New Year's resolutions may not officially begin for a while yet, but there's no harm in starting early. Embracing new experiences can breathe fresh life into our lives, and that's exactly what we're doing this weekend. From arts festivals to cultural performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Dive into a Weekend of Cultural Adventures
12th Annual Boston International Kids Film Festival
Young cinephiles and their families have the opportunity to explore a world of creativity at the 12th annual Boston International Kids Film Festival. Held at the Mosesian Center for the Arts in Watertown, nearly 60 films will be screened over the weekend. This non-profit initiative aims to inspire kids to use media to tell their own stories. One of the featured films, "Robin and the Hoods," tells the tale of a young girl and her friends protecting a natural space. Individual screenings cost $10, while a festival pass is $59. Family discounts are available, making it a great outing for all.A still from director Phil Hawkins’ film “Robin and the Hoods.” (Courtesy Boston International Kids Film Festival)21st Boston Bhangra Competition
Dance enthusiasts can head to the Strand Theatre in Dorchester for the 21st Boston Bhangra Competition, North America's largest independent Indian dance competition. Bhangra, a vibrant folk dance from the Punjab region, will be performed by dancers from around the world. They'll don colorful outfits and deliver high-energy performances. The non-profit Boston Bhangra also offers classes and promotes cultural awareness. Tickets range from $20 to $100, providing an immersive cultural experience.The Boston Bhangra Competition will take place at the Strand Theatre in Dorchester on Saturday, Nov. 23. (Courtesy Boston Bhangra)Museum of Illusions - Boston Location
This Saturday, the Museum of Illusions will open its permanent location at Marketplace Center in downtown Boston. With over 40 locations worldwide, this museum plays with human perception through light and physics. Spanning 9,100 square feet, it features more than 80 installations and rooms. Instagrammable photo spots add to the fun, while educational and immersive experiences engage visitors. Some of the illusion rooms, like the tilted space and vortex tunnel, are truly mind-bending. There's also a chair that shifts perspective and a table that clones users. The exhibition takes around 90 minutes to explore. Tickets range from $33 to $38.Museum of Illusions will open its Boston location this Saturday. (Courtesy Museum of Illusions)"Narwhal: Revealing an Arctic Legend" Exhibition
The Peabody Essex Museum in Salem presents an exhibition centered around the majestic narwhal. Titled "Narwhal: Revealing an Arctic Legend," the exhibit explores the evolution of the narwhal tusk. Harvard and Smithsonian research scientist Martin Nweeia will discuss this mysterious adaptation, considering climate change and Inuit knowledge. Guests can purchase and have Nweeia sign the exhibition companion volume and the graphic novel "Transformed by a Tusk." Narwhals are medium-sized toothed whales, ranging from 13 to 18 feet long, with the tusk averaging 6 to 8 feet.Narwhals are medium-sized toothed whales, ranging from 13 to 18 feet long not including the long tusk seen on most males, which averages about 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters). (Courtesy Glenn Williams, Narwhal Tusk Research)"Love is the Seventh Wave: The Music of Sting and Peter Gabriel" Performance
British musicians Sting and Peter Gabriel achieved icon status with hits like "Englishman in New York" and "In Your Eyes." The Family Folk Chorale, a Boston-based intergenerational chorus, will perform selections from their repertoires at Arlington Town Hall. Accompanied by a rock band and brass section, the singers will create fresh harmonies. Audiences can sing and dance along with lyric sheets provided. Floor seating is available for children, and there will be a bake sale during intermission with gluten-free and nut-free treats. Tickets range from $14 to $18.Family Folk Chorale’s performance at Arlington Town Hall in March. (Courtesy Peter Schrauth)