Here are five picks of things to do in Worcester this weekend:
- Jubilee Gardens blooms again: Catch a (kinda) rare live set from Worcester’s own Jubilee Gardens as they return to the WCUW Front Room on Saturday night with a soulful mix of original tunes and eclectic instrumentation—violin, cello, oud, bass, and more. Led by singer-songwriter Jubilee Connolly, the group features a lineup of seasoned musicians you don’t get to hear together often these days. The night kicks off with a cello-and-Bach prelude by Michael Severens and includes a halftime cameo from singer-songwriter Kevin James Siddle. It’s $15 cash at the door, BYOB, and friendly vibes guaranteed. Doors at 6:30, music at 7 p.m., 910 Main St. (Clark lot has your parking).
- Yule be laughing in July: Downtown Worcester is serving up tinsel and tap shoes this Thursday, July 10, with a Christmas in July screening of “Spirited” on the Worcester Common Oval (behind City Hall). This modern, musical twist on “A Christmas Carol” stars Will Ferrell, Ryan Reynolds, and Octavia Spencer—think high-energy holiday chaos with a Broadway beat. The festivities kick off at 6 p.m. with drag performances by Victoria Obvious and Diva D, interactive games, and giveaways: the first 100 attendees snag free popcorn, and the first 50 get food vouchers. The movie starts at 7 p.m., so bring a chair or blanket and claim your spot early. BYO snacks or grab bites on-site or at one of the many downtown spots nearby.
- Teens take the stage (and tell it like it Is): The WYSH Project (Worcester Youth Speak Honestly) returns for its fifth year with a powerful original performance created by Worcester teens. Blending personal stories, movement, and dramatized scenes, this one-night-only show gives young people a platform to speak candidly about life in the city and their hopes for change. The performance runs about 75 minutes and includes a post-show talk-back with the cast. It’s free, open to the public, and takes place Friday, July 11 from 7 to 8:35 p.m. at the BrickBox Theater, 20 Franklin St., Worcester. RSVP to reserve your spot.
- Bug out at the EcoTarium: Celebrate the wild and wonderful world of insects at Insect Day, happening Saturday, July 12, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the EcoTarium. Get up close with the planet’s most numerous creatures, learn quirky facts, and even don a bug costume if the spirit moves you. It’s all included with regular museum admission—and yes, it’s totally fine to bring your own wings.
- Afro-Latin jazz in the park: The Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra teams up with Grammy-nominated artist Manolo Mairena for a free outdoor concert on Sunday, July 13 at 7 p.m. in Worcester’s Institute Park, 82 Salisbury St. Expect a global mix of sounds, original compositions, and some of the state’s top Latino musicians lighting up the night. Bring a chair, a friend, and your best rhythm. (Rain date: Sunday, July 20.)
For more events, visit the Discover Central Massachusetts events calendar.
Have an event, news tip, information, joke, favorite recipe or anything else you’d like to tell us about? You should. Contact carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
