The Guide to North Central Massachusetts – Winter 2022 by Visit North Central Massachusetts

The Guide to Massachusetts FREE visitma.com In Issue...ThisJohnny Appleseed Country Winter 2022-23 It’s Ski Season! Art on the Wall Tunes & CalendarTapsofEvents

• Pick-Your-Own Seasonal Fruits • Fresh Cider Donuts • Cider Slushies • Fruit-Topped Ice Cream • Farm Animals • Country Store • Hiking Trails • Restaurant & Taproom • Moon Hill Beer on Tap • Seasonal Fruit Flavors • Farm Fresh Hard Cider • Country Classic BBQ • Live Music • Fresh Farm Fruit • 100% Natural Cider • Cider Donuts & Farm Treats • Hot Chocolate/Cider • Warm Cider Donuts • Fresh Fudge & Farm Treats Year RoundYear RoundVISIT Boston Public Market 100 Hanover St, Boston, MA BostonPublicMarket.org Wachusett Mountain Ski Area 499 Mountain Rd, Princeton, MA Wachusett.com Your Family Farm 455 Highland Ave, Phillipston, MA RedAppleFarm.com Brew Barn & Cidery 455 Highland Ave, Phillipston, MA BrewBarnMA.com Join the fun! Tag and follow @RedAppleFarm and @BrewBarnAndCidery

Fall | Winter 2022 1 The Guide to North Central JohnnyMassachusettsAppleseedCountry visitma.com Visit North MassachusettsCentral General Information Center & Main Visitor Center Phone: Volunteer978-534-2302&Sponsoring Member Information Phone: 978-534-2829 The Guide to North Central Massachusetts is published semi-annually to help visitors discover the pleasures of the region. This complimentary publication is distributed through the state tourist information center; AAA offices in CT, MA & RI; and sponsoring member locations serving visitors and newcomers to North Central Massachusetts. Write to us at 1000 Route 2 Westbound, Lancaster, MA 01523. Publisher: Roy Nascimento Executive Editor: Diane Burnette Managing Editor: Patricia L. Gale Editorial Production: Sitka Creations® LLC Contributors to this issue: Norm Eggert, Katie Young, Diane Burnette, Pat Gale, Shaun Sutner, Mitchell R. Grosky, Jessica Woodward Funded, in part, by The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism For statewide planning information, visit www.visitma.com ABOUT THE COVER: 184 2 Where's Johnny? • FARMS & FOOD 4 It’s Festival Season! 6 Choices, Choices 8 Tunes & Taps • GREAT OUTDOORS 14 Trails Less Traveled 40 There’s "Snow Time" Like Ski Season • THINGS TO SEE & DO 10 Visit... If You Dare! 12 Groton Hill: New Season, New Center 16 The Chair Luge is Back! 20 East & West 22 They’ve Got Talent 32 Art on the Wall 34 Hot Tickets 36 Reviving a Tradition 38 See the Light(s)! • 24-31CALENDARCalendarofEvents • &DESTINATIONSADVERTISERS18ShortStops42PlacestoVisit48DirectoryofAdvertisers&Lodging Fall Edition: Photo by Mitchell R. Grosky The 1761 Old Mill Restaurant, Westminster. Winter Edition: Photo by Diane Burnette Rocky the mannequin on Rockwell Pond. IN THIS ISSUE... @VisitNCM@visitnorthcentralma@visitnorthcentralmassachusetts311214

VisitNorthCentral.com2

Where’s Johnny?

o you made the trip from near or far, landing smack in the middle of North Central Massachusetts. You’re in Johnny Appleseed Country. But where’s Johnny? Of course, John Chapman — who gained legendary status as a sower of seeds and planter of apple orchards — has faded into history. Born in Leominster in 1774, Johnny spent his youth here before heading west as the fledgling nation expanded. But his hometown still honors him in many ways. Drive around the city, and you’ll see a host of parks, schools and streets bearing Johnny’s name. Want to meet this legend, up close and personal? A youthful version of Johnny has been welcoming travelers to the Johnny Appleseed Visitor Center on Route 2 for years. Stop by for a selfie! And there’s more! An oversized statue, carved from wood, stands proudly in City Hall, on West Street in downtown Leominster, and a brand-new biggerthan-life bust, crafted by a local chainsaw artist, now graces the remodeled Visitor Center, providing yet another photo op for visitors. And throughout the year, you’re likely to run into Johnny — in the form of a local re-enactor — who is known to stop by fairs and festivals, chatting with visitors and sharing the story of Leominster’s hometown legend. Want to learn more about Johnny? The Visitor Center on Route 2 Westbound in Lancaster has a number of books about his life and times, geared to all ages! §

22–28

Participating businesses throughout the City FEBRUARY 2

Participating addresses throughout

For

Ongoing

facebook.com/leominstercommunitydevelopment or

MARKET

JANUARY 19 INDOOR

Sun – Sat, All Day the City Of Leominster 21 INDOOR DRIVE-IN MOVIE NIGHT Tuesday, 5:30pm Tata Auditorium at Leominster City Hall ONCE UPON A TIME Friday, 10am – 2pm Tata Auditorium at Leominster City Hall leominster-ma.gov are subject to change or postponement. the most current event head to Leominster Community Development.

OCTOBER 1 TRACTOR PARADE Saturday, Downtown10am LEOMINSTER FARMERS MARKET Saturday, 11am – 2pm Monument Square CANNOLI FESTIVAL Monday, 5pm – 9pm Downtown 17 LEOMINSTER FRIGHTS till Nov 1, All Day the City HALLOWEEN PARADE Saturday, 1pm – 3pm Downtown 31 TRICK OR TREAT Monday, 6pm – 8pm City of Leominster INDOOR FARMERS MARKET Thursday, 4pm – 6pm Tata Auditorium at Leominster City Hall FESTIVAL OF TREES Ongoing till Dec 19, Hours Vary Tata Auditorium at Leominster City Hall SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY Saturday, All Day the City LEOMINSTER LIGHTS Fri / Sat / Sun, 5pm – 10pm the City WINTER STROLL Saturday, 3pm – 5pm Downtown 3 PARADE OF LIGHTS & TREE LIGHTING Saturday, Downtown5pm INDOOR FARMERS MARKET Thursday, 4pm – 6pm Tata Auditorium at Leominster City Hall FARMERS MARKET Thursday, 4pm – 6pm Tata Auditorium at Leominster City Hall GARDENMANIA Thursday, 6pm – 8pm Tata Auditorium at Leominster City Hall COFFEE CRAWL Sun – Sat, All Day GROUNDHOG DAY WITH FEATHERSTONE Thursday, Monument8amSquare INDOOR FARMERS Thursday, 4pm – 6pm Tata Auditorium at Leominster City Hall LEOMINSTER RESTAURANT WEEK

Celebrate the seasons in Leominster SEPTEMBER 3 LEOMINSTER FARMERS MARKET Saturday, 11am – 2pm Monument Square 9 FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL Friday, 5pm – 9pm Downtown 13 DINING UNDER THE STARS Tuesday, 6pm – 10pm Downtown 17 CITYWIDE YARD SALE Saturday, 8am – 3pm Participating addresses throughout the City

19–25

Participating businesses throughout

information,

DECEMBER 2–25

Events

Participating addresses throughout

NOVEMBER 17

Food&Farms

We’ll be honest. There is no “festival season” in North Central Massachusetts — because the celebrations continue year-round! Yes, there’s always something to celebrate here: the ripening of the first juicy, red strawberries in June; the heavy-laden blueberry bushes in July; the opening of the cheery yellow sunflowers in August… right through to the sparkling wonderland of winter. But for beautiful, bounteous seasons worthy of celebration, it’s hard to beat autumn in New England. Apple trees hanging heavy with luscious, crunchy fruit; bright orange pumpkins dotting expansive fields; farmstand tables piled high with freshly-harvested veggies — all set against the glorious colors of fall foliage. A family road trip through the countryside just to marvel at the colors of Nature is, by itself, a worthwhile adventure. But plan a stop or two along the way — because there’s just so much happening here in the fall! Some Top Picks Sure, you’ve carved a scary (or funny) jack-o-lantern to set on your porch for Halloween. Or prepared a small, sweet pumpkin to bake a luscious pie for your dinner table. But here's a tip: You haven't seen PUMPKINS until you’ve stopped by the Pumpkin Weigh-In that’s held each October in Phillipston! For years, this pumpkin festival was held on the Phillipston Common, with the scales set against a backdrop of the Congregational Church. But in recent years, it’s moved up to the spacious grounds of the Red Apple Farm, where it’s now presented by the Massachusetts Giant Pumpkin Association. These aren’t just big pumpkins. They are huge pumpkins… jaw-dropping pumpkins… monstrous pumpkins. You just have to see them to believe how big these veggies can be! If you’ve never seen these mammoth gourds, mark your calendar now, and head to Phillipston on October 9! The Red Apple Farm, by the way, has a full fall line-up of festivals, so you’ll want to visit again and again. Labor Day Weekend, of course, is the official kick-off of autumn — and it’s jam-packed with activities during the annual Appleseed Country Fair. Live music on two stages all weekend. Crafters and vendors. Barbecue stands and food trucks. Locally-crafted beers and cider in the brew barn. And, of course, apple picking, hayrides, and lots of things for the kids to do! Pumpkins are the focus, too, at the Ashby Pumpkin Festival, held on the town common on September 24. The spotlight is on apples at the Cream of the Crop Macoun Weekend at Leominster’s Sholan Farms on September 24 and 25 and Wachusett Ski Area’s Applefest on October 15 and 16 and Oct 22 and 23. And for a totally different taste (and smell) treat, be sure to check out the Garlic and Arts Festival in Orange on October 1 and 2. Yes, we said garlic — you can just follow your nose to this pungent celebration at Forster’s Farm. And be sure to return to Wachusett Mountain again and again, because the line-up of festivals, from Kids Fest to BBQ Fest, rolls right through the fall. But wait! There’s more! Farms and farm stands throughout the region will have their own harvest celebrations throughout the season, so no matter where your foliage-peeping drives and explorations take you, you’re sure to find famers shining the spotlight on their crops. Check out the corn maze at Lanni Orchards, and, of course, the giant MegaMaze at Davis Farmland in Sterling, where the festival fun, complete with music and terrific food, never seems to end. The food celebrations run right into in November, wrapping up with the Thanksgiving Harvest Festival at Red Apple Farm on November 19 and 20, where you can not only pick up just about everything you’ll need for your holiday dinner table, but enjoy some country-style games like haybale tossing before winter arrives. §

Festival Season!

VisitNorthCentral.com4 It’s

The Beer Garden at the Gardner Ale House, Oktoberfest. Pumpkins at the Appleseed Country Fair.

Fall | Winter 2022 5 Party in the Street While locally-grown food is the focus of many festivals in this historically agricultural region, there’s a whole lot more celebrating going on this fall! Here’s a hot tip: The Oktoberfest party in downtown Gardner includes a beer garden in front of —where else? — the Gardner Ale House! Ladies, get in the bierhaus spirit: Wear a Dirndle (Bavarian dress) to the Oktoberfest, post a photo on social media, and score a gift card or a drink and Bavarian sausage. Men and women at the event can also enter the Steinholding competition, with a shot at the state championships! Special events like these abound at community events during fall festival season! Take a tour and have a great time!! Check the Calendar section of this Guide for details on these amazing autumn events: • Food Truck Festival in downtown Leominster, Sept. 9 • Pepperell Fall Fest on Sept. 17 • Fabulous Fall Festival, Chair Luge and Oktoberfest in downtown Gardner, Sept. 24 • Blacksmith RenaissanceandFestival at Riverfront Park, Fitchburg, Oct. 1 • Cannoli Festival in downtown Leominster, Oct. 10 • Westminster Cracker Festival on Main Westminster,Street,Oct. 15 • Winchendon Fall Festival on Central Street, Oct. 22 Local Restaurants ww facebook.com/Winchendon-Fall-Festival-2285999178280306w.TownofWinchendon.com Blacksmith Festival. Appleseed Country Fair Music.

10 WWW.VISITNORTHCENTRAL.COM

Fortunately, the many orchards in North Central Massachusetts are filled with a mind-boggling array of apple varieties, waiting for you to decide which is best. Whether your goal is to bake a juicy apple cobbler, or to simply slice up a healthy treat for the kids, you’re sure to find a variety that suits your palate here.

So many apples… so hard to choose a favorite. Shiny red Galas. Pale green Granny Smiths. Yellow Delicious. Look past the color, to your planned use: Apples for pies. Apples for eating. Apples for sauce. Apples to store away into the winter months. Everyone seems to know an apple they consider the “best.” With so many choices, autumn is a special time in Johnny Appleseed’s back yard. Fruit hangs heavy on the trees, and families head into the orchards to enjoy the bounty of the season.

Every orchard or farmstand has its own specialties — and you’ll often find home-baked pies, freshpressed cider and other apple delights at these local markets, too. Recognizing the desire for family outings, many growers, like Lanni Orchards in Lunenburg, turn apple season into festival season as well — with music, hayrides, pie-baking contests and more. So fill your basket, tour the fields, savor the flavors, and enjoy your adventure in Johnny Appleseed’s backyard. §

the Guide — including Sholan Farms, the last working orchard in Johnny’s hometown; Red Apple Farm, Lanni Orchard, Meadowbrook Orchard, Carlson Orchard, Bolton Orchards and Hollis Hills Farm. Enjoy!

issue of VARIETY HARVEST BEST USES Baldwin October Eating / Pies Cortland September Eating / Sauce / Pies / Salad / Baking Delicious, Red October Eating / Salad Delicious, Golden October Eating / Sauce / Salad Empire October Eating Gala September Eating Ginger Gold August Eating / Sauce / Salad Granny Smith October Eating Jersey Mac August Eating Liberty September Eating Macoun October Eating / Sauce / Salad McIntosh September Eating / Sauce / Salad Milton August Eating Mutsu October Eating Northern Spy October Sauce / Pies Paula Red August Eating Red Free August Eating Rome October Eating / Pies Russet October Eating / Pies Spencer October Eating / Sauce / Pies Vista Bella July Eating An Apple Sampler from Johnny Appleseed CountryFood&Farms

Consider this: The Red Apple Farm in Phillipston offers 42 different varieties of the fruit that earned Johnny Appleseed his nickname! And a single tree in their orchard sports 100 different varieties of apples on its grafted branches. Cream of the Crop Sholan Farms, a 169-acre orchard operated by a volunteer organization, has more than three dozen varieties ripening from midAugust till late October. But the Friends of Sholan Farms celebrate the “Cream of the Crop” — their Macouns — in late September. It’s a great weekend to visit and see all that Sholan has to offer. But you don’t have to wait for a special event to visit a “youpick” spot like Hollis Hills Farm in Fitchburg, Meadowbrook Orchards in Sterling, or Brookfield Orchards. Apple season begins in July and runs right through October, so there’s always something great to pick. Many orchards and farmstands also have climatecontrolled storage, so you can keep coming back for more, even after the pick-your-own season is past. The hardest part might be deciding just what to take home!

VisitNorthCentral.com6

When you’re in Johnny Appleseed Country, it’s only natural to ask the obvious questions. What’s the best apple for eating? For pies? For whipping up a batch of applesauce? The answer to all those questions is easy: ItYes,depends.itdepends on who you ask, and when. If you’re asking someone who’s just devoured every last crumb of a pie made with Cort lands, you can bet the answer will be “Cor tland.” But residents whose grandmothers swore by McIntoshes for the iconic dessert (despite their tendency to turn mushy before the crust is properly baked) will answer — you guessed it! — Macs are tops. Take a drive up to the scenic Sholan Farms orchard in Leominster on September 22 or 23, and the “best apple” answer will be a resounding “Macoun”! It’s so good, in fact, that they’ve designated the Macoun as “Cream of the Crop” and designed an entire weekend of festivities to honor it. Clearly, the “best” apple is in the eye of the beholder! cider — with or without an alcoholic kick. Yes, there’s now locally-brewed hard apple cider, ready to put a tingle on your tastebuds. So, now that you’re ready to stock up, where can you find these delectable orbs? You’re in luck! The entire region is dotted with orchards, large and small, where you can pick your own or select your favorites from the farmstand. And you’ll find them here, in this

6 FarmersPMMarket Upper Common,

matinee performance at

October EVERY THURSDAY IN

Perfomance Fitchburg

Gabriel

Cicely

SEPTEMBER 25, 2 PM McDermott State University CenterStage 2 PM Sunday, Sept. 25. fitchburgstate.edu/centerstage. OCT. 4 PMMain St.

self-guided art discover tour Visit website for map of studio locations:

Studios

Additional details and ticket information can be found at

Adding Pattern, Adding Value Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm Street fitchburgartmuseum.org OCTOBER 6, 7 PM Rita Parisi shares “Gothic Victorian Tales” Fitchburg Historical Society Free, donations accepted For more information: call 978-345-1157 or visit www.fitchburghistoricalsociety.com OCTOBER 15, 10 AM - 1 PM The Rollstone Hill “Rock Walk” Walk will start and end at the boulder art gallery 960 Main Street Free event / 978-345-7000 Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, a friend, and don’t forget your camera! OCTOBER 23, 2 PM Women’s Caucus for Art. Fitchburg Historical Society “Drawing our Histories” Artist Talk and Creative workshop with Joanne Stowell and Massachusetts Women’s Caucus for Art. For more information: call 978-345-1157 or visit www.fitchburghistoricalsociety.com OCTOBER 29, 12 PM - 2 PM Trick Or Treat On Main Street Main Street OCTOBER 31, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Halloween City of Fitchburg November NOVEMBER 5, 6 PM Fitchburg History Trivia, “Turkey Day Edition” Fitchburg Historical Society Tickets: $25 For more information: call 978-345-1157 or visit www.fitchburghistoricalsociety.com NOVEMBER 11, 11 AM Fitchburg Veterans Day Ceremony 14 Wallace Avenue – Armory NOVEMBER 11, 9 AM – 5 PM VAU Fallen Heroes Memorial Monument Park NOVEMBER 26, ALL DAY Small Business Saturday Participating businesses throughout the City December DECEMBER 3, 5:30 PM Santa Parade & Holiday Tree Lighting Monument Park to Upper Common Main St. DECEMBER 3, 10 AM - 4 PM Cultural Council Winter Bazaar Fitchburg City Hall, 718 Main St. Shop local artisans with unique handmade gifts. January JANUARY 7, 2023 - MAY 28, 2023 Rania Matar: SHE expanded Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm Street fitchburgartmuseum.org February FEBRUARY 4, 2023 - JUNE 4, 2023 Paper Works Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm Street fitchburgartmuseum.org The City of Fitchburg Check our website and social media for updates on upcoming events. fitchburgma.gov All events are subject to change or postponement.

October 1, 2022 - January 8, 2023 Sosa: No Vehicles in the Park Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm Street fitchburgartmuseum.org

John

October 1, 2022 - January 16, 2023

October 1, 2022 - January 8, 2023 Carew (title TBD) Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm Street fitchburgartmuseum.org

Fitchburg

Fall | Winter 2022 Ongoing MONDAYS & TUESDAYS, 10 AM – 4 PM WEDNESDAYS, 10 AM- 6 PM Exhibition of Fitchburg History Fitchburg Historical Society Phoenix Building, 781 Main Street Free admission, donations accepted FIRST THURSDAYS OF EACH MONTH: Sept. 1st, Oct. 6th, Nov. 3rd, Dec. 1st, Jan. 5th, Feb. 2nd, March 2nd ‘First Thursdays intown Fitchburg’ Free admission to the Fitchburg Art Museum, Fitchburg Farmers Market, Pop-up events, special deals intown. Find our parking map, events guide and more details here: linktr.ee/intownfitchburg September EVERY THURSDAY IN SEPT. 4 PM - 6 FarmersPMMarket Upper Common, Main St. SEPTEMBER 10, 2022, 11 AM “Still Chasing the Fire” At Forest Hill Cemetery, Mt. Elam Road entrance Rain or shine / Free The Fitchburg Fire Department Honor Guard and 15th Mass Volunteer Infantry Civil War re-enactors will join us. SEPT. 17, 2022 - DEC. 31, 2022 Ron Rosenstock in Color Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm Street fitchburgartmuseum.org SEPTEMBER 21 & 22, 8 AM - 2 PM Citywide Yard Sale Map at: www.fitchburgyardsale.com Participating addresses throughout the City SEPTEMBER 24, 2022, 8 AM Fitchburg Veterans Council’s 8th annual 5K Hollis Hills / Registration starts at 8 AM Race starts at 9 AM SEPTEMBER 24, 6 PM Fitchburg History Trivia, School House Rock edition Fitchburg Historical Society Tickets: $25

SEPTEMBER 24 & 25, 11 AM - 5 PM Open Free fitchburgopenstudios.com

VisitNorthCentral.com8

T here are so many places in North Central Massachusetts where you can enjoy live entertainment — from country, to rock or jazz. Town commons, restaurants and concert halls offer a broad palate of music just about any day, or night, of the week. But among the more popular places to kick back to enjoy some tunes these days are the region’s taprooms, brew pubs and brew barns — where you can sample the latest beers, ciders and seltzers at the same time! Want to sip a cool one while enjoying your favorite music genre? Here’s a sampling of spots to visit: Gardner Ale House, 74 Parker St., Gardner. So many great brews, so little time! The Gardner Ale House — home of Moon Hill Brewing Co. — is the only full-menu brewpub in both North Central Massachusetts and Worcester County, and is known for its Sunday Jazz brunches. What more could you want? Great food, craft beer and entertainment, seven days a week.

