YOUR LOCAL WORCESTER AREA DIGEST
|
|
Hey, so you made it to Thursday!
Whew — Monday's blizzard didn’t just drop a pile of snow, it dropped a reminder of what this region is made of. Around here, the forecast isn’t a reason to cancel life — it’s a reason to gas up the snowblower, dig out the neighbor’s walkway, and still make it to work (or Dunks).
Central Mass folks don’t do “winter panic.” We do winter reps: shovel, salt, laugh about it, and keep it moving.
Top 5 Snow Totals (from the towns we cover)
1. Paxton — 14.0”
2. Worcester — 13.7”
3. Leicester — 13.7”
4. Auburn — 13.0”
5. Rutland — 13.0”
Also right there: Boylston — 13.0” (essentially tied for #5)
Plenty of things going on this week so lets gets started!
In This Week's Issue:
- Jerry Seinfeld at the Hanover
- Sweetgreen is coming!
- Nothing Bundt Cakes makes the list
- Another Chipotle?
|
 |
|
Straight from your neighbors' feeds
|
|
This section features snapshots, screenshots, and overheard gems pulled straight from local Facebook groups, forums, and feeds. The places where Worcester County folks show their true colors.
From laugh-out-loud moments to heartfelt posts, it's all about celebrating the unique voice, wit, and warmth of our community.
Got a screenshot?
Spotted something post-worthy and local? Email it to [email protected] with a short note.
Sent in by Cheryl T. - Worcester, MA
|
 |
|
What's moving and shaking in Worcester County
|
Chipotle plans a second Worcester location (Stafford St.)
Chipotle is pursuing a new Worcester restaurant at 105 Stafford St., expanding its footprint beyond its existing city location.
Why it matters: More fast-casual competition usually means more convenient options (and jobs) in a high-traffic corridor.
Read More
Union Station’s Grand Hall + restaurant space headed for a new operator
The Worcester Redevelopment Authority says it will issue an RFP in March to select a tenant for Grand Hall event operations and the adjoining restaurant space at Union Station, and is holding a public listening session (Feb. 25, 2026) to gather input.
Why it matters: This is prime downtown real estate—who lands it can shape weddings/events, dining, and foot traffic at a major gateway.
Read More
Worcester Chamber joins the Massachusetts Apprenticeship Network
The Worcester Regional Chamber announced it has joined the Massachusetts Apprenticeship Network, aimed at expanding workforce opportunities across the state.
Why it matters: Apprenticeships can be a real pipeline for local employers who need skilled workers—and for residents who want paid, career-track training.
Read More
Southborough: Select Board updates include Costco progress + restaurant news
A local Southborough update reported movement tied to the Costco project and “good news on restaurants,” discussed at a Select Board meeting (with follow-ups noted in the post)
Why it matters: Big retail projects change traffic patterns, nearby business activity, and local convenience—plus they often spark additional openings nearby.
Read More
Rutland: New Japanese restaurant “Mito” opens on Main Street
Rutland has a new Japanese restaurant—Mito—open for business on Main Street, highlighted in a local report tied to broader downtown chatter.
Why it matters: A new independent restaurant is a downtown win—more local dining options and more reasons to keep spending close to home.
Read More
Grafton: Commercial project at former Grafton State Hospital site (Westboro Rd.)
MassDevelopment reports a 33.2-acre parcel at 124 Westboro Rd. was sold for a planned two-building, ~200,000 sq. ft. commercial development (life science/industrial-flex uses), with a timeline that anticipated completion around Q1 2026.
Why it matters: This type of development can bring jobs, new tax base, and follow-on demand for local services (food, trades, suppliers).
Read More
Millbury: Sweetgreen opening first Worcester County location
Fresh off opening its first Central Massachusetts location in Framingham, California-based restaurant chain Sweetgreen is continuing its westward expansion in the state with a new location in Millbury. Sweetgreen is due to open a store at The Shops at Blackstone Valley at 70 Worcester-Providence Turnpike, according to its website. The firm has not announced the store’s opening date yet.
Why it matters: It’s a notable “new-to-the-area” fast-casual option and another sign that the Blackstone Valley retail corridor keeps pulling in big-name chains—good for local jobs and giving residents more quick lunch/dinner choices.
