New in this update (May 2, 2008)

New listings

New listings

New listings

Since I ain't omniscient, I've added a links section for other acoustic open mike and venue lists.

The list


Mondays
[Check]Cantab Lounge, 738 Mass. Ave., Cambridge, MA. Host Geoff Bartley. Signup all night. Music starts at 8 PM. venue: (617) 354-2685 Last updated 1/1/1998
[Check]Center for the Arts in Natick, 14 Summer St., Natick, MA. Hosts Mark Stepakoff and The Centre Streeters and Trisha and Phil Knudsen. This open mike now has 3 hosts who rotate (Trish and Phil are the hosts for two weeks each month), and is also sometimes a bluegrass open mike. See the calendar on the web site for what's when. There's a feature around 9 PM. There's a random draw at 8 PM. Admission is free for members, $5 for non-members. venue: (508) 647-0097
host: Trisha and Phil Knudsen at phil@lyricguitarmusic.com		 Last updated 12/20/2006
[Check]In a Pig's Eye, 148 Derby St., Salem, MA. Music starts at 9 PM. Admission is free. 3 songs max. venue: (978) 741-4436 Last updated 9/4/2004
[Check]Front Street Coffeehouse, 20 Front St., Salem, MA. Host Paul Duffy. Second Monday of every month. There is a feature. Max 3 songs or 15 minutes, expanded hours in the summer. Music from 6:30 to 10:30 PM. No cover. This open mike celebrates its seventh anniversary in 2007. venue: (978) 740-6697 Last updated 3/16/2007
The Belmont Club, 34 Franklin St., Fall River, MA. About 8:30 PM to 1 AM. venue: (508) 673-2982 Last updated 4/16/2003
The Folk 'n A, Webster House, 1 Webster St., Worcester, MA. Host Mac Cole. Music at 7:30 PM. "There are only two rules," said the late, dearly missed Mike Duffy in Worcester Magazine. "If you tune on stage, it's considered one song. And you can only use one capo on stage." venue: (508) 757-7208 Last updated 1/20/2006
[Check]The Emerson Umbrella, 40 Stow St., Concord, MA. Host Two for the Show. First and third Mondays except for August (vacation). 7:30 - 10:30, $5, light refreshments available or bring your own. Contact the host by noon on the day of the open mike to sign up, or arrive by 7:15 for a lottery. Feature goes on at 8:30. host: eschmidt01742@yahoo.com, (978) 369-8090 Last updated 11/6/2004
The Middle East, 480 Mass Ave., Cambridge, MA. Host Roger Nicholson. The open mike is held in the corner stage. No cover. Signup starts at 9 PM. Email the host for details. venue: booking@mideastclub.com
host: starryeyed30@excite.com		 Last updated 8/16/2004
The Mews, 429 Commercial Street, Provincetown, MA. Host Peter Donnelly. November to May. Sign up between 7:30 and 8. Tiffany Park says, "Every Monday from November through May, Peter Donnelly hosts a great weekly open mike at the Mews, with a warm, energetic crowd. The food is very good, and they are well-known for having a wide selection of specialty vodkas, if you're a martini-drinkin' kind of guy or gal. If you're up for a drive, you should not be disappointed by this open mike." venue: (508) 487-1500 Last updated 11/6/2004
[Check]The Lizard Lounge, 1667 Mass. Ave., Cambridge, MA. Host Tom Bianchi. New and very, very much improved, with new host Tom Bianchi. It's a challenge, with prizes for the evening's winner. I was at the initial event, completely by accident, and it was really a hoot. $3 for players, $5 for listeners. Door/sign-up at 7:30, show at 8 (well, sign-up is a little more complicated than that - see the Web site). host: tom@24hourtom.com Last updated 9/23/2006
Irish Immigrant Pub, 818 Kempton St., New Bedford, MA. Host Jeff Angeley. Music starts at 9:30. Call ahead for a slot or just stop by. Just about anything goes, as long as you're not a rock band with drums. venue: (508) 993-0990 Last updated 2/24/2006
Tommy Doyle's, 96 Winthrop St., Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA. Host Will Dailey. Music starts at 9 PM. 3 songs, plus an encore round if there's time. Update 6/9/06: this open mike is temporarily (so it's claimed) on hiatus.   Last updated 6/9/2006
Shenanigans, 332 West Broadway, South Boston, MA. Host Joe Faulder. Starts May 1. If attendance is good, the host is considering turning it into a songwriting/performance competition. $3 cover. 20 performers (2 songs each).   Last updated 4/13/2006
Performers Coffeehouse, Salem Access Television, 285 Derby St., Salem, MA. Host Dan Tremblay. First and last Monday of each month. This event happens in the studio of Salem Access Television. The show is taped, edited, and shown in 11 North Shore communities; you have the option of not being taped if you wish. Free admission. Taping from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Contact the host if you'd like to perform. host: (978) 623-8298 Last updated 1/16/2008
T. J. Scallywaggles, 487 Cambridge St., Allston, MA. Host Evan Greer. Sign up at 7, music at 7:30. No cover. Says Evan: "This is an open space for everyone to share what inspires them. There's no mic, but there's a supportive atmosphere and amazing vegan pizza! Plus it's TOTALLY FREE. [...] Bring your poetry, your kazoo, your queer theory rant, your radical tap-dance routine or your all-acoustic rancid cover band. We aim to make this a welcoming and safer space for everyone. Oppressive language or behavior will be confronted!"   Last updated 9/27/2007