Moon Hill, by the way, recently launched a new non-alcoholic brew called Dry Water, entering it into the growing marketplace for non-alcoholic beverages that taste similar to hoppy beers. Its new offering contains hop water, a beverage infusing sparkling water with hops and other flavors. The Brew Barn & Cidery at Red Apple Farm, 455 Highland Ave., Phillipston. The folks at Red Apple have teamed up with Moon Hill to craft a semi-sweet hard cider, and serve up the cider, wine from nearby Hardwick Winery, and, of course Moon Hill’s own craft beers. When you want to get out of the city, this is the place to be! Enjoy live entertainment, along with roasted nuts, popcorn, a BBQ menu, ice cream, hayrides, live music, a country store and farm animals. Kids love it, parents love it and craft beverage lovers are in their element. Wachusett Brew Yard, 175 State Rd. E., Westminster. The Brew Yard is open seven days a week, with great food and fresh, handcrafted beer. Its unique bar built in a custom Airstream trailer features 24 Wachusett beers on draught along with its Country Hard Seltzers, Scratch Margaritas, and a selection of non-alcoholic beverages. Settle in around the fire pit and listen to live music! River Styx Taproom, 166 Boulder Dr., Fitchburg. Live music, trivia games, food, indoor and patio seating… right in downtown Fitchburg. Enjoy a host of interesting brews, like Nectar of Aristaeus - Strawberry Cream Lifesaver IPA, Thanatos God of Death Stout and Chimera: Blackberry Smash Hard Seltzer. Thirsty Robot Brewing Taproom, 265 Summer St., Fitchburg. Check out local musicians, performing weekends in the taproom. Enjoy the unique tastes of a New England IPA brewed with New Zealand hops, or a ruby red Irish ale — and pair your brew with a plate of pierogi, nachos or an all-American hot dog! Talk about an international experience! Tap Room at Sterling Street Brewery, 175 Sterling St., Clinton. Enjoy a blonde ale, pilsner or IPA with light fare like paninis, bagels or wraps, along with trivia, comedy, and, of course, music! §

Tunes & Taps

Food&Farms

Fall | Winter 2022 9 Welc es Y ! Find out more at www.westminster-ma.gov St. Edward’s Fall Festival Westminster Cracker Festival Trick or Treat & Bon re Holiday Farmer’s Market Visit With Santa Historical Society Christmas Open House Tree LivingLightingNativity Scene Westminster Pharmacy Open House

The most courageous guests will also have the chance to undergo a solo vigil in the dark on the third floor. Reportedly, even staff refuse to visit the third floor alone. This just might be an experience you’ll never forget! § Murdock Whitney House.

D o you believe in ghosts and goblins and things that go bump in the night? You just might be able to see — or feel the spirit of one — in Winchendon this fall!

The Isaac Morse and Murdock Whitney homes — owned and managed by the Winchendon History & Cultural Center — will present an Evening of Overnight Paranormal Investigation with Drag Queen/ Paranormal Investigator Monique Toosoon in October. There has long been talk of ghostly sightings or sensations in these historic buildings, and professional paranormal investigators have periodically visited the Murdock Whitney and Isaac Morse houses in search of paranormal experiences. The properties, which were built in 1775 and 1850, respectively, are said to contain the spirits of their former owners.

On October 30, Monique Toosoon, Drag Queen and Paranormal Investigator with “a kiss of sensitivity," will bring an array of ghost hunting equipment and “plenty of sass” to the mansions. Only 20 tickets are available for the event, and guests are encouraged to bring sleeping bags, air mattresses or cots if they are brave enough to plan on sleeping over.

Eerie Experiences

According to the WHHC, “Everything from disembodied footsteps to haunting music emanating from the walls end even full-body apparitions have been reported at these locations. A ghostly woman is said to wander the property and become ‘extremely agitated’ when people enter her bedroom, and objects have been seen to move by themselves.”

S ince being settled in the reportedlyknowingMarthadevastatedThecallingMarthaafteratneverinwanderedyear-oldstoriesencounters.sightingsthiscommunities1700s,throughoutregionhavehadtheirshareofunsettlingexperiences…leadingtotalesofghostlyandparanormalOneofthemostfamiliaristhatoffour-LucyKeyes,whofromherhomePrincetonin1775,tobeseenagain…least,notalive.Nightnight,Lucy’smotherscouredthewoods,forherdaughter.child’sdisappearancethefamily;diedin1786,neverLucy’sfate,anddriventonear insanity of the loss. But the story doesn’t end with the passing of the Keyes family. There are those who, to this day, swear they have heard Martha’s voice calling for

VisitNorthCentral.com10 Visit… If You Dare!

S.K. Pierce Mansion.

The youngest child of the Morse family, and the only son, met an early demise at the age of seven.

Fall | Winter 2022 11 her lost daughter in the woods and report seeing unexplained child-sized footprints in the snow. Such stories abound amid the historic graveyards and homes of North Central Massachusetts. And whether you believe in ghosts… or are skeptical… you might just want to learn more about the darker sides of life in early New England. The Winchendon History and Cultural Center, of course, is a good place to start. The two mansions, both open for visits, are said to be haunted. You can even stay overnight — the Isaac Morse house is now a bed and breakfast where you (and maybe a ghostly “friend”) can enjoy all the comforts of (haunted) home. In Gardner, the S. K. Pierce Mansion, a looming 10-bedroom Victorian at 4 W. Broadway, is well known locally as the Haunted Mansion. Once the home of local industrialist Sylvester Pierce, the mansion has been through many owners and many uses — from a Mason hall to, reportedly, a brothel — since being built in 1875, and has been vacant off and on, as some owners felt unable to live with the resident ghosts. The S. K. Pierce Mansion has been restored in recent years with an eye toward being open for tours. The historical/paranormal tours begin September 15; reservations can be made online NarragansettWar-eracenteraTempletonfacedtragedies,dailylikeexperienceavailableAwhilerecountingresidentfornightAndskhauntedvictorianmansion.com.ataSpecialGuestTour—oneonly—hasbeenscheduledOctober8,withformerMansionVictoriaCasanovahermanyexperienceslivingintheeeriehome.limitednumberofticketsareonthewebsite.Butifyou’renotquitereadytoapparitions,butwouldtolearnaboutthelivesandstruggles—andsomeofthewarsandpandemicsthey—oflocalresidents,headtoonOctober28and29for“hauntedwalk”throughthetownandintotheRevolutionarycemeterywiththeHistoricalSociety.You just might feel the cool touch of a visitor from long ago on the nape of your neck as you stroll amid the old slate gravestones! § The fiji mermaid at the S.K. Pierce Mansion. e • 74 Parker St. • Downtown Gardner, MA 978-669-0122 moonhillbrewing.com • gardnerale.comSeptember 24, 2022 YourServingFoodPubBreweryRestaurantDeckSeatingKidFriendlyMadeHereBreakfastSunday9:00-NoonDrinkIncluded!

or decades, visitors and local residents alike flocked to the Indian Hill Music Center in Littleton, a nonprofit center for music education and performance, to enjoy the professional concert series featuring the Orchestra of Indian Hill, chamber music, and jazz.

October 21 is the official Opening Night at Meadow Hall, featuring Maestro Bruce Hangen and the Vista Philharmonic chamber players with an enticing program for chamber orchestra, including Aaron Copland’s all-time favorite, Appalachian Spring, and featuring young harpist Li-Shan Tan in the music of Ravel. And that’s just the beginning of a musicfilled season. There will be Bluegrass, jazz, Celtic music and sounds from around the world in October, November and December. The scheduled concerts are listed in the Calendar section of this Guide. See what the excitement is all about! grotonhill.orgVisitfor tickets and to learn more about this new cultural center in the region. § Groton Hill Music Center. Maestro Bruce Hangen conducts in Meadow Hall.

Now, a new door has opened, literally, for music lovers in the 79 towns the center has served through its concerts and educational programs. The stunning new Groton Hill Music Center opens this fall in a 126,000-square-foot music venue with a 1,000-seat concert hall, a 300-seat performance hall, and multi-scaled rehearsal and teaching spaces. Located less than an hour from Boston, the new center, designed by Cambridgebased Epstein Joslin Architects, offers worldclass acoustics that Groton Hill anticipates will draw top performers to town. Set on 110 rolling acres, the Center encompasses music studios and rehearsal spaces in addition to two main performance venues. “The whole idea,” Center CEO Lisa Fiorentino told the press this year, “is to make this a gathering space centered around music.” To that end, the building includes a spacious lobby where people can gather to chat while waiting for their music students. A Long Local History The Groton Hill Music Center was founded in 1985 as a community resource for all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. “For over 35 years, we’ve been a leader in music education and performance. Now, we’re proud to open our new facility and usher in a new era of artistic diversity in New England,” its website announces. Just as Indian Hill Music was itself a one-of-a-kind institution – a community non-profit integrating music education, theplaceMusicphilanthropyopportunities,performanceandmusic–GrotonHillCenterisauniquethatwillinvigorateculturallandscape,

VisitNorthCentral.com12

Groton Hill New Season in a New Center

encourage connections among all members of the community, and create new economic opportunities in Central Massachusetts andThebeyond.”newMusic Center at 36 King St. in Groton is designed to integrate its performance and education venues into the natural beauty of its rural setting.

All of the facility’s public lobbies and performance spaces open onto green spaces that were once a part of the region’s famous apple orchards. The surrounding stage walls of the 300-seat Meadow Hall are made of glass so audiences can feel like they are enjoying a performance in a meadow. The rear of the main Concert Hall will open onto a lawn with a 1,300-seat capacity.

Saturday, September 2 4 • Fabulous Fall Festival • Gardner Ale House 16th Annual Oktoberfest • The Chair Luge Returns! Friday, October 28 • Downtown Halloween Stroll Saturday, November 2 6 • Small Business Saturday Enjoy Fall Recreatio n at: • Gardner Municipal Golf Course • Dunn State Park • North Central Pathway Sunday, December 4 • Holiday Stroll & Tree Lighting Saturday, December 17 • Caroling with the Mayor Enjoy Winter Recreation at: • Gardner Veterans Skating Rink • Gardner Museum • Gardner Ten Pin • Brian’s Bowlaway Chair City Welcome s You! Visit Gardner-ma.g ov

The South Athol Conservation Area. Relax at this 198acre property nestled between South Athol and White Ponds, featuring trails, old cellars, and wetlands teeming with wildlife. The land, managed by the Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust, also features a portion of the former Rabbit Run rail bed, which now serves as a lovely trail through wetlands. It’s open to the public for non-motorized recreation including hiking and nature watching. Visit mountgrace.org to learn more. Kirby Conservation Area. Located along the Ashby / Ashburnham town line, this property owned by the North County Land Trust offers a looped trail system that allows visitors to explore the beautiful and remote woodland consisting mostly of white pine and oak. Trails meander through low bush blueberry, stands of mountain laurel, along stone walls, past a hidden pond and across small streams. Trails are open for hiking, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. More information, including a map, can be found at northcountylandtrust.org. Lane Conservation Area. Lunenburg has over 25 miles of trails on over a dozen Conservation Commission properties that are permanently protected open space dedicated to conservation and passive recreation. Among them: The Lane property, with a 4.2-mile loop trail, generally considered an easy route, with modest elevations and a few babbling brook crossings, including two over Mulpus Brook. This trail is great for birding, crosscountry skiing, and hiking. Maps can be found at lunenburgma.gov.

§OutdoorsGreat Trails Less Traveled

S ometimes you’re in the mood for a quick bike ride between cities on a rail trail. And there are times when you might want to plan a long hike along the popular Wapack or Midstate Trails. And then, there are days when you just want a quiet getaway, a stroll through a serene forest, a spot where you can enjoy nature and your own thoughts. Well, in addition to being home to a host of familiar hiking and biking trails — even trails leading to spectacular vistas, like the summits of Mount Watatic or Wachusett Mountain — this region is also rife with trails running through lesser-known recreation areas.

Royalston's Doane's Falls.Photo by Mitchell R. Grosky. Doane’s Falls on Lawrence Brook in Royalston tumbles from under a picturesque stone bridge in a frothy frenzy to Tully Lake. A half-mile trail leads down both sides of the stream, offering great vantage points as Lawrence Brook drops and swirls, its water continually rushing over and along mid-stream boulders, flat granite slabs, and small islands. Visit the trustees.org for directions and to learn more.

VisitNorthCentral.com14

Looking for some quiet time? Consider these spots: The Brooks Woodland Preserve in Petersham. Follow miles of footpaths and old farm roads through a massive expanse of diverse forest, pristine streams, and wetlands at this property managed by The Trustees of Reservations. There are more than 13 miles of trails available for hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and crosscountry skiing in this preserve that is adjacent to Mass. Audubon’s 1,500-acre Rutland Brook Sanctuary. You can download a map at brooks-woodland-preserve.thetrustees.org/place/

Fall | Winter 2022 15 Celebrating over 75 years with country dining at its best! Restaurant Weddings Showers RT 2A - 69 STATE ROAD EAST WESTMINSTER, MA. 01473 978-874-5941 | 1761OLDMILL@GMAIL.COM | 1761OLDMILL.COM Rehersal Dinners

The popularwildly— and definitely the zaniest —Gardner event is back after a twoyear hiatus… and you won’t want to miss it!

Past contestants trying their luck. Heading for the finish line. See our website or Facebook pages for special events

Grab a Seat! The Chair Luge is Back!

The twelfth running of the Chair Luge will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, September 24, in downtown Gardner — right on Parker Street in front of the Gardner Ale House. This year’s theme is one familiar to kids of all ages: Superheroes! Yes, you’re sure to see a host of counterfeit Batgirls, Avengers, and Green Lanterns when contestants take to the street with their creatively concocted chairs. A fall tradition prior to the pandemic break, the Chair Luge is a key component of the local Oktoberfest celebration —a full day of partying in the street, complete with a beer garden (featuring, of course, Moon Hill beverages brewed at the Ale House) and plenty of food. If you’ve never been to the Chair Luge, be prepared, because you’ll be laughing till your sides ache! It’s a short race — just about 200 yards — run in a series of threechair heats, so the fun lasts for hours. Picture it: office chairs, recliners, lawn chairs… you name it, if it’s recognizable as a chair, it qualifies for entry after it acquires a set of wheels, brakes and some kind of steering mechanism. When it’s time to roll, contestants take their seats and get a muscular assist to begin the downhill course. What happens next is anyone’s guess… but making it to the finish line is always a good sign for these makeshift race-chairs. Created in 2009, this wild and wacky battle, now run as a collaborative project by the Acadien Social Club, Gardner Ale House, and Gardner Festival Committee, is always a crowd-pleaser. Want to try your hand — and chair — in this crazy competition? Visit the Gardner Ale House website for an entry form and rules … and think about X-Men, Mutant Ninja Turtles, Incredible Hulks… and fun! §

Meet the Llamas & Alpacas! Offering tours and walks. Call or message for more info. Giftshop, Alpaca clothing and yarn. Open Sundays, 10am – 4pm or by appointment Alpacas & Llamas

VisitNorthCentral.com16

Fall | Winter 2022 17 Open 7 Days A Week! Live Local Music Daily! ALWAYS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FOR PLAY! Specializing in Birthday Parties. Over 25 redemption, video, and pinball games with a great prize counter. Two GIANT Arenas with over ten interactive inflatables. Lots of FunStuf inside one building! LOCATED AT 791 WATER STREET, FITCHBURG, MA 01420 WWW.FUNSTUFPARTYPLACE.COM(P)978-342-5000 Live Where You Play! Call me for all your real estate needs. Your Real Estate Resource Each office is independently owned and operated Michelle mhaggstrom@kw.comwww.MAHomeConnections.comHaggstrom|978.660.9912

QualityMuseumVisits

O f course you love the Great Outdoors… and there’s so much to do in beautiful North Central Massachusetts!

But when you’ve had enough fresh air, or the weather isn’t right for a foray into the forest, you can still enjoy great things this region has to offer! Here are a few suggestions — and you can find more places to visit in the “Members” section at the back of this Guide!

rt museums. History museums. Toy museums. Even a racing museum! Oh, the choices you’ll find as you tour this region! Every town has a historical museum or historical society building, where you can see everyday items from centuries gone by; artifacts from historic battles; and products that were manufactured locally. Hours vary, and some buildings close during the winter, but it’s worth your while to do a little googling to find one of these treasures when you’re looking for something different to do!

�� Stay on Script H ave wantedalwaysyoutostep on stage, but were a bit too timid — afraid to face a big audience? We’ve got an alternative for you! Stratton Players' Playreading Group meets every month at Leominster Public Library. The group meets on Thursday evenings, and invites you to read scenes from comedies, mysteries, dramas and Shakespeare! Come read or just listen — help Stratton evaluate plays for possible future production! Visit leominsterlibrary.org for details. There’s lots more to do, too, at the region’s public libraries. You can learn a new craft, peruse an art gallery, watch a movie, play bingo, listen to a children’s story, even hear live music. No matter which community you’re visiting, there’s a good chance that something interesting is going on at a nearby library. Check out the city and town websites for links to these fantastic facilities! ��

VisitNorthCentral.com18

Just for Kids

Short StopsShort Stops

Think museums are dusty and boring? You haven’t seen what we have in store for you. Check out the RB Racing Museum at Ron Bouchard Auto Stores in Lunenburg, where you can see Ron’s 1981 Talladega winning #47 car; the Egyptian room at the Fitchburg Art Museum, where you can see a real mummy and learn about the mummification process; or the Toy Museum at the Winchendon History and Cultural Center. Stop in… you’ll be surprised and delighted at what these museums have to offer! ��

F ace Grownupsit: need to have fun, too! And what could be more fun than… axe throwing! Yes, you read that right! Game On Sports & Performance Center in Fitchburg offers a complete sports experience, including some sports you might not have even thought about! There are outdoor fields for games including soccer, flag football, lacrosse, field hockey; programs for leagues, camps, tournaments and more; indoor basketball courts; facilities for kids’ birthday parties; a sports bar & grill… and more. And six lanes for axe throwing! These are limited to participants aged 15 and up — and guests must listen to a quick two-minute safety speech by the coach before entering the lanes. Learn more at gameonfitchburg.com.

�� NOT Just for Kids!

W hen the youngsters need to burn off some energy, head out to Funstuf Party Place in Fitchburg for an hour or two of, well, fun! This indoor playground has inflated slides, arcade games and more — and there are special events, too, like sand art or T-shirt crafting. The play space is open Fridays through Sundays. Check it out at funstufpartyplace.com.

Fall | Winter 2022 19 Over 150+ dealers. Come in and browse through this friendly & relaxed shop, offering the most eclectic and ever changing inventory of antiques & collectibles. Come in and find that unique antique. Something for every collector’s estate! Vintage andComicGlasswareFurnitureJewelryBooksPrintsPotteryPrimitivesLinensLP’smuchmore...OPEN7 DAYS A WEEK! 10 AM – 3 PM WED. NIGHTS TILL 7 PM 62 Chase Road, (Rt.13) Lunenburg, MA (978) 582-7831 • jeffreysantiquecoopmall@gmail.com Maguire House Bed & Breakfast Ashburnham MA | maguirehouse.com While you’re exploring North Central Mass Insured by NCUA *with direct deposit iccreditunion.org Come find us at IC for great solutions to your everyday banking needs that other places don’t offer like: ■ Getting paid early* ■ Debit card rewards ■ Great rates on auto and home loans ■ Online deposit and much more Take a break as you travel the Johnny Appleseed Trail! Stop in and visit our remodeled Visitor Center, featuring new interpretive displays, new signage, covered picnic tables, a dog walking park, a water bottle filling station and much more. You can browse our popular gift shop, where you will find: Jams, Jellies and Local Honey Maple Syrup, Candy & Freshly-made Fudge Tons of Alpaca Products Books about the region and Massachusetts Gourmet Cookies & Kettle Corn Maps & Brochures for Local Attractions Plus lots more products to tempt your taste buds! RT. 2 West Bound in Lancaster, MA 01523 visitnorthcentral.com | (978) 534-2302 Visit North JohnnyMassachusetts'CentralveryownAppleseedCenter

World

The Museum of Russian Icons vehemently condemns the military aggression on the sovereign country of Ukraine. It stands with the courageous citizens of Ukraine and Russia who oppose this senseless act of war. They are in no way affiliated with or funded by the Russian government or Orthodox Church. The Museum is a private nonprofit that embraces all aspects of Slavic culture and is eager to help preserve and celebrate Ukrainian history. "Baba Yaga." Image Courtesy of Bridie Wolkjko.

Want to see what’s on the mind of today’s American artists? Landing in the city’s downtown before Labor Day, you can view works by local artists in the popular Regional Exhibition of Art and Craft, one of the longest-running juried exhibitions in New England. The museum is conveniently located in the heart of the city, at 185 Elm Street, just a block from the picturesque UpperViewCommon.

Hypnagogia: Bridie Wolejko’s Mixed Media Fantasies — mixed-mediahand-craftedcollagesand objects that create dreamlike images, informed by the artist's interests in myth, magic, horror, popular culture, surrealism, architecture, and nature. Running into 2023, the spotlight is on three artists, Ron Rosenstock, Gabriel Sosa, and Cicely Carew. For details on these exhibitions, visit the Museum’s website, fitchburgartmuseum.org. There you have it: East and West, history and today’s art world, all within a half-hour drive right here in North Central Massachusetts. § Views of the

East & West Museums Spotlight Varying

20 I t’s an unlikely gem, found nestled in a small American town with 19th century industrial roots — but the Museum of Russian Icons has clearly established itself as a “must” for visitors to North Central Massachusetts. The vision of the late industrialist Gordon Lankton, the Museum houses a stunning and expansive collection of these works — the largest assemblage of Russian icons outside of Russia — in a former mill building and police station. Stepping through the doors whisks visitors halfway around the world, with three floors of galleries displaying its permanent collection and special exhibitions ranging from Russiancontemporaryarttoicons from other Orthodox cultures. More than a display of artworks, this museum opens a window into the history and culture of ThroughRussia.October 2, the Museum is spotlighting Images of Atheism: The Soviet Assault on Religion — exploring the role of visual propaganda in the Communist Party’s sevendecade war against religion (ca. 1920–1990). The posters and publications on exhibit demonstrate the Soviet’s efforts to demonize the world’s religions, and eradicate faith, particularly among young people. Also on view is Tea is for Tradition, objects that evoke warmth, home and family. Much of tea’s popularity is owed to Russia’s literary greats and decorative artists; in their craft, tea is immortalized as a central aspect of the Russian identity. Later in October, and running through the winter, the focus shifts to Holy Helpers: Folk Icons of Peasant Russia (1861-1917), an exhibition of rarely exhibited Russian folk art that explores the role of icons in the daily life of Russian peasants — deeply devout people who viewed icons as protection from the trials and tribulations of their harsh existence. The Orthodox peasant home, simple yet practical, would always feature a home altar — known as the Beautiful Corner — where the family would display their icons. A Short Ride, A Different World A short ride from Clinton, the Fitchburg Art Museum offers a starkly different experience, with a focus on contemporary American art, with a range of additional exhibits exploring other cultures, from ancient Egypt to Africa. One of the most treasured cultural institutions in Central New England, the Museum has a long history in the city, displaying not only art historical collections and its special exhibitions of contemporary New England art, but also creating and supporting education programs, public art projects, community partnerships, and creative economy initiatives.

