Samuel Bayer
Smartass troubadour.
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Boston
open
mikes
Boston open mikes

And I do mean "mike".

This list was originally compiled by WUMB-FM, but has evolved considerably, due to the contributions of vast numbers of correspondents and fellow musicians, including Tim Sullivan, Steve Rapson, Dan Hart, and the late Marcel Kopp. If it is in error in any way, or if there are details I should add, please send me e-mail. I'm gradually expanding my listings in adjacent states, so don't neglect them. If you're adding a new listing, please tell me the venue (including address and phone), host, cover, signup/start times, how many songs (if other than 2), and whether there's a feature or not.

I do not rate the open mikes, nor can I guarantee the accuracy of the listings; please call ahead to confirm. I do, however, indicate that I've personally visited an open mike with a check mark ([Check]).

I now note the status of each listing. "Current" means that I am fairly confident that the listing is accurate. If I'm not, I supply the date of the most recent update or verification. A question mark means that I have no record of updating the listing since November 1999 (when I first started keeping track of dates) and I haven't verified it since then.

For historical purposes, I also maintain an open mike graveyard list, for all you folks who wonder what happened to those open mikes you went to when you were a pup. The graveyard now includes all open mikes which have vanished from the list since its inception.

News

May 2008: This list is generated automatically from a database every time you visit it, so you'll get the updates as soon as I add them to the database.

September 2011: A number of sites seem to be interested in using my open mike listings. Most of them include a link (thanks!), but on some sites, I've found out-of-date listings, which offends my sense of order. So now there's an easy way for you to embed my open mike listings in your Web site.

October 2013: I've been horribly neglecting this page, and so I'm now in the process of scrubbing it ferociously, to get rid of the accumulated detritus. It's big, so I'm working my way through it one day at a time - at this writing, I'm up to Wednesday, but I hope to finish the entire process by the end of the month. Sorry about the mess. November: More of a mess than I thought. Up to Friday, which took a real beating. New Year's Day 2014: Finally, current.

