There is no snow on the ground in Boston yet (and I am not sure I am quite ready for it yet) – but there are plenty of ways to get your family into holiday spirit in Boston, starting this weekend!

Here is our list:

The Nutcracker at the Boston Ballet

Liza Voll Photography. Nutcracker by Boston Ballet.

We have traditionally started the season with attending the Nutcracker at the Boston Ballet over Thanksgiving break.  This year we were invited to the Dress Rehearsal and had a chance to witness the creative process and see the dancers up close and personal.  (Read our report here).

There are several Nutcracker versions in town (including Urban Nutcracker and visiting shows (check out the discounted tickets via bostix), but the Nutcracker by Boston Ballet is our favorite.  As my 7-year-old daughter Vi says, “it gets better every year” (currently in 5^th year of the shorter and lighter production by Boston Ballet’s artistic director Mikko Nissinen.  In Boston Opera House through December 31).

Gardens Aglow at the Heritage Museum in Sandwich

We love our summer and fall trips to the Cape so much that we were willing to drive out of town for the Gardens Aglow celebration at Heritage Museums & Gardens in Sandwich.   Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday (4:30-8:30pm) through December 18, the holiday lights transform this largest Southern New England garden into winter wonderland with the distinct New England “heritage” flair.

Gardens Aglow: Photographs taken on location at Heritage Museums & Gardens, Sandwich, MA

We visited on the opening weekend and saw the model train passing through Cape Cod Canal in the special exhibit gallery, admired traditional holiday table designs by local artists, climbed the antique car in the permanent exhibit hall, and of course rode the historical carousel until closing time.  For details and tickets, check the website.

Roasting marshmallows. (Photographs taken on location at Heritage Museums & Gardens, Sandwich, MA)

Holiday Pops Kids Matinees

Beloved Boston Pops Orchestra performs special holidays concerts every December, including  kids’ holidays matinee shows. Here is our report from the Boston Pops Kids Matinee (11 am, Saturdays and Sundays through December 24^th).  There will be traditional holiday sing-alongs and post-concert photo opportunities.

NEW: Boston Winter Wonderland at City Hall Plaza

After the Pops, we plan to check out Boston’s newest holiday venture at City Hall Plaza, complete with winter bazaar, ice skating ring, chocolate and wine tastings.  Entrance is free, but some of the tastings are fee-based (see the list of paid activities here. Use code BLOGFRIEND for 15% off discount through December 16.) Stay tuned for our updates on facebook.

Blinking at Faneuil Hall

At 4:30 pm we will move over to Faneuil Hall for the holiday lights and music show called Blink!

Faneuil Hall during the holidays

350,000 LED lights illuminate Boston’s skyline to the song arrangements of the Holiday Pops – in a seven-minute spectacle that runs continuously each evening beginning November 20^th through January 1.

Each day of the season the first show starts on the Main Tree at Marketplace Center and on the trees in South Market at 4:30 pm and runs every hour on the half hour. The North Market show begins at 5:00 pm and runs every hour on the hour.  Be sure to know your South from North once in the area  (check with the local vendors when in doubt) or you may miss a couple of shows by being in a wrong place!

The Blink music and light show at the Marketplace Center

More Holiday Lights:

ZooLight holiday stroll in Stoneham Zoo (Stoneham, MA) promises a winter wonderland of trees and lights November 25-January 1 (5-9pm).

Edaville Railroad in Carver, MA, offers Christmas-lit train rides during its Festival of Lights (through January 1). Trains run on an hourly schedule.

Frog Pond Skating at Boston Common

Boston Common’s main Nova Scotia tree has been officially lit since December 1.  When you come to America’s oldest public park during the holidays, be sure to stop at the famous Frog Pond for some skating lessons or just to watch from the boards.  Check the website for schedule, rentals, lessons and birthday party bookings.

Photo Credit: Skating Club of Boston

Christmas at Sturbridge Village

For families interested in learning about  historical Christmas, Sturbridge Village (about an hour drive west of Boston) presents Christmas by Candlelight celebrations on weekends,  December 2- through 18 and on December 23.

Holiday at the Newport Mansions 

Three of the famous gilded age mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, invite you to tour and admire holiday music and decorations.  The three houses – Breakers, The Elms and Marble House (all are National Historic Landmarks) will be open daily for tours from November 18 through Sunday, January 2, 2017.   Here is the link for tickets and schedules. And while you are in the city, go on a Newport Holiday stroll (through December 11).

Hanukkah at the Museum of Fine Arts

Hanukkah does not start until December 24^th this year, but free Hanukkah celebration at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston is on Wednesday, December 14, starting at 4pm.  Watch menorah installation, explore MFA’s Judaica collection, participate in the virtual reality show, make art – in this one of a kind community celebration of arts and culture.  Check full program here.

Lighting home-made Menorah during our family Hanukah Party at the grandparents’

Skiing Day Trips

While a ski weekend with friends and family is always fun (read my 7 Tips for fun ski getaway) skiing day trip within 1-3 hour drive from Boston is a possibility.   In the past winters, we enjoyed day trips to Loon and Gunstock Mountains in New Hampshire, and to the Wachusett and a “very” local Blue Hill reservation in Massachusetts  (check snow conditions first, of course).

Vi at her first skiing lesson at Gunstock in 2013.

Weekend Trip

There is so much to do in and around Boston during the holidays, yet we may get the cabin-fever over long holiday weekend and go on a road trip to New York City (read about our three New York City Holiday favorites here).  Or we might decide to cross the border over to Canada and explore Montreal’s holiday spots.

Winter Wonderland at NYC Bryant Park

Boston’s First Night

In my family, we traditionally spend the New Year’s night at home. (We like to give the little kids special attention during this holiday following our childhood traditions from the old country (read about it here).

For families who like to ring the New Year on the town, the First Night/Day Boston 2017 will feature fireworks and special cultural performances and celebrations throughout the city.  The detailed schedule is on this website.

This post is linking up with a travel story collection at Travel Notes & Beyond Blog.

As a family, we try to take advantage of Boston’s world class cultural attractions every chance we get.   Attending Boston Pops Orchestra’s Kids Holiday Matinee at the Symphony Hall seemed festively appropriate for December holidays, but we had no idea what to expect.   This was the first time my daughter and I attended Boston Pops Holiday concert, but for many local families it is a beloved holidays tradition (read about other Boston holidays must do‘s in this post).

Here is what to expect at the Boston Pops Kids Holiday Matinee:

The Hall.  Boston’s historic Symphony Hall (built in 1900) is among the best music venues in the world!  With its shallow balconies, statue-filled niches and beautiful coffered ceiling (all specially constructed so as not to trap the sound),  it does not need much decorations to inspire the music lovers.   Yet, the Symphony becomes ever so special for the holidays.  Many patrons add to the festive occasion by dressing in their holidays’ best (kids included).  Ourselves, we were dressed in holiday “casuals”, but if you feel festive, don’t be afraid to show it – as many people will.

Boston Symphony Hall: the balconies dressed for the holidays

The Pops.  For those new to  Boston Symphony Hall, the Boston Pops is Boston Symphony’s second identity, playing light classical and popular music during December holiday season and in the spring.  For the holiday performances in December, the Pops were accompanied by all-volunteer Tanglewood Festival Chorus (with William Cutler, quest chorus director).  It added to the atmosphere of the performance that the Pops conductor Keith Lockhart himself was addressing the audience, talking about the season of light from both Jewish and Christian perspectives and remembering his own family holiday traditions.

Boston Pops Conductor Keith Lockhart during one of the many lighter moments in the show

The Kids. This is a family concert so expect a lot of kids.   And when I say kids, I mean babies in arms, toddlers, and elementary schoolers (kids ages two and under attend for free).  Surprisingly for this type of crowd, I was never disturbed or heard anyone crying or otherwise misbehaving (strategic acoustics?).  And when a little boy from the audience decided to run towards Santa (as Santa was making his way around the tables – heading for the stage), it was all good and cute and really just part of the … Kids Holiday Matinee at the Pops!

The Program includes holiday classics (A Christmas Scherzo, Mary Little Boy Child) as well as kids’ “specials”: How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss, and kids’ popular sing-alongs (Jingle Bells, the Chipmunk Song, Frosty the Snowman) led by the Santa himself. The lyrics are projected onto giant screen and everyone sings along  (I saw my Vi singing too!)

Holiday Pos: Kids Matinee

I was pleasantly surprised to hear Jewish Hanukah’s Light One Candle on the program.  The show is 70 minutes without an intermission.

Cafe Seating. For Boston Pops concerts, the first floor auditorium seating is traditionally reconfigured with café style tables.  For kids’ holiday matinee, special kids’ menus on each table were accompanied with pencils for drawing – and I observed many kids taking advantage of these touches.  You can order from the full menu of hot and cold light dishes, fully packaged in a “to go” containers to prevent spills and the need for too much servicing.  If you plan to order food, arrive early as ordering is encouraged prior to showtime.  You can also just go festive (and simple) and order just Champaign or another beverage.   For kids, milk and cookies during holiday performance go a long way towards keeping their attention and holiday spirits intact.  But if you prefer to keep your musical concerts food-free, go with balcony seating (it is also a cheaper option!).

First Floor Cafe style seating during Boston Pops Holidays Show

My daughter got into holiday spirit so much that she expressed interest in the pictures with Santa after the performance – and she never goes for the pictures with Santa! Well, this was the Boston Pops’ very special performing Santa after all!

Remaining shows in 2016: December 17, 18 and 24^th.  Kids two and under attend for free but need a ticket. We were guests of the Boston Symphony.  For tickets go to Boston Symphony website.

For the tips on attending Boston Symphony’s summer lawn concerts at Tanglewood in the Berkshires with your kids, read this post.

There is always plenty of family fun in and around Boston, but school vacation week adds special programming touches to our beloved institutions. HERE are some tried and true Boston’s February vacation week favorites with some bonus new ideas thrown into the mix!

MONDAY: FAMILY FUN OUTDOORS

Monday forecast promises an excellent day outdoors and there is no lack of family offerings near Boston.

The Franklin Park Zoo vacation week activities are offered 10-2pm Monday-Friday and are included in the admission price.

Beloved Boston Common’s Frog Pond offers free skating for all during school vacation week (February 20-24), thanks to Highland Foundation.

Credit: Boston Skating Club

Twelve miles West of Boston,  Weston Ski Track has trails, equipment rental and lessons for cross-country skiing (classical and skate skiing style). I have yet to try the place (and cross country skiing) so please share your reviews in comments if you have visited!

For down-hill skiing day trips, try Blue Hills in Canton or Wachusett Mountain in Princeton.

TUESDAY: SCIENCE DAY 

Museum of Science Boston has special extended hours during school vacation week (great time to check out their Planetarium shows if you have not already). There are plenty of interesting permanent collections for explorers big and small but visiting De Vinci Exhibit is closing on Sunday February 26, so if you would like to discover or rediscover the legacy of the master in this most comprehensive touring exhibit, you may want to hurry in.  Another special draw:  Chocolate: the Exhibition from Chicago’s Field Museum.  Both visiting exhibits are free for members.

Chocolate Exhibit at the Museum of Science

Aspiring engineers will not want to miss National Engineering Week celebration at the February Festival at MIT Museum (pre-registration is required for workshops).

WEDNESDAY: FINE ART

Museum of Fine Arts Boston always puts together a week of special activities during school vacation weeks with plenty of opportunities for casual introduction to fine art.  Being members of the museum, we get to visit many times during the year, but Wednesday is a special day to visit as the entrance is free (optional donation-based) and Museum stays open until 8 pm. This year’s February vacation week theme: Make Way for Animals.

Vi with her friend Sasha are painting winter landscapes during a recent vacation week program at MFA

Or, check out vacation week activities at the Boston’s Institute of Contemporary Art.  (Free entrance for all on Monday February 20 in honor of the President’s Day).  Art and architecture making activities await and the waterfront location is unbeatable.

THURSDAY: SHOW TIME

Wheelock Family Theater shows Boston’s very own production of Billy Elliot the Musical through February 26 (buy tickets via the theater’s website, or for discounted tickets try bostix or goldstar).

Curtain Call for the Wheelock’s Billy Elliot had the audience on their feet

I love the story of overcoming the circumstances and going after your dreams, but if you think your kid is too young for this (there are some crude realities in the old mining town in England not to mention harsh language), there are some show time alternatives during this vacation week.

Boston Children’s Theatre has produced two special shows: Curious George and the Golden Meatball (musical adventure) for younger theatergoers and Miss Nelson Is Missing! (a musical mystery based on Harry Allard’s picture book) for older kids.

Brookline’s Puppet Showplace Theater‘s vacation week line-up includes the favorite classics Wizard of Oz and Hansel and Gretel.

Disney on Ice presents Follow your Heart on February 17-27 at Boston’s TD Garden.

FRIDAY: PLAY DAY

To celebrate February school vacation week, Lego Discovery Center Boston has added a new interactive City Builder space where little guests can add their own creations to the existing city infrastructure.  I could not pull my 7-year old away.  The Center will have special extended vacation week hours.

Vi is adding her creation to the new City Builder exhibit during media opening day

SATURDAY AT THE MOVIES

Annual Providence Children’s Film Festival is showing a selection of thought-provoking independent films from all over the world –with an opportunity to connect and discuss the film with other families post-show.  Check their website for this year’s programming and special activities.

