The 2026 Event
Planning for the 2026 event is underway. The committee is shaping the day with the same focus as last year, keeping space for folklore, history, and local arts. The confirmed date for 2026 is Sunday, October 4.
The day will begin at 10:00 am with a special worship service that is open to all, including those of any faith or no faith at all. The Devil's Footprint community program will begin at 11:00 am outside on Meetinghouse Green with food, music, history, and more.
The tentative program is listed below. Community groups interested in hosting a table or offering a short activity can reach out any time.
RSVP for Oct. 4, 2026
The Devils Footprint Annual Event is a free community celebration of Ipswich folklore, history, arts, and storytelling. Join us on Sunday, October 4, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Meeting House Green at First Church in Ipswich, UCC, 1 Meetinghouse Green, Ipswich, Massachusetts. Reserve a free RSVP ticket to help us plan for attendance. No payment is required. Guests may make an optional donation to support the event.
Devils Footprint Annual Event
Sunday, October 4, 2026
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Meeting House Green
First Church in Ipswich, UCC
Throughout the Day
• Visit the Devils Footprint.
• Learn about the geology of the footprint and the surrounding rock.
• Explore the history of North Congregational Church and the many versions of the Devils Footprint story.
• Visit historical displays and community information tables.
• Talk with historians, storytellers, artists, and members of the Devils Footprint team.
• Enjoy informal activities throughout Meeting House Green.
The event is free and open to the public.
The rock is still there. The story is still told.
— October 4, 2026
Event Schedule
11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Live Music
Join us on Meeting House Green as the day begins with live music.
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Devils Footprint Discussion Panel
A community discussion exploring the history and folklore of the Devils Footprint and the 2026 theme, Revolution.
1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Live Music and Open Time
Enjoy more live music while visiting the footprint, exploring displays, talking with presenters, and spending time on Meeting House Green.
2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Writing Competition
Celebrate local writers and new interpretations of the Devils Footprint. Selected writers from the 2026 Writing Competition will share work inspired by the theme, Revolution.
3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Devils Footprint Puppet Show
A new interpretation of the Devils Footprint legend, performed through puppetry, storytelling, and a little audience participation.
4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Live Music and Closing
Stay for music, conversation, and a final chance to explore the event before the celebration closes at 5:00 p.m.
— FIND US
Where is the Footprint?
One Meetinghouse Green, Ipswich, MA 01938
Help Keep the Devils Footprint Free
$10.00
PARKING & DIRECTIONS
Getting Here and Parking
The Devil’s Footprint Annual Event takes place on Meeting House Green in historic downtown Ipswich, Massachusetts, beside First Church in Ipswich, UCC.
Event Location
First Church in Ipswich, UCC
1 Meetinghouse Green
Ipswich, MA 01938
Google Maps Plus Code: M5J7+PG Ipswich, Massachusetts
Parking
Parking on and around Town Hill is limited. Visitors are encouraged to use the public Hammatt Street Parking Lot and walk to Meeting House Green.
Hammatt Street Parking Lot
16 Hammatt Street
Ipswich, MA 01938
Google Maps Plus Code: M5H6+W7 Ipswich, Massachusetts
Please follow all posted parking signs and restrictions.
Coming by Train
Ipswich is served by the MBTA Commuter Rail on the Newburyport and Rockport Line. The Ipswich station is located in downtown Ipswich within walking distance of the event.
Ipswich Commuter Rail Station
4 Peatfield Street
Ipswich, MA 01938
Google Maps Plus Code: M5G5+PQ Ipswich, Massachusetts
We encourage visitors who can travel by commuter rail to consider leaving the car at home. Downtown parking is limited, and the station provides an easy way to reach the event without having to find parking on Town Hill.