New in the last month

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. Used to be free, now $3, well worth the money. venue: (617) 354-2685 Last updated 12/8/2013
Last verified 6/4/2017
The Belmont Club, 34 Franklin St., Fall River, MA. Host Amanda Rae. Sign up at 7:30, music starts at 8. I thought this was defunct, and I was wrong. Some blues jamming, some songwriters. venue: (508) 673-2982 Last updated 3/15/2014
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
Last verified 9/22/2013
[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
Last verified 9/22/2013
The Rendezvous, 78 Third St., Turners Falls, MA. Last Monday and second Tuesday of each month. Free admission. Open mike starts at 8 PM. Rick Drost says "there's an amazing amount of talent and creative people among the performers and the audience".   Last updated 1/1/2014
[Check]Roslindale Open Mike @ Boston School of Modern Languages (venue), 814 South St., Roslindale, MA 02131. Host Mike Delaney. Second and fourth Mondays. Open mike music continues in Roslindale, thanks to Neal Braverman and Mike Delaney and a cast of literally a thousand volunteers. No cover. Doors open at 6, sign up begins at 6:30, random draw at 6:40, and the open mike starts at 7:00, with a feature act at 8:30PM. You can also sign up in advance, until noon on the day of the open mike, by emailing the host. The expectation is that the open mike runs till 10:30 PM. Refreshments are free, with suggested donations to benefit the school as a way of thanking them for hosting the open mike. Pot luck food requested. For detailed directions and parking recommendations, visit the ROM Web site. When he's available, Steve Friedman of Melville Park Recording will be there to record your performance. This is a one-song open mike. venue: neal@roslindaleopenmike.com
host: mike@mikedelaney.org
Last updated 5/29/2018
[Check]LOMA (Lincoln Open Mike Acoustic) @ Lincoln Public Library, 3 Bedford Rd., Lincoln, MA. Host Rich Eilbert. Second Monday of each month, except for holidays, when it will be the 3rd Monday). Music from 7 to 10 PM. Admission is free, and refreshments will be served. There will be a 30-minute feature at 8:30. Sign up at the event, or send email by the day before. Random draw at 7:15. There will be a small sound system. Update: For April, May, June 2014, the open mike will temporarily move to Bemis Hall (2nd floor), 15 Bedford Rd., Lincoln, MA as the library undergoes renovations. venue: loma3re@gmail.com Last updated 4/15/2014
Smoken Joe's Barbeque, 351 Washington St., Brighton, MA 02135. Host Bruce Marshall. Music from 7 to 10 PM. No feature. Signup starts around 6:15. Host Bruce Marshall says, "You can always get a slot here, it’s laid back and I tend to get lots of newcomers all the time. It’s a small, square space so you have a “captured” audience. The authentic Memphis style barbecue is a huge draw, it’s really one of the best anywhere, the crowd is appreciative and the staff is friendly." 2 songs, 8 - 10 minutes. The host plays an opening set.   Last updated 3/11/2011
Last verified 9/22/2013
President's Rock Club (venue), 1546 Hancock St., Quincy, MA 02169. Host Holbrook Garcia. Sez the host: "President’s Rock Club offers a large professional stage, lighting, and sound reinforcement in the heart of downtown Quincy. We’re only 12 minutes from Boston and have ample parking directly adjacent to the venue. We are also down the street from the Quincy Center MBTA stop. The Club offers a full menu, a full bar and comfy couches surrounded by cool rock memorabilia and collectables." Sign up at 8, music at 8:30. 21+, drum friendly, feature slots available, all styles welcome. Advance sign up is available for bands or individuals with special set up considerations. Please call if you're not sure the club can set you up quickly. venue: Colin Campell at (617) 770-7900 Last updated 1/1/2014
Sunset Cafe (venue), 851 Cambridge St., Cambridge, MA. Host Karen Reddy. Every Monday night. Music from 8:30 to 11. No cover. 18+. Acoustic only. Hand percussion welcomed. venue: audiocracyopenmic@gmail.com Last updated 4/25/2014
O'Shea's Olde Inn, 348 Main St., West Dennis, MA 02670. Host Kathleen Healy. Second and fourth Mondays, looks like. Not sure. This is a singer/songwriter circle followed by an open mike. Circle from 7:30 to 8:30, then open mike till 11:30.   Last updated 1/11/2015
Devlin's Restaurant, 332 Washington St., Brighton, MA. Host Tim Ko.. Every Monday. Sign up and open mic begin at 8:30 PM and end at midnight. First come, first serve. Three songs (within reason). Full PA system provided with ample mics and mic stands. All styles and levels of experience are welcome and encouraged; originals and covers; percussion is OK, but no drum sets or loud guitar amps, please. Upscale, Irish barroom atmosphere w/ fantastic food and beer selection! Atmosphere is not suitable for comedy or spoken word. venue: 617-779-8822
host: BostonLovesMusic@gmail.com
Last updated 2/21/2015
Hull's Kitchen, 19 Hull Shore Drive, Hull, MA. Host PB and Jay Records. Every Monday, May to September. 6 to 9 PM. This is the South Shore's only OUTDOOR open mic. Located directly across from Nantucket Beach. It is a SHINE ONLY event. Please call ahead if rain is in question for open mic status. venue: 781-925-0225 Last updated 5/30/2015
Ellen Schmidt's Open Mike @ Main Streets Market and Cafe (venue), 42 Main St., Concord, MA. Host Ellen Schmidt. While our good friend Ellen Schmidt has stepped back from active management, this open mike that honors her pivotal role in the community is still going strong. It's still happening the first Monday of every month from 7:30 PM until no later than 11 PM. It's a remarkable draw, and the open mike list fills up well in advance of each event. Send email to Dan Tappan to ask to perform, or sign up on the event's Facebook page. There is a feature and a mini-feature each night.   Last updated 4/6/2018
Blue Room Sessions Open Mic @ White Rose Coffeehouse, 56 Central Square, Lynn, MA 01901. Music from 7:30 - 10. There is a feature. Acoustic musicians and spoken word artists welcome. The White Rose is a very cool little place - good food, dedicated owner. Check it out.   Last updated 4/8/2017
Indo Pub, 298 Cabot St., Beverly, MA. Host Bob Kramer. Every Monday. Music from 8 to 11.   Last updated 9/20/2019
The Bebop, 1116 Boylston St., Boston, MA 02215. Every Monday. Music from 8 PM to 1 AM (21+ after 10 PM). 2 songs each. Sign up in advance via the link on the venue Web site. venue: 857-250-4641 Last updated 9/20/2019