Tuesdays
The Burren, 247 Elm St., Davis Sq., Somerville, MA. Host Hugh McGowan. Signup at 6:30, first come, first serve, except for the first Tuesday of each month, when names are drawn from a hat. Music starts at 8 PM. No cover, no feature. I am reminded by a correspondent that there's usually quite a line when signup starts. Get there earlier. venue: (617) 776-6896 Last updated 2/26/2004
[Check]Club Passim, 47 Palmer St., Cambridge, MA. Hosts Cynthia Howes. and Darlington Howland and Matt Heaton and Matt Smith. $5 cover, free for Passim members. Signup at 6:30PM, music at 7. As of April 2007, the venerable Passim open mike shakes things up a bit: no more feature, and now it's a two-song night. venue: (617) 492-7679 Last updated 3/16/2007
The Acoustic Cafe, 2926 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, CT. Music starts at 8 PM. All ages. venue: acousticcafe@aol.com, (203) 335-3655 Last updated 9/25/2005
The Press Room, 77 Daniel St., Portsmouth, NH 03801. Call ahead to reserve a space - my correspondent reports that it fills up very fast. Music starts after the jazz ensemble finishes (sometimes as late as 9:30). Host varies. Readers confirm that this open mike is still going strong. venue: (603) 431-5186 Last updated 3/28/2001
The Chit Chat Lounge, 103 Washington Street, Haverhill, MA 01830. Host Mike of Fourhead. Music starts at 9 PM. There's an on-line signup form on the Web site. venue: (978) 374-9710 Last updated 9/25/2005
Updated listing! O'Briens, 822 Boston St., Lynn, MA. Host Kook Lawry. Music starts at 9 PM. All types of music are welcome. You get 3 songs, maybe more. If you're a solo singer, there might be someone there who can accompany you if you like, including the multi-instrumentalist host. This venue used to be known as Boston Street Cafe. venue: (781) 593-8882 Last updated 5/1/2008
New Wave Cafe, 143 N. Front St., New Bedford, MA. 9 PM to 1 AM or so. venue: (508) 984-0080 Last updated 4/16/2003
The Tinker's Nest, 322 Metacom Ave., Warren, RI. 9 - midnight or so. venue: (401) 245-8875 Last updated 4/16/2003
Java Hut, 1073A Main Street, Worcester, MA. Hosts Matt and Joe of Pharmaceutically Gifted and Me and the Kid. The hosts trade weeks: Me and the Kid on the first and third Tuesdays, Matt and Joe the other weeks. Sign up at 7:30, host plays at 8, open mikers at 8:15. Typically 10 or 15 performers, three or four songs each, music till midnight. venue: (508) 752-1678 Last updated 10/18/2005
[Check]Sweet Bites Bakery and Cafe, 5A Spruce St., West Acton, MA. Host Two for the Show. First, second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, from 6:30 - 9:30 PM. Contact the host by noon on the day of the open mike to sign up, or arrive by 6:15 for the lottery. Feature goes on at 8. $5 cover. Refreshments available. venue: (978) 263-2233
host: eschmidt01742@yahoo.com, (978) 369-8090		 Last updated 9/27/2007
Updated listing! Tammany Hall, 43 Pleasant St., Worcester, MA. Host Dylan Thomson. All styles welcome. Call ahead for a slot starting around 5 PM. Music from 9 PM to 2 AM. Up to a half-hour slot, if there's room. Large stage. venue: (508) 791-6550
host: dylan@thelatemessengers.com		 Last updated 5/1/2008
[Check]Twice Told Tales, Harvey Wheeler Auditorium, 1268 Main Street, Concord, MA. Host Two Cat Folk. Once a month, on what appears to be the third Tuesday. Sign up at 7, music at 7:30. Features go on at 8:30. Refreshments are available. There's a $5 donation, senior citizens are free.   Last updated 11/6/2004
The Barking Dog, 21 Friend St., Amesbury, MA. Music from 8 to 11 PM. The host of this open mike rotates (not literally, mind you).   Last updated 3/5/2005
Blue, 650-A Congress St., Portland, ME. Host Daniel Jacobs. Not a lot of info on this one. Either the music starts at 8, or there's a feature at 8, can't exactly tell. venue: (207) 774-4111 Last updated 8/21/2005
The Shaskeen, 909 Elm St., Manchester, NH. Host Tom Bianchi. The ever-delightful Tom Bianchi returns with this new open mike. Music and signup start at 8 PM. host: tom@24hourtom.com Last updated 2/24/2006
Greendale's Pub, 404 West Boylston St., Worcester, MA. Host Bill McCarthy. Music from 7:30 to 11. It looks like it's best to contact the host in advance for a slot. Half hour slots if you want, people. venue: (508) 853-1350
host: OPENMCC@VERIZON.NET		 Last updated 7/22/2006
Sangrias, 179 Central St., Lowell, MA. Host Jen Kearney. Every Tuesday from 8 to 11. The evening starts with the featured artist from 8 to 8:45, followed by an open signup for the open mike. host: jenkearney@jenkearney.com Last updated 4/1/2008
New listing! PK's Pub, 113 Rockingham St., Bellows Falls, VT. Host Jesse Peters. Every Tuesday at 8 PM.   Last updated 5/1/2008

