features a wonderful selection of local boutiques so make sure to leave time to check out the Newburyport shops!

During Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Concerts and throughout Yankee Homecoming there is delicious food to enjoy from vendors and a wide variety of superb restaurants in Newburyport. Enjoy the Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Concerts, a free live music series on the water, a Newburyport tradition!

Sunday July 31st
7:30-9:00 PM – EJ Oulette & Crazy Maggie

Monday August 1st
7:30-9:00 PM – Cold Spring Harbor

Tuesday August 2nd
7:30-9:00 PM – Andrew McManus Band

Wednesday August 3rd
7:30-9:00 PM – Salem Boyz

Thursday August 4th
7:30-9:00 PM – Beatlejuice

Friday August 5th
7:30-9:00 PM – Fortune

Saturday August 6th
7:15-9:15 PM – 12 Barz Band

2022 Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Concerts Bands

EJ Outlette & Crazy Maggie

Front man, string wizard and song smith EJ Ouellette takes listeners on a wild ride every time he performs with his band EJ Ouellette & Crazy Maggy. The Nor’east’s Premiere Regional Roots Band. A guitar journeyman/banjo/mandolin and fiddle master demonstrates creativity and passion with original songs and Nor’east fiddle-driven tunes. Our main mission is to bring JOY to our audiences. Ouellette, a recently Grammy® Nominated Song Producer/Featured Artist/Engineer in the 2022 Grammy® Awards, easily jumps genres, merging American Roots, Celtic/Acadian/Upper Appalachian fiddle tunes and songs in a contemporary fashion. The current Line up is long time Maggy member and sax/vocals/percussionist Steve Baker, Carol Coronis on Vocals/Guitar/Cittern, Ray Himmer Jr. on Bass and Pete Whitehead on drums and vocals.

COLD SPRING HARBOR

Cold Spring Harbor is a Billy Joel tribute band consisting of Benjamin Eramo, Lead Singer/Pianist; Josh Heselton, Drummer; Andrew Pesaturo, Lead Guitarist; Jake Smith, Guitarist; Rob Macy, Bassist; Sean Godbout, Percussion; and a rotating saxophonist. At any Cold Spring Harbor show, you can expect to hear the full variety of Billy Joel’s gentle love songs to his popular arena rock songs, and everything in between! The Entertainer, Keeping The Faith, Only The Good Die Young, Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song), New York State Of Mind, Piano Man, The River Of Dreams, It’s Still Rock n’ Roll To Me, The Stranger, Uptown Girl, Vienna, We Didn’t Start The Fire, and more!

ANDREW MCMANUS BAND

Andrew McManus is an emerging Singer / Songwriter who calls Greater Boston home. Born and raised in Rowley MA, his influences stem from the Alternative Rock he grew up on and evolved into the Modern Country sound that is prominent today. Andrew formed his band in 2016 and has gained momentum in the Boston Country Music scene with an edgier Country / Rock experience at their shows.

SALEM BOYZ

The Salem Boyz is a nostalgia-rich, 12-piece classic rock and dance band with horn section, made up of reunited high school friends from Salem, New Hampshire. Our passion is bringing communities together and celebrating our favorite era of music, the 1970’s into early 80’s. We perform during the summer at Hampton Beach, at reunions and home town events.

BEATLEJUICE

BEATLEJUICE doesn’t mimic the Beatles, they honor them! Widely recognized as the finest interpreters of Lennon & McCartney, Beatlejuice combines wonderful vocals, great musicianship and true respect for their heroes. Playing special tribute to the late Brad Delp will be friends Mike Girard and Joe Holaday (Newburyport’s own) of “The Fools” along with Jim Rogers, Buddy Bernard, Steve Baker, John Muzzy and Bob Squires. This will be an evening of celebration, love and remembrance and the greatest rock ‘n roll music ever written!

FORTUNE

For over three decades, Fortune has regularly packed venues throughout New England. Hailing from Peabody, MA, this 6-piece band has long maintained a reputation for smooth three and four part vocal harmonies, dynamic and melodic textures of multiple guitars and keyboards, and a tight rhythm section; this allowed for limitless possibilities in both writing original songs and covering any song they wanted to. Along with their original music they are known of calling out songs from artists such as Queen, Journey, Boston, Queensrych, Led Zepplin and many more!

