King Richard's Faire

 If you haven't yet been to King Richard's Faire, what are you waiting for? Only two weekends remain: this one and the next as the Faire will come to a close after October 23rd.

Hailed as New England's largest and longest running Renaissance Faire, King Richard's offers entertainment for all ages: rides, games, unique artistry, food and drink, and endless characters.

Upon entering the enchanted forests you will enter a whole new world. The faire welcomes those who enter to dress up and if you don't have a particular outfit to suit the Renaissance era, never fear for the faire boasts a Costume Shoppe with an extensive collection of pieces from the period. Once you have your wardrobe, you will be set to explore the forest more in-depth. Within its wooded surroundings, all things of beauty abound for there is a show at the faire for all. Acrobats, magicians, singers, dancers, stilt walkers, and even knights joust on horseback. The faire will take you back in time!

Food and drink offerings accommodate any palate including vegetarian, gluten and lactose free. In need of a drink? The faire has a wide selection for those in need of something to quench one's thirst: wine, beer, mead, specialty cocktails, and champagne! 

The faire offers special events/themed weekends on particular dates so be sure to check out the official website, listed below. On the weekend of The Red Balloon's visit, there was the HIGHLY anticipated Highland Hunks/Men in Kilts Competition. For those who have never before attended a Men in Kilts Competition, it is recommended that you place the date on your calendar for 2023. This year's competition brought so many onlookers that it was standing room only by the time the contest began! Keep in mind that none of those in the competition yet knew what was in store for them, nor did they know what the prize would be, but all gave their renaissance best in order to be crowned this year's Highland Hunk!

For all the details on special events/themed weekends or to purchase tickets: https://kingrichardsfaire.net/

Insider tip: The faire offers extensive free parking, just be sure to check which colored flag you are parked closest too in order to find your car on the way out!

Best of Cape Cod: Hyannis

The following was originally published as part of the Cape Cod series. It is now being featured as part of The Red Balloon's "Best of Cape Cod."

The first part in The Red Balloon's travel journey highlights Hyannis, perhaps most well known as being the home of the Kennedy compound at Hyannis Port.

While in Hyannis you may ask, "Where is there to begin?"

The Red Balloon offers some sage advice: It is always good to begin with breakfast. Hyannis has many breakfast options and one of the best is right at the very end of Main Street (the side closest to the Hyannis Transporation Center.) The eatery is named the Sunnyside Restaurant and sunny it surely is here! The restaurant offers a full breadth of brunch or breakfast options for even the most discerning of tastes. Pictured below the vegetarian omelet, hash browns, and toast. Serving sizes are abundant and prices here are reasonable.

Now that breakfast is done it is time to explore. While you are so very close to the Hyannis Transportation Center, may The Red Balloon suggest taking some time to explore the many transportation possibilities from this location including the Cape Cod Central Rail Train which offers dinner and wine trains. These trains offers scenic views but reservations are required. Should you find yourself looking for a Brunch Train, the Central Rail offers a Sunday Brunch on board.

                       

                                        

If ever in need of a place for some quiet relaxation and respite, the Michael K. Aselton Memorial Park is extremely close to Main Street and offers exceptional views of Hyannis Harbor.  

                                       

While at the Park, you may not believe your eyes but there are Duck Boats in Hyannis Harbor! You will surely see them as well as they bring tours along Main Street through both land and sea.

                                            

If the Duck Boat isn't your speed there are plenty of other options for traveling on the water at Hyannis Harbor including a Pirate ship.

                                       

Back on Main Street there is no shortage of artwork and this one below was captured inside a place where you may not have thought to look for artwork: inside the Ben and Jerry's on Main Street!

                                           

Stay tuned for more in The Red Balloon's Cape Cod series! 

The Red Balloon: Anniversary

Today marks an important day in history:

The Anniversary of The Red Balloon!

What began as an idea years ago has grown into a reality ~
               

                                                            

Here's to dreams taking flight!

Cape Cod Part II: Hyannis

This is the second part in The Red Balloon's Cape Cod Series.

Hyannis has so much to see and do, including art, rich cultural and historical experiences as well as culinary wonders and shopping excursions, making it an ideal locale to visit on your next Cape Cod adventure.

If traveling from Boston the Capeflyer offers trains Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from South Station. Hop on board and avoid sitting in traffic! Snacks and drinks are available on board and you can even bring your bike. Insider tip: If bringing your bike you will need to place it in the very last car where all of the bicycles are stored.

