Night Lights 2021
When:
Where: Tower Hill Botanical Garden
WEST BOYLSTON: Celebrate the season with thousands of lights, new experiences, and enchanting landscapes. Enjoy a walking experience outdoors through roughly 15 acres of formal gardens and surrounding woodlands, including illuminated plants, paths, sculptures, and fountains. The magical scene is enhanced with fire pits for warming up, making s’mores, or enjoying a cup of hot cocoa or an adult beverage. Timed entry tickets, which are on sale now, must be reserved online in advance. This event will sell out quickly. Become a member during checkout to get a discount on your purchase and enjoy year-round benefits.www.towerhillbg.org/night-lights-2021/
Virtual Story Time: The Nutcracker with the Dream Ballet School
When:
Where: J.V. Fletcher Library Online
WESTFORD: In this interactive program, Emily Gilstrap of the Dream Ballet School presents a virtual adventure that brings the timeless story of The Nutcracker to life through music and dance. Register for this free program from the Library Events Calendar. Your registration confirmation includes the Zoom invitation link.
Wellness & Chair Exercise Class
When:
Where: Chelmsford Senior Center, 75 Groton Rd.
CHELMSFORD: With UMass Lowell Doctor of Physical Therapy Students, Rm. B07, Free. UMass Lowell students take class participants through a series of chair exercises and present a variety of health topics. Class size is limited to 12 participants. Register by calling 978-251-0533 or email ndussault@chelmsfordma.gov to ensure your spot for each class.
Laugh For Your Health with Susan Phillips
When:
Where: Acton Senior Center via Zoom
ACTON: Open to out-of-town seniors/free. Time to shed some stress and get refreshed! Group focus is on cultivating joy, ease, and warm connection—through contagious group laughter exercises, with short breaks of soothing belly breaths. If you are a new participant, email the COA at seniorcenter@actonma.gov to register for this program and we will send you the Zoom link, which will be recurring, or you can view the link in the
News section at www.actoncoa.com.
News section at www.actoncoa.com.
The Biden Agenda for Transforming America: Will He Succeed?
When:
Where: Acton Senior Center via Zoom
ACTON: Open to out-of-town seniors/free. President Biden has presented massive proposals to address major problems in American social and economic life: climate change, health care, poverty, daycare for children, paid leave, affordable housing & physical infrastructures. Register with the Council on Aging at seniorcenter@actonma.gov or 978-929-6652.
Covid 19 Booster Clinic
When:
Where: Acton Senior Center, 30 Sudbury Road Rear
ACTON: Acton Pharmacy will be at the Senior Center to give COVID booster shots.
Computer Club
When:
Where: Acton Senior Center, 30 Sudbury Road Rear
ACTON: Open to out-of-town seniors/free. All seniors are welcome to participate in Computer Club. Bring your computer and hardware questions, problems and related issues. If possible bring the problem hardware to the meeting. This is a club with no formally planned instruction. Several regulars are there willing to share their experiences, and work one-on-one, to resolve any computer issues, from Windows system difficulties, email setups/usage, networking issues, upgrades and assistance with “how do I” frustrations. MAC and Chrome/Android users are welcome. If you are unable to attend in person and would like to meet with a member using Zoom, please call or email the COA and we will forward your information to club members. seniorcenter@actonma.gov; 978-929-6652.
Stony Brook Middle School Book Club
When:
Where: Stony Brook Middle School Mass. Ave.
WESTFORD: Every first Wednesday. JV Fletcher YA Librarian, Jess, joins the Stony Brook Middle School librarian and students after school in the school library to discuss a different book each meeting along with related crafts and activities. (Remember to bring your library card to the first meeting!)
EcoTarium presents: Understanding Weather
When:
Where: Reuben Hoar Library, 41 Shattuck Street
LITTLETON: Rain boots or sunglasses? Shorts or parka? Discover why weather changes from day to day and how tiny molecules can create massive storms. Through interactive demonstrations, you'll experience the forces behind clouds, wind, rain, and even some extreme weather phenomena. This is intended for children in grades 2-8. The EcoTarium is collaborating with T-Mobile to offer our exciting traveling education programs at no cost to local community organizations! To register for events, visit https://littletonma.assabetinteractive.com/calendar.
Backyard and Beyond: Nature Journaling – Signs of the Season: WINTER!
