Harvard Square Beginnings
Harvard Square began in 1630 as the Colonial village of Newtowne, which was chosen by the Proprietors of Massachusetts Bay to be the capital of their new colony. The village was the first planned town in English North America, and the streets laid out in 1631 are still in use today. Important structures survive from almost every period since the early 18th century. In few New England cities are the connections to the early years of settlement so apparent to present-day observers, or so threatened by intense pressure for development.
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Harvard Square Today
The nearby museums and theaters, as well as the character of the area, remain throughout the year, but the best time to see Harvard Square is from late spring to early fall. Sidewalk performers bring the street corners to life. Musicians, magicians, and others - some of whom with great talent - entertain the crowds who make their way to the busy center on warm evenings. You'll find jugglers, bands, folk singers, or jazz musicians. Some of the performers you watch may be destined for greater things someday. Joan Baez and Tracy Chapman both got their start performing in the Harvard Square area.
Annual events include MayFair in the spring, Octoberfest in the fall, and in June, the Cambridge River Festival, which is held along Memorial Drive outside of the square. When there's not a big event such as those planned, there's still plenty to do. You can spend the afternoon shopping, exploring the historic sites, taking a tour of an art exhibit, and eating at one of the Harvard diners or nicer restaurants. The early evenings are good for getting an ice cream or coffee and walking around the square watching the street performers who are out during the summer months. And for the late nights, there are theater, film, jazz clubs and sports bars all near by.
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