The heritage trails in Massachusetts paint vivid pictures of days past. Yet they're 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 Tour 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.

America's Hometown Thanksgiving Parade
November 22, 2008Giant parade with bands, floats, fife and drum corps march through Plymouth.
Parade of the Big Balloons
November 28, 2008This wonderful parade features giant helium balloons led by the 75ft Cat in the Hat.
Lowell City of Lights Parade
November 29, 2008Holiday parade and art stroll through downtown Lowell.
Nantucket Christmas Stroll Weekend
December 5, 2008Through December 7. 150 decorated trees throughout town; Victorian carolers and musicians and Santa.