When:
Where: Discovery Museum, 177 Main Street
ACTON: Drop-in 3pm – 4pm. Explore the natural world through science, art, and writing. We’ll provide supplies to create your very own nature journal, then you can take your journal on a nature walk around Discovery Woods or the Great Hill Conservation Land to search for signs of winter. Please note that the conservation land trails are not ADA or stroller accessible, please wear appropriate footwear and clothing – this program is weather and conditions dependent. For more information on Great Hill, please visit https://trails.actonma.gov/great-hill/. All programs are free with admission unless stated otherwise. Advance reservations are required to visit the Museum. Visit www.discoveryacton.org for hours, COVID safety protocols, and to make reservations. Some outdoor programs may be dependent on weather.
Mt. Calvary Community Supper: Shepherd's Pie
When:
Where: Mt. Calvary Community Church, 472 Massachusetts Ave
ACTON: Doors will open to enter at 4:15pm (absolutely, not prior). Dinner will be served from 4:45pm to 5:45pm. All guests must park in the back parking lot off Prospect Street. Guests are invited to choose a beverage and enjoy a sit-down dinner where they will be able to join in fellowship and conversation. For those who may not be comfortable eating inside, we offer a “Get to Go” meal which can be picked up inside the church between 5:30pm and 6pm. Park your car, WEAR A MASK, and walk into the lobby. No people may enter until 5:30pm unless coming for Sit-down Supper. Please, bring a bag to carry your food home.
NOTE: To ensure the health and well-being of everyone at Supper, we require guests to show their COVID vaccine cards before entering the dining room. In addition, we ask guests to wear their mask unless seated at their tables. All volunteers have been vaccinated and will wear masks and gloves throughout the Supper.
Sponsored by Asian American Civil Engagement Assoc.
NOTE: To ensure the health and well-being of everyone at Supper, we require guests to show their COVID vaccine cards before entering the dining room. In addition, we ask guests to wear their mask unless seated at their tables. All volunteers have been vaccinated and will wear masks and gloves throughout the Supper.
Sponsored by Asian American Civil Engagement Assoc.
The Nutcracker Reading
When:
Where: Concord Free Public Library, 129 Main Street
CONCORD: The Concord Free Public Library will host a free reading of the classic tale. Several ballet dancers from the Commonwealth Ballet Company will help bring the story to life in their elegant and colorful costumes as the story is read aloud. This is a wonderful opportunity for children to see and meet their favorite characters from the beloved holiday tale. The dancers will be available to answer questions and pose for photos with the children after the reading. This program is recommended for children ages 4-10. Registration not required. For more information about Library programs and services, call 978-318-3301 (Main Branch) or 978-318-3350 (Fowler Branch), or visit www.concordlibrary.org.
Blue Christmas Services
When:
Where: First United Methodist Church of Hudson, 34 Felton Street
HUDSON: For some, the Advent and Christmas season comes with mixed emotions. This service offers an opportunity to acknowledge that sometimes we are dealing with sadness, and the emotional struggles that this season can bring. We offer a safe place to share those emotions, acknowledging our loss in the midst of understanding that we are not alone. All are Welcome. For more information, call 978-562-2932.
Wellness Check
When:
Where: Shirley Senior Center, 9 Parker Road
SHIRLEY: Second Thursday of the month 9:30 to 10:30am. These clinics allow for personalized, one on one attention from a nurse. Offered services include blood pressure and blood sugar screenings, diet/nutrition information and teaching, medication review and assistance with identifying and coordinating community resources and referrals. All ages are welcome to attend. 978-425-1390; mlargey@shirley-ma.gov
Monthly Wellness Check
When:
Where: Shirley Senior Center, 9 Parker Road
SHIRLEY: FLU SHOTS are available at this clinic. These clinics allow for personalized, one on one attention from a nurse. Offered services include blood pressure and blood sugar screenings, diet/nutrition information and teaching, medication review and assistance with identifying and coordinating community resources and referrals. All ages are welcome to attend. Info: 978-425-1390; mlargey@shirley-ma.gov
Winter Workshop: Make a Stamp and Wrapping Paper Too!
