On the Town in Plymouth MA
Experiencing Life in Plymouth
Jack Foley
To define Plymouth as the place where the Pilgrims settled and celebrated the first Thanksgiving is to miss a huge and vital aspect of the town culture that its residents have known for years. Plymouth is home to a vibrant and growing community with many exciting things to do, opportunities for growing businesses, and beautiful places to live.
Plymouth supports several robust retail areas including the historic Main Street aswell as Colony Place and other retail areas throughout town, which supply everything from brand name products to gifts created by local artisans. Along with great shopping, a number of restaurants offer a wide variety of dining options, whether you are looking for a waterfront seafood restaurant or a quiet bistro.
Community events help bring local people together with visitors and create excitement and vibrancy. Early in the summer, the town of Plymouth celebrates July 4th in a spectacular way with their annual Independence Day Parade. This year’s theme is It’s a
Small World.
“It is a small world,” comments Ken Tavares, volunteer and coordinator of the July 4th parade for 30 years. “Our sister city is Shichigahama, Japan, which was one of the cities devastated by the earthquake and tsunami. Our community immediately responded with generosity to help with relief efforts.” The town will honor its friends near and far at the parade on July 4th at 9:30 a.m. The parade route begins at Hedge Road in North Plymouth and continues down Court Street through downtown Plymouth onto Main Street Extension and onto Water Street. Afterwards, a concert will feature patriotic favorites.
Another signature event is the Downtown Plymouth Waterfront Festival, a yearly celebration that brings the community together for summertime fun. The highlights of the festival include a Festival Carnival, a Plymouth Idol competition, a large art & crafts fair, and the Ducky Dash. This festival takes place on August 27.
Summer is also when town residents and area chefs peruse the offerings at the Plymouth Farmers’ Market. The market offers an abundance of fresh, local produce grown by regional family farmers. Seasonal fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, eggs, grass fed meats, cut flowers, and plants are all available at this community market that encourages everyone to learn about the value of buying and eating locally grown food. The weekly farmers’ market is a community event held at Stephens Field on Thursdays and at the 1820 Court House Green on Saturdays.
Upcoming EventsJuly 9: Plymouth Maritime Day Blessing of the Fleet
Parade of Boats, Busch Racing Boat, Toot Toot Mini Tug Boat, Live Music & Food.
12noon – 3:00 p.m.
On the Waterfront, Plymouth, 508-830-7174,
www.sailplymouthma.com
July 9: 4th Annual Plymouth Harbor Folk Festival
Folk music, hand crafters, Plymouth Rotary food tent, Plymouth Farmers Market and local non-profits.
On the Waterfront, Plymouth, 508-747-7727,
www.project-arts.com
July 23: Plymouth Independent
Music Festival
An all-day free music
festival featuring a wide range of styles. Two stages. The main stage to feature full band. Acoustic stage to feature solo artists and small acoustic groups.
1:00 p.m.
On the Waterfront, Plymouth,
www.brewsterproductions.com/festival
These exciting events are only the tip of the iceberg. The Plymouth community offers many opportunities to enjoy the arts, play sports, get a great education, shop, dine, and just have a great time! Visit www.visit-plymouth.com and www.plymouth-ma.gov for more information and events.
Great Fall Events
Oct 1: Barktober-Fest
A family-friendly, pet-friendly event featuring games and prizes, contests, food for dogs and owners, rabies clinic, live entertainment as well as, vendors featuring dog related items and services. Nelson Park on the Waterfront, Plymouth, 508-830-1620,
www.plymouthbarktoberfest.com
Nov 18-20: America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Celebration
An annual event celebrating the original Thanksgiving. The three-day long event includes a Parade, the New England Food Festival, A Crafter’s Pavilion, kids activity tent, concerts, and turkey dinners at Plimoth Plantation. Various locations around
Plymouth. 508-746-1818. For complete event details www.usathanksgiving.com
VISITOR'S GUIDE
Class Art And Antiques
62 Court Street, Plymouth
508-746-4106
www.classartandantiques.com
Discover some of the South Shore’s finest artwork by the areas top artists, and possibly capture the owner at his easel. This wonderful shop also offers a unique blend of antiques, hand crafted heirloom qualityfurniture, select pre-owned furniture, home accessories and fresh flowers.
Design Unique
43 Samoset Street, Plymouth
508-830-1830
www.designs-unique.com
Visit Designs Unique, A kitchen and
bath studio offering complete remodeling services or if you prefer stop in for products only. At design unique, you choose the level of service that suits you. Stop in and see the latest in
cabinets, tile and accessories.
The Village Racquet & Fitness at the Pinehills
30 Gold Drive, Plymouth
508-224-0303
www.VRFClub.com
Chris and Barbara Horne have been in the recreation business for over 40 years. They offer high quality programs in swimming, tennis and fitness. Stop on in for a tour.
Remax Paramount
Larry and Carol Gay, Plymouth
508-922-3179
www.larrygay.net
Over 25 years of experience and knowledge assisting buyers and sellers with a special expertise in waterfront homes, beaches and the South Shore area. We take pride in our integrity with our clients. Call us. Larry & Carol Gay RE/MAX Paramount
508-922-3179 www.LarryGay.net
Hillary’s Bridal
27 Samoset Street, Plymouth
(508)746-1600
www.hillarysbridal.com
Hillary’s Bridal is located in the heart of downtown Plymouth. Hillary’s Bridal is happy to help everyone find the perfect dress for every occasion! Stop by today to see our selection of bridal, bridesmaids, evening and much, much more!
Sparrow House
42 Summer Street, Plymouth
508-747-1240
www.sparrowhouse.com
A visit to The Sparrow House is a must. Offering the finest collection of hand made jewelry, pottery and one of a kind gifts. American hand made by local and nationally recognized artists.