Tuesdays
[Check]Center for the Arts in Natick, 14 Summer St., Natick, MA. Host Mark Stepakoff. Irregular schedule, apparently: sometimes first and third Tuesday of each month, sometimes second and fourth. 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 Last updated 4/30/2015
Last verified 10/5/2018
The Acoustic Cafe, 2926 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, CT. Music starts at 8 PM. Call ahead to sign up or show up at 7 sharp. All ages. venue: acousticcafe@aol.com, (203) 335-3655 Last updated 9/25/2005
Last verified 9/29/2013
The Press Room, 77 Daniel St., Portsmouth, NH 03801. Music starts at 9 PM, although I've been told that sometimes it's later, after the jazz ensemble finishes. Try calling ahead to reserve a space - my correspondent many years ago reported that it fills up very fast. Host varies. No feature. venue: (603) 431-5186 Last updated 3/28/2001
Last verified 9/29/2013
The Chit Chat Lounge, 103 Washington Street, Haverhill, MA 01830. Hosts Mike of Fourhead and Paul Prue. Host Paul Prue says: "This NEW Acoustic Open Mic 1st Tuesday of every month is an open stage featuring local and regional artist. The format will encompass all genres of music. The Chit Chat Lounge has a rich history of presenting great music on it's famous stage. In the 90s I hosted the open mic for several years. It's good to be back hosting one of their Tuesday evenings. There is a great sound system, lighting, drum kit and bass if needed, If a musician wants a recording of his set just let me know beforehand. Bring your instruments, voice and your friends. Great music, great people and fabulous fun." Music starts at 830. Sign up in person at 8, or call the venue anytime after 5 PM. venue: (978) 374-9710
host: Paul Prue at paulprue@aol.com, 978-590-2119
Last updated 4/5/2018
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
Last verified 9/29/2013
Bolton Public Library Unplugged @ Bolton Public Library, 738 Main Street, Bolton, MA 01740. Host Dan and Faith Senie. 3rd Thursday of the month, July and August excluded. Signups at 7PM, music starts around 7:30. All acoustic, no PA. Keyboard available. Free. Some refreshments usually provided. No feature. If you're on Facebook, you can check here for occasional announcements about scheduling changes. Two song open mike followed by a song circle. host: us@danandfaith.com Last updated 11/23/2016
Main Streets Market and Cafe (venue), 42 Main St., Concord, MA. Host Bruce Marshall. Music from 7:30 to 11 PM. No feature. 2 songs, 8 - 10 minutes. The host plays an opening set. For signup, see Lyle Montague (the guy in the corner with the baseball cap) starting around 6:30. This open mike is supposedly very popular - the list will fill up.   Last updated 10/4/2013
Tommy Doyle's, 349 Watertown St., Newton, MA. Host Tim Ko.. Every Tuesday. Sign up and open mic begin at 8:30 PM and end at midnight. First come, first serve. Three songs (within reason). Full PA system provided with ample mics and mic stands. All styles and levels of experience are welcome and encouraged; originals and covers; percussion is OK, but no drum sets or loud guitar amps, please. Upscale, Irish barroom atmosphere w/ fantastic food and beer selection! Atmosphere is not suitable for comedy or spoken word. host: BostonLovesMusic@gmail.com Last updated 2/21/2015
St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 421 Wianno Ave., Osterville, MA. Second Tuesday every month. Sign up at 6:15 PM, music starts at 6:45 or 7:00.   Last updated 10/4/2013
Sandywoods Center for the Arts (venue), 43 Muse Way, Tiverton, RI. Host Chris James. Music from 7-10 PM. Admission is free, but donations for the musicians and performers are much appreciated. Coffee is available for sale. Weekly raffle for tickets for other shows at the venue. Poets, musicians, other spoken word artists welcome. There is sometimes a feature.   Last updated 10/4/2013
The Rendezvous, 78 Third St., Turners Falls, MA. Last Monday and second Tuesday of each month. Free admission. Open mike starts at 8 PM. Rick Drost says "there's an amazing amount of talent and creative people among the performers and the audience".   Last updated 1/1/2014
Club Passim, 47 Palmer St., Cambridge, MA. Hosts Kristina Latino and Matt Smith. The weekly Tuesday open mike returns to Club Passim, after a long hiatus. $5 at the door, free for members. Music starts at 7 PM. Sign up at the door, performance order determined by lottery draw. 2 songs or 10 minutes. No feature. There is an electric piano available. Steve Friedman, of Melville Park Studio, records the open mike every week and will mix your set for your for $15. venue: (617) 492-7679 Last updated 6/29/2014
South Gardner Hotel, 8 E. Broadway, Gardner, MA. Music starts at 9, supposedly. I know squat about this one.   Last updated 1/11/2015
J. R Brody's Roadside Tavern, 734 Teaticket Highway, East Falmouth, MA. Music starts at 9 PM. It's a bar, so prepare for loud.   Last updated 1/11/2015
Welly's Restaurant, 153 Main St., Marlborough, MA 01752. Host P J Rogue. The open mike from the Harvest Cafe in Hudson continues here. Not quite sure whether there's going to be a regular or rotating host. Looks like the first and third Tuesdays. Music from 7 till 10, I think. venue: 508-281-2091
host: pjrogue@yahoo.com, 978 568-8100
Last updated 11/15/2015
Koto (venue), 90 Washington St., Salem, MA. Host Jon Waterman. Every Tuesday starting at 8 PM. There is a feature. My old pal Jon Waterman hosts this open mike, and says it's a lot of fun. Full bar, great food. venue: 978-498-4826 Last updated 4/8/2017
The Hearing Room, 119 Chelmsford St., Lowell, MA. Hosts Hugh McQueen and Rich Cande. Sign up at 6:30, music from 7 to 10. There's an on-line sign-up at the Web site. $5 admission. You may bring coffee/tea/soda and snacks if you want to.   Last updated 4/8/2017
The Gaff (venue), 467 Moody St., Waltham, MA. Every Tuesday at 10 PM. venue: 781-209-5600 Last updated 9/20/2019

