5 Weekend Musts: Sailing Open House + More

Friday, July 19, 2013

Miranda Bethune, GoLocalWorcester Contributor

Ever wanted to learn to sail? You'll get your chance for free this Saturday at Regatta Point.

Feeling like you’re stuck in a summer rut? Read on for five great things you can do to get out there and try something new! Whether you decide to go sailing for free, see a demonstration

of 19th-century fire trucks, or have an exhilarating encounter with a live bird of prey, there are tons of unique events that are sure to liven up this weekend!

Regatta Point Community Sailing Open House, Worcester

Saturday Spend an afternoon testing the waters at Regatta Point Community Sailing for this unique opportunity to get free boat rides and sailing lessons! Kids will appreciate the games being offered during the day as well, but this event is perfect for all ages. There will be an info session on adult sailing classes and summer sailing camps for 9-16 year olds, so come down for this free day of nautical fun and then sign up to get a discounted price for the rest of the season. You definitely want to take advantage of the chance to sail down Worcester’s very own waters for free! 1:00pm-4:00pm. Lake Quinsigamond, Regatta Point State Park. 10 Lake Ave. North. Email [email protected].

Fire & Ice Day, Sturbridge

Saturday It’s often said that opposites attract–see for yourself with a Fire & Ice Day at New England’s Living History Museum, Old Sturbridge Village! Get fired up with a one-of-a-kind 19th century hand-pump fire truck demonstration, plus a historic fire truck parade around the Common, and then cool down with some old-fashioned ice cream making. The morning will feature 18th-century style ice cream ingredients, recipes, and tools to make chocolate ice cream using chocolate that has been roasted at the village, while fruit ice cream made using 19th-century techniques will be offered in the afternoon. Make sure you also check out the fourth annual chili contest, with restaurants like B.T.’s Smokehouse and Publick House vying for the title of “Best Chili in History Contest.” And don’t forget, half-price admission is offered for all firefighters at this event! 9:30am-5:00pm. Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd. Cost: Adults $24, Seniors 65+ $22, Youths 3-17 $8, Children under age 3 free. Check out the event page for more details.

Birds of Prey, Worcester

Don't miss checking out these wild birds of prey this weekend at the EcoTarium. Photo: Tambako

Sunday Stop by the EcoTarium for an incredible live animal demonstration to learn about the several species of raptors that call this indoor-outdoor museum their home. You’ll see bald eagles, hawks, and owls, among others, and then get a chance to get up close and touch a majestic living bird of prey. Not only is it a great educational opportunity, it’s a wicked cool way to say you’ve bonded with one of nature’s greatest hunters. 1:30pm-2:30 pm. 222 Harrington Way. $3 per person, plus EcoTarium admission. $2 for EcoTarium members. Email [email protected] if you want to find out more.

WARL’s Bow Wow Luau, Worcester

Saturday Bring man’s best friend to this fundraiser being put on by the Worcester Animal Rescue League. You can make sure your canine is in tip-top shape with nail trims, microchipping, baths, and more while you enjoy the music and raffles and browse the yard sale of pet-related items. To be admitted to this puppy party, WARL is asking that you bring a dog-related supply donation–preferably dog food, collars, and blankets. Have fun meeting other people and their pets while giving back to the lovable pooches that always give you so much! 12:00pm-2:00pm. Worcester Animal Rescue League, 139 Holden St. For more details, see their Facebook event page.

George Street Bike Challenge, Worcester

Sunday Avid bikers will love this challenge–test your biking prowess to see how quickly you can pedal up George St. in downtown Worcester! This steep slope, with an impressive grade of 18 percent, was once the old stomping (or pedaling) grounds of world champion Major Taylor, often called the “Worcester Whirlwind.” Barney’s Bicycle and the Seven Hills Wheelmen are sponsoring the event, and they’ll be timing you as you push yourself to speed through the 500-foot route. 10:00am-2:00pm. George St. $20 entry fee, free for spectators. Proceeds benefit the Major Taylor Association. Contact Lynne at [email protected] with any questions.