Good morning, Worcester.

Residents can cut their own Christmas tree at many farms in Central Massachusetts—options include Bell Brook Farm in West Brookfield that requires reservations and Deer Run Tree Farm in Princeton offering wagon rides and cider, with several other farms providing traditional holiday experiences.

Donations from readers, local businesses, and civic organizations helped T&G Santa purchase toys for nearly 10,000 children identified by more than 20 partner groups, including United Way of Central Massachusetts—organizers say they need continued community support to keep the program running.

On Thanksgiving, Ziggy Bombs replaced its usual steak subs with turkey dinners and served over 200 free meals to the homeless near Worcester Common.

The owner, Mike Devish, said the second-year event also provided new clothes and care packages from local sponsors and volunteers — reinforcing a strong local community effort.

After being struck by lightning and burning down in 2023, the historic church at 207 Main St. is being rebuilt in Spencer.

The new building will be a smaller, modern space designed for 100 worshippers—its reconstruction is expected to finish by the middle of next year while parishioners continue services at a sister church.

Mo Rocca from CBS Sunday Morning will speak at Worcester State University on Dec.

3 in a free event where he shares stories and signs books—registration is required. The event is organized by the Museum of Worcester and the university—taking place at the Sullivan Auditorium.

Bruce Mendelsohn of MassHire Central reviewed Massachusetts job market trends on Talk of the Commonwealth, noting that unemployment climbed to 4.8% this year—above his 3.7% forecast—and he said clean energy, skilled trades and jobs needing AI tools will grow in 2026.

Ryan Kittredge of ClearPath Financial Partners welcomed Andrew Zawada from Zawada Insurance Agency as they discussed how smart auto and property coverage protected long-term financial plans—Andrew explained that independent agencies can shop policies among carriers and that higher deductibles may help guard against rising rates and claims costs.

Millbury police said a temporary exit-only route will ease traffic at The Shops at Blackstone Valley during the holiday season on weekends and non-school hours—located left of Dick's Sporting Goods and guiding shoppers past Shaw Elementary to Elmwood Street connecting to Route 146—until the holidays end.

Dr. Charles Steinberg explained that the WooSox ’26 theme song was inspired by growing fan energy at Polar Park and by three generations of Worcester baseball fans — he previewed the tune at a local event.

2025 Trot With Ted 5K, 10K and Kids Fun Run

9:30 a.m. — Tantasqua Regional High School — $30 registration fee — Run for a good cause to fund educational grants for local teachers while enjoying family-friendly competition.

Handel's Messiah Performance

8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — Mechanics Hall — Ticket purchase required — Experience the Worcester Chorus as they perform the timeless holiday classic, Handel's Messiah.

Sans Souci Tribute to JGB

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Electric Haze Llc — Tickets starting at $15.44 — Enjoy a night of alternative rock with a tribute to JGB.

New England Winter Market

9 AM-6 PM — DCU Center — Check Official Website — Experience a festive market filled with local artisans, gourmet foods, and holiday cheer.

Saves The Day and Glassjaw Concert

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Palladium — $TBA — Experience an electrifying evening with indie rock legends in a vibrant venue.

45th Annual Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Concert

8-10 p.m. — Mechanics Hall — $47+ — Experience Worcester's festive holiday celebration with the Massachusetts Symphony and special guest performances.

Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay

8:30-9:30 p.m. — Mechanics Hall — $25.65 — Experience the music of Coldplay in a candlelit setting for a unique musical celebration.

A Christmas Carol

7:00 – 8:30 PM — The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts — Tickets from $102 — Enjoy a classic holiday tale brought to life in a stunning theatrical performance.

Fourth Annual Royal Holiday Ball

6-11 p.m. — Courtyard by Marriott Worcester — Cost not specified — Experience a magical evening of celebration, dancing, and festive treats fit for royalty.

Sans Souci Tribute to JGB

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Electric Haze Llc — Tickets starting at $15.44 — Experience a tribute to JGB with live alternative rock music.