Good morning, Worcester.

Halligan's Bar announced on July 22 that it will close Sat Dec.

12 after an 11-year run. A closing celebration with multiple bands, food & festivities will begin at 1 p.m. at the venue on 889 Southbridge St.

Lisa Malo of the Worcester BID highlighted three downtown experiences for August.

Residents can visit August Coffee, attend the 'Burnin’ Down the House' documentary at Hanover Theatre on Thursday, Aug. 6 at 7:30 p.m., and enjoy Friday night roller skating at the Worcester Common Oval.

WPI researchers Jun Dai and Xiaoyan 'Sherry' Sun received a $600,000 NSF grant to launch a three-year online program that will train 10 high school STEM teachers each year in quantum information science and cybersecurity + a six-week summer session will offer hands-on training.

Clark University School of Business in Worcester was named to The Princeton Review’s Best Business Schools for 2027 and ranked sixth for competitive students.

The honor was based on over 60 data points in academics, admissions and technology and was announced by Dean Jing Zhang on Tuesday.

A bill in the House could remove the state’s minimum wage law for Worcester Red Sox players if signed into law.

The proposal (introduced July 22) covers players under a collective bargaining agreement and exempts them from record-keeping rules.

Worcester Director of Veterans Services Bruce Mendelsohn announced new community-focused plans to expand benefits, preserve memorials, and strengthen aid for military families by partnering with local groups - he urges veterans to ask for help early and invites residents to learn about historic sites like Gold Star Boulevard.

Coes Reservoir in Worcester is closed until further notice after tests revealed high levels of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae); officials advise residents to avoid water contact and keep pets off the water until it is declared safe.

Dr. Jeffrey Adams, an emergency physician at St. Vincent Hospital, advises residents to prevent heat stroke by staying hydrated and cooling off when feeling weak.

He also urges water safety practices like using Coast Guard-approved life jackets and supervising children (vulnerable groups include older adults and outdoor workers).

Cyclists will tackle a steep 500-foot route on George Street on Sunday, July 26, during the annual Major Taylor Bike Challenge, racing against the clock on an 18 percent grade climb from Main to Harvard Street while registration remains open and spectators line the route.

Leominster’s 18-year-old star, Osiris Lopez, was named the 2025–26 Hometeam Male Athlete of the Year on July 22 after a record-setting four-year career in both football and basketball at Leominster High.

Lopez impressed coaches with his stats + leadership and will begin his collegiate football career at Coastal Carolina University.

Miss Fairchild Concert

8-11 p.m. — Off The Rails — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening of live music with Miss Fairchild in Worcester.

Comedy Night with Christine Hurley

Doors 6:30 PM — Samuel Slater's Restaurant — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughs with top comedians Christine Hurley and James Dorsey.

Ekoh Concert

7-10 p.m. — Palladium — Tickets from $47 — Experience the electrifying live performance of hip-hop artist Ekoh.

Worcester Red Sox vs. Lehigh Valley IronPigs

12:05-1:05 p.m. — Polar Park — $40-$50 — Reserve your parking now for a thrilling game between rivals at Polar Park.

Summer Dance Intensive Week

Various times — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Cost information not specified — A week-long immersive program for young dancers to explore various dance styles and techniques.

Sonoma at the Beechwood: 5-Course Beer Dinner

Join Sonoma Restaurant at the Beechwood Hotel on Thursday, August 13, for an exclusive Five-Course Summer Beer Dinner featuring chef-crafted cuisine expertly paired with premium craft beers from some of New England's finest breweries. Tickets are $85 per person; reservations are required by calling 508-453-1174.