VisitNorthCentral.com

Fall | Winter 2022 21 • Local Wines, Beers, & Hard Ciders • Fresh Produce All Year • Taste of Local Events • Jumping Pillow • Cider Donuts • CSA Shares • Cut Flowers • Corn Maze “Deep Sea Adventure” 294 CHASE RD, MA-13, LUNENBURG, MA 01462 (978) 582-6246 | LANNIORCHARD.COM “Family Farm Experience” Open Year-Round Great selection of locally made products mostly from Massachusetts. CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR DATES AND EVENT POSTING! Come and spend time at the farm. Enjoy... Sunflowers • Grape Picking • Apple Picking Pumpkin Picking • Hay Rides • Corn Maze • Night Maze + So Much More! The Pines 4-Season Campground 39 Davis Road • Ashby, MA 01431 • (978) 386-7702 t he p inesc a m p g r ou nd c o m • campgroundthepines@gmail.com Just 10 miles from Rt. 2 Large Recreation Hall Laundry Available Hot Showers Available S p aci o us S it e s Camp Store WI F I UponParkingAvailableAssistanceRequest Swimming Firewood,PicnicPlaygroundPool&ArcadeTables&FireRingsIce&LP FullCampingWildernesstoHookupSites A Rustic CampgroundFamilytoEnjoy&ReturntoOften! WESTMINSTER DOG SHOW On Main Street in May-OctoberWestminster A Fundraiser for the Westminster Village Foundation FABRICATING & MACHINING F TCHBURG WELDINGCO N C October 15, 2022 • 10am – 5pm Arts & Crafts • Food Vendors Beer Garden • Free Admission • Live Music Auction Info @ crackerfestival.com or @ Westminster Cracker Festival

C reative people throughout this region are working in glass and metal, fiber and clay — making everything from jewelry to home décor, and even whimsical garden ornaments. Wouldn’t you just love to see what these artists and artisans are up to these days? Well, we’ve got good news for you! It’s easy to see the talent on display — and available for sale — throughout the cities and towns of North CentralWhetherMassachusetts.you’dliketo explore on your own, or take an easy-to-follow tour, the art and craft galleries of the region await your visit. Here are a couple of ideas to get your started on your journey of discovery: Fitchburg’s Open Studios Tour. On the weekend of September 24-25, you can experience first-hand the actual working spaces, exhibition spaces, and studios of some of the most accomplished artists in the greater Fitchburg area, on this self-guided tour. There will also be several “pop up” sites throughout the city. Pick up a brochure at many locations, including the Johnny Appleseed Visitor Center on Route 2, then stop to visit as many studios as you’d like — while enjoying a little leaf-peeping along the way! Learn more at FitchburgOpenStudios on Facebook. Back Roads Studio Tour. Each fall, local artists and craftsmen open their studios for a self-guided tour of the beautiful back roads of rural New England towns, including Barre and Petersham. This year’s tour will be held on October 1 and 2, from 10 am to 5 pm each day. Check out the participating artists online at backroadsstudiotour.org.

Country Roads Christmas Tour. The annual Country Roads tour through several towns in the northwest section of Johnny Appleseed Country spotlights a variety of small businesses — including shops where you’ll find handcrafted leather garments, belts and luggage; fiber products from Plain View Farm’s own alpacas; and fine arts and crafts on display. Need a bite to keep you going as you roam? The Country Roads Tour also includes restaurants — and don’t forget to peruse the specialty cheeses at Smith’s Country Cheese! You’ll have plenty of time to explore: This tour runs a full month, from November 11 to December 11! There are lots of details countryroadschristmas.com.at

Blown glass at Creative Connections. Jewelry and more at GALA Gallery. Teddies at Plainview Farm.

They’ve Got Talent

VisitNorthCentral.com22

Create your own tour! There are so many great places to see what artists and craftsmen are up to these days! From the Gardner Area League of Artists gallery or Not Just Produced shop in downtown Winchendon to the Creative Connections gallery in Ashburnham, you can discover everything from quilts to hand-blown glass ornaments, whimsical gnomes to sterling jewelry… and so much more! Be sure to stop by the Johnny Appleseed Visitor Center on Route 2 to gather maps and brochures spotlighting many great stops in the region — and explore the hand-crafted items right there in the center’s shop to get you in the mood! §

— filled with Westminster Crackers — on Round Pond. The Westminster Historical Society stirs up this challenge each winter to raise funds for its activities. Visit the Society on Facebook for details. Hubbardston showcases its Frozen Assets — a lifesize cutout of an outhouse — waiting for a hint of Spring. The outhouse sits on the Country Hen Pond on Williamsville Road. Visit hubbardston250 on Facebook to take your best shot on this one. Grab a calendar, check the almanac, meditate, roll the dice… Use your favorite prognostication tools, and see if you can guess when these local icons take a watery plunge!

Fall | Winter 2022 23 N ew withwintersEngland—their gorgeous, undeniableoutdoorfreshlandscapes;sparklingexhilaratingair;andwealthofactivities—aretreasures.Buttherecomesatime when you just might start to wonder when the chilly days will warm, the sunlight will linger, and the landscape will emerge from under that blanket of snow and ice. That’s when you’ll want to start watching local “ice out” events — competitions in which participants take their best guess as to when the ice on area ponds will melt enough for community icons to take a chilly dip in the drink. Leominster’s entry into this cool competition is Rocky, a himYoushorttheRockwellonmannequinnattily-attiredwhoperchesalifeguardchaironPondthroughlongnights(anddays)ofwinter.cankeepaneyeonviawebcamashe waits, off the shore of the Leominster Veterans Center on Pond Street, for the firmament below him to soften, thin, and break. To guess the date and time of Rocky’s chilly dip, visit reliesWestminster,leovets.org.meanwhile,onachowderbowl

§ We’re Here For Businesses.Local NMLS # 402413 | Member FDIC | Member DIF Please visit your nearest branch to get started. bankHometown.com | 888.307.5887 ALL OF OUR BUSINESS CHECKING ACCOUNTS OFFER: Tomorrow is already on its way, and our job is to set you up for success. As a local bank, we know what it takes to run a business around here. We offer personalized guidance and a suite of business products, from free checking and online and mobile banking, to cash management services and lending. We’re committed to helping your business grow and prosper. • Online Account Management & Loan Payments • VISA® Business Debit and Credit Cards • Customizable Cash Management Services* • Merchant Services** • Companion Business Savings & CDs • Business Loans and Lines of Credit *Cash Management products are available to business customers only and fees may apply. **Merchant Services require review and approval by bankHometown. Not all customers are eligible for these services. Rocky on Rockwell Pond. Frozen Assets on Country Hen Pond. Chowder bowl on Round Pond. On Thin Ice

OCTOBER 20 THROUGH FEBRUARY 13. Holy Helpers: Folk Icons of Peasant Russia (1861-1917) at the Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union St., Clinton. Holy Helpers examines rarely exhibited Russian folk icons from the Museum’s and other private collections and explores the icon’s function in the peasant’s daily life. The exhibition will feature groups of icons of particular importance to the peasant, including Saint Nichols, Saint Nil, and Saint Seraphim of Sarov. Visit museumofrussianicons.org.

Exhibitions, events and more!

VisitNorthCentral.com24

The Soviet Assault on Religion at the Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union St., Clinton. Images of Atheism explores the role of visual propaganda in the Communist Party’s seven-decade war against religion (ca. 1920– 1990). With their eye-catching design, strident slogans, and stereotyped characters, the posters and publications of Soviet atheism demonized the world’s religions and jeered at those who practiced them. Above all, they appealed to young people by promising a new world of abundance and moral values replacing the superstitions and injustices of the past. Intended mainly for domestic consumption, this remarkable campaign to eradicate faith is among the least known aspects of Soviet visual culture. Visit museumofrussianicons.org.

THROUGHEXHIBITIONSSEPTEMBER4.

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 4. Hypnagogia: Bridie Wolejko’s Mixed Media Fantasies at the Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm St., Fitchburg. Lunenburg artist Bridie Wolejko creates hand-crafted mixed-media collages and objects that create dream-like images, informed by her interests in myth, magic, horror, popular culture, surrealism, architecture, and nature. Hypnagogia is the transitional state of consciousness between wakefulness and sleep. During hypnagogia, many people can experience involuntary and vividly imagined experiences. Bridie Wolejko was the first prize winner in last summer’s 85th Through September 4. Call and Response: Material Matters at the Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm St., Fitchburg. The theme calls back to the very first “Call and Response,” which highlighted work from FAM’s African art collection. Material Matters revisits the African collection, with a particular focus on the diverse materiality of African artistic practice. This year’s selected ArtsWorcester artists are Stephen Bergeron, Esther Clark, Jennifer Davis Carey, Kristi DiSalle, Gloria Goguen, Casey Hickey, Abu Mwenye, Lisa Shea, Suzanne Stumpf, and Robin Tost.

THROUGH NOVEMBER 1. Uprooted Land Art by W. Gary Smith at the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, 11 French Rd., Boylston. This nature inspired exhibition, imagined by author, artist, and landscape architect W. Gary Smith, features stunning sculptures. Made from natural materials collected at the garden, this exhibit celebrates the connections between people and nature, combining art and horticulture to explore ecological design and artistic abstraction. Join us throughout the exhibition for events, tours, drop-in activities, and more as we explore different ways to connect with the land through art. Visit nebg.org.

OCTOBER 1, 2022 THROUGH JANUARY 8, 2023. Cicely Carew and Adding Pattern, Adding Value at the Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm St., Fitchburg. Visit fitchburgartmuseum.org for updated details.

THROUGH OCTOBER 30. Rooted, A New England Society of Botanical Artists Illustrated Exhibit at the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. Rooted is an illustrated exhibit created in collaboration with the New England Society of Botanical Artists and the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. Forty-one NESBA member artists worked to create fifty-seven unique works of art that depict the parts of plants we don’t typically see, their roots! ROOTED will adorn the New England Botanic Garden’s Fern Gallery from June 4th to October 30th, 2022. Many original pieces, prints, and cards will be for sale throughout the duration of the exhibit. Visit nebg.org.

Calendar O ver the past two years, many community organizations have closed their doors, postponed or cancelled events, or limited attendance to comply with state Covid-19 restrictions. The situation continues to be fluid and regulations may change at any time. As this issue of The Guide goes to press, the events listed in this Calendar are expected to go forward. However, due to the constantly-changing Covid landscape, we strongly recommend that you check the organizations on social media or by phone to confirm the event status, masking requirements, and any limits on attendance. Exhibition at the Fitchburg Art Museum.

NOVEMBER 1-30. Gnomevember at New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, 11 French Rd., Boylston. In 1986, the Worcester County Horticultural Society purchased Tower Hill Farm in Boylston and began building New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. It is said that gnomes inhabited the property, long before the Garden was ever built, but strangely, over the past two years gnome activity has been on the rise. But why? Perhaps the gnomes are tired of hiding. Or maybe they are curious about the visitors, or the new gardens we’re building. Either way, we’re prepared for them to pop out again this year. Are you?

Regional Exhibition of Art & Craft at the Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm St., Fitchburg. The Regional Exhibition of Art & Craft is one of the longest-running juried exhibitions in New England. Open Wednesday-Friday 12 pm – 4 pm; Saturday & Sunday 11 am – 5 pm; and first Thursday of the month 12 pm – 7 pm.

FALL-WINTER CALENDAR 2022

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 8. Connections— Mother/Daughter at the Petersham Art Center, 8 North St., Petersham. Works by Pearl J. Maroni & Tracey J. Maroni. Open weekends, noon to 4 pm. Visit the center on Facebook.

SEPTEMBER 17 THROUGH DECEMBER 31. Ron Rosenstock in Color and Gabriel Sosa: No Vehicles in the Park at the Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm St., Fitchburg. Visit Fitchburgartmuseum.org for updates.

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 10. New England Triennial 2022 at the Fruitlands Museum Art Gallery, 102 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard, an exhibition featuring New England Contemporary Art. In the Native American Gallery is Building Relationships: Artwork from the Permanent Collection, which includes art made and found by European-American settlers, underscoring the reality that the Native American and White settlers have coexisted here, not always peacefully, for hundreds of years. It is in the spirit of equity and inclusion that we show the collection together in this exhibition.

THROUGH OCTOBER 2. Images of Atheism:

THROUGH OCTOBER 2. Tea is for Tradition at the Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union St., Clinton. The objects associated with Russian tea are tactile reminders of this important tradition and evoke warmth, home, and family. Much of tea’s popularity is owed to Russia’s literary greats and decorative artists, for it is in their craft that tea becomes immortalized as a central aspect of the Russian identity. This mini-exhibition in the Museum’s lobby explores the permeation of tea culture in Russian art, craft, and literature. Visit museumofrussianicons.org.

17 SATURDAY. Film: Sergei Eisenstein’s STRIKE (1925) at the Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union St., Clinton. The first feature film by the director of Battleship Potemkin, STRIKE is a visual tour-deforce that employs dynamic editing and experimental camerawork to dramatize the saga of a bitterly fought factory strike in 1903. Often compared to Citizen Kane in terms of audacious directorial debuts, STRIKE embodies the revolutionary spirit of the Soviet people of the late 1920s, cresting the waves of artistic and political idealism. Visit museumofrussianicons.org.

THURSDAY, 1 PM. Opening of Gardner Theatre Guild exhibition at The Gardner Museum, 26 Pearl St., Gardner. From 1939 until the early 1960s, local residents produced top-notch “Broadway Shows” at the Miller's Opera House, The Little Theater, and Pearson Auditorium and supported several organizations with funds raised by these plays, like PTA, Camp Collier, and others. On display during regular Mum hours, until Dec 18. Admission $3.

SEPTEMBER

3-5 SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 10–5; MONDAY, 10–4. Appleseed Country Fair at Red Apple Farm, 4455 Highland Ave., Phillipston. A full Labor Day weekend packed with fun for all ages. Live music on two stages, scores of crafters, cold beverages in the brew barn, food trucks and more. Visit the farm animals, take a wagon ride around the farm, pick apples, select your Halloween pumpkin, enjoy some freshly-baked cider donuts. Parking is $15 per carload, with proceeds benefiting local fire departments.

10 SATURDAY, 11 AM. Still Chasing the Fire: Lives of the Civil War Veterans Who Became Firefighters at Forest Hill Cemetery, Mt. Elam Road entrance, Fitchurg. History walking tour presented with Stratton Players. A look at Fitchburg’s Civil War veterans who became firefighters, including some who fought in the war’s most pivotal battles. Members of the Fitchburg Fire Department Honor Guard and 15th Mass Volunteer Infantry Civil War re-enactors will join us. Rain or shine. Free. Visit fitchburghistoricalsociety.com.

6 TUESDAY, 6:30–8 PM. Music and Moonlight at the Pavilion at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd., Fitchburg. Enjoy listening to the Fitchburg State University Community Orchestra from 6:30-7:15, then join a guided walk on the park’s beautiful grounds. You may learn about some of the park’s wildflowers and monuments, and experience a peaceful river meditation. Bring a picnic! Tables and benches available. Free admission; donations appreciated. Visit saima-park.org.

11 SUNDAY, 3 PM. Historical Piano Concert at the Ashburnham Community Church, Main Street, Ashburnham. Clemens Teufel performs works by Debussy and Poulenc on an Erard piano from the Frederick Collection of Historic Pianos. Visit FrederickCollection.org for information or email piano.fred@juno.com. Admission is $15.00 per person; children and students, free of charge.

9-11 FRIDAY, 5–11 PM; SATURDAY, 9 AM–11 PM; SUNDAY, 9 AM – 5 PM. The Sterling Fair at the Sterling Airport, 121 Greenland Rd., Sterling. The fair is three days, family oriented, community, agricultural fair with the emphasis on agriculture and education. It features rides, horse pulls, oxen pulls, tractor pulls, helicopter rides, antique engine and machinery show, livestock shows, food, entertainment and more! Visit TheSterlingFair on Facebook.

16-17 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 7:30 PM. Love and Laughs – Short Play Festival at Smokestack Roasters, 39 Massachusetts Ave., Lunenburg produced by Amy Newberg. Tickets for sale at Smokestack Roasters, or through website.

TUESDAY, 6–10 PM. Dining Under the Stars in downtown Leominster. Take it outside — your dining adventure, that is. Visit Leominster-ma.gov.

4 SUNDAY, 3 PM. Historical Piano Concert at the Ashburnham Community Church, Main Street, Ashburnham. Dmitry Rachmanov performs Beethoven variations Opp. 34, 35 and 76, ad Sonatas Opp. 90 and 101 on a piano from the Frederick Collection of Historic Pianos. Visit FrederckCollection.org for information or email piano.fred@juno.com. Admission is $15 per person; children and students, free of charge.

17 SATURDAY, 8 AM–3 PM. Citywide Yard Sale in Leominster. Looking for treasures? Start here! Stop by City Hall, 25 West St., for a map, and let the fun begin! Visit leominster-ma.gov.

10 SATURDAY, 7 PM. Casino Royale at the Murdock Whitney Mansion, 151 Front St., Winchendon. Enjoy a night of gambling, silent auction and great conversation to help raise funds for the Winchendon History and Cultural Center! Blackjack, Roulette, Money Wheel and a 50/50 raffle are some of the games you can play. Visit winchendonhistory.com/.

JANUARY 7, 2023 THROUGH MAY 28, 2023. Rania Matar: SHE Expanded at the Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm St., Fitchburg. FEBRUARY 4, 2023-JUNE 4, 2023. Paper Works at the Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm St., Fitchburg. The Museum is open Wednesday – Friday 12 pm – 4 pm; Saturday & Sunday 11am – 5pm; and the first Thursday of the month 12 pm – 7 pm

16 FRIDAY, 8 PM. Richie Kotzen performs at the Bull Run Restaurant, 215 Great Rd., Shirley. Richie Kotzen has always been on a clear, laser-focused mission as an artist, acknowledged worldwide for being a stellar guitar player and an emotive singer. For tickets, visit bullrunreraurant.com.

10 SATURDAY, 9:45–10:45 AM. Brewpub Yoga at Wachusett Brewing Company 175 State Rd E, Westminster. Zen Yoga & Wellness is a yoga-for-all practice, where all can participate, without judgment, and leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and ready for the weekend. The hour long class/practice will be followed by your favorite Wachusett pub beer. Preregistration required. Visit wachusettbrew.com.

1 THURSDAY, 5 PM. First Thursday Intown Fitchburg, Main Street. Local shops welcome visitors, with pop-up food vendors, artists, music and entertainment, and family-friendly activities.

1 THURSDAY, 6:30 PM. Carb Compassion at the Gardner Museum, 26 Pearl St., Gardner. Margie White will enlighten us about “Lasagna Love,” a local nonprofit that organizes volunteers to make lasagnas for people in need.

4 SUNDAY 10 AM–4 PM. Free First Sunday at the Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union St., Clinton. Enjoy free admission to the museum on the first Sunday of each month, courtesy of the Nypro Foundation. Visit museumofrussianicons.org.

Dmitry Rachmanov performs, Historical Piano Concert, September 4.

9-10 FRIDAY, 5–10 PM; SATURDAY, NOON-10 PM. Our Lady of the Lake Parish Bazaar, 1400 Main St., Leominster. White elephant table, books, Christmas items, children’s booth, theme baskets, jewelry, baked goods and games. Visit ourladylake.org.

17 SATURDAY, 9 AM–3 PM. 2022 Hubbardston Field Day at 20 Gardner Rd, Hubbardston. Vendors, food, Chicken BBQ, attractions, town clubs, and organizations. There will also be a baby contest, bounce house, cow flop contest, music and much more! Rain date, Sunday Sept.

8 THURSDAY, 6 PM. Tinseltown Inventor: Hedy Lamarr at The Gardner Museum, 26 Pearl St., Gardner. History At Play, LLC offers living history performances which breathe life into the stories of influential and often forgotten women. Artistic director and performer Judith Kalaora will be back at the museum with a portrayal of Austrian refugee Hedy Lamarr who became “the most beautiful woman in the world” and was not only an actress, and film producer, but also an inventor.

9-10 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 8 PM. Nick Locapo Magic Show at the Bull Run Restaurant, 215 Great Rd., Shirley. Originally from Massachusetts, Nick Locapo is a true master of magic. For over a decade, Nick has toured America as one of the busiest working magicians in the country. Tickets at bullrunrestaurant.com.

7 WEDNESDAY, 5–8 PM. Wine Down Wednesdays at 137 Mill St. in downtown Leominster. Visit an adorable wine garden filled with local makers, artisans and creatives for shopping, delicious food, henna art, wine and bubbles and more! Rain date, Thursday. Repeats Sept 21.

9 FRIDAY, 5–9 PM. Food Truck Festival in downtown Leominster. Get your tastebuds ready for a tantalizing experience!

11 SUNDAY, 1–3 PM. Contemporary Russian Literature Book Group at the Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Central St., Clinton. New members always welcome. September book: Grey Bees by Andrey Karkov. Visit museumofrussianicons.org.

17 SATURDAY, 10 AM–4 PM. Pepperell Fall Fest at the Town Field, 4 Hollis St., Pepperell. The Pepperell 4th of July Committee is delighted to bring Fall Fest back to the Pepperell community. Crafters, vendors, entertainment, raffles, food trucks, mini golf and more. Visit pepperellfourth.org/fall-festival.

18. Visit hubbardston250 on Facebook.

Fall | Winter 2022 25 NOVEMBER 10 THROUGH JANUARY 29. Birch Bark Icons from the Collection of Dmitry Feld and Photographs of the Ballets Russes from the Collection of Yana Veselova, at the Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union St. Clinton. Visit museumofrussianicons.org.

All your favorites … and more …offer a tasteful evening. Visit Leominster-ma.gov.

3 SATURDAY, 11 AM–4 PM. Hardwick Winery Fall Craft & Food Festival at Hardwick Vineyard & Winery, 3305 Greenwich Rd., Hardwick.

24 SATURDAY, 10 AM–11 PM. Fabulous Fall Festival, Chair Luge, and Oktoberfest in downtown Gardner. Vendors, food, games, entertainment — and it wouldn’t be Oktoberfest without beer! Cheer on the racers as they steer (or try to steer) their wild and wacky chairs down Parker Street.

