Free events in Winchendon, MA

This free, public recovery support group meets at Greater Gardner CHC in the third floor conference room. It welcomes adults 18 and older who are working toward sobriety or living in recovery from alcohol or other substance use disorders. Conversations encourage personal growth through self-reflection and peer support, and CHC recovery coaches facilitate each session. The group is part of weekly offerings available across Fitchburg, Leominster, and Gardner. For questions or more information, call 978-878-8484.

People navigating diabetes can find a welcoming space to connect, exchange experiences, or simply listen in this monthly support group. The conversation is facilitated by Whitney Hightower, MS, RDN, LD, and focuses on shared understanding and practical support. Meetings take place in the Bond Wellness Center conference room at Monadnock Community Hospital. Attendance is free, no advance sign-up is needed, and drop-ins are welcome.

Now in its 31st year, this community-wide day of service brings together employees from local companies and residents to support agencies across North Central Massachusetts. Last year, more than 600 volunteers completed 62 projects at 48 local agencies. The day features a kickoff breakfast at Great Wolf Lodge, hands-on projects across the region, and a thank you barbecue at Gardner PACC. Agencies can register projects now. Volunteer registration will open. Sponsorship opportunities are available; contact Beth at beth@www.uwncm.org.

A warm, child-centered morning designed for infants, toddlers, and their caregivers features engaging stories, lively songs, and developmentally supportive play. It offers an easy way to meet other families while little ones explore at their own pace. This program is free, light refreshments are available for children and adults, and walk-ins are welcome with no registration needed.

A casual teen drop-in at The HUB features free bowling, ice cream, and space to relax with friends. The atmosphere is laid back with games to enjoy and no admission cost, creating an easy place to unwind. Sponsored by The United Way of North Central MA.

The cruise night returns with a new name honoring beloved member Bruno Starzynski. Expect a classic car showcase that depends on the weather, a visiting food truck, and a 50/50 raffle. Live bands perform in the Pavilion Hall regardless of conditions. Admission is free and the event is open to the public.

Beals Memorial Library in Winchendon presents its first Indie Author Book Fair, a free community celebration of self-published and independent voices across many genres, including mystery, science fiction, historical fiction, poetry and more. The fair spotlights Sisters in Crime New England with authors Nicole Asselin, Judith Carlough, and Mike Ciaraldi. Participating writers include Donald Ballou Smyth, Catherine Zebrowski, Barbara Friedman, Deborah Fukuda, Jorge Sanchez, Kris Bowser, Mary Anne Kalonas Slack, Michelle Elliott, Robin Roberts, Ann Goltz, Jack McClintock, Jacqueline Gamache, Michael Glenzel, Melanie Meadors, Ruth Madison, Douglas Dumont, Kimberly Hallinan, Sally Cragin, Jean Varda, Victoria R. Delmar, Shawn McClintock, John Daly, Via Luino, and Marie LeClaire. Publishing professionals will be on hand as well, including Raymond Rugg of Tree-Lion Press and Jaqueline Gamache of Lore & Rime, along with editor Tracy Cutter of Language Lover Editing Services. Attendees can enjoy author talks, roundtables on how to get started with publishing, how to avoid scams, and how to work with third party contractors such as artists and editors. Workshops explore e-pubs and the journey from book to audiobook. Families will find children’s activities, and food will be available from Lickity Splitz Food Truck and Pepe’s Eatery. The fair is presented in partnership with the Friends of the Beals Library, By Light Unseen Media, and the Winchendon Cultural Council.

This annual festival brings a wide variety of food trucks serving cuisines from multiple countries, paired with shopping from artists and crafters. Admission is free and parking is available nearby. Alcoholic beverages will be offered by Stein & Vine. For vendor information, registration fees, and sign-up details, email wootrucks@gmail.com.

Celebrate the close of the season at the Community Canvas End of Summer Festival. Explore hands-on maker tables, enjoy live music from Shaely O'Dou, sample bites from food trucks, and cap it off with a movie. Admission is free, with support from Mass Cultural Council, Athol Credit Union, Athol Trading Post, POLUS CENTER, Athol Area YMCA, and Lickity Splitz.

A weekly recovery support group meets at Fitchburg CHC on the second floor in Conference Room 2. It is free and open to the public, welcoming adults 18 and older who are working toward sobriety or living in recovery from alcohol and other substance use disorders. CHC recovery coaches facilitate the conversation, with a focus on self-exploration and peer support to encourage personal growth. Weekly groups are also available at Leominster CHC, Greater Gardner CHC, and ACTION CHC in Fitchburg. For questions or to learn more, call 978-878-8484.