2. Huey Lewis & The News
The hitlist for Huey Lewis reads like a bad greeting card (“I Want a New Drug,” “Power of Love,” “Back in Time”) but if you can get past the ’80s cheese, this show is guaranteed to turn any frown upsidedown. June 21 at 7pm. Tickets $41- $76, (18+). Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, Hampton, NH, 603-929- 4100, casinoballroom.com.
3. Vince Gill
This Country Music Hall of Famer and Grammy Awardwinner comes to town with plenty of lively tunes and good times. June 10 at 8pm. Tickets $48-$58. Lowell Memorial Auditorium, Lowell, 978- 454-2299, lowellauditorium.com.
4. Independence Day in Salem
Head to the Witch City for fireworks over Derby Wharf along with kids activities,, and opening ceremonies with Mayor Kimberly Driscoll, the Salem Police Color Guard. July 4 beginning at 4pm. Derby Wharf, Salem, 978-745-9595, salem.com.
5. Marblehead to Halifax Ocean
Race 2009 Sailors compete in five divisions, racing 360 nautical miles beginning in Marblehead on an Atlantic journey north to Halifax Harbor. July 5-8, race begins at 11am. Marblehead Harbor, 781-631- 3100, marbleheadtohalifax.com.
6. Joe Cocker
It’s common knowledge that this rock legend gets by with a little help from his friends but this big question is, will you? July 7 at 8pm. Tickets, $41-$86, (18+). Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, Hampton, NH, 603-929- 4100, casinoballroom.com.
7. Newburyport Riverfront
Festival It’s one of the biggest events of the summer and it’s always a good time with food and live music. July 11 from 3pm-7pm. Waterfront Park, Downtown Newburyport, 978-374-4733, wxrv.com.
8. Reid’s Ride–Bike-a-thon
The 5th anniversary will take place across several North Shore towns, pedaling in a fight against cancer. Proceeds benefit the Reid Sacco Cancer Research Fund. July 19. Stage Fort Park, Gloucester, 781- 632-2025, reidsride.org.