17 SATURDAY, 6 PM. New Pond Fondle performs at Hollis Hills Farm, 340 Marshall Rd., Fitchburg.

17-18 SATURDAY & SUNDAY. Honeycrisp Weekend at Sholan Farms, 1125 Pleasant St., Leominster.

17-18 SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 11 AM–5 PM. BBQFest at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area, 499 Mountain Rd., Princeton. Food trucks, entertainment, crafters, vendors and more. Bibs are welcome and big appetites are encouraged! The Skyride will be open. Visit wachusett.com.

24-25 SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 10 AM–4 PM. The 10th Annual Craft Festival at Fruitlands Museum, 105 Prospect Hill Rd., Harvard. The festival features 48 juried New England artisans under two 140’ x 40’ festival tents (rain or shine). The show’s quality of handmade craft, museum offerings, and stunning views has made the festival a popular September destination.

18 SUNDAY, 2 PM. Taverns and Tavern Life in Early New England lecture at Post 2, American Legion, 450 S. Barre Rd., Barre. Old Sturbridge Village Historian Tom Kelleher talks about the role of taverns in the public life of the community. From typical food and drink to the common topics discussed and kind of songs sung by the fireside, this talk will look at what it was like inside those "public houses" that dotted the highways and center villages of virtually every town in new England."

24-25

SATURDAY, 10 AM. Ashby Pumpkin Festival on the Common, Main Street, Ashby. Family fun, games, delicious food, crafters, live music and more! Sponsored by the Friends of the Ashby Public Library. Visit the festival on Facebook.

24 SATURDAY, 10 AM–4 PM. Up in the Air Fair at the Royalston Fish & Game Club, 49 Main Rd., Phillipston. Aerialists Molly Baechtold and Leah Abel perform at 1 pm. Enjoy music, food, crafters and vendor tables, raffles, and music by Joshua LeVangie. Sponsored by the Royalston South Village Revitalization Committee.

24 SATURDAY, 8 AM–3 PM. 14th Annual Templeton Town Wide Yard Sale. Stop by Narragansett Regional High School, 464 Baldwinville Rd., Templeton, to pick up a map and visit a variety of crafters and vendors. The Townwide Yard Sale benefits the Gansett music program. For details, visit the yard sale on Facebook.

23 FRIDAY, 6 PM. The Ben Cote Band performs at Wachusett Brewing Company, 175 State Road E, Westminster. Visit wachusettbrewingcompany.com.

23 FRIDAY, 8 PM. A Night of Zeppelin at the Polish American Citizens Club (PACC), 171 Kendall Pond Rd W, Gardner. Visit gardnerpacc.com/

Tickets, $12, include entry to Fruitlands Museum galleries, historic structures, exhibits, and trails. For tickets and details, visit thetrustees.org.

22 THURSDAY, 7:30 PM. The Jerry Douglas Band performs at the Bull Run Restaurant, 215 Great Rd., Shirley. Douglas is a freewheeling, forward-thinking recording and touring artist whose output incorporates elements of country, bluegrass, rock, jazz, blues and Celtic into his distinctive musical vision.. Tickets at bullrunrestaurant.com.

24 SATURDAY, 10 AM–5 PM. First Annual Celebrate Ashburnham Street Fair on Main Street, Ashburnham. The street will be lined with businesses and artists from Ashburnham and surrounding areas, along with art projects, live entertainment all day, food and drink, live demonstrations, Touch-a-Truck, the Farmers Market, and activities for all ages.

26 17 SATURDAY, 10 AM–4 PM. St. Edward’s Fall Festival at St. Edward the Confessor Church, 10 Church St., Westminster. Attic Treasures, theme baskets, Eddie’s Auction, grocery wheel, jewelry room and food are highlights of this popular church event.

17-18 SATURDAY, 9 AM–4 PM; SUNDAY, 10 AM–4 PM. 41st Annual Arts and Craft Fair on Townsend Common (Routes 119 and 13). This fall favorite is jam-packed with fun for everyone; 75 vendors, live music, artisan demonstrations, a petting zoo, children’s games, food, and more! You’ll not want to miss your chance to win one of the unique vendor-donated raffles. Proceeds help support the Townsend Historical Society.

18 SUNDAY, 10 AM–2:30 PM. TORI/ Nordic Outdoor Marketplace & Classic Car Cruise, 50/50 and Basket Raffle at the Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd., Fitchburg. Shop for Nordic wares, arts, crafts, jewelry, baked goods, books, music, and more! Show off your vehicle and admire others. Live music, food, and fun! Visit saima-park.org.

24 SATURDAY, 9 AM. Fitchburg Veterans Council’s 8th annual 5K at Hollis Hills Farm, 340 Marshall Road, Fitchburg. Registration starts at 8 am, race at 9 am.

24 SATURDAY, 6 PM. Fitchburg History Trivia, School House Rock edition at the Fitchburg Historical Society, 781 Main St., Fitchburg. Tickets: $25. Visit fitchburghistoricalsociety.com.

24-25 SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 11 AM–5 PM. Kids Fest at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area, Princeton. KidsFest is a celebration of children and young adults that features vendor activities, live shows, contests, walk around talent, athletic activities like climbing walls and a ninja warrior course, food trucks, live animals, contests and more! Two-days full of fun for the whole family. Visit wachusett.com.

Calendar

24-25 SATURDAY, 10 AM–5 PM; SUNDAY, 10 AM – 4 PM. Gesneriad Society Show & Sale at New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, 11 French Rd., Boylston. Enjoy a fantastic display of begonias and gesneriads presented by the Buxton Branch of the American Begonia Society and the New England Chapter of the Gesneriad Society. Visit nebg.org.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 11 AM–5 PM. Fitchburg Open Studios 2022 on Main St, Fitchburg. Take a free, self-guided, art discovery tour. Visit with as many artists and locations as you desire, with each stop offering its own unique and varied experience. Using the City of Fitchburg as the “core” of the tour, Open Studios branches off to include artists in several neighboring communities, all of which are within an easy drive of each other. Simply grab a map, plan your day, and enjoy a little “leaf peeping” along the way! See FitchburgOpenStudios on Facebook.

25 SUNDAY, 3 PM. Historical Piano Concert at the Ashburnham Community Church, Main Street, Ashburnham Akiko Kobayashi, violin and Eric Siepkes, piano, perform Mozart Two violin sonatas: K. 304 in e, and K. 296 in C; Beethoven Piano Sonata Op. 31, “Tempest”; and Violin Sonata No. 8 in G, Op. 30, No. 3. Piano by Ignaz Bösendorfer, Vienna (ca. 1830) from the Frederick Collection of Historic Pianos. Visit FrederickCollection.org for information. Admission is $15.00 per person; children and students, free of charge.

22 THURSDAY, 6:30 PM. Women in WWII at The Gardner Museum, 26 Pearl St., Gardner. Kara Fossey, Executive Director of the Fort Devens Museum and the Groton History Center will present an illustrated program about the various roles American Women played during World War II: military, civilian, and volunteer. WWII has been known as a time of liberation for women, and on the heels of the 100th anniversary of the culmination of the Suffrage Movement, it is a perfect time to remember both the struggles and victories that women faced after 1919. Special emphasis on Fort Devens and women from Massachusetts.

24-25 SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 10 AM–4 PM. Cream of the Crop Macoun Weekend at Sholan Farms, 1125 Pleasant St., Leominster. Join us as we unveil the finest eating apple in the region! Macouns may be your fave, too, but don’t delay — these apples are only available in the fall. Visit sholanfarms.com.

VisitNorthCentral.com

24 SATURDAY, 11 AM–5 PM. Hey Day at Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton. Celebrate Wachusett Meadow’s agricultural history at our annual Hey Day festival. Listen to live music, shop local vendors, and enjoy locally made foods and baked goods for sale. Admission includes all activities including canoeing, hayrides, pumpkin painting and more. Princeton Arts Society Members will have art on display and for sale.

25 SUNDAY, 11 AM–4 PM. Motorpalooza on Templeton Common, Routes 2A & 101, Templeton. The Narragansett Historical Society presents a car show, live music, food, tours of the Society building and more on this traditional New England Common.

18 SUNDAY, 2 PM. Mr. Strickland performs at the bandstand on Templeton Common, Routes 2A & 101, Templeton. Enjoy music from the ‘60s through ‘80s amid the glorious foliage of autumn on this picturesque common. Free. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, pack a lunch, and enjoy a relaxing family day.

17-18 SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 10 AM–4 PM. Autumn Festival of Quilts show at the Hawthorne Brook Middle School, 64 Brookline St., Townsend. The Squanicook Colonial Quilt Guild presents this show with over 200 stunning quilts on display. $7 admission. Visit the Guild on Facebook.

17-18 SATURDAY, 1–PM; SUNDAY, 10 AM–3 PM. New England Dahlia Society Show & Sale at New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, 11 French Rd., Boylston. There are few flowers that have the unique genetics of dahlias, which accounts for their amazing variability of forms, colors, and sizes.

Fall | Winter 2022 27

1 SATURDAY, 10 AM – 4 PM. 46th Annual Horseshed Fair at the First Church of Lancaster, 725 Main St., Lancaster. Crafters, quality antiques, items for sale, activities and food including Harvest Pies. Visit the Tea Room or the Lunch Box.

2 SUNDAY, 3 PM. Historical Piano Concert at the Ashburnham Community Church, Main Street, Ashburnham. Sergio Gallo performs works by Bach-Egon Petri, Domenico Scarlatti, Mendelssohn, Chopin and Liszt. Piano by Erard et Cie., Paris (1840 from the Frederick Collection of Historic Pianos. Visit FrederickCollection.org for information or email piano.fred@juno.com. Admission is $15.00 per person; children and students, free of charge.

29 THURSDAY, 3-6 PM. Farmers’ & Crafters’ Market on the Upper Common, Main Street, Fitchburg. Real Fresh Local Produce, meat, honey, fiber, soap & more.

7-8 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 7:30 PM. The Play That Goes Wrong at Theatre at the Mount, 444 Green St., Gardner. Welcome to opening night of The Murder of Haversham Manor where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. With an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines), it’s a riotous explosion of comedy. All seats $24. See mwcc.edu/tam for tickets.

14-15 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, DUSK TO 11 PM. Haunted Hayrides at Silver Lake Park, Athol. The Athol Lions Club takes young children on non-scary rides about 6 pm, followed by the regular, spookier rides for the brave, at dark. Refreshments available. Visit the Lions on Facebook for updates.

8 SATURDAY. Scarecrows in the Orchard Harvest Festival at Sholan Farms, 1125 Pleasant St., Leominster.

4 THURSDAY, 5 PM. First Thursday Intown Fitchburg, Main Street. Local shops welcome visitors, with pop-up food vendors, artists, music and entertainment, and family-friendly activities.

1 SATURDAY, 9 AM. Blacksmith and Renaissance Festival at Riverfront Park, Boulder Drive, Fitchburg. Attention lords, ladies, and children of all ages! See knights do combat and local blacksmiths demonstrating their crafts. Check Facebook for updated details.

9 SUNDAY, 1 PM. Pumpkin Weigh-In and Festival at Red Apple Farm. The Massachusetts Giant Pumpkin Association is organizing this event that will include live entertainment — and of course, the competition for who has grown the biggest pumpkin!

13 THURSDAY, 6–9 PM. Brian Walker performs at Wachusett Brewing Company 175 State Rd E, Westminster. Great music and fine brews — what more could you ask for? Visit wachusettbrew.com.

1 SATURDAY, 1 PM. South Street Band kicks off Rocktoberfest at Wachusett Brewing Company, 175 State Rd. East, Westminster. Visit wachusettbrewingcompany.com.

10 MONDAY, 5–9 PM. Cannoli Festival in downtown Leominster. Cannoli! What more do you need to know? You don’t have to be Italian to enjoy these luscious treats. Indulge yourself! Visit Leominster-ma.gov.

1 SATURDAY, 9 AM–4 PM. Fall Open House at the Reed Homestead, 72 Main St., Townsend. The Townsend Historical Society holds a daylong celebration of Revolutionary War history. The Reed Homestead comes alive with the sights and smells of the 18th century. Members of the Stow and Townsend Minutemen will demonstrate muskets and military drills, hearth cooking, and hands-on crafts. There will also be artisans and crafters on hand to show period crafts (such as blacksmithing, tinsmithing, and stenciling/painting).

1 SATURDAY, 7 PM. Rock Fest at Eagles 747, 71 City Hall Ave., Gardner. All Ages, $10 cover. Bar for 21+. Check it out on Facebook events.

2 SUNDAY, 6–8 PM. Halloween on Tolman opens at 83 Tolman St., N. Leominster. Take a walk through the dozens of inflatables (some lit up as well) daily through Halloween. There will also be a pumpkin patch where children can pick a pumpkin to bring home and carve. See christmasontolman on Facebook.

8 SATURDAY. Special Guest Tour of the S. K. Pierce Mansion, 4 W. Broadway, Gardner. This “one night only” tour of the haunted mansion is hosted by former resident Victoria Casanova, who will take visitors through the Mansion, recounting her many experiences while living there. A limited number of tickets available on the website, skhauntedvictorianmansion.com.

THURSDAY, 6:30 PM. Poetry Night at the Museum at the Gardner Museum, 26 Pearl St., Gardner. Published Boston/RI poet Ryk McIntyre has toured nationally and in Canada, opening for varied acts, and has performed his work at NYC’s New School, Boston’s ICA and Strand Theater, among others. He will present his poems, and the role of sobriety in his life.

14-16 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 7:30 PM, SUNDAY, 2 PM. The Play That Goes Wrong at Theatre at the Mount, 444 Green St., Gardner. See October 7-8 listing for details. Visit mwcc.edu/tam. Inside Out Dance Co. at Garlic Fest –see Garlic & Arts Fesival, October 1-2. Vanilla Fudge – see Bull Run performance, October 7.

25 SUNDAY, 2 PM. John McDermott performs at Fitchburg State University, 160 Pearl St., Fitchburg. CenterStage arts and culture series welcomes acclaimed singer John McDermott back to campus! McDermott, born in Scotland to Irish parents and raised in Toronto, draws from a wide repertoire of songs telling stories of love and war, of loss and history. A McDermott performance is a festival for the ears. Additional details and ticket information can be found at fitchburgstate.edu/centerstage.

6 THURSDAY, 7 PM. Rita Parisi shares “Gothic Victorian Tales” at the Fitchburg Historical Society, 781 Main St., Fitchburg. Free, donations accepted.

1-2 SATURDAY, 10 AM–5 PM; SUNDAY, 10 AM–4 PM. New England Carnivorous Plant Society Show & Sale at New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, 11 French Rd., Boylston. Featured plants will include pitcher plants from Malaysia with traps the size of softballs that are capable of eating lizards and mice. Visit nebg.org.

OCTOBER

2 SUNDAY, 10 AM–3 PM. Just a Bunch of Hocus Pocus Craft and Vendor Fair of Gardner at Jackson Playground and Skatepark, 151 Cross St., Gardner. Fair featuring more than crafters and vendors, food trucks and tents, children’s character visits, music, games, contests and more.

8 SATURDAY, 9:45 AM - 10:45 AM. Brewpub Yoga at Wachusett Brewing Company 175 State Rd E, Westminster. Zen Yoga & Wellness is a yoga-for-all practice, where all can participate, without judgment, and leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and ready for the weekend. The hour long class/practice will be followed by your favorite Wachusett pub beer. Preregistration required. Visit wachusettbrew.com for details.

9 SUNDAY, 3 PM. Historical Piano Concert at the Ashburnham Community Church, Main Street, Ashburnham. Stephen Porter performs works by Leos Janacek and Beethoven. Visit FrederickCollection.org for information or email piano.fred@juno.com. Admission is $15 per person; children and students, free of charge.

14 FRIDAY, 8 PM. Darrell Scott performs at the Bull Run Restaurant, 215 Great Rd., Shirley. Darrell Scott is a four-time Grammynominated Nashville songwriter, performer and recording artist, an in-demand multi-instrumentalist, playing 13 instruments, a producer and an ASCAP Songwriter of the Year. Visit bullrunrestaurant.com.

1 SATURDAY, 10 AM. Tractor Parade in downtown Leominster. Enjoy a country parade right in the heart of the city, then enjoy the tasty produce available at the Farmer’s Market in Monument Square, right there on Main Street, from 11 am – 2 pm. Visit leominster-ma.gov.

1-2 SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 10 AM–5 PM. Garlic & Arts Festival at Forster's Farm, 60 Chestnut Hill Road, Orange. A full weekend of food, crafts, music… and, of course, lots of garlic! Visit garlicandarts org

9 SUNDAY, 12:30 – 2:30 PM. Learn to Curl at the Petersham Curling Club, 250 North Main Street, Petersham. Learn the basics of the Olympic sport curling scoring, rules, etiquette, and on-ice instruction on how to throw a rock, sweep, and play a game. See more on Facebook at petershamcurlingclub60.

7 FRIDAY, 8 PM. Vanilla Fudge performs at the Bull Run Restaurant, 25 Great Rd., Shirley. In 1967, Vanilla Fudge rocked the world with a new sound, influencing a generation of musicians and creating a legion of loyal fans. For tickets, visit bullrunrestaurant.com.

15 SATURDAY, 8 AM – 10 PM. 1st Alarm at Hardwick Vineyard & Winery, 3305 Greenwich Rd., Hardwick. Sponsored by Hardwick Fire, Hardwick Vineyard & Winery and Hardwick Fireman's Association, this Firemen's Association Fundraiser features a car show, burnouts, tug of war, live music, food trucks and more.

15 SATURDAY, 10 AM–1 PM. Treasures from the Attic: An Antiques Appraisal Event at Townsend United Methodist Church, 265 Main St., Townsend. The Townsend Historical Society has partnered with Central Mass Auctions to bring back this antique appraisal day. Guests may bring up to three items to be verbally appraised by Wayne Tuiskula. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the door. There is no charge to come watch. Visit townsendhistoricalsociety.org.

15 SATURDAY, 1 PM. “WWII Souvenirs” at Fort Devens Museum, 94 Jackson Road, Devens. Well-known militaria collector, Bill Shea, will present a program on items brought home by soldiers from WWII. Visit fortdevensmuseum.org.

15-16 SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 11 AM–5 PM. Applefest at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area, 499 Mountain Rd., Princeton. Farmers market, live entertainment, food trucks, craft vendors, scenic skyride and more! Visit wachsuett.com for details and tickets. Repeats Oct. 22-23.

20 THURSDAY, 6:30 PM. All Shall Be Well at The Gardner Museum, 26 Pearl St., Gardner. Those encouraging words by 14th century mystic and anchoress, Julian of Norwich, have soothed humanity during its darkest times. Now is the time to revisit her words as we struggle through our greatest human reckoning to date. Presenter is Will Darcangelo, M.Div. Minister of First Parish of Fitchburg and First Church of Lancaster, columnist and blogger.

22-23 SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 11 AM–5 PM. Applefest at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area, 499 Mountain Rd., Princeton. Farmers market, live entertainment, food trucks, craft vendors, scenic skyride and more! Visit wachusett.com for details and tickets.

SUNDAY, 2 PM. Women’s Caucus for Art, “Drawing our Histories” at the Fitchburg Historical Society, 781 Main St., Fitchburg. Artist Talk and Creative workshop with Joanne Stowell and Massachusetts Women’s Caucus for Art. Visit fitchburghistoricalsociety.com.

23 SUNDAY, 3 PM. Maestro Bruce Hangen and the Vista Philharmonic Chamber Players perform at Groton Hill Music Center, 36 King St., Littleton. Maestro Bruce Hangen and the Vista Philharmonic chamber players present an enticing program for chamber orchestra, including Aaron Copland’s all-time favorite, Appalachian Spring, and featuring young harpist Li-Shan Tan in the music of Ravel. For tickets, visit grotonhill.org.

28 FRIDAY, 8 PM. Fabiola Mendez and Albino Mbie perform at Groton Hill Music Center, 36 King St., Littleton. Fabiola Mendez (Cuatro & Voice from Puerto Rico) and Albino Mbie (Guitar & Voice from Mozambique) bring their ensembles to Meadow Hall in an evening of global music from two continents that range from brilliant original songwriting to the deep traditions and jazz fusion that influence them both. Visit grotonhill.org.

15 SATURDAY, 12 PM. Tully Lake Triathlon at Tully Lake Campground, 25 Doane Hill Rd., Royalston. This 17-mile paddle/run/bike triathlon is designed to showcase all the best this region has to offer. Awards will be given to the top finishers in each of the following categories: Individual–Women, Individual–Men, Team–Two Person, Team–Three Person, and Team–Four Person. Racers must be 13 or older. Visit thetrustees.org.

15 SATURDAY, 11 AM – NOON. Professor Bugman – Creepy Bugs & Spooky Bones at the Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Rd., Townsend. Children learn about and get hands-on time with large and bizarre live insects, as well as real bones from different animals that we can find right here in our own back yards! Look, feel, and ask questions in this scientific event inspired by the spookiest time of year! Reservations required. Contact Elise Johnson, ejohnson@cwmars.org.

18 TUESDAY, 5:30–6:30 PM. Escape RoomCase of the Haunted Hotel at the Townsend Public Library, 12 Dudley Rd., Townsend. Ghosts are afloat in this Paris hotel, just as the owner is trying to sell. Check in at the Lobby, then visit some rooms, solve puzzles and codes, but beware of what looms. The Kitchen, the Gameroom, a Closet, and Lounge, see what information and clues you can scrounge. Solving this mystery shouldn't scare you away, Unlocking the answers might just save the day! For ages 12-17, reservations required. Contact Elise Johnson, ejohnson@cwmars.org.

15 SATURDAY, 10 AM. Rock Walk to Rollstone Hill, 960 Main St., Fitchburg. Take a slow and easy, comfortable and extraordinarily scenic two mile walk to the summit of Rollstone Hill. The story and history of the Rollstone Boulder, the quarries, and several other interesting sites along the way will be explored and the historical and cultural influence they had on Fitchburg will be discussed. Call 978-345-7000 for details.

Calendar

15 SATURDAY, 9 AM. Golf & Curl Biathlon at the Petersham Curling Club, 250 N. Main St., Petersham, and Ellinwood Country Club, 1928 Pleasant St., Athol. Try a unique experience: nine holes of golf and six ends of curling! Don’t know how to curl? No problem! Optional Friday night pickup curling starting at 6 pm includes a light snack. Register at petershamcurlingstore.org/golfncurl.

