October Events on Our Radar

you won't want to miss these events

There are SO many events in October it might be hard to choose, so we've curated a list of our top favorite events this October. 
 

Live Music at Hanover Theatre

October at Worcester’s Hanover Theatre is set to be a powerhouse month of live music, drawing fans from across New England. The stage lights up with TUSK: The Classic Tribute to Fleetwood Mac on October 2, followed by STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas with special guest Foghat on October 3, bringing rock legends to life. The energy continues with the genre-blending brilliance of Black Violin on October 4, and the timeless voice of Amy Grant on October 6. On October 9, fans can experience the magic of Avatar: The Last Airbender In Concert – 20th Anniversary Tour, and Pink Martini closes the stretch with global flair on October 10.

Then, October 14-19 brings a new original musical, the global sensation SIX to the Hanover stage. From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st century girl power!

This lineup makes October the perfect time to visit Worcester for unforgettable performances! 

Hockey is Back!

The Worcester Railers’ Opening Weekend rolls onto the ice October 18–19 at the DCU Center with thrills, chills, and heart-pounding hockey. Saturday’s Opening Night against the Maine Mariners features the Opening Night Block Party, live music, food vendors, games, and a special intermission performance by world-class beatboxer NaPoM. Sunday is Bluey Day versus the Adirondack Thunder, including a meet-and-greet with Bluey. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or looking for family fun, Opening Weekend promises unforgettable energy and entertainment.

The Night Glows

This fall, New England Botanic Garden comes alive after dark with Glowing Wild, running Fridays and Saturdays from September 20 to October 31. The gardens transform into a luminous wonderland filled with glowing “Stranger Plants,” vibrant lights, music, and performances. Friday evenings feature 21+ entertainment with DJs and cocktails, while Saturdays bring family fun with crafts, face painting, and whimsical activities. Whether you’re seeking a magical night out or a playful evening with the kids, Glowing Wild offers an unforgettable autumn experience.

Music Worcester's BachtoberFest

BACHtoberfest (Oct 24–26, 2025) is a weekend celebration of Bach at Mechanics Hall in Worcester. Featuring four concerts, the festival spotlights performers like Concora & Baroklyn with Simone Dinnerstein, Peter Krasinski (organ), Simone Dinnerstein (Bach Inventions & Sinfonias), and the BACHtoberfest Choir. BACHtoberfest is one of two major weekend-festivals anchoring Music Worcester's The Complete Bach, an 11-year project (2024–2035) to perform all known works by J.S. Bach. The project aims to realize over 1,000 compositions by 2035, the 350th anniversary of Bach’s birth. 

Cultural Festivals

These events offer unforgettable experiences for culture lovers, families, and visitors seeking authentic local flavor. The Worcester Irish Cultural Festival honors Irish heritage with traditional dance, storytelling, and lively music. The Worcester Armenian Festival showcases Armenian food, arts, and heritage in a welcoming atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Shrewsbury St. Italian Heritage Parade fills the streets with colors, music, and Italian pride.

Art for All

Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day with a free visit to the Worcester Art Museum on Monday, October 13, 10 AM–4 PM. Explore world-class galleries, discover Indigenous artists, and enjoy a day of reflection, learning, and creativity. Perfect for families, art lovers, and travelers seeking a cultural, inspiring experience at no cost.

Magic in Motion

This month, Central Massachusetts dazzles with world-class illusion shows. Masters of Illusion at Hanover Theatre on October 12 delivers jaw-dropping magic and mind-bending feats, while Celtic Magic: An Evening of Irish Grand Illusion at the Jean McDonough Arts Center October 17–19 combines grand illusions with enchanting Irish storytelling for an unforgettable experience.

Smiles All Around

The 25th Harvey Ball Smile Award Gala, presented by the Museum of Worcester, will take place on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM at Mechanics Hall in Worcester, MA. This milestone celebration honors Senator Harriette L. “Harlee” Chandler, former President of the Massachusetts Senate and a devoted public servant. The event recognizes individuals whose commitments have made a difference in the city of Worcester, aligning with the legacy of Harvey Ball, the creator of the iconic smiley face symbol. Tickets are available for $125.

Honoring Women's Rights

In honor of the 175th Anniversary of the First National Women's Rights Convention, Mechanics Hall in Worcester will host a special event on October 22, 2025. The celebration includes a re-creation play titled Angels & Infidels, bringing to life the historic 1850 convention that marked a pivotal moment in the fight for women's rights. This immersive performance offers attendees a chance to experience the passion and determination of early suffragists, providing a deeper understanding of their struggles and achievements. The event is presented by the Museum of Worcester.

Foliage by Horseback

Experience the beauty of fall in Central Massachusetts with a guided horseback ride at Cornerstone Ranch in Princeton. Their one- and two-hour trail rides meander through vibrant foliage, offering a peaceful adventure for riders aged 10 and up. Friendly staff ensure a safe, enjoyable ride, perfect for families or couples.

Big Family Events at DCU Center

The DCU Center in Worcester hosts two family-friendly spectacles. Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow-N-Fire on October 4–5 brings high-flying stunts and glowing trucks like Mega Wrex™, Tiger Shark™, and Bigfoot® to the arena. Then, Disney On Ice presents Jump In! from October 23–26 features beloved characters like Mickey, Minnie, Elsa, and Moana in a dazzling ice-skating adventure. Both events promise unforgettable experiences for fans of all ages.

Celebrate the Best of the Season

The Sturbridge Harvest Festival (October 19–20) features crafts, food, live music, and a scarecrow contest, while Mass Audubon’s Hey Day Festival (October 4) at Wachusett Meadow offers hayrides, pumpkin painting, and canoeing. Wachusett’s AppleFest (October 18-19) and the 46th Annual Apple Country Fair (October 11) in Brookfield highlight local apples, artisans, food, and family-friendly fun amidst vibrant fall foliage.

Haunted Happenings

Central Massachusetts comes alive with thrilling spooky-season events for all ages. Phantoms by Firelight at Old Sturbridge Village (October 10–26) enchants with fire jugglers, acrobats, and eerie tales under the stars. Boo in the Woo at Polar Park (October 9–31) offers haunted tours, themed attractions, and family-friendly fun in the heart of Worcester. For a chilling literary twist, the Edgar Allan Poe Double Header at Jean McDonough Arts Center (October 29–November 1) brings Poe’s notorious narrators to life in a séance-style performance. Celebrate the season with unforgettable thrills, entertainment, and seasonal magic across Central Massachusetts.