Looking for a mid-week creative spark? Join us at the Sawyer Free Library this January for Studio SFL, a visual arts series presented in collaboration with the Gloucester Center for the Arts. This partnership brings together local artistic expertise and our beautiful new library space to help you explore your creative side. Guided by professional artists, you’ll dive into a different medium each week.
January Schedule:
Blockprinting: January 7, we’ll be exploring the basics of blockprinting using materials you can find in your own kitchen: styrofoam! Design your own basic image, “carve” it into styrofoam, and make your very own print in this two-hour workshop. Register here: sawyerfreelibrary.org
Found object collages: January 15, play with found objects to design new, original collages. Bring items with you that you want to include –magazines, small tchotchkes, fabric scraps, and other small mostly flat items– or dig through the materials provided. Register here: sawyerfreelibrary.org
Quilting:January 21, dive into the world of fabric by making your own experimental quilt squares. Using hand-sewing and found fabric, each participant will be invited to lay out and sew their own individual squares. Try your hand at a more traditional geometric pattern or go free-form with abstract shapes and lines. Register here: sawyerfreelibrary.org
Stained Glass:January 28, create an original faux stained glass artwork using plexiglass. Design your work by drawing on paper and then bring it to life with transparent paints and markers. Hold it up to the sun to see the light shine through your new masterpiece. Register here: sawyerfreelibrary.org
Gloucester Center for the Arts (GloArts) is a new vision for a multidisciplinary arts center based in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Our mission is to celebrate and strengthen the creative community of Gloucester by supporting professional artists, providing multidisciplinary arts education and programs, and investing in affordable creative spaces. Learn more at http://www.gloarts.org.
This annual event brings over 2,000 people to the downtown area each January to shop at local stores, enjoy family friendly activities, visit the Museum Courtyard, and find each of the ice sculptures sponsored by local cultural institutions and businesses.
Gloucester’s So Salty will take place on Saturday, January 24 and Sunday, January 25, 2026 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm!
Activities and Performances
Ice Sculptures, Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
While the downtown Museum is temporarily closed for renovations, we welcome you to visit us at the CAM Tent in the Museum’s Courtyard to grab a Brochure map of the weekend’s activities and find all the ice sculptures downtown (Hint, three are right by the tent in the Courtyard!).
Sea Shanties, Saturday, January 24, 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Sea Shanties performed by Three Sheets to the Wind. Free and open to the public. Unitarian Universalist Church of Gloucester, Middle Street, Gloucester.
Meet Mayor Lundberg who will be reading Katy and the Big Snow, by Virginia Lee Burton, at 1:00 p.m. and enjoy free children’s activities and crafts on Saturday with Open Door and Pathways of Gloucester. Free and Open to the Public.
Sawyer Free Library: All events are open to all ages, families and community members!
Saturday 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. on the Second Floor (Children’s Department): Frozen Fun with Elsa: Elsa’s Frozen Ice & Snow show brings stories and the science of ice together for a fun morning of learning for children!
Saturday 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. on the Main Floor (Reading Lounge): Live Music Trio featuring a variety of wintertime fun including Gershwin, Disney, some folk tunes, and classics
Saturday 1:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m. on the Main Floor (Reading Lounge): Mayor Lundberg reads Katy and the Big Snow by Virginia Lee Burton
Saturday 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. on the Ground Floor (Community Room): Get Salty with fellow Community Partners! The Open Door hosts Crispy Chickpeas (includes samples!!!) and Pathways for Children offers Salt Art Snowflakes (colored salt and glue of pre-cut snowflake shapes).
Businesses Downtown
Check individual locations for days and times including listings for Special Offers as well as Family Friendly Activities!
The Bookstore of GloucesterFestive window display, 10% off select Salty books, and special ‘salty’ candles for sale courtesy of A Tale of Two Candles! Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. & Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 61 Main St.
Floating Lotus All weekend: 10% Off storewide. Join us for a Drumming Class: Primal Roots Drumming on Sunday, Jan 25th, 1:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the store. (Bring your own drum or rent one! For tickets visit: www.floatinglotus.net/products/primal-roots-drum. 169 Main Street.
Gloucester Lyceum & Sawyer Free Library Sawyer SATURDAY: Free events and activities! 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.: Frozen Fun with Elsa: Elsa’s Frozen Ice & Snow show brings stories and the science of ice together for a fun morning of learning for children! 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. on the Main Floor: Live Music Trio featuring a variety of wintertime fun including Gershwin, Disney, folk tunes, and classics, 1:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.: Mayor Lundberg reads Katy and the Big Snow by Virginia Lee Burton, 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.: Get Salty with crafts by The Open Door and Pathways for Children. 2 Dale Avenue.
