ArtWeek, ICA Boston Expansion are some of the new happenings in Massachusetts in 2018

There are couple of new things happening in Massachusetts in 2018. Following are some of the highlights:

ArtWeek
Due to explosive growth and demand, ArtWeek is expanding its footprint across Massachusetts for the first time in 2018. ArtWeek will host an annual spring festival that will offer hundreds of creative events featuring experiences that are hands-on, interactive or offer behind-the-scenes access to artists or the creative process. This transition will allow for the further development of regional hubs where ArtWeek has already been gaining traction with an expanding showcase of the state’s creative economy. The next ArtWeek festival will take place from April 27 – May 6, 2018.

MGM Springfield
Opening in the third quarter of 2018, this integrated resort casino will enhance the entire urban center of Springfield. The property will span 14 acres and three blocks within the heart of the historic city. Plans include a 250-room boutique hotel with amenities including spa facilities, pool, gourmet dining options, retail offerings, a public art program and more than 125,000 square feet of gaming space.

ICA Boston Expansion
The Institute of Contemporary Art will be expanding its artistic programming across the Boston Harbor to a temporary site in the East Boston Shipyard and Marina. The new space, called the Watershed, is slated to open in the summer of 2018. The ICA will present art and public programs in the new 15,000-square-foot space seasonally while continuing their regular programming in the Seaport year-round. The Watershed is a raw, industrial space for art unlike any other in Boston, where visitors can experience immersive projects by artists engaged with the site, space, and issues related to this unique location. In addition to a flexible space for art and programs, the Watershed will house an introductory gallery focused on the historic shipyard and a waterside plaza that will serve as a gathering place. Admission will be free for all.

Sam Adams Tap Room
Samuel Adams Brewery, America’s original craft brewer, has debuted a new 80-seat tap room at its Jamaica Plain headquarters. This new space encourages visitors to stop by the brewery before, after, or in place of a tour for some pints, shuffleboard, and sampling of their more experimental brews. In addition to drinking and games, the Sam Adams Tap Room will hosting weekly events like trivia and karaoke as well as food trucks and small food businesses from their Brewing the American Dream program.

Museum of Dog
In February 2018, North Adams will open a new, one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to all things dogs. Located blocks from the country’s largest contemporary art museum, Mass MoCA, Museum of Dog (M.O.D) will feature a private collection of dog inspired paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs and accessories. The 8,000 square-foot historic space, at the merging point of Union Street and the Mohawk Trail, formerly housed Quinn’s Wallpaper & Paint. The museum will feature over 180 pieces from more than 50 notable artists ranging from William Wegman photographs to Mary Engel ‘Watch Dog’ sculptures and rare dog collars dating back to the 1800s.

House of Seven Gables 350th Anniversary
In 1668, merchant and ship-owner John Turner built a house on Salem Harbor that was destined to become one of America’s most beloved historic homes. Designated a National Historic Landmark District in 2007, The House of the Seven Gables is best known today as the setting of world-renowned American author Nathaniel Hawthorne’s 1851 novel. In honor of its 350th anniversary, The House of Seven Gables is running special programming throughout 2018 to feature its many historical and cultural contributions.

Miraval Lenox
Miraval, a high-end resort company, has purchased the Cranwell Spa & Golf Resort and plans to renovate and enlarge the property with an expected grand re-opening as Miraval Lenox in 2018. The resort will be fully operational during the renovations.

Archer Hotel Burlington
Slated to open in early 2018, Archer will be calling 3rd Ave home. Archer is a natural fit for this walkable neighborhood town center. With dining, shops and the region’s exclusive Wegman’s all within walking distance, the Archer is in a good location. Designed to showcase a signature industrial chic style that’s brimming with curated local touches, Archer’s four story boutique hotel greets guests with refined design, 147 luxe guest rooms and suites, amenities, a cocktail bar and patio.