Wednesdays
The Island Merchant (venue), 10 Ocean St., Hyannis, MA. Host Brandon Hood. Music starts at 9 PM. venue: (508) 771-1337
host: brandon.c.hood@gmail.com
Last updated 11/30/2013
The Grog, 13 Middle St., Newburyport, MA. Host Dave Hill. Music from 8 to 11 PM. venue: (978) 465-8008 Last updated 10/4/2013
Luthier's Coop, 108 Cottage St., Easthampton, MA. Music from 7 to 10 PM. At one time, it was sponsored by the Pioneer Arts Center of Easthampton, but I'm not sure that's still true.   Last updated 10/4/2013
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
Last verified 10/4/2013
The OutLoad Coffeehouse @ 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
Last verified 10/4/2013
Paddy Barry's, 1574 Hancock St., Quincy, MA. Host Matt Putnam. Music from 9 to 12. 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 5/20/2011
Last verified 10/4/2013
Blue Mermaid Island Grill, 409 The Hill, Portsmouth, NH. Hosts Duke Mandell and Rob Cunningham. Music starts at 8:30. 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 10/4/2013
Firefly's BBQ (venue), 350 East Main St., Marlborough, MA. Host Bruce Marshall. Recently moved from the Framingham location to the Marlborough location. Music from 8 to 11 PM. Signup starts around 7:15. Host Bruce Marshall says, "This new home is a much larger space with lots of tables so bring your friends and family! The performers play on a real stage to those at the bar and surrounding tables as well as a connected pool hall! You can always get a slot and I’m constantly impressed with the quality of musicians that come down. The fact that it’s the home of Metrowest’s award winning barbecue only adds to the fun." The host does a 40 minute warmup set.   Last updated 10/4/2013
Wiretap Wednesday Open Stage @ The Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville, MA 02143. Hosts Michael J. Epstein and Sophia Cacciola. First Wednesday of each month. Sign up in person at 7, music from 7:30 - 10:00, feature at 8:30. No cover. From the hosts: "The list order will be randomized and posted at 7:30 PM. Each performer will take the stage and a 5-minute timer will be set. Performers will be cut off if they exceed the 5-minute time limit (including setup) to ensure that at least 20 performers (maximum allowed to sign up) will fit prior to curfew. At 8:30 PM, a pre-booked feature performer will play a 25-minute set. Video of each performer will be posted and will remain available for at least 7 days. After 7 days, performers may request removal of their performance from the public archive." Visit the Web site or contact host Sophia for more information. host: Sophia Cacciola at Sophia@donotforsake.com Last updated 1/28/2012
Last verified 10/4/2013
Hugh O'Neill's, 45 Pleasant St., Malden, MA 02148. I can't believe that I didn't know about this one - it's been around for ages. Sign up at 8, music from 8:30 to 12:30. venue: (781) 338-9977 Last updated 4/7/2012
Last verified 10/4/2013
The Country Cow, 57 Blair Rd., Campton, NH. Host Jim Tyrrell. Music from 7 - 10. No cover. Amenities include a wonderful patio on the Pemigewassett river and an 1870 covered bridge.   Last updated 8/12/2012
Last verified 10/4/2013
Mick Morgan's, 118 Needham St., Newton, MA. Host Tim Ko.. Every Wednesday. Sign up and open mic begin at 8:30 PM and end at midnight. First come, first serve. Three songs (within reason). Full PA system provided with ample mics and mic stands. All styles and levels of experience are welcome and encouraged; originals and covers; percussion is OK, but no drum sets or loud guitar amps, please. Upscale, Irish barroom atmosphere w/ fantastic food and beer selection! Atmosphere is not suitable for comedy or spoken word. venue: (617) 795-0136
host: BostonLovesMusic@gmail.com
Last updated 2/21/2015
Feed Your Love @ Wellfleet Preservation Hall, 335 Main St., Wellfleet, MA 02667. Hosts Bert Jackson and Don Boivin. Here's an open mike I've been ignoring for five years, apparently. Third Wednesday of every month, in the lower level performance hall. Music starts at 7 PM. Sign up at 6:30. They try to give each performer two songs. Snacks available.   Last updated 10/4/2013
Salon of Shorts @ Cotuit Center for the Arts, 4404 Falmouth Rd., Cotuit, MA. Hosts Christine Rathburn Ernst and Gregory Hischak. 5-minute performances by poets, musicians, storytellers, you name it. Free admission. No feature. Event starts at 7:30.   Last updated 10/4/2013
Milton Art Center, 334 Edge Hill Road, Milton, MA. Host Franc Graham. Last Wednesday of each month. Music from 7:30 to 10 PM. Sign up for your slot on the whiteboard as you enter. Two songs per person.   Last updated 4/25/2014
Mondo's Bar and Grille, 6 Gillespie Rd., Charlton, MA 01507. Host Wibble. Music from 8 to 11:30. 3 songs, for the moment. All kinds of music welcome.   Last updated 9/21/2014
Harvest Gallery Wine Bar, 776 Main St., Dennis, MA 02638. Host Kathleen Healy. Every Wednesday. Sign up at 7. Music from 7:30 to 10:30. 15 minute sets.   Last updated 1/11/2015
Giuseppe's Grille, 35 Solomon Pond Rd., Northborough, MA 01532. Music from 7 to 10 PM. Contact the host for slots in advance.   Last updated 1/11/2015
Weston Open Mic Night: We've Got Talent! @ Weston Town Hall, 11 Town House Rd., Weston, MA 02493. Host Brenda Asis. Starting January 2017, first event on 1/18. Sears Auditorium (2nd floor), refreshments start at 6, performances from 7 - 10 PM. Free and open to the public. Perform or just come to listen to acoustic music and spoken word. Register in advance by 1/17. Contact the host to register or for questions or more information. Says the host, "This event is intended to be the beginning of an inclusive, monthly event that forges connections between musicians, poets, and an enthusiastic audience. Our goal is to foster creativity and build a community where participants have an opportunity to try out new material in a supportive and open environment. We expect to attract people of various ages and experience levels with different musical and poetic tastes and styles." host: BrendaAsis1@gmail.com, 781- 726-1168 Last updated 11/23/2016
VFW Hall, 95 Derby St., Salem, MA. Hosts Julie Dougherty and TMax. Last Wednesday of each month. This open mike is the spiritual successor to the venerable open mike at In A Pig's Eye. Music from 7 to 10. Free admission, pass the hat for the feature.   Last updated 4/8/2017
Tapley Memorial Hall - Danvers Historical Society, 13 Page St., Danvers, MA. Host Dan Tremblay. Monthly performers night, starting June 2017. First show May 24, 2017 at 7 PM; then the third Wednesday of each month. Tapley Hall is a stately old style theater with stage and 1800s look with super acoustics. Contact the host if you're interested in performing. host: dh.tremblay@outlook.com, (978) 777-2711 Last updated 4/29/2017
Rowley Veterans Association, 19 Bradford St., Rowley, MA. Host Bob Kramer Trio. 1st and 3d Wednesdays of each month. 8 - 11 PM. Friendly and warm, playing with each is encouraged.   Last updated 4/5/2018
Unearthed Song & Poetry @ home.stead bakery & cafe, 1448 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester, MA 02122. From the Facebook announcement: "Unearthed Song & Poetry is an open mic series at home.stead bakery & cafe that happens every 2nd Wednesday of the month. Each month we feature a rising musician and poet and encourage any and all poets and musicians to sign up to share 2 pieces of their work. Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 7:30pm. $5 cover at the door." This event will switch to the first Friday of the month starting in January 2019. venue: 617-533-7585 Last updated 11/2/2018
The Jungle, 6 Sanborn Court, Somerville, MA 02143. Host Eva Davenport. Every Wednesday. Sign up at the stage at 7 PM. Music from 7 to 9:30. No cover. There may be a feature. Kitchen and bar open till 1 AM. Sing, recite, dance, do whatever you like.   Last updated 2/27/2020

