This weekend’s got a whole lot of spirited events as we kick into the fall season, from the area’s biggest animal festival to a classic rock double shot to the annual Armenia fest and a tour of Donker Farm. Get out and do something.
Here are the Worcester Guardian’s five picks for things to do in Worcester this weekend:
- Feast on Armenian flavor: The Worcester Armenian Festival returns this weekend at the Armenian Church of Our Savior, 87 Salisbury St. The celebration runs Saturday, Oct. 4, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 5, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Expect music, cultural presentations, church tours, and plenty of food—from classics like lahmajun (Armenian meat pizza) and handmade manti dumplings to herb-stuffed breads and spiced kebabs. Free admission.
- Down on the Farm — in Worcester? Yes, Worcester still has a working farm, and you can see it for yourself at the 7th annual Donker Farm Festival on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 39 Tory Fort Lane. The family-friendly event offers guided hikes, live music, craft demonstrations, farm animals, vendors, and fresh-pressed cider. Admission is free, with baked goods and yard-sale treasures available for purchase.
- Rock out for rescues (and all animals!): The 27th annual Pet Rock Festival returns Sunday, Oct. 5, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Lancaster Fairgrounds, bringing music, food, and furry fun for a cause. Headlining is “American Idol” winner David Cook, alongside local bands, while more than 100 animal welfare groups showcase their work. Expect demos, contests, vendors, vegan eats, and plenty of four-legged friends. Proceeds support animal charities across New England. $15 adults, $5 kids 12 and under.
- Brunch with a side of tease: Kick off your Sunday with Worcester’s first burlesque brunch, Silk & Satin, at Femme Bar on Oct. 5 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hosted by Lady LaRouge and Dolores Sweet, the show features performances by LaRouge, Sweet, Jynx Merlot, and Lo-La La. Tickets are $35 and include brunch and the show.
- Nothing’s gonna stop this slow ride: Two legendary acts take the stage Friday, Oct. 3, at the Hanover Theatre. Starship featuring Mickey Thomas delivers its ’80s anthems including “We Built This City,” “Sara” and “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now,” alongside Jefferson Starship and Airplane classics. Sharing the bill are boogie-rock icons Foghat, still going strong after 50+ years with their chart-topping 2023 album Sonic Mojo and timeless hits like “Slow Ride.” Show starts at 7:30 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
