Events in Brattleboro, VT

Drop in and Draw offers a relaxed and fun, family friendly setting where creative expression helps cultivate connections and community. There is no cost to attend, and donations are welcome.

Comic Boom! hosts a twice-weekly Street Fighter III: 3rd Strike night for newcomers and regular players alike. Held on Thursdays and Saturdays, it features multiple setups for matches. There is no entry fee. Attendees may bring their own controller or use one available on site.

Connect with the farm’s resident animals while building animal drawing skills in a collaborative workshop from Retreat Farm and the River Gallery School of Art. Set inside the Calf Barn with live models, this two hour session is led by River Gallery School teaching artist Kate Milliken. Participants can work in pencil and charcoal, receive guidance and instruction if desired, or draw independently at their own pace. The class welcomes beginners and experienced artists alike. Registration is $25 for adults and $15 for children per class, and enrolling in all three sessions includes a $15 discount. All are welcome, with children under 14 required to attend with an adult. Space is limited and advance registration is strongly encouraged.

Nova Arts teams up with Keene Mutual Aid and Loud Sun Studio for a Battle of the Bands featuring Down in the Ground, Mimi Fang, Afterthought, Salivate, Names in Order, Deadweight, The Latest Trend, and Blowflies. A panel of judges will be announced closer to the event. Ticket revenue helps fund the prize and also supports Mutual Aid. Seating is first come, first served. With support from Savings Bank of Walpole, the show includes an Access For All option that lets you name your price, and if you need more than one ticket with this option, each purchase must be completed in a separate transaction.

This comedy special from LAVA’s Comedy Project features Kendall Farrell, a New York City standup originally from Brattleboro who won Vermont’s Funniest Comedian contest and was named a Comic to Watch at the New York Comedy Festival. Fellow Vermonter Jessie Baade appears on the lineup, with past performances alongside Maria Bramford and Atsuko Okatsuka. Andrea CK hosts at LAVA Center for the Arts and Humanities. Seating is limited. Admission follows a sliding scale of $10 to $20, with Card to Culture tickets available for $1, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

The Danielle Nicole Band brings acclaimed blues and soul to the Shea, led by singer, bassist, and songwriter Danielle Nicole from Kansas City. Growing up in a musical family, she first rose to prominence with her brothers in the heavy-blues group Trampled Under Foot, which built a strong Midwest following and then reached audiences around the world for more than a decade. Critics have highlighted her expressive vocals, inventive bass work, and relentless drive, with praise from outlets such as Guitar World, Blues Music Magazine, and The Kansas City Star. Her solo releases showcase that momentum: Wolf Den climbed to number two on the Billboard Blues chart and surpassed 7.5 million Spotify streams, Cry No More earned a Grammy nomination in contemporary blues and debuted at number one on the Billboard Blues chart with over 10 million streams, and The Love You Bleed has already tallied more than 1.2 million streams on Forty Below Records. An eight-time Blues Music Award recipient, including honors for Bass Player and Female Contemporary Artist of the Year, Danielle leads a band steeped in gritty grooves and soulful intensity.

Riftbound, the official trading card game for League of Legends, is featured at Comic Boom! Players bring a Riftbound deck and take part in games with prizes that include booster packs, promo packs, exclusive Nexus Night promo cards, and store credit. Entry is $10. It appeals to League of Legends fans and card game enthusiasts alike.

Enjoy an outdoor screening at Beacon Field as The Super Mario Galaxy Movie takes center stage. Bring a picnic and a blanket, gather friends and family, and settle in for the show. Arrive early to claim a good viewing spot. The story follows Mario and Luigi on a spacefaring mission to stop Bowser Jr. from restoring his shrunken father, with Princess Peach, Rosalina, and other friends lending a hand as they travel across cosmic realms to protect the galaxy. Rated PG. Supported by Franklin First Federal Credit Union as the Blockbuster Sponsor.

At NOVA ARTS, a double bill brings together Dr. Julian’s Yes Yes and Jorrit Dijkstra’s BLINK for an evening of adventurous jazz shaped by global traditions. Dr. Julian’s Yes Yes presents original music that bridges tradition and fresh ideas, pairing sophistication with funk and embedding jazz with rhythms and instruments associated with the Caribbean, Eastern Europe, and Arabic music. The sound is melodic and driving, thoughtful yet welcoming. Percussionist and composer Julian Gerstin has performed across jazz, African, and Latin scenes with artists including Sheila Jordan, Charles Neville, Orlando Julius, Baba Ken Okulolo, and Zulu Spear, and his work spans Eastern European and Arabic styles as well as punk, funk, choral settings, and theater composition. He also leads the Brazilian group Sambaganza and performs Puerto Rican bomba with Bomba de Aquí, and the time he spent in Martinique studying and performing traditional music informs much of his writing. Building on his earlier JG Sextet and its album Songbirds of the Deep Sea on Truth Revolution Records, Yes Yes treats his compositions as springboards for collective risk-taking with a flexible roster. Current collaborators include saxophonist Jason Robinson, bass clarinetist Paul Austerlitz, trumpeter Don Anderson, pianist Andrew Wilcox, bassist Wes Brown, and drummer Ben James, each bringing deep experience from contemporary jazz and global music projects. BLINK, led by Dutch American saxophonist Jorrit Dijkstra and formed with Boston improvisers as an extension of The Porch Trio, explores microtonal relationships between instruments to create a mesmerizing, dreamlike blend of interlocking melodies and layered rhythms. Dijkstra’s pieces launch open improvisations influenced by group behavior patterns such as swarming, with references to African highlife and kalimba music, Indonesian gamelan, and delta blues guitar. The group’s debut appeared on Driff Records, and the project has also featured Dutch vocal innovator Jaap Blonk as BLINK + Blonk, performing his compositions. Seating is first come, first served. Thanks to support from Savings Bank of Walpole, an Access For All option offers name-your-price admission. This option can only be purchased one at a time, and additional tickets require separate transactions.

