The heritage trails in Massachusetts paint vivid pictures of days past. Yet they are 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 Trail 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 Celebration
November 20, 2009Through November 22. Giant parade with bands, floats, fife and drum corps march through Plymouth.
Annual Thanksgiving Harvest Festival
November 21, 2009Through November 22. Over 25 local family farms and businesses come together to offer all the best fixings for your Thanksgiving table and home. Red Apple Farm in Phillipston
Parade of the Big Balloons
November 27, 2009This wonderful parade features giant helium balloons led by the 75ft Cat in the Hat.
Lenox Thanksgiving Antique and Vintage Collectible Show
November 27, 2009Through November 29. Lenox Village will celebrate Thanksgiving in New England with an “Antique and Vintage Collectible Show.”