When:
Where: Discovery Museum, 177 Main Street
ACTON: Drop-in 9:30am – 11am. Create a stamp of your own! With your creativity and imagination, basic shapes come together in a design that you can use again and again to create endless patterns. Then test out your stamp along with others to make some homemade wrapping paper for the holiday season! All programs are free with admission unless stated otherwise. Advance reservations are required to visit the Museum. Visit www.discoveryacton.org for hours, COVID safety protocols, and to make reservations. Some outdoor programs may be dependent on weather.
CFPL Storytime for pre-K children
When:
Where: Concord Free Public Library, 129 Main Street
CONCORD: Families are encouraged to register ahead of time on the CFPL website so there will be enough materials, but registration is not required! The Nature Connection designs programs to be accessible and inclusive for children of all backgrounds and abilities. For more information about Library programs and services, call 978-318-3301 (Main Branch) or 978-318-3350 (Fowler Branch), or visit www.concordlibrary.org.
Hearts, Hugs & Hope: A Virtual Alzheimer’s Support Group
When:
Where: Concord Park Assisted Living and Memory Care Community via Zoom
WEST CONCORD: Offered by Concord Park. Dealing with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia isn't easy, so it is helpful to share your concerns and personal experiences with others who completely understand what you're going through. You will also learn about proven strategies to help you better care for your family member. Call 978-369-4728 or email dpetitt@concordpark.org for the details and a Zoom invite.
Concord Park Assisted Living and Compass Memory Support is a project of the nonprofit Volunteers of America Massachusetts, which has supported local seniors with specialized services for over 75 years.
Concord Park Assisted Living and Compass Memory Support is a project of the nonprofit Volunteers of America Massachusetts, which has supported local seniors with specialized services for over 75 years.
Seminar: Discover Your Encore
When:
Where: Chelmsford Senior Center, 75 Groton Rd.
CHELMSFORD: Rm. B07. “Discover Your Encore” defines the “encore” stage of life and presents healthy aging through
purposeful work, whether paid or unpaid, with social impact. The seminar explores motivations, interests and competencies leading to development of attendees’ Encore Targets, which are personalized elevator speeches to use in telling their own, genuine Encore Stories. This interactive seminar offers opportunities to change one’s thinking about what’s possible, midlife and beyond. Join with others to find your encore “second act for the greater good.” Register by calling 978-251-0533 or email ndussault@chelmsfordma.gov.
purposeful work, whether paid or unpaid, with social impact. The seminar explores motivations, interests and competencies leading to development of attendees’ Encore Targets, which are personalized elevator speeches to use in telling their own, genuine Encore Stories. This interactive seminar offers opportunities to change one’s thinking about what’s possible, midlife and beyond. Join with others to find your encore “second act for the greater good.” Register by calling 978-251-0533 or email ndussault@chelmsfordma.gov.
Virtual Author Series: David Baldacci
When:
Where: Reuben Hoar Library Online
LITTLETON: A virtual event. Bestselling author David Baldacci will discuss his latest book, Mercy, via Zoom.
About the Book: FBI Agent Atlee Pine’s harrowing search for her long-lost sister Mercy reaches a boiling point in this breakneck thriller from #1 New York Times bestselling author David Baldacci. To register, visit https://littletonma.assabetinteractive.com/calendar
About the Book: FBI Agent Atlee Pine’s harrowing search for her long-lost sister Mercy reaches a boiling point in this breakneck thriller from #1 New York Times bestselling author David Baldacci. To register, visit https://littletonma.assabetinteractive.com/calendar
Virtual Felted Hedgehog Class
When:
Where: J.V. Fletcher Library Online
WESTFORD: Learn how to needle felt wool with a virtual class from Pop Up Art School. Use a barbed needle and merino wool roving to create a felted hedgehog. Makes a cute present! This beginner’s class is limited to 15 people. Materials kits provided in advance; please provide your own scissors. Register through the Library Events Calendar to get the Zoom link, and you’ll be notified when your kit is ready for pickup. Questions? Email Sarah Regan at sregan@westfordma.gov.
MCC "A Midsummer Night's Dream"
When:
Where: Richard & Nancy Donahue Family Academic Arts Center, 240 Central Street
LOWELL: Tickets: $15 general admission; $10 Middlesex Community College faculty & staff; Free for all MCC students. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/performingarts/ for more information or contact mmcarthy21@mail.middlesex.edu to buy tickets.
