Quannapowitt Players Present Something Intangible
2026-04-04 20:00 (America/New_York) | Quannapowitt Players, 55 Hopkins St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Bruce Graham’s drama explores the clash between art and commerce at a Hollywood animation studio as World War II begins, running March 20 through April 4
Reading, MA — There are two very different brothers who run a Hollywood movie studio known for its’ cartoon dog, Petey Pup. The creative brother wants to produce a feature-length animated film set to classical music. His loyal brother manages everything else. Set against the backdrop of the US’s entry into World War II in 1941, this thinly veiled critique of a certain cartoon mogul highlights the tension between art and commerce as the world face and adapt to new challenges.
Directed by Andrew Boncoddo, and featuring Adam Heroux, Nick Miller, Jenny Fielding, Gordon Ellis & Nathan Mabanglo-Burgett, “Something Intangible” will open March 20th and runs through April 4th.
Single tickets are $27, $25 for Seniors/Students, $20 for Groups of 10+, and can be purchased online at qptheater.com/box-office/. Or for reservations, call the QP Box Office at (781) 942-2212. Checks and cash are accepted at performances, as well as Credit
Cards for a small fee. Friday and Saturday performances are at 8 PM. Sunday performances are at 2 PM.

Whitelam Books to Host Reading Resident Dave Williams to Share Birding Expertise
2026-04-08 19:00 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Whitelam Books is pleased to welcome Reading resident and avid birder Dave Williams on Wednesday, April 8 at 7:00PM. Dave will be presenting a talk entitled “Words on Birds”. Whitelam Books is located in downtown Reading at 610 Main Street, near the intersection of Haven Street and Main Street.
This event is free and open to the public – all are welcome!
About the Event:
A former elementary and middle school science teacher in Reading, Dave is a graduate of Mass Audubon’s “Birders Certificate Program”, a year-long study of birds. He also attended Maine Audubon’s Hog Island Field Ornithology program. Dave has been birding for more than 45 years in Alaska, Texas, SE Arizona, Florida and throughout New England.
Presently, Dave works part-time at Mass Audubon’s Joppa Flats sanctuary in Newburyport where he leads bird walks. Dave loves to share his passion and enthusiasm for birds with others. Come join him and learn all about what’s happening with birds in and around Reading!

Ayelet Katz to Demonstrate Painting Techniques in Reading
2026-04-08 19:30 | First Congregational Church of Reading, 25 Woburn Street, Reading, MA, United States
New England artist to present oils and watercolor demo April 8 at First Congregational Church

Reading, MA — The Reading Art Association will host a demonstration by New England–based artist Ayelet Katz on April 8 at 7:30 pm at the First Congregational Church on Woburn Street in Reading.
Katz works primarily in oils and watercolor, with plein air painting central to her artistic process. She is currently studying with Eva Cincotta, a member of the Rockport Art Association and an active participant in the Malden Sketch Group. Katz also serves as an art instructor at the Everett Art Association.
Entrance to the demonstration is through the side door of the church on Sanborn Street.

Representative Jones Holding District Office
2026-04-10 10:15 - 11:15 | Pleasant Street Center, 49 Pleasant St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) will be holding his monthly district office hours in Reading on Friday, April 10 from 10:15-11:15 a.m. at the Pleasant Street Center, located at 49 Pleasant Street.
During office hours, Representative Jones or a member of his staff will be available at the center to meet with constituents on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointment is necessary.
“I encourage Reading residents to stop by the Pleasant Street Center during office hours to discuss any issues of concern they may have, including questions about legislation and accessing government services,” said Representative Jones. “We are always happy to assist in any way we can and to be a resource to the community.”
Constituents who are unable to attend local office hours can schedule an appointment to meet with Representative Jones at a more convenient time by calling (617) 722-2100 or e-mailing his District Aide, Brittany Carisella, at Brittany.Carisella@mahouse.gov. Representative Jones can be reached at Bradley.Jones@mahouse.gov.
Reading office hours take place on the second Friday of every month at the Pleasant Street Center.