Thursdays
[Check]The Rose Room Revue @ The Rose Garden, 16 Milford St., Upton, MA. Host Ronda Matson. This weekly open mike runs from 7:30 to 10:30. There is no longer a regular feature. venue: revue@uptonrosegarden.com, (508) 529-7776 Last updated 11/9/2013
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
Last verified 11/9/2013
Blue Plate Lounge, 661 Main St., Holden, MA. Hosts Al Lake and Ed Sheridan and Ricky Carlson. 8 to 11 PM "most Thursday nights", said the original press release. Call if you're worried. No cover. venue: 508-829-4566 Last updated 11/9/2013
Tara's Tipperary Tavern, 907 Matunuck Beach Rd., Matunuck, RI. Host Harvey Marcotte. 8 PM. There is no cover. Sign up starts when you get there, the owner says. venue: (401) 284-1901 Last updated 11/9/2013
Common Man, 60 Main Street, Ashland, NH 03217. Hosts Jim McHugh and Steve McBrian. 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 8/12/2012
Last verified 11/11/2013
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
Last verified 11/10/2013
The Pine Loft, 1474 Berlin Turnpike, Berlin, CT. Every Thursday night. Music from 7 - 10 PM. openmikes.org beat me to this one. venue: (860) 828-9797 Last updated 11/10/2013
Fritz Belgian Fries, 45 Main St., Keene, NH 03431. Host Garth Tichy. Every Thursday at 6:30 PM. Not sure whether this counts - slots are reserved in advance, but I don't know if any negotiation is involved. Contact Zach at the email address listed. venue: acousticthursdays@yahoo.com Last updated 11/10/2013
[Check]Mix and Music @ Somethin's Brewin' Book Cafe, 241 Main St., Lakeville, MA 02347. Host Kim Hill. Last Thursday of each month. Signup starts at 6, open mike starts at 6:30, hour-long feature at 8. I love this room.   Last updated 9/21/2014
The Maynard Open (Stage) @ Maynard Public Library, 77 Nason St., Maynard, MA. Host E.Z. (Eric Zeller). Usually 1st Thursday of the month, but just the 3rd Tuesday in July and August. Music from 7pm to 8:45pm. The open mike and its equipment must be out of the building by 9pm sharp. There is additional parking at the municipal lots on the south side of Summer St. and the east side of Nason St. south of the library. Dates may change occasionally; email Drew at thedrewbadour@yahoo.com to get email reminders about the show, or to sign up in advance. Free admission and nominal free refreshments (extra snacks are always appreciated). venue: (978) 897-1010 Last updated 11/15/2015
Bloc 11, 11 Bow St., Union Square, Somerville, MA 02143. Every Thursday night. Sign up at 6:30, music from 7 to 9. No cover. venue: (617) 623- 0000 Last updated 11/10/2013
Gulu-Gulu Cafe, 247 Essex St., Salem, MA 01970. Hosts Brian Donnelly and Lucas Custer. Every Thursday night. Sign up at 7:30, music at 8. Poets, comedians, musicians welcome.   Last updated 9/20/2019
Hen House Sports Bar, 85 South Main St., Newton, NH. Host John Porazinski. Every Thursday night. Music from 9 PM to midnight. 3 - 5 songs.   Last updated 12/12/2010
Last verified 11/10/2013
Speed of Thought Playhouse, 39 North Washington St., North Attleborough, MA 02760. Every Thursday night. Electric/Acoustic Open Mic, starting at 8:30. Sign-up starts at 8. Music, comedy, and spoken word, all welcome. Full bands can play after 10 PM; there's a drum kit available.   Last updated 9/6/2012
Last verified 11/10/2013
Poet's Corner Poetry and Music Open Mic @ Cultural Center of Cape Cod, 307 Old Main St., South Yarmouth, MA. Hosts Barry Hellman and Joe Gouveia. Last Thursday of the month, January to October. Sign up at 6:30, music from 7 to 9 PM. More details on the venue's events, calendar, or at the host's Web site (although you'll have to scroll down a bit).   Last updated 10/4/2013
Starbucks, 542 Main St., Winchester, MA. Host Mike Verge. First Thursday of each month (except July and August). Music from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at Starbucks. Sponsored by the Winchester Community Music School. Sign up at the door or in advance by calling WCMS (781-721-2950). Individual or small duo/trio performances are encouraged, but we welcome all ages, all instruments, and all types of music. Bands are welcome but must be acoustic.   Last updated 10/4/2013
Grapevine Restaurant, 26 Congress St., Salem, MA 01970. Host Julie Dougherty. Sign up starts at 7:00 PM, open mic runs 7:30-10:30, feature at 9. The open mike will start with 2 songs each. There will be, says the host, "a special 'open-mic menu' that will be wallet-friendly, as well as the Grapevine's regular dinner menu, which is great.... full bar, incredible wine selection, nice atmosphere and friendly staff and hostess! What more could you want?"   Last updated 3/15/2014