With parking not available on site, the nearest public parking facility is the Early Garage on 135 Middlesex St. in Lowell. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/transportation/ for more information.
With parking not available on site, the nearest public parking facility is the Early Garage on 135 Middlesex St. in Lowell. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/transportation/ for more information.
Make a Mess: Foamy Fun
When:
Where: Discovery Museum, 177 Main Street
ACTON: Drop-in 10am – 12pm. Don’t let the name fool you – today we will be having some good, clean fun! Join us as we experiment and create unique, foamtastic works of art using shaving cream and paint. Visit www.discoveryacton.org for hours, COVID safety protocols, and to make reservations. Some outdoor programs may be dependent on weather.
The Make a Mess program series introduces STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) concepts through sensory-based hands-on experiences, imagination, and fun.
The Make a Mess program series introduces STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) concepts through sensory-based hands-on experiences, imagination, and fun.
Toddler Storytime
When:
Where: Reuben Hoar Library, 41 Shattuck Street
LITTLETON: Join Miss Jennifer for songs, rhymes and stories as we explore a different theme each week! This program is best for children ages 18 months - 3 years. To register, visit https://littletonma.assabetinteractive.com/calendar
Humor, Just for Laughs with Ed Alessi
When:
Where: Discovery Museum, 177 Main Street
CHELMSFORD: Room B07. This workshop will explore some of the major theories as to why we laugh, along with how what we think is funny has changed over the years. Stay for the jokes! Register by calling 978- 251-0533 or email ndussault@chelmsfordma.gov.
Snap Circuits for Grades 3-5
When:
Where: J.V. Fletcher Library, 50 Main Street
WESTFORD: In the Meeting Room. Explore & play with Snap Circuits kits and make connections that whir, spin, light up, move & buzz! There are a variety of kits: R/C Car, Green Energy, Motion, Light, Arcade, 3-D Illumination & Snap Circuits Junior for beginners. Please register online from the Library Events Calendar.
Symphonic Exploration
When:
Where: Concord Council on Aging, 1276 Main Street.
WEST CONCORD: Join the Concord Conservatory of Music for the lecture presented by guest speaker Sepehr Pirasteh.
Be prepared to explore the depths of some of the greatest symphonies ever composed, and learn how the symphony evolved from the 18th century to the 20th century. Some of the greatest and most important musical masterpieces were written in the symphonic genre. You’ll hear how more than 100 instruments work together to form a large orchestra and make extraordinary sounds come to life in a concert hall. Students attending are encouraged to bring their instrument to sightread simple melodies that Sepehr has arranged from different music eras (classical, romantic, 20th century, etc.). Then, Sepehr will conduct participating musicians in an orchestral setting, and students will learn firsthand from a highly experienced conductor! General Admission $15; Kids under 18 are FREE. Purchase tickets in advance: https://concordconservatory.org/events/music-medicine/ or payable at the door. Email info@concordconservatory.org or call (978) 369-0010 for more info.
Be prepared to explore the depths of some of the greatest symphonies ever composed, and learn how the symphony evolved from the 18th century to the 20th century. Some of the greatest and most important musical masterpieces were written in the symphonic genre. You’ll hear how more than 100 instruments work together to form a large orchestra and make extraordinary sounds come to life in a concert hall. Students attending are encouraged to bring their instrument to sightread simple melodies that Sepehr has arranged from different music eras (classical, romantic, 20th century, etc.). Then, Sepehr will conduct participating musicians in an orchestral setting, and students will learn firsthand from a highly experienced conductor! General Admission $15; Kids under 18 are FREE. Purchase tickets in advance: https://concordconservatory.org/events/music-medicine/ or payable at the door. Email info@concordconservatory.org or call (978) 369-0010 for more info.