Read More
|
 |
|
Mark your calendars, Wormtown
|
|
From code evenings to holiday photo ops, here's what's coming up in the Wormtown suburbs.
Trivia Night - Worcester
Join us every Thursday from 6 to 9 PM for Trivia Night at BirchTree Bread Company. Great food, craft cocktails, local beer, and prizes for the top three teams.
Date: Thursdays, 6:00 to 9:00 PM
Location: BirchTree Bread Company, 138 Green Street, Worcester, MA 01604
Shrewsbury Public Library — Weekly Kids Programs (Ages 0–5)
A free, drop-in block of children’s programming at Shrewsbury Public Library (609 Main St.) with rotating activities (storytime-style programming, movement, colors/STEAM stations depending on day).
Date: Thu, Feb 26, 2026 • 9:30–11:30 AM.
Location: Shrewsbury Public Library (609 Main St.)
Millbury — Community Input Meeting on Downtown Revitalization (Phase III)
The Town is hosting a public meeting to review preliminary design plans for Downtown Revitalization Phase III (North Main St., Canal St., Elm St.) and gather feedback.n...
Date: Thu, Feb 26, 2026 • 6:00 PM
Location: Millbury Senior Center - 1 River St. Millbury, MA
More Info
Worcester — The Choir of Man (Hanover Theatre)
The Olivier Award-nominated, worldwide smash hit, The Choir of Man, returns to the U.S. for a highly anticipated national tour including a stop in Worcester. Set in the world’s best pub, this uplifting production serves up 90 minutes of non-stop entertainment featuring a cast of extraordinary singers, dancers, musicians, and a charming poet.
Date: Fri, Feb 27, 2026 • 7:30 PM
Location: 2 Southbridge St. Worcester
More Info
Worcester — Jerry Seinfeld (Hanover Theatre)
America’s premier comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, returns to Worcester to perform his signature stand-up routine. - A big name in our little city!
Date: Two showtimes: Sat, Feb 28, 2026 • 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM
Location: The Hanover Theatre - 2 Southbridge St Worcester, MA
More Info
Auburn — Central Mass Ducks Unlimited Annual Dinner & Fundraiser
A ticketed/dinner fundraiser event. One of those classic community fundraiser nights—good for folks who like raffles/auctions, local networking, and supporting conservation.
Date: Sat, Feb 28, 2026 • 6:00 PM
Location: Auburn Elks Lodge - 754 Southbridge St, Auburn, MA
More Info
Final Auditions for "Charlotte's Web" at Gateway Players Theatre in Southbridge, MA
Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script and role playing. This is a Youth Production for ages 7-17.
Date: Sunday, March 1st at 4pm
Location: Fellowship Hall at Elm Street Congregational Church - 61 Elm Street, Southbridge
More Info
Got an Event Coming Up?
Whether it's a craft fair, a concert at your cousin's brewery, or a holiday lights display, we want to hear about it. Share your event here
|
 |
|
Your next best friend is waiting
|
Meet Meet Charlie
Charlie is a 5 years old male Domestic Shorthair/Mix cat who weighs 11 pounds.
Adoption Fee: $145
Charlie is a gentle, loving boy with the sweetest little meow and an even sweeter heart. He's the kind of cat who doesn't ask for much, just a warm spot beside you and a steady stream of pats. In return, you'll get soft head bumps, affectionate rubs, and the quiet comfort of a loyal companion who simply wants to be near his person.
Charlie would truly shine in a calm, loving home where he can relax and soak up attention.
Health & Care: Charlie has a history of heartworm disease but is currently testing negative - great news! To keep him healthy and protected, he'll need topical heartworm prevention for life. He also has a history of chronic, intermittent upper respiratory signs (like weepy eyes or louder breathing).
These may flare up during times of stress but typically settle within a week or two. Lysine supplements can help support his immune system and reduce flare-ups. With a little routine care and love, Charlie does very well. He may not be good with other cats, or dogs as they may be susceptible to the virus. Children are okay.
Charlie isn't high maintenance; he just needs someone understanding who will give him the stability and affection he deserves. In return, he'll be your devoted little shadow.