CROFT is Coming Home to RMHS for Special Screening
2026-04-10 19:00 | RMHS Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
April 10 at 7:00 PM – One Night Only
READING, MA — The documentary CROFT will return to where the story began with a special one-night-only screening at Reading Memorial High School on Thursday, April 10, at 7:00 PM. The event will include a post-film Q&A with filmmaker and Reading track legend Hal Croft.
The film tells the remarkable story of Hal Croft, a Reading Memorial High School teacher and track and field coach whose program achieved an unprecedented 29-year undefeated dual-meet streak — 252 consecutive victories — a national record. Beyond the track, Croft was a beloved English teacher who inspired generations of students and athletes.
A Vietnam War veteran, Croft returned home to build one of the most successful high school track programs in American history, influencing thousands of students. His career earned him honors, including National Track Coach of the Year and the Disney/McDonald’s National Teacher of the Year award.
Today, living on Cape Cod in retirement, Croft reflects on a life marked by achievement, challenge, and lasting impact. The documentary follows his journey as an educator, mentor, and competitor whose legacy continues to resonate.
Tickets for the April 10 screening are available now. Seats are limited.

AprilFest Set for Reading Common April 16
2026-04-15 17:00 - 20:00 | Reading Town Common, 16 Lowell Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Community celebration hosted by the Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce features music, food, fire tables, and family-friendly fun from 5–8 PM

Reading, MA — The Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce invites the community to celebrate spring at AprilFest on the Reading Common, taking place on Thursday, April 16, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM.
Originally planned as the Chamber’s annual WinterFest in March, the event was postponed due to heavy snow covering the Reading Town Common. With warmer weather and open space now available, organizers are excited to bring the celebration to life as AprilFest.
First established in 2022, WinterFest—now AprilFest—serves as the Chamber’s annual outdoor celebration of downtown Reading, designed to bring the community together in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere as winter transitions into spring.
This free event, made possible by local sponsors, will feature a variety of activities and attractions, including fire tables and s’mores, live music, local food vendors, beer and wine, and illuminated ice sculptures. Attendees can also explore booths hosted by local businesses and craft artisans.
Community members are encouraged to stroll through downtown, visit local shops and restaurants, and reconnect with friends and neighbors after the long winter season.
For more information, visit the Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce.

Rep. Haggerty to Hold Community Office Hours
2026-04-16 10:30 - 11:30 | Pleasant Street Center, 49 Pleasant St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
State Representative Richard M. Haggerty (D-Woburn) will be holding office hours, Thursday, April 16th, 2025.
The office hours will take place from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at the Woburn Senior Center, and at Caffé Nero, 676 Main Street, Reading, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM.
Representative Haggerty, or a member of his staff, will be on hand during these hours to meet with Woburn and Reading residents. The office hours will be held on a first-come, first-served basis with no prior appointment necessary.
“Reading and Woburn residents are welcome to attend my office hours if they have any questions or need assistance with legislative or government matters,” said Representative Haggerty. “My office is always happy to provide help and serve the community however we can.”
If constituents are unable to attend any of these sessions, they can contact his office at (617) 722-2575 or email his Staff Director, Zack Dhaliwal, at Zack.Dhaliwal@mahouse.gov. Representative Haggerty can also be reached directly at Richard.Haggerty@mahouse.gov.