Beyond the Notes Minis: Sarah Whitney
When:
Where: The Umbrella, 40 Stow Street
CONCORD: Whitney will take to the stage for an unforgettable evening of music! The program will consist of works for solo violin and for violin and loop pedal, highlighting the works of Black composers. The concert will be presented live in The Umbrella’s Black Box Theater with limited capacity to allow for social distancing. In-person and live virtual ticketing options are available. 20% of all proceeds will be donated to The Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP). All attendees must provide proof of full vaccination by showing a vaccination card, a photo of the card, or a digital vaccine record. Anyone exempt from/ineligible to receive the vaccine or unable to verify vaccination status must present proof of a negative PCR COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours OR healthcare-professional-administered negative rapid test within 24 hours of the time of entry. Regardless of vaccine status, ALL patrons must wear a properly fitted CDC-approved face mask. The venue will operate at limited capacity with distanced seating and upgraded MERV-13 HVAC filters. Tickets are $30; $15/student, and must be purchased in advance. In-person & live virtual ticketing options are available. Info/Tickets: www.gobeyondthenotes.com.
Polar Express Night (Parents' Night Out)
When:
Where: Acton Recreation Center
ACTON: $15 per child, $5 discount each additional child. www.actonrec.com; recreation@actonma.gov
A Little Holiday Magic
When:
Where: StageWorks!, Leominster City Hall
LEOMINSTER: celebrate the holidays with a performance by the North Worcester County Symphony Orchestra. www.stageworksofleominster.org
Erev Shabbat Service
When:
Where: Kerem Shalom in-person & online
CONCORD: Join Kerem Shalom member Marty Plotkin and Kerem Shalom Cantor Rosalie Gerut for an Erev Shabbat service. Enjoy beautiful music and prayer as we welcome Shabbat as a community. Please see keremshalom.org for additional information and registration for all events. Contact the office at 978-369-1223 or ksadmin@keremshalom.org with any questions. Please check the website in advance to ensure that in-person events have not been moved online.
Redlining in Acton? Virtual Saturday Morning Breakfast
When:
Where: First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) online
STOW: Affordable housing advocate Bob Van Meter will discuss the history of racial discrimination in housing (aka redlining) in the U.S. and in the region. His talk will draw on themes discussed in the recent bestselling book “The Color of Law” by Richard Rothstein and will include local examples of redlining. Van Meter will explore the legacy of historic discrimination for our communities today. The Saturday Morning Breakfast series is hosted by FPC member Jeff Brown. To access the URL for this virtual event, visit http://facebook.com/fpcstowacton/events. There’s no charge and all are welcome.
Family Holiday Event at the ReStore
When:
Where: Habitat NCM ReStore, 637 Lancaster Street
LEOMINSTER: Santa, kids crafts, scavenger hunt, and refreshments. Wreaths will also be available for $20. Register by December 10th to be entered to win a ReStore gift card--and thank you to Workers Credit Union for sponsoring this event!
Friends' Jigsaw Puzzle & Cookbook Sale
When:
Where: Lunenburg Public Library, 1023 Mass. Ave.
LUNENBURG: Stock up on new-to-you puzzles and a wide variety of cookbooks donated by the family of the late Louis Sacco! Shop Local & Support Your Library. No set prices on the items in the sale. Donations suggested. Cash or check made out to the Friends of the Lunenburg Library for your selections. (Masks are required. Hand sanitizer and disposable face masks will be provided for use at the door if needed.) Info: Contact Muir Haman at 978-582-4140 x15 or email mhaman@cwmars.org.
Virtual Music & Movement with Miss Bernadette
When:
Where: Discovery Museum via Zoom
ACTON: Free. Virtual
Explore sound through singing and playing from the comfort of your own home! Move, make music, listen, learn, and get a multi-sensory workout! Music improves your child’s memory, cognitive development, learning skills, and ability to express emotion. Plus, it’s fun!
This program will take place on Zoom. Registration is required https://bit.ly/MusicMoveDec2021 to receive login information to join. Visit www.discoveryacton.org for hours, COVID safety protocols, and to make reservations. Some outdoor programs may be dependent on weather.
Explore sound through singing and playing from the comfort of your own home! Move, make music, listen, learn, and get a multi-sensory workout! Music improves your child’s memory, cognitive development, learning skills, and ability to express emotion. Plus, it’s fun!
This program will take place on Zoom. Registration is required https://bit.ly/MusicMoveDec2021 to receive login information to join. Visit www.discoveryacton.org for hours, COVID safety protocols, and to make reservations. Some outdoor programs may be dependent on weather.
