Five Things You Need to Know Today: April 6

1. Newton Open Studios. The annual Spring Open Studios will take place this weekend at 60 "pop-up" exhibits across the city. Roughly 180 Newton artists will be on display at these exhibits, which will be open from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Check out this story for more information and links to exhibit locations.

2. Highland Jazz 30th anniversary all-star gala. The Highland Jazz series is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year with an all-star gala tonight featuring vocalist Donna Byrne, Paul Broadnax, piano and vocals, George Garzone, saxophone, Greg Hopkins, trumpet, Yoron Israel, drums, John Lockwood, bass, Cercie Miller, saxophone, Jason Palmer, trumpet and Tim Ray, piano. The show starts at 8 p.m. at Newton South and tickets are $25 at the door.

3. Midwinter Coffeehouse. Folk and acoustic music will fill the First Unitarian Society in Newton this evening for the Midwinter (early spring?) Coffeehouse. The evening will include Oen Kennedy, emcee Eric Moore, Rob Siegel, Barb Cassidy, and other community members. Beer, wine and soft drinks will be available for sale along with light refreshments. Profits benefit the F.A. Day Middle School. Tickets are $25 at the door. (Adults over 21 only, please)

4. Congressman Kennedy office hours. U.S. Rep. Joe Kennedy III will hold office hours today in Newton at his district office on Crafts Street. The office hours will be held from 12:30 p.m. - 2 p.m. For more information, call 617-332-3333 or visit Kennedy's website.

5. Music at the Jackson Homestead. Guitar students from the New England Conservatory will perform this afternoon at the Jackson Homestead and Museum. The free concert starts at 2 p.m.