Cambridge’s Brattle Theater presents a lighter hearted animatic treats during their annual Bugs Bunny Film Festival (February 17-25).

SUNDAY: DAY TRIPS

It is not too late to get into the tourist spirit and plan a day trip to the nearby Rhode Island cities of Providence (see some activities ideas here) or Newport (have you taken the kids to the historic mansions?) or Massachusetts North Shore towns of Ipswich (check out Crane Estate) and Salem (Peabody Essex Museum is one of the oldest in the country).

For refreshing winter sea walks, choose any beach on the National Seashore on Cape Cod or try a Marginal Way coastal walk in Ogunquit, Maine – all within a 60-90-minute drive from Boston. 

Marconi Beach, National Seashore, Cape Cod

Massachusetts Trustees of Reservations have over 100 properties in their care all over the state and many are open for exploration during the vacation week.  We already took the sea walk near the Crane Estate in Ipswich, but historic Bradley Estate in Canton is still in our plans (free admission).

Crane Estate, Ipswich (the property of the Trustees of Reservation).

Last week Boston Ballet presented the Artifact 2017 by William Forsythe, one of the most influential choreographers of our time (in Boston Opera House through March 5).

Many of us,  weekenders, go to ballet performances to escape the routine and to be carried away to the far away lands of swans, princesses and eternal love, to live through the emotions bigger than life and, of course, to connect with the powerful characters.  The Artifact by William Forsythe will definitely challenge your expectations.   There is no (obvious) story line, or exotic lands, or characters whose passions you could immediately follow.   There is a Woman in Historical Dress (Dana Caspersen) and Man with Megaphone (Nicholas Champion has been playing the role since ballet’s inception in 1984) and a Woman in Gray (possibly aka the Spirit of Dance; By Caralin Curcio).  I had especially hard time trying to connect with Man with Megaphone.

Woman in Gray and Man with Megaphone: Caralin Curcio and Nicholas Champion  in William Forsythe’s Artifact 2017; photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy of Boston Ballet

There is powerful large ensemble dancing in intricate architectural patterns as well as several intimate, physical duet dancing (Lia Cirio/Roddy Doble and Seo Hye Han/Paul Craig last Saturday; Kathleen Breen Combes/Eris Nezha and Misa Kuranaga/Patrick Yocum on the opening night).

Lia Cirio and Roddy Doble in William Forsythe’s Artifact 2017; photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy of Boston Ballet

Boston Ballet in William Forsythe’s Artifact 2017; photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy of Boston Ballet

There are also WORDS, lots of spoken words (hear/remember, think/thought, see/forget, step inside/step outside, dust/sand/rocks) that sometimes make total sense, like these powerful revelations (“You step outside and you always forget”, “You always think, you never thought, you always said”) and yet other times are just there as a rhythmic background.

Artifact 2017 Dress rehearsal. Boston Ballet in William Forsythe’s Artifact 2017; photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy of Boston Ballet

But here is where the avant-garde ballet comes alive: once YOU STEP INSIDE  – you can create your own story.   (That is if you SEE and do not FORGET – and some of it may become SAND and ROCKS and some will disappear as DUST.)

I was lucky to see the performance twice: first, during the Dress Rehearsal before the February 23 Opening Night and also last Saturday, two days after the opening.  I found that during my second experience with Forsythe choreography I was better prepared to THINK about what I SAW.

Boston Ballet and guest artist Dana Caspersen in William Forsythe’s Artifact 2017; photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy of Boston Ballet

Since most of you will only have one chance to see the performance this week these notes may help prepare you for the EXPERIENCE.

1. The Artifact is a modern (some would even say abstract) ballet with a four-act structure of a classical ballet, with its large ensemble sequences mixed with  pas de deux performances;

2. You may want to think about the story line as a story of Ballet itself: its origins and its struggles to remain (hence the repetition of basic technical elements) and to change (this is what powerful futuristic ensemble dances are about).  New York Times quoted Forsythe saying that the language in Artifact is the language of ballet terminology. “… the outside, the inside, remembering, forgetting; it’s what we say in class and rehearsal every day.”

William Forsythe rehearsing at the Boston Ballet studios. Courtesy of Boston Ballet

3. Forsythe admitted being influenced by “the most contemporary choreographer of all times” George Balanchine (Balanchine died a year before the Artifact was first performed in 1984); Balanchine traditions are evidenced throughout the choreography and not just in the identical minimalistic costumes.

4. The musical score is built around J.S. Bach’s “Chaconne from Partita No. 2 in D Minor” (variations by Eva Crossman-Hecht).

5. William Forsythe has not stopped working on his ballet over the last 30 years, and he has substantially changed Parts 3 and 4 while in Boston!

Artifact marks the beginning of a 5-year partnership which Boston Ballet established with Forsythe.  WILL I REMEMBER, WILL I FORGET?  WAS I ON THE INSIDE OR OUTSIDE? WAS IT DUST OR SAND? I know I will become better at it with each new Forsythe puzzle I will be decrypting.  As always, I invite you to follow along.

Artifact 2017 performs in Boston Opera House through March 5. For tickets and more information, go to Boston Ballet’s website.

Choreographer William Forsythe during the Dress Rehearsal on February 22, 2017 before Boston Ballet premiere of Artifact.

On March 23, Boston Ballet celebrated the calendar arrival of Spring with a program of three contemporary mini-ballets featuring George Balanchine’s 1964 Donizetti Variations, Jiri Kylián’s 1997 Wings of Wax, and Alexander Ekman’s 2010 Cacti.

While I am a big fan of classical story ballets, I am becoming more and more comfortable with interpreting contemporary choreography and creating a story for myself when none is “officially” offered.  As Mikko Nissinen, Boston Ballet’s artistic director of 16 years, has told me during the program’s dress rehearsal, “Ballet is a living art form, not a museum”.    Whether or not you agree with this statement, Wings of Wax is a great program for anyone interested in experiencing a contemporary dance, whether you are new to it or are a long-time admirer.

THREE CONTRASTING WORKS

Our evening (we saw Friday, March 24 show) started with Balanchine’s light-hearted Donizetti Variations – the most “classical” of the three works, set to the music of Donizetti’s “Don Sebastian” (1843).  The piece was originally created for New York City Ballet’s 1960 program “Salute to Italy,” in celebration of the 100th anniversary of Italy’s unification.

Boston Ballet in George Balanchine’s Donizetti Variations © The George Balanchine Trust; photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy Boston Ballet

It was followed by Kylián’s highly emotional Wings of Wax: Eight dancers are defying gravity under the branches of an inverted hanging tree, eventually breaking into four couples dancing every possible human emotion.  Set to the score of the selection of musical giants from different centuries (Bach, Biber, Cage and Glass), with a beautiful set design by Michael Simon, Wings of Wax represented for me the very essence of contemporary ballet: clean classical lines are combined with extreme emotions  danced with the gravity defying fluidity.  My husband was mesmerized by Wings of Wax as well: it was his favorite ballet of the evening and  Kylián is now his favorite choreographer!

Boston Ballet in Jiří Kylián’s Wings of Wax. Photo by Rosalie O’Connor

The third piece of the program, Ekman’s Cacti is an ultra-modern blend of spoken word, music, dance, and many other things that I would like to keep as a surprise for you.  Musical score includes Haydn, Beethoven, Schubert, and Mahler performed by Boston Ballet Orchestra, with an addition of the string quartet playing onstage, sometimes improvising, while walking amongst the dancers. The dancers are also members of the “human orchestra” as they create rhythms by drumming on their bodies and props.

Boston Ballet in Alexander Ekman’s Cacti; photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy of Boston Ballet

The cacti do play a role, but you will just have to figure it out for yourself.

Boston Ballet in Alexander Ekman’s Cacti; photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy of Boston Ballet

WHY THESE THREE

Nissinen explained that the three ballets in the program create an “aura, an experience in the theater.”  The first piece – Donizetti Variations “cleanses” the feelings and takes the audience exactly where the Boston Ballet’s artistic director wants them to be to see the heart-felt Wings of Wax.  And then they are ready for the “refreshingly different journey of  Cacti,” he says.

WILL BOSTON BALLET TURN INTO A MODERN DANCE COMPANY?

Story ballet fans have nothing to worry about.  “We are a ballet company of the future,” Nissinen said during the post-show audience talk on March 24. “We have an incredible breadth of dance talent…[and] we need classical ballets to properly train our dancers….This is as far as I intend to push [the repertoire]”.

There will be more Kylián and other modern choreographers in Boston Ballet’s future, but there is Sleeping Beauty coming up later in the spring and Romeo and Juliet has already been announced for 2017-2018 season.

Wings of Wax program is performed in Boston’s Opera House through April 2. It is 2 hours with 2 intermissions.  For tickets (starting at $45) and show times, go to Boston Ballet’s website.

We thank Boston Ballet for inviting us to be a part of this celebration of Boston spring.

This article is linking up with #TheWeeklyPostcard collection of travel stories at The Travel Notes & Beyond Blog.

While we were busy with college touring for our older child, April school vacations came upon Boston and we are hurrying to make  plans for our youngster Vi, who is seven. Here is OUR APRIL SCHOOL VACATION plan for the week.  I invite you to add your own ideas in the comments!

1. CHARLOTTE’S WEB at Wheelock Family Theater

Adapted by Joseph Robinette from the beloved children’s book by E.B. White,  Charlotte’s Web it is a delightful tale of friendship and loyalty with many important life lessons (let’s just say I almost teared up at the end).  As always in Wheelock’s productions, there are both professional and child actors on stage, but everyone and everything – the acting full of comical details, imaginative stage set, the script with simple philosophical wisdoms – works smoothly for a lighthearted performance that will surely leave you and your kids happy (Here is a helpful study guide to discuss the play with your kids).

Aerial acrobatics from Caroline Lawton (Charlotte) was a pleasant surprise!

Charlotte’s Web. Photo Courtesy: Wheelock Family Theater

Interacting with the cast following Charlotte’s Web Performance last Sunday

For more information, go to theater’s webpage (discounted tickets are available via bostix.org).  April 14-May 14 (with daily shows during the school vacation week).

For older kids (14+), Boston Children’s Theater has put together a thought provoking production of One Flew over the Cuckoos Nest (April 15-29, at the Boston Center for the Arts at 539 Tremont street).

Younger kids will enjoy Brookline’s Puppet Showplace Theater daily programming (some shows are suitable for kids as young as three).

2.  MFA Vacation Week

For our “fix” of visual arts, we always plan to partake in the art making activities during vacation week at the Museum of Fun Arts Boston (Tuesday – Friday, April 18-22).  As members, we enjoy unlimited access throughout the year, but for occasional visitors, Wednesday “pay what you can” deal is very popular (Museum stays open until 8pm on Wednesdays so working parents could have their school vacation night on the town too!).  And while you visit, enjoy Matisse in the Studio Exhibit of special artifacts from the artist’s studio (April 9- July 9).

3. Play with Science

For science lovers, Cambridge Science Festival (through April 23) offers hands-on events for kids (and adults) of different ages.  Museum of Science is partaking in the Festival with their own events – check out their offerings here.   Vacation week programming at the Museum of Science will culminate with the Earth Day celebration on April 23.

Vi at the Museum of Science Boston

4. Good Old Fun

For good old fun times, we are taking Vi to Six Flags New England in Agawam, MA this week (they just opened for the season).

If you have not yet visited our Boston’s own Legoland Discovery Center, their vacation week programming (April 15-23)  offers medieval days with LEGO^® NEXO KNIGHTS™ adventure.   There will be special vacation week Playmakers around the attraction to interact with quests and spark creativity.

Vi and Sasha during recent visit to Legoland Boston

5. Day Tripping to the Cape

If you are in the mood for a day trip, Heritage Museums & Gardens in Sandwich (just over the Cape Cod bridge) opens its 2017 season in time for school vacation week with special outdoor art creation for the kids to compliment Painted Landscapes: Contemporary Views Exhibit currently on display.   There are 100 acres of nature trails, woodlands and gardens to explore at this indoor/outdoor museum, and when you get tired of the outdoors, you can step inside for their unique collection of historical cars.  An outdoor tree adventure park opens for the season on April 13.

Heritage Museums and Gardens. Sandwich

Historical Car Collection at the Heritage Museums and Gardens

And if you are on Cape Cod, a walk on the beach is never too far.

Marconi Beach. National Seashore. Cape Cod.

More day trip ideas:

Touring historical mansions in care of the Massachusetts Trustees of Reservations

Touring Boston on Foot (“pay what you like” concept); read about our experience with this tour here

Touring Newport’s famous Cliff Walk and Historical Mansions

Coming up later in April

WaterFire Providence: April 28

Sleeping Beauty by Boston Ballet: April 28 – May 27

In one of his post-performance talks (following a modern program last March), Boston Ballet’s artistic director Mikko Nissinen promised that the company would continue to embrace both traditional story ballets and the diverse works by the modern choreographers.  This May, ballet lovers in Boston are being treated to two superb productions as diverse as ballet performances could be: The Sleeping Beauty and Robbins/The Concert (Or, the Perils of Everybody).

