April showers may hamper your outdoor plans this month (and bring May flowers), but there's plenty going on to entertain you in Central MA this month! From concerts, and live theater, to special events that celebrate the 250th Anniverary of the American Revolution - we've curated a list of 10 events you won't want to miss in April:

 

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. – A Celebration of the Music of Aretha Franklin

Start your month with a soulful groove. R.E.S.P.E.C.T. – A Celebration of the Music of Aretha Franklin is bringing soul, power, and legendary hits to The Hanover Theatre in Worcester on March 30 at 7:30 PM. Experience an electrifying night of iconic anthems performed live. Don’t miss this unforgettable tribute to the Queen of Soul. Grab your tickets now, they start at $39.

 

The American Revolution Experience at the Col. Timothy Bigelow Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Worcester

The sought-after touring exhibit, the American Revolution Experience, a collaborative project of the American Battlefield Trust and the Daughters of the American Revolution is beginning its time in Massachusetts in Worcester, Massachusetts. With the goal of connecting modern audiences with the fascinating story of our nation’s origin, the exhibit tells stories through panel displays and interactive kiosks with video, maps and more. On display for 3 weekends only, you can visit Saturdays, 10:00am to 2:00pm or Sundays, 12 noon to 2:00 pm starting March 22 through April 6th.

The Oaks, Historic Home in Worcester, MA

Visitors will also be treated to a first floor tour of the Col. Timothy Bigelow Chapter house, "The Oaks," a historic home originally owned by Judge Timothy Paine (1730-1793), and it is now one of the oldest surviving homes on its original foundation in the city of Worcester. 

The American Big Band Experience

Experience the magic of the Swing Era at The American Big Band Experience on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at 3:00 PM, held at Mechanics Hall in Worcester. Enjoy reserved seating, a dance floor, and a full cash bar. Tickets range from $20 to $45, with VIP options available. 

Jim Henson's Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock LIVE!

​Join Gobo, Red, Mokey, Wembley, and Boober Fraggle on a musical quest to find the legendary Celebration Stone in Jim Henson's Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock LIVE!. This family-friendly adventure takes place on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 6:30 PM at The Hanover Theatre in Worcester, MA. Tickets are priced at $25, $35, and $45, with limited VIP post-performance meet and greet packages available for $85. Please note, this show contains fog, streamers, strobe, and blacklight effects. Lap tickets are available at the box office for children under 1 year old prior to the performance.

Start the Press! Celebrating the Newspaper That Sparked a Revolution

Join the American Antiquarian Society (AAS) for Start the Press! Celebrating the Newspaper That Sparked a Revolution on April 13, 2024, an event commemorating the 250th anniversary of Isaiah Thomas's historic press and his influential newspaper, The Massachusetts Spy. In 1775, Thomas relocated his press to Worcester, producing the city's first printed work and playing a pivotal role in the American Revolution. The original eighteenth-century press, known as "No. 1," is preserved at AAS, the national research library Thomas founded in 1812. This celebration offers activities for all ages, including operating a full-size replica press, providing a hands-on historical experience. Don't miss this unique opportunity to engage with a cornerstone of American history.

BroadwayVox at The Center at Eagle Hill

Broadway lights up Hardwick for one unforgettable night. Join an incredible lineup of New York talent as Broadway Comes to Hardwick takes the stage at The Center at Eagle Hill. Led by BroadwayVox Co-Founder Jared Trudeau and NYC actor Carolyn Berliner, this high-energy evening blends musical theater and pop hits, featuring powerhouse performances from Broadway’s rising stars.

Leyrn Turlington, known for their commanding stage presence, joins the lineup alongside Keirsten Hodgens (Six), Caitlin Houlahan (Waitress), and music director Adam Cole Klepper, who has worked with top theater artists. With soaring vocals and showstopping moments, this is a must-see event for theater lovers. Don’t miss it!

Worcester County Poetry Association's 2024 Rain Poets Read

Celebrate local poetry at the Worcester County Poetry Association's 2024 Rain Poets Read event on April 27, 2024, at 2:00 PM at the Worcester Public Library. Enjoy live readings from selected poets whose works have been featured in the Rain Poetry project, which brings poetry to public spaces in Worcester. This free, family-friendly event includes light refreshments and is open to all ages.

Brew Woo at DCU Center

​Experience Worcester's original craft beer festival, Brew Woo, on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the DCU Center Convention Center Exhibit Hall. Enjoy craft beer tastings from local, regional, and national breweries, live music, savory food offerings, and unique vendors. Two sessions are available: 1–4 PM and 6–9 PM. Tickets start at $42.

Easter Brunch at the Beechwood Hotel

Celebrate Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, at the Beechwood Hotel's exceptional brunch. Seatings are at 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 1:00 PM. Indulge in a gourmet spread with ample on-site parking. Prices are $89 for adults, $35 for children aged 6–12, and free for children under 6. Reservations are required; call (508) 453-1113 or email bwallen@beechwoodhotel.com.

EcoTarium's Community Science Vacation Week

Need plans for April school vacation week? ​Join the EcoTarium's Community Science Vacation Week from April 21–25, 2025, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Engage in hands-on activities like BioBlitz explorations, plant observations, and animal tracking, empowering participants to contribute to real-world scientific research. Designed for all ages, this event offers a unique opportunity to become a scientist in your own community.