Wednesdays
Grumpy's, Bellingham, MA. venue: (508) 883-0101 Last updated 1/1/1998
The Island Merchant, 10 Ocean St., Hyannis, MA. Host Sara Leketa. Some nice folks bought and renovated the Prodigal Son, and kept the music going. Details are still the same: sign up by calling after 9:30 AM, first come, first serve. Music starts at 9 PM. No feature, no cover, performers do three songs or fifteen minutes. This open mike is not limited to music. venue: (508) 771-1337 Last updated 4/4/2006
The Rhumb Line, 40 Railroad Ave., Gloucester, MA. Host Fly Amero. Music starts at 8 PM. venue: (978) 283-9732 Last updated 10/27/2007
The Grog, 13 Middle St., Newburyport, MA. This open mike now has a rotating host. Music starts at 7:30. Free admission. venue: (978) 465-8008 Last updated 8/16/2000
Last verified 3/28/2001
Biddy Mulligan's, 1 Washington St., Dover, NH. Host Curt Bessette. Music starts at 7 PM.   Last updated 6/23/2001
Cafe Earth, 1244 Storrs Road (Rte. 195), Storrs, CT. 2nd Wednesday of each month. This is a coffeeshop at the University of Connecticut featuring lots of space, coffee drinks, goodies and a few meal items like sandwiches and vegetarian chili. 6:30 sign up, 7 PM start, 9:30 PM end. No cover. venue: (860) 429-5304 Last updated 6/23/2000
Christine's Heart in Soul Cafe, 4 Pearl St., Mystic, CT. Host Bob Breeding. Music starts at 7 PM. No cover. venue: (860) 536-1244 Last updated 6/23/2001
[Check]Emack & Bolio's, 2 Belgrade Ave., Roslindale, MA. Host Carlyn Hutchins. Signup starts at 6:30, first come first served. Music starts around 7 and ends around 9 PM. 2 songs. There is a feature (half hour) starting around 8. Update 12/23/07: this open mike is on hiatus for December, January and February. venue: (617) 323-3323 Last updated 12/23/2007
[Check]Narrows Center for the Arts, 16 Anawan St., Fall River, MA. My buddy Daniel Jacobs says "It's a great space, an old mill, huge room with beams and sound everywhere. You can feel the history of the place." Music starts at 7 PM. There is a feature. They also have a grand piano which they'll wheel over for you. venue: (508) 324-1926 Last updated 3/6/2008
Starbucks, Melrose Center, Melrose, MA. Second Wednesday of each month. Email host for signup or more info. venue: Bob Eggers at reggers@bitstream.com Last updated 5/15/2002
Off Center Coffee House, 30 Child St., Warren, RI. Open mike/songwriters' showcase. venue: (401) 245-9119 Last updated 4/17/2003
Pioneer Arts Center of Easthampton (PACE), 41 Union St., Easthampton, MA. New night! Sign up at 6:30. Music starts at 7:30 PM. Suggested donation of $3 venue: pace@pioneerarts.org, (413) 527-3700 Last updated 9/25/2005
Lucky Dog Tavern, 53 South Main Street, Plymouth, NH 03264. Music from 10 PM to 1 AM. Hosts rotate. The crowd is reported to be enthusiastic. Call J.S @ 603-254-3325 if you want to host. venue: (603) 536-2260 Last updated 5/9/2005
All-Asia Cafe, 334 Mass Ave., Cambridge, MA. Host Bryan Murphy. Music from 9 until closing time, after a band from 6 till 9. No cover.   Last updated 1/16/2008
Rinaldo's Restaurant, Village Plaza, Marblehead, MA. Hosts Erinn Brown and John Warren. Signup around 7:30. The hosts alternate weekly.   Last updated 7/10/2004
The Middle Earth, Barton St., Bradford VT, MA. 8 PM - 12 AM. $3 cover. venue: (802) 222-4748 Last updated 9/25/2005
Village Gate Folk Stage, Route 130, above the Brookline Village Store, Brookline, NH. Host Nate Smith. First and third Wednesdays of the month. $5 at the door, pass the hat for the feature. Music from 7:30 to 10, feature at 8:30. Players should sign up in advance at the host's email address listed for 15 minute slots. Refreshments available at the store downstairs. New host Nate Smith takes over for founder Basil Harris. host: greystone@net1plus.com Last updated 12/20/2006
Updated listing! The OutLoud Coffeehouse at the Beebe Estate (venue), 235 West Foster St., Melrose, MA. Host Northern Edge. The Beebe Estate is a beautiful Greek Revival-style mansion. The open mike is the third Wednesday of each month. Sign up at 7:15, music from 7:30 till 9:30 PM. Most of the time there is a feature. No cover; donations accepted for charity. Starbucks of Melrose graciously provides coffee and tea.   Last updated 5/1/2008
Avenue C, 166 Eastern Ave., Malden, MA. Host Jeff Munro. New night! Every Wednesday from 8:30 PM till 1:30 AM (them's rock'n'roll hours, there). Jeff used to host the open mike at TJ's. venue: openmicmalden@yahoo.com Last updated 8/21/2005
Club Rendezvous, 596 Moody Street, Waltham, MA. On Restaurant Row in Waltham, this venue sports a newly refurbished PA. Sign up at 8, music at 9. 21+. Poets and comedians welcome too. Update 7/1/06: this open mike is temporarily (so it's claimed) on hiatus.   Last updated 7/1/2006
Starbucks, 260 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville, MA. Host Max G. Signup starts at 7:15, music until about 9:30   Last updated 7/22/2005
River City Bar & Restaurant, 87 Washington St., Haverhill, MA. Host Chad Verbeck. Open mike jam hosted by the North Shore band "Waywards Chasm". Sign-up starts at 8; music goes from 9ish till 12:30. Full band capability. The host reports that the facilities are excellent, and you can arrive early to set up equipment. There is usually a keyboard. Features are occasional, invited by host for half hour set, paid with "pass the hat" and anounced on host website. 15-20 min spots depending on list. venue: (978) 372-6988 Last updated 11/10/2005
JD Coopers, 146 Park Rd., Putnam, CT. Host Mark Renburke. Every Wednesday, starting at 8 PM. venue: (860) 928-0501 Last updated 5/15/2006
Udderly Delicious, 273 Main St., Oxford, MA. Hosts Lisa Martin and Tom Beaudreau. Every Wednesday from 7 till 9. Patti DeRosa says it's delightful. Hosted by Tom Boudreau on the first three Wednesdays of the month, and by Lisa Martin on the fourth. venue: owner@udderlydelicious.net, (508) 987-9636 Last updated 7/8/2007
Empire Tea & Coffee, 22 Broadway, Newport, RI. First and third Wednesdays from 8 to 10 PM (second and fourth Wednesdays are those awful poetry people, we don't want to have anything to do with them, now). venue: (401) 619-1388 Last updated 8/5/2006
Aqua, 120 Water St., Boston, MA. Acoustic showcase every Wednesday from 8-10 PM, followed by a featured artist at 10:30. $5 cover after 9:30. venue: (617) 720-4900 Last updated 11/5/2006
The Blue Shamrock, 105 Market St., Lowell, MA. Host Craig Lantagne. The host says, "A nice place to play and usually a very nice crowd." 9:30 PM to 1:30 AM. Signup and number of songs are casual, usually between 4 and 6 songs. venue: 978 458-1288
host: 603 401-6905		 Last updated 3/6/2008
Paddy Barry's, 1574 Hancock St., Quincy, MA. Host Matt Putnam. Music from 9 PM to 12; sign up at 8:30. 2 songs or more depending on list. Matt says: "Paddy's is 'The Best Little Pub in the World' and there's always a great vibe for performers and listeners alike. The owner has given gigs to some of the performers he's heard here." venue: (617) 770-3620 Last updated 4/1/2008
Kings, 10 Scotia St. (50 Dalton St.), Boston, MA. Host Maarten from Holland. Every Wednesday. Signup starts at 8, first come, first served. Music starts at 9. All sorts of performers welcome: musicians, poets, dancers. 18+, so bring your ID. No cover.   Last updated 7/8/2007
Brooklyn Coffee and Teahouse, 290 Douglas Ave., Providence, RI. Hosts vary. Sometimes there's a feature. Sign up around 7:30, first come, first served. Music from 8 to 10:30.   Last updated 7/8/2007
Blue Mermaid Island Grill, 409 The Hill, Portsmouth, NH. Hosts Duke Mandell and Rob Cunningham. Music starts around 8 PM. Pretty laid back; the list is in the host's head, I'm told. Number of songs varies depending on how busy it is. The occasional juggler or comedian has been known to stop by. venue: (603) 427-2583 Last updated 10/27/2007
Harvest Cafe, 40 Washington St., Hudson, MA. Host Steve Howard. No cover. Music from 8 till 10. Sign up at 7:30. Good food, full bar. venue: (978) 567-0948 Last updated 2/10/2008
Speakers Night Club, 19 Weed St., Malborough MA, MA. Host Bill McCarthy. Music from 7:30 to 11. Contact the host in advance for a half-hour slot. host: OPENMCC@VERIZON.NET Last updated 12/23/2007
New listing! McGreal's Tavern, 690 Main St., Norwell, MA. Host Lee Prince. Sign up starts at 7 PM, music begins at 7:30 PM. Everyone who signs up gets to perform four songs or 15 minutes.   Last updated 5/1/2008

