Butterflies, robots, pride dance, fair: 5 fun things this weekend

Come on, people. Open the door and take a big bite! The Worcester Guardian highlights events you may want to consider attending over the weekend. Five, to be exact.

Here are five picks of things to do in Worcester this weekend:

  1. Annual Sterling Fair: We’re not sure how many years this has been going on, but let’s just say, it’s very established. The “crowd favorite” Sterling Fair returns this weekend, starting Friday at 5 p.m. and continuing through Sunday. This event is a family-oriented, community, agricultural fair with an emphasis on agriculture and education. The fair, which takes place at the Sterling Airport, features rides, horse pulls, oxen pulls, tractor pulls, helicopter rides, antique engine and machinery shows, livestock shows, food, entertainment and more.
  2. Pride dance on the plaza: All are welcome for a vibrant celebration on the Francis R. Carroll Plaza (in front of the Hanover Theatre) for a Worcester Pride Dance, which opens up this season of the city’s pride events. DJ Achaziyah (House Boi – ManRay, Cambridge), DJ Pussywillow (House Boi – ManRay, Cambridge) and DJ Maj spin the beats, there’s a full bar, and the fun happens 8-11 p.m. on Friday.
  3. Before you slip into unconsciousness: Crystal Ship is the ultimate and definitive tribute to The Doors, and the band is coming to Rascals on Saturday, Sept. 7. Crystal Ship “is dedicated to preserving the legacy of Jim Morrison and The Doors, and they do it with unparalleled authenticity.” Break on through to the late ‘60s!
  4. Bring a robot to life! Get in on the action Friday, Sept. 6, at the Worcester Public Library to learn how to control a small robot through programming! Make it spell your name, outline a triangle, or even play a tune. Prior programming experience is recommended but not required. This event takes place in the Computer Lab at the Main Branch. Pre-register here.
  5. Helping wildlife, starting with butterflies: Monarch butterflies: Witness the incredible journey of eastern Monarch butterflies as they migrate to central Mexico and back—one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events. Visit Wachusett Meadow on Saturday, Sept. 7, from 1-3 p.m. for a hands-on Monarch tagging experience, part of a continent-wide research and conservation effort. Learn about other fall butterflies such as ringlets and wood nymphs, and discover how to support monarchs in your own backyard.

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