Boston Ballet in Marius Petipa’s The Sleeping Beauty; photo by Liza Voll, courtesy Boston Ballet

The Sleeping Beauty

Set to the music of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Boston Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty is based on the 1890 version by Marious Petipa first performed by the Imperial Ballet at the Maryinsky Theater in St. Petersburg, Russia. With a battle of good and evil at its center and some of the most iconic and technically challenging ballet roles, this lavish production has a prominent place in ballet’s history (pay attention as Princess Aurora balances on pointe in attitude  while interacting with four of her suitors at her 16^th Birthday – in the famous Rose Adagio) .

Ji Young Chae and Junxiong Zhao in Marius Petipa’s The Sleeping Beauty; photo by Liza Voll, courtesy Boston Ballet

Robbins/The Concert

The Concert is a three-ballet contemporary program.   As Nissinen noted in his interview to Boston.com’s radio BDC, the program is like “a three course meal: it starts quiet, then goes to different places with the following courses”.  The first “quiet” course  refers to George Balanchine’s 1972 Stravinsky Violin Concerto.  It is Boston Ballet’s premiere of Balanchine’s work requiring utmost musicality from the dancers – for which, Nissinen feels, his dancers are now ready.

Boston Ballet in George Balanchine’s Stravinsky Violin Concerto © The George Balanchine Trust; photo by Igor Burlak Photography, courtesy Boston Ballet

Second “course” is world premier of Creatures of Egmont by Boston Ballet resident choreographer Jorma Elo.  Set to a collection of music by Beethoven, Bach, and Schumann, it derives heavily from classical technique, yet, according to Elo himself, “stays away from going deeper and telling the full story”.   Robert Perdziola, who designed costumes for Nissinen’s productions of The Nutcracker and Swan Lake, is the costume designer for Elo’s world premiere.

Boston Ballet in Jorma Elo’s Creatures of Egmont; photo by Igor Burlak Photography, courtesy Boston Ballet

Jerome Robbins’ 1956 comic ballet The Concert (Or, the Perils of Everybody) set to the music of F. Chopin is a light-hearted “dessert” of the evening: it follows the antiques of a colorful set of concert-goes and is an easy  winner among the ballet audiences world-wide (You may even recognize yourself in one of the characters).

Lasha Khozashvili and Boston Ballet in Jerome Robbins’ The Concert (Or, The Perils of Everybody); photo by Gene Schiavone, courtesy Boston Ballet 

WHICH ONE?

I happened to see both productions during the same weekend.  I have not planned it this way, but seeing these performances so close together gave me me an opportunity to compare and contrast the way I experience traditional and modern ballet.

Last Friday, during the opening night of Robbins/The Concert, I noticed that I was more tense and had to “work” much harder to appreciate an intricate blend of music and movement (especially during Balanchine’s and Elo’s parts of the program, as The Concert piece is more “classical” in its ease of following).  Although I was mesmerized by the superb athleticism of almost acrobatic movements, I never for a second lost touch with reality, with myself; the lack of a story to follow made me go deep inside myself in searching for one.

In contract, during the three hours of the Sleeping Beauty last Saturday, I was much more relaxed, as I was transported to another world, enchanted by the magical spells and overtaken by the grandiosity of the production.

If you have a chance to see both productions in the remaining three May weekends, you would also be able to appreciate an incredible versatility of Boston Ballet dancers.  Coming from seventeen different countries with diverse ballet and musical traditions, they blend their talents to bring us the ultimate joy of dance – in any style they are tasked with!

WHO TO TAKE WITH YOU

Contemporary Concert, with its complex blend of movement, musicality and expression should be a hit with your older teens and anybody else who  claims to be bored with fairy tale ballets.

Traditional Sleeping Beauty is a full scale three-hour production based on young girls’ favorite fairy tale; I brought my seven-year old girl who followed most of the performance with impressive attention to detail, but only you know if your child is ready.

Both performances take place at the Boston Opera House through May 27.  For tickets (starting at $35), call 617-695-6955 or check Boston Ballet’s website.

Remaining performances of The Concert (two hours with one intermission): Thursday, May 11 at 7:30 pm; Saturday, May 13 at 7:30 pm; Sunday, May 14 at 1pm; Thursday, May 18 at 7:30 pm; Sunday, May 21 at 1 pm; Friday, May 26 at 7:30 pm; Saturday, May 27 at 1 pm.

Remaining performances of the Sleeping Beauty (three hours with two intermissions): Friday, May 12 at 7:30 pm; Saturday, May 13 at 1 pm; Friday, May 19 at 7:30 pm; Saturday, May 20 at 1 pm; Saturday, May 20 at 7:30 pm; Thursday, May 25 at 7:30 pm; Saturday, May 27 at 7:30 pm.

As always, we thank Boston Ballet for inviting us to see their programs.

We are linking up with other #CulturedKids ideas around the world via The Pigeon Pair and Me Blog and with exciting travel destinations via #WeeklyPostcard blog link up at Travel Notes & Beyond Blog– check them out for your own trip ideas!!

In an ideal world, our everyday lives would be balanced and complete as they are.   In reality, many of us could use a “therapeutic” weekend getaway now and then to recharge and keep on going.  One of my favorite weekend recharge destinations is Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts (the Berkshires).

Kripalu in late March

Kripalu means different things for different people.  As the largest yoga retreat center in North America, it offers extensive yoga programming – in all traditions and for all levels,  but there are also a variety of wellness, personal growth and nutrition seminars (see upcoming schedule of programs here).   Personally, I am not committed to any particular wellness or yoga practice, but I always welcome new techniques to teach me some calm and to add balance to my life.  For someone like me, a flexible daily R&R program at Kripalu works best: the day is composed of short lectures and experiential seminars on a variety of subjects (follow this link for current schedule), and this program is available with a day pass!  (You can always come back to learn more on your favorite subject and even try to commit to a more permanent transformational goal “after Kripalu”. For me – a day of bliss is all I am looking for now!)

Here is how it worked for me on my most recent R&R day visit:

6:30 am Morning Yoga    I wish this was the case, but am not an early riser by no means, which, sadly, means that  I am missing morning yoga classes at Kripalu.   (I did try to push myself once, only to fall asleep in the middle of the morning lecture).  But yoga lovers should not despair. There are going to be many more opportunities to practice yoga during your Kripalu stay: morning, midday and afternoon yoga classes come with a “building” and are complimentary additions to all programs.

 8:30 am.  Breakfast.  Kripalu food (offered buffet style) is local and delicious and breakfast is my favorite meal – with a main egg dish and a variety of vegetables and healthy proteins (there is always a sandwich station for those with more “traditional” tastes).  And as of recently, coffee is available with breakfast!  There is a “silent breakfast” sign in some seating rooms, and if it is not your style, just move to another room.  My favorite is a small lake view dining room- this is where I choose my activities for the day as I enjoy breakfast by the window.

9 am. Creative Collaging.  At 9 there are typically 2-3 classes to choose from.  Today, there is a choice between Yoga Foundations (breathing techniques, alignments), Guided Hike and Creative Collage with Jess Frey.  I go for the Collage – a  lecture type class works best for me in the morning.  I am skeptical at first, as we are invited to envision our future by cutting out pictures and words from the magazines on the floor.  About an hour into the 1.5 hour class, my Kripalu moment happens.  I am totally in the moment – as far from my daily life and as close to myself as possible. “Do you specifically look for images that reflect your life goals or you just grab what jumps at you from the pages?” someone asks (might have been me, I get pretty talkative as I start “recharging”).

11 am. Human Rhythms, Earth Rhythms. Time for a second morning class.  This one is shorter, just a glimpse into the Native American medicine tool and how it is connected to nature’s seasonal transformations.  Our own life’s unfoldings are never too far either.

Christopher Holmes teaching Human Rhythms, Earth Rhythms

Noon Lunch  Yoga Dance. Even if you are a little hungry by now, do NOT miss a yoga dance at Kripalu. Imagine a group of women and men (more women, to be honest), following a teacher’s voice somewhere in the room, but mostly following their own internal dancer (and the music) as they get completely lost in the movements (live drums on Saturdays).  It is dance, it is therapy, it is communication with others in the room.  It is an hour long session, and I last for about 45 minutes  of it (a friend who stayed until the end once told me that the most intense healing happens during the last 15 minutes of class).  Happy and hungry I head straight to lunch.

Yoga Dance

1pm Lunch

One of my several lunch courses at Kripalu

My next class is not until 2pm, so I figure, I have time to indulge in the many freshly prepared courses.  I am actually wrong, because my …

2pm is a Slow Flow and Restore…- a movement based class! I follow others to the yoga mats, committed, but with a heavy…stomach.  Class description promises “melting into relaxation” at the end.  As tempting as it sounds, after about 10 minutes I realize that slow flow is still  too fast after lunch and I leave the room for …

2:15pm Sun Room.  Yes, a little nap in the sun room on 1^st floor.

3pm The day is now ripe for some sauna and hot tubbing (gender-separate and cloth optional).

5:30pm I have a 30-minutes massage appointment in Kripalu’s  Healing Arts spa.  Have you ever had a “meditative massage” or an “an integrated energy therapy”?  If not, Kripalu should be your place to try them- as you will likely have the best therapist of your life. They also offer facials and body treatments, as well as personal nutrition consultations (see full list of services here).

6pm Dinner is early and if you don’t plan your day right, you might miss it (5:30-7)

7:30pm Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra is one of my favorite classes at Kripalu.  It is actually a guided meditation to promote the deepest levels of relaxation – on physical, emotional and spiritual levels.  Laying down in a darkened warm room, there is nothing to do but follow  instructor’s voice while falling in and out of conscious hearing.  This was a perfect ending to my Kripalu “anti-yoga” recharge.

The room is ready for Divine Sleep session

Note on Lodging: unless you happen to live within an hour drive, I recommend spending the night in the area even if you come for a day visit.  Kripalu offers several types of accommodations (from hotel rooms to dorm rooms).  You are not required to stay at Kripalu during your program, but it is so very relaxing and convenient to get up and get to classes (or breakfast) in a minute.

Here is my queen room with a bathroom.   It is small and simple, but has all you need for your Kripalu R&R.

The Walks and the Beach Kripalu’s grounds are beautiful year-round- with guided walks and boating activities incorporated into the programming.  You can see the lake from many rooms  and they even have their own private lake beach!

Kripalu grounds in the summer

Helpful Tips for planning your first Kripalu visit:

–R&R day passes (start at $100) include three buffet style meals a day, unlimited yoga classes and sauna access- in addition to a programming of wellness classes that varies daily (see upcoming monthly schedule here)

–Who to Take with You: Over the years, I have gone with my Mom, a girlfriend, and with a group of girlfriends.  I would love to take my husband one day.  I could see how a solo trip would be right for many people, where you could just tune in… on yourself.

—As you plan your day, pay attention to meal times and if your day includes yoga and other experiential activities, be sure to allow 1.5-2 hours after meals (or make a sandwich at the sandwich station in the cafeteria – to eat after class)

—It can get crowded on weekends, consider arriving Sunday night or mid-week

—For same reason as above, if you are set on a weekend date, call ahead, as weekends often sell out

—In the summer, I like to combine my day retreats at Kripalu with other Berkshires’ cultural offerings (be sure to check my itineraries here).  Tanglewood music center is just across the street and you can easily fit an 8 pm concert on the day before your retreat.

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I thank Kripalu for kindly offering me one night’s accommodation and a day pass for the purposes of this review.  All opinions are my own and do not necessarily reflect those of Kripalu.

This post is linking up with #TheWeeklypostcard collection of travel stories at The Travel Notes and Beyond Blog.

While I never need a special reason to celebrate the weekend, calendar holidays offer wonderful excuses to spend time with the people we love.

Here are 10+ ideas on where to take a special Dad (or Grandad) in Boston to celebrate Father’s Day.

Father’s Day 2017 update: Heritage Museums and Garden in Sandwich on the Cape offers free admission for all Dads today, June 18, 2017.

Photo taken at Heritage Museums and Garden on the Cape

1. Let him Choose a Peaceful Target

Until I was invited to a media event at Ace Archers in Foxboro, I have not given arrow shooting a thought. But having hit some targets with my arrow, I  think it could be a great date night or family adventure for a Father’s Day celebration (kids must be 8+ to participate). Open Shooting is $14/hour with equipment included, no experience is necessary.

At Ace Archery in Foxboro

2. Invite him to a Sunday Jazz Brunch

The Beehive in South End serves their Sunday brunch 10am-3pm with live music (it is family-friendly); there is also Father’s Day Sunday Blues 8pm-12am if you have a night out in mind.  In fact, Beehive is my current favorite for any celebration on a town.

At the Beehive

3. Take Him on a Boat Ride

Charles River Canoe has 4 rental locations- in Boston, Cambridge, Newton and Waltham (they have paddles for kids starting at age 4; check website for specific location hours). They also have scheduled 3-hour harbor guided tours.

But if he does not want to do any steering himself, a day trip via Harbor Cruise to Provincetown may just be what he needs for relaxing day at sea and on land. June through Labor Day, the boats depart Long Wharf in Boston at 9, 2 and 6:30 (P-town departures are 11, 4 and 8:30pm – be sure to check the schedule on the website before you go).

You could also take him to explore a USS Constitution Ship in Charleston.  He is surely to be impressed by this world’s oldest commissioned warship afloat (and America’s ship of state). Open Saturday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

4. Take him to Class

Whether he is interested in glass blowing, photography, drawing or welding, you can find a weekly class or 1-day workshop for him at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston; weekend photography classes are also offered at Boston Center for Adult Education.