Over the years, Fortune has been privileged to open for nationally successful bands such as Cheap Trick, Kansas, Dave Mason, Blood, Sweat, and Tears, Robin Trower, Bad Company, Blue Oyster Cult, The Guess Who, Ben Orr, America, and Jefferson Starship. More recently, Fortune was called to open for Kansas for the fourth time over the past decade.

Fortune is: Bob Vose, Lead vocals; Bill Plourde, Guitar; Pete DiStefano, Guitar; SteveBaker, Keyboards; Lou Spagnola, Bass; Dickie Paris; Drums
For more information, visit our Facebook page:
facebook.com/groups/fortunefriends

12 BARZ BAND

Don’t Miss 7 Piece Horn and Vocal Powerhouse 12 BARZ BAND, co-led by one of Boston’s most respected and beloved Vocalist-Frontmen, Allan Michael Marcus and Journeyman-Guitarist, Ed Dondero. These two seasoned and electric performers together with their killer Horn and Rhythm sections bring it to the stage every single night. The Legendary 12 BARZ BAND will keep all ages dancing and entertained with their musicianship, song selections and stage presence. The Band will give a fresh take on classic songs without taking away the original artists deserved due. Allan, Ed and the boys are sure to make this the best concert of the Summer. Don’t miss 12 BARZ BAND!

Yankee Homecoming Cornhole Tournament – Beginner and Competitive

Whether you want to get competitive or play for fun, all are welcome to throw bags at the Yankee Homecoming Cornhole Tournament. Yankee Homecoming is partnering up with NBPT Cornhole to bring two tournaments to the festivities—one for beginners and one for players that regularly compete in local leagues.

The Beginners Tournament will take place on Sunday, July 31st promptly at 11:00am (check in at 10:30am), at the Mall as part of Olde Fashion Sunday. $40 per team. The contest will consist of teams of two competing in a double-elimination tournament. All casual bags players are welcome to grab a partner and compete for bragging rights of Yankee Homecoming’s best beginner team and a cash payout for the top five finishers. If you’ve got a lucky set of bags you can bring your own or borrow a set from NBPT Cornhole.

Those competing in the Beginners Tournament are encouraged to download the free Scoreholio app to track their team’s progress and standing. The app will also notify teams when it is their turn to play.

If you’ve taken your cornhole game out of the backyard and compete in a league, sign up for the Competitive Tournament at the Newburyport Elks on August 6th promptly at 12:00 PM. Each team must pay $60 to participate, due on the day of the event.

In addition to cornhole, the Elks offer a cash bar on site.There will be a food truck available for the afternoon and the Mostly Young band will be there at noon.

To participate, preregister here and pay the $40 team entry fee for the Beginners Tournament and $60 for the Competitive Tournament day of the Yankee Homecoming Cornhole Tournament. A portion of the proceeds will go to benefit the Yankee Homecoming Committee.

Want to take the leap from Beginner to Competitive for next year? Check out Newburyport’s very own bags league and partner for the tournaments, NBPT Cornhole.

The cornhole tournaments are part of Newburyport’s annual Yankee Homecoming celebration. For a full list of events happening throughout the week, check out our events calendar.

High School Battle of the Bands – Yankee Homecoming

Annual Yankee Homecoming Battle of the Bands

Top Up and Coming Local Bands

2022 Battle of the Bands

The Battle of The Bands provides entertainment for opening night of Yankee Homecoming from Waterfront Stage. Each year local high school students from Newburyport and surrounding towns help kick off Yankee Homecoming week as they compete in the annual High School Battle of the Bands. Mark your calendar for Saturday, July 30th starting at 6 PM. Bands perform on the Waterfront Park stage featuring a collection of family-friendly songs for cash, prizes and the opportunity to be the opening act, Sunday night of the Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Concert Series.

2022 High School Battle of the Band Winners

Bands:
1st: Vibe Check
2nd: Dune Dogs
3rd: Catching Arrows

Solo Acoustic:
1st: Georgia Siegfried
2nd: PC Walker & Charlie Grossman

Come cheer for and support these up and coming local bands as they compete for the High School Battle of the Bands title. If you’re interested in participating, make sure to register by midnight on July 22nd. View the registration form for complete rules and regulations.

