(MyKeeneNow) – As summer draws to a close, the region is bursting with vibrant cultural and community events this weekend. Here are some highlights:

XFEST Improvisational Challenge

  • Dates: Friday, Aug. 16, 2024, 5-11 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, noon-11 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, noon-5 p.m.
  • Location: 118 Elliot, 118 Elliot St., Brattleboro
  • Cost: Free (Suggested donation: $20)
  • Description: More than 60 musicians, artists, dancers, poets, and multimedia creators will gather for a weekend of creativity and collaboration. The immersive event features performances and workshops, offering a dynamic and interactive experience. xfestma.com.

NEYT Presents: Three Jokes By Chekhov

  • Dates: Friday, Aug. 16, 2024, 6-8 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, 2-4 p.m. & 6-8 p.m.
  • Location: New England Youth Theatre, 100 Flat St., Brattleboro
  • Cost: $10-$15 (Tickets available at the door)
  • Description: Enjoy a series of three comedic one-act plays by Anton Chekhov, performed by the students of the Summer Classics camp. Directed by Ben Stockman, with assistance from Jim Maxwell, the performances promise a delightful exploration of human nature through humor. www.neyt.org

Walden Whitham at The Park Theatre

  • Date: Friday, Aug. 16, 2024, 6 p.m.
  • Location: The Park Theatre, 19 Main St., Jaffrey
  • Description: Multi-talented musician Walden Whitham will deliver an evening of soulful music and storytelling, blending original compositions with classic tunes. This event is the first of three scheduled performances this year. theparktheatre.org.

Bandwagon Summer Series: Myra Flynn

  • Date: Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, 6 p.m.
  • Location: Cooper Field, 41 Sand Hill Road, Putney
  • Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the gate (Children under 12 free)
  • Description: Vermont native and acclaimed singer/songwriter Myra Flynn will perform her unique blend of indie/soul music. Known for her powerful vocals and evocative lyrics, Flynn’s performance is sure to captivate the audience. www.nextstagearts.org

Music Under The Stars: Keith Murphy, Becky Tracy, Katie McNally & Neil Pearlman

  • Date: Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
  • Location: Retreat Farm, 45 Farmhouse Square, Brattleboro
  • Cost: Free (Donations welcome)
  • Description: The Brattleboro Music Center concludes its summer series with a concert featuring a talented ensemble of folk musicians. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy the music under the stars. www.bmcvt.org

Eileen Ivers

  • Date: Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, 7-9:30 p.m.
  • Location: The Park Theatre, 19 Main St., Jaffrey
  • Cost: $35 in advance, $40 day of show
  • Description: Grammy-winning violinist Eileen Ivers, often called “the Jimi Hendrix of the violin,” will bring her electrifying performance to Jaffrey. Known for her groundbreaking work in Celtic and World music, Ivers promises an unforgettable evening. www.theparktheatre.org 

Isness Ensemble and The Best Revenge

  • Date: Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, 7:30-10:30 p.m.
  • Location: Mole Hill Theatre, 803 Gilsum Mine Road, Alstead
  • Cost: Suggested donation of $15
  • Description: Enjoy a night of rock ‘n’ roll with performances by the Isness Ensemble and The Best Revenge. This event is a fundraiser to help the theater purchase a new sound system. As always, it’s BYOB and snacks. More details can be found on the Mole Hill Theatre Facebook page.

Stonewall Farm Turns 30

  • Date: Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, 12:30-6 p.m.
  • Location: Stonewall Farm, Keene
  • Cost: $10 general admission ($5 for kids 12 and under, children under 3 free); $35 Beer Garden Combo
  • Description: Celebrate 30 years of sustainable farming with a day of fun activities at Stonewall Farm. The festival features farming demonstrations, live music, artisan markets, and a beer garden. www.stonewallfarm.org