First Friday Coffeehouse US Map & Phone & Address

First Friday Coffeehouse US Map & Phone & Address

First Congregational Church, 95 College Ave. Somerville; (617) 625-6485

With a name like First Friday, it’s not too hard to figure out when the door to this coffeehouse is open. From October to May, on (you guessed it) the first Friday of the month, FFC presents live, local folk music. The first part of each show is the designated open mike, with anywhere from five to seven acts. This is followed by the featured performer(s) to round the evening out. All tickets are $5, and refreshments are served.

Live at the Luthiers

99 Moody St. Waltham; (617) 894-4292

For those who are wondering: A luthier is someone who makes stringed instruments. Y’know, lutes. Here at the Luthier’s Workshop, that’s exactly what they do; but, they also present concerts featuring the results of their craftwork.

The musical styles vary widely, including Celtic, jazz, classical, a Banjo Bash, and even contra dancing. For a time these concerts were held on a weekly basis, but at the time of this writing they were being scaled back to once a month. Admission is generally $5. In addition, a fiddle club meets on Saturday afternoons for an informal jam session. Call for the latest scoop.

Unitarian Universalist Church, 28 Mugford St. Marblehead; (617) 631-8987

This one wins the award for longevity: me & thee has held monthly folk concerts for over 25 years, making it one of the staples on the coffeehouse circuit. Some of the musicians who’ve performed here over the years include Pete Seeger, Bill Staines, and Cheryl Wheeler. Lots of regulars in the crowd make for a strong feeling of camaraderie at these Friday evening shows. Admission is $6 to $10.