First stop on the trip, once you have arrived, be sure to check out the artist shanties, which are conveniently located walking distance from Main Street, at Hyannis Harbor. In addition, you will find more artists and their craftsmanship directly across the street. The shanties are a venue in which local painters, sculptors, and photographers can showcase their best art. Artists who work in a wide variety of mediums can all be found here. The Hyannis Harbor is also the spot for people watching and catching a boat out to the islands of Nantucket and/or Martha's Vineyard.

For history buffs, the Hyannis Kennedy Legacy Trail is a must. The legacy trail is self-guided so you can continue at whatever pace you need to. The trail will bring you to the "Church of the Kennedy's" which is St. Francis Xiaver, located one block from Main Street. Also on South Street, you will find the Armory where on the day of November 9, 1960, JFK gave his Presidential acceptance speech. You could find yourself walking literally in the footsteps of a former President! 

While on the Legacy Trail you will find that Hyannis is a place with a past. Right on Main Street is a statue and plaque in tribute to the Wampanoag Chieftain, Sachem Iyanough who befriended and aided the early settlers. Fun fact: Hyannis bears a derivative of his name (something to impress your friends with when you return from Cape Cod.) In the photo below, you will see the statue of Wampanoag Chieftain. Behind the statue lies Hyannis Village Green where events are happening nightly. Recently the Boston Pops performed and there was a live performance of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Insider tip: Be sure to arrive early for events to get the best spot. 

 Conveniently located on Main Street is the JFK Museum. Be sure to devote some time to explore all the museum to its fullest extent. Insider tip: The museum closes at 4 pm each day and does not open until noon on Sunday. Be mindful of this when arranging this stop within your travel itinerary.

Stop #10 on the Hyannis Legacy Trail is Veterans Beach which is a must-see. Best to visit the beach in the morning or late afternoon as the beach does tend to become crowded during the peak season.

Insider tip: If you are without a bike, take the free trolley from the Hyannis Transportation Center. Although Hyannis is extremely walkable, the trolley will stop at all of the hot spots including Veterans Beach!

If you find yourself looking to travel to the beach, Kalmus beach is conveniently located close to Veterans Beach and is much quieter. To arrive at Kalmus beach simply go past the Hyannis Yacht Club which is at the end of Veterans Beach.

Looking for a quick lunch spot? Look no further than Palio Pizza at 435 Main Street. For a more formal lunch or dinner, you can travel one block from Main Street to 72 North Street where the Portside Tavern is a family-owned restaurant offering a variety of foods including seafood caught daily.

No trip to Hyannis is complete without a trip to Ben and Jerry's at 352 Main Street. A great place to have a sweet treat after shopping and seeing the sights on Main Street.

For now it is time to say "Good Night Cape Cod" but this isn't good bye for The Red Balloon's Cape Cod series continues so stay tuned for the next locale complete with insider tips coming soon!

Happy Trails from Hyannis!

King Richard's Faire!

ESCAPE YOUR REALITY, COME TO KING RICHARD’S FAIRE –
THE NEW ENGLAND RENAISSANCE FAIRE IN CARVER, MASS. NOW IN FULL SWING

The Faire Runs Weekends and Monday Holidays From September 1 Through October 21, 2018

CARVER, Mass. (September 14, 2018) -- King Richard's Faire, New England's largest and longest-running Renaissance Faire, is now underway for its 37th season, running weekends from September 1 through October 21, 2018 including Monday holidays (Labor Day, Columbus Day). Tucked away on an 80-acre, wooded site just off Rt. 58 in Carver, Mass., King Richard's Faire is one of the region’s premiere fall events.

Guests are treated to a bevy of delights, from high-flying aerial artists to food fit for a King. The Faire is home to eight stages, a mud show, and a tournament field all packed with interactive entertainment, from musicians and magicians to actors and acrobats. All day, performers engage their audiences and guests stroll the “lanes” of Carvershire exploring all the event has to offer – there’s plenty to do at King Richard’s Faire, from cheering on daring knights jousting on horseback to shopping for handmade wares and games of skill.