First Prize

Featured opening act at a Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Concert
$100 Cash
Paid performance – Yankee Homecoming Parade, Sunday August 7th

Second Prize

$100 Cash
Sunday August 7th, Paid Performance Market Square stage

Third Prize

$100 Cash

SOLO/ ACOUSTIC DIVISION (2 or less members)

First Prize

Sunday August 7th, Paid Performance Market Square Stage.
$100 CASH

Second Prize

GIFT CERTIFICATE – TBA

As part of the Battle of the Bands competition rules, one band is accepted on a first come first serve basis from each of the following: Newburyport High, Amesbury High, The Governor’s Academy, Pentucket Regional High, Triton Regional High, The Musical Suite, West Newbury School of Music, and Zach Field Drum Studio. Additional bands are then selected based on contest availability.

Yankee Homecoming Market Place – Food, Shopping & Entertainment Schedule

Yankee Homecoming Market Place, Newburyport MA

Experience the Yankee Homecoming Market Place in the heart of Newburyport’s historic and downtown from 10 am to 10 pm daily from August 1st- August 7th. Eat, shop and be entertained daily in Market Square, and surrounding streets. Follow the scent of the outdoor grilling to the many savory food choices and, explore all sorts of outdoor shopping, crafts and other fun things to do. Make sure to catch daily entertainment at the Market Square stage as well as the Waterfront stage. Article photograph taken by the the official Yankee Homecoming photographers at Glenn Livermore Photography.

The Yankee Homecoming Market Place offers a wonderful variety of food options so your certain to find something for everyone. In addition to the standard outdoor vendor options of burgers, hot dogs, sausages fries and pizza, you will also find seafood vendors, Chinese, Indian, Italian, Mexican and delicious Greek food as well. Make sure to save room for sweet treats and refreshing, cool treats as well, maybe an Italian Ice, or traditional fried dough.

Grab a seat on one of the benches in Market Square and enjoy live entertainment from the Market Square stage or take a walk down to Waterfront Park to check out what’s happening on the Waterfront Stage. Downtown Entertainment runs daily from 11:30 am – 6 pm, and you can view the 2021 entertainment schedule for both the Market Square Stage and the Waterfront Stage. In the evenings during Yankee Homecoming you can also enjoy the Yankee Homecoming Waterfront Concerts.

As part of the Yankee Homecoming Market Place you can enjoy the Market Square Craft Day on Tuesday, August 3rd from 10 am – 7 pm. The rain date is Wednesday, August 4th. Check the Newburyport.com Events Calendar for more details on these events.

The Yankee Homecoming sidewalk sales are another great extension of the Yankee Homecoming Market Place. You will find tents with all sorts of great merchandise on the streets surrounding Market Square: State Street, Pleasant Street and Inn Street too. The sidewalk sales run Thursday, Friday and Saturday, August 5th, 6th and 7th. The sidewalk sales are a great way to support our local retailers and find some great deals!

While in Market Square the kids can get get their face painted, play on the Inn Street Playground or cool off in the Inn Street fountain! The Yankee Homecoming Market Place runs from 10 am – 10 pm daily in Market Square and surrounding streets.

If you enjoy saving money, make sure to purchase a Newburyport VIP Card, to receive discounts at participating Greater Newburyport restaurants and shops. You can use your VIP Card every time you visit any of the participating businesses and help support Yankee Homecoming Fireworks. Purchase one card for $25 or two for $40 and $10 of your purchase is donated to help pay for our spectacular firework display. Choose if you would like a traditional Physical VIP Card valid until 12/31/21 or a login for Digital VIP Card display in the “Newburyport” App. The digital VIP Card is valid one year from purchase.

If you enjoy using Apps, type “Newburyport” in the App Store or Play Store and select “VIP Card Discounts” to view participating businesses and discounts. You can purchase directly through the App, for immediate activation, and make sure to select YANKEE HOMECOMING FIREWORKS to receive $10 of your purchase.