A Night Out in Wakefield

At the heart of the Wakefield community is a thriving nighttime scene that brings people together to enjoy music, movies, family activities, or dining al fresco. From bustling community hubs to seasonal events, Wakefield offers a wide variety of experiences for residents and visitors of all ages and is an ideal destination for a date night, a family fun night, and all types of interests. 

Let’s begin our journey through some of Wakefield’s unique nightlife in the summer.

Movies By the Lake 

Movies by the Lake is a free summer outdoor film series held on the Common by the shores of Lake Quannapowitt. Hosted by Wakefield Community Access TV (WCAT), the Thursday night events feature pre-movie activities and screen family-friendly favorites at sundown. This summer’s movies include: Tangled (July 16), Zootopia (July 23), Lilo & Stitch (July 30), and The Incredibles (August 6). A rain date for August 13 is set for make-up showings. Don’t forget to bring your beach chair or blanket and take out from one of our local restaurants, while you enjoy one of these movies under the stars! 

Plaza Jazz Series 

Lucius Beebe Memorial Library is hosting its much-loved Plaza Jazz series, taking place every Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. from July 9 through September 3 on the library’s front plaza, located at 345 Main Street. Check out some of our quick-stop eateries, grab something to eat, and enjoy a relaxing evening of music, which will easily shift indoors to the library’s cozy Living Room in the event of inclement weather. 

Supported by the Friends of Beebe Library, this summer’s exciting, nine-week lineup features weekly performances by Annie and the Fur Trappers (July 9), Phil Sargent (July 16), The Late Risers (July 23), Smack Dabs (July 30), Matt Savage (August 6), Alex Minasian (August 13), Rhiannon Hurst (August 20), Rubin Brothers (August 27), and Lee Fish (September 3). Get ready to enjoy some soulful and relaxing jazz music with friends and family this summer. 

Ice Cream Social

Wakefield’s oldest public building is celebrating summer with an ice cream social on Tuesday, August 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. The Hartshorne House, located along the shore of Lake Quannapowitt at 41 Church Street, was built in 1681 and features a beautiful garden that you can relax in as you enjoy the summer evening.

More Beebe Library Events 

The Beebe Library also offers a wide variety of evening speakers, activities, and events suitable for families, including story hours, chess matches, and trivia games.  

On July 21, check out Felted Flowers, an in-person crafting session part of the Wildflower Project. This activity is being held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Or, for math enthusiasts, join the Crazy 8 Math Club every Wednesday from 6 to 7 p.m. Music lovers will enjoy the Music Bingo Night on July 28 from 7 to  8:30 p.m. Be sure to register in advance for these activities, as they fill up quickly. 

Dine Alfresco with Friends 

Food just tastes better, conversations flow easier, and the nights last longer when you’re dining under the open sky with your favorite people. Wakefield offers several locations where you can dine outdoors this season. Enjoy a night of good food, good company, and the outdoors. Some of Wakefield’s outdoor dining options include: Tonno, for an authentic Italian experience;  Howie’s Bar and Vincent’s Kitchen, for Asian fusion cuisine; Bellino’s, for the authentic taste of Italy; and Tequila’s, for Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.  

These are just a few things to do and places to go in Wakefield at night! To find more restaurants, discover great retail shops, and learn about key events in town, use our business directory and events calendar. Plan your night in Wakefield today!