This year, King Richard’s Faire welcomes a benevolent and beautiful new Queen Anne with King Richard XI to the royal cast, along with musical acts 3 Pints Shy, Music the Gathering, and Meraki Caravan alongside fan favorites The Washing Well Wenches, Great Cats of the World exotic cat show, the Sturdy Beggars Mud Show, The Torture Show, and world record-setting Jacques Ze Whipper. King Richard, Queen Anne and their royal court are up to some crazy antics in this season’s all new musical comedy “Torn Between Two Villans” featured twice daily on the King’s Stage. Brave knights, competing on horseback, hold jousting tournaments three times daily in challenges of bravery and daring feats of athleticism. New performer Kevin Armour of “Up In Arms” showcases his juggling prowess; Tom Frost performs as “Akordeon by Tomas” accordion show, and for the first four weekends only, Snorkle the Wonder Pig makes guests laugh and smile with his stunts, with the magicians of The Wonder Show delighting guests for the remaining four weekends.

For foodies, the royal kitchens offer oversized bakery delectables, giant turkey legs, bread boules of chowder and stew, seasonal beverages and of course champagne, wine, and brew. In addition to the world famous giant turkey legs, the royal kitchens prepare pulled pork mac and cheese, blooming onions and sweet cinnamon buns.

Special events and contests are free with paid admission, and are held each Saturday at 4 p.m. unless otherwise noted, and add extra excitement to fun-filled Faire days. Visit the website (kingrichardsfaire.net) for registration guidelines and restrictions.

2018 Special Event Schedule:

·         9/1: Carver Resident Day - free admission for Carver residents with proper ID

·         9/2: Salute to Safety - free admission to military persons active/retired/veteran as well as police, fire and EMS personnel with proper ID

·         9/3: Labor Day - Open

·         9/8: Cleavage Contest (18+)

·         9/15: Romance is in the Faire - Vow Renewal Ceremony

·         9/22 & 9/23: Game of Thrones Costume and Trivia contest; costume contest at 2:30 p.m. and trivia contest at 4:00 p.m. (18+)

·         9/29 & 9/30:  Harry Potter Costume and Trivia contest; costume contest at 2:30 p.m.; trivia contest at 4:00 p.m. (12+)

·         10/6: Clash of the Tartans: Highland Hunks, Men in Kilts contest (18+)

·         10/8: Columbus Day - Open

·         10/13: Wee Ones’ Costume Parade (11+)

·         10/20: Fantasy Finale - Adult Costume/cosplay/time travelers Contest

·         10/21: Final Drum Jam – 6 p.m. outside the front gate

Faire hours are 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday holidays. Tickets are $32 adults (12+), $16 children ages 4-11, and children under 4 are free. Parking is free.

Discounts given to groups of 25 adults or more and private parties can be accommodated (birthdays, vow renewal ceremonies, weddings). Groups may make reservations by emailing info@kingrichardsfaire.net.

The Faire is located at 235 Main Street (Rt. 58) in Carver, Mass. 02330, phone is 508-866-5391, email info@kingrichardsfaire.net. Visit King Richard’s Faire on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/TheKingRichardsFaire) and on Twitter and Instagram @KRFaire

Hip Hop Nutcracker

You have probably heard of the classic tale of the Nutcracker. Well the Hip Hop Nutcracker, coming this December is a contemporary re-imagining of the Tchaikovsky's classic tale. A cast of all-star dancers together with a DJ and violinist come together to create a new take of the beloved story of the Nutcracker.

The show will be in Boston from December 21 through the 23rd. For more information visit:
http://www.bochcenter.org/buy/show-listing/hip-hop-nutcracker

EzFoodFest

This year's EzFoodFest invaded the Lawn on D bringing with it the best from all over Boston and the 'burbs. Whether you order food for meetings, sales, or special events, EzCater has you covered. The event showcased a wide variety of cuisines including:

Andres Cafe
Anna's Taqueria
Avellino’s Restaurant
Beta Burger
boloco
Boston Catering & Events
EvyTea
Hearth Pizzeria
Kitchen Millie
Lanta Asian Cuisine
P.F. Chang's
Phinix Mediterranean
Sa Pa Vietnamese Kitchen
Spinelli’s Catering
Trio Cafe

In addition to great tastes, the event also featured a signature cocktail shown below.

Cheers to Fall in Boston!

TechJam 2017

Local Speakers, Bands, Beer & Food Trucks to Rock Boston TechJam 2017

Speakers, Music, Food Trucks, Libations and Games Provide Entertainment as Local Tech Community Takes Over City Hall Plaza at 5^th Annual Outdoor Innovation Event

 Boston – June 6, 2017 – Boston TechJam – a celebration of the technology ecosystem and culture of New England- and Boston-area entrepreneurs, startups, established tech companies, venture capitalists, non-profit organizations and higher learning institutions – has released its 2017 content lineup!