Winchendon Fall Festival, October 22.

15 SATURDAY, 9 AM-2 PM. Antique and Vintage Collectibles Marketplace at Petersham Town Hall, 3 South Main St., Petersham. 30 booths on two floors covering 2,600 square feet of retail space.

VisitNorthCentral.com28

27 THURSDAY, 6:30 PM. Bumbling through the Hindu Kush at the Gardner Museum, 26 Pearl St., Gardner. Local journalist and author Chris Woolf will talk about his new book, “Bumbling Through the Hindu Kush: A Memoir of Fear and Kindness in Afghanistan.” In 1991, he travelled to Afghanistan to visit a BBC colleague. They hitched a ride with an aid convoy and bumbled straight into the war.

28 FRIDAY, 8 PM. Acoustic Alchemy performs at the Bull Run Restaurant, 125 Great Rd., Shirley. For more than 30 years, Acoustic Alchemy has pushed the limits of the acoustic guitar’s potential by embracing a spectrum of musical styles ranging from straight-ahead jazz to folk to rock to world music and beyond. For tickets, visit bullrunrestaurant.com.

22 SATURDAY, 10 AM–4 PM. Winchendon Fall Festival on Central Street, Winchendon. Live entertainment, kids’ activities, street performances, bouncy houses, food and over 150 vendors fill Winchendon’s business district for a fun-packed family day. Visit townofwinchendon.com.

22 SATURDAY, 1–3 PM. Halloween Parade in downtown Leominster. Kids are invited to don a scary (or not-so-scary) costume and take a tour of the city’s business district, starting at the Leominster Credit Union on Adams Street. Visit Leominster-ma.gov.

Take the "Rock Walk" to the top of Rollstone Hill on October 15.

28-29 FRIDAY & SATURDAY. Haunted Walk to the Cemetery at Templeton Center, Routes 2A and 101. The Narragansett Historical Society invites you to take a stroll (if you dare) from The Society building on Boynton Road to the historic cemetery behind First Church of Templeton. Learn about the history of town center and its early inhabitants: their lives, daily struggles and some of the tragedies, wars and pandemics they faced.

15 SATURDAY, 10 AM – 5 PM. Westminster Cracker Festival on Main Street, Westminster. Visit the home of the historic cracker factory for a day filled with arts and crafts, food vendors, live music and a beer garden. Be sure to check out the Westminster Dog Show — a display of fanciful panted dogs throughout the area. The pooches will be auctioned as a fundraiser for the Westminster Village Foundation.

22 SATURDAY, 8 PM. Brian O’Donovan presents Celtic Roots and Branches at Groton Hill Music Center, 36 King St., Littleton. WGBH’s Brian O’Donovan brings the music of his popular, three-decade A Celtic Sojourn program to Groton Hill, exploring traditional and contemporary music from around the Celtic world. For tickets, visit grotonhill.org.

21 FRIDAY, 8 PM. Opening Night at Meadow Hall at Groton Hill Music Center, 36 King St., Littleton. Maestro Bruce Hangen and the Vista Philharmonic chamber players present an enticing program for chamber orchestra, including Aaron Copland’s all-time favorite, Appalachian Spring, and featuring young harpist Li-Shan Tan in the music of Ravel. For tickets, visit grotonhill.org.

22 SATURDAY, 8–10 AM. Pannukakku Breakfast at the Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd., Fitchburg. Finnish oven pancake, bacon, sausage, fruit, Finnish coffee bread, juice, coffee/tea/cocoa. Loaves of Finnish coffee bread for sale. Vendors of arts, crafts, and bee products; Raivaaja Foundation information table.

11 FRIDAY. Opening Day of the Annual Country Roads Holiday Tour. Visit 15 shops in the North County area, from Barre to Phillipston, Hubbardston and Templeton, for special products, prices, and prizes. The Tour of these businesses featuring everything from farm-fresh cheese to fine art, antiques, alpaca fiber products, and more, runs through December 11. Visit countryroadschristmas.com.

19 SATURDAY, 10 AM–1 PM. Holiday Farmer’s Market on Academy Hill in Westminster. Visit westminsterfarmersmarket.com.

12 SATURDAY, 9 AM–3 PM. Narragansett Craft Fair at Narragansett Middle School, 464 Baldwinville Rd., Baldwinville. The 43rd annual fair brings together crafters from throughout New England. Do all your holiday shopping here! Café open all day. Visit narragansettcraftfair.com.

Fall | Winter 2022 29 28-30 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 7:30 PM; SUNDAY, 2 PM. 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at New Players Theatre Guild Playhouse, 15 Rollstone St., Fitchburg. This musical comedy centers on a fictional spelling bee set in a middle school. Six quirky adolescents compete in the Bee, run by three equally quirky grown-ups. Repeats on Nov. 4-6. Visit nptg.org for tickets.

19-20 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 7:30 PM. Seussical the Musical at the Barre Players Theatre, 64 Common Rd., Barre. A musical perfect for the whole family, Seussical takes us into the world of Dr. Seuss, where we revisit beloved characters including The Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie, and JoJo. Repeats Nov. 25-27 and Dec. 2-4. Visit barreplayerstheater.org for tickets.

31 MONDAY, 6–8 PM. Trick or Treat & Bonfire at the Fire Station and on Bacon Street in Westminster.

17 THURSDAY, 4-6 PM. Indoor Farmers Market at Tata Auditorium in Leominster City Hall, 25 West St., Leominster.

18 FRIDAY, 8 PM. Mike Block and Balla Kouyaté Band perform at Groton Hill Music Center, 36 King St., Littleton. Kouyaté, a balafon player and singer coming out of the Djeli tradition of Mali, hails from the family who invented the balafon, and is an NEA National Heritage Fellowship recipient. Block is a classically-trained American cellist/singer/composer and Grammy Awardwinning member of the Silkroad Ensemble. For tickets and information, visit grotonhill.org.

5 SATURDAY, 6 PM. Fitchburg History Trivia, Turkey Day Edition at the Fitchburg Historical Society, 781 Main St., Fitchburg. Tickets: $25. Visit fitchburghistoricalsociety.com.

5 SATURDAY, 8 PM. Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper perform at Groton Hill Music Center, 36 King St., Littleton. International Bluegrass Musicians Association’s most-awarded Fiddle Player of the Year, Michael Cleveland was inducted to the National Fiddler Hall of Fame in 2018. For tickets, visit grotonhill.org.

19 SATURDAY, 9 AM–2 PM. Arts & Crafts Fair at the First Church in Sterling, 6 Meetinghouse Rd., Sterling. Visit three rooms of crafter booths, sponsored by friends of the Conant Public Library. Visit sterlinglibrary.org for details.

29 SATURDAY, 7–10 PM. Bowlaween at Putnam Lanes, Fitchburg. Enjoy bowling, raffles, comedy, prizes, a FUN-draiser for “Lucy’s Barn Foundation.” Lucy’s Barn is the new home of the Stratton Players. Tickets available at Putnam Lanes in the month of October.

19 SATURDAY 1 AM—12:30 PM. Workshop: Mushroom Tinctures with Rachel Goclawski at the Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union St., Clinton. Explore native wild medicinal mushrooms and how you can forage them during this info-packed workshop and lecture! Learn these mushrooms' identification, preparation, and therapeutic qualities with an interactive lecture and presentation while brewing and sipping native Reishi tea; make tinctures and tonics from medicinal mushrooms, which can help modulate immune systems against viruses, disease, and auto-immune-related conditions; and prepare a Mushroom Tincture with native wild mushrooms to take home, along with written instructions and mushroom info sheets. Registration required; visit museumofrussianicons.org.

19 SATURDAY, 10 AM TO 3 PM. Annual Miniature War Games Day at Fort Devens Museum, 94 Jackson Road, Devens. A day of miniature war games is back! No experience necessary to join in. Visit fortdevensmuseum.org.

4-6 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 7:30 PM; SUNDAY, 2 PM. 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at New Players Theatre Guild Playhouse, 15 Rollstone St., Fitchburg. See Oct. 28-30 listing for details. Repeats on Nov. 4-6. Visit nptg.org for tickets.

Food Truck Festival, at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area.

12 SATURDAY, 8 PM. Catherine Russell, Grammy-winning Jazz vocalist, performs at Groton Hill Music Center, 36 King St., Littleton. Visit grotonhill.org.

6 SUNDAY, 10 AM–4 PM. Holiday Craft Show at Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School, 1050 Westminster St., Fitchburg. More than 100 crafters exhibit at this show to benefit Monty Tech sports teams. Visit newenglandcraftshows.com.

29 SATURDAY, 12–2 PM. Trick or Treat on Main Street, Fitchburg. Bring the family and kids in costume to visit local businesses!

6 SUNDAY, 2 PM. Lydia Maria Child: The Frugal Housewife program at Townsend United Methodist Church, 265 Main St., Townsend. The Townsend Historical Society will hold a brief business meeting, followed by Lydia Maria Child: The Frugal Housewife. Best known as the author of the holiday classic Over the River and Through the Woods, Mrs. Child was a prominent author, abolitionist, teacher, novelist, and women’s rights advocate. Out of these contributions came the Frugal Housewife, one of the first guides to running a household in an economical manner. It is not hard to imagine this advice making its way from the book into the practice of every New England family. Learn more about how this book and Mrs. Child helped change the lives of residents in Townsend, the Commonwealth and beyond.

5 SATURDAY, 6–10 PM. Harvest Dinner Dance at the Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd., Fitchburg. Turkey dinner catered by Family Café. Reserve by Sunday, October 30; email finnishcenter@ yahoo.com or leave a text message or voice mail at 978-407-9690. Visit www.saima-park.org.

11 FRIDAY, 8 PM. Will Hoge performs at the Bull Run Restaurant, 215 Great Rd., Shirley. Will Hoge is a mainstay of 21st century rock & roll, carrying the torch for a blue-collar sound rooted in ringing Telecaster guitars and anthemic songwriting. For tickets, visit bullrunrestaurant.com.

9 WEDNESDAY, 1 PM. Opening for 6th Annual Festival of Trees at the Gardner Museum, 26 Pearl St., Gardner. The beloved event is open to the public starting today, until Saturday, Dec. 3. Exhibit is open Wednesdays, Thursdays 1–4 pm; Fridays 1–7 pm; Saturdays, Sundays 10 am – 4 pm.

30 SUNDAY, 11 AM–5 PM. BooFest at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area, 499 Mountain Rd., Westminster. Enjoy all things spooky and fun, with festive contests, ghoulish treats and entertainment for the whole family. Visit wachusett.com for details.

NOVEMBER 4-5 FRIDAY, 4-8 PM; SATURDAY, 9 AM-6 PM. Pumpkin Patch Food & Craft Fair at the Leominster United Methodist Church, 77 Hall St., Leominster. Craft fair plus a visit from Santa (noon –2 pm on Saturday)! Also enjoy a fried chicken dinner on Friday; and breakfast, lunch and dinner on Saturday. Visit leominsterumc.org for details.

12 SATURDAY, 6–9 PM. Downtown Athol Ladies Night on Main Street, Athol. Visit downtown Athol for some shopping and shenanigans! Participating stores have specials and discounts.

20 SUNDAY, 10 AM–2PM. Craft Fair at American Legion Post 373 Hall, 3 Central St., Baldwinville, sponsored by the post Auxiliary Unit. Visit Legion Post 373 on Facebook.

19 SATURDAY, 1 PM. “The Cocoanut Grove Fire” at Fort Devens Museum, 94 Jackson Road, Devens, Historian Bob Begin returns to the Fort Devens Museum with an illustrated program of the devastating November 1942 fire at the Cocoanut Grove, a popular nightspot in Boston. Several soldiers from Fort Devens perished in the fire as well as the daughter of one of the higher ranking officers on post. Visit fortdevensmusuem.org.

29 SATURDAY, 8 PM. Watkins Family Hour performs at the Groton Hill Music Center, 36 King St., Littleton. The Americana musical collaborative, led by Sara and Sean Watkins, will be one of the first groups to perform at the new venue. For tickets and more information, visit grotonhill.org.

5 11SATURDAY,AM–5PM. Fall Food Truck Festival at Wachusett Mountain Ski Area, 499 Mountain Rd., Princeton. Enjoy live music, a huge selection of beer and plenty of food to keep you full and happy all day long. Visit Wachusett.com.

29 SATURDAY, 2 PM. Tall Tales & Heroes, a children’s show, at Theatre at the Mount, 444 Green St., Gardner. As American as apple pie, this delightful musical introduces kids to the stories of Paul Bunyan, Johnny Appleseed, Calamity Jane, John Henry, Molly Pitcher and more! All seats $7. Visit mwcc.edu/tam for tickets.

31 MONDAY, 5–7 PM. Haunted Gazebo on Templeton Common, Routes 2A & 101, Templeton. The Templeton Lions Club offer an evening of slight spookiness for families, with plenty of candy for little ghosts and goblins.

19-20 SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 10 AM-4 PM. Thanksgiving Harvest Festival at Red Apple Farm, 455 Highland Ave., Phillipston. Local family farms and businesses come together to offer all the best fixings for your Thanksgiving table and home — plus features like the Brew Barn, face painting, pony rides & hayrides, Sattva Center for Archery Training (Saturday only!), blacksmith demonstrations, local live music, PYO ornamental corn, guided nature hikes, and more! Local vendors selling fresh crops and unique products from all over New England. Bring non-perishable food items to support our local food pantries (enter to win great raffle items for every 5 food donations)! Visit redapplefarm.com.

25-27 FRIDAY & SATURDAY 7:30 PM; SUNDAY, 2 PM. Silver Bells (It’s Christmas Time in the City) at Theatre at the Mount, 444 Green St., Gardner. The hustle and bustle of Christmas in New York City comes to the Theatre at the Mount stage in this traditional-meets-untraditional Christmas Spectacular! The elegance and excitement of Times Square, Radio City Music Hall, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral are filled with holiday music, love and laughter for the entire family…and a special visit from the big guy in the red suit himself! All seats $24. Visit mwcc.edu/tame for tickets. Repeats Dec. 2-4.

Calendar

2 FRIDAY, 8 PM. Seamus Egan performs at Groton Hill Music Center, 36 King St., Littleton. Egan is one of the leading composers and interpreters of traditional Irish music. Visit grotonhill.org.

15 THURSDAY, 4–6 PM. Indoors Farmers Market at Tata Auditorium in City Hall, 25 West St., Leominster. Get the goodies you’ll need for your holiday entertaining! Visit Leominster-ma.gov.

2-4 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 7:30 PM; SUNDAY, 2 PM. Seussical the Musical at the Barre Players Theatre, 64 Common Rd., Barre. See Nov. 18-20 listing for details. Repeats Dec. 2-4. Visit barreplayerstheater.org for tickets.

VisitNorthCentral.com

3 SATURDAY, 10 AM–2 PM. Visit with Santa at Forbush Memorial Lirbary, 118 Main St., Westminster. Visit forbushlibrary.org.

3-4 SATURDAY & SUNDAY, 6–8 PM. Living Nativity Scene at the Lutheran Church, Hager Park Road, Westminster.

11-30 NIGHTLY, 5–9 PM. Holiday Light Fight 2022 throughout the town of Pepperell. Local homes compete for the best holiday light display in Pepperell!! Maps are available online after Dec. 11 and will include the map, voting link instructions, and this year's iSpy game of lights. Visit pepperellfourth.org.

4 SUNDAY, 9 AM–4 PM. Holiday Open House at the Reed Homestead, 72 Main St., Townsend. Partake in merriment during this festive gathering complete with Christmas cookies and punch. Tours are provided to help you step back in time and escape the holiday rush.

10 SATURDAY, 1–5 PM. Birchbark Ornaments Workshop at the Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union St., Clinton. Enjoy the simple pleasure of crafting a decoration or gift from materials responsibly and hand harvested in Northern Vermont. Utilizing techniques common to the Russian and Scandinavian styles of basketry, you will create birds and stars using strips of inner bark from the paper birch tree. Each participant will make a total of three ornaments. The workshop will include information on the many uses and qualities of birch bark and how the material is harvested and prepared. Registration required; visit museumofrussianicons.org.

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 7:30 PM; SUNDAY, 2 PM. Seussical the Musical at the Barre Players Theatre, 64 Common Rd., Barre. See Nov. 18-20 listing for details. Repeats Dec. 2-4. Visit barreplayerstheater.org for tickets.

Birchbark Ornaments Workshop, December 10.

1-11 DAILY. Annual Country Roads Holiday Tour. Visit 15 shops in the North County area, from Barre to Phillipston, Hubbardston and Templeton, for special products, prices, and prizes. The tour of these businesses featuring everything from farm-fresh cheese to fine art, antiques alpaca fiber products and more, runs through December 11. Visit countryroadschristmas.com.

25-27

3 SATURDAY, 3–5 PM. Winter Stroll in downtown Leominster, followed by a Parade of Lights and Tree Lighting ceremony. Get in the holiday spirit in the heart of the city! Visit Leominster-ma.gov.

3-4 SATURDAY, 9 AM–3 PM; SUNDAY, 9 AM – 1 PM. St. Martin’s Holiday Fair at the American Legion hall, 3 Central St., Baldwinville. Raffles, a “Polish Auction” of more than three dozen beautifully packaged theme baskets, had-crafted ornaments and holiday decorations, baked goods, fresh wreaths made to order, and more! Stop in for lunch or a snack. Visit St. Martin’s Church, Otter River on Facebook.

4 SUNDAY, 3–5 PM. Holiday Stroll & Tree Lighting in downtown Leominster. See beautifully decorated store windows, enjoy music, do some shopping. Tree lighting at 5 pm.

11 SUNDAY, 3 PM. Light Beyond Shadow: A Christmas Celebration presented by the Greater Gardner Community Choir at Bethany Baptist Church, 72 Ryan St., Gardner. In addition to the principal work, "Christmas Oratorio" by Camille Saint-Saens, seasonal pieces from traditional to contemporary will be sure to delight and inspire. Tickets are available at the door. For information GGCC on Facebook or at ggcchoir.org.

19 THURSDAY, 4–6 PM. Indoor Farmers Market Gardner. Visit Leominster-ma.gov.

10 SATURDAY, 8 PM. Miguel Zenon Quartet performs at Groton Hill Music Center, 36 King St., Littleton. Miguel, a Puerto Rico native, is widely considered as one of the most groundbreaking and influential saxophonists of his generation, and is a multiple Grammy nominee. For details and tickets, visit grotonhill.org.

JANUARY 1-30 DAILY. Frozen Assets Challenge on Country Hen Pond, Route 68 in at Tata Auditorium in City Hall, 25 West St., Hubbardston. Take a guess — no, take five guesses! on when the pond’s ice will melt, sending the outhouse into the chilly waters. Contest forms are available at local stores until Feb. 1 … and then the wait begins. Visit hubbardston250 for details.

3 SATURDAY, 9 AM–2 PM. Historical Society Christmas Open House at the Westminster Historical Society, 110 Main St., Westminster.

2-3 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 7:30 PM. Let It SHOW – Winter Cabaret presented by the Stratton Players. Location to be announced. Family-focused Variety Show with songs, comedy, short sketches, and seasonal delight. Visit strattonplayes.com for updates

10 SATURDAY, 10 AM–4 PM. Holiday House Tour, starting at 151 Front St, Winchendon. The Winchendon History and Cultural Center invites you to enjoy the multiple well decorated homes around town. Start at the Murdock Whitney Mansion, and make a day of touring these beautiful buildings! Visit winchendonhistory.org.

1 THURSDAY, 8:30–11:30 PM. Brian Walker performs at Wachusett Brewing Company 175 State Rd E, Westminster. Visit wachusettbrew.com.

3 SATURDAY, 2–5 PM. Fox and the Dragon performs Hardwick Winery, 3305 Greenwich Rd., Hardwick. Visit hardwickwinery.com.

17 SATURDAY, 8 PM. Christmas Classics with Maestro Bruce Hangen and the Vista Philharmonic chamber players perform at Groton Hill Music Center, 36 King St., Littleton. Celebrate the magic of Christmas in traditional classical and holiday music, poetry and storytelling! Boston’s favorite actor, Jeremiah Kissel brings his talent for many voices and moods to join with our select string ensemble. Tickets at grotonhill.org.

Seamus Egan performs, December 2.

2-4 FRIDAY & SATURDAY 7:30 PM; SUNDAY, 2 PM. Silver Bells (It’s Christmas Time in the City) at Theatre at the Mount, 444 Green St, Gardner. See Nov. 25-27 listing for details. Visit mwcc.edu/tam for tickets.

4 SUNDAY, 2–5 PM. Tree Lighting at Templeton Common, Routes 2A & 101, Templeton. Start the season off with a tree lighting, carols, wreath sale and an open house at the Narragansett Historical Society building. Say hello to Santa, too

10 SATURDAY 10 AM–3 PM. Holiday Fair and Festival of Trees at the Townsend Library & Senior Center complex, 12 Dudley Rd., Townsend. The fair features crafters, homemade food cookies by the bag, games for kids, kids-only shopping and a visit by Santa. Visit townsendlibrary.org.

DECEMBER

2 FRIDAY, 5-10 PM. Opening night of Leominster Lights, with homes throughout the city decorated for the holidays. Event runs nightly through December 25.

3 SATURDAY EVENING. Tree Lighting at the Town Common on Academy Hill Road, Westminster.

30 21 THURSDAY. Opening of the Festival of Trees at Tata Auditorium in Leominster City Hall, 25 West St., Leominster. See a variety of decorated trees, through December 17. Hours vary; visit Leominster-ma.gov.

3 SATURDAY, 8–10AM. Pannukakku Breakfast at the Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd., Fitchburg: Finnish oven pancake, bacon, sausage, fruit, Finnish coffee bread, juice, coffee/ tea/cocoa. Loaves of Finnish coffee bread for sale. Vendors of arts, crafts, and bee products. Raivaaja Foundation information table. Visit saima-park.org.

PEPPERELL Saturday mornings, Town Field PETERSHAM Fridays, 3-6 pm starting May 27, Town Common SHIRLEY Thursday afternoons, Historic Common STERLING Friday afternoons, Butterick Building TEMPLETON Thursdays, 4-7 pm, Boynton Library

FRIDAY & SATURDAY EVENINGS at the Bull Run Restaurant, 215 Great Rd., Shirley. Visit bullrunretaurant.com.