Voices of Hope to perform Curtains at North Shore Music Theatre
2026-04-19 14:00 | MA
A Killer Musical Comedy Takes Center Stage
Get ready for a night of music, mystery, and nonstop laughter when Voices of Hope presents Curtains at North Shore Music Theatre on Saturday, April 18, at 8:00 PM and Sunday, April 19, at 2:00 PM. Set in 1959 at Boston’s historic Emerson Colonial Theatre, this wildly entertaining musical comedy begins with a bang when the leading lady of a Broadway-bound show is mysteriously murdered on opening night. A theater-loving Boston detective jumps in to solve the case, leading audiences through a hilarious backstage “whodunit” filled with clever twists, dazzling dance numbers, and the unforgettable Broadway sound of Kander and Ebb (Chicago, Cabaret).
This lively production combines classic Broadway glamour with a meaningful cause. Featuring a talented local cast from Reading and the surrounding area, Curtains delivers high-energy entertainment while supporting cancer research through Voices of Hope, a nonprofit that has raised more than $1.2 million for the Termeer Center for Targeted Therapies at Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute. Join us for an unforgettable theatrical experience—come for the mystery, stay for the music, and help make every ticket count in the fight against cancer.
Tickets are $60 (Inner) and $50 (Upper) and can be purchased by calling 978-232-7200 or visiting www.nsmt.org. Performances take place at North Shore Music Theatre, 54 Dunham Road, Beverly, MA.

Learn a New Language at Reading Public Library
2026-04-23 18:30 - 20:00, 2026-04-30 18:30 - 20:00 | Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Avenue, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Free English classes, language learning tools, and resources available for all ages and skill levels
Reading, MA — The Reading Public Library (RPL) invites community members to explore new language learning opportunities through free classes and resources designed for all ages and skill levels.
Beginning Thursday, April 23, the library will offer an eight-week Beginner English Class for adults. Held from 6:30–8:00 PM, the class is designed to help participants build confidence and improve speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. The program is led by RPL Librarian Ashley Cristiano, who has more than five years of experience teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and specializes in working with adult beginners. No registration is required—participants may simply attend.
For those who prefer to learn at home, Mango Languages is available free with a library card. This online platform offers lessons in a wide range of languages, including Portuguese, Arabic, English, and American Sign Language, allowing users to learn at their own pace.
Families can also access LOTE4Kids, a digital collection featuring more than 4,500 picture books in over 70 languages, making it easy for children to enjoy stories in their native language or discover new ones.
In addition, the library offers translation tools for borrowing, including a Language Translator for documents and the PockeTalk Translator for real-time conversations. These devices are available at any service desk.
The Reading Public Library remains committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can learn and grow. For more information, visit the library or explore its website.

Celebrate National Steak Day with Post 1917
2026-04-25 | Post 1917, 136 Haven St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Local steakhouse offers farm-to-table cuts and expert insight from butcher to plate
Reading, MA — In celebration of National Steak Day on Saturday, April 25, Post 1917 invites the community to experience premium cuts, innovative preparation, and the artistry behind a perfectly cooked steak.
Post 1917, a modern steakhouse with locations in Reading and Lexington, blends a sophisticated city feel with local charm. The restaurant is the first venture from Chef Jason Carron, a seasoned restaurateur and steak expert with more than 20 years of experience transforming dining establishments across New England.
With a team of culinary professionals drawn from some of the state’s top restaurants, Post 1917 emphasizes farm-to-table sourcing, exceptional quality, and creative presentation. The menu is nearly entirely gluten-free and centers on carefully selected USDA Prime beef cuts from Brandt Farms, alongside classic steakhouse offerings and inventive dishes.
Featured steak selections include:

Filet (10 oz) – $66
New York Strip (16 oz, Brandt Prime) – $73
Ribeye (16 oz, Brandt Prime) – $83
Bone-In Ribeye (22 oz, Brandt Prime) – $91
Long Bone (32 oz) – $125
Steak Frites (10 oz sliced flank steak with chimichurri and truffle fries) – $51

Post 1917 Steakhouse is located at 136 Haven St, Reading, MA 01867

Mission of Deeds to Host Yard Sale Fundraiser
2026-04-25 09:00 - 11:00 | Mission of Deeds, 6 Chapin Avenue, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
April 25 event offers discounted items to support beds and furniture for families in need