(It is even more fun if a family member could take a class with Dad. Here is Vit at the still life drawing class we took together at the Museum of Fine Arts.)

5. Let him Stare at Some Old Cars (all day, if he wants!)

At Lars Andersen Auto Museum (with its oldest car collection in the US) in Brookline (open Tues-Sun 10-4).

6. Take him Biking

Taking a Break On the Cape Cod Rail Trail

My favorite bike trail has been a Cape Cod Rail Trail on the Cape, but this weekend (weather permitting)  I plan to explore some new trails in nearby Rhode Island; for example the 14-mile East Bay Bike Path along the shore of Narraganset Bay seems relaxing and scenic.

Another local (in state) option is Minuteman Bikeway (connecting Cambridge and Bedford, via Arlington and Lexington).

7. Take him Camping.

While some of my favorite  campgrounds are on Cape Cod (Nickerson State Park and Sweet Water in Brewster), you are never too far from the campground in Massachusetts and many offer water views, such as Myles Standish State Forest in South Carver.

8. Build some Legos (he would actually HAVE to bring the kids to this one).

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston may even have a couple of updates for you since your last visit.

9. Take him for a walk on Greenway (This one is FREE!)

Well, this aerial sculpture is no longer displayed but the 1.5 walk along Boston Greenway with its 7 water works and plenty of greenery is still both entertaining and relaxing for the entire family (could these two things co-exist? you will be surprised!)

Boston’s Greenway

10. Take him Wine Tasting

There are a couple of options in Boston, including your local grocery store.   Whole Foods’ culinary art center in Dedham offers affordable tasting class on June 24^th, for a more high-end experience, check out City Wine Tour.

If you are willing to drive out of town, you could also check out the Greenvale Vineyards near Newport, RI.

And- as you are having summer fun on Father’s day and beyond, don’t forget about Free fun Friday project which allows 70 Museums throughout Massachusetts to open its door for free on Fridays during 10 weeks of summer.

While we enjoyed a free archery lesson during media event at Ace Archers, I received no compensation for recommending any of the above activities and places and I am doing so because I believe they are great choices for you to take  Dad on Father’s Day in Boston.

UPDATED FOR SUMMER OF 2017

I used to think of a Tanglewood concert (in Massachusetts Berkshires) as a romantic date night idea. Over the last couple of summers however, attending a Tanglewood concert has become our family’s tradition.

I have put together this list of things you may want to know about experiencing Tanglewood with family – so you could start your own Tanglewood summer family tradition!

1. DIVERSE MUSICAL PROGRAMMING (and seating) options

Tanglewood, (in its 77^th season), is a summer home of Boston Symphony Orchestra and also a center for advanced musical studies, welcoming nation’s leading young artists every summer to train and perform.

The rich and diverse Tanglewood programing includes not only the famous grand classical pieces, but also performances by the Boston Pops, and other internationally renowned artists in a variety of musical styles (there is Broadway, Jazz, Pop Rock,  Contemporary dance programs, Film musical events – see full summer 2017 schedule  HERE).

Last summer we got to experience Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue inside the Koussevitzky Music Shed.

As much as we enjoyed this magical experience, for families with young children, LAWN seating during the afternoon programs on Sundays at 2:30pm would be a more suitable choice.  And, children’s (under 18) tickets are always FREE for the lawn. (Note that children 5 and under are not permitted inside the Koussevitzky Music Shed Seiji Ozawa Hall during performances; there is no age restriction for the lawn).

2. SPECIAL KIDS PROGRAMMING

With its expansive concert lawn and grounds, Tanglewood is a place TO BE in the summer for families.

Vi and her friend Sasha chatting before the concert

To help  kids make musical connections, Tanglewood’s special children’s programming includes Kids’ Corner activities before concerts, Watch and Play educational sessions,  Instrument Playground, an annual Family Fest ( JULY 21 this summer) and an annual Family Concert (July 22).

Here is more information on these programs: take a note-and take advantage- of these activities as they play a big part in making Tanglewood visits fun for kids!

During the “Watch and Play” prior to the concert we have attended last summer, two lovely violinists – members of the Boston Symphony Orchestra – engaged the kids with questions (“How does this music makes you feel?”), rhyming exercises, and virtuoso musical jokes (“Have you tried playing one violin with 2 bows?).

Watch and Play before a Sunday Concert

This summer of 2017, “Watch and Plays” kids pre-concerts will be offered at 1pm on four Sundays at the Chamber Music Hall: July 9, July 23, August 6 and August 13.  The Chamber Music Hall is located near the Visitors Center, in the rear of the Lawn; the program is free with that day’s tickets (and children’s lawn tickets are always free).

Kids during “Watch and Play”

The minute we left “Watch and Play“, Vi and Sasha became engaged by another program that is offered on weekends- “Kids’ Corner” (right outside  the Chamber Music Hall, in the grassy area near Tanglewood Visitors’ Center).

Kids Corner

Kids Corner provides  casual drop in “musical” crafts before and during weekend performances . Start time is 9:30am on Saturdays and noon on Sundays; note that on the days of “Watch and Play”,  “Kids Corner” starts at 2pm. Kids must be accompanies by an adult. (Tickets to the Sunday concert or Saturday-morning rehearsal are required.)

Tanglewood Family Fun Fest 2017 is scheduled for Friday, July 21, from 1-5 pm (with educational scavenger hunt, Instrument Playground, and a series of live musical performances).   New this year: families have the opportunity to stay – for free – to watch the BSO’s 8pm concert from the lawn (as Maestro Gustavo Gimeno conducts a program of Bernstein and Tchaikovsky, featuring pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet). Advance registration is recommended; please CLICK HERE TO REGISTER for this event.

The Tanglewood Family Concert will follow on Saturday, July 22 at 1:30pm, with an engaging chamber music experience especially for children ages 3-8 and their families at Ozawa Hall. Preconcert activities begin at 11:30am. Tickets are $12, and children under 18 are free.  (To get free tickets for the Family Concert, call 888-266-1200).

3. CONCERT TIME: KIDS CAN STILL PLAY!

During the concert time on a Sunday afternoon, when not dancing, Vi and her friend Sasha were (mostly quietly) coloring. It’s acceptable for patrons on the lawn to get up and leave at times, or eat and drink, as long as does not excessively bother other patrons. (I can tell you that girls’ dancing during all performances they attended never bothered anyone).  Choose your lawn place “strategically” depending on your family’s needs. We had our blanket close to Shed, under a tree (for best shade). If it rains, you can quickly find refuge in the rear of the Shed; but some families prefer to position themselves further back in the rear of lawn, closer to play area (and bathrooms).

During the concert: kids can still play

If your kids need even more freedom to play than the Lawn area near the Concert Shed can offer (say, they would rather play ball) you can take them to the grassy area in the rear of the lawn, near the Visitors Center and in the Apple Tree lot of Ozawa Hall.

Grassy area where kids can run  during performances

4. PARENTS CAN ENJOY SOME WINE WITH THEIR PICNIC

I love putting time and effort into preparing my special “Tanglewood” picnic basket worthy of the occasion (and it seems that a number of other people do so).  But- you can just bring a bag of chips and still fit in. It is a wonderfully accepting place.

5. EXPANSIVE GROUNDS

The quality of Tanglewood musical performances is superb, but beautiful grounds are an essential part of the atmosphere.

You can see the Berkshire Mountains and the nearby Stockbridge bowl from some areas on the Lawn.  The Visitor’s Center (rear of the lawn) offers Exhibits and information on Tanglewood history; there are also walking tours of the grounds (call 413-637-5393  for more information) .  There are also several casual dining options, and ice-cream concession stands.  “Glass house” gift shop offers musical souvenirs and Tanglewood merchandise.

6. IT’S AFFORDABLE!

Tanglewood offers FREE lawn tickets for children and youth age 17 and younger (up to four free children’s tickets are available per adult; this offer does not extend to the “Popular Artist” series) at the Tanglewood Box Office on the day of the concert. You need to get your free tickets at the Box offices located at the entrance gates on the day of the concert.  Adult lawn tickets range between $10-$22 depending on the day and time of performance, and students’ 18 and older tickets are 50% off.

We usually come 1-2 hours prior to performance to set up and enjoy the grounds; they do not seem to run out of lawn tickets even if you come closer to performance time (with the exception of the 4^th of July when all tickets were sold out in advance). For advance ticket purchases, call 617-266-1200 or purchase on line HERE.

7. YOU CAN MAKE IT A DAY TRIP

From our suburb South of Boston, we have done both day trips and overnight visits to Tanglewood; it’s just over 2 hours one way for us (more in traffic, of course, but if you leave early, you should be fine).

8. ADDED PROGRAMMING FOR KIDS AND FAMILIES

NEW FOR 2017: On Sunday afternoons, July 9 through August 27, when the gates open at noon, there will be new activities and events for all ages to enhance your Tanglewood experience -at various locations throughout the grounds – food tastings, yoga, games for families, and more! From 12:30- 1:30, additional offerings including lectures, performances, and musical demonstrations, will take place in the Theater.  I can’t wait to come back to Tanglewood this July and will be sure to report to you about these new experiences!

MORE TIPS FOR YOUR TANGLEWOOD VISIT:

1. Come early for best lawn seating options. Ground Opening Times on the day of the concerts: Fridays- 5:30pm, Saturdays -5:30pm (for evening concerts); 9am for morning Rehearsals; Sundays: Noon for 2:30pm concert (check for special events).

2. Cooking and open flames are prohibited.

3. In the event of severe weather, patrons will be directed to shelters (no refunds offered).

4. Umbrellas are now permitted (and small open-sided canopies) to shade from the sun (no stakes over 6″ in length, or canopies of more than 6′ square or umbrellas exceeding 4′ in diameter. )

5. No pets (except for service animals) are allowed on Tanglewood property.

For more things to do in the beautiful Berkshires with kids, check out this Post.

Birthdays should be about special experiences with your loved ones and Boston is never short on things to do.  Finding an activity to engage multi-age kids is a challenge, however, but I take it on happily,  For my son’s recent 18^th birthday celebration I came up with the following “water-themed” evening in Boston Harbor: water-front dining, a harbor walk and a sunset cruise. Follow us along!

We start at “Barking Crab” on Sleeper Street in Boston’s Seaport district which offers casual dining on the water. It has recently moved into a new space next door to its original location, and is now much airier while maintaining it’s super casual vibe.   It is not cheap, but you cannot beat the location and the teen appeal!   (Parking was a challenge but we found a street meter on Northern Ave)

Casual fun at “Barking Crab”

After dinner we crossed the nearby Northern bridge onto the Atlantic Avenue, and just a few steps to the right entered the iconic Arch of the Boston Harbor Hotel at the Rowes Wharf.

On the Northern Bridge

Harbor Walk (in front of Boston Harbor Hotel at Rowe’s Wharf)

We continued along the Harbor Walk  to the Long Wharf where we were scheduled to take a sunset cruise.

Harbor Walk

There are several sunset cruise options satisfying various budgets.  I briefly considered dinner cruises, then settled on a Boston Harbor Cruises line.  (The cheapest option is probably a groupon for 4 ($35) on Mass Bay lines, but it was not available on the evening of our outing).  The vessel was not as new and shiny as I would have liked, but my family rather enjoyed the experience.  We sat on the outside deck the entire time, enjoying anecdotes from Boston history (via live narration) and observing Boston skyline in its twilight glory.

Boston skyline as seen from our sunset cruise

On the way back to the Long Wharf, as the sun was about to set our boat made a special stop alongside the USS Constitution docked on Pier One of the former Charlestown Navy Yard to observe a sunset flag lowering ritual. USS Constitution is the world’s oldest running battleship.

USS Constitution

After the cruise, we walked along Rose Kennedy Greenway back to our car (on Northern avenue). The Greenway is a delightful mile-long ribbon of parks, interactive fountains, playgrounds, and green space in the middle of the Atlantic Ave.  We love our Greenway walks on sunny summer days, and we found the lit up fountains to be quite entertaining in the evening as well!

One of Greenway’s lighted water structures: there are seven of them on Greenway

Greenway’s Fountain

For Greenway horticultural tours, open air free concerts and other events, check out Greenway’s website here.

How do you celebrate your own family birthdays- in Boston or wherever you are- please share in the comments!

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UPDATED FOR 2017

Thanks to a very dear family connection, we spend many summer weekends on Cape Cod enjoying its beautiful beaches.  In the fall (with all the kids’ activities), we don’t get to visit as often, but we look forward to the opportunity to get off the beach chairs and follow our favorite biking path to the National Seashore.

For our readers outside of Massachusetts, Cape Cod – locally known as “The Cape” – is a geographical cape extending into the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of southeastern Massachusetts. 

Here are some of our fall weekend activities on the Cape:

Biking on Cape Cod Rail Trail

There are several biking trails – with a total of 114 miles of biking paths on the Cape – along the ocean vistas, meadows and lakes.  Our favorite is the Cape Cod Rail Trail (CCRT), which follows a former railroad way for 22 miles from the town of Dennis in the south through the towns of Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet.  The surface is paved and the hills are few – what’s not to like for a family of casual bikers?

