Here are five picks of things to do in Worcester this weekend:
- You Belong Here celebration: Celebrate community and diversity at the You Belong Here event outside the Worcester Public Library on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 4-9 p.m. Local artist Sharinna Travieso’s 90-foot public art and lighting installation will be unveiled, reflecting the theme of belonging. Enjoy free activities such as a deejay spinning tunes, street performers, a Ferris wheel, a paint-by-numbers mural, and food trucks. All ages are welcome to join in this vibrant and family-friendly celebration of Worcester’s culture and creativity.
- Grin and share it, it’s World Smile Day: Celebrate kindness and the iconic Smiley Face this weekend. Worcester, the birthplace of the Smiley Face, celebrates World Smile Day on Friday, Oct. 4, from noon to 3 p.m. at Worcester Common. Enjoy food trucks, Table Talk pies, and entertainment, followed by the 23rd Annual Harvey Ball event at the Mercantile Center, honoring the Coghlin Family for their community contributions.
- Get Your Salsa On at Mechanics Hall: Join for some spicy steps at the Salsa Social on Friday, Oct. 4, from 7-11 p.m. Members get in for free, while nonmembers pay $10 in advance or $15 at the door. The evening kicks off with a Salsa and Bachata lesson by Laura Leones from 7-8 p.m., followed by open dancing until 11 p.m. Enjoy a cash bar and concessions while you dance the night away in the Great Hall. Ages 18 and up welcome.
- Spooktacular Halloween anime cosplay night: Join Freeplay Bar Arcade Worcester for a thrilling Halloween anime cosplay night on Friday, Oct. 4. Enjoy arcade games, music, and themed cocktails while showcasing your creativity in the first-ever Halloween cosplay competition. Participants must create at least 50 percent of their cosplay by hand. Get ready for judging at 9 p.m., with the stage walk starting at 10 p.m. Prizes include gift cards, trophies, and exclusive merchandise. Costumes from all genres are welcome, and horror themes are encouraged. Ages 21 and up only.
- Italian heritage parade: Where else, but on Shrewsbury Street? The Shrewsbury Street Italian Heritage Parade and Festival starts at noon on Sunday, Oct. 6, and features a massive parade with floats, autos and trucks, groups, teams, squads and color guards. It’s the third annual, it’s rain or shine, and all are welcome.
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