READING, MA — Mission of Deeds, a nonprofit organization serving Middlesex and Essex counties, will hold its semi-annual yard sale on Saturday, April 25, from 9 to 11 a.m. in its parking lot at 6 Chapin Avenue.
The event is an important fundraiser supporting the organization’s mission to provide new beds, gently used furniture, and household items to individuals and families in need. Mission of Deeds often receives donated items that are not suitable for clients but still hold value; those items are offered for sale at deeply discounted prices during the yard sale.
Mission of Deeds has been serving the community for more than 30 years from its downtown Reading location, furnishing nearly 17,000 homes. The organization assists individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, recovering from fire or flood, or otherwise facing hardship, with referrals made by professionals in an official capacity. Mission of Deeds does not receive government funding.
Known locally as a popular community event, the yard sale regularly draws large crowds, with lines forming before opening. Shoppers can expect a wide selection of high-quality items at bargain prices, with proceeds directly supporting the purchase of new beds and the organization’s general operations.
For more information, visit https://www.missionofdeeds.org/.

Wakefield Arts & Crafts Society to Host “Americana” Exhibit
2026-04-25 09:00 - 14:00 | Wakefield-Lynnfield United Methodist Church, 273 Vernon St, Wakefield, MA, 01880, United States
Annual craft sale features handmade goods, demonstrations, and raffle on April 25
Wakefield, MA — Community invited to explore handmade works, live demonstrations, and a century-old tradition on April 25
The Wakefield Arts & Crafts Society will hold its Annual Exhibit and Craft Sale, themed “Americana,” on Saturday, April 25, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Wakefield-Lynnfield United Methodist Church.
The exhibit will feature a wide variety of handcrafted items created by Society members from Wakefield and surrounding communities over the past year. Attendees can also view collaborative workshop pieces, learn about the group’s charitable efforts, and browse themed items inspired by Americana.
In addition to the exhibit, the event will include live crafting demonstrations by members, a homemade cookie sale to benefit the organization, a craft supply sale, and a raffle featuring a handmade quilt and a needle-felted wall hanging.
Founded more than 100 years ago, the Wakefield Arts & Crafts Society continues to bring together individuals with a shared passion for creativity and community. The group meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 10:00 AM in the church hall and welcomes new members of all skill levels, including beginners.
Admission and parking for the event are free. The venue is fully accessible.
Community members are encouraged to attend and support local artisans while celebrating a long-standing tradition of craftsmanship and creativity.

Whitelam Books Celebrates Indie Bookstore Day & Book Trail Weekend
2026-04-25 10:00 - 17:30, 2026-04-26 11:00 - 16:00 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Free two-day event in downtown Reading features giveaways, exclusive merchandise, and a chance to win a year of audiobooks
Reading, MA — Whitelam Books is thrilled to participate in Independent Bookstore Day, a one-day national party that takes place at over 2,000 indie bookstores across the country, as well as the North of Boston Book Trail! We’ll be celebrating on Saturday, April 25 from 10:00AM – 5:30PM and we’ll continue the festivities on Sunday, April 26 from 11:00AM – 4:00PM. Whitelam Books is located in downtown Reading at 610 Main Street, near the intersection of Haven Street and Main Street.
This event is free and open to the public – all are welcome!
About the Event:
Join us at 10:00AM on the dot as owner Liz Whitelam rings a ceremonial bell to open the day! There will be exclusive Independent Bookstore Day merchandise on sale, as well as the ever-popular ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) Book Cart for a free book with the purchase of any 2 items! Come chat with local Reading VIPs who will be on hand throughout the weekend to say hello. Enjoy fun, surprises, and treats, while supplies last!
Additionally, one lucky in-store shopper will find the hidden Libro.FM Golden Ticket, granting a year of free audiobooks!
Whitelam Books is joining 19 other Independent Bookstores North of Boston to participate in the Second Annual North of Boston Book Trail. More than $5,500 in prizes are available! See how you can play and win: https://northofbostonbooktrail.com/