Fridays
Vanilla Bean Cafe, Pomfret, CT. Hosts Faith Montaperto and Kala Farnham. First Friday of each month. Sign up starts at 6:30 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.   Last updated 11/17/2013
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
Last verified 11/17/2013
[Check]Church Street Coffeehouse, First United Methodist Church, 25 Church St., Warren, RI. Host Rick Norman. Music from 7 to 10 PM. Feature from 8 to 8:45 PM. $2 cover, pass the hat for the feature. Doors open and sign-up starts at 6:30. Saith the organizers: "We have freshly brewed coffee, hot chocolate, assorted teas, and tasty pastries to choose from." This open mike used to be at the Coffee Depot before 2015.   Last updated 10/13/2016
The Mill Fudge Factory, 2 Central St., Bristol, NH. Host Steve Furbish. Music from 7:30 - 9:30. 15 minute slots. Specialty coffee and homemade ice cream. My spy says, "Nice small performance space and good listening audience." venue: (603) 744-0405 Last updated 11/17/2013
Parish Hall Open Stage @ Peterborough Unitarian Universalist Church, 25 Main St., Peterborough, NH 03458. Host Jack Kid. First Friday of each month, except for July and August. Sign up at 7:00 PM, music from 7:30 to 10:00 PM. There is a feature. Musicians and spoken word artists welcome. There's a grand piano. $5 cover. Jack says: "We provide sound, mics, piano etc. Baked goods and beverages. It's a listening room with a lot of ambience. All acoustic music/styles are welcome and also, spoken word, comics, magicians. Percussion ok, but no drum sets and no electric rock guitars." host: jackkidmusic@gmail.com, 603-831-1875 Last updated 9/21/2014
[Check]Jam'n Java @ Kickstand Cafe, 594 Mass Ave., Arlington, MA. First Friday of each month. 6:45 PM to 9:30 PM. Performers can sign up in advance via email, or at the door. All are welcome. Admission is free. Show up between 6 and 6:30 to sign up at the door; if there aren't any slots remaining, you're guaranteed a slot for the next month. venue: arl.open.mic@gmail.com Last updated 9/20/2019
Sunapee Community Coffee House @ Sunapee Methodist Church, 17 Lower Main St., Sunapee, NH. Host Al Carruth. Last Friday of each month. except the summer. The coffeehouse books shows on the other Fridays, but this last Friday is an open mike. Sign up on site with the host for your 15 minutes or three songs. Storytellers also welcome. (This has been going on for years, and somehow I missed it.)   Last updated 1/30/2011
Last verified 11/17/2013
Georgetown VFW Post 7608, 435 Andover St., Georgetown, MA. Every Friday from 7:00 - 10:30 PM.   Last updated 5/20/2011
Last verified 11/17/2013
Meeting House Stage @ Rindge Meeting House, 6 Payson Hill Rd., Rindge, NH. Host David Lister. Second Friday of each month. Doors open at 6:30, music from 7:00 until 10:00. Music, poetry, spoken word. 3 songs or 15 minutes, whichever comes first. Sign-up is first come, first served. A $5 donation is suggested to help support the Rindge Historical Society. Drinks and a variety of baked goods are available. There is a feature. venue: David Lister at dhlister@gmail.com
host: dhlister@gmail.com
Last updated 12/21/2012
Last verified 4/8/2017
Bestseller's Cafe, 24 High St., Medford, MA. Hosts Matt BenDaniel and Two Tone Caddy (David Newey & Michele Saveio). Third Friday of each month. Sign up starts at 6:30, music starts at 7:00 and goes until 10:00. Currently there is no feature but that may change in the future. 2 songs, sometimes more. This is a bookstore with a food counter serving sandwiches, pastries and coffee, tea, etc.   Last updated 9/21/2014
Chaibo, 37 Boulder Dr., Fitchburg, MA. Music from 7:00pm-11:00pm. All ages, music abilities and instrument types (guitar, bongos, violin, harmonica etc…).   Last updated 1/11/2015
HJT Arts Center (venue), 265 Sisson Rd., Harwich Center, MA 02671. Host Kathleen Healy. First Friday of the month. Music from 7 to 10. There is a feature. Musicians, artists, short dramatic pieces, poetry, spoken word, rap, dance, music, or other talent all welcome. Proceeds benefit the HJT scholarship fund.   Last updated 1/11/2015
More Than Words Bookstore & Cafe, 376 Moody St., Waltham, MA. Host Jamie McCoy. Third Friday of each month. No cover. 2 songs. Sign up at 7, music at 8.   Last updated 1/11/2015
Serendipity Cafe, 1 Nason St., Maynard, MA. Music from 7 - 10 PM, except for the first Friday which is a special youth open mike from 7 - 9. You can sign up in advance at the venue's Web site.   Last updated 11/15/2015
[Check]First Friday Open Mike @ Hopkinton Center for the Arts, 98 Hayden Rowe St. , Hopkinton, MA. Host Jack Byrne. Jack Byrne hosts this monthly mike on the first Friday of each month. This is a great listening room, and the first time I attended, there were tons of listeners there. Lots of snacks, a brand new beautiful building. Signup starts at 7, music from 7:30 to 90. There is a feature. $5 at the door, free to HCA members.   Last updated 9/20/2019
Sam's Pizzeria, 235 Main St., Northampton, MA. Hosts Bill McNally and Burrie Jenkins. This open mike has been going on since 2007, and I found out about it 10 years later. Sigh. Music from 8 to midnight. There's also rumored to be an open mike here on the second and fourth Thursdays, but it's not on the venue's Web or Facebook pages.   Last updated 4/8/2017
Groton Grange Open Mic @ Groton Grange, 80 Champney St., Groton, MA. Last Friday of each month. Doors open at 6:30 pm to settle in and socialize. Music starts at 7, feature at 8, ends at 11. Musicians and listeners welcome. Sign up at the Web site a week in advance (wait for the announcement!). Admission is $5, $3 for students. This is a two-song open mike. venue: Aisling & Todd at aislingmusic@gmail.com Last updated 11/2/2018