Thursdays
Mrs B's, Georgetown Plaza, Georgetown, MA. Also Friday and Saturday venue: (508) 352-6183 Last updated 1/1/1998
Squawk Coffeehouse, Harvard Epworth Church, 1555 Mass Ave., Cambridge, MA. 9 PM to midnight. Performers get 10 - 15 minutes (i.e., 2-3 songs), depending if there's a feature & opener. This open mike has been running weekly since 1988. $3 cover plus donation for the feature. venue: (617) 776-3625 Last updated 9/25/2005
Mickey Cassidy's, 116 Main Street (Rte. 109), Medway, MA. Host Peter O'Dea. This club used to be called Sabina Doyle's. Same room, same host, so I'll call it the same open mike. Music starts at 8:30, host plays till 9. Signup is at 8 PM, latecomers welcome. All types of music. Set length from 15 minutes on up, depending on attendance. The host says, "Small room. Great acoustics. Attentive audience. Comfortable atmosphere."   Last updated 2/26/2004
Charlie Hall's STAGE, 235 Promenade Street, Providence, RI. The Komedy Kawfyhouse is an open mike for stand-up, improv comedy, music & more. Hosted by the co-founders of the Speed Of Thought Players. Anything goes from rap and skits to puppet shows. "8:30 PM until we're done", they say. Parking, full bar, $5 cover. venue: (401) 621-4141 Last updated 9/22/2001
Maine Songwriter's Showcase, North Star Cafe, 225 Congress St., Portland, Maine. Open mike from 9:30 to 11 PM, first come, first served, 15 minute slots. From 7 to 9:30, a pre-booked series of half-hour showcases. Interestingly, the venue is open all day, and the PA is on; if you feel like it, drop in and play.   Last updated 3/16/2007
McNally's Grille & Pub, 88 Sargent Road, Westminster, MA. Host Heidi-Jo Hanson. For musicians, storytellers, poets, comedians and others. Performances from 8 to 11 PM. Free admission. There is a feature. This event has moved over here from the Wachusett Village Inn, so I didn't add it to the graveyard. venue: 978-874-1444 Last updated 7/12/2005
Side Door Coffeehouse, Hyde Park Presbyterian Church, 1109 River St., Hyde Park, MA. Host Two for the Show. Last Thursday of each month. Doors open and signup starts at 6:30. Music from 7 to 10. Admission is $5, $3 for students and seniors. host: eschmidt01742@yahoo.com, (978) 369-8090 Last updated 6/4/2004
The Arizona Restaurant & The Green Martini Lounge, 6 Pleasant Street Extension, Concord, NH 03301. Host Duane D'Agnese. Sign up starts at 7:30, music from 8 to 11. 4 songs per performer, max 15 minutes. Non-smoking room, cozy (seats about 60), good food. Reserve a slot in advance by email. Acts will be selected for feature on Fri or Sat night once monthly. venue: (603) 223-6672
host: ddagnese@comcast.net, (603) 224-6169		 Last updated 2/19/2005
New Moon Folk Club @ Halligan's Royale Lounge, 889 Southbridge Street (where Routes 12 and 20 run together), Auburn, MA. Host Teri Righi Canty. Meets almost every Thursday night. No cover, pass the hat for the occasional feature. Sign up in advance by email or in person at 7. Music starts at 7:30, feature at 8:45. Advice sign-ups are guaranteed a 3 song (15 minute) set. Update: I'm told that this open mike is on hold. venue: NewMoonFolk@aol.com Last updated 2/19/2005
[Check]The Rose Room Revue @ The Rose Garden, 16 Milford St., Upton, MA. Host Matt Lindi. This weekly songwriter showcase and open mike starts at 7 PM. Old buddy Steve Rapson reports, "Good food, good vibes, decent audience, great sound." You may be able to sign up in advance at the email provided. venue: revue@uptonrosegarden.com, (508) 529-7776
host: matt.lindi@mattlindi.com		 Last updated 11/6/2004
Café Arpeggio, 800 Purchase St., New Bedford, MA. Host Art Tebbetts. Coffeehouse and ice cream factory (!). 7 - 10 PM. 2 or 3 songs. No feature planned at the moment. No cover. venue: (508) 999-2233
host: drjazz@rcn.com		 Last updated 10/1/2004
Blue Plate Lounge, 661 Main St., Holden, MA. Hosts Al Lake and Ed Sheridan and Ricky Carlson. 7 to 11 PM "most Thursday nights", says the press release. Call if you're worried. No cover. venue: 508-829-4566 Last updated 11/6/2004
Joyce Family Pub, 907 Matunuck Beach Rd., Matunuck, RI. Host Eric Neff. Vinnie Joyce himself invites you to this open mike night, which starts at 8 PM. There is no cover. Sign up starts when you get there, he says. venue: (401) 789-2684 Last updated 11/20/2004
Tupelo Music Hall, 2 Young Rd., Londonderry, NH. Host Robert Haigh. Last Thursday of each month. This event is hosted by Robert Haigh, host of the late, great Old Vienna open mike. Sign up at 6:00, music at 7. $5 cover, random draw, two songs, feature at 8:30. Desserts and refreshments will be available, but no BYOB on these nights due to multi-age audiences and performers. venue: (888) 688-7356 Last updated 9/25/2005
Dark Star Pub, 630 Park Ave., Keene, NH. Hosts Derek Astles and Steve White. Every Thursday at 8:30 PM. No cover, no feature (yet). venue: (603) 355-3900 Last updated 3/30/2005
Fish Hill Tavern, 104 Cabot St., Beverly, MA. Host Roze and Jim Malone. Music from 9 PM to 11:30 PM. No cover. There is a feature. You'll get 2 songs at least. venue: (978) 232-0180 Last updated 5/15/2006