Wooded path of the CCRT in Eastham

There are several rental shops along the Trail, the biggest being Barb’s at the southern end of the Trail in Dennis.

Exploring the Beaches of  the National Seashore

You are never too far from a beautiful beach on the Cape!  In the summer, we prefer the warm water beaches of Nantucket Sound in Hyannis, but in the fall we go further to the outer Cape to admire the dunes and waves of the National Seashore Beaches.

Cape Cod Rail Trail has several access points to National Seashore: this past weekend we got off the trail for a walk and a picnic at Marconi Beach in Eastham.  There are no life guards on the beaches after Labor Day but parking lots stay open all year (parking fees are not collected after Labor Day).

Marconi Beach, National Seashore.

Visiting a Museum

We have recently  “discovered” Heritage Museums & Gardens in Sandwich, which houses American cultural artifacts in its three galleries and features the largest garden in all of Southern New England.  There are numerous nature trails and hidden treasures (and a nature playground for the kids) to spend a full day exploring the indoor and outdoor collections.

The Gardens: Photograph taken on location at Heritage Museums & Gardens, Sandwich, MA

The Museum is open mid April through mid October on a regular basis (through October 9 in 2017), but will reopen for Halloween Festival on October 28, and then for Gardens Aglow Winter Wonderland on November 24 through the end of December (on weekends).

New This Fall at Heritage: Hoppy Fall Festival and beer tasting: September 23.

The Old American Car Collection. Photograph taken on location at Heritage Museums & Gardens, Sandwich, MA

Visiting the Water Park

We have visited the indoor/outdoor water park at Cape Codder Resort in Hyannis on some rainy summer days before, but last weekend after our 15-mile bike ride it felt especially good to float along the path of the “lazy river”.

Vi floating in the “lazy river” at Cape Codder

After a major recent renovation, the park now has four slides, a lazy river, little kids splash area, 10,000 sf wave pool, as well as hot tub and sauna for parents.  In the summer, they open the retractable roof to let the sun in. Call ahead for day passes or check their website here.

New waterslides under retractable roof of Cape Codder Water Park

Vi is splashing in the kiddie area

Day Tripping to the nearby islands of Martha Vineyard and Nantucket

We have yet to make it to the island of Nantucket, but we have enjoyed several day trips to the island of Martha’s Vineyard (seven miles off the southern coast of Cape Cod) over the years.  (Read This post about our most recent visit for lots of practical tips on getting to and around the island).

Aquinnah Lighthouse. Martha Vineyard

Going Camping

There are numerous campgrounds on the Cape and September-October is typically mild enough to enjoy a family camping weekend, and even go for a swim.

One of our favorite campgrounds on Cape Cod is the North of Highland Camping area in Truro.  This campground in the pine tree forrest is situated directly on the preserved National Seashore and provides access to Head of the Meadow Beach.

North of Highlands Camping Area. (No, this is not a secret product placement, but I love our new tent!)

Path to the Beach. North of Highlands Camping

Head of the Meadows Beach. National Seashore

Visit a Theater Festival

Provincetown annual Tennessee Williams Theater Festival brings innovative theater from around the globe to Cape Cod every September.  This year’s theme: Tennessee Williams and William Shakespeare.  Audiences will experience Williams and Shakespeare plays and may get a new understanding of both playwrights.

Here are some other theater events on Cape Cod:  WHAT (Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theater) offers “thought-provoking” programming year-round.  If you are looking for more  family-oriented programming, check out the Cape Cod Theatre Company (home of Harwich Junior Theater) and The Cape Playhouse (Dennis).

Walking the Main Street

Without the summer traffic and crowds, fall weekends might be the best time to visit the colorful Provincetown at the very tip of the Cape.   We typically visit every fall: walk the main (Commercial street), eat the Malassadas (fried dough) at the Portuguese bakery in the center of town and enjoy some oysters with a water view  at the food court (yes, they serve oysters in the food court here!).

You could also take a walking tour to learn about the town’s rich literary heritage or let a van tour take you to the dunes (I heard Art’s Dune Tours are great).

“Hidden” waterfront dining spot at the food court on Commercial Street

Here are more places to explore:

Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge in Chatham.  Boat rides to the refuge are offered May-October, but you might also view the seals on the sand bar along the harbor inlets or at the Chatham Fish Pier (5 Barcliff Ave).  Go hiking on the Morris Island trail and watch some interesting shorebird species.

Woods Hole Science Aquarium is small public aquarium with 140 species of marine animals from Northeast and Middle Atlantic waters.  Entrance is free (donations welcome).

Truro Vineyards offer daily wine tastings from April to December, and the tours from Memorial Day to Columbus Day.

Have you visited the Cape in the fall? What are some of your favorite things to do?

Note: We received media passes to some of the attractions mentioned in the post. Check the websites for current ticket pricing.

This post has been updated for 2017!

While my favorite  New England season is summer, fall comes very close second. With an ever time-consuming summer pass time (the beach!) no longer factoring into our weekends, there is time to appreciate many other outdoor celebrations in New England – within a short drive from Boston.

Here is what’s on our TO DO list this fall.

LEAF PEEPING IN NEW HAMPSHIRE’S WHITE MOUNTAINS

It is not difficult to find your spot to observe the bright colors of New England fall (even if only while driving to work on I-495). But with just a little driving effort, you can enjoy the legendary New England foliage colors in full glory.

We took this photo near Castle in the Clouds estate in Moultonborough, New Hampshire (2.5 hour drive from Boston).

There are several easy hikes alongside cascading brooks, and the Castle itself is a gorgeous early 1900’s estate settled  “in the clouds” on top of the lake Winnipesaukee.

Castle in the Clouds Estate in Moultonborough, New Hampshire

Another fall foliage favorite, Kancamagus Highway stretches for 35 miles across New Hampshire’s White Mountains, from Lincoln to Conway, with many opportunities to stop for a view, walk or picnic.

Rocky Gorge Scenic Area off the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire

The peak of foliage in the White Mountains is expected in mid-October, here is a link to White Mountains’ fall foliage report to help you plan your own leaf peeping.

MASSACHUSETTS FARM VISIT

There is no apple picking at Appleton Farms in Ipswich, MA- the oldest, continuously operating farm in North America, but let that not deter you from a day of “earthy” family fun. During our recent visit as guests of The Trustees our daughter Vi met the newest baby cows on the farm and then participated in the bread and butter making class.

Bread Making

To pick your own farm festival to visit, check out this list of Trustee’s fall farm events and festivals here.

The Trustees is Massachusetts’ largest preservation organization with over 100 natural, scenic and cultural sites across the state in their care, including Appleton Farms and Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich, Weir River Farm in Hingham, Bird Park in Walpole, the Governor Ames Estate in Easton, and The Trustees KITCHEN at the Boston Public Market.

APPLE PICKING

(with its companions – apple donuts and apple cider) is our other fall MUST. Our current picking choice- is Westward Orchards in Harvard, Massachusetts.  You can find a quiet spot for a picnic under the apple tree, and there is a big country store with apple donuts and other goodies.

Westward Orchards in Harvard, MA

The orchard closes at 5:00pm (wagon rides 11-4 daily). Check their website for seasonal apple’s varieties.

SEASIDE BIKING IN MASSACHUSETTS AND RHODE ISLAND

Biking while leaf peeping is our favorite kind of biking and here are our 2 favorite bike paths:

Cape Cod Rail Trail in Massachusetts (CCRT) is a relatively flat paved bikeway that runs 25 miles from South Dennis to Wellfleet along scenic lakes, meadows and ocean vistas.

Fall Biking at Cape Cod Rail Trail

Our other favorite is a 14-mile East Bay Bike Path in  Bristol, Rhode Island which runs for 14 miles along the Narraganset Bay and offers an opportunity to stop at a scenic Colt State Park.

along East Bay bike bath in Bristol, RI

East Bay Bike Path

Minuteman Bikeway in Massachusetts connects Cambridge and Bedford, via Arlington and Lexington.

WALKING ON THE BEACH ON CAPE COD

National Seashore beaches on Cape Cod, Massachusetts (such as Marconi Beach in Wellfleet ) offer gorgeous sea vistas in any season.  See our full list of Cape Cod’s fall weekend favorites here.

National Seashore, Cape Cod

PUMPKIN SPECTACULAR

There is no fall in New England without a pumpkin, and you can bring one home from a number of  farms near you. For pumpkin carving turned into a form of art, check out Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular at Roger Williams Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island, a nighttime display of 5000 illuminated lanterns (and pumpkins carved into forms of art) daily starting at 6 pm (October 5 through November 5th this year).

We made a mistake of going on a Saturday night last year and it took us about an hour and a half to get to the display.  Go on a weeknight, or go late (there were no lines as we were exiting the Zoo at 10pm ).   Adult tickets are $18/kids are $15 (yes, prices went up a bit this year!)   Check their website for discounted fares and  closing times.

Jack-O-Lantern Spectatular at Roger Williams Zoo

HALLOWEEN GHOST TOURING IN THE BERKSHIRES, MA

There are many ghost tour options around, but why not combine the “spookiness” with some culture and haunt the ghosts at historic estates.

The Ghost Tours at The Mount (writer Edith Wharton’s estate in Lenox, Massachusetts) are hosted on Friday and Saturday nights in October, concluding with Halloween Ghost Tour on October 31 at 8 and 10:30 pm.

With its 3 acres of formal gardens designed by Edith Wharton herself, the Mount is a gorgeous site in the fall

Naumkeag, another architectural masterpiece of the Gilded Age in the Massachusetts Berkshires  (Stockbridge, MA) with magnificent garden and panoramic views offers its own version of the Haunted House  on Saturday October 28.

The view onto the Berkshires Mountains from Naumkeag Estate

For more Spooky East Coast ideas check out this post from We3Travel.

ROAD TRIPPING IN COASTAL MAINE

With summer traffic out of the way, fall is a perfect time to visit Maine. We have gone on a coastal Maine road trip on our anniversary weekend in mid-September, but Maine’s coast could be enjoyed for many more weekends in the fall. While a visit to Portland and BoothBay Harbor are more suited for a weekend (or longer) trip, a drive to Ogunquit is less than 1.5 hours from Boston and could be easily done as a day trip.

BoothBay Harbor, Maine

CITY TOURING IN NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND

On a recent Saturday in Newport, RI, (as guests of Discover Newport) we took a tour with Viking Trolley Tours.  We were excited to go beyond our “usual” Newport day trip itinerary of Cliff Walk and downtown’s Bannister’s Wharf to the scenic Ocean Drive where we discovered our “new”  favorite spot – Gooseneck Cove.

Gooseneck Cove, Newport

GETTING ON THE WATER

We have done this in early September, but sailing in Newport, RI is going strong through the end of October. Just watch for sunny days (or dress warmly).

WINE TASTING at historic Greenvale Vineyards on Sakonnet River in Portsmouth, Rhode Island (6 miles from downtown Newport) is combined with live Jazz tastings 1-4 pm on Saturdays through December 9 this year.  Read about our visit here.

Jazz Saturday at Greenvale Vineyards

MAKING MEMORIES AT STORYLAND, NEW HAMPSHIRE

My favorite New England kids’ park – Storyland in Glenn, New Hampshire is not your typical “amusement” park. It is smaller in size but offers many “hands-on” play areas that are popular with kids (up to age 8, probably) and their parents.   The park is open through Columbus Day Monday, October 9. Check out their website for daily closing times and beware certain rides’ seasonal closing. I am sure your young kids will thoroughly enjoy the visit and you will be able to stop at scenic Kancamagus Highway on your way back home.

Storyland Park in Glenn, HN offers lots of whimsical fun for young kids and even occasional mountain vistas for parents

This year we probably won’t get to HIKE the Monument Mountain or Mount Greylock (Massachusetts highest point) in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts, but I  recommend to add the mountain hike to your own New England fall list.

WHAT IS ON YOUR FALL LIST?

 PIN THIS FOR LATER

The outdoors are still calling with its crisp late fall air, but it is time to start sharing our weekends with the finest of Boston’s arts. This past weekend, my husband and I went on a date to celebrate  Boston Ballet’s new season which opened with Obsidian Tear.  (The program – based on a music of two most prominent Finnish composers, from the past and the present, – was also a celebration of upcoming Finnish 100^th independence).

Obsidian Tear is a duo of powerful contemporary works: North American premiere of Wayne McGregor’s Obsidian Tear (co-production with Royal Ballet of London, set to music of Esa-Pekka Salonen) and world premier of Fifth Symphony of Jean Sibelius by Boston Ballet’s own resident choreographer Jorma Elo.

Boston Ballet in Wayne McGregor’s Obsidian Tear; photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy Boston Ballet

The evening opens with orchestral performance of Sibelius’ famous short work – symphonic poem Finlandia.  It is a remarkable piece of music to set the stage for the evening.  I could almost “see” the darkened Finnish landscapes and “feel” the thick snow under my feet.  I am ready for the forces of nature to take over the stage.  In fact, the very name for Obsidian Tear (as I learned from the program notes) takes inspiration from the epic geological journey of the volcanic rock, obsidian, and is a metaphor for the many emotional and social forces attacking human life.