Over 7,000 Boston TechJam attendees will gather at City Hall Plaza on Thursday, June 15 from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m.to join the part block party, part tech showcase. Although speakers were missing from last year’s event, Boston TechJam 2017 is bringing an exciting lineup that will feature robots, fitness and audio tech.

“Attendees have been asking for more opportunities to learn from the wealth of experience and knowledge Boston has to offer, so we’re thrilled to bring speakers back to Boston TechJam this year,” said TechJam co-founder Mark Lorion, president and GM of Apperian. “These high-caliber guests will appeal to everyone – from students just starting out to long-time, seasoned executives.”

In addition to the newly added speaker lineup, two of the area’s top bands will perform, Jack’s Abby will be pouring beer and food trucks will be lining up, creating a fun environment for networking, discovery of local innovation and idea sharing to accelerate the region’s technology ecosystem and culture. There will even be a robot at the event that may deliver you chocolates and a surprise speaker or two.   

“Boston TechJam, now in its fifth year, is a networking event unlike any other: a giant block party with innovative companies showing off their latest inventions,” said Ben Maitland-Lewis, CEO of PrettyInstant.com and Founding Music & Entertainment Director of Boston TechJam. “The incredibly fun and unique-to-the-area atmosphere really brings the community together to celebrate all that we as a city are contributing to the world.”

This year’s entertainment line-up includes:

• Speakers – Throughout the event, speakers will be discussing Boston’s audio tech scene, how MA is shaping the fitness industry, and how robots are making the world a better place. 
• Live Music – Award-winning bands will play funk, soul, R&B, pop, and reggae to keep the party grooving. Bands this year include East Coast Soul, joining Boston TechJam for their second year, andSpiritual Rez, performing their only live show in Boston before continuing on tour.
• Games and Exhibits from over 100 Local Companies – While the bands are rocking, entrepreneurs, startups, established tech companies, venture capitalists, non-profit groups and students will be checking out local innovations and enjoying fun, festival-style activities and games. The exhibiting companies will be organized as “Innovation Villages” to inspire community and networking within the event.
• Food and Libations – Attendees can stay fueled at the festival by enjoying beer from Jack’s Abby and munching on eats from a variety of Boston-favorite food trucks, including: Chubby Chickpea, Moyzilla, Rhythm & Wraps, Roxy's Grilled Cheese, Sabroso Taqueria, Zo on the Go, Vice Cream, The Sausage Guy, Revelry and Collettey's Cookies.

Register for the event now at www.bostontechjam.org.

The event would not be possible without the thought leadership and financial support of underwriting sponsors Autodesk, Cengage, Chewy, Cybereason, EBSCO, Kronos Incorporated, Monster, Optum, PTC and Rapid7.

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About Boston TechJam

Boston TechJam is a showcase and accelerator for new ideas and world-class innovations coming out of the Boston region. The event brings together early stage companies, entrepreneurs, students, established enterprises, venture capitalists and artists to celebrate the region's technology, entrepreneurship and culture. Equal parts idea exchange and celebration, Boston TechJam is an unconventional meeting ground for local innovators, visionaries and up-and-comers. The 18+ event will take place June 15, 2017 on Boston City Hall Plaza.

Boston TechJam is supported by Autodesk, Cengage, Chewy, Cybereason, EBSCO, Kronos Incorporated, Monster, Optum, PTC and Rapid7. Founding collaborators include Apperian, MassTLC, East Coast Catalyst, Pretty Instant, Influence Central and SHIFT Communications, additional collaborators include BostInno, Boston New Tech, CIC, General Assembly, Launch Academy, MassChallenge, MassDiGi, MassTLC Education Foundation, MITX, Resilient Coders, SheGeeksOut, TechGen, Venture Café, WBUR and the City of Boston.

 Tech

Taste of Back Bay 2017

The Taste of Back Bay was a delight for the eyes, ears, and palates. The Skywalk Observatory at the Prudential Center was infused with savory delights and sweet sounds. An array of restaurants from Back Bay featured dishes that dazzled. 80 Thoreau crafted a smoked swordfish. Buttermilk and Bourbon provided deviled egg toast with Benton's country ham and hot pepper salad. Stephanie's on Newbury created a shrimp and scallop cevich. Eataly featured a crostini with house made mozzarello and pesto. If that were not enough, Georgetown Cupcake and Sweet were on hand providing decadent desserts.