Dogtown BooksCreate your own Salty poetry, expressions or silly phrases on our front window! Saturdayand Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 132 Main St.
Fireflies Boutique Stop in for piece of Saltwater Taffy, free, at Fireflies Boutique. 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Saturday & Sunday, 100 Main St.
Cape Ann Olive Oil 20% off on all salts and salt related products. Saturday & Sunday, 10-:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 57 Main St.
Design of Mine, a local boutique, 40% Off storewide Saturday & Sunday, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 33 Main St.
Sweats of Gloucester 20% off storewide Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., 85 Main Street.
Saluti and The Salted Cod After you find all the ice sculptures, come to Saluti, Gloucester’s new wine bar, located at the end of Main Street and enjoy a $5 mug of mulled wine or spiked cider! Good all weekend, 12:00 p.m. to closing. 272 Main Street. Offer also available at the Salted Cod on Rocky Neck (53 Rocky Neck Ave.)
Pop Gallery will be serving up Sales & Ales, warming libations and featuring some fun new looks as well as a Gloucester-So-Salty Raffle prize. Saturday, 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., 67 Main St.
Local Colors Come paint salt dough fish, while supplies last; see and shop work by local artists too! Saturday & Sunday, 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., 121 Main St.
Design of Mine 40% Off storewide, All Weekend. 33 Main St.
Happy Tails Shoppe 10% Off All Dog & Cat Treats. Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., 186 Main St.
Masshole & Co Pet Provisions Special:Doggie “Pawgaritas” – $1 with any purchase! A cucumber-based drink topped with whipped cream that pups can’t resist. Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., 137 Main St.
Mark Adrian Shoes Icy, salty streets getting you down? Stay safe, dry, warm and fabulous in new winter boots! Lots on sale! Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., 103 Main St.
Gloucester Apparel and Pat Ds Photos Buy-3, Get-One-Free Hat Sale! Includes Fleece Lined Caps. Pat D’s Photos: All notecards $3 each and large banner flags discounted to $25. Plus – free Salted Caramels 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. each day. 44A Main St., in between the Cave and Caffe Sicilia.
The Dress Code Stop by The Dress Code to warm up and enjoy 20% Off winter coats! Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 159 Main St.
Joe’s Fresh Fish Prints Come check out Fish Printing Demonstrations from 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m., 6 Main St.
Castaways Vintage Café $2 Salted Caramel lattes!! Saturday & Sunday, 6:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m., 65 Main St.
Sample This Winter Sale! Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., 123 Main St.
Cape Ann Lanes/Laneside Pub & Brewery Special Offer! Buy-1, Get-one-free hot cocoa in our Winter Wonderland Beer Garden OR 10% off bowling and food after 4:00 p.m. Offer good all weekend! 53 Gloucester Ave.
Pre-Salty! GLO-ARTs – Make Your Own Ice Sculpture, A Children’s Program
Join Sawyer Free Library and Gloucester Center for the Arts (GloArts) to make a collaborative ice sculpture for the 5th Annual Gloucester So Salty Festival! We’ll be making elements for the collaborative ice sculpture using food coloring, natural plants, and more. We’ll also talk about how to assemble our final sculpture. Once the elements freeze, you’re invited to come back on Friday, January 23 from 2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. to help put out our ice sculpture art installation outside the library! Patrons ages 11-19 (grades 6-12) are welcome to participate in this event. Space is limited, so registration is required.
Saturday, January 17, 1:30—3:30 p.m.
Sawyer Free Library, 2 Dale Avenue, Gloucester
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Day #1 of my bridge construction experience was fairly seamless. I dropped Finn off at Gloucester High School (just a few more weeks until he has his license!) and sat at a red light for just about a minute before being able to turn left off the boulevard to the HS. Leaving the HS traffic was backed up on Centennial just a bit….but again, no big deal. As my luck would have it, the light turned red again just before it was my turn to turn back onto the boulevard so that the one-way traffic headed over the bridge could commence for those waiting on the other side. I had to sit again for just a couple of minutes and then continued on my way. I need to remember to reroute myself going forward and I’m guessing things will be worse on other days and at other times….but, so far so good. And, you can’t beat the view while “stuck.” Given that we’re all used to sitting at the bridge all summer long, this is just par for the course….for drivers anyway. Boat traffic is a different issue.