20 MONDAY, 9 AM. George Washington Hatchet Hunt at the New England Equestrian Center, 802 New Sherborn Rd. Athol. It’s the 101st running of this popular local event. Children aged preschool to 15 are invited to scour the property, looking for hidden gifts. Pre-registration is required: Visit georgewashingtonhatchethunt on Facebook.

12 TUESDAY, 5:30 PM. Indoor Drive-in Movie at Tata Auditorium in City Hall, 25 Wet St., Leominster. No car? No problem! Turn a cardboard box into the vehicle of your dreams, then settle in to watch a family movie. Visit leominstercommunitydevelopment on Facebook for details.

FAMILY FARE THURSDAYS. First Thursdays of the month in intown Fitchburg. Free admission to the Fitchburg Art Museum, Fitchburg Farmers Market, Pop-up events, special deals. SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS, 11 AM. Puppet Shows at the PuppetDrawbridgeTheater, 1335 Massachusetts Ave., Lunenburg. The whole family can enjoy a live puppet performance in a small theater setting. Led shows are: September, Carnival of the MatildaBears;Animals/ThreeOctober,Witch&theFright Contest; November, Aladdin; December; Santa & the Christmas Trolls; January, Princess & Pea/Fisherman & His Wife; and February, Cinderella. $7.00 per ticket; call 978-5821578 or reserve online at drawbridgepuppets.com.

ENTERTAINMENT SUNDAYS Live Jazz Breakfast at the Gardner Ale House, 74 Parker Street, Gardner. Visit gardnerale.com.

2 THURSDAY, 8 AM. Groundhog Day with Featherstone in Monument Square, downtown Leominster. Forget that furry Phil from funforecastinginweather!andrightkitschypinkFeatherstone,ownLeominsterPuxatawny.hasitsprognosticator:theflamingflamingo.ThisiconwascreatedhereinLeominster,heknowslocalJointhemayorpeeringintothefutureforthisevent.

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS. Davis Farmland Discovery Farm and MegaMaze, 145 Redstone Hill Rd., Sterling. Kids under 12 will love meeting the animals, exploring Adventureland, and letting their imaginations soar at the Discovery Farm. Across the street, the MegaMaze offers a host of attractions, from a paintball shooting gallery to zip lines, fire pits, live entertainment, barbecue and more. Check it out at davismegamaze.com and davisfarmland.com.

25 SATURDAY, 8–10 AM. Celebrate National Sauna Week at the Pannukakku Breakfast at the Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd., Fitchburg. Oven pancake, bacon, sausage, fruit, Finnish coffee bread, juice, coffee/tea/cocoa. Loaves of coffee bread for sale. Vendors of arts, crafts, and bee products. Visit saima-park.org.

25 SATURDAY, 10–2. Ski Trail Open House at the Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd., Fitchburg. Saima Park’s trails will be open to the public for skiing and snowshoeing, or hiking. Free admission. Donations welcome. Visit saima-park.org.

THURSDAY, FRIDAY & SATURDAY EVENINGS, 5–8 PM, IN SEPTEMBER. Local musicians perform in front of the Woodblock Building, 14 Monument Square, Leominster. Ski Trail Open House, Saturdays in February.

SUNDAYS Table-side entertainment by George, named one of Boston’s top rated magicians, at Happy Jacks’ Restaurant, 785 North Main St., Leominster. Kids love him and adults will feel like kids again Fun for the whole family. Visit happyjacksrestaurant.com.

ASHBURNHAM Last Saturday morning of the month through October, Meeting House Hill BARRE Saturday mornings, on the Common FITCHBURG Thursday afternoons, Upper Common; Monday afternoons, Health Alliance

28 SATURDAY, 8–10 AM. Pannukakku Breakfast at the Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd., Fitchburg: Finnish oven pancake, bacon, sausage, fruit, Finnish coffee bread, juice, coffee/tea/cocoa. Loaves of Finnish coffee bread for sale. Vendors of arts, crafts, and bee products. Raivaaja Foundation information table. Visit saima-park.org.

24 FRIDAY, 10 AM–2 PM. Once Upon a Time at Tata Auditorium in City Hall, Leominster. Bring the kids for a fun vacation week event.

LEOMINSTER Saturday mornings, Monument Park LUNENBURG Sunday mornings, the Ritter Building ORANGE Thursday afternoons, Butterfield Park

24 FRIDAY, 10 AM–2 PM. Once Upon a Time at Tata Auditorium in City Hall, 25 West St., Leominster.

DAILY Who cares what the weather is like outside? Hot, cold, sunny, cloudy… no matter, it’s always balmy in Great Wolf Lodge Lodge New England! Water slides, pools, a ropes course, MagiQuest adventure games — there’s always something for the whole family to do at America’s premier indoor water park resort, right here at 50 Great Wolf Drive, Fitchburg. Visit greatwolf.com/new england for details.

ONGOINGFARMERS’MARKETSNOTE: Most local farmers’ markets run through September or into October. Since closing dates vary and outdoor markets are dependent on weather, check websites or Facebook pages for details.

FEBRUARY

THURSDAY, 6–8 PM. Gardenmania in City Hall, 25 West St., Leominster. We know it’s winter, but now is the perfect time to start thinking about your spring garden! Chat with some of Leominster’s businesses and organizations. You’ll be able to purchase items for your garden and earn more about the resources available in the area. If you love to garden, or always wanted to give it a try, this is for you! Visit Leominster-ma.gov.

HARVARD Saturday mornings, Hildreth Elementary

WEDNESDAYS THROUGH SUNDAYS. Discover Ancient Egypt at the Fitchburg Art Museum, 185 Elm St., Fitchburg. This interactive gallery introduces visitors to the wonders of one of the oldest and most accomplished civilizations in recorded history. Realistic paintings of ancient tomb walls bring both the history and art of ancient Egypt to life. See murals depicting Egyptian religious beliefs, a real child mummy, small sculptures, everyday objects, a miniature diorama about mummification, and hands-on activity stations. Visit fitchburgartmuseum.org for details and hours.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT YEAR ROUND at Hardwick Winery, 3305 Greenwich Dr., Hardwick.

WINCHENDON Thursday & Saturday afternoons, 128 Central Street WESTMINSTER Fridays, 3-6:30 pm. Academy Hill, rain or shine.

Fall | Winter 2022 31

Loeminster's mayor and pink flamingo. Puppet shows at the Drawbridge Puppet Theater.

*Information provided by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, and subject to change. For up-to-date hours of operation, visit mass.gov/agr/ or check them on Facebook.

GARDNER Thursday mornings at Monument Park GROTON Friday afternoons, Williams Barn, Chicopee Row

18 SATURDAY, 10 AM–2 PM. Ski Trail Open House at the Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd., Fitchburg. Saima Park’s trails will be open to the public for skiing and snowshoeing, or hiking. Free admission. Donations welcome. A limited supply of equipment is available to borrow. Visit saima-park.org.

4 SATURDAY, 10 AM–2 PM. Ski Trail Open House at the Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd., Fitchburg. Saima Park’s trails will be open to the public for skiing and snowshoeing, or hiking. Free admission. Donations welcome. A limited supply of equipment is available to borrow. saima-park.org.Visit 11 SATURDAY, 10 AM–2 PM. Ski Trail Open House at the Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd., Fitchburg. Saima Park’s trails will be open to the public for skiing and snowshoeing, or hiking. Free admission. Donations welcome. A limited supply of equipment is available to borrow. Visit saima-park.org.

Exit 86 rotary in Gardner, under a railroad bridge. 15 Main Street, Fitchburg. Visible from River Front Park, Boulder Drive.

VisitNorthCentral.com32

B igger than life, and oh, so easy to find — the large-scale outdoor murals in North Central Massachusetts offer an intriguing glimpse into the creative minds of local artists. They also spotlight the history and culture of the region — so take an easy walking tour of downtown Fitchburg to learn about its past and enjoy some thought-provoking art! There’s a lot to see: On the side of the Putnam Street garage, a towering five-story mural features a portrait of local civil rights activist Adrian Ford. At 2 Boulder Drive, a retaining wall holds images of five city youths and inspirational phrases, including, “Our dreams have power,” while just up the street, another colorful mural “celebrates the power of art and creativity as a force of inspiration, healing and innovation.”

On Summer Street, you’ll be met with four unblinking pairs of eyes — reflecting the city’s connections to four historic figures: Suffragist Lucy Stone; local industrialist Alvah Crocker; Booker T. Washington, a leading walkcity’sindustrialistJohnson,toStreet,anCharlesandofAmericanAfricanintellectualthe19thcentury;FitchburgnativeJudsonBecker,earlyblackeducator.Stopby15MaintobeintroducedbicyclemakerIveranotherkeyfromthepast.ContinueyourtoRiverfrontPark, just off Boulder Drive, where a mural created a 2 Boulder Drive, Fitchburg.

Fall | Winter 2022 33 few years ago looms over the Nashua River — a tribute to Marion Stoddart, an environmental activist whose pollutedcleanupdecadesdeterminationrelentlessoverledtotheoftheonce-river. Enjoying your outdoor art tour? Hop onto Route 2 to Gardner, and as you take the Route 68 exit, you’ll notice a mural of a berotaryAfamerepresentingfurniturehard-workingmaker—thecity’sastheChairCity.secondmuralatthatisonitsway…sosuretovisitoften!§ Putnam Street Garage. At the corner of Summer and Winter Street, Fitchburg. Near 90 Boulder Drive. Check our Facebook Page for Times and Daily Promotions. OutrageousSizzlin’Featuring....Fajitas,Burritos,MouthwateringBurgers,andsomuchmore! 978.632.1057 | exit 86 off rte 2 242 W. Broadway | Gardner, MA 01440 Margaritas!SSGRILLE.COMMojitos!@southsidegrilleOutdoorseatingisavailablethisseason.

Curl Up with a Good Rock You’ve watched during the Winter Olympics… in total bewilderment. Yes, curling is an Olympic sport — but without the recognition afforded to speed skating, skiing, or even the heart-stopping luge. But here’s your chance to demystify that icy bit of teamwork. On Sunday, October 9, the Petersham Curling Club will offer an opportunity to learn curling. In two short hours, you can learn the basics, from scoring to rules and etiquette, along with on-ice instruction on how to throw a rock, sweep, and play a game. Like what you see? You might just want to become a regular, and be able to show off your newfound knowledge when the Milano Cortina games roll around in 2026! Learn more about this ancient Scottish sport on Facebook at petershamcurlingclub60.

T here’s no shortage of fun events in North Central Massachusetts — but we’ve highlighted a few of our faves to enjoy while you’re visiting the region. Get out your calendar, and pencil in these special celebrations.

Sounds of the Past I f pianos are your passion, you absolutely must visit the Frederick Collection of Historic Pianos in Ashburnham — and the concerts presented each fall and spring there. The Collection— assembled by Patricia and Edmund Frederick — encompasses more than two dozen grand pianos, by important makers whose instruments were highly regarded in their day. The instruments, acquired in basically good condition, with most of their original materials intact (especially soundboards) are carefully restored to sound as they would have when first crafted. In presenting the Historical Piano Concerts at the New Dawn Arts Center in Ashburnham Center, the Fredericks work to match each instrument to a specific composer or generation of composers known to have used or preferred that make and vintage of piano. The period of pianos in the Collection extends from about 1790 to 1928, representing music from Haydn and Beethoven through the French Impressionists.

Then Fitchburg has just what you need! The city’s Cultural Council is again organizing an Open Studios Tour, providing an opportunity for you to interact with creatives in their personal studios and workspaces, as well as “pop-up” locations in and around downtown Fitchburg and neighboring communities.

Hot

Take Studioa Tour Are you curious about what local artists are creating these days? Looking for art to add to your collection? Or simply curious about the creative process?

More than two dozen sites will be listed on the tour map, all within Tickets

VisitNorthCentral.com34

Looking for a unique concert experience? Check the Calendar section of this Guide (or visit frederickcollection.org) for details on this fall’s concert schedule, running on Sunday afternoons from September 4 through October 9.

Patriotic and playful, floral and fanciful, these creatively-adorned statues will be on display into October before being auctioned as a fund-raiser for the Westminster Village Foundation. You can see them any day — just swing through town on Route 2A — or take some time to visit them, up close and personal, during the Westminster Cracker Festival on October 15. Decorated by area artists and residents, the dogs were “unleashed” last summer, and have been brightening local lives since then — but it’s time for them to be adopted by new owners. Time is running out for you to go to the dogs and enjoy this playful public art! 39 Mass Ave. Lunenburg, MA Roasted Coffee Café & Bakery visit our roastery, bakery, and espresso bar in Lunenburg. Our from-scratch bakery features gluten-free and vegan options and our mochas are out of this world. for more terrific events to enjoy in this region? an armchair stroll through the Calendar section (page 24-31) of this issue of The Guide — and let us entertain you!

Fried Chicken Dinner, 4:30 – 6:00pm Saturday, Nov. 5 Breakfast, 9am – 11:30am Lunch, 11:30am – 4:00pm (à la carte) Roast Pork Dinner, 4:00 – 5:30pm an easy walk or drive of each other. Ceramicists, photographers, painters, glass artists… the variety of artists who will welcome you on September 24 and 25 is amazing! Check out the up-to-date Fitchburg Open Studios list and map on Facebook, and take the tour! Going to the Dogs T his fall is your last chance to check out the painted pooches gracing sidewalks and front yards of Westminster’s Main Street!

Fall | Winter 2022 35

Looking

Take

www.smokestackroasters.com10462 Fresh

Come

Leominster United Methodist Church Nov. 4 4 – 8pm Nov 5 9am – 6pm 77 Hall St. & Merriam Ave 978-537-1356 Friday, Nov. 4

Reviving a Tradition

the steam rooms that served those who didn’t own their own saunas. The Saima center will recognize that oncefamiliar tradition on February 25, when it opens its Sauna Museum for the day to celebrate National Sauna Week. The little museum building, no doubt, will hold lots of memories for local residents of Scandinavian heritage. The Center’s sauna, built in 1957, was used by its members and athletes who attended its numerous athletic events. The museum, which includes a display of Lappland art, a history of how the sauna developed through the centuries, and a display of Finnishmade items, will be open during the Center’s February 25 Pannukakku BreakfastUnfortunately,event. the past 40 years — along with neglect and vandalism — have not been kind to the building. Over the past nine years, though, restoration work has been underway, bringing it to the point where it is open on special occasions. There’s still much to do, though, before it can be again used as a sauna. Still, for many local Finns, the memories linger. After the arrival of Swedish and Finnish immigrants in the late 1800s, a number of steam baths opened in the Gardner neighborhoods where they settled. The first steam baths of Gardner opened virtually next door to one another on Pine Street, while another soon opened on Monadnock Street; the longest-lived one — the Chair City Steam Bath — was located on West Street. There is, of course, a difference between a sauna — which uses dry heat — and a steam bath, with its moist air. But back when indoor plumbing was a luxury for some, a public steam bath was a welcome visit. For many hardy Finns in the region, a cold shower, dip in a lake or — in the winter time — a roll in a snowbank — completed their visit to the sauna or steam bath. These businesses were popular spots into the mid-twentieth century, when interest faded, leading to closures and even demolition of buildings. The Chair City Steam Bath, however, held on, with a brief closing around the turn of the century. But you can’t keep a good idea down forever. New owners and a new name have revived this losttowelcomingmodernized,hasChairSteamNowScandinavianpopulartradition.billedastheEZClub,theformerCitylandmarkbeenrenovatedandandisagainvisitorsexperienceanearly-tradition.§

VisitNorthCentral.com36

Saima sauna interior. Saima sauna building. Inside the Chair City Steam Bath, now known as the EZ Steam Club.

R esidents and visitors looking for a place to cross-country ski or to enjoy a traditional Finnish breakfast know that the place to go is the Finnish Center at Saima Park in Fitchburg. Pannukakku Breakfasts featuring Finnish bread and oven celebrationspancakes,ofSt.Urho’s Day, and the Kesajuhla/ Summer Festival keep ethnic traditions alive. But lakesidesaunasyears:byhasScandinavian-traditionanotherprettymuchfallenthewaysideinrecentatriptothethatoncedottedproperties,or

Fall | Winter 2022 37 At Leominster Credit Union, we all belong to a purpose that goes beyond everyday banking. Our mission is to improve the financial well-being of our members and communities. And with no shareholders, earnings at LCU help improve rates and assist local organizations. At LCU you’re somebody who belongs, and it starts with membership. (800) 649-4646 leominstercu.com Leominster | Clinton | Holden | North Leominster | Sterling | Worcester You’re Somebody Who Belongs Visit us today. Home of the $3.95 a yard Fabric Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Closed Sunday & Monday (978) 878-9514 55 Airport Road Fitchburg, MA 01420 Open Thursday–Sunday, 10am-4pm | Closed Monday–Wednesday Free admission the first Sunday of each month 203 Union Street, Clinton, MA 01510 | museumofrussianicons.org MUSEUM OF RUSSIAN ICONS 125 Still River Rd., Bolton, MA | 978-779-2733 | www.BoltonOrchards.co Quality at the Crossroads • Local Apples Available Year-Round • Just Pressed Cider • Market Fresh Fruits & Vegetables • Homemade Entrees & Soups • Deli Sandwiches • Ice Cream • Gourmet & Specialty Items • Fruit Baskets • Homemade Bakery Items & Pies Open Daily, Year-Round, 9–5

See the Light(s)!

VisitNorthCentral.com38 O n a evening,Decembercrisp what could be aheart-warmingmorethancruisethroughlocal communities, enjoying the holiday lights? While there’s always the hit-or-miss method of light-seeing, there are places you can visit that provide an organized trip down Holiday Lane.

Battles of the Bulbs Don’t be fooled by Hubbardston’s moniker for the town’s seasonal tour. The Holiday Light Fight is more like a battle of the bands than a round in the ring. Last year, more than 40 homes participated in this sparkling tour, all putting their best and brightest foot forward in hopes of earning a “best of show” title. Participants can enter in three aimlesslydon’t5arethroughfromSaturdaysonBrightestBigtraditional/classic,categories:GoorStayHome,orBulbBusiness.TheLightFightrunsweekends(Fridays,andSundays)December1130;thelightsliveeachnightfromto9pm.Andyouhavetowanderthroughtown: pick up a paper map at One Stop Shop (Mr. Mikes gas station) in the center of Hubbardston, or visit the town thehubbardstonma.us.website,Attheotherendofregion,Pepperell also offers a Light Fight Challenge, running from 5 to 9 nightly from Dec. 11 through 30. The battle’s categories are Traditional, Fun Blow Ups, Griswold Style, and Participation/ Charlie Brown. And to add to the fun, there’s an “eye spy” game for the kids! Pick up a map at C&S Pizza, Pizza Pizzazz or the Pepperell Family Pharmacy to plan your tour. Then pack up the kids, turn on some holiday tunes, and spark your holiday spirit! Leominster Lights The city of Leominster will shine for the month of December, right through waytoLightspostedinteractivefromSaturdaysbeLeominsterChristmas.LightswillsparklingonFridays,andSundays,5-10pm.AnmapwillbeontheLeominsterFacebookpageguideyouonyourasyoutraversethe city, filling your car with shouts of delight at each stop along the way. And if inflatable characters are your faves for the holidays, don’t miss Christmas on Tolman, a massive display of blow-ups presented by Tyler Yalian at 83 Tolman Ave. in North Leominster. The lighted characters— from snowmen to caroling angels, gnomes, Santas, and, yes, even a green Grinch—turn on at 5 pm, and really light up the season! If weather and ground conditions permit, you can walk around the yard, completely surrounded by the fun. There is a small fee for touring Lights at Sholam Farms. Christmas on Tolman, Santa.

Fall | Winter 2022 39 the display and taking a photo with Santa, when he visits, with proceeds benefiting local charities. A View at the Top While you’re in Leominster, take the trek up to Sholan Farms, 1125 Pleasant St., where you’ll not only get a great panorama of the city below — complete with myriad holiday lights — but can also enjoy a bright and musical display. No need to exit your cozy car for this one. Stay bundled under a blanket, tune your car radio to FM89.5, and surround yourself in the sounds and sights of the season! The Christmas Light Show — which changes nightly throughout the week — features thousands of lights, props like singing faces, spinners, stars, and snowflakes, and 15 to 20 minutes of music. It runs each night, with music playing in a loop from 5 to 9 p.m. Night Lights in the Garden No local tour of holiday lights would be complete, of course, without mention of the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. This winter wonderland will take your breath away, as you walk through the display of sparkling lights. The show runs from late November through December, from 4 to 10 pm daily at 11 French Drive, Boylston. Immerse yourself in enchanting landscapes, fun experiences, and thousands of lights. Enjoy s’mores, seasonal drinks, the model train, and fun photo opportunities while creating memories for the whole family. Tickets are needed to visit Tower Hill, and can be purchased in advance by visiting nebg.org. Tickets go on sale at the end of October. § Mon-Tues, 9 am-9 pm | Wed-Fri, 9 am-10 pm Saturday, 10 am-10 pm | Sunday, 10 am-7 pm Game On Fitchburg provides outdoor and indoor space for sports activity, community events, corporate outings, meetings, parties, banquets, leadership and team building activity, and classes. With a Sports Bar and Grill Restaurant and fully operational kitchen we also can meet your catering needs. Visit our website to see current and future events. GAMEONFITCHBURG.COM Contact us today at info@gameonfitchburg.com. 100 Game On Way, Fitchburg, MA 01420 978-956-4111 NARRAGANSET T CRAFT FAIR 43rd Annual Narragansett Middle School 464 Baldwinville Rd., Baldwinville MA  Do all your Holiday Shopping early! C OFFEE CAN AUCTION !  CAF É OP E N AL L D AY ! Saturday, November 12, 2022 • 9 AM~3PM Organized by: Phillipston Youth Supporters Explore the Murdock Whitney Mansion and Toy Town Toy Museum, Gi Shop and Ice Cream Parlor at the Winchendon History and Cultural Center. While you’re there, try out the Escape Room and join the “Secret Society.” Call 978-833-3025 to schedule. winchendonhistory.com • winchendonescape.com Open Wed. 10-4, Sun 1-4 and by appointment. e Murdock-Whitney House 151 Front St. • Winchendon, MA Toy Town Museum 135 Front St. • Winchendon, MA Barre Common. Photo by Mitchell R. Grosky.

consistently excellent customer experience, and a ski and snowboard school. An expansive base lodge boasts three restaurants and bars, and a full-service ski shop. Those amenities, along with a prime location accessible to big urban population centers and affordable lift tickets, make Wachusett one of the busiest ski resorts in the country by volume. Yet it’s easy to find uncrowded slopes on early mornings, weekdays and at night. With a morning-tonight, weekdayintowork-from-homers,wakeswithschedule,seven-days-a-weekWachusettpulsesitsownrhythmthatwithretireesandslidesschoolbusgroupsonmid-afternoons, and finishes with evening festivities that kick off at dusk with the arrival of the 20-something after work group. Weekends flaunt their own style, with fun paramount, tunes spilling from the loudspeakers, special events and skiers and riders sunning themselves on the heated deck.