If you're looking for a sweet, steady companion with so much love to give, Charlie is ready to meet you.
Additional Information Declawed: No Spayed / Neutered: Yes
Walk-In Adoption Hours:
Mondays, Wednesdays & Thursdays, 12 to 4 PM
Can't make it? Complete our online adoption inquiry form on our website, and we'll happily arrange a meet and greet.
Contact WARL: [email protected] or call (508) 853-0030
|
 |
|
This week's best local stages
|
|
Fresh picks across Wormtown and the suburbs. Save these dates and support your local venues.
Chris Fitz Band — Worcester
Date: Sat, Feb 28, 2026 • Doors 6:30 PM • Show 7:00 PM
Venue: WCUW Frontroom (910 Main St, Worcester)
Blues-powered “Frontroom” show featuring Chris Fitz (guitar/vocals) with Ken Clark on Hammond B3. $15 cash or Venmo at door.
Tickets / Info
Pokey LaFarge — Worcester
Date: Thu, Feb 26, 2026 • 8:00 PM
Venue: Off The Rails Music Venue (90 Commercial St, Worcester)
Ticketed show at Off The Rails.
Tickets / Info
Tyler Halverson — Worcester
Date: Sat, Feb 28, 2026 • 8:00 PM
Venue: Off The Rails Music Venue (90 Commercial St, Worcester)
Ticketed show (“In Defense of Drinking Tour”) at Off The Rails.
Tickets / Info
Cote Shaw — Grafton
Date: Sat, Feb 28, 2026 • 8:00 PM
Venue: Town House Tavern (Grafton)
Part of Town House Tavern’s Saturday live music series.
Tickets / Info
Songwriters in the Round — Worcester
Date: Sun, Mar 1, 2026 • 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Venue: WCUW Frontroom (910 Main St, Worcester)
Monthly songwriter circle with originals, storytelling, Q&A, and a workshop topic; hosted by Serena May Kilsmith.
Tickets / Info
Midori and JOMP — Worcester
Date: Wed, Mar 4, 2026 • 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Venue: Mechanics Hall (321 Main St, Worcester)
Free Brown Bag Concert Series performance (cabaret-style seating; bring lunch or buy snacks).
Tickets / Info
Mia Asano — Worcester
Date: Thu, Mar 5, 2026 • Doors 7:30 PM
Venue: Upstairs at the Palladium (261 Main St, Worcester)
Ticketed show at the Palladium.
Tickets / Info
|
|
|
|
A local gem worth knowing
|
Nothing Bundt Cakes
98 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545
If you need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser (or just a “don’t-talk-to-me-until-I’ve-had-cake” moment), Nothing Bundt Cakes in Shrewsbury is a reliable sweet stop. They specialize in classic bundt cakes with that signature thick cream-cheese frosting—available as full-size cakes, personal Bundtlets, and bite-sized Bundtinis you can mix-and-match for parties, offices, or “I brought dessert” hero status.
What to get:
• Bundtinis® (dozen): mini bundts—easy for parties, meetings, and “just one more.”
• Bundtlets: personal cakes for birthdays, thank-yous, or random Tuesday wins.
• Fan-favorite flavors: Chocolate Chocolate Chip, Red Velvet, White Chocolate Raspberry, Lemon, Confetti, plus gluten-free options (availability can vary—call ahead).
What people are saying:
• Uber Eats reviewers call them “cute and delicious” and say the cakes were “very moist.”
• An EZCater reviewer specifically shouted out the carrot cake as a favorite.
Good for:
• Birthdays and celebrations
• Office treats / client thank-you's / meetings (they offer catering + delivery options)
• Fundraisers (available as a service at this location)
Why we love it:
Because it’s low-stress dessert that looks like you planned ahead. You can walk in for something quick, or pre-order for a party—and the Bundtini boxes are basically the cheat code for feeding a room full of people without slicing, plating, or drama.
Location: 98 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Parking: Plenty!
|
|
Thank you, Wormtown
Thanks for reading. If this issue helped you find a new favorite or skip a pothole, we did our job. Send us your hidden gems and events, and we'll keep the local love rolling.
Team Wormtown Weekly
Know a business or individual that deserves a shoutout?
Email us at [email protected]
|
|