Concord Museum’s 11th Annual Holiday House Tour
When:
Where: Discovery Museum via Zoom
CONCORD: Get ready to turn Concord “inside out”! This twist to showcases the incredible outdoor spaces of ten
Concord homes. Hidden and often overlooked spaces, like porches, doorways,
playhouses, barns, and cottages, will take center stage for this showcase of outdoor
winter wonderlands. Tickets include admission to ten outdoor spaces on the Inside Out Tour, a program
booklet with detailed information about each home and property, free cocoa at the
Colonial Inn, and Free Admission to the new galleries at the Concord Museum
including the 26th Annual Family Trees event. Tickets may be purchased online or
by calling 978-369-9763 ext. 222.
Concord homes. Hidden and often overlooked spaces, like porches, doorways,
playhouses, barns, and cottages, will take center stage for this showcase of outdoor
winter wonderlands. Tickets include admission to ten outdoor spaces on the Inside Out Tour, a program
booklet with detailed information about each home and property, free cocoa at the
Colonial Inn, and Free Admission to the new galleries at the Concord Museum
including the 26th Annual Family Trees event. Tickets may be purchased online or
by calling 978-369-9763 ext. 222.
Cardboard Automata Workshop
When:
Where: Discovery Museum, 177 Main Street
ACTON: An exciting new program in the PlayLab for kids and their caregiver to explore simple mechanical concepts and create cardboard automata—a moving sculpture! In this 90-minute session we’ll investigate levers, cams, linkages, and other mechanisms to make and decorate automata you can take home. Experiment with ways to engineer and decorate a toy that moves up and down, spins around, and more! $10 per person (does not include Museum admission). This program is recommended for children aged 7 and up with an accompanying adult. Due to the nature of the materials we’ll be using, we cannot accommodate children under 5 to be present. Register online at https://bit.ly/DMAutomataDec21
Faith Evangelical Free Church Weekly Services
When:
Where: 54 Hosmer Street
ACTON: 8:15-9:15am outside, parking lot worship service (bring your own chair and masks). If it rains, bring your chair, meeting will move into the Multi-purpose room; 9:45-10:30am: Childrens, Jr. High, Sr. High & Adult Sunday School classes (also available via Zoom); 10:30-11am Fellowship; 11am-12:15pm. Indoor & livestream worship service. Children's Church (age 4 to grade 3) provided during the sermon time. CREW (4th to 6th grade) bi-monthly. To watch the 11am service via livestream, go to YouTube channel www.youtube.om/c/FaithEvFreeChurchActonMA.
Opening to Joy – FPC Sunday Service
When:
Where: First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC)
STOW: As we approach the shortest day of the year and the earliest sunset, FPC will hold a service about how to open to joy and celebration in the darkest time of the year. The service will be led twice by the Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Landrum. At 9am, the service will only take place in person, and at 11am, the service will take place both in person and online. To allow for social distancing, FPC is requiring advance requests to attend its services in person. To request a spot, visit http://fpc-stow-acton.org/services and find the link to the form, which must be completed and submitted by noon on the Thursday before the service takes place. You will receive an email notifying you if FPC has a space for you in that service. Masks must be worn. For the virtual service, a link will be posted at http://fpc-stow-acton.org within 24 hours of the service. To prevent disruptive intrusions, the virtual room will be locked about 15 minutes after the service begins. For more information, call 978-897-8149 or visit fpc-stow-acton.org.
UCC Weekly Services
When:
Where: United Church of Christ, 723 Massachusetts Avenue
BOXBOROUGH: The UCC in Boxborough is opening its doors Every Sunday for weekly services. Local folks are invited to join for in person worship in the sanctuary. Vaccination is strongly requested and encouraged, physical distancing shall be maintained when seated, and masks are required. There is very limited singing together. Following suggested state guidelines, there is a limit to the number of people that can be in the sanctuary, but that number has not been reached. No registration is required, although names and contact information will be gathered for contact tracing. Online worship is also available via Zoom. For Meeting ID and more information about life at UCCB, visit www.boxboroughucc.org or call 978-263-7387.
Revelry Sunday
When:
Where: First Parish of Sudbury, 327 Concord Road
SUDBURY: First Parish of Sudbury and Rev. Dr. Marjorie Matty warmly invite the community to this service which honors earth-centered tradition. It will be filled with dancing, reveling & the reenactment of ancient rituals originally designed to bring back the sun and ensure the rebirth of the natural world, at this time of year when we experience the longest night. Come enjoy music and dance performances by both the youth and senior youth Morris dance groups and First Parish Choir. Leading the service will be First Parish dance master Tom Kruskal and Minister of Music Debra Morris-Bennett. See fpsdudbury.org for the Zoom link.