Wachusett Women's Day.

Need a break from all that activity? Stop by the slope-side Bullock Lodge Cider House for some coffee, hot cider and a snack! Photo by Jessica Woodward.

Like Ski Season!

OutdoorsGreat

“The mountain,” as it’s affectionately known locally, puts the fun in winter for an astoundingly diverse crowd that ranges from novices and families to teenagers performing acrobatic tricks in the terrain park and grizzled adult night league racers who speed down the Challenger race trail clad in colorful skintight race suits.

Time

VisitNorthCentral.com40 By Shaun Sutner W ith the first forecasts drivesgaslongcloudeddreamshurry.ofandofenthusiaststemperatures,plummetingofskibegindreamingsparklingwhitetrailstheadrenalinerushheadingdownhillinaFortunately,thosedon’thavetobebythoughtsof(andwithtoday’sprices,expensive)todistantslopes.Cradledontheverdant

flanks of Mount Wachusett in the heart of North Central Massachusetts is a national-class ski area with a rabidly loyal ski and andartterrain,oneighthigh-speedemployerisbottlingnation’sownCrowleyownedchains.eraAreasouthernWorcester,followingsnowboardingfromBoston,andacrossNewEngland.WachusettMountainSkiisaprizedrarityintheofcorporateskiareaIt’sindependentlyandoperatedbythefamily—whoalsoPolarBeverages,thelargestindependentcompany—andthelargestseasonalintheregion.Wachusettboaststhreechairliftsamongliftstotal,27trails110acresofvariedastate-of-the-snowmakingsystemsnowgroomingfora

And Mount Wachusett really is a mountain, not a hill. At 2,006 feet, it juts handsomely on the Princeton-Westminster line over the valleys between the Pioneer Valley and Boston, with lovely views of Wachusett Lake and New Hampshire’s mighty Mount Monadnock to the north. As a feeder area to

There’s “Snow”

Fall | Winter 2022 41 ArtisanOriginalGiftsQuality&Art56 Main Street (Rt. 12) Ashburnham, Massachusetts (978) 827-6211 • ccgiftgallery.com Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-6pm 80 Dealers • Reproductions West Village Antiques 445 Main Street West Townsend, MA (Entrance in rear) Corner of Rt. 119 & Canal Street (NH Rt. 124) Phone or Fax (978) 597-0332 E-mail: hobart.village1@verizon.net Open 6 days 10 - 5 pm, Closed Tuesday hobartvillage.com bigger resorts, Wachusett is tasked with a critical mission: recognizable100expertly,familydownhillownseasonsnowboardersintoincalledInnewcomersonboardingtosnowsports.industryparlance,it’s“conversion,”asconvertingnewbiesregularskiersandwhowillbuypassesandtheirgearandmakeslidingonsnowalifetimepastimeandpassion.Thistheskiareadoeswithmorethantrainedinstructorsintheirredski school jackets. Inexpensive learn-to-ski and ride programs cater to firsttimers and experienced riders seeking to hone their skills. Beginner packages come with gear rentals and even lift passes for those who love sliding on snow right away and want to try on their own. The Polar Kids program is for 4-8-year-olds, who then graduate to the Arctic Aces for ages 9-12. Customizable group, semi-private private and group lessons are available on demand. Beyond the ski and snowboard school, Wachusett provides more specialized programs for school groups, disabled skiers, women skiers and riders, aspiring adult racers, and youth racers and ski and snowboard freestylers. For that youthful freestyle community –one of the most vibrant and fun segments of the snow sports industry –Wachusett’s terrain park complex is a magnet for ski and snowboarders who push the limits of on-snow creativity in a designated area set aside for them equipped with massive jumps and funky features. With roots that date to the early 1960s with a couple of T-bar lifts, the modern history of Wachusett began in 1968 when the late Ralph Crowley and an associate won the bidding for the state lease to operate the ski area. Today, moreonofoffutureforstayresortprofessionallyMountainWachusettisamodern,runskithatpromisestounderfamilycontrolmanyyearsintothewiththearrivalathirdgenerationCrowleymanagersthesceneandalotfuntocome.§ 978.425.6290 | SHIRLEY,2INFO@SITKACREATIONS.COMSITKACREATIONS.COMSHAKERROAD,SUITED101MA01464 We manage social accounts and design content for a variety of social platforms!

Pine Acres Family Camping Resort 203 Bechan Rd., Oakham facebook.com/pineacres508-882-9509

Avidia Bank is a $1 Billion mutual community bank, headquartered in Hudson, MA with branch offices in Hudson, Westborough, Clinton, Leominster, Marlborough, Northborough and Shrewsbury. BankHometown 9 Sack Blvd., bankhometown.com888-307-5887Leominster

ATTRACTIONS

VisitNorthCentral.com42

ART GALLERIES Gardner Area League of Artists (GALA) 135 Front St., Galagardner.orgWinchendon

Jeffrey’s Antique Co-op Mall 54 Chase Rd., jeffreysantiquecoopmall.com978-582-7831Lunenburg

Personalized, comprehensive banking solutions. Fidelity Bank 9 Leominster Conn., Leominster fidelitybankonline.com800-581-5363 We’ve made it our business to become experts of Personal Finance. Fidelity Bank provides financial services to help our customers get where they want to be. GFA Credit Union 229 Parker St., Gardner gfafcu.com978-632-2542

RBT is a full-service community bank specializing in commercial banking and wealth management since 1846. TD Bank 470 Main St., tdbank.com800-322-3264Worcester

We are focused on creating a family friendly environment. Thirsty Robot Brewing 265 Summer St., (Rear), Fitchburg 978-895-5931thirstyrobotbrewing.com

Workers Credit Union is a full-service financial institution offering competitive deposit and loan products. Founded in 1914 with 16 branches.

CIDERIESWINERIESBREWERIES,& Gardner Ale House 74 Parker St., gardnerale.com978-669-0122Gardner Started by home brewer Rick Walton in 2006, Gardner Ale House is a familyoriented brewpub and restaurant, with a casual, bistro style menu, 12 to 14 awardwinning beers on tap and live music.

We are a ragtag collection of misfits who find solace in working hard to produce beer that you will enjoy. Our focus is on aroma-packed and flavor-driven beers, with an emphasis on New England IPAs.

CAMPING Lamb City Campground 85 Royalston Rd., Phillipston lambcity.com978-249-2049

Places to visit, people to see, things to do! Funstuf Party Place. Gardner Ale House.

This Vineyard & Winery is home to a Federal style mansion and a 5,000 Square ft. timber frame barn. Six varietals of French hybrid grapes are used to make our award-winning wines.

FALL-WINTER MEMBERS 2022 Members

Wachusett Brewing Company, Inc. 175 State Rd. E, Westminster wachusettbrew.com978-874-9965

Visit GALA’s unique Art Gallery and immerse yourself in artwork in various mediums and affordable prices. Rotating art shows, workshops, gift shop.

Red Apple Farm Cidery 455 Highland Ave., Phillipston redapplefarm.com978-249-6763

Family owned and operated for over 30 years. Over 200 sites, full hookups, 17 pull thru, tenting, RV rentals, cabins, sewage disposal, full-service store, 2 recreation halls, 3 pools, more.

BANKING Avidia Bank 470 Lancaster St., Leominster avidiabank.com800-508-2265

TD Bank Massachusetts, a division of Bank, N.A., has 160 branches in Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire, including Fitchburg, Leominster, Gardner, Athol and Orange.

Large multi-dealer antique shop offering an eclectic and ever-changing stock of antiques and collectibles, furniture, country décor, vintage toys, and more.

Hardwick Vineyard & Winery 3305 Greenwich Rd., Hardwick hardwickwinery.com413-967-7763

Twice voted Park of the Year nationally! We offer a variety of options – from tenting to waterfront sites, rustic cabins, RV rentals. Big rig friendly! Boating, fishing, pool, kids splash pad.

Wachusett Brew Yard is open 7 days a week for you to enjoy our great food, live music, and our award-winning beers. Visit us online for up to date information!

ANTIQUES Hobart Village Antique Mall 445 Main St., West Townsend hobartvillage.com978-597-0332

england Great Wolf Lodge redefines year-round, weatherproof family fun, with a massive 84-degree indoor waterpark, exclusive to resort guests; MagiQuest; indoor ropes course and more.

Workers’ Credit Union 815 Main St., wcu.com978-345-1021Fitchburg

Game On will be the premier sports center of New England. We offer both indoor and outdoor sports, including lessons, camps, clinics, and tournaments, we also have 6 axe-throwing lanes, a bar, arcade room and a restaurant! Great Wolf Lodge 50 Great Wolf Drive, Fitchburg greatwolf.com/new978-343-9653

Fresh hard ciders made from our own apples. Dry & semi-sweet flagship ciders plus special blends & heritage varieties. Outdoor cider garden, country store and Moon Hill beer on tap. River Styx Brewing 166 Boulder Dr., Ste. 112, Fitchburg riverstyxbrewing.com805-807-4238

Funstuf Party Place 791 Water St., funstufpartyplace.com978-342-5000Fitchburg Let us help you bring more FUN to your event and capture some great memories. Remember, at Funstuf Party Place “It’s All About The Party!” Game On PerformanceSportsCenter 100 Game On Way, Fitchburg gameonfitchburg.com978-956-4111

For over 125 years, we have believed the best approach to a people business is always doing the right thing. Investing in what matters. For us, that’s our customers and communities. Enterprise Bank and Trust Company 420 John Fitch Hwy., Fitchburg enterprisebanking.com978-656-5689

An antique mall featuring 80 dealers; re-creation rooms with new country furniture, farm tables and Amishmade oak furniture; and furniture and collectibles from local estates.

As a member of GFA, you are an owner. Your deposits help others in our community who need financing for their first home or to expand a small local businesses. IC Federal Credit Union 300 Bemis Rd., Fitchburg iccreditunion.org800-262-1001 IC has been providing local communities in central Massachusetts with quality banking solutions for over 93 years. We strive to go beyond products and services and help our members achieve financial wellness. Leominster Credit Union 20 Adams leominstercu.com978-537-8021St.,Leominster LCU is a member-owned, not-forprofit financial cooperative with seven branches in Clinton, Holden, Leominster, Sterling and Worcester. Rollstone Bank & Trust 780 Main St., rollstonebank.com978-345-1061Fitchburg

EDUCATION Applewild School 120 Prospect St., Fitchburg applewild.org978-342-6053

Mount CommunityWachusettCollege 444 Green St., mwcc.edu978-632-6600Gardner Offering quality education at affordable prices, MWCC offers several degree and certificate program options to fit your life goals. Sizer School 500 Rindge Rd., Fitchburg sizerschool.org978-345-2701

One hundred acres of rolling farmland, owned and operated by the Chandler family since 1912. We harvest apples, blueberries, pumpkins, nectarines and raspberries. Farm-store and bakery. Plain View Farm 130 Gardner Rd., Hubbardston plainviewfarmalpacas.com978-820-1199 Stop by to see and meet the alpacas! Visit the gift shop for quality items made from alpaca fiber – yarn, socks, hats, gloves, scarves, sweaters and more! Red Apple Farm 455 Highland Ave., Phillipston redapplefarm.com978-249-6763

Formal indoor seating area accommodating up to 95; covered patio; barbecue/ picnic area; covered shelter; and a beautiful gazebo for your on-site wedding ceremony and pictures.

Specialty food store with local apples and cider available year round. Fullservice deli and produce departments; bakery; flowers; gift baskets; oldfashioned ice cream and coffee café. Brookfield Orchards 12 Lincoln Rd., North Brookfield brookfieldorchardsonline.com508-867-6858

Cushing Academy is a private, coeducational college-preparatory school for boarding and day students in Ashburnham. It serves approximately 400 students in grades 9–12 and a postgraduate year.

Leominster’s boundaries encompass the very essence of New England, from a hilltop apple orchard to a lively downtown, 26 miles of trails, 12 annual events, and unique local shops and restaurants. Town of Lunenburg 17 Main St., lunenburgma.gov978-582-4130Lunenburg

The “Town of Many Lakes” is home to Mount Watatic with its stunning views and the multi-state Midstate Trail. Enjoy vibrant arts and agricultural communities, shops, and dining. Town of Clinton 242 Church St., Clinton clintonma.gov978-365-4119

City of Leominster. Brookfield Orchards.

Brookfield Orchards’ family friendly country store has been supplying local communities with delicious apples for over 100 years! Established in 1918, our 5th Generation Family Farm continues to offer a quintessential New England experience. Sholan Farms 1125 Pleasant St., Leominster sholanfarms.com978-840-3276

The last working apple orchard in Leominster, birthplace of Johnny Appleseed, offers walking-hiking trails, picnic area, cross-country skiing, and cultural events; U-Pick fruits; Christmas trees. Hollis Hills Farm 340 Marshall Rd., Fitchburg hollishillsfarm.com978-696-3130

We are your one stop shop for everything local. Wines, Craft Beers, Hard Ciders & more. We offer Dom's meats, Smith's cheese, ever so humble pies, fudge, chocolates, and cut flowers. Meadowbrook Orchards 209 Chace Hill Rd., Sterling 978-365-7617meadowbrookorchards.com

Clinton is home to the Wachusett Dam and Wachusett Reservoir. It is also home to several industrial manufacturing companies. City of Fitchburg 718 Main St., fitchburgma.gov978-829-1801Fitchburg

The Chair City is on the move! Our downtown is evolving, manufacturing is growing, technology companies are expanding, and new businesses are opening, in the heart of Massachusetts. City of Leominster 25 West St., leominster-ma.gov978-534-7500Leominster

As you travel north on Routes 202,12,140, you may pass through the quiet Town of Winchendon, MA. A town rich in history; forever growing with infrastructure improvements and flourishing businesses. Take a stroll down the Winchendon Rail Trail, a 5.4 mile trail leading to delicious food, culture and activities our little town has to offer. Welcome!

We are a family owned and operated farm. Our retail store sells our own maple products, local ice cream, and a variety of other local products. Our restaurant and outdoor bar are open seasonally and we offer pick your own fruits and flowers. In the Meadow Farm 40 Page St., inthemeadowalpacas.com978-696-3332Lunenburg Our farm offers a complete alpaca experience. Take a tour and interact with the alpacas. Take a felting or knitting class. Host an alpaca party for any occasion or bring your group for a fun field trip. Yoga sessions Saturday mornings April–October. Shop in the gift shop for all things alpaca. Festivals hosted throughout the year. Lanni Orchards 294 Chase Rd., Lunenburg lanniorchard.com978-582-6246

Enjoy attractions ranging from Fitchburg State University to historic downtown architecture and the Fitchburg Art Museum. Visit fitchburgma.gov to learn more! City of Gardner 95 Pleasant St., Gardner gardner-ma.gov978-257-4136

Town of Ashburnham 32 Main St., ashburnham-ma.gov978-827-4100Ashburnham

Fall | Winter 2022 43

FACILITIESFUNCTION The 228 in Sterling 228 Leominster Rd., Sterling, the228insterling.com978-870-0605

The Town maintains a rural flavor, with farms and orchards. Nashua WatershedRiverAssociation 592 Main St., nashuariverwatershed.org978-448-0299Groton

FSU offers undergraduate and graduate programs with an emphasis on careerorientated learning that’s firmly grounded in the liberal arts, and selected majors in traditional arts and sciences.

Town of Westminster 11 South St., westminster-ma.govWestminster With easy access to Wachusett Mountain, Leominster State Forest and the Midstate Trail, Westminster is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Spend the day touring scenic farms and historic buildings. Town of Winchendon 109 Front St., townofwinchendon.comWinchendon

Rota Spring Farm 117 Chace Hill RotaSpringFarm.com978-365-9710Rd.,Sterling Delicious, good old-fashioned homemade ice cream made on the premises! Watch the cows grazing, and our goat petting zoo. Stop by the Farm Store for fresh produce and grass-fed beef.

Guided by its commitment to diversity and inclusiveness, Sizer School seeks to send graduates into the world who THINK for themselves, CARE about others, and ACT creatively and responsibly.

Applewild School provides excellent, affordable education to families in North Central Massachusetts. Cushing Academy 39 School St., cushing.org978-827-7000Ashburnham

FARMS Bolton Orchards 125 Still River Rd., Bolton boltonorchards.co978-779-2733

The Pines Campground 39 Davis Rd., thepinescampground.com978-386-7702Ashby A four-season family campground with swimming pool, hot showers, planned weekend activities, store, heated bathroom, firewood, ice, picnic areas, and recreation hall.

Fitchburg State University 160 Pearl St., fitchburgstate.edu978-345-2151Fitchburg

Our farmstand and country store are filled with pies, dumplings, cider, donuts, fudge, fresh produce. Pick apples, peaches, berries, pears, pumpkins, potatoes, sunflowers, and Zinnias. Visit the animals and take a hayride. Don't forget to visit the Brew Barn, Cidery, BBQ pit and restaurant.

PARTNERSCOMMUNITY

Conserve open spaces for water quality, wildlife habitat, farms, forests, and recreation.

Museum of Russian Icons.Maguire House Bed & Breakfast.

We treat you the way we’d want to be treated! Winchendon Furniture 13 Railroad St., Winchendon winchendonfurniture.com978-297-0131

The Fitchburg Art Museum is a catalyst for learning, creativity, and community building located in the heart of North Central, Massachusetts. Come and experience inspiring art historical collections, special exhibitions of contemporary New England art, education programs, and exciting community events. Plan your visit today! Museum of Russian Icons 203 Union St., museumofrussianicons.org978-598-5000Clinton

VisitNorthCentral.com

Maguire House Bed & Breakfast 30 Cobb Rd., maguirehouse.com978-827-5053Ashburnham

The premier racing complex in the northeast, RC Excitement is home to family racing fun, with indoor and outdoor tracks to challenge all skill levels. Hobby and RC repair shop.

Situated on the footprint of the original Groton Inn, the new TGI offers professionally designed guest rooms, public spaces, meeting and banquet rooms and the Forge & Vine restaurant.

44 The Harrington Farm Country Inn & Restaurant 178 Westminster Rd., Princeton harringtonfarm.com978-464-5600

Enjoy affordable accommodations near skiing, Boston and nature. The Rodeway Inn® offers you a solid deal on a simple stay in Westminster. Our hotel is located just right off Route 2, tucked in the rolling hills of North Central Massachusetts.

Mully’s Indoor Golf Lounge 44 Old Princeton Rd., Fitchburg mullysindoorgolf.com978-696-3152

A not-for-profit, full service, acute care hospital and member of UMass Memorial Health Care, offers direct access to advanced medical technology and specialty services. Emerson Hospital 133 Old Rd. to Nine Acre Crnr., Concord emersonhospital.org978-369-1400

LODGING Chocksett Inn 59 Laurelwood Rd., Sterling chocksettinn.com978-422-3355

At Emerson, we believe quality health care is as much about your overall experience as a patient as it is about expert clinical care.

Nearly 70 years offering Americanmade solid wood and finely crafted upholstered furniture. Offering everything from classic traditional styles to the soft-modern designs of today.

The Colonial Hotel, is one of Central Massachusetts’ most romantic hotels & wedding venues. This 112 room hotel, idealizes New England charm & quintessential hospitality. DoubleTree by Hilton 99 Erdman Way, Leominster Leominster.doubletree.com978-534-9000

Come and experience our new virtual indoor golf facility. We are the premier indoor golfing facility with Trackman, the best simulators in the industry. Nashoba Paddler, LLC 398 West Main St., Groton nashobapaddler.com978-448-8699 Canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rentals, tours, and instruction on the Nashua River. Easy paddling on a beautiful, forested river. Group discounts. Open May - October. RC Excitement 208 Bemis Rd., Fitchburg RCexcitement.com978-342-3374

Nine-hole golf course featuring rolling hills, stone walls, tree lined fairways and views of Mt. Wachusett. Sterling National Country Club 33 Albright Rd., Sterling sterlingcc.com978-422-0275

GOLF Gardner Municipal Golf Course 152 Eaton St., Gardnergolfcourse.com978-632-9703Gardner

MUSEUMS Fitchburg Art Museum 185 Elm St., fitchburgartmuseum.org978-345-4207Fitchburg

The Maguire House is an award-winning B&B surrounded by 44 private acres with spectacular views of Mt. Monadnock, Upper Naukeag Lake, and rolling hills. Enjoy queen-sized beds, private baths, fresh flowers, gourmet chocolates, full breakfast, refreshments and free Wi-Fi. Rodeway Inn 183 Main St., choicehotels.com978-874-5951Westminster

With an unparalleled natural setting, outstanding course and elegant dining. HEALTH CARE UMass Memorial - Health Alliance Clinton 60 Hospital Rd., Leominster healthalliance.com978-466-2000

Colonial Hotel 625 Betty Spring Rd., Gardner colonial-hotel.com978-630-2500

FURNITURE Gariepy Furniture 91 Central St., gariepyfurniture.com978-537-4383Leominster

A 25-room, all-suite hotel. All rooms have full kitchens. Meeting rooms and function spaces, both indoors and outdoors. Specializing in relocations and long-term stays.

LaChance Interiors, Inc. 501 W. Broadway (Loft), Gardner lachancefurniture.com978-630-3299

Harrington Farm is a full-service event venue providing the most elegant and detailed experiences in Central Massachusetts.

The Groton Inn 128 Main St., thegrotoninn.com978-448-6600Groton

RECREATION Cornerstone Ranch 29 Dowds Ln., cornerstoneranch.orgPrinceton Cornerstone Ranch provides a quiet, focused atmosphere based on the joy of riding. We specialize in riding lessons, trail riding, birthday parties, horse-drawn rides, and year-round activities for all ages.

