Welcome to the very first issue of Wormtown Weekly!

Welcome to the very first edition of Wormtown Weekly—a free newsletter that skips the boring stuff and serves you only the good bits: local happenings, offbeat news, and a dash of humor from someone who actually lives here (and still dodges potholes like a pro).

This isn’t every headline—just the ones you’ll want to text your friends about. Add in a little sarcasm, a lot of personality, and you've got your new favorite weekly read.

🐾 Oh, and every issue we’ll be featuring a local adoption company or service—because Wormtown has heart, too.

Buckle up, Wormtown. Let’s make “the news” way more interesting!

In this week’s Wormtown Weekly:

Big news for your taste buds: the team behind Worcester favorites like The Fix and Bocado is opening two brand-new restaurants downtown.

💡 Why care? Together, these spots will create 70+ new jobs and give Worcester two more reasons to brag about its food scene. Date night: solved.

🔗 Read more at Worcester Business Journal

Worcester just scored a first for all of New England: Checkers (yup, the burger joint with drive-thru double lanes and famous seasoned fries) is setting up shop at 99 Gold Star Blvd. — in the old Honey Dew spot.

💡 Why care? Because when Worcester is the first in New England to land a national chain, you know we’re officially on the map. Also: fries. Enough said.

🔗 Read more at WBJ

Move over Boston — Worcester just snagged the top spot on Biz2Credit’s list of Best Cities for Small Business in America, 2025.
💡 Translation: local businesses here are thriving, the financials look strong, and the city’s vibe is officially “entrepreneur-friendly.” Not too shabby for Wormtown.

🔗 Read more on Forbes

Big Y is opening another store in Central Mass and doubling down on local. We’re talking 4,000+ local products from nearly 500 New England businesses.
💡 Translation: your grocery run could help keep small businesses humming — and maybe even introduce you to your new favorite local hot sauce.

🔗 Details via WBJ

Wallace & Gromit™: Get Cracking! Exhibit Opening
Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Location: Worcester, MA
Details: Celebrate the beloved claymation duo with the grand opening of this interactive exhibit. Perfect for families and fans of all ages.
🔗 Read more

Lift Off! Space Explorers – New Permanent Exhibit
Date: Ongoing throughout September 2025
Location: Worcester, MA
Details: Embark on a cosmic journey through this newly launched exhibit. Explore the wonders of space exploration with interactive displays and engaging activities.
🔗 Read more

Night of Hope Gala
Date: Friday, September 26, 2025
Location: Hilton Garden Inn, Worcester, MA
Details: An elegant evening supporting a noble cause. Enjoy dinner, dancing, and inspiring speeches at this annual fundraising event.
🔗 Read more

Worcester Armenian Festival
Dates: October 4, 11am-6pm - October 5, 11am-4pm
Location: 87 Salisbury St, Worcester, MA 01609
Details: We are excited to invite all of you to this year’s annual Armenian Festival. We are happy to come together again as community members, friends, and neighbors to celebrate our Armenian heritage and faith. This year will include various presentations, a church tour, musical and video productions, and of course our delicious food! This year will offer a revised menu of traditional and uniquely new items to enjoy!
🔗 Read more

Spunky could absolutely bring some joy into your life! He is not a kitten but far from old. If you haven’t had a grey boy you don’t know what you’re missing. Here’s a little bit more about him from the WARL:

Spunky is a 4 years, 11 months old male Domestic Medium Hair/Mix cat who weighs 11 pounds.

True to his name, Spunky is bursting with personality! This lively boy is a chatterbox who loves attention and isn't shy about asking for it. If you forget to give him a little love, don't worry he'll remind you with his adorable meows and expressive eyes. Spunky would be a cat that lives in a home alone, with no other pets.
This curious cat dreams of a perch by the window where he can watch the world go by. While he's never been outside, he's perfectly content staying safe and warm indoors with lots of fun stuff to do! This guy requires lots of interaction with toys and even might enjoy a walk with a harness. And don't be surprised if he hops onto your shoulder for a cuddle. Spunky is all about being close to his people and interaction.

If you're looking for a cat who will keep you laughing with silly antics, shower you with affection, and be your constant companion, Spunky is your guy.
🔗 Read more

Friday, September 19

Saturday, September 20

Saturday, September 20

Sunday, September 21

Friday, September 19

Saturday, September 20

We will be highlighting a deserving local business each week - but you get to nominate the business! Just reply to this email or send me a note at [email protected] and let me know the business that should be featured. No cost

You made it to the end of issue one—either you're a true local or just stuck in a really long line at Dunkin’. Either way, we appreciate you.

PS. Do you know a business or individual that could use a shoutout? Lemme know here! [email protected]