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
Last verified 1/1/2014
Mickey Cassidy's, 116 Main Street (Rte. 109), Medway, MA. Music starts at 8:30.   Last updated 11/21/2009
Last verified 1/1/2014
[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. This has apparently been going on for ages, and I only found out about it in 2006. 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
Last verified 1/1/2014
Catbird Coffeehouse, 500 Columbian St., South Weymouth, MA. Music from 4 to 7 PM. venue: (781) 682-4878 Last updated 1/1/2014
West Roxbury Open Mike @ Theodore Parker Church Parish Hall, 1859 Centre Street (enter on Corey St.), West Roxbury, MA. Open mike is held on the last Saturday of each month. Registration begins at 7 and the music starts at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Admission is $5 per person, $10 for families of any size. There is a feature. Send email if you want to sign up in advance. Open mike is held on the last Saturday of each month. Registration begins at 7 and the music starts at 7:30 p.m. Say the organizers: "We're open to all genres: originals, jazz, classical, folk songs, poetry, rock, blues, rap, Broadway, cabaret, comedy routines, impressions, improvisational theater, or dance. We have a baby grand piano (and a pianist), a sound system, and a stage." A donation of $5 per person is requested, $10 for families of any size. Send email if you'd like to sign up in advance. venue: Dexter Edge at dexedge@gmail.com Last updated 4/8/2011
Last verified 1/1/2014
NU Cafe, 335 Chandler St., Worcester, MA. Host Steve Wright. Music from 6:00 to 9:00. Open to musicians, poets, comedians or anyone with a talent.   Last updated 9/21/2014
Brandy Pete's (venue), 267 Franklin St., Boston, MA. Host Cory Allen Staats. Every Saturday night. Sign up at 7 PM. You can get a video or audio recording of your set from the host for a nominal fee. See the event URL for a Facebook link to sign up in advance. No cover. Family-oriented, so keep it clean, folks.   Last updated 11/14/2014
Polish American Citizen's Club, 171 Kendell Pond Road West, Gardner, MA 01440. Every Saturday night in the PACC members' lounge. You needn't be a member to come sing, play or listen. All are welcome for member prices with drink specials. Come around to the members' door under the small canvas canopy and ring the bell. Starts about 8pm. The sound man will record a CD of your set for a few bucks if you're interested.   Last updated 1/11/2015
Spireside Coffee House & Open Mic @ United Church of Christ, 6 Stark Highway North, Dunbarton, NH, MA 03046. Third Saturday of the month. Doors open for signup at 7 PM, random draw, music starts at 7:30. There is a feature. Musicians, poets and storytellers are welcome. Coffee, tea, soup and snacks are available. $5.00 suggested donation at the door. Event is held in the church vestry building. I know, they call it an "open mic"; forgive them, for they know not what they do :-). venue: Lizz at lizz@dccucc.org Last updated 1/11/2015
North Reading Community Coffeehouse @ Flint Memorial Library, 147 Park St., North Reading, MA. Host Art Grossman. Third Saturday of each month, so far, but check the Web site. From the Web site: "Even if you are not a performer but if you and/or your family are looking for a fun night of entertainment and want to be part of a judgement-free, receptive audience then the North Reading Community Coffeehouse is what you are looking for. There is no cover charge but through optional donations and the sale of refreshments we raise money for the town library via the Friends of the Library." Contact the host if you're interested in performing. host: abgrossman1@gmail.com Last updated 4/5/2018
Dragonfly Sessions Open Mic @ Dragonfly Garden Cafe, 3 Lancaster Ave., Lunenburg, MA. Last Saturday of each month, looks like. 2 to 5 PM. Sign up by phone, in person, or Facebook message. 15 minute sets. venue: 978-403-5182 Last updated 11/2/2018
Audiovisual Open Mic @ BMC @ Boston Media Center (venue), 9 Lexington St., Belmont, MA 02478. Host Jeremy Meserve. This monthly open mike happens in Studio A, from 11 AM to 3 PM, on the second Saturday of the month. It's broadcast live on Belmont TV and on Facebook Live. Singers, musicians, authors, poets, and more are invited to sign up for 15 minute slots to perform on the BMC stage. Performances are recorded and uploaded to BMC's YouTube Channel.   Last updated 9/20/2019