Old Time Sing-Along: From the Porch to the House of Prayer
2026-04-25 19:00 | Church of the Good Shepherd, 95 Woburn Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
An evening of bluegrass-inspired spiritual music featuring sing-along favorites that celebrate faith, fellowship, and community tradition
Reading, MA — The Church of the Good Shepherd, in collaboration with the First Congregational Church, invites the community to an evening of music on Saturday, April 25 at 7:00 PM.
“From the Porch to the House of Prayer” celebrates spiritual songs from the North American tradition, drawing on bluegrass and Southern traditional music. The program features heartfelt songs, lively instrumentals, and familiar choruses that invite audience participation.
These songs—once shared on porches, in houses of worship, and at community gatherings across the Appalachian South—carry themes of faith, perseverance, and fellowship through simple, powerful melodies.
All are welcome to come listen, sing, and share in a musical tradition where community and spirit meet.

Old South UMC to Host 11th Annual Tribute Concert
2026-04-26 16:00 | Old South Church, 6 Salem Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Free April 26 concert features local musicians, choirs, and ensembles in a beloved Reading tradition
Reading, MA — Free community concert returns April 26 with diverse performances by local musicians
Old South United Methodist Church will host its 11th Annual Tribute Concert on Sunday, April 26, at 4:00 PM, continuing a beloved Reading tradition that showcases the talents of local performers.
The concert will feature a wide variety of musical styles, with performances by instrumentalists, vocalists, choirs, and ensembles from the community. The event is free and open to the public. Donations and commemorative tributes submitted in advance will be recognized in a printed program booklet.
Following the concert, attendees are invited to enjoy refreshments and connect with fellow community members.
Located at the top of Reading Square, Old South United Methodist Church welcomes all to attend this special afternoon of music and community celebration.

The Civilians Trapped Behind the Boston Siege Lines
2026-04-29 19:00 | Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Avenue, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Join us on Wednesday, April 29, at 7 pm for the compelling story of the aftermath of the Battles of Lexington and Concord!
Reading Public Library (RPL), Reading, MA—You may have learned a lot about the Battle of Bunker Hill and the Evacuation of Boston; now take a closer look at the struggles of those trapped in Boston and their eﬀorts to survive.
Alexander Cain, JD, graduated from Merrimack College and obtained his Juris Doctor from the New England School of Law. He has authored numerous research articles and presentations on the American Revolution, including the experiences of New England and New York loyalist refugees during the Burgoyne Campaign. In addition, he has published two books: We Stood Our Ground: Lexington in the First Year of the American Revolution and I See Nothing but the Horrors of a Civil War: The Loyalists of McAlpin’s Corps of American Volunteers.

Reading Art Association Spring Show Returns with “Art in Bloom”
2026-05-01 19:30 - 21:00, 2026-05-02 10:00 - 15:00 | First Congregational Church of Reading, 25 Woburn Street, Reading, MA, United States
May 1–2 exhibit features 90+ artists, floral interpretations by Reading Garden Club, and art for sale at Congregational Church in Reading
Reading, MA — The Reading Art Association Spring Show returns this May with artwork of over 90 artist members representing surrounding towns and cities. The show will be held at the Congregational Church, Woburn Street in Reading on May 1st from 7:30 – 9:30, Saturday, May 2nd from 10:00 – 3:00. Entrance to Guild Hall, where the art show is held, is the middle side door on Sanborn Street.
On Friday night, there will be a reception with refreshments and an awards presentation at 8:30.
The Reading Garden Club has been invited to be part of the Spring Exhibit and will interpret paintings by RAA members using flowers and plants.
A RAA artist has generously donated a painting that will be won by someone. The raffle tickets are $1.00. You do not need to be present on Saturday to win the drawing.
Original works of art, mini-art, and unframed artwork will be on display and available for purchase during the weekend.
This promises to be a wonderful show and a great way to spend some time over the spring weekend.
The Reading Art Association was founded in 1958 to foster the arts in Reading, Mass. For more info about the association, visit readingart.org.