Marigold Brattleboro presents an evening of live music with Brain Medicine and Dylan Patrick Ward. Admission is free, and the bar and kitchen will be available. Brain Medicine delivers a bluegrass meets punk spark through an Americana-rooted string sound. Founded in 2017 by Clinton Hoffman, a former drummer now on tenor guitar, the band has won over crowds regionally and nationally with original songs played at full tilt. Their drive comes from Will Frohlich on rockabilly-tinged mandolin, Eric Matson’s nimble, melodic banjo, and the slap of Kevin Cottone’s upright bass, while Erika Babus adds a wry soprano that spotlights the quick-witted lyrics. Dylan Patrick Ward, a folk-leaning songwriter from southern Vermont, blends country folk storytelling with an offbeat indie rock sensibility. His songs follow misfits and edge-dwellers with humor and bite, drawing comparisons to John Prine, Randy Newman, and the Mountain Goats.

In the downtown area of Turners Falls, Massachusetts, the Great Falls Farmers Market accepts SNAP and HIP benefits.

Explore the Keene Farmer's Market and discover a booth featuring freshly baked treats, jams, preserves and applesauce, pickled relishes and vegetables, goat milk soap, and handcrafted crochet pieces. Enjoy live music as you check out a number of vendor booths throughout the market.

The Greenfield Farmers' Market returns for opening day with a bustling mix of popular vendors and fresh, locally made foods. Meet the farmers and producers behind the goods, with much of the selection coming from within about 20 miles. Shop to live music, explore kid friendly activities, and look for special incentives for shoppers. It offers a simple way to support area agriculture while picking up your favorites.

Brattleboro Common in Brattleboro, Vermont hosts a car show and cruise-in. Organizers express excitement for the upcoming show.

An in depth, fast paced training series focused on home repair and renovation, designed to prepare women homeowners to take on major projects independently or with minimal help. Because the coursework moves quickly, participants must have previously completed Intro to Carpentry or Woodworking for Women. Enrollment is limited to 10 for a small, hands on learning experience. The program spans six months and meets on the final weekend of each month. The fee includes 12 sessions plus all necessary materials and consumables.

This celebration of cultural diversity features delicious food, distinctive crafts, and a full day of fun and connection.

Enjoy late-night golf at the range with 20% off all purchases, and keep swinging until the sun goes down.

TopHouse brings a genre-blurring set to Stone Church, pairing pulse-quickening, foot-stomping tunes with heart-tugging ballads. Their sound blends the drive of a rock band with the spirit of traditional bluegrass, creating a style that resists easy labels. Listeners are encouraged to explore the music and decide for themselves what to call it.

Now in its 48th edition, the Clarence DeMar Marathon is paired with the 12th annual DeMar Half Marathon, offering runners a choice between full and half distances. Online registration will open.

Comic Boom hosts easygoing Commander play in a friendly, social setting. Admission is free.

Casual pickup soccer happens on Sundays in a relaxed, recurring format. It is open to players from high school age and up, and no experience is required. Bring water and a soccer ball, and wear shinguards if you choose.

Sean Hayes blends folk, soul, country, roots, rock and reggae, slipping between genres and lingering at the edges. He moves from intimate croon to full-throated wail, crafting songs that invite dancing, quiet sips, daydreams and deep feeling. Born in New York, raised in North Carolina, and shaped by more than three decades making music in the Bay Area, his songwriting and unmistakable voice carry traces of each place he has called home. Over the years he has shared music with a wide circle of artists, from duets with Aimiee Mann and Frazey Ford to tours with Charley Crockett, Jolie Holland, The Wood Brothers, Ani DeFranco and The Cold War Kids. His tracks have been remixed by house DJ Mark Farina and have appeared on NPR, NBC and HBO. However you frame it, it is simply a night of good music. Shawn Magee offers a sea-steeped, love-forward vision, with songs that fall like rain, crest like waves, and linger even as the sun calls everything back to ether.

Ease into the day with coffee, conversation, and connections at The Works Cafe in Brattleboro, as the Brewing Better Business meetup brings BBB and members of the local business community together for relaxed networking. Meet new people, exchange ideas, and learn about the businesses and professionals in Vermont in a welcoming setting. Whether you run a company, are building one, work in a related field, or simply want to grow your network, this casual gathering offers time to chat, share insights, and make new contacts. Pick up a coffee, say hello, and kick off the day with conversations that can spark lasting connections.

Stay on top of your health with a free blood pressure clinic held on the first Thursday of each month at The Keene Senior Center. A representative from American House Keene will provide on-site readings so participants can track their numbers over time. For questions, contact keeneassistant@americanhouse.com.

Drew Paton performs at the Voo with a nostalgic mix of favorites and love songs from the 1930s through the 1980s. The set offers an easygoing soundtrack for dining and unwinding, with familiar melodies spanning five decades.

At The Colonial Theatre, The More Life Tour brings Country Music Hall of Fame member Randy Travis together with vocalist James Dupré, his co-star from The Price. His longtime road family returns for the first time since shortly before his 2013 stroke, including band members Steve Hinson, David Johnson, Lance Dary, Bill Cook, Joe Van Dyke and Herb Shucher, along with tour manager Jeff Davis, all supporting the artist they affectionately call Hoss. The program features Dupré and the band performing all 16 of Travis’s chart-topping hits such as “On The Other Hand,” “Forever and Ever, Amen,” and “Three Wooden Crosses.” Travis will make a special appearance, interact with the audience and take part in the show, although he will not be singing. VIP passes will be offered at the show and include a meet and greet with Randy Travis. Continuing to create despite the effects of his stroke, the Grand Ole Opry veteran also introduced two technology-assisted tracks over the past two years, “Where That Came From” and “Horses in Heaven.”