A higher end, fine furniture resource showcasing 80% domestic products, including cherry bedroom, dining room and occasional furniture designed and manufactured right here in Winchendon.

Descent Divers 6 Main St., Leominster descentdivers.com978-230-730 From specialty courses to professional, we have the course for you. Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area 94 Jackson Rd., Suite 311, Devens freedomsway.org978-772-3654 We are committed to promoting, preserving, enhancing, and curating the natural, cultural, and historical resources within our 45 communities.

Four sets of tees await golfers of all abilities. Beginners can shorten the course or you can challenge yourself and step back to the tips, 6131 yards. Call to set up your tee time today. Settlers Crossing Golf Course 994 Northfield settlersgolf.com978-582-6694Rd.,Lunenburg

Easy access North Central Massachusetts communities and attractions in Boston, Providence, beyond. Spacious accommodations, modern amenities, indoor pool, fitness center. Great Wolf Lodge 150 Great Wolf Dr., Fitchburg greatwolf.com/new978-343-9653 england Massive 84-degree indoor waterpark, exclusive to resort guests. Battle a dragon while playing MagiQuest, challenge the climbing wall.

Founded in 2006 by Nypro plastics industrialist Gordon B. Lankton. The largest collection of its kind in North America – and one of the largest private collections outside Russia. RB Racing Museum 300 Lunenburg St., (rear), Fitchburg 978-345-7227 ronbouchard.com/ rb-racing-museum Start your engines — and head to the RB Racing Museum, honoring the memory of local NASCAR legend Ron Bouchard. See Ron’s 1981 Talladega winning #47 car.

NIGHTCLUBS Partner’s Pub 970 South St., partnerspub.net978-345-5051Fitchburg Partner’s Pub is home to the best craft beer selection in North Central Massachusetts with 26 rotating drafts! Come in and try our Homemade Bar Pizza.

Members

Wachusett Mountain Ski Area. Doughboys Pizzeria.

The Worcester Railers are a professional ice hockey team based in Worcester, Massachusetts. The team is a member of the Northern Division of the Eastern Conference of the ECHL.

Worcester Railers HC 105 Commercial St., Worcester railershc.com508-365-1756

Fall | Winter 2022 45

Serving fresh and locally sourced food from area farms and businesses, Chef Smith and his team work to create delicious, savory and beautifully plated meals for every visitor. Aroma Joe’s 200 New Lancaster Rd., Leominster aromajoes.com719-649-7190

With locations in Townsend and Lunenburg, our Ice Cream stands focus on Customer Service and a great family experience. Chopsticks Restaurant of Leominster 21 Commercial Rd., Leominster chopsticksleominsterma.com978-534-0020

Wachusett Mountain Ski Area 499 Mountain Rd., Princeton wachusett.com978-464-2300 With a 1,000-foot vertical drop and 2,006-foot elevation, Wachusett Mountain offers big mountain skiing in southern New England: 26 trails, 110 acres for all abilities and 8 lifts.

The Center, founded in 1930, exhibits its large collection at the 22-room Murdock-Whitney House Museum. A new Toy Museum features Converse Toys.

BrazilianComeketoSteakhouse 23 Sack Blvd., comeketo.com978-466-1224Leominster At Comeketo we are pleased to bring Brazilian-style Rodízio to our friends and family. Doughboys Pizzeria 150 Main St., Doughboys-pizzeria.com978-345-8003Fitchburg Come on in, sit down and enjoy a hot slice of pizza & a cold brew. We have a variety of Pizza, subs, burgers and more to choose from. Gardner Ale House 74 Parker St., gardnerale.com978-669-0122Gardner

A family-oriented brewpub and restaurant. Everything on our casual, bistro style menu, with 12 to 14 award-winning beers on tap. Open 7 days a week. Sunday brunch buffet, 9 am-1 pm. Gold Bowl 22 Ashby State 978-348-2088Rd.,Fitchburg goldbowlleominster.com With years in business, we have grown to be a professional in the industry. Adhering to the principle “customer is the King,” we always dedicate to providing our customers with quality food and the sincerest service, aiming to assure you remarkable dining experience.

Winchendon History and Cultural Center 151 Front St., winchendonhistoricalsociety.org978-297-2142Winchendon

Il Forno Restaurant 494 Electric Ave., Lunenburg il-forno.com978-345-2511

RESTAURANTS 110 Grill 7 Mill St., 110grill.comLeominster Modern American cuisine in a trendy, casual atmosphere. Exceptional service, a seasonal menu, a scratch kitchen with the freshest ingredients, and a strong commitment to allergy awareness. 873 Café and Tavern 873 Main St., Ashby 873cafe.com

Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton massaudubon.org/wachusett978-464-2712

Bustling family-run eatery featuring wood-fired pizzas & other classic Italian dishes plus BYOB. Kimball Farm in Lancaster 1543 Lunenburg Rd., (Rte 70), Lancaster kimballfarm.com978-534-9800 For over 75 years, Kimball Farm has served its famous, homemade ice cream. Fresh seafood at the Seafood and Grill Shack (April-October). Country Store, April-December. Legends Bar & Grille 68 Airport Road, Ste. 10, Fitchburg legendsbarandgrille.com978-342-6500 Come and enjoy the great variety of menu items for you! Main Street Gift and Café 40 Main St., mainstreetgiftandcafe.com978-534-5090Leominster We work with local suppliers to source the freshest, highest quality offerings to help support the local economy. We pride ourselves on providing organic, fair trade coffee. Sit, relax and chat or look around at our unique selection of cards and gifts. Moe’s Southwest Grill 865 Merriam Ave., Leominster massachusetts/leominstermoes.com/find-a-moes/978-401-2657

We have authentic, fresh Mexican food. Restaurant now open in downtown Gardner for eat in and take out. The Barn Door 51 South St., ablebarndoor.com978-448-3144Pepperell We are a small family-owned business with a passion for our community and the local artisans that call it their home. The Central Cup, Coffee & Cupcakery 139 Central St., thecentralcup.comLeominster At Central Cup, we make our orders from scratch, daily, with the finest ingredients. Besides our desserts, we offer fresh, high quality coffee and espresso drinks. The Fix Burger Bar 14 Monument thefixburgerbar.com978-534-5900Sq.,Leominster

A full service restaurant and entertainment venue set in an historic 1740 Tavern. Top name entertainment, trivia night, Musical Bingo, Friendly Friday sing-along and Saturday Jazz. Function space up to 300. Cherry Hill Ice Cream 826 Leominster Rd., Lunenburg 53978-582-7955MainSt.,Rte 119, Townsend cherryhill-icecream.com978-597-0011

Chopsticks Restaurant & Bar offers authentic and delicious tasting Chinese & Japanese cuisine in Leominster, MA. Our restaurant is known for its variety in taste and high quality fresh ingredients. Come and experience our friendly atmosphere and excellent service.

We feature custom and local grinds of fresh beef, and over 40 toppings ranging from classic to exceptional, allowing guests to enjoy a signature “Fixed-Up” burger. The Fix pours great beers and amazing craft drinks and shakes using house syrups and the freshest ingredients. The Lazy Bubble 112 Main St., Ste. #5, Pepperell thelazybubble.com978-925-9777

Central Massachusetts' Best Margarita selection and Tex Mex Food. Live music every Friday and Saturday night. Taco Rey Coliman 7 Pleasant St., 978-632-7400Gardner

Chef Chris' unique style of International Comfort Foods utilizes local and organic ingredients in our scratch recipes, including salad dressings, breads, sauces and even ketchup! Our menu changes frequently, and offers an authentic Hungarian Entrée of the Day from his family recipes. The Vegan Nest Café 54 High St., thevegannestcafe.com508-292-0035Clinton

Fueling the modern world by focusing daily on the customer. Bull Run Restaurant 215 Great Rd., bullrunrestaurant.com978-425-4311Shirley

You'll feel welcomed from the second you walk through the doors. And that's bound to continue as you get a fresher than fresh burrito, bowl or whatever you're craving made just for you from our 20+ fresh and flavorful ingredients. Old Mill Restaurant & Country Store 69 State Rd. E, (Rte 2A E), Westminster 1761oldmill.com978-874-5941 Full-service family restaurant serving delicious meals with old-fashioned hospitality. Sunday breakfast and brunch. Luncheon buffet and dinner menu daily. Country Store and Gift Shop. Slattery’s Restaurant 106 Lunenburg St., Fitchburg slatterysrestaurant.com978-342-8880 Cozy, long-standing pub with outdoor seating offering a large American menu & numerous draft beers. South Side Grille 242 W. Broadway, Gardner ssgrille.com978-632-1057

Always plant-based. Always made with love. Bringing wellness to your family.

A former farmstead with historic buildings, barns, spectacular scenery, woodlands, wetlands, and meadows. 12 miles of trails; facility rentals, snowshoe/canoe rentals.

Members

The Kitchen Garden.

Fromagerie Madeline is a familyowned and operated creamery and cheese shop, located in downtown Leominster. Our driving purpose is to make world-class, fresh cheese for our community and share our love of cheese and cheesemaking with all. Golden Girl Granola 2 Shaker Rd., Ste. C205, Shirley goldengirlgranola.com978-425-5058

The business has grown to include a deli, beer & wine, groceries, flowers, coffee, pastries and the list goes on. Stop in and try our specialty oils and vinegars. Roots Natural Foods 100 Crawford St., Leominster facebook.com/rootsnaturalfoods978-534-7668

Is a locally owned and operated small business that purchases pallets, lots, and truckloads of merchandise from major retailers. We strive to give you the best price possible! Fabrics N Things 55 Airport Rd., fabricsnthings.com978-878-9514Fitchburg

An extensive collection of gifts, from soy candles to blown glass, pottery, hand-crafted jewelry and fine audio gear. Foodies will appreciate our gourmet items, confections, whole bean coffees and teas. Cutie Patuties Consignment 1021 Central St., Leominster cutiepatuties.com978-534-6604

We are a full service paving contractor based out of Westminster for over 14 years. We are a family owned company specializing in residential and commercial asphalt paving and maintenance, and also offer excavation, drainage and site work. Visit us online or call for your free estimate! WPKZ Radio sales@kzone1053.com978-343-3766

The leading resinous coatings contractor in the Northeast, specializing in decorative and designer epoxy, urethane mortars, cementitious coatings, and concrete polishing. SERVICES Fitchburg Municipal Airport 567 Crawford St., Fitchburg fitchburgma.gov/175/Airport/978-345-9580

We are a general aviation airport serving North-Central Massachusetts since 1929.

Fitchburg Public Library 610 Main St., fi978-829-1780Fitchburgtchburgpubliclibrary.org Since 1859 the Fitchburg Public Library connects with your world. Joshua Allen Design 153 Clinton Rd., Sterling joshuaallendesign.com508-901-9919

The oldest family owned and managed chain of hardware stores in America operates throughout New England and Upstate New York, plus HardwareStore.com.

WPKZ 105.3FM & AM1280 is your local community radio station and Sox affiliate. Our weekday co-hosts will get your day off to a winning start with local news, traffic, and more from 6am-9am.

Baked goods, including Finnish coffee bread, made daily in our kitchen. Ice cream shop open May-October. New England gifts, specialty foods, Scandinavian gifts and books, and more.

VisitNorthCentral.com

Organic produce, vitamins & herbs, natural body care, organic & natural grocery, bulk foods & spices – and our new creation, the Roots Kitchen! Get healthy food on the go or have a seat!

Your Central Mass headquarters for gently loved clothing, shoes, and accessories for kids, teens and ladies. Huge selection of favorite brands and styles with over 50,000 items available every day. East Coast Sales & Liquidations 139 John Fitch Hwy., Fitchburg eastcoastsalesliquidation.com978-627-3659

Cold Stone Creamery 80 Orchard Hill Park Dr., Leominster Coldstonecreamery.com978-537-9000

Our Ice Cream is hand-crafted and made fresh in every store. Cold Stone Creamery also has specialty cakes for every occasion. There is always something to celebrate, so stop in at Cold Stone Creamery Leominster, MA. Creative Connections 56 Main St., ccgiftgallery.com978-827-6211Ashburnham

For 96 years Stratton Players has been a warm and inviting place where friends and family can come and see wonderful theatrical productions. Performances currently at Applewild School. N Things.

We are passionate about bringing you the most amazing selection of new and discontinued fabrics, notions, sewing supplies, and crafts. We carry a large selection of cottons, fashion, quilting, and home decorating fabrics. Farm at Baptist Common 342 Baldwinville Rd., PO Box 157, 978-939-8146Templeton Forty delicious flavors of homemade fudge. Many seasonal themes great for all occasions. We sell our famous fudge at craft shows, fairs, festivals and at the Johnny Appleseed Visitor Center. Fromagerie Madeline 43 Main St., fromagerie-madeline.com978-466-5849Leominster

The Mall at Whitney Field, located in Leominster, Massachusetts, features Burlington, JCPenney, Old Navy as well as more than 60 specialty shops. Come stop by and check us out! Black CoatingsBear& Concrete 644 River St., blackbearconcrete.com978-405-0017Fitchburg

46 RETAIL Alicia’s Spice Co. 12 Aitchison St., Worcester aliciasspiceco.com774-303-0354

Our Spices are All Natural, Gluten Free, Kosher, Keto, Vegan and low Sodium. We set out to develop great tasting recipes that focus on wholesome ingredients. W. E. Company,AubuchonInc. 95 Aubuchon Dr., Westminster hardwarestore.com978-874-0521

Looking to buy, sell or invest in the North Central Region? Your local real estate connection, bringing you home. Polar Beverages 1001 Southbridge St., Worcester 508-749-2382 polarbeverages.com Polar Beverages, New England’s largest independent soft drink bottler, is a fourth-generation, family-owned business that traces its roots back to 1882. The Break Bike Shop 872 Main St., Thebreakbikeshop.com978-627-3045Fitchburgor978-503-9174

At the Break we love bikes and fun. We focus on being inclusive to everyone that loves bikes as much as we do. Service focused bicycle shop with over 20 years of experience repairing all types of bikes. Wachusett Paving 60 Sargent Rd., Westminster wachusettpaving.com978-230-6666

The Kitchen Garden 268 Baldwinville Rd., Templeton templetonkitchengarden.com978-939-8558

Our goal is to design innovative, functional, and beautiful spaces for each individual client with options that work within any budget.

Michelle Haggstrom Realtor KWNC 670 Mechanic St., Leominster MAHomeConnections.com978-660-9912

Kringle Candle 31 Kringle Dr., kringlecandle.com413-648-3077Bernardston Kringle Candle offers more than 200 fragrances, all in décor-friendly white wax. Country Barn shopping; Farm Table Restaurant; and Chocolate Cottage, featuring sweet treats. Mill No. 3 Farmstand 85 Westminster St., Fitchburg millno3.com978-345-1100

The Mall at Whitney Field 100 Commercial Rd., Leominster themallatwhitneyfield.com978-537-7500

THEATERS Stratton Players 98 Prospect St., Fitchburg Strattonplayers.com978-345-6066

Smith’s Country Cheese 20 Otter River Rd., Winchendon smithscountrycheese.com978-939-5738 Old fashioned family traditions and hard work combine to produce our Farmstead Cheeses. Anyone who recognizes the appeal of farm fresh milk will enjoy the rich and creamy flavor of our Gouda, Havarti, and cheddar cheeses. We also carry gourmet local food items, home décor, and more!

Golden Girl Granola™ produces gourmet products for consumers who appreciate good taste. Flavors including Forest Maple and Chocolate Decadence, can be found in grocery and specialty stores.

Fabrics

Fall | Winter 2022 47 Wachusett Mountain Ski Area 499 Mountain Road, Princeton MA 01541 978 464 2300 Operated in cooperation with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation LET US TEACH YOU WITH OUR ONE OR THREE DAY LEARN TO SKI/RIDE PACKAGE FOR DETAILS GO WACHUSETT.COMTO

48 DIRECTORY OF @VisitNCM@visitnorthcentralma@visitnorthcentralmassachusetts Chocksett Inn 59 Laurelwood Road, Sterling chocksettinn.com978.422.3355 Suites26 • • • * • • Cap.(2)275 • Days Inn by Wyndham 482 North Main Street daysinn.com978.751.3757Leominster 86 • Nearby DoubleTree by Hilton 99 Erdman Way, Leominster leominster.doubletree.com978.534.9000 Suites22187Jr. • • ◊ • • Cap.(15)550 Great Wolf Lodge New England Waterpark 150 Great Wolf Drive greatwolf.com/newengland800.905.9653Fitchburg Suites40696 • • ♦ • • Cap.(7)500 The Groton Inn 128 Main Street, Groton thegrotoninn.com978.448.6600 60 5 Suites • • • • • Cap.(5)150 Maguire House 30 Cobb Road, Ashburnham maguirehouse.com978.827.5053 3 • Nearby SpringHill Suites by Marriott/Devens Common 27 Andrews Parkway, Devens accomodations.phpdevenscommoncenter.com/978.772.3030 120 • Nearby • • • Cap.(5)500 The Colonial Hotel 625 Betty Spring Road colonial-hotel.com978.630.2500Gardner 112 5 Suite • • ◊ • • Cap.(7)400 • #ofRooms FreeBreakfast RestaurantonSiteWeddingVenueSwimmingPoolGym/FitnessCenterBanquet/MeetingSpaces PetsAllowed Legend * – No pool, but has a babbling brook◊ – Indoor pool ♦ – Indoor waterpark ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ F F F F F F F F We hope you enjoy your stay! Use #VisitNorthCentralMa to show us what you did! Lodging NORTH CENTRAL MASSACHUSETTS Advertisers Amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, these advertisers have stepped up to bring you this issue of The Guide to North Central Massachusetts/Johnny Appleseed Country. Please support them as you tour the region this season. Bank Hometown 23 Leominster United Methodist Church 35 Bolton Orchards 37 Maguire House B & B 19 City of Fitchburg 7 Michelle Haggstrom KW Real-estate 17 City of Leominster 3 Museum of Russian Icons 37 City of Gardner 13 NCM Chamber of Commerce – Gift Local 33 Country Roads Inside Back Cover Narragansett Craft Fair 39 Creative Connections 41 Old Mill Restaurant 15 Fabric n Things 37 Plain View Alpaca 16 Fitchburg Art Museum Back Cover Red Apple Farm Inside Front Cover FunStuf Party Place 17 Sholan Farms 9 Game on Fitchburg 39 Sitka Creations 41 Gardner Ale House 11 Smith's Country Cheese 41 Great Wolf Lodge 15 Smoke Stack Roasters 35 Hardwick Winery 17 South Side Grille 33 Hobart AntiqueVillageMall 41 The Pines Campground 21 IC Federal Credit Union 19 Town of Winchendon 5 In the Meadow Farm 21 Town of Westminster 9 Jeffrey's Antiques 19 Wachusett Mountain Ski Area 47 Johnny Appleseed Visitor Center 19 CrackerWestminsterFestival 21 Lanni Orchards 21 Winchendon History & Cultural Center 39 Legends Sports Bar & Grille 35 Workers' Credit Union 17 Leominster Credit Union 37 Thank You!

A. Smith’s Country Cheese Farmstead cheeses, milk & butter; specialty food, gifts 20 Otter River Road Winchendon | 978-939-5738 B. The Kitchen Garden Bakery, gifts & ice cream 268 Baldwinville Road Templeton | 978-939-8558 C. Country Bumpkin’ Antiques Antiques & multi-dealercollectibles; 36 Baldwinville Road Templeton | 978-652-5429 D. KRO’s on the Common Restaurant serving breakfast & lunch; hosts private events 10 Baldwinville Road Templeton | 978-652-5780 E. Valley View Farm Meat shop & custom butcher 179 Barre TempletonRoad|978-939-1066 F. Valley Florist Florist, gift shop & greenhouses 1 Valley Drive (Rt. 101) Templeton | 978-632-2950 G. Plain View Farm Alpacas & alpaca fiber products 130 Gardner Road (Rt. 68) Hubbardston | 978-820-1199 H. A Thyme & A Place Gifts & refinished finds 52 Gardner Road (Rt. 68) Hubbardston | 978-928-1300 I. GourmetGiacomo’sFoods Gourmet foods & prepared meals 32 Main HubbardstonStreet| 508-826-8808 J. Dandelions Craft gallery & gift shop 34 Fruitland Road Barre | 978-257-8064 K. Hartman’s Herb Farm, Bed & Breakfast Herbs, plants arrangements& 1026 Old Dana Road Barre | 978-355-2015 L. SugarValcourtShack Maple syrup 67 New Salem Road Petersham | 508-479-6635 M. The Country Store General store & eatery 2 North Main Street (Rt. 32) Petersham | 978-724-0000 N. Petersham Art Center Fine art & crafts 8 North PetershamStreet|978-724-3415 O. Petersham Leathers Handcrafted leathers 202 Popple Camp Road Petersham | 978-724-3541 P. Red Apple Farm & Brew Barn Country store, eatery, cidery & brews 455 Highland Avenue Phillipston | 978-249-6763 Shops open year round. EXPLORE THE OF NORTH CENTRAL MASSACHUSETTS Cruise the beautiful back roads to visit our unique country shops that preserve old New England traditions. MARK YOUR CALENDARS! 17th Annual HOLIDAY TOUR NOVEMBER 11 TO DECEMBER 11, 2022 www.countryroadschristmas.com

ON VIEW: OCTOBER 1, 2022-JANUARY 15, 2023 G A B R I E L S O S A ( C U B A N A M E R I C A N , B 1 9 8 5 ) , L E Q U E D A U N M I N U T O , 2 0 1 7 P R E S E N T , G R A P H I T E O N P A P E R , D I M E N S I O N S V A R I A B L E I M A G E C O U R T E S Y O F A N Í B A L M A R T E L Gabriel Sosa fitchburgartmuseum.org 185 Elm Street Fitchburg, MA 01420 Phone 978.345.4207 No Vehicles in the Park

The Guide to North Central Massachusetts – Winter 2022

Articles inside

Places to Visit

Reviving a Tradition

Art on the Wall

Calendar of Events

Trails Less Traveled

East & West

Groton Hill: New Season, New Center

Tunes & Taps

They’ve Got Talent

The Chair Luge is Back

It’s Festival Season

Short Stops