RMHS Drama Club Presents Clue: High School Edition
2026-05-01 19:30 - 21:00, 2026-05-02 19:30 - 20:00, 2026-05-03 14:00 - 17:00 | RMHS Performing Arts Center, 62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA — The Reading Memorial High School Drama Club proudly presents its spring production of Clue: High School Edition, written by Sandy Rustin.

Based on the iconic board game and inspired by the beloved 1985 film, this fast-paced comedy invites audiences to Boddy Manor, where six mysterious guests, one suspicious butler, and a mansion full of secrets collide in a night of comedic chaos. When the lights go out and the host turns up dead, everyone becomes a suspect. Follow along to uncover the secrets of Boddy Manor and the true identity of the murderer.

This special Student Showcase highlights the extraordinary talent of students both on and off stage. Featuring student direction, design, and performance, the production celebrates the creativity and leadership of the award-winning RMHS Drama Club.

Performance Dates:

Friday, May 1 at 7:30 PM

Saturday, May 2 at 7:30 PM

Sunday, May 3 at 2:00 PM

Location:William E. Endslow Performing Arts CenterReading Memorial High School62 Oakland Road, Reading, MA

Tickets:Available at www.rmhsdrama.org

Creative Team:

Directed by Jason Walsh ‘26

Assistant Directors: Natalie Cunha & Katie Donovan

Technical Directors: Lucas Reis ‘26 & Kevin Gerstner

Join us for an evening of mystery, mayhem, and comedy for the whole family as Clue comes to life on stage!

Wildfire Community Preparedness Day
2026-05-02 | MA
Wildland Fires Can Extend to Homes, Fire Service Leaders Say
STOW—Wildfire Community Preparedness Day is this weekend, and Massachusetts fire service leaders are providing residents with guidance on projects to protect their homes and neighborhoods while reducing the risk posed by wildland fires.
“Wildfire Community Preparedness Day promotes awareness of the wildland fire risk to people, property, and the environment, and how we can defend against it,” said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine. “Clearing flammable debris, creating an evacuation plan, and committing to outdoor fire safety can reduce the risk of a wildland fire damaging your home.”
“Wildland fires not only pose a risk to our open spaces but also to Massachusetts homes, businesses, and residents,” said Department of Conservation & Recreation Chief Fire Warden David Celino. “We see more than 1,000 of these fires in an average year, and late spring is usually the peak season. Some thoughtful yard work and planning this weekend can reduce the hazard to lives and property.”
Over 50% of Massachusetts homes are within the Wildland-Urban Interface zone, where development adjoins and mingles with the natural environment. Wildland fires in these areas can easily extend to homes, and residential fires can spark wildland fires that spread to hundreds of acres and tax regional fire resources.
Massachusetts experienced more than 1,100 wildland fires in an average year, in addition to hundreds of outdoor vegetation fires that can also spread to nearby structures. In the fall of 2024, wildland fires destroyed more than 30 homes, outbuildings, and other structures and placed hundreds more at risk.
Wildfire Community Preparedness Day is a chance to protect yourself and loved ones from these hazards by reducing flammable fuels from the area around your house. Wildland fires most often spread to homes via small flames or embers, and clearing the home and surrounding area – also known as the Home Ignition Zone – of dead vegetation, mulch, firewood, low branches, and other fuels can reduce that risk. A manageable one-day project could include:

Cleaning gutters and porches
Removing debris from under porches and stairs
Raking leaves and pine needles at least five feet from the foundation
Moving wood piles further from the structure.

