Here are five picks of things to do in Worcester this weekend:
- Broadway star power lands in Worcester: Cheyenne Jackson brings his critically acclaimed cabaret show Signs of Life to the BrickBox Theater at the Jean McDonough Arts Center on Thursday, May 22, from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Known for standout roles in “Glee,” “30 Rock,” “American Horror Story,” and Broadway hits such as “ Into the Woods” and “Xanadu,” Jackson offers a night of music, heart, and hilarious storytelling. Expect big vocals, personal stories, and cosmic comedy in a one-man show that’s earned praise from none other than Neil Patrick Harris.
- From barbed wire to victory wires: Discover how Worcester helped win not one, but two world wars at Worcester Wins the War, a free talk happening Friday, May 23 from 11 a.m. to noon in the Fuller Gallery of Industrial History at the Museum of Worcester (formerly the Worcester Historical Museum). Military historian and gallery team member Bob Stacy will dive into the city’s pivotal role in wartime production—think helmets, barbed wire, and other unsung essentials that powered Allied success. It’s all-ages, all-free, and all about Worcester’s industrial muscle.
- Bob Dylan two ways (musically speaking): WCUW celebrates Bob Dylan’s birthday with two nights of tributes at 910 Main St. in the Frontroom. Saturday’s Electric Dylan Bash (May 24, 7:30 p.m.) features Jim Perry, the MacGillivray brothers, Jon Webster, and a rotating cast of local favorites like Gracie Day, Craig Rawding, and Chuck and Mud, all plugged in and turned up. On Sunday (May 25, 4:30 p.m.), Chuck Demers leads the Acoustic Dylan Bash, a more stripped-down fundraiser for the station. Both shows are $15 at the door—cash only—and Sunday’s event encourages you to bring a picnic.
- We’re gonna rock down to…Electric Avenue (market): Electric Haze is taking it to the street—literally. On Saturday, May 24, from 3-11 p.m., Lamartine Street transforms into the Electric Avenue Market, an all-ages block party packed with artisan vendors, a bar, open mic performances (3–7 p.m.), and live music flowing from inside Electric Haze to the street after 7. It’s free to attend, 21+ to drink, and full of ways to spend a summer Saturday the funky way.
- Shroom with a view: Get crafty with nature’s quirkiest fungi at a needle felting workshop at the Burncoat Center for Arts and Wellness on Saturday from noon to 12:30 p.m. No experience needed—just bring your imagination (or mushroom inspo pics) and learn how to turn wool into whimsical felt mushrooms. Materials in both natural and vibrant colors will be provided, and instructor Stephanie, a 3D artist with a passion for accessibility, will guide you through the process.
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
