August Adventures provides access and opportunities to new and old partners highlighting the geographical and cultural diversity of the Massachusetts arts and culture community. Every day during the month of August, one site will be open for free.
Perfect for anyone curious about their family history—all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels welcome! Activities include:
Wizard Academy!
4:00pm, Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, 14 Castle Street, Great Barrington
The bumbling Professor Hackensneeze (David Engel) makes a visit from the Realm of Mysteries to teach children 4 to 12 the secrets of their innermost powers. Join this loony professor of Wizardry as he leads children on a zany day-in-the-life of a ‘Wizard In Training’ (W.I.T). During “Wizard Academy!” children will have their brain, eyes and reflexes tested with fun challenges and illusions that stir up the primal forces of their imaginations with instruction on potions, wand etiquette, and levitation. Hallmarks of this riotous family-friendly show are madcap sound effects, slapstick antics, talking Trolls and a visit from his furry Sidekick Mortimer. Presto Hilarioso! Children encouraged to attend in costume. Ages 4+
David Engel is a veteran family entertainer and sailor who tours his eccentric clown-theatre acts and inspirational arts in education shows to performing arts center, festival and educational institutions nationwide.
To register: https://mahaiwe.org/event/wizard-academy/
The ICA will be open for free from 10 AM to 9 PM. Free advance tickets are required and will be available to reserve beginning Wednesday, July 22.
To register: https://www.icaboston.org/events/august-adventures-free-admission
Community Day
Everyone is invited to this free, kid-friendly, all-ages Friday afternoon, featuring movement classes as well as dance-themed children’s activities and tours. Activities begin at 2:30pm and will take place throughout the Jacob’s Pillow grounds. At 5:30pm, the outdoor Henry J. Leir Stage will present Berkshire-region dance artists. Free tickets to the 5:30pm performance are now available—reservation recommended.
To register: Community Day — Jacob’s Pillow
The Moanin’ Frogs
12:30pm, Seiji Ozawa Hall
Tanglewood is pleased to present the acclaimed saxophone sextet, the Moanin’ Frogs, as part of Highland Street Foundation’s August Adventures. This family-friendly concert will span a wide range of music that could include Bach, jazz, or Freddie Mercury presented with a sense of play that is guaranteed to delight all ages. Their virtuosic playing of unique arrangements while creating a connection to the audience spells joy.
To obtain your free tickets, visit tanglewood.org, or call 1-888-542-7560.
To register: https://www.thefreedomtrail.org/tours
Use code: AugustAdventures2026