Residents should also know what to do if evacuation from the neighborhood becomes necessary. Pack an emergency kit with three days’ worth of supplies for your family members. (You can learn more about emergency supply kits from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency). Plan two ways out of your house and identify two alternate travel routes out of the area in case your usual route is impassable. Be sure to let family members, guests, babysitters, and others know your home escape and evacuation plans.
Finally, almost all outdoor fires start with human activity – so everyone can also play a part in reducing the occurrence of wildland fires:

Never toss cigarette butts or other smoking materials in dry vegetation, mulch, or debris
Before setting up a campfire, be sure it is permitted by checking with the local fire department, and once lit attend to them at all times
Always have a hose, bucket of water, or shovel and dirt or sand nearby to put out the fire, and be sure the fire is out cold before leaving.
Keep grills at least 10’ from the house and away from low branches and shrubs
If using an ATV, dirt bike, or other off-road vehicle, be sure the spark arrestor is properly installed, as required by Massachusetts law
Don’t park an ATV, dirt bike, or other off-road vehicle on or near dry vegetation, and turn the engine off when stopped for an extended period of time

You can learn more about Wildfire Community Preparedness Day from the National Fire Protection Association, and more about wildland fire prevention from NFPA’s Firewise USA program.

Reading Public Library Outdoor Concert Series
2026-05-02 10:00 - 11:00 | Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Avenue, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Friends of the Library present free, family-friendly performances all spring, launching with Little Groove and celebrating the new terrace opening
Reading, MA — The Friends of the Reading Public Library Outdoor Concert Series kicks off on Saturday, May 2 at 10 am, launching a season of free, family-friendly performances at the Reading Public Library.
The concert series will run throughout May and into early June, featuring music and entertainment for children, families, and audiences of all ages. The opening performance welcomes toddler-friendly band Little Groove, followed by a variety of returning favorites and new acts.
Highlights include the return of the King Serpent Variety Troupe with its outlaw-style blend of singing, dancing, and storytelling, as well as performances by Speechless Pop Strings Duo, Fly By Brass Band, and other engaging musical groups. Several concerts are specifically geared toward younger children, offering interactive and age-appropriate experiences.
All concerts will take place outdoors, inviting the community to enjoy live music while taking in the spring weather on the library’s new terrace.
Concert Schedule:

Saturday, May 2 at 10 am: Little Groove (ages 0–5)
Monday, May 4 at 2 pm: King Serpent Variety Troupe
Wednesday, May 6 at 7 pm: Speechless Pop Strings Duo
Friday, May 8 at 10 am: Stacey Peasley (ages 0–5)
Tuesday, May 26 at 7 pm: Fly By Brass Band
Friday, May 29 at 10 am: Sulinha’s Music Trio (ages 0–5)
Saturday, May 30 at 10 am: Mara & Motoko (ages 0–5)
Friday, June 5 at 10 am: Rockabye Beats (ages 0–5)
Friday, June 12 at 10 am: Peter Sheridan (ages 0–5)

The community is also invited to celebrate the official opening of the Library Terrace on Thursday, June 4, at 7 pm. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will be followed by light refreshments, and the event is free and open to the public.
For more information and a full schedule of events, visit the Reading Public Library calendar online.

Scottish Prisoners of War in Reading During the American Revolution
2026-05-02 13:30 | Reading Public Library, 64 Middlesex Avenue, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading Public Library hosts historian Christopher Hall for a deep dive into the capture and imprisonment of Highland soldiers in 1776 Massachusetts
Reading, MA — Join the Reading Public Library and Reading Antiquarian Society as Chris Hall presents his talk on Scottish Prisoners of War in Reading and Beyond During the American Revolution.
In June 1776, the 71st Regiment of Foot, British Army soldiers from the highlands of Scotland, were captured by American privateers in Boston Harbor. The regiment, along with their families, servants, and families of their servants, were imprisoned and paroled across Massachusetts. The Lieutenant Colonel of this regiment, Archibald Campbell, was paroled at the Parker Tavern in Reading, and his Officers were paroled in an encampment nearby. This talk will investigate the contextual wartime dynamic during which this regiment was kept as prisoners of war, and the effect it had on Patriots, Loyalists, and everyday people in Reading and across Massachusetts.
The program will begin at 1:30 on May 2 at Reading Public Library in the A/B conference room, but come early to mingle with other history buffs!
Christopher Hall, the caretaker at Parker Tavern, will give the talk. He also works in other capacities for the National Park Service as a historical interpreter in Boston.

