Free events in Beverly, MA

Celebrate the bond between people and their pups at Bark in the Park, a family-friendly gathering for dog lovers and owners. Enjoy a full day of activities that highlight four-legged friends, including dog races, a costume contest, and a canine talent show. Explore booths from local pet-focused vendors and grab refreshments from food trucks throughout the day. Whether entering a competition or simply taking in the festivities, there is plenty to enjoy. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.

Walk through the coastal castle that was once the home of leading 20th century inventor John Hays Hammond, Jr., now Hammond Castle Museum, established to give the Gloucester community access to ancient architecture. Gloucester residents receive complimentary self-guided visits on Tuesdays during the standard touring season, which continues into early November, and also during Deck the Halls, the museum-wide holiday exhibit. Proof of Gloucester residency is required for each reservation at check-in. Advance registration is suggested but not required, and in-person registration is available in the Museum Shop.

Learn how accessory dwelling units can fit into your Massachusetts property plans at a free, public workshop focused on planning, construction, financing, and day-to-day management. Designed for both new homeowners and experienced property owners, the session clarifies how ADUs are defined under state law and outlines the permitting landscape, key building codes, and practical design choices. It also reviews typical project costs and financing pathways, shares current rental insights for the Greater Boston area, and highlights dependable sources to stay updated on local rule changes and public policy. Examples include basement or attic conversions, detached structures, and updates to existing in-law spaces. The program is informational only and involves no sales pitch or obligation. Although held in Medford, the content is relevant beyond the city. Presented by Jennifer M. Keenan, Realtor with 4Squares Residential Group at Keller Williams Realty Boston Northwest, MA Real Estate Sales License 009513152 and Keller Williams Realty Brokerage License 7995, and Kevin Greeley, Senior Loan Officer with Leader Bank, NMLS 449250 and NMLS MLO 38403.

Enjoy a free comedy open mic at the Jungle that celebrates stand-up and plenty of laughs. Audiences can watch both emerging and experienced comics try out fresh material. Performers will find a show-and-go sign-up, four minute sets with the option to extend to five minutes with a food purchase, and a cap of 35 spots on the list.

The Davis Sq Farmers Market is back. For the most current vendor list and a market map, check the market website.

Music Bingo brings a lively twist to the classic game at CanalSide Food + Drink at CambridgeSide. There is no cost to participate, and prizes are awarded in each round. Expect two to three brisk music rounds that keep the energy high from start to finish. Instead of numbers and letters, each card features song titles and artists. Pick up a unique card, listen as the DJ cues up familiar tracks, and mark any matches you hear. Earn five in a row vertically, horizontally, or diagonally to call bingo and win. The format suits casual listeners, competitive players, and groups of friends. No music expertise is needed, just listen, enjoy the hits, and have fun with friendly competition and prizes.

Celebrate Food Security Awareness Day at the farmers market, featuring an expanded lineup of more than 30 local vendors. Explore offerings from farms, small batch food producers, artisans, and community organizations. Shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, bread, pasta, hummus, coffee, olive oil, and other pantry staples, along with specialty items and ready to eat dishes. Enjoy live music, cooking demonstrations, and activities for kids. SNAP customers can receive a $15 match, and three participating farmers accept HIP benefits.

Marking 20 years, the Medford Farmers Market brings a weekly gathering to the Condon Shell with local vendors, musical entertainment, and community-focused activities. The market shares who is scheduled each week on its events page.

Gulu-Gulu Café & Bar hosts an open mic that turns the room into a friendly home for live music and creative surprises. Performers and listeners of all ages are welcome, and there is no cover to attend. The focus is music only, not a comedy open mic.

The Farmer's Market is returning to the front lawn on Fridays. Farmers accept SNAP EBT/food stamps, debit, credit, and cash, and they also welcome GWL (Groundwork Lawrence) market coupons, WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), and senior farmers market coupons. Interested vendors can contact Groundwork Lawrence for participation details.

Take part in Invasive Species Volunteer Days, a hands-on effort to care for the Town Forest. Volunteers will team up to remove buckthorn and other invasive plants so native vegetation and wildlife can continue to thrive in this habitat. It is a chance to connect with others while doing meaningful work outside and to help protect this natural area.

Browse a fall craft fair featuring more than fifty crafters and vendors. Admission is free.

Salem Main Streets presents a playful pet parade celebrating costumed companions. Attendance is free for those enjoying the costumes, and there is a suggested donation of $5 for Salem residents or $10 for out-of-towners to enter a pet. Pets of any species are welcome as long as they are well behaved and comfortable in a busy environment where many dogs are likely to be present. Advance registration is preferred, and on-site signups will be available on Derby Wharf. Cash is preferred for entry, and Venmo may be an option. The parade will begin after registration. Beware of scam posts offering vending spots or tickets; official information will come from Kylie or Elise. Local businesses help make this event possible, and appreciation for sponsors and supporters is encouraged.

At James P. Cronin Park in Cambridge, a grassroots mutual aid effort comes together to prepare food and share it with the community. Volunteers and donations are welcome to help grow this support network and assist neighbors. The schedule features a hands-on prep period followed by distribution. Stickers are available in person for anyone who would like to help post them around the Harvard and Central Square area.