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I was unexpectedly alone for lunch recently and decided to stop by Kings Roast Beef on Main St. I got a Junior Three Way and a chef salad for later. The sandwich was message, but outstanding. Mostly though, take note of this GIANT chef salad covered in yummy roast beef. It’s priced on the high side but totally still a value since Jim and I each got dinner out of it. Joey joined me shortly and enjoyed his own meal but I think this chef salad gets a chef’s kiss!
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Please join Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute (GMGI) and Schooner Adventure on Thursday, January 15th at GMGI, for an evening exploring the city’s maritime past, present, and future.
From Sea to Shore: Gloucester’s Fishing & Foodways Through Time will examine the enduring relationship between sea and shore, from historic schooners and traditional fishing practices to leveraging marine genomic research to support sustainable fisheries.
Click the link below for more information and to register for this free event!
Featured Speakers: Tim O’Donnell, GMGI Research Scientist Emma Strand, Ph.D., GMGI Staff Scientist Justin Demitri, Historian and Author on Gloucester Fishing Heritage Emily Pearce, Executive Director, Schooner Adventure
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We are so proud of Katelyn for receiving this glowing review. It takes a specific level of expertise and creativity to impress a client who has been buying and selling for 40 years. Katelyn brings immense value to the table, mastering the modern tools of virtual marketing while maintaining incredible communication.
“I have been in the real estate business for almost 40 years buying, selling and leasing both commercial and residential properties. Working with Katelyn has easily been the best experience I have ever had working with a real estate broker. She adds a lot of value to the process.
For years I have been trying to find a broker who understood the value of today’s virtual marketing and had the tools to do it. Not only does she understand the value it can bring to marketing a property, a lot of it she can do herself, which has a lot of intrinsic value. Great work ethic, extremely creative, smart and always, always provides great communication.”
Steve, Seller
Looking to make move? Reach out to Katelyn Foley Ciaramitaro today. ❤️🗝️ (978) 473-0922
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Need Better Sleep? CBD and CBN may help with their remarkable sleep promoting properties!
When it comes to sleep, not all cannabinoids are created equal. However, here are three cannabinoids that may influence your sleep patterns:
CBD CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound popular for its potential therapeutic benefits. One of its well-studied properties is its anti-inflammatory effect. It also possesses remarkable sleep-promoting properties due to its ability to calm the mind and body.
CBD also doesn’t make you high. Instead, it helps you relax and unwind, which could prove beneficial if you struggle with falling and staying asleep. Research suggests that CBD may help reduce anxiety, which can be a major barrier to falling asleep.
CBN CBN (cannabinol), on the other hand, is a mildly psychoactive compound that forms when THC breaks down. It is known as the “sleepy cannabinoid in old weed” because users claim it induces sedation, which helps them to sleep.
Like CBD, CBN is often touted for its potential sedative effects. Some users report that CBN helps them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. However, research on CBN’s sleep-promoting effects is limited, and more studies are needed to confirm its efficacy.
THC THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It can induce feelings of sleepiness and help you fall asleep faster. However, long-term, heavy use of THC may have drawbacks.
While it might help you fall asleep initially, it can alter your sleep cycles over time. Indeed, studies suggest that regular heavy THC use may reduce the duration of REM sleep, which is vital for memory consolidation and cognitive function.
If you’re considering using cannabinoids for sleep, it’s worth exploring products that combine different compounds. After all, researchers think when cannabis compounds work together, they enhance their overall therapeutic value due to the entourage effect.
While research is ongoing, many users report positive effects on their sleep patterns when using CBN.
CBN may reduce sleep disturbance and nighttime awakening, helping you fall asleep faster. This can be particularly beneficial if you struggle with racing thoughts or anxiety at bedtime.
Sleep duration is another area where CBN might offer benefits. It might improve overall sleep quality by increasing the time spent in deep, restorative sleep stages, which are crucial for physical recovery and cognitive function.
Our CBD Sleep Gummies combine CBN (5mg) with CBD (30mg) to enhance sleep-promotion. They are also melatonin-free, so they don’t disrupt your body’s natural production of the hormone.
Instead, they work naturally with your system to help regulate your circadian rhythm. We recommend that you take them consistently to enjoy high-quality sleep from now on.⃰
How Does CBN Work as a Sleep Aid? CBN primarily binds to CB1 receptors in the brain and central nervous system. This interaction is thought to be behind CBN’s ability to promote sleep.