Common Man, 60 Main Street, Ashland, NH 03217. Hosts Dave Walker and Jim McHugh. Music from 8 till midnight. 15 minute slots, no cover, no feature. Jim & Dave open, then back anyone who wants plus open jam at the end once all the signed up players are done. Maury says, "The Thursday Common Man in Ashland NH open mike has been o-u-t-s-t-a-n-d-i-n-g !!!! Get there early :-)".   Last updated 7/9/2005
[Check]Amazing Things Arts Center, 55 Nicholas Rd., Framingham, MA. Host Dan Cloutier. Michael Moran, the driving force behind the Natick Center for the Arts for many years, turns his attention to Framingham. His new open mike starts on September 1. Sign up at 7:00, random draw at 7:30. Music from 7:30 to 11. $5 for non-members, $4 for members. There will be a keyboard available. There is a feature. venue: (508) 405-ARTS Last updated 4/4/2006
Mole's Eye Cafe, 4 High St., Brattleboro, VT. Host Kevin Parry. Information's a little thin on this one - no start time information on the Web site, among other things. Here's what one of the folks on the OpenMic-Boston list has to say: "ou can sign up that night or in advance by calling the bar - try to get there early to get a good slot. If it's a slow night you may get to play more than the three songs normally allowed. In any event the beer is good and the crowd, well it may be a bit noisy at times but generally they will be supportive."   Last updated 2/5/2006
Our Place, 124 Main St., Gardner, MA. Host COSMIC MOXA. Every Thursday night from 8:30-12:30. Sign up starts at 8:00. Musicians perform for 15 minutes or more depending on number of players. 10 PM feature for 45 minutes. Live recording (audio or video) is an option; call or e-mail the host for details. Update 6/9/06: This open mike will run every other week during the summer, and will not have a feature. venue: (978) 297-2423
host: cosmicmoxa@net1plus.com		 Last updated 6/9/2006
The Riddle Tavern Acoustic Spotlight at Buckley's Great Steaks, 438 Daniel Webster Highway, Route 3, Merrimack, NH. Hosts Dan Plante and Gary Blaisdell. First Thursday of each month. Music from 7 to 11 PM. Contact the host by email or by phone between 6 PM and 9 PM to get on the schedule for a 1/2 hour Showcase Set, or 1 hour Feature Set, or just show up to participate in the "Music in the Round" portion of the show, or play a couple songs in between. venue: (603) 424-0995
host: Gary Blaisdell at acoustic-showcase@earthlink.net, (603) 672-4454		 Last updated 4/29/2007
Rick's Music World, 421 New state Hwy (Rt 44), Raynham, MA. An open mike in a music store! Sign up at 6:45 PM, music from 7 till 10 or so. Coffee and desserts available. All ages, family-friendly. $3 donation requested. venue: (508) 977-0200 Last updated 4/13/2006
The Pine Loft, 1474 Berlin Turnpike, Berlin, CT. Every Thursday night. Music starts at 6:30. openmikes.org beat me to this one. venue: (860) 828-9797 Last updated 7/1/2006
Sturbridge Coffee Roasters, 212 Hamilton St., Southbridge, MA. Host Tom Beaudreau. First Thursday of each month. Music from 7 to 9 PM. venue: (508) 765-5520 Last updated 7/22/2006
Music in Melrose, Church of the Nazarene, 2 Short St., Melrose, MA. Hosts Howie Newman and Janet Feld. Second Thursday of each month except summer (June - August). $3 cover includes free refreshments and a free raffle for a CD. There's a 30-minute pass-the-hat feature. venue: musicinmelrose@yahoo.com, (781) 662-2616 Last updated 12/23/2007
Pugliese's, 635 Cambridge St., Cambridge, MA. Host Mike Mayne. Signup starts at 8 PM. venue: openmicatpugs@gmail.com, (617) 491-9616 Last updated 2/2/2007
Patrick's, 40 Lebanon St., Malden, MA. Host David Gagnon. No cover. Signup/start at 9 PM. All types of talent are welcome: poetry, theatre, comedy, etc. Accompaniment may be available for singer/songwriters if desired. Sets are about 15 minutes. There may be a feature after the open mike has been going for a while. venue: (781) 324-3418 Last updated 4/7/2007
Limelight Stage + Studios, 204 Tremont St., Boston, MA. Doors open and signup starts at 7 PM. Music begins at 7:30. $5 admission. There will be a featured performer each week who performs 3-4 songs.   Last updated 4/29/2007
The Whistle Stop, 85 Main St., Oxford, MA. Host Bill McCarthy. Music from 7:30 PM to 11. Contact the host to sign up in advance for a half-hour slot. host: OPENMCC@VERIZON.NET Last updated 12/23/2007
Yesterdays, 536 Washington St., Quincy, MA. Host Jimmy Peters. Sign up at 8, music from 9 till closing. Open to musicians, poets, comedians, etc. Nice cozy bar, says the host.   Last updated 1/16/2008
Tewksbury Country Club, 1880 Main St., Tewksbury, MA. Hosts Billy Glynn and Matt Aucoin. Starts 5/1/08. Every Thursday night from 7 to 10 PM. Sign up starts at 6:30. Admission is free. host: Matt Aucoin at (617) 633-2369 Last updated 4/1/2008
New listing! Fritz Belgian Fries, 45 Main St., Keene, NH 03431. Host Garth Tichy. Music from 7 to 9 PM. Sign up via email or just show up. venue: fritzopenmic@yahoo.com Last updated 5/1/2008