Backyard and Beyond: Sensory Sundays
When:
Where: United Church of Christ, 723 Massachusetts Avenue
ACTON: A great way for the whole family to enjoy time outdoors, our Sensory Sundays program will be held outside, no matter the weather! Every Sunday morning we’ll do a nature-based activity based on the weather and season, either in Discovery Woods or out on the adjacent conservation land. All ages are welcome but activities are designed for 2-6 year olds. Please note that the conservation land trails are not ADA or stroller accessible; please wear appropriate footwear and clothing. For more information on Great Hill, please visit https://trails.actonma.gov/great-hill/. All programs are free with admission unless stated otherwise. Advance reservations are required to visit the Museum. Visit www.discoveryacton.org for hours, COVID safety protocols, and to make reservations. Some outdoor programs may be dependent on weather.
Caroling on the Common
When:
Where: Littleton Town Common
LITTLETON: Sponsored by Greater Littleton Interfaith Council Sponsors. Weather permitting, meet on Littleton Common to sing traditional Christmas music. Family friendly. All are welcome! Masks and/or social distancing are recommended. Song sheets will be available.
Boxborough Museum
When:
Where: Boxborough Museum, 575 Middle Road
BOXBOROUGH: See Boxborough’s historic treasures including the 1850’s scale which is sensitive enough to weigh a penny and strong enough to calibrate a 50 pound weight, the “new” hearse built in 1881, and the “old” hearse (come and see how old is old). Admission is free and all are welcome. In accordance with town of Boxborough requirements masks must be worn. For more information or if anyone wishes to arrange a private tour for a small group at a different time please call John Fallon at 978-264-0069.
Chelmsford Community Band 2021 Holiday Concert
When:
Where: McCarthy Middle School, 250 North Road
CHELMSFORD: A musical holiday excursion. Bundle up in your sleigh, listen to the bells, enjoy the lights & feel the warmth of shared joy in beloved traditions and new favorites. Admission is free, but donations are gladly accepted. Suggested: $10 adults; $5 for children/seniors. Masks are required inside the school. Visit www.chelmsfordcommunityband.com or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram for more information.
Nashoba Valley Chorale: Awake, Psaltery, & Harp
When:
Where: Acton Congregational Church, 12 Concord Road
ACTON: Nashoba Valley Chorale is pleased and proud to introduce its 2021 Emerging Artist, Margaleet Katzenblickstein, soprano. Margaleet will perform. Nashoba Valley Chorale will be closely following the COVID-19 guidelines as mandated by the CDC and the state. To keep Audience members, singers and performers safe, Audience members must show proof of full vaccination, or a Negative COVID-19 test result from within 72 hours of the performance, to gain entrance for this event. Info: https://nashobachorale.org.
A Christmas Blessing Annual Concert
When:
Where: Central Congregational Church, UCC, 1 Worthen Street
CHELMSFORD: You will hear wonderful Christmas music featuring the church choir, handbell choir, soloist Philip Lima, violinist Karl Orvik, and pianist and director Tudor Bota. There will be a free will offering for those who would like to make a donation. A light reception will be held after the concert. Masks are required. For those who don’t feel comfortable out in public, the concert will be live-streamed on the church You Tube Channel.
Northborough Area Community Chorus 2021 Annual Christmas Concert
When:
Where: Algonquin Regional High School, 79 Bartlett Street
NORTHBOROUGH: Under the direction of Elinor A. Armsby with accompanist Mark Bartlett. Tickets are just $5. Audience members are required to wear masks, according to school COVID-19 protocols. For more information call 571-331-0214 or 508-393-8943 or visit www.nacc.net.
MetroWest Jewish Day School’s 18th Annual Gala
When:
Where: Metrowest Jewish Day School Online
FRAMINGHAM: MetroWest Jewish Day School’s 18th Annual Gala, Honoring the Past: Shaping the Future will be held virtually. The Gala is the single largest fundraiser the school holds each year and it brings in a significant amount of funding for the school. Info: Erin Connors, erin.connors@mwjds.org