The heritage trails in Massachusetts paint vivid pictures of days past. Yet they are also a great way to explore parts of the state you may not otherwise think to visit.
Surprising every step of the way, and perhaps the most famous heritage trail in the state, is the Freedom Trail. Beginning on Boston Common, where hordes of red-clad British troops once trained, the red-brick Freedom Trail connects 16 Boston landmarks. The Black Heritage Trail is also quite popular, as it explores the history of Boston's 19th-century African-American community. The Salem Heritage Trail is a North Shore favorite: it transports you back to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 and the days of sea captains, pirates and noted novelist Nathaniel Hawthorne.
The Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor in Central Massachusetts includes the Industrial Revolution Heritage Trail...The African-American Heritage Trail chronicles the experiences of African-Americans on Martha's Vineyard...The Irish Heritage Trail is a self-guided walking tour through Boston's downtown, North End, Beacon Hill and Back Bay.

Bread & Roses Festival
September 6, 2010Celebrating Lawrence's diversity and its labor history named for the "Bread and Roses" textile strike of 1912. Numerous family events.
Spencer Fair
September 3, 2010Through September 6. Classic country fair with agricultural shows, entertainment, midway and more.
Tanglewood Jazz Festival
September 4, 2010Through September 5. Talented, well-known jazz artists perform on the beautiful grounds of Tanglewood.
Free Fun Fridays
September 3, 2010Through September 4. The Free Fun Fridays program invites everyone to visit a designated museum or attraction for free over Labor Day Weekend (Friday & Saturday)