Fridays
[Check]Java Jo's Coffeehouse, 556 Adams St., Milton, MA. Host Anne Eder-Mulhane. One of my very favorites. Random draw, no cover, feature. Music starts at 7 PM. Stop by the new JP location for the Thursday open mike, hosted by Mike Delaney. Update: I can't believe I missed this. The Milton location burned down in October, and the open mike will resume at the Jamaica Plain location (3710 Washington St.) on January 4. venue: (617) 698-6400 Last updated 12/23/2007
New England Country Fare, Holbrook, MA. venue: (617) 767-9782 Last updated 1/1/1998
Vanilla Bean Cafe, Pomfret, CT. First Friday of each month. Sign up starts at 7 PM, first come first served, music starts at 7:45 and ends around 11. There is a feature, from 8:30 to 9. Cover is $2. venue: Marie Sangiolo at msang@snet.net Last updated 8/3/2001
South Shore Folk Music Club, Beal House, 222 Main Street, Kingston, MA. Third Friday of each month. Music starts at 8 PM. Feature performers go on first. $5 for non-members, $4 for members. venue: (781) 871-1052 Last updated 10/26/2002
O'Donnells Irish Tavern, 547 Donald St., Bedford, NH. Host Rose Kula. Feature from 8 - 8:45, then a 30- 40 minute set by Rose's jam band, then the acts, till everyone has played (around 1 AM). Sign-up is first come, first served (talk to Rose when you arrive). I-93 to Rt. 114 to Donald St. venue: (603) 668-2120
host: queenkula@aol.com, (603) 627-5021		 Last updated 7/5/1999
Last verified 8/12/2001
Cafe Downtown, 713 Main St., Willimantic, CT. First Friday of each month. venue: (860) 423-7682 Last updated 6/23/2001
Borders Books, 281 Daniel Webster Highway, Nashua, NH. Host Greg Decoteau. First Friday of each month. No cover. Signup is at 7:00 - first come, first choice of playing order. Host Greg Decoteau plays at 7:30 and everyone else starts about 8:00. Anywhere from two to four songs each, depending on how many performers there are. venue: (603) 888-9300 Last updated 9/8/2002
[Check]Stagecoach Inn, 128 Main Street, Route 119, Groton, MA 01450. Host Skip Jackson. This open mike is called Five Star Fridays. Music runs from 7 to 10 PM. In addition to an open mike and feature, Skip is reserving some 15 minute and some 30 minute slots for other performers. First timers get one or two songs. venue: 877-782-4346, 978-448-5614
host: glennsd@aol.com		 Last updated 10/10/2003
[Check]The Coffee Depot, 501 Main St., Warren, RI. Host Manny Perry. A new open mike from the folks who hosted the open mike at Cafe La France in Bristol. Music from 7:30 to 10 PM. Feature from 8 to 8:45 PM. No cover charge. Please bring a non-perishable food donation for Bristol Good Neighbors, their local food pantry, in support of "Singing Out for Food" for the Artist Hunger Network. More info at http://www.singingoutforfood.org. venue: (401) 247-9890 Last updated 2/19/2005
Iced Coffee House, Nahant Community Center, in the Valley Road School, 41 Valley Road, Nahant, MA. Host Carol Hanson. Last Friday of each month from 6 PM - 9 PM. Refreshments are available. $5 for listeners, free for performers. Open mike is held in the basement front left art studio. The building is handicapped accessible. Parking is limited; please walk if you live within walking distance. The host has started scheduling features; contact her if you're interested. venue: (781) 599-2222 Last updated 5/15/2006
Borders Books, 476 Boston Turnpike (Rt. 9), Shrewsbury, MA. Host TJ Peavy. Music starts at 7. venue: (508) 845-8665 Last updated 12/23/2007
First Universalist Church of Norway, 479 Main St., Norway, ME. Host Heather Pierson. Last Friday of each month. Signup begins at 6:30, open mike begins around 7. Admission is $3. Refreshments are available. All ages, abilities and talents are welcome. host: vessel@prexar.com, (207) 935-4505 Last updated 9/25/2005
Carmen Dei, Highland Ave., Malden, MA. Second Friday night of each month, although it might also happen on other Fridays. Doors open at 7:30. From the Web site: "Come and share original (or cover) songs, art, poetry, etc. Music-Art-Poetry-in a worship context. Come check it out. If you want to sign-up for a slot early email John at jfrederick@berklee.net. You may also sign-up the night of the show."   Last updated 12/6/2005
First Friday Folk at the Coffee Beanery Cafe, 655 Portsmouth Ave., Greenland, NH. Host Randy Browning. First Friday of every month. Music starts at 6:30. There's a pass-the-hat feature. My correspondent says, "REALLY nice owners, only a couple of miles off Rt 95. Terrific coffee, light entrees, great pastries. Cozy room, nice sound system, just gettin' goin'." host: randy@latebloomersmusic.com Last updated 6/9/2006
Borders Books, 151 Andover St. (intersection of Rte. 128 and Rte. 114), Peabody, MA. Hosts Dan Tremblay and Michael Scott O'Donnell. Open mike the third Friday of the month, in the cafe upstairs. Sign up at 7 PM. Hosts play till 8. 2 songs, maybe another song if time permits. Poets and musicians are welcome. No drums. venue: (978) 538-3003
host: Dan Tremblay at (978) 623-8298		 Last updated 2/10/2008
The Mill Fudge Factory, 2 Central St., Bristol, NH. Music from 6:30 to 10 PM. 15 minute slots. Specialty coffee and homemade ice cream. My spy says, "Nice small performance space and good listening audience." venue: millfudge@gmail.com, (603) 744-0405 Last updated 12/20/2006
New Song Arts Center, 76 Park St., Rockland, MA. Old friend Bob Alonge continues his community support with an open mike most Fridays and Saturdays. Check the Web site for more details. venue: (781) 413-7604 Last updated 2/23/2007
Uplifting Connections, 1355 Pleasant St., West Bridgewater, MA. Music at 7 PM.   Last updated 9/27/2007
White's Landing, 7 Fiskdale Road (Rt. 148), Brookfield, MA. Music from 6:20 or so until 10 PM (or later). Says my pal Matt Lindi, "My friends Josh and Mary have started up a little open mike every Friday night out in Brookfield that has really started to take off. It seems that there is quite a lot of frustrated but excellent talent out in them thar woods just waiting to break out if only given the opportunity. [...] Some of those folks out there can really pick, grin and sing, and the food at White's is excellent - especially the Italian Snausages!!! Oh - and did I mention the sunset??" venue: (508) 867-5561 Last updated 9/27/2007
McKinley's, 30 Main St.., Springfield, VT. Host Jesse Peters. Jesse Peters returns to Springfield, VT for his newest open mike. First Friday of each month. Music starts at 8.   Last updated 11/29/2007