Sam Grisman Project makes its debut at the Shea, led by bassist and bandleader Sam Grisman. This improvisational acoustic ensemble draws from the legacy shaped by Jerry Garcia and David Grisman, bringing an energetic and exploratory approach to live performance. Raised in Mill Valley, California, Sam grew up in a household where landmark acoustic sessions were recorded. His father, the mandolinist, composer, and producer David Grisman, welcomed friends into the home studio for rehearsals and recording. Encounters with artists like Doc Watson, Jerry Garcia, John Hartford, Mike Seeger, and Tony Rice left a lasting influence and set him on a path of making music with trusted collaborators. The show is designed to foster connection, creating a setting where the musicians and the audience share their admiration for timeless music and the artists who continue to inspire it.

Build confidence getting your wheels off the ground at a half-day clinic centered on jumps and drops. PMBIA-certified instructor Michael Owens, who coaches at Thunder Mountain Bike Park and other New England mountain resorts, leads practical instruction designed for intermediate to advanced riders. Training includes proper body position and bike control, safe techniques for takeoffs and landings, progressions that help you ride features smoothly and safely, and guidance on line choice and trail awareness. Whether you are just starting to leave the ground or refining technique, the focus is on gaining control and consistency over trail features. The cost is $150 and includes a full-day lift ticket. Spots are limited.

Spend time with the gentle draft horses who live at Draft Gratitude during a relaxed, family-friendly Visiting Day. Stroll the farm, meet senior horses, ask questions, and learn what life can look like after years of work. The pace is unhurried with no set schedule, creating space to connect, learn, and simply enjoy being around these remarkable animals. Expect time in the barn and near the paddocks, casual Q&A with the team about each horse’s care and background, and a simple activity or seasonal touch. BarnFinds, the small onsite shop, offers horse-themed items, and there is an opportunity to contribute spare change to support the horses. Open to all ages. Visitors are encouraged to bring curiosity and kindness, and to dress for the weather. Those wishing to bring feed can choose Blue Seal Active Senior grain in the red bag and Blue Seal Hay Stretcher, along with common horse treats used for training. Every visit helps provide feed, medical care, and comfort for horses who have already given so much.

Take a leisurely walking tour through downtown Keene, NH that reveals the stories behind 16 large-scale Walldogs murals. Guides from the Historical Society of Cheshire County share true accounts that link local moments to broader state and national history as the group visits each artwork. The route is mostly flat and set at an easy pace, with a total experience of about two hours. The tour sets off from Railroad Square. Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended for this visually rich exploration. These murals were created in June 2019 when more than 200 Walldogs artists volunteered over three days to paint historically themed scenes across the city. Sponsored by Fenton Family Dealerships and the Putnam Foundation.

This class takes place in a new studio in Greenfield, Massachusetts while keeping the familiar format. Guided by a range of 5Rhythms maps, it offers instruction and movement explorations that invite participants into the practice. To support those with chemical or scent sensitivities, please arrive fragrance free, avoiding scented detergents on clothing as well as scented hair or body products and essential oils as much as possible. 5Rhythms is a straightforward movement practice for every body, regardless of shape, size, age, experience, or limitations. Founded by Gabrielle Roth, it does not use set steps. The depth of the work comes from each dancer’s own embodied awareness. A session moves through flowing, staccato, chaos, lyrical, and stillness, known together as a Wave, with attention on the unique medicine of each rhythm rather than on mastery. Expect time to arrive and move on your own, along with gentle guidance through music and spoken invitations. You may be prompted to deepen your solo dance, explore partnership for brief or extended moments, or engage as part of a larger group. Each class responds to the people in the room, the rhythms open countless movement landscapes, and no two sessions are the same. Participants are asked to help create a safe and courageous environment. Because this is a nonverbal practice, make eye contact before initiating touch and honor personal boundaries. Some dancers may be in a deep process or moving with eyes closed, so touch can be disruptive. After making eye contact, if you prefer not to be touched, communicate a clear no with words or a simple gesture such as a respectful bow, crossing your arms, or stepping away. All are welcome across race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, body shape and size, language, and age. The space is intended to be accessible to all bodies. With respect, this gathering acknowledges the homelands of the Nipmuc, Pocumtuc, and Nonotuc peoples. The Native settlement at what is now Northampton was called Norwottuck or Nonotuck, meaning the midst of the river.

Now in its fourth year, this farmers market features food and drinks, games, local vendors, and more. Returning attendees and first-time visitors are warmly welcomed.

The Monadnock Youth Coalition presents its 6th Annual Youth Fest at the Keene Family YMCA. This free, family-focused gathering spotlights local organizations and resources that support youth and their families. Details will continue to be updated as the event approaches, and informational flyers and stickers can be found throughout the community.

CONCORA, Connecticut Choral Artists, presents a program that spans from the Baroque era to contemporary works. This performance offers the New Hampshire premiere of Geoffrey Hudson's "A Passion for the Planet", a climate change oratorio, with a professional orchestra, the KSC Concert Choir, and community singers. Led by Artistic Director Chris Shepard, the choir showcases its versatility and the way it forms ensembles from its roster of singers. The concert takes place in Alumni Recital Hall. Admission is $15 for the general public, $10 for senior citizens, and free for students.

Local 2548 hosts its first Golf Scramble Tournament at the Country Club of Greenfield, bringing the community together to give back and support one of their own. Proceeds are split between two causes, with half benefiting the Whitney family as they face a battle with brain cancer and half supporting a Health and Wellness Fund that provides ongoing cancer screenings for firefighters to promote early detection and prevention. There are multiple ways to participate. Register a team, sponsor or advertise a business, or donate a raffle item or basket if attending is not possible. Teams from all over are encouraged to rally behind these efforts and help spread the word.