On stage that evening – we did see a powerful duel.  Was it a slice of a particular country or a community we were supposed to recognize? Or a glimpse into some futuristic utopian community? McGregor (“finest choreographer alive”, according to Boston Ballet’s artistic director Mikko Nissinen) fully embraces the ambiguity of contemporary dance.   As we watch the performance, he wants us to go on our own “individual journey” reflecting our own life experiences.  He even purposefully leaves the pronunciation of Obsidian Tear ambiguous – so you can do a bit of a “work” and decide for yourself: is it a “tear” as in weeping or a “tear” as in ripping apart?

Boston Ballet in Wayne McGregor’s Obsidian Tear; photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy Boston Ballet

Did we know what was behind the complex movements of nine male dancers on stage last night – at every moment of the performance?  Absolutely NOT! Did we enjoy the meditative self-journey that is at the core of contemporary dance? Yes! And without even realizing it – for moments at a time – we were in absolute sync with what was happening on stage.  (And the rest of the time – we just enjoyed the power of human body in the capable hands of the choreographic force that is Wayne McGregor!).

The music for the second piece of the evening- Fifth Symphony by Sibelius – felt like a “national anthem”, in parts, to its Finnish-born creator Jorma Elo.   Elo transferred the feeling into his ballet, recreating the contrasting Finnish nature via a series of dramatic and intimate configurations of the company’s dancers.  (Creating a contemporary composition for the full company was a special challenge of this work!)

Boston Ballet in Jorma Elo’s Fifth Symphony of Jean Sibelius; photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy Boston Ballet

This second program of the evening was just breathtaking in the beauty of its “classical” lines.  It is a full company piece, but I was mesmerized by my favorite stars – Lia Cirio, Junxiong Zhado, John Lam, Misa Kuranaga.  Some may say Fifth Symphony was a more “predictable” contemporary work, but I loved it – and the combination with purposefully ambiguous Obsidian Tear was a brilliant way to open the season for Boston Ballet.

Which piece of the evening will you claim for yourself?

Here are some facts about Obsidian Tear and its creator Wayne McGregor to help you prepare for the experience:

– McGregor, resident choreographer of Royal Ballet of London, first worked with Boston Ballet in 2013 when he staged his 2006 ballet Chroma for the company.  We saw it in 2015 and still have memories of “geometric” explosions created by 10 dancers. 10 years is a long time in the life of a prolific contemporary choreographer.  The style much evolved: I saw  more “rawness”, and less boundaries in everything.

– Music (by the renowned Finnish composer/conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen) was the inspiration for McGregor’s work.  For Obsidian Tear he juxtaposed composer’s two contrasting pieces: intimate Lachen verlernt for solo violin and the grand symphonic poem Nyx.  McGregor likened Salonen’s music to a “dialogue between myth and modernity that seems simultaneously both ancient and of the future.” You can read more about the mythological origins of Nyx on the Boston Ballet’s website.

– In realizing his stage vision, McGreggor is joined by lighting designer Lucy Carter, and by renowned fashion director Katie Shillingford. The stage designs have been created by McGregor himself (“We’ve kept it simple: a huge wooden floor, no sidelights, the wings are totally out. A glowing strip of orange floor light suggests a volcanic source, but also a sense of  threat. It’s a scenography that is deliberately bold and declared, but because of that, the body in the space is also exposed and vulnerable.”)

– The nine male characters  on stage are dressed in ready-to-wear designer clothing—the first-time a ballet has been “styled” instead of “costumed.” Fashion director Katie Shillingford approached the project like a fashion shoot by selecting pieces from the Spring-Summer 2016 collections by fashion designers including Vivienne Westwood, Craig Green, Hood By Air, and Assaf Reeb. (“Pretty much all of the garments were available for the general consumer,” said  Shillingford)

– Outside of his work for the Royal Ballet and companies around the world (from New York City Ballet to Paris Opera Ballet), McGregor directed opera at La Scala and Milan, staged for movies (“Harry Potter and the Goblet of  Fire”) and has his own company that does about 100 shows a year.

Remaining performances of Obsidian Tear are daily in Boston Opera House from Wednesday, November 8^th through Sunday November 12. (Note a post-performance talk after Wednesday, November 8^th, show.)

All performances of Obsidian Tear are in Boston Opera House.We thank Boston Ballet for inviting us to see the performance. Tickets start at $35. For more information visit bostonballet.org.

Fall means so many beautiful things in my beloved Berkshires of Western Massachusetts.  Among them – an Annual Fall Festival of Shakespeare – which is coming to Shakespeare & Company on November 16-19, 2017. I hear the house is going to be packed during this “rock concert of Shakespeare” (according to WBUR Radio Boston) – as high-school students from MA and NY showcase full-scale Shakespeare plays produced with the help of the Company’s directing teams.

With acclaimed theater productions, actor training and educational initiatives such as the Annual Fall Festival, Shakespeare & Company is one of the largest Shakespearean festivals in the country.

This last summer we have added a backstage tour of the theater’s grounds in Lenox, MA into our traditional Berkshires summer family weekend.  Follow us along and start planning your own Berkshires weekend!

Touring Shakespeare & Co with the Company’s manager Brittany during our trip last summer

It is a working theater company, so summer afternoons are busy with productions (the show season lasts roughly from April through November, with the summer months being the busiest). But on this summer weekend morning – the entire 3-stage theater is ours! We start at the Tina Packer Playhouse where Shakespeare’s Cymbeline is in production, directed by Tina Packer herself.   (Tina Packer is the company’s founding artistic director -since 1978- when she came from her native England with an idea to create a theater that would merge the best attributes of the two countries’ theatrical heritage (language and movement).

Tina Parker Playhouse is a flexible Shakespearean-style space with audience close to the action on all sides of the stage and on two levels.

Main Stage of the Tina Packer Playhouse

Kids sit quietly for a few minutes before they find the stage trap to explore.

Exploring what’s underneath the stage trap

The stage is set for Cymbeline: “Why are there costumes on stage?”

Kids won’t stop ask questions and it is a while before we are ready to move on to the Green Room (an actor’s lounge in “theater speak”) just outside of stage.

Shakespearean theater has always been closely linked with the outdoors, and the grounds of Shakespeare & Co. are lovely!  I breath in that special “Berkshires” air and smell the flowers. The plants in the garden include the many plants that are mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays and they are each marked with the names of plays and scenes!

New outdoor stage called The Roman Garden is being constructed right in front of us for the Tempest (the play opened later in the summer of 2017).

We pass by another outdoor stage – the tented Rose Footprint – which is actually a reconstruction of the first level of Shakespeare’s first London theatre, the Rose Playhouse.

Back indoors, we find ourselves in the very intimate  Elayne P. Bernstein Theatre where the stage is set for 4000 Miles by Amy Herzog, in its last production weekend. It is an acclaimed comic drama about “growing up, growing old—and discovering the moments in between”. (Pulitzer Prize finalist and Winner of the 2012 Obie Award for Best New Play.)

Set of 4000 Miles. Shakespeare and Company.

–Why this play?

-It’s modern of course, but it feels Shakespearean to us, – explains Brittany. (Company mission is built on “exploring the universal themes of human experience”.  I  also later read in the brochure that a scene in 4000 Miles reminded its director Nicole Ricciardi of the famous “balcony” scene in Romeo and Juliet.)

We try to get the last minute tickets (the play is in its last performance weekend), but it is sold out – so start planning early for next season!

We “console” ourselves in the Costume shop (it’s a hit with the kids!), and then, at the the Shoe shop, the Prop Shop and the Armory room.

We leave yarning to return – next time, to see a show, with or without the kids.

The tour is typically offered in the summer and early fall. Check the calendar and call ahead to reserve.  We thank the Company for their generous time with us.

We are linking up with the #CulturedKids November collection of culture travel stories from around the world!

December -with its month-long celebration of several holidays, is my kind of month.

This is what has been on our December Holidays list over the years (all links and dates updated for 2017:

First December weekend was about tree lightings and holiday street marches – as far as Stockbridge (the Berkshires) and Kennebunkport (Maine) to mark the beginning of holiday month.  I promise to start early next year and let you know about these events ahead of time.

Our month of celebrations traditionally starts with The Nutcracker at the Boston Ballet (At Boston Opera House, November 24- December 31). Last year we attended media Dress Rehearsal and had a chance to witness the creative process and see the dancers up close and personal.  (Read our report here). (This year we missed the dress rehearsal as we were getting into winter holiday spirit at Skate America in Lake Placid, NY (read our report here).

Watching the Nutcracker with the spirited holiday audience in a festively decorated Opera House, was a lot of fun as well.

Patrick Yocum and Delia Wada-Gill in Mikko Nissinen’s TheNutcracker. Photo by Liza Voll Photography

The Nutcracker to the music of Tchaikovsky is a perfect “starter” ballet with good amount of “accessible” theatrical action, yet, according to Boston Ballet artistic director (and choreographer of Boston Ballet’s Nutcracker) Mikko Nissinen, “technically challenging” which allows dancers to “grow with the company and explore variety of roles and characters.”  Last Sunday, December 3,  principal dancers Eris Nezha (The Nutcracker Prince), Lasha Khozashvili (Drosselmeier), and Junxiong Zhao (Indian Dancer) were on stage, but production includes the full Company of 56 dancers, 10 Boston Ballet II dancers and 250 Boston Ballet school dancers. Each performance is accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s renowned score performed by the Boston Ballet Orchestra, led by three conductors: Principal Guest Conductor Beatrice Jona Affron and guest conductors Kenneth Hsieh and Geneviève Leclair.

Did you know that Nissinen’s Nutcracker marks the first time Boston Ballet built a production entirely from “scratch” – or rather sketches by designer Robert Perdziola- by craftsmen from all over the United States?

This year, there is a special New Year’s Eve at The Nutcracker: Sunday, December 31 at 7 pm with a special, one-night-only version of the ballet, all-star cast and added twists and treats to the Boston Opera House stage and patron experience. Tickets at bostonballet.org.

On Thursday, December 7, from 10:30am-12:30pm, Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker will be visiting LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston. Activities will include story time with the Sugar Plum Fairy, photo ops with the Nutcracker Bear and more. If you can’t make it, the Center is having special holiday activities planned for the entire month of December (be sure to check out their newly displayed gigantic lego-built slide).

As to the Nutcracker , there are several versions happening in Boston, including the Urban Nutcracker (December 15-25, John Hancock Hall).

Hanukkah at the Museum of Fine Arts

Hanukkah starts on December 12 (this year) and on the second night, December 13, Museum of Fine Arts Boston offers a free for all celebration night starting at 4pm with community candle lighting at 6:30pm.  Enjoy musical performances, tours, Judaica collection, make art – in this one of a kind community celebration of arts and culture.  Check full program here.

Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer: the Musical will be At the Shubert Theatre Boston for 11 performances, December 14-17, 2017. (We will report back to you after we see it on December 14)(for tickets, visit bochcenter.org, or call 866-348-9738)

Another holiday show in town is Elf the Musical – through December 10 this year – at the Wang Center. For half-priced tickets, go to bostix.org

Gardens Aglow at the Heritage Museum in Sandwich

We love our summer and fall trips to the Cape so much that we were willing to drive out of town for the Gardens Aglow celebration at Heritage Museums & Gardens in Sandwich.   On December weekends through Dec. 30, 4:30-8:30 pm (be sure to check the link above for exact dates) the holiday lights transform this largest Southern New England garden into winter wonderland with the distinct New England “heritage” flair.

Gardens Aglow: Photographs taken on location at Heritage Museums & Gardens, Sandwich, MA

Last year we visited on the opening weekend and saw the model train passing through Cape Cod Canal in the special exhibit gallery, admired traditional holiday table designs by local artists, climbed the antique car in the permanent exhibit hall, and of course rode the historical carousel until closing time.  For details and tickets, check the website.

Holiday Pops Kids Matinees

Beloved Boston Pops Orchestra performs special holidays concerts with traditional sing-alongs and post-concert photo opportunities.  Here is our report from our Boston Pops Kids Matinee last December (for December 2017 dates, check this listing: on Saturdays and Sundays through December 24^th).  For discounted tickets, try bostix deal.

Keith Lockhart and Boston Pops at Kids’ Holiday Matinee

Brookline’s Puppet Theater will have a holiday sing-along show for kids under 3 on December 20.  For kids 5+, their school vacation week program offers Brothers Grimm’ Hansel and Gretel performed by National Marionettes Theater, the oldest continuously running marionettes theater in the country (we have seen several performances with them, they are amazing puppeteers brought up in the European puppetry traditions).  For other holiday shows and showtimes, check full December calendar here.

Blinking at Faneuil Hall

An updated FREE Holiday musical lights show Blink! will light up the Faneuil Hall Marketplace for five weeks beginning November 29, 2017 through January 1, 2018. The largest tree in the northeast, an 85-foot decorated tree has its lights synchronized to music – every night- every half-hour from 4:30 to 10pm!

This year there is also a new weekly series of performances held on four Saturdays in December in partnership with CBS Radio in Boston and local charitable organizations. (check Blink website for full listing of the concerts)

Faneuil Hall during the holidays

Frog Pond Skating at Boston Common is officially open!

Boston Common’s main Nova Scotia tree has been officially lit since December 1.  When you come to America’s oldest public park during the holidays, be sure to stop at the famous Frog Pond for some skating lessons or just to watch from the boards.  Check the website for schedule, rentals, and lessons (currently open!).

