Five Things You Need to Know Today: Oct. 13

1. Harvest fair. The two-day 2012 Newton Harvest Fair will kick off today in the Newton Centre Green and parking lot from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Today's festivities will include kiddie amusement rides, sand art and face painting

2. Trade & Recycle Day. "Swap 'til you drop" today from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the City of Newton Resource Recovery Center. Newton residents can drop off and swap appliances, books, bicycles, sporting goods, household items, reusable building materials, non-upholstered furniture and more. No computer monitors, TVs, paint or hazardous materials allowed. 

3. Jazz in the Yard. A make-up event for the Newton Jazz & Wine Festival's Jazz in the Yard event will be held today from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The show will feature five groups performing in the yard at the Jackson Homestead & Museum. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets to sit in the yard and enjoy the music. 

4. YoFresh grand opening. The new Newtonville Frozen Yogurt cafe will hold its official grand opening celebration today starting at 11 a.m.

5. Opening Night at the Symphony. The New Philharmonia Orchestra is celebrating its 18th season and to kick it off, it will hold a special Opening Night at the Symphony Gala Fundraiser tonight at Gregorian Rugs starting at 7:30 p.m. The evening will include music from the New Phil, international music groups, a cocktail reception and more. Tickets are $50.