Spend an evening surrounded by flowers as farmer florist Hanna Jenkins of Tapalou Guilds leads a hands-on workshop in floral design. Participants select stems from a Bloom Buffet and build a one-of-a-kind arrangement to take home, working at stations to fill jars with seasonal favorites such as decadent dahlias, stock, snapdragons, heirloom mums, and other autumn blooms. Hanna shares favorite design techniques and practical tips throughout the session. The workshop takes place in the North Barn at Retreat Farm and runs approximately 90 minutes. Drinks are available from the Thirsty Goat Bar. Tapalou Guilds is a first-generation family farm founded in 2017 by Hanna Jenkins and Andy Loughney on ten diverse acres in Guilford. The farm grows specialty cut flowers and offers floral design for weddings, events, and a CSA, provides youth programming including a summer day camp, and welcomes guests with unique farm-stay experiences, alongside a range of perennial and annual food crops. Hanna and Andy live on the farm with their son Oliver, a flock of birds, and their dog, Banjo.

Deadgrass offers a string band, jamgrass journey through Jerry Garcia’s music, founded by Matt Turk and C Lanzbom with Dave Richards on bass, Kris Bauman on banjo, and Kensuke Shoji on fiddle. Their set honors Garcia’s legacy across multiple eras, drawing from Old and in the Way, the Jerry Garcia Band, his early jug band roots, and the Grateful Dead, performed on the acoustic instruments that shaped his earliest inspirations. A veteran multi-instrumentalist and recording artist, Matt Turk has shared stages with Pete Seeger, opened for Judy Collins, The Doobie Brothers, Fiona Apple, and Grateful Dead’s Mickey Hart, and appeared at Clearwater Festival, Gathering of the Vibes, Atlanta’s Music Midtown, Jazz at Lincoln Center, The Capitol Theatre, and The Beacon Theatre. His recording work includes releases for Warner Bros Records with Gaby Moreno and Matter Music. Grammy winner C Lanzbom is a touring and studio guitarist with a long list of credits as producer, performer, writer, and engineer, including work with Pete Seeger, Bruce Springsteen, Crystal Bowersox, Shlomo Carlebach, and Soulfarm. He operates Sherwood Ridge, a state-of-the-art studio just north of New York City, and his songs have appeared in television and film. His deep connection to Garcia’s catalog fuels this project. Bassist Dave Richards performs in Hamilton on Broadway and has recorded or performed with the Indigo Girls, Rosanne Cash, Buster Poindexter, Madeleine Peyroux, Jewel, and Richie Havens. His touring has taken him across Europe, Canada, and the United States, with appearances at Ottawa Jazz, Toronto Blues Festival, the Hollywood Bowl, and Austin City Limits. At 17 he was holding a jazz residency five nights a week in Orlando with Billy Peebles, the drummer heard on many classic Atlantic recordings by Ray Charles. Banjoist Kris Bauman has worked professionally since age sixteen and was featured with bassist Alexis Cuadrado on NPR’s Studio 360. His range spans country and bluegrass with The Dang-it Bobbys, jazz as both leader and sideman with artists such as Bobby Short, Seamus Blake, Loren Schoenberg, Jason Lindner, Kurt Rosenwinkel, and Luca Benedetti, rock and pop projects with engineer Mike Barnard and Ilhan Ersahin, and R&B and soul with Bilal. Jazz violinist Kensuke Shoji hails from Gifu, Japan, where he first played in his father’s bluegrass band as a teenager. He moved to the United States to study with Matt Glaser, chair of the Berklee String Department, and renowned violinist Christian Howes. Since relocating to New York City in 2013, he has performed with Alex Hargreaves, Barry Harris, Jacob Jolliff, Maria Muldaur, and others.

Witch, Please! at Franklin County Fairgrounds brings a weekend packed with canine fun, disc action, and plenty of laughs. Expect a broad mix of games, along with a scavenger hunt and fire pits for relaxing between activities.

Step into a supportive weekend devoted to helping hesitant and beginning singers find their voice. Through guided sessions that build confidence, encourage expression, and invite playful exploration, participants can move from anxiety to enjoyment and reconnect with the singer within. Designed for people who consider themselves non-singers as well as true beginners, this small-group retreat in Keene, New Hampshire keeps the experience personal with space for only 12 participants. Tuition is $675 per person at the early-bird rate and covers all workshop sessions, while lodging and meals are not included.

A recurring two hour workshop explores how to create and perform while wearing a respirator, led by Equity actor and teaching artist Molly Brennan. Each session invites performers of many disciplines, including playwrights, singers, poets, drag artists, clowns, and actors, to devise original pieces, share works in progress, and strengthen vocal and physical techniques specific to masked performance. Beginners are encouraged to participate, and all are welcome. The workshops are mask required, centering artists who use respirators and building space for those prioritizing protection from airborne illness. Brennan brings three decades of stage experience in Chicago and ongoing work in Massachusetts as a teacher, playwright, director, and performer who works in an N95. Her play After the Whales Spoke appeared in the LAVA Center’s On the Boards New Play Festival with a cast of Disabled actors and actors who wear respirators, presented to a fully masked audience in person with a livestream for remote viewers. Sessions cover devising new work, clown, improvisation, and how to host. A streaming option is available, and the venue offers wheelchair access.

Midnight Floyd offers a Pink Floyd experience performed by a five-piece band. Presented by Floodwater Brewing, the lineup includes Tom on lead guitar and vocals, Jim on guitar and vocals, Dan on bass and vocals, Morgan on keyboards, and Guy on drums, coming together to celebrate the sound of Pink Floyd.

