Ashburnham MA

Ashburnham MA Local News and Community Information

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• Ashburnham Street Fair 2026

  

  Printable copy of above, CLICK HERE.

  Ashburnham to Hold Street Fair on September 20th

  Listen to this podcast covering the upcoming Ashburnham Street Fair on September 20th. CLICK PLAY.

  The Celebrate Ashburnham Street Fair is a premier community event scheduled for Sunday, September 20, 2026. Presented by Cushing Academy and organized by the Ashburnham Recreation Committee, the fair serves as a central hub for town pride, local commerce, and family-oriented entertainment. Located on Main Street, the event features a dense schedule of live music, interactive activities, and local showcases. Key highlights include performances by local school choruses, multiple musical acts on the Main Stage, and community-centric events on the Town Hall Lawn, such as dunk tanks featuring local figures and a public pie-eating contest.

  The fair is designed to transform the town’s center into an active pedestrian zone, focusing on four primary pillars: Activities, Vendors, Food, and Entertainment.

  • Date: Sunday, September 20, 2026
  • Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Primary Location: Main Street, Ashburnham, MA
  • Organizing Body: Ashburnham Recreation Committee
  • Presenting Sponsor: Cushing Academy

  The event utilizes two primary venues—the Main Stage and the Town Hall Lawn—to provide continuous engagement throughout the day.

  Main Stage: Musical Performances and Ceremonies

  The Main Stage serves as the focal point for professional musical entertainment and the event’s opening ceremony.

  Time	Performance/Activity	Participant(s)
  10:00 AM	National Anthem / Fair Opening	J.R. Briggs Chorus
  10:30 AM	Musical Performance	Moonlight Drive
  11:30 AM	Musical Performance	David Keith
  1:00 PM	Musical Performance	Traveler
  2:30 PM	Musical Performance	Retro Stew

  Town Hall Lawn: Interactive and Community Activities

  The Town Hall Lawn is dedicated to interactive programming, youth-oriented entertainment, and community-building activities.

  Time	Activity	Participant(s)/Provider
  10:30 AM	Littles Movement & Music	Synergy Dance Company
  11:00 AM	Dunk Tank	Detective Smith (Ashburnham Police)
  12:00 PM	Puppet Performance	Drawbridge Puppet Theater
  1:00 PM	Dunk Tank	Mr. Berg (J.R. Briggs Phys Ed Teacher)
  2:00 PM	Pie Eating Contest	General Public

  • Address: 32 Main St., Ashburnham, MA 01430
  • Phone: 978-827-4100
  • Email: celebrate@ashburnham-ma.gov
  • celebrateashburnham.com (Official Website)

  

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• State