Saturdays
[Check]Round Room Coffeehouse, Mont Vernon Congregational Church, Rt. 13 North, Mont Vernon, NH. Host Sue Granfors. Second Saturday of each month, September to June. Sign up at 7:00 music at 7:30. Usually three songs (no more than 15 minutes). There is a feature. $5 cover benefits the Stained Glass Restoration Fund. Reservations are encouraged; contact Pam Holt at the venue or visit the Web site. venue: info@roundroomcoffeehouse.com, (603) 759-1885 Last updated 8/2/2007
Boulder Coffeehouse, First Parish Unitarian-Universalist Church, 923 Main Street, Fitchburg, MA. Host Nate Smith. Second Saturday of each month. This is a one-hour open mike, from 7:30 to 8:30, which precedes the main concert of the evening. $5 donation suggested. Open-mike performers are asked to call coffeehouse coordinator Nate Smith well before the day of the event at 978-345-2661, or arrive early to sign up for any remaining slots. host: greystone@net1plus.com Last updated 12/20/2006
Chapel Arts New England, 13 Glen Rd. (corner of Rts. 2 and 16), Gorham, NH. The Rev. Marlena Schilke would like you to know that there's an open mike before the main show at Chapel Arts almost every Friday from the end of June through the end of October. Check the Web site to make sure. Open mike starts at 7:30, main show at 8. To perform, send email to mschilke@gmail.com or telephone 603-466-2129.   Last updated 7/9/2005
C.A.P.E. Coffeehouse and Recital Showcase, Old Methodist Meeting House, 495 Main St., Wareham, MA. Hosts Camille Breeze and Rick Fetters. I'm not sure how I've left this one off my list all these years. This is a monthly concert and occasional open mike on the fourth Saturday of the month. Camille sez, "It has the best sound of any room I know." Music from 7 or 8 till 10:30. Concerts are $10 and $5. At some open mikes, younger acts have the privilege of performing early, at 7 PM.   Last updated 3/6/2008
MoonStruck Cafe, 19 Old Worcester Rd., Charlton, MA. Host Tom Beaudreau. Second Saturday of each month. Music starts at 6:45 PM. venue: (508) 248-4558 Last updated 7/22/2006
Beatnik Blend, Studio for the Dramatic Arts, 561 Windsor St., Somerville, MA. Host Mike LaChance. Right now, it's on occasional Saturdays. Check the Web site. Entertainment starts at 8 PM. 21+. Music, comedy, poetry, whatever. Book a slot in advance by calling the host or just show up. $10 at the door. host: 617-417-4481 Last updated 8/5/2006
[Check]Off the Common Coffeehouse, 50 School St., Bridgewater, MA. Well, this is embarrassing. This coffeehouse, which is held the first Saturday of each month from September through May, has an open mike in between the two sets from the evening's performer. One song. Admission to the show is typically $10; the 2006-7 season features folks like Barbara Phaneuf, Don White, Bernice Lewis and Dave Crossland. Music starts at 8. venue: (508) 697-5425 Last updated 2/12/2007
North Street Coffeehouse, First Parish U.U. Church, 26 North St., Medfield, MA. Host Janet McKetchnie. First Saturday of every February, April, May and November. Open mike from 7:00 to 9:15 (usually 2 songs each), then a feature until 10:00 p.m. All genres of music, prose, poetry and comedy welcome. Audience is warm and supportive. Admission $10, or $5 for open mikers. Refreshments available. host: imjanet@comcast.net Last updated 9/27/2007
Cafe Blue Hills, 535 Canton Ave., Milton, MA. Host Fenwick Macmillan. Second Saturday of the month (September through June). Open mike (or the occasional jam session) follows the evening's featured performers. Slots are 5 or 10 minutes. Open mikers are encouraged to sign up in advance by e-mailing: info@cafebluehills.org. Fenwick says, "Great room, nice sound system and dynamite food and bevs."   Last updated 2/2/2007
Morin's Bar & Grille, 16 South Main St., Attleboro, MA. Host US Sam. Every Saturday night. Music starts at 8 PM   Last updated 6/12/2007
Catbird Coffeehouse, 500 Columbian St., South Weymouth, MA. Located in the lobby of the New England Wildlife Center (currently no mention of it on the Web site yet, though). Music from 4 to 7 PM. venue: (781) 682-4878 Last updated 2/10/2008
Updated listing! Enter Stage Left Theater Studio Workshop, 30 Main St., Hopkinton, MA. Host Barbara Kessler. Yes, that Barbara Kessler, taking time out of her busy life to help build up a community resource. First Saturday of every month. Sign up at 7, music starts at 7:30. There will be a feature. $5 at the door.   Last updated 5/2/2008