Angelo De Augustine shares the world of Angel in Plainclothes, his fifth album shaped by a multi-year path of healing and renewal after an undiagnosed illness required him to relearn basic abilities. Intimate melodies and vivid lyrics explore fragility, second chances, and rediscovery, moving from the elegiac Empty Shell to the hopeful Spirit of the Unknown and the psychedelic country turn of Mirror Mirror. He wrote, recorded, arranged, produced, and mixed the record at his Southern California studio, A Secret Place, and for the first time in years invited collaborators, including string arranger Oliver Hill, harpist Leng Bian, and vocalist and percussionist Wendy Fraser, with Thomas Bartlett and Jonathan Wilson contributing to The Cure. The music carries a steady current of encouragement, offering songs that aim to reassure and remind listeners that recovery and even small miracles are possible.

This beginner-friendly woodcarving class focuses on crafting a hanging piece that depicts a witch flying across an 8 inch harvest moon. Students work from basswood and plywood blanks, then personalize every element, from broom and cloak to hat, facial expression, and overall attitude. Participants learn basic carving techniques while shaping a flat silhouette and refining details. The project concludes with a completed Halloween decoration ready to hang at home. All tools and materials are provided, and participants may bring their own carving tools if they have them.

A Little Unwell brings a circus-style variety showcase created with the Brattleboro Retreat to spotlight mental health and challenge stigma. Marking World Mental Health Day, performers from a range of disciplines share original pieces drawn from their own journeys, illustrating how art can support healing and understanding. Through physical artistry, spoken narrative, and openhearted expression, the program invites empathy, builds connection, and affirms that no one faces these struggles alone. Developed collaboratively by the New England Center for Circus Arts and the NYC-based Fox Meadow Films, the production features artists from New York City and Brattleboro working together in a shared creative project.

The Shea Theater Arts Center presents a tribute to Rush featuring A Farewell 2 Kings, performing the entire Moving Pictures album live along with other fan favorites and deep cuts. A Farewell To Kings is a New Jersey tribute to the Canadian trio, with four musicians who use high caliber gear and close attention to detail to recreate music from across the eras of Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart, from expansive epics to hits and rarities. All ages are welcome. Advance tickets are $22 plus fees. The venue and the first-floor gender-neutral restroom are wheelchair accessible, and alcohol will be available on site.

Writers Read is a monthly series that welcomes audiences to hear local voices in a close, welcoming setting. Each second Wednesday, three writers share selections from their work, followed by a conversation guided by Lindy Whiton that often sparks new insight and sends attendees home eager to write. This installment features Amy Gordon, Cheryl Dukes, and JuPong Lin. Gordon’s poetry has appeared in The Amsterdam Review, Ekphrastic Review, The Massachusetts Review, and other journals, and her chapbook Leaf Town won the Slate Roof Press Chapbook Prize. She lives in Gill and directs an after-school theater program. Dukes brings a curious, persistent, and playful voice that stares down mortality while choosing vibrancy, favors active language, laughs through the shushing, journeys to the far side of OtherWise, and treats love as something you do, with a jubilant woop woop. Lin is an independent artist, practice-led researcher, writer, and cultural worker whose interspecies and socially engaged projects honor beloved places and seed stories that move beyond a single worldview. A former Goddard College MFA faculty member for nearly two decades until the school’s closure in 2024, she holds a PhD in Environmental Studies from Antioch University New England and works as a narrative coach for public health organizations in Massachusetts. Her first play, Phoenix in the HolyLand, supports global peace efforts that confront ecocide and genocide, and her writing appears in Writing the Land anthologies as well as the collections Ecological and Social Healing: Multicultural Women’s Voices and Contemplative Practices and Acts of Resistance in Higher Education: Narratives Toward Wholeness. A suggested donation of 1 to 5 dollars helps support the series. This recurring program is updated each month.

The Falltown String Band, regarded as local legends, performs live at the Voo on the second Wednesday of each month. This recurring midweek set brings live music from a beloved local group.

Settle into the North Barn for a peaceful botanical watercolor workshop led by Kate Milliken. Using seasonal flowers, grasses, leaves, fruits, and vegetables as subjects, participants will take time to observe natural forms closely and translate what they see into color and texture on the page. Instruction focuses on simple, approachable techniques and a relaxed pace that invites careful looking. All experience levels are welcome, and a love of nature and curiosity are the only essentials. Registration is $25 per adult or $15 per child for each class, with a $15 discount available when enrolling in all three sessions. All are welcome, though children under 14 must attend with an adult. Space is limited, so advance registration is strongly encouraged.

A celebratory choral gathering brings together selected high school choirs from across New England with KSC's Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, and Vocal Consort. The event offers a full day focused on shared voices and collaboration. Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend.

New York songwriter Jilian Medford, known as IAN SWEET, brings a continually reimagined take on indie rock and pop. Her catalog moves from the spark of Shapeshifter through the bite of Crush Crusher and the raw emotion of Show Me How You Disappear to the bright, hook-filled SUCKER, marking years of fearless growth. Her songs have amassed millions of streams and attracted praise from outlets including The FADER, KEXP, The New York Times, NPR Music, Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, and Stereogum. With a new era taking shape, expect a set that spans the range of her discography. Sharing the bill, Nashville-based artist Meg Elsier crafts guitar-forward indie rock that blends airy vocals and lush melody with gritty textures and an ethereal shoegaze undercurrent. After introducing herself with the single ifshitfuq and follow ups like iznotreal, baby, forlyleinsanfrancisco, and oldnews, she has built toward her debut album, spittake, a collection that fuses elements of grunge, contemporary pop, folk, and indie rock while exploring themes of love, loss, nostalgia, and mental health with sharp, self-aware lyricism. Together, these performances deliver a vivid snapshot of two distinctive voices shaping contemporary indie music.

