This weekend’s jam-packed with things to do, places to go and people to see. Our picks include a Pink Floyd tribute from the land down under, a benefit show for a beloved singer, a reunion with Zonkaraz, a new exhibit for kids (mostly) at the EcoTarium and a historical talk about Jefferson and Madison
Here are the Worcester Guardian’s five picks for things to do in Worcester this weekend:
- Reunited and it feels so good: Step back in time with Worcester musical icons Zonkaraz, as founding members Ric Porter, Jo List, and Jon Webster take the stage once again—joined by Dan Gay, Brendan Keenan, Chuck & Mud, Peter Allard, and Walter Crockett—for an unforgettable evening honoring the band’s legacy and the memories of Paul Vuona, George Weston, Paul “Spider” Hanson, and Gil Markle. Opening the show and serving as Master of Ceremonies, Mike Ladd sets the tone for a night of classic hits, camaraderie, and celebration. The concert kicks off at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Hibernian Cultural Center. Doors open at 6 p.m. with food available starting at 5 p.m. Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 at the door. A portion of proceeds supports WCUW Community Radio, with a 50/50 raffle adding to the excitement.
- Worcester bands rally for fellow musician: The local music scene comes together Sunday, Sept. 21 (noon to 6 p.m.) at Halligan’s in Auburn to support Paul “Star” Starvaski — beloved frontman of Boombox and veteran of bands such Pet Rock and Cathy’s Clown — who is battling Stage 4 lung cancer. Expect an afternoon of live music, raffles, food, and community spirit, with performances by Boombox, Mindrift, Riff-Raff, Vivi and Da Funk, plus special mini reunions with members of Cathy’s Clown and Pet Rock. A $20 donation at the door benefits his care, and for those who can’t make it, contributions are welcome via GoFundMe.
- Jefferson & Madison’s excellent adventure: Take a ride back to 1791 when Thomas Jefferson and James Madison saddled up for a northern journey that shaped both a nation and a lifelong friendship. Historian Louis Masur will unpack their travels — from studying sugar maples in Vermont to meeting Native communities and reflecting on slavery — in “A Journey North: Jefferson, Madison, and the Forging of a Friendship” on Thursday, Sept. 18, 7–8 p.m. at the American Antiquarian Society. This hybrid program is free to attend in person or via livestream (registration required).
- Say Cheese! Wallace & Gromit are arriving: The EcoTarium rolls out the red carpet (and cheese wheels) for Wallace & Gromit with a ribbon-cutting on Saturday, Sept. 20, at 11:30 a.m. The new exhibit “Wallace & Gromit: Get Cracking!” lets kids ages 3–9 step inside the duo’s wacky world of inventions, hands-on STEM fun, and problem-solving adventures. From rockets to porridge cannons, the interactive experience blends play with learning and runs through Jan. 4, 2026.
- Shine on with the Australian Pink Floyd Show: Celebrate the 50th anniversary of “Wish You Were Here as The Australian Pink Floyd Show brings its world-renowned tribute to Worcester. With lasers, inflatables, dazzling visuals, and spot-on sound, TAPFS captures every era of Pink Floyd’s legacy. More than just a tribute, the group has sold out arenas worldwide for more than 30 years — and now they’re at the Hanover Theatre on Friday, Sept. 19, 8 p.m.
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