Sundays
Giuseppe's, 312 D W Highway #13, Meredith, NH. Hosts Lou Porazzo and Michael Bourgeois. This open stage has been running for many, many years. No cover, no feature. Host does a set at 7 PM, open mikers start at 7:30. Music ends at 11. Set length depends on the length of the list, but 20 minutes is common. Giuseppe's has a grand piano, too. venue: (603) 279-3313
host: Michael Bourgeois at boogjag@fcgnetworks.net		 Last updated 10/1/2004
[Check]Parish Center for the Arts, 10 Lincoln St., Westford, MA 01886. Host John Ferullo. Second and fourth Sundays of each month. In-person signup at 7:00, lottery at 7:15, feature around 9. $5 cover. Try the experimental on-line sign-up! host: john@johnferullo.com Last updated 11/11/2001
[Check]King Hooper Cafe, King Hooper Mansion, 8 Hooper St., Marblehead, MA. Hosts Angela Masciale and Dan Zampino. First Sunday of every month. This 2-song open mike is for musicians and poets. Sign up at 5:30, music from 6 to 10 PM. Admission $4. venue: Marblehead Art Association at (781) 631-2608 Last updated 7/9/2005
[Check]Off the Square Coffeehouse, Keene Unitarian Church, Parish Hall, 69 Washington St., Keene, NH. Second Sunday of each month. Music and spoken word welcome. Sign up at 6:30 PM, open mike from 7 to 8, feature from 8 to 9. $5 donation. Refreshments available. venue: ken@monad.net Last updated 4/7/2002
The Womens' Club Theatre, Bellows Falls, VT. Host Ezra Veitch. Second Sunday of each month, presented by Cota & Cota. The Womens' Club Theatre is on the main square, under the New Falls Cinema. Music starts at 7, feature at 8. $3 admission. host: redaxe@sover.net Last updated 12/3/2002
Breaking New Grounds, 50 Main Street, Durham, NH. Host Coby Carlucci. 7 - 9 PM venue: (603) 868-6869 Last updated 4/16/2003
St. James Irish Pub, 91 Purchase St., Fall River, MA. 9 PM to 1 AM or so. venue: (508) 672-6951 Last updated 4/16/2003
Central Square Coffeehouse, The Rantoul Vault Theater in the LynnArts Building, 25 Exchange St., Lynn, MA. Host Dave Simmons. Third Sunday of every month, music from 6 PM to 9 PM. Sponsored by LynnArts and hosted by members of Folk/Country/Bluegrass group Northern Edge. There is a feature. Admission is $5 for listeners, free for performers. Snacks available. Host performs from 6 to 7 (less if there are a lot of open mikers), open mike from 7 to 8, feature from 8 to 9. venue: (781) 598-5244
host: davsimmons@comcast.net		 Last updated 12/26/2003
Sunset Grille, RR 49, Campton, NH 03223. Host Bob King.. Intimate bar with regular crowd. Music from 8 PM to 12 PM. venue: (603) 726-3108 Last updated 2/26/2004
Yesterdays, 78 Third Street, Turners Falls, MA 01376. Host Sarah Bear. Every Sunday night 7-11 p.m. Sign-up begins at 6:30 p.m. Each performer is allowed a 20 minute set. For more info or to sign-up in advance call (413) 522-3281. venue: (413) 863-4701 Last updated 4/2/2004
The Dubliner, 197 Market St., Lowell, MA. Host Jason Blundo. Every Sunday night from 8 - 11 PM. venue: 978-458-2120 Last updated 1/20/2006
Penuche's Ale House, 6 Pleasant St., Concord, NH. Host Steve Naylor. Music from 9 to 1 AM. venue: (603) 225-3115 Last updated 4/13/2006
Steve's Backstage Pass, 15 School St., Taunton, MA. Host Rick Fetters. Every week during the summer. Signup starts at 12:45, music from 1 till 4. $3 cover. Food and drink (beer and wine too). "Great stage, great sound", says Rick. venue: (508) 824-3436 Last updated 7/1/2006
Cu Na Mara Irish Restaurant, 11 Hobart Rd at Rte 3A, Bristol, NH. Host Les. Music from 7 to 10 PM, outside in the tiki bar, or inside in the porch during the colder months. All forms of folk music welcome. venue: (603) 744-6336 Last updated 11/29/2007
Blender, at the Midway Cafe, 3496 Washington St., Jamaica Plain, MA. Host Jessie Rae. First Sunday of each month, 6 - 8 PM. This event is for performers of all types: singers, poets, actors, magicians, jugglers (it's a blender, right?). $5 cover. Doors open a 5 PM. There is a feature.   Last updated 2/23/2007
Pugliese's, 635 Cambridge St., Cambridge, MA. Host Jay Hammond. Signup starts at 7:30, music at 8. No features yet, but there will be. Update: This open mike is suspended for the time being. venue: (617) 491-9616 Last updated 4/7/2007
6B Lounge, 6 Beacon St., Boston, MA. Host Ryan Fawcett. Sign up at 8:45. Music starts at 9 PM. Musicians, poets, comedians welcome. No cover, 21+. venue: (617) 742-0306 Last updated 4/29/2007
Imagine Studios, 32 Elm St., Amesbury, MA. It's back! The long-standing Imagine Studios open mike resumes the last Sunday of each month. Music from 7 to 10 PM. Free admission. Yummy food.   Last updated 6/10/2007
Tazza, 250 Westminster St., Providence, RI. Host Chris Rosenquest. Signup is at 7, show starts around 7:30. No cover. 2 or 3 songs, depending on the list. I'm told that it's usually well attended, with actual listeners. Good acoustics, food, bar.   Last updated 3/6/2008

Links

Open mike graveyard

I began listing open mikes on my Web site in March 1998. Since then, a whole pile have come and gone. Here, I list the open mikes which have been reported to me as being no more (sleeping with the fishes, etc.). I'll be listing these alphabetically, with the date of first listing and the date I reported them as deceased (before July 1999, it's the first date they were removed). These dates are approximate, since I'm always a little behind.