Here are the Worcester Guardian’s five picks for things to do in Worcester this weekend:
- Chris Janson ties wild horses up at Off The Rails: Country hitmaker Chris Janson, fresh off the release of his new album “Wild Horses,” headlines an outdoor summer show at Off The Rails on Friday, Aug. 29. Known for his electrifying live sets and hits like “Buy Me a Boat,” “Good Vibes,” and “Done,” the ACM Award-winner will be joined by rising country star Joe Lasher. Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets available now.
- Don’t Stop Now: Louis Despres at 25 (years behind the lens, that is): From Worcester’s late-night clubs to family factory floors, photographer Louis Despres has been chronicling life with grit and style for a quarter-century. His new retrospective, “Don’t Stop Now,” opens with a reception Saturday, Aug. 31, at 5 p.m. at WCUW’s Harold Stevens Gallery, 910 Main St., and runs through Sept. 22. This is Worcester’s chance to see the city — and beyond — through Despres’ restless, razor-sharp lens.
- Rock Your Labor Day with a Foo Fighters tribute: Ease into the extended weekend groove on Sunday, Aug 31, from 2-6 p.m. with Electric Flannel and Foo Fighters tribute band Monkey Wrench live at the Marine Corps League (MCL) on Lake Quinsigamond. Expect ’90s and alt-rock nostalgia powered by gritty riffs and raw energy from Worcester’s own Electric Flannel and potent Foo Fighters anthems from Monkey Wrench. Chill vibe, cold drinks, and the infamous Chow Hall specials—think chili dogs and burgers for just $5—make this a no-brainer for a laid-back afternoon of music and good company.
- Pedals, portraits & panache: a night for Major Taylor: Step back in time Thursday, Aug. 28, 5:30–7:30 p.m. at the Worcester Art Museum for an evening honoring legendary bicycle champion Marshall W. “Major” Taylor. This “friend raiser” supports the upcoming documentary Whirlwind and includes the unveiling of a portrait from Louis Garneau’s Resilience series, now joining the Museum of Worcester’s collection. Guests are encouraged to get playful with attire—think vintage cycling chic, pocket watches, parasols, bow ties, or lace gloves. Tickets are $35, registration required.
- Prom with pride: Pride Worcester and SWAGLY invite LGBTQIA+ youth ages 11–16 to the Beyond Acceptance Worcester Youth Pride Prom 2025, happening Saturday, Aug. 30, from 6–8 p.m. Thanks to presenting sponsor OpenSky, this isn’t just any prom—it’s a celebration of community, joy, and identity. Expect a fabulous drag show, special performances, great food, music, and plenty of space to connect and celebrate. Youth, parents, guardians, and youth workers are all welcome to be part of the fun.
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