This cannabinoid may also offer pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory benefits, indirectly improving sleep quality. Chronic pain and inflammation often disrupt sleep patterns, so addressing these issues may lead to more restful nights.
Furthermore, by reducing anxiety—a common barrier to quality sleep—CBN could help you relax and fall asleep more easily. Anxiety is a known sleep disruptor, so keeping it in check undoubtedly enables you to sleep more easily.
Our CBD Gummies offer a blend of cannabinoids that may synergistically promote relaxation and better sleep. They are formulated to melt away feelings of worry, irritability, and negative outlooks.
Our industry-leading formula in these Gummies features ultra-calming cannabinoids CBG and CBN and a specially formulated de-stress blend of botanicals, including St. John’s Wort and chamomile to support mind and body relaxation and target feelings of anxiety for overall mood support. ⃰
Many users report positive experiences with CBN-infused products for sleep. However, everyone’s endocannabinoid system is unique, so you may need to experiment to find the right dosage for your needs.
Please visit us Fridays or Saturdays 11-4 at 12 Rogers Street Gloucester
Get a free consultation and grab some free samples and see for yourself if CBD can improve the quality of your life!
Several of us had a delicious brunch on Sunday at the Grove in Rowley. The Grove is located at the Briar Barn Inn. It is eloquently rustic and everything was wonderfully delicious. All necessary information can be found on their website here: https://groverowley.com/
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Kick off 2026 with a vibrant celebration of creativity at the Sawyer Free Library.
The Library’s Matz Gallery‘s Winter Exhibition Just Add Color brings brilliant hues and fresh energy to the gray winter months with an inspiring exhibition of original artwork by 30 talented local artists.
On view from January 4 through February 27, 2026, this joyful winter exhibition features nearly 50 unique works of art, all available for purchase. A portion of every sale directly supports education programs at the Sawyer Free Library, making this show a celebration of both art and community.
All are welcome at the Artist Reception on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. Meet the artists behind the work, explore the exhibition, and enjoy a vibrant evening of creativity and conversation.
Curated by Pat Alto and Jan Charles, Just Add Color participating artists include:
Pat Alto, Jackie Bennett, Coco Berkman, Linda Lea Bertrand, Ted Bidwell, Charles Browne, Beth Buckingham, Michele Champion, Janice Carragher Charles, Traci Thayne Corbett, Elli Crocker, Denise Delaney, Robert Dwelley, Barbe Ennis, Laurie Flemming, Maya Kline, Mary Lee, Bonita LeFlore, Kelle Louaillier, Lynn Maguire, Allison Moir-Smith, Claudia Morris, Jennifer Pinck, Holly Popeo, Jan Roy, Jim Seavey, Mike Shea, James Sheradin, Mike Storella, Rosemary Sullivan
Meet Isabelle! Your future sunshine companion. This 7-year-old girl is from Puerto Rico and is a ball of pure happiness and wiggle energy. Sweet, gentle, and endlessly affectionate, Isabelle is the kind of dog who happily follows you from room to room, rests her head on your lap, and fills your home with calm, comforting vibes. Puppyhood is in the rearview mirror, and Isabelle is living her best life with cozy beds, easygoing strolls, soothing voices, all the pets she can get. Isabelle can be selective with other dogs, and isn’t a fan of cats. She knows who she’s comfortable with, so she’ll thrive best as the only pet in the home-where she can feel safe, relaxed, and soak up all your attention (and yes, she loves being the center of it!).
Isabelle is considered special needs, but her medical considerations are very manageable. She has a mild heart murmur that currently requires no treatment-just a cardiology recheck in 9-12 months to keep an eye on things. She also previously had a benign facial mass (a trichoblastoma) that’s already been removed; no further treatment is needed, just simple monitoring to be sure it doesn’t return. Gentle, grateful, and full of love, Isabelle is ready to give boundless affection to the person who offers her the second chance she’s been patiently waiting for. Could that be you?
Great news! We’re running a New Year’s adoption special and waived the adoption fees for Isabelle until Monday 1/5, to help her find her forever home!
BreedChihuahua, Short Coat/Mix Age7 years 5 months 29 days GenderFemale SizeMedium ColorTan Spayed/NeuteredDeclawedNo HousetrainedYes Special NeedsNo DogsNo Cats
Thank you and Happy New Year!
______________________________________ Cape Ann Animal Aid
Christopher Cutler Rich Animal Shelter 4 Paws Lane Gloucester, MA 01930
Good Morning Gloucester 