At the Franklin County Fairgrounds in Greenfield, MA, this fall celebration blends a festive atmosphere with a classic car showcase, all benefiting LifePath Meals on Wheels. Look for a variety of food trucks and vendor booths, a barbecue competition with tastings, beer and wine, live music, and family friendly fun. Kids can enjoy games and activities, shoppers can browse a large craft market, and everyone can explore the Spooky Round House experience suitable for all ages. Admission is free, with a suggested $5 parking donation. Food, craft, and community vendors may apply.

NOVA ARTS welcomes a dynamic pairing of Sol y Canto and Doozy Jane. Sol y Canto is an acclaimed Pan-Latin ensemble led by singer and percussionist Rosi Amador and guitarist, singer, and composer Brian Amador. Their performances highlight Rosi’s clear, expressive vocals, Brian’s rich Spanish guitar work, and songwriting that blends poetry with playful twists. They share original pieces alongside distinctive versions of beloved Latin songs, shaping a sound that feels larger than a duo through intricate guitar lines, cajón and bongos, and spirited vocal improvisation. Their concerts reach listeners whether or not they speak Spanish, and they have appeared at major cultural venues and festivals since the mid-1990s. Their artistry has drawn praise from the Boston Globe and from critic Norman Weinstein in the Christian Science Monitor and the Boston Phoenix. At times they perform with guest virtuosos from Latin America, the United States, and Spain. Doozy Jane brings four voices and a vibrant string band sensibility rooted in American harmony traditions, lively swing, and fiddle-driven grooves. Their arrangements favor close treble harmonies and spotlight songs by women and queer artists. Alongside their own writing, they choose lesser-known but finely crafted covers colored by swing and gospel influences and a taste for the unexpected. The group’s name nods to arranger Anna Patton’s grandmother Jane, who loved the challenging inner lines of barbershop singing, a spirit reflected in the quartet’s approach. Their sound is shaped by bass guitar, tenor guitar, twin fiddles, and clarinet. The lineup features vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Anna Patton, singer and fiddler Sarah Hadley Yakir, Julia Read on voice, fiddle, and guitar, and Haley Anderson on bass and vocals. This event is open to all ages. Seating is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. With support from Savings Bank of Walpole, an Access For All option allows a name-your-price ticket. To purchase more than one of that option, each ticket must be processed as a separate transaction.

Jamelot brings 70s and 80s dance-ready tunes to the American Legion, setting the scene for a lively, feel-good time. There is a cover charge at the door that supports community organizations such as the American Legion and helps keep local music thriving. The kitchen will be open with food available.

Enjoy a program of solo vocal artistry as the Keene State College Music Department voice faculty perform with pianist Vladimir Odinokikh. The recital features Dr. Evangelia Leontis and Dr. Brittney Redler, both sopranos, and baritone Prof. Nicholas Tocci, with guest clarinetist Dr. Alex Kollias. Presented in the Alumni Recital Hall at the Redfern Arts Center at Keene State College. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $10 for senior citizens, and free for students.

Dustbowl Revival returns to the Shea stage, three years after making their debut there in the summer of 2023. The performance coincides with peak foliage season in Western Massachusetts, adding a distinctly autumn backdrop.

BriezyJane & the Hurricane returns to Floodwater Brewing Co. with a lively set that blends folk, blues, swing, traditional tunes, country, and more. Brie Green, also known as Briezyjane and a founding member of the Massachusetts-based sibling group The Green Sisters, leads the show with vivid originals alongside carefully chosen covers that invite toe tapping. She is joined by Rob Griffin, Chris Trevethan, and John Cloutier, veteran multi-instrumentalists active in several groups across the region. Expect spirited energy and a focus on meaningful music that fills the room with joy. For those curious about her recordings, Brie Green’s album On the Path You Walk features 14 tracks that range from sassy to sad, sappy to soulful.

This celebration of Vermont’s state vegetable features artisans with handmade goods, a Gilfeather cafe, the renowned Gilfeather Turnip soup, a gift shop filled with turnip themed items, and an abundance of Gilfeather turnips available to buy.

Nik Parr & The Selfless Lovers deliver high-energy, piano-driven roots rock from Austin, Texas, blending New Orleans late-night spirit with Southern soul and a Texas Gulf Coast groove. The performance highlights Nik Parr’s rare knack for playing saxophone and piano at the same time, channeling raw passion reminiscent of Bruce Springsteen and the showmanship of Jerry Lee Lewis. Known for dynamic live shows and a nationwide touring schedule of more than 150 performances each year, the band has shared the stage with Marc Broussard, Rebirth Brass Band, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Black Joe Lewis, The Soul Rebels, Dumpstaphunk, The Heavy Heavy, Shinyribs, The Damn Quails, Eddie 9 Volt, and Two Tons of Steel. A new EP titled American Lover Boy, produced by Low Cut Connie, is forthcoming.

Under the direction of Seelan Manickam, the KSC Orchestra collaborates with the Concert Choir, led by Dr. Sandra Howard, to perform René Clausen’s Memorial, a 30-minute work honoring 25 years since the 9/11 tragedy. The program takes place in the Main Theatre at the Redfern Arts Center at Keene State College and is supported in part by the Vincent Russell Visiting Scholar Fund. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $10 for senior citizens and youth, and free for students.

