Good morning, Worcester.

On July 3, the Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra will host its free Patriotic Pops concert at Institute Park in Worcester—fireworks will launch at 7:45 p.m. and the performance will feature music by American composers including Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, along with food trucks and a rain date of July 4.

Professor Heather Treseler of Worcester State University won the prestigious Pushcart Prize for her poem 'Purpura' when she picked up pizza at a local shop.

Her work explores family history and personal hardship, appears in her debut book longlisted for the Massachusetts Book Award—and she said the prize boosts her confidence as she works on a new manuscript.

Worcester Sen. Robyn Kennedy proposed a $500,000 amendment to revive the Massachusetts Resettlement Support Program to help agencies support refugees and immigrants who lost federal aid.

She condemned recent immigration raids by masked ICE agents that led to protests and early city hall closings in the city — resettlement groups are facing layoffs and halted federal funding.

Worcester Mayor Joseph Petty said the city council meeting was held remotely Tuesday night because threats of violence against elected officials and staff were reported after a woman was arrested by ICE last week.

Officials also arranged for remote public participation via Zoom or phone—ensuring that community members could follow the proceedings safely.

Worcester announced on Monday that Tuesday night’s council and finance meetings were held virtually—an action taken after threats of violence amid tensions following a recent ICE detention.

A protest against ICE and police involvement was held Tuesday at City Hall starting at 5:30 p.m.

Local leaders and legal experts debated if the police acted right when ICE arrested a woman on Eureka Street amid a gathering of over 30 protesters (some said the event shook the community).

City officials set City Hall to close at 5 p.m. today as a safety measure before the Council meeting.

Community Preservation Manager Jacqueline Burmeister said the CPA program—funded by a local tax that brings in about $4-5 million each year—helps pay for historic buildings, affordable housing, and parks in Worcester.

The funds build up each year and can be used later if they are not spent immediately.

CoComelon: Sing-A-Long

4-6 p.m. — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Tickets required — Experience a lively Broadway-style production featuring favorite sing-along songs from CoComelon.

Conservatory Spring Reflection 2025

1-2:30 p.m. — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Free entry — Celebrate the beauty of spring in an engaging performance reflecting nature's renewal.

Nekrogoblikon Concert

6-10 p.m. — Palladium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique sound of Nekrogoblikon as they bring their high-energy performance to Worcester.

Monthly Craft, Color, and Chat

11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. — Morse Institute Library — Free entry — Enjoy crafts and connect with an accepting community for socializing and support.

Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit

3:30 a.m. — The Mercantile — Cheap tickets available — Experience the stunning artistry of Van Gogh in an immersive setting.

Informed Investor Mastermind Conference

5-9 p.m. — Off The Rails — $35 entry — Network, learn, and connect with real estate pros and industry experts in a collaborative environment.

May Fiesta: Boodle Fight!

4-9 p.m. — Loft 266 — Tickets required — Experience a Filipino cultural celebration with delicious food and vibrant entertainment.

Tesla Concert

1-5 p.m. — Indian Ranch — General Admission — Experience the electrifying sounds of Tesla at the Summer Kickoff Concert with a rich history of rock music.

Pigeons Playing Ping Pong Concert

5-8 PM — Tree House Brewing Company — Ticket prices vary — Experience the high-energy psychedelic funk of Pigeons Playing Ping Pong live.

Taj Mahal and Keb' Mo' Concert

7 p.m. — Tree House Brewing Company — Ticket prices may vary — Enjoy an evening of roots music from iconic blues artists Taj Mahal and Keb' Mo'.