Some of the photo highlights from the event are below.

                                       

Proceeds from the Taste of Back Bay went to support the charitable organization, Food for Free.

Happy Tasting Boston!

Taste of Downtown Boston

The inaugural Taste of Downtown Boston took place on the Avenue de Lafayette. The event featured live entertainment including musicians and local artists. Live cooking demonstrations took place throughout the day. The street was filled with restaurants of the downtown neighborhood providing delectable treats.

Participating restaurants included:

Artisan Bistro,
Avenue One at Hyatt Regency,
Back Deck,
Boston Chops,
Central Bistro,
David’s Tea,
Fajitas & ‘Ritas,
Gordon’s Fine Wine & Liquors,
JM Curley,
Kingston Grille & Bar,
Legal Crossing,
Marliave, 
Mast,
The Merchant, 
Oceanaire,
Papagayo,
Roche Bros.,
Ruth’s Chris Steak House,
SA PA,
Serafina,
Sip Wine Bar and Kitchen, and
Yvonne’s

Photos from the event can be seen below:

Here's to Downtown Crossing!

Outside the Box

Outside the Box Festival was held on Boston Common and brought many amazing acts right to the center of the city.

The 5 day festival featured a curated line-up of musicians, poets, and artists.
New this year, the festival featured an innovation section.

Daughtry, Smashmouth, Ruby Rose Fox, and many, many other artists brought an array of culture, art, and music into beautiful Boston Common. Check out the photos for yourself:

Keep on thinking "Outside the Box" Boston!

TechJam 2016

TechJam 2016 took place on City Hall Plaza in Boston. It was an evening of all things tech including the latest in 3D printing. Models from the 3D printer were presented and had been painted.

Experian Data was on hand to pose the question, "What do you use data to do?" Individual responses were placed onto a clothesline. People were encouraged to tweet their response as well.

There was no shortage of fun as a giant game of Operation persuaded participants to try their hand at something that perhaps they had not played in well...at least a decade!

The life size Operation game is below:

Speaking of giant, City Hall Plaza is now outfitted with large hammocks for anyone's relaxation:

Refreshments abounded at TechJam including these creative cookies which I guess mean that The Red Balloon has officially been "hired!"

Have a safe and happy 4th of July!

21st Annual Taste of Back Bay

The exquisite 21st Annual Taste of Back Bay took place on May 19th at the Skywalk in Boston's Prudential Center.

The 360 degree view of Boston from the Skywalk was breathtaking.


The Top of the Hub provided a dish of halibut which was divine.

The French brasserie La Voile provided a beautiful arrangement of delectable treats to taste without flying to Paris.


Not only was the food fantastic to taste, the presentation was second to none.

Not to be missed, Georgetown Cupcake was on hand with some sweet desserts.


It was an incredible night in support of a worthy cause, Food for Free, which rescues fresh food that might otherwise go to waste and provides it to those in need.

Until next time, The Red Balloon is off to great places!

Taste of the South End: Photo Preview

Here are a sampling of photos The Red Balloon recently took at this year's amazing Taste of the South End:

Stay tuned for all of the details from the 2016 Taste of the South End Boston!

Hyatt Regency: Inside Look

The Hyatt Regency Cambridge at 575 Memorial Avenue offers an extensive array of spaces for hosting events. They've recently remodeled and The Red Balloon takes you on an inside look of the hotel.

The Riverside Pavilion offers a white tent with French windows. The space offers both modern and classic charm to create an elegant and timeless space. See for yourself how beautiful it is:

Conveniently located along the Charles River, the Riverside Pavilion offers an impressive space for you and your guests as well as a selection of food and drink that is in a category of its own.

For those who are looking for a space with a view of high above the city, the Hyatt offers a variety of options including the 14th floor's Empress Ballroom. Here is a view from the ballroom:

As if that's not enough, on the 16th floor, you will find the Charles View Ballroom, which offers 180 degree panoramic views of Boston. Fun fact: that space used to belong to Boston's only restaurant that spun (yes it is true.) The restaurant was named the Spinnaker. The restaurant may not be there anymore but the view remains the same. See below why they call it the Charles "View" Ballroom:

And the food is nothing short of amazing.

The Hyatt Regency Cambridge transforms spaces into places. The Hyatt has everything covered for all of your event needs to make your special occasion a lasting memory.

Happy Hosting!