The Barr Brothers share a wide-open sound shaped by Montreal roots, guided by Andrew Barr’s lively, polyrhythmic drumming and the songs and guitar work of his brother Brad. Bass, pedal steel, keyboards, and horns drift in and out to color the arrangements. The band moves fluidly from quiet Arcadian-tinged ballads to North African flavored improvisations to full-on rock and roll release. Their carefully crafted yet playful approach has a way of drawing listeners in. SOAK brings a story that began in Derry as a teenager with the breakout song Sea Creatures, followed by steady growth while finishing school. Bridie later signed with Rough Trade and released the debut album Before We Got How To Dream in 2015. Recognition arrived quickly, including a Mercury Prize nomination among the youngest ever, wins at the Choice Music Prize for Album of the Year and the Northern Irish Music Prize, a Q Award shortlist for Best New Act, and a European Border Breakers Award. With support from the BBC Sound Poll and Jools Holland, along with airplay on Radio 1 and 6Music, the project has traveled widely while staying connected to its Northern Irish roots.

Keene State College’s Concert Band, led by Dr. John T. Hart, Jr., performs in the Redfern Arts Center’s Main Theatre. Approaching its 50th year, this campus community ensemble brings together musicians ages 18 to 88 from many backgrounds, balancing entertainment with education and highlighting newly created works, especially by artists from underrepresented communities. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $10 for senior citizens and youth, and free for students.

The Wyld Nightz Band, a classic rock outfit that began in Brattleboro more than fifteen years ago, brings a dance-ready show to the North Barn at Retreat Farm on Route 30. Founders Michael McKinney on guitar and trumpet and Jeff Brewer on guitar and banjo perform with a skilled lineup where everyone sings, featuring Pete Nichols on drums, Matt Martyn on bass and trombone, Anthony Speranza on keyboards with music direction, and Anthony Speranza Jr. on saxophone, acoustic guitar and penny whistle. The set draws from a range of styles suited for the dance floor, built on years of performances at weddings, parties and community celebrations. Beverages will be available from the Thirsty Goat Bar.

The Keene State College Jazz Combos take the stage at the Redfern Arts Center at Keene State College in the Alumni Recital Hall, presenting small ensemble improvisation rooted in the jazz tradition. Musicians from a range of academic majors and musical backgrounds come together to blend classic repertoire with influences from popular, classical, and original music. It offers a welcoming way to support local live music and the students who meet on Fridays to rehearse, learn, and play. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $10 for senior citizens and youth, and free for students.

Presented by the Keene State College Music Department, this Voice Studio Recital brings together singers from every voice studio for a program of vocal performances. It will be held at the Redfern Arts Center at Keene State College, in the Alumni Recital Hall. Admission is $15 for the general public, $10 for senior citizens and youth, and free for students.

Create a botanical-themed tarot card through collage in the North Barn. Teaching artist Kate Milliken guides participants in building layered pieces that draw on plant references, resulting in a personalized tarot card artwork. The session invites exploration of observation, form, and creative intuition in a multi-media setting. It is open to both beginners and experienced artists, encouraging curiosity, freedom, and personal expression. Registration is $25 for adults or $15 for children per class, and enrolling in all three sessions includes a $15 discount. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited, and advance registration is strongly recommended.

Now in its 12th year, Monadnock Developmental Services' Run~Walk~Smile partners with the Flutie 5K for Autism in Keene, New Hampshire. This family-friendly gathering in the Monadnock Region offers 5K, 10K, and 1 mile options for runners and walkers. With help from sponsors and donors, the collaboration supports the local disability community. All proceeds benefit the unmet dental needs of adults with developmental disabilities.

Spend unhurried time at Draft Gratitude during a relaxed, family friendly Visiting Day focused on meeting the senior draft horses who live there. Walk the farm at your own pace, talk with the team, and learn what life looks like for these horses after many years of work. Possibilities for the day can include moments in the barn and around the paddocks, casual Q and A about care and individual stories, a simple activity or seasonal touch, browsing BarnFinds for horse themed treasures, and an easy way to drop spare change that helps the herd. This experience suits all ages. Curiosity and kindness are encouraged, and dressing for the weather is recommended. Those wishing to bring something for the horses can choose the feeds used on site, such as Blue Seal Active Senior in the red bag, Blue Seal Hay Stretcher, and typical horse treats used for training. Every visit helps provide food, medical care, and comfort for horses who have already given so much.

Wooden Horse brings a dual tribute to America and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young to the Shea Theater Arts Center. This six-piece band focuses on the glowing harmonies and layered arrangements that shaped the 70s, moving from the easy roll of Ventura Highway and the spirit of Woodstock to the multi-part sweep of Suite: Judy Blue Eyes. Fans of Sister Golden Hair and Teach Your Children can expect faithful renditions built on tight vocals and acoustic textures. This all-ages event offers tickets at $22.50 in advance plus fees or $30 at the door. The theater and the first-floor gender-neutral restroom are wheelchair accessible, and alcohol will be available on site.

An open, supportive conversation invites the community to explore death, dying, and end of life care. Attendees can learn about free hospice resources, green burial, advance directives, and financial planning, with opportunities to ask questions and share personal experiences in a caring setting. Hospice volunteers will be available to explain no cost services offered locally, and Whitingham resident Katherine MacLean will help facilitate a thoughtful discussion for anyone who wants to speak or simply listen. Light refreshments will be available.

Keene State College Music Department faculty members Dr. Jose Lezcano on guitar and flutist Robin Matthias collaborate with pianist Virginia Eskin for a concert in the Alumni Recital Hall at the Redfern Arts Center at Keene State College. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $10 for senior citizens, and free for students.

The Percussion Ensemble presents a recital under the direction of James Walker in the Alumni Recital Hall at the Redfern Arts Center at Keene State College. Admission is $15 for the general public, $10 for senior citizens and youth, and free for students.

The Brit Pack brings generations of British rock to life in an energetic tribute that spans from the sixties to modern favorites. The show highlights songs by Led Zeppelin, Queen, The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Oasis, Tears for Fears and more. Founded by two UK-born session musicians who made the band in the United States, this performance celebrates the UK’s rich musical legacy with spirited playing and genuine heart.