Frog Pond skating ring at the Boston Common. Photo Credit: Skating Club of Boston

More Holiday Ideas:

Massachusetts Trustees of Reservations with over 100 historical properties throughout the state in their care make a special effort to prepare for the season. Here is a full list of holiday to do’s on trustees’ properties (including Boston Market events, Bradley Estate happenings and nature outings).

Christmas at Sturbridge Village

For families interested in learning about  historical Christmas, Sturbridge Village (about an hour drive west of Boston) presents Christmas by Candlelight celebrations on weekends,  December 2- through December 23.

Holiday at the Newport Mansions 

Three of the famous gilded age mansions in Newport, Rhode Island, invite you to tour and admire holiday music and decorations.  The three houses – Breakers, The Elms and Marble House (all are National Historic Landmarks) will be open daily for tours from November 18 through Saturday, January 1, 2018.   Here is the link for tickets and schedules. And while you are in the city, go on a Newport Holiday stroll (weekend of December 10).

Boston Winter Wonderland at City Hall Plaza

One of Boston’s newest holiday venture at City Hall Plaza, complete with winter bazaar, skating path, chocolate and wine tastings.  Entrance is free, but some of the tastings are fee-based (more here).

ZooLight holiday stroll in Stoneham Zoo (Stoneham, MA) promises a winter wonderland of trees and lights November 24-December 31 (5-9pm).

Edaville Railroad in Carver, MA, offers Christmas-lit train rides during its Festival of Lights (through through December 31). Trains run on an hourly schedule.

Skiing Day Trips

While a ski weekend with friends and family is always fun (read my 7 Tips for fun ski getaway) skiing day trip within 1-3 hour drive from Boston is a possibility.   In the past winters, we enjoyed day trips to Loon and Gunstock Mountains in New Hampshire, and to the Wachusett and a “very” local Blue Hill reservation in Massachusetts  (check snow conditions first, of course).

Weekend Trips

There is so much to do in and around Boston during the holidays, but if you get the cabin-fever over long holiday weekend and yearn go on a road trip, here is our Eastern Townships of Quebec winter weekend ideas;  and several holiday ideas in New York City.

Our “own” winter hut in the woods of Sutton, Quebec

Winter Wonderland at NYC Bryant Park

BOSTON’S FIRST NIGHT

In my family, we traditionally spend the New Year’s night at home.  For families who like to ring the New Year on the town, the First Night/Day Boston on December 31, 2017- January 1, 2018 continues to be free and open for all and will feature fireworks and special cultural performances and celebrations throughout the city.  The detailed schedule is on this website.

We are linking up with #Culturedkids stories from around the globe

I LOVE planning complex itineraries for long vacations, but sometimes life gets in the way, making vacation planning difficult or altogether impossible.  Yet, a weekend road trip escape a couple of hours away from home is easier to accomplish than a longer trip requiring an air travel.  And don’t underestimate what a WEEKEND can do to restore a family’s sense of well-being!

So here is our WEEKEND TRAVEL recap for 2017 (click on the links below for the stories about each trip).  I hope it will inspire you to have your own weekend getaways more often.

MOM’S YOGA RETREAT IN MASSACHUSETTS BERKSHIRES

Kripalu Center of Yoga and Health in Stockbridge, MA

In March, I went on a weekend yoga retreat to Kripalu center of Yoga and Health in the Massachusetts Berkshires.  I went with a friend to engage in a series of well-being seminars and –some- movement.  This is something every busy mom should try to do once in a while –  get away by yourself, leaving the daily worries behind and re-assessing some personal goals.   Just look for a retreat center near you within 1-2 hour drive.

COUPLE’S ESCAPE TO EASTERN TOWNSHIPS OF QUEBEC

Spa Balnea, Bromont, Canada

Another one of the yearly weekends I propagate is a couple’s weekend away.  We try to go every year for our anniversary weekend in September, and for the last couple of years, Eastern Townships region of Quebec, Canada (roughly, a 4.5-hour drive from Boston) has been our couple’s weekend destination.  Our agenda this year included a visit to our favorite North American day Spa Balnea in Bromont and food and wine tasting at the annual September Harvest Festival in Magog.

Tasting food and wine at Magog’s annual Harvest Fair last September

NORTHEAST COLLEGE TOURING: PENNSYLVANIA

Pennsylvania State University in State College, PA

I think every family with a high school student should put college touring on their weekend agenda.  Not only it is a useful tool in helping your high-schooler assess or re-assess their ideas about the type of campus they want to be a part of, planned right, it becomes a great way to experience some interesting cities and towns (and historical campuses) within a driving distance of home- as a family.  On our weekend college trip to Pennsylvania last April (we have grouped together several weekend college touring trips and I will do a separate post about it), we have stopped in a charming town of State College (Pennsylvania State University) and in a re-emerging city of Pittsburg (University of Pittsburg, Carnegie Mellon University).  (Disclaimer: this particular weekend involved a lot of driving but was still worth it!)

In State Point Park in Pittsburgh, PA, at the confluence of Allegheny and Monongahela rivers, where they form the Ohio River

FAMILY SKI WEEKENDS: QUEBEC, CANADA

We actually enjoyed not one but two family ski weekends in calendar year 2017, both in Canadian Quebec: to a town of Sutton in Eastern Townships of Quebec in February (about a 4.5 hour drive from Boston) and to a ski resort of Mont-Tremblant (7+hours away) in December.  Our college freshman son joined us for the Tremblant trip; ski weekends work well for a multi-age family weekend escape.   Every family member can choose the slopes for their level and non-skiers can enjoy a wintery walk or snow-shoeing.

Mont-Tremblant Resort

SUMMER CULTURE WEEKEND IN THE BERKSHIRES

Tanglewood summer

Culture weekends in the Berkshires (about 2 hours away from Boston) is now our annual family tradition – we even have several friends’ families join us.  On our agenda last July: a visit to Tanglewood Music Center for a lawn concert and children’s pre-concert, Jacob Pillow Dance Center for a Family Concert, and a backstage tour of the Shakespeare and Co theater in Lennox.

Free Saturday Night Performance at Jacobs Pillow

FAMILY WEEKEND ON CAPE COD

Being an 1.5-hour drive away, we spend several weekends on the Cape every summer.  We were lucky to spend Labor Day weekend with extended family on the Cape last September, celebrating my birthday with my parents, friends and my brother’s family.

Hanging out with my brother in Hyannis harbor

Taking a cruise in Hyannis Harbor with visiting family last July (you can find things to do on the Cape even in the rain)

Birthday dinner with my parents at our favorite Alberto’s on Hyannis’ Main Street

BOSTON WEEKEND WITH FAMILY

When your family visit from Australia, you take them on a tour of Boston, land, sea et all! (thanks to my brother for organizing).

on a Duck Tour of Boston with visiting family 

Boston as seen from a Duck tour

GYMNASTICS WEEKEND IN MONTREAL, CANADA

Montreal Olympic Stadium

In October, I was accredited to cover world’s gymnastic championships in Montreal’s Olympic Arena and my family joined me for a weekend of Montreal city fun.  We visited the Old Town on a walking tour, cruised the St. Lawrence river, strolled in the Port area and visited an amazing archaeological museum (not to mention attending several gymnastics competetion sessions!).

Attending Montreal Gymnastics Worlds 2017

Montreal’s Old City

FIGURE SKATING WEEKEND IN LAKE PLACID, NEW YORK

In November, our touring of Olympic towns continued in Adirondak mountains with a weekend at Skate America competition in Lake Placid, New York.  We enjoyed the three days of figure skating competition at the famous Herb Brooks Ice Arena and touring of 1980 Lake Placid Olympics sites.

From the top of Olympic ski jump complex, Lake Placid

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I love it when Boston Ballet has two rotating productions for us to enjoy (and appreciate versatility of the dancers!)  This spring we are treated to the Parts In Suite mixed program of contemporary choreography and the full-length classic of Romeo & Juliet (music by Sergei Prokofiev, choreography by John Cranko); both ballets are running in Boston Opera House through the weekend of April 7.

If you have a chance, I recommend seeing them both and here is why.

Boston Ballet in Jorma Elo‘s Bach Cello Suites (Part of Parts In Suite Program); photo by Rosalie O’Connor; courtesy of Boston Ballet

Parts In Suite  program is composed of 3 works by some of the world’s leading contemporary choreographers: Bach Cello Suites by Boston Ballet’s resident choreographer Jorma Elo, In Creases by New York City Ballet’s Resident Choreographer Justin Peck and Pas/Parts 2016 by William Forsythe (in his second year of the 5-year contract with the company). If you have ballet loving friends in Europe, you will be able to brag about watching a Forsythe’s production live –  he has recently come back to the U.S. after a 30+year career with prominent ballet companies in Germany.

Interpreting contemporary abstract ballet is no easy task and I will leave it for you to experience them in the moment.  And with live musical accompaniment onstage – by cellist Sergey Antonov in Bach Cello Suites and by two pianists performing Philip Glass’ Four Movements for Two Pianos in The Creases- this is exactly how the program is meant to be experienced.

I did ask Boston Ballet’s Artistic Director Mikko Nissinen about his choice of the order in which the three ballets are presented:

“There is progression over three hundred years of music, – Nissinen said,- from Bach to Phillip Glass (In Creases) to the electronic score (in Forsythe’s). Going with period order gives audience a nice way to take one piece after another and enjoy it, and go further….”

Boston Ballet in Justin Peck‘s In Creases (Part of Parts In Suite Program); photo by Rosalie O’Connor; courtesy of Boston Ballet

Forsythe has made significant changes to his Pas/Parts 2016 for this production.  In his interview to Medium, Nissinen went on to say that “Part of the reason we’re able to attract the best dancers in the world is because they know they will be dancing for Forsythe. It’s so demanding and hard, and his dances push them to the edge.”

Hannah Bettes, Patrick Yocum, and Roddy Doble in William Forsythe’s Pas/Parts 2018; photo by Rosalie O’Connor; courtesy of Boston Ballet

“There is not too much going on in terms of sets, just three brilliant takes on the art form of choreography,”- Nissinen told me during the grand rehearsal on the opening night of the Pas/Parts 2016 program on March 9.  To the contrary, there is SO much going on with the sets and costumes of Romeo & Juliet that Nissinen purchased from Joffrey Ballet in time for this run.   The costumes were recreated from the designs by Jurgen Rose for the original Cranko’s production at the Stuttgart Ballet in 1962.  And they do a great job of transforming us to Verona of the 16^th century (I googled it and the scholars are still arguing over the exact timing).

Boston Ballet in John Cranko’s Romeo & Juliet; photo by Liza Voll; courtesy of Boston Ballet

I went to see Romeo & Juliet (based of course on Shakespeare’s eternal classic) with my 18-year old son.  Growing up, my son had a special place in his heart for Shakespeare and especially, the Romeo & Juliet.  (We also saw Boston Ballet’s 2011 production together).  Not coming from the world of dance, my son was nevertheless completely taken by the music and the acting (and he did focus my attention on several particularly intricate dance movements).

Mom and son report from the Boston Opera House.

In fact, having to combine authentic acting with technically complex dancing is a special challenge for the dancers in this arguably best representation of classical ballet.  Principal dancer Lasha Khozashvili even admitted in an interview to having to stop and control himself from going too far with the music.

During the opening night on March 15 we were lucky to experience the airy lightness and dramatic authenticity of the perfectly cast Misa Kuranaga (Juliet).

Paulo Arrais and Misa Kuranaga in John Cranko’s Romeo & Juliet; photo by Liza Voll; courtesy of Boston Ballet

I would also love to come back and see Lasha Khozashvili as Romeo. Check the website for updated casting for your date.  There is so much talent at Boston Ballet, it makes you want to watch performances with different dancers in the leading roles.

When I was watching Parts In Suite I was admiring the extreme ability of the human body and brilliantly choreographed formations of dancers.  It was a superb experience I enjoyed every moment of.  You don’t however watch and admire Romeo & Juliet in the same way. You live it, are taken by it, and transformed in time and place (or else, the production has failed you).  When the timeless familiar story ended, to my surprise, I had tears in my eyes.  I have never responded this way (yet) to a contemporary program.  Have you?

Fun fact: guest conductor Gavriel Heine (for March 15–25 performances) is the resident quest conductor at Mariinsky Theater of St. Petersburg and is the first American citizen to have graduated from the Moscow Conservatory.

Remaining performances of Romeo & Juliet, Boston Opera House

Romeo & Juliet performance length is approximately two hours and 45 minutes including two intermissions.

Friday, April 6, 2018 at 7:30 pm

Saturday, April 7, 2018 at 1:30 pm

Sunday, April 8, 2018 at 1:30 pm

Remaining performance of Parts In Suite, Boston Opera House

Saturday, Apr 7 at 7:30 pm* (post-show talk with artists)

Tickets for each performance start at $35. For more information, visit bostonballet.org or call 617.695.6955.

As always, we thank Boston Ballet for inviting us to see and report on their programs.

We are linking up with other #CulturedKids ideas around the world via The Pigeon Pair and Me Blog and with exciting travel destinations via #WeeklyPostcard blog link up at Travel Notes & Beyond Blog– check them out for your own trip ideas!!

