Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Marlborough, MAs Cultural Scene

Marlborough, MA may not be as famous for its cultural scene as Boston is, but there are plenty of hidden gems worth exploring. From theaters to museums to concert venues, here are some of the best places that reveal the thriving, diverse, historic, modern and vibrant nature of people who live in Marlborough.

First on the list is The New England Sports Center (121 Donald Lynch Blvd). Although its primarily a sports complex with ice rinks and soccer fields for tournaments and leagues yearround; it also doubles as an events space that hosts concerts by local artists like Booty Vortex or Adam Ezra Group. During winter months visitors can enjoy iceskating performances while warmer months include outdoor events such as food truck festivals.

Next up we have one of Marlboroughs bestkept secrets: The Assabet Valley Rail Trail (Downtown parking lot at Mechanic St.). This multiuse trail spans over nine miles throughout HudsonMarlboroStowMaynard and has been called a work of art due to its natural beauty including woods filled with lush greenery accompanied by bird songs contrasting busy shopping plazas where you can grab takeout from Main Street restaurants on route.

While street art might not be obvious initially when visiting Marlborough stop downtown around Broad Street area near City Hall (140 Main St) where it intersects with West Main keep your eye out for various murals done by Festival Latino de Arte y Cultura Artists showcases intricate patterns that reflects traditional Hispanic motifs mixed with Pop Art influences.

For theatergoers looking for a unique experience out in fresh air check out Heritage Hikes sitespecific productions located at different parks throughout Worcester County(26 Maple Ave Shrewsbury). Past shows included recreations immersive experiences around The Tempest inside Callahan State Parks pond complete with eerie lighting and make up.

Last but not least, its worth stopping by John Brown Bell (34 Stow Rd). It is placed on the front end of City Hall lawn since 1941 to commemorate the heroic abolitionists legacy who once resided in town. The bell rings every year on his birthday and various events are hosted there throughout the summer including the popular outdoor music series Concerts On Kane.

Marlborough may remain a hidden gem with regards to art and culture in Massachusetts, but that only makes exploring its cultural sites all the more rewarding. Each of these places illuminates different aspects of Marlboroughs thriving arts scene one that speaks to both history as well as forwardthinking creativity.

Websites:

New England Sports Center: www.nes.com

Assabet Valley Rail Trail: www.avtrails.org

Festival Latino de Arte y Cultura Artists :www.festivaldelatino.org

Heritage Hikes Productions:http://heritagehikes.org/

Twitter Handles:

Adam Ezra Group: @adamezragroup

Booty Vortex: @bootyvortex