Enjoy an evening of 60s nostalgia at the Greenfield Moose Lodge as The 60’s Invasion performs live favorites from the mid and late 1960s rock and pop era. The show highlights music by The Beatles, the Byrds, Jefferson Airplane, Buffalo Springfield, Strawberry Alarm Clock, the Grass Roots, and more. The band features Stevie Dunn, Jeff Ahearn, Scott Olmstead, Nadine Benzaia, Stephanie Ciccarello, and Kevin Freyenhagen. All are welcome, and the atmosphere invites dancing and sing-along moments with the authentic sound of the era and plenty of good vibes.

A program of chamber winds takes place in the Alumni Recital Hall at the Redfern Arts Center at Keene State College, featuring performances by the Flute Ensemble, Clarinet Ensemble, and Saxophone Ensemble. The Keene State College Flute Ensemble brings together student musicians and community flutists, exploring colors from soaring soprano voices to the resonant bass flute, with a program spanning traditional works to contemporary pieces under the direction of Robin Matathias. Students in the KSC Clarinet Ensemble highlight the full clarinet family, from agile E-flat to rich bass, revealing the instrument’s versatility under the guidance of Dr. Alexander Kollias. The Saxophone Ensemble offers varied repertoire crafted for saxophone ensemble, directed by Dr. Megan Dillon. Admission is $15 for the general public, $10 for senior citizens, and free for students.

Alumni Recital Hall at the Redfern Arts Center hosts a showcase of the brass family, with trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, and tuba in the foreground. Under the direction of trumpet professor Seelan Manickam, students from the Keene State College brass studios perform in both the Large Brass Ensemble and the Chamber Brass ensembles. Often regarded as the powerhouse of an instrumental ensemble, these instruments reveal muscular drive, gentle sweetness, vivid color, and heart across a varied program. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $10 for senior citizens and youth, and free for students.

Trade shopping lines for ruts and ridge lines with a one-day, guided off-road outing through Southern Vermont. Built for drivers craving late-season trail time, this annual run blends approachable challenges with the crisp air of the Green Mountains. A curated mix of green and blue level routes keeps stock and lightly modified rigs engaged without being overwhelmed, and the course taps into Class VI connectors and quieter corridors that showcase the region’s rugged character in late fall. Conditions are part of the fun, so expect mud, splashy crossings, cold temperatures, and the possibility of snow, which means no two years feel the same. A professional team from Ridgeback Guide Service sets the pace, spots obstacles, and provides real-time coaching so participants can focus on driving and learning together. The single-day format maximizes trail time without the logistics of a longer expedition, and a capped group size keeps the convoy tight and the experience smooth. Vehicles should be true 4x4 overland builds equipped with recovery gear, tools, and spare parts. Tires of at least 31 inches with a matching spare are expected, along with solid front and rear recovery points, plus a first aid kit and a basic tool kit. Confirm that your setup aligns with requirements for the planned trail difficulty before heading out. Purpose-designed routing that is hard to find on your own, distinctive late-season conditions, professional guidance, and genuine trail camaraderie make the RGS Turkey Run a Thanksgiving tradition for those who prefer earning their miles to browsing the aisles.

Spend unhurried time with the gentle giants who call Draft Gratitude home. Visiting Days are easygoing and family friendly, offering a chance to wander the farm, meet senior draft horses, ask questions, and learn what life looks like after years of work. There is no set program or rush, just space to connect, learn, and enjoy being around these remarkable animals. Activities can vary. You might spend time in the barn and near the paddocks, chat informally with the team about the horses, their care, and their stories, enjoy a simple activity or seasonal feature, browse BarnFinds, a small shop with horse-themed treasures, and drop spare change to help make a difference. All ages are welcome. Bring curiosity and kindness, and dress for the weather. If you would like to bring something for the horses, the grain they eat is Blue Seal Active Senior in the red bag and Blue Seal Hay Stretcher, and various horse treats are also used for training. Every visit helps provide food, medical care, and comfort for horses who have already given so much.

A free concert at the Redfern Arts Center at Keene State College features original works by KSC student composers alongside the student-led Video Game Ensemble. Student compositions span a wide range of instruments and voice types, highlighting distinct creative voices that explore both tonality and dissonance. These works are performed by students under the direction of Heather Gilligan and Keane Southard. The Video Game Ensemble presents upbeat arrangements of familiar video game themes. Theatre location is Alumni Recital Hall.

The Keene State College Music Department brings the Concert Choir and Chamber Singers to the Redfern Arts Center, performing in the Alumni Recital Hall. The program pairs contemporary choral selections with Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem. Dr. Sandra Howard, Coordinator of Choral Music Education and Vocal Studies, leads both ensembles, with Vladimir Odinokikh at the piano. Student conductors are Evalynn LaRose, Madigan Keating, and Flynn Ortiz. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $10 for senior citizens and youth, and free for students.

Keene Vocal Consort offers an intimate program of early vocal music performed by an auditioned chamber ensemble exploring repertoire from the medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque eras. The singers focus on strong individual preparation, shared leadership, and historically informed performance. Led by Dr. Brittney Redler, the concert takes place in Alumni Recital Hall. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $10 for seniors 62 and older, and free for students.

This concert presents a sweeping showcase of big band music performed by a full jazz orchestra in the Main Theatre of the Redfern Arts Center at Keene State College. The Keene State College Jazz Ensemble brings together student musicians from many majors, backgrounds, and musical paths who meet weekly to refine their skills and uphold the American big band tradition. The program blends classic repertoire with contemporary charts, tracing nearly a century of jazz. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $10 for senior citizens and youth, and free for students.