Whether you are an applicant or a parent of a high-schooler, chances are – college application process is something you both may want to forget soon.  College road trips on the other hand could leave a lot of positive family memories. Although this concept was foreign to me in the beginning of the process, I am now a big proponent of a well-planned college road trip that includes colleges big and small, state and private, set in in a city or a country-side, a trip that also leaves room for some sights along the way- all together as a family!

Touring Syracuse University

When I was planning our trips, discussing the stops on a friend’s family college trip was a great starting point in planning our own.  So here I am sharing our itineraries touring colleges in the American Northeast to get you started on planning your own.

Looping on a week-long tour would have saved us 20 hours of driving time!

A Week or a Weekend?

Many American families opt for a week of college touring over a summer or spring break.  We could not get away for the entire week, so we went on three separate weekend tours.  As you can see from my map above, going for a week in a “logical” circle without back-tracking would save up to 20 hours of our driving time! On the other hand, going on separate weekends allows to keep things in a better perspective as you have some time in-between the tours to process (and adjust) your experiences and expectations.

Starting in Boston we did not include Boston area colleges on our road trips (we did them separately on other weekends).   If you are starting your trip outside of Boston, it will probably be on your tour.  There are a variety of colleges here and as many historic and cultural attractions.  (and some colleges, like Harvard University is worth a visit regardless of whether you are applying there or not).

Extended Weekend 1 (4 nights). Thursday-Monday.

Boston-Syracuse, NY-Bethlehem, PA

 Stop 1: Syracuse (3 nights).

We drove to Syracuse from Boston on an April pre-spring break Thursday of my son’s junior year. We had tours planned for Friday, Saturday and Monday with Saturday afternoon and Sunday left for sight-seeing and travelling between stops.  This was quite an enjoyable trip!

(The junior or senior Days are often planned by colleges on Friday and Saturday and you get more out of them than just regular tour and information session)

We made Syracuse, New York our base for the first 3 nights of touring and stayed at Syracuse Homewood Suites, (separate bedroom and kitchenette).

On Friday we drove from Syracuse for an hour to Rochester, NY and spent the day touring Rochester University in the morning and then Rochester Institute of Technology in the afternoon.

University of Rochester, NY

It is intense but not impossible to have 2 tours in one day, as tours start early.  We were at Rochester University from 8am-1pm and then at RIT from 2-5 and still had time for nice dinner on lively Park Avenue in Rochester.  Set among the Victorian houses, it is made up of nice restaurants and cute shops. (It is also home to Edward E. Boynton House, a prairie-style home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.)

Post-touring dinner on lovely Park Avenue in Rochester, NY

On Saturday we explored Syracuse University.  We were done by 2pm with just enough time left to visit a quaint town of Skaneateles in the Finger Lakes region. We tasted wines at the Anyela’s Vineyards, walked the Main street and just sat reflecting quietly by the lake.

Wine tasting in Finger Lakes after a day of college touring

*Other nearby college towns to consider: Ithaca, New York (Ithaca College, Cornell University)

There are no tours offered on Sundays and we used the day for a leisurely (3-hour) drive to our next destination in Pennsylvania and explore some sights.

Stop 2: Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania (1 night).

Our next overnight destination was in the old steel town of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. We explored the remains of the 18^th century Moravian settlement and Moravian Book Shop – the oldest book shop in America dating to 1745 (for official walking tours, check out historic Bethlehem website).

Oldest Book Store in the U.S. Bethlehem, PA

We woke up early on Monday morning ready for a very busy day of exploring Lehigh University in Bethlehem and the Lafayette College in nearby Easton.  We drove back home to Boston (4.5hours) in the evening.

Lafayette College, Easton, PA

*On your way from Lehigh Valley back to Boston, you could of course stop to tour colleges in New York City or Connecticut.  We have toured New York University, Yale and University of Connecticut on separate weekend trips.

Weekend Tour 2:

Boston-Pennsylvania

 As I already noted, it would take less driving time overall if we had combined this tour with our first tour of upstate New York and Eastern Pennsylvania and avoided “backtracking”.  The advantage of having two separate tours was that we have done the second tour a year later, in the spring of a senior year, when both the applicant and colleges have made some decisions.  Post-acceptance tours are trickier to plan as there are fewer “accepted student days” than regular touring days on the office of admissions calendar.  (Note that if you are not able to do a formal “accepted student tour”, they will still sign you up on a perspective student tour or you could just tour around on your own to get the “feel” for the school.)

Stop 1. State College, Pennsylvania (1 night)

Penn State

We drove to a student town of State College on a certain evening in April to visit an “Accepted Student Day” at Pennsylvania State University the following morning.  We enjoyed the stately academic buildings and cute main street just off campus.  Being on a tight schedule, we could not endure the long lines at the famous largest on-campus University creamery in U.S. where President Clinton was allowed an anecdotal exception to mix the ice-cream flavors in one cup!

A two-hour drive in the afternoon got us to the city of Pittsburgh to tour Carnegie Mellon University and University of Pittsburgh.

*If you have time (and eager family members) consider exploring Pennsylvania attractions of Hershey World, historical Philadelphia and Longwood Gardens.

Stop 3: Pittsburgh (1 night)

We spent a couple of hours exploring Carnegie Mellon on our own late in the afternoon (picked into the academic building, the library and performance arts center and observed the students building the tents for the annual carnival.  We stayed in Wyndham Pittsburgh University Center (adjacent to the University) which allowed us some extra (and very needed) sleeping-in time in the morning before we toured compactly-sized Pittsburgh University.  We saw some familiar faces of other prospective students we have met on the Penn State tour the day before!

Impressive Cathedral of Learning at the University of Pittsburgh

We finished the touring day by checking out Pittsburgh’s landmark Point State Park where the rivers Allegheny and Monongahela meet to form the Ohio river.  An impressive fountain in this park is one of the largest in the United States!  Another fun nearby attraction is a funicular that takes you up and down Mount Washington.  You can see the cars going up and down as you stroll along the river.

Point State Park in Pittsburgh

*If small liberal arts colleges (and U.S. history!) are on your agenda, colonial Gettysburg is an hour drive from Pittsburg. From Pittsburg, you could also choose to continue to Washington, DC for some capital sightseeing (as you explore American University, Georgetown and George Washington Universities) or even further to Virginia for smaller William and Mary University and other area schools. 

There are so many exciting options which I am hoping to explore with my younger child when the time comes!

Have fun on your college road trips and share some college tripping memories in the comments! 

TIPS ON PLANNING YOUR COLLEGE TRIP ITINERARY

*  If a driving time is more than 2 hours, plan to arrive the night before your tour.

*  It might be possible to fit a tour of two colleges in one day, especially if you are in the early exploratory stage and the colleges are very close to each other. It gets a bit intense and there will be no sight-seeing on a day like this, but it works!

* Tours are not offered on Sundays so you can use it as a driving (or sightseeing day) on your road trip, or to explore on your own.

* Campus Days offer extended programming with specific majors and colleges sessions, lunch and other ways to explore in addition to traditional campus tour and information sessions.

* If you are touring in the summer, there are will be few students around and you might not get a real campus feel. Fall and spring touring is better for that reason as well as weather-wise.

* If you plan to revisit (or visit) some colleges once the acceptance letters come in, keep in mind, take a note of “Accepted Sudents” days which you may want to plan your tour around.

* Even if your kid is set on a certain type of school (e.g. large University in a country-setting), invite them to explore a different style school (e.g. smaller liberal arts school) in the area where you are visiting – to expose them to more choices and to keep things in perspective.

Spring blossom in the Lehigh Valley during our mid-April visit

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For me, attending Boston Ballet’s performances is not only about admiring one of the leading and oldest American ballet companies, but also about spending time with my loved ones.  I carefully “plan” my Boston Ballet season by choosing which family member I will invite on which ballet outing with me.  I shared Romeo & Juliet with my son in March (on his college spring break) and tried to de-code Wayne McGregor’s Obsidian Tear with my husband early in the season.

End of Boston Ballet’s season this year is busy with two alternating productions at the Opera House to claim our weekends and celebrate the company’s versatility.  Classic Balanchine opened last week (May 17- June 9, 2018) and Le Sylphide is on stage May 25th-June 10.  Which means (among many other things) that you could have several dates at the ballet with your favorite people.

Date Night One: Classic Balanchine (May 17- June 9, 2018)

I took my husband to see Classic Balanchine with me last week because I appreciate his view on modern choreography.  Not that you would need help interpreting the works of Balanchine – the most “classical” of all contemporary choreographers. The 3-ballet program highlighting Balanchine’s long and prolific career starts with a story ballet Prodigal Son (first performed in 1929, score by S. Prokofiev); followed by Stravinsky Violin Concerto (revised choreography from 1972) and concludes with the festive Chaconne (premiered in 1976, score by von Gluck).

Derek Dunn, Lia Cirio, and Boston Ballet in George Balanchine’s Prodigal Son © The George Balanchine Trust; photo by Liza Voll, courtesy of Boston Ballet

My husband’s favorite of the three programs was Prodigal Son. It was both seductive, and funny, and above all showed superb technical mastery and ahtleticism (with elements from circus and gymnastics) by principals Lia Cirio and Derek Dunn.

I was impressed that my date was able to pick on the “dissonances” (also referred to as “asymmetry” by the Globe dance critic) of the Stravinsky Violin Concerto’s cleverly intertwined into the contrasting lines of the choreography – most notably, the two famous pas de deux .

John Lam and Kathleen Breen Combes in George Balanchine’s Stravinsky Violin Concerto © The George Balanchine Trust; photo by Liza Voll, courtesy of Boston Ballet

My favorite piece of the evening was Chaconne – with its airy and lyrical movements and ballerinas’ flowing hair.  I also could not help but admire Misa Kuranaga’s glides across the stage.  Our other favorite performers of the night were Marina Baranova in Concerto and Lia Cirio and Derek Dunn in the Prodigal Son.

So Jung Lee, Dawn Atkins, and Abigail Merlis in Boston Ballet in George Balanchine’s Chaconne © The George Balanchine Trust; photo by Liza Voll; courtesy of Boston Ballet

Interesting Fact 1. Balanchine (1904–1983)  was born in Russia; among his many influences on American dance (he created more than 400 works!) is his critical role in the founding of Boston Ballet (in 1963).

Interesting Fact 2. A chaconne is a dance built on a short phrase in the bass that was often used by composers of the 17th and 18th centuries to end an opera in a festive mood.

Date Night Two: La Sylphide (May 25th-June 10)

Inspired by the successful (despite it being mid-week) evening with my husband at the Classic Balanchine, I took my 8-year old daughter to see La Sylphide with me. It is a two-part program of the works of the 19^th century Danish dancer and choreographer August  Bournonville– rarely performed divertissements and 2-act ballet La Sylphide in the second part.

My daughter found the folk dances of the divertissements quite entertaining: Jockey Dance (from Siberia to Moscow), Tarantella from Napoli, Flower Festival in Genzano- are inspired by Bournonville’s many travels and are based on refreshing (“free-footed”) technique.

Boston Ballet in August Bournonville’s Napoli; photo by Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy Boston Ballet

The title ballet La Sylphide, however, was a bit difficult for an 8-year old to follow.  It did not help that she got scared by the “shenanigans” of the village sorceress Madge.  (This is Madge, you might get scared too!)

sorceress MadgeMaria Alvarez in August Bournonville’s La Sylphyde. Photo Rosaline O’Connor. Courtesy of Boston Ballet.

Set in the Scottish Highlands, La Sylphide is one is of the world’s oldest ballets (first performed in 1836 by the Royal Danish Ballet, current production uses additional choreography by a former Royal Danish Ballet dancer Sorella Englund). It is a story of a young Scotsman being overtaken by the elusive sylph on his wedding day.  The Globe called it “one of the most psychologically complex” ballets.  With its endlessly dreamy movements and philosophical undertones, La Sylphide would be more appropriate to share with your ballet-appreciating girlfriend or perhaps your Mom.

Misa Kuranaga weightlessly leaping through the stage (in the leading role of the Sylph on the opening night) is the reason alone to see it.

Misa Kuranaga in August Bournonville’s La Sylphide; photo by Rosalie O’Connor; courtesy of Boston Ballet

Fun Fact 3: August Bournonville (1805–1879) was a dancer and choreographer who directed the Royal Danish Ballet for nearly 50 years and established the Danish style based on bravura dancing and expressive mime.

A date night at the Boston Ballet is always fun, even if my daughter was slightly under-age for this performance

All performances of Classic Balanchine and La Sylphide will take place at the Boston Opera House.

Remaining performances:

La Sylphide (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes long with two intermissions)

Saturday, May 26, 2018 at 1:30 pm

Friday, Jun 1, 2018 at 7:30 pm

Saturday, Jun 2, 2018 at 7:30 pm

Sunday, Jun 3, 2018 at 1:30 pm

Thursday, Jun 7, 2018 at 7:30 pm

Saturday, Jun 9, 2018 at 7:30 pm

Sunday, Jun 10, 2018 at 1:30 pm

Classic Balanchine (approximately 2 hours long with two intermissions)

Saturday, May 26 at 7:30 pm

Sunday, May 27 at 1:30 pm

Thursday, May 31 at 7:30 pm

Friday, June 8 at 7:30 pm

Saturday, June 9 at 1:30 pm

Tickets start at $35. For more information, visit bostonballet.org or call 617-695-6955.

As always, we thank Boston Ballet for inviting us to the performances to share our experience. All opinions are own own.