Whitelam Books to Host Double Author Story Time with Lisa Varchol Perron & Monica Acker
2026-05-02 15:00 - 17:00 | Whitelam Books, 610 Main Street, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Reading, MA – Whitelam Books is thrilled to welcome back children’s authors Lisa Varchol Perron and Monica Acker. Lisa will be reading from her new picture book Kite Day, and Monica will be sharing her picture book Brave Like Mom, on Saturday, May 2 at 3:00PM. Join us for this family-friendly event for readers of all ages. Whitelam Books is located in downtown Reading at 610 Main Street, near the intersection of Haven Street and Main Street.
Books will be available for purchase and signing. This event is free and open to the public – all are welcome!
About the Event:
Join us for a special double author story time honoring a mother’s love through difficult times with Lisa Varchol Perron (Kite Day) and Monica Acker (Brave Like Mom).
Kite Day: Mamuś and her son love Kite Days. But conditions have to be right. Sometimes the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, and the day is calling… But it’s still not a Kite Day. Sometimes the clouds roll in, and the wind is too strong… And they still try for a Kite Day. But when their string gets tangled and the light gets dim, they must stay inside and wait for their next chance at a Kite Day.
Navigating worry, anger, sadness and disappointment, Mamuś and her son fly their kite together. While her mood mirrors the kite’s motions – gently rising, twisting in the wind, tangling in a tree, and crashing to the ground – the pair continue to try. Despite the ups and downs, their love is, and will always remain, constant.
An honest yet hopeful glimpse into a child’s experience with a parent who has bipolar illness or other mood-related struggles, including concrete suggestions for young readers who are concerned about a loved one, this is a key social and emotional learning (SEL) book for young readers and loved ones navigating a mental health illness.
Brave Like Mom: As one girl watches her mom battle illness, she sees Mom being strong, brave, and fierce on both good days and bad ones. Mom is fierce as she catches and wrestles a fish and brave as she endures needles from the doctor. The girl wants to be brave like Mom! As she worries about her mom’s health, the girl realizes that bravery comes in many forms and that she can be brave too.
A poignant and sensitive story about a loved one living with a chronic illness, and an important lesson about how being brave doesn’t mean you aren’t scared.

Get Ready for Derby Day at Post 1917! 🌹🐎
2026-05-02 17:00 - 20:00 | Post 1917, 136 Haven St, Reading, MA, 01867, United States
Celebrate the Run for the Roses at Post 1917’s Annual Derby Watch Party in Reading. The event takes place in the restaurant’s brand-new private room and includes passed appetizers, a handcrafted Mint Julep, and all the excitement of race day.
Dress to impress for the Best Dressed Hat Competition—winners will receive a Post 1917 gift bag and a $250 dining gift card.
Saturday, May 2
5–8 PM
$50 (plus tax & fees) via Eventbrite
Limited tickets available
Grab your tickets and join the fun!

Friends of the Reading Public Library House Tour Returns May 3
2026-05-03 13:00 - 17:00 | MA
Annual fundraiser showcases eight unique homes, supports library programs year-round
Reading, MA — The Friends of the Reading Public Library are excited to announce the return of the Friends’ House Tour, May 3, 2026! The tour will run from 1:00 to 5:00. This is our longest-running fundraising event. The 2026 Tour features several beautiful and unique homes of Reading. Eight generous homeowners have opened their homes to support the Reading Public Library. Take note of the details each has incorporated to make their home special. Many have extended their vision outside as well.
Ticket booklets are $30 per person and available at the Reading Library and at Whitelam Books. Ticket booklets are $35 on the day of the tour.
Thanks to our many generous sponsors and ticket sales, this is our biggest fundraiser, supporting many programs at the library throughout the year.
For more Friends information, visit friendsofreadingpl.org

Friends of the Reading Public Library House Tour
2026-05-03 13:00 - 17:00 | MA