Sundays
The Rhumb Line, 40 Railroad Ave., Gloucester, MA. Hosts AnnMarie and Dan King. Last Sunday of the month. Music from 8 to 11 PM. venue: (978) 283-9732 Last updated 1/1/2014
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
Last verified 1/1/2014
[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
Last verified 1/1/2014
Sunset Grill, 2092 US Rt. 3, Campton, NH 03223. Intimate bar with regular crowd. Music from 8 PM to 12 PM. venue: (603) 726-3108 Last updated 2/26/2004
Last verified 1/1/2014
6B Lounge (venue), 6 Beacon St., Boston, MA. Host Maxwell Bailey. Sign up in advance on the Facebook page via the first link. Music starts at 8 PM. Musicians, poets and comedians are welcome. No cover. People under 21 are allowed. venue: (617) 742-0306 Last updated 9/22/2017
[Check]Walnut St. Coffee Cafe, 157 Walnut St., Lynn, MA 01905. Host Kirsten Manville. Sign up at 7, music starts at 7:30. Feature at 8:45 for 45 minutes. 2 songs. Mostly music, but spoken word also welcome. Beer, wine, coffee, tea, and sandwiches available, plus a room away from the music if you want to schmooze (a big plus in my book).   Last updated 9/20/2019
Fireside Coffeehouse @ Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 24 Berwick St., Norwood, MA. Host John Zaia. Occasional Sundays from 2 to 4 PM. It's an open mike for musical solo acts, duos and trios, plus a half hour feature act. The venue is lovely. There's a real working fireplace directly behind the stage, and it's a nice listening crowd. $5 donation goes to a church music fund. Signup in advance by email. More info and dates at the Web site. Two songs per act, more if time allows. venue: firesidecoffeehouse@gmail.com Last updated 11/23/2016
Blackthorne Publick House, 402 Turnpike St., South Easton, MA 02375. Hosts Andrew Lewis and Christine Cummings. Every Sunday afternoon. Sign up at 12:30, music from 1 - 4. All levels welcome. There is a feature. venue: 508-297-2236 Last updated 11/15/2015
Midway or the Highway @ Midway Cafe (venue), 3496 Washington Street, Jamaica Plain, MA. Hosts Angela Sawyer and Gabe Stoddard. Every Sunday from 9 PM to 1:30 AM. Says the host: "Comedy, music, poetry, crazy skits, rants, showing off your paintings, burlesque dances, and other unknown arts of all sorts welcome. Things that don't naturally end (like comedy) get 5 minutes. Things that do end (like songs or poems) get 2 things. There's a PA, 2 microphones, 2 1/4 inch jacks. We can't quite support a full band, because setup time comes out of your time. But volume is not a problem. Every once in a while a major holiday gives most people a 3 day weekend, and at those times we move the event to Monday." venue: midwayorthehighway@gmail.com, (617) 524-9038 Last updated 11/15/2015
Crow's Nest Pub and Grill, 181 Plaistow Rd. (Rte. 125 North), Plaistow, NH. Host David Thompson. Every other Sunday evening. Sign up at 5:30, music from 6 to 9. venue: (603) 974-1686 Last updated 10/13/2016

Various
Full Moon Open Mic @ Brewster Ladies' Library (venue), 1822 Main St., Brewster, MA. Host David Roth. This open mike is arranged around the host's touring schedule. It's held on, well, any night in a month that has a full moon, says the host. It's free, but accepts donations to local charities. Best way to hear about the event is to sing up for the event email list, I'm betting. Sign up is at 6:30.   Last updated 10/4/2013
Danvers Cable Access Studios, 87 Elm St., Danvers, MA. Host Dan Tremblay. Monthly, random dates. All levels of performers, musicians, dancers, poets, storytellers, comics. host: dh.tremblay@outlook.com, (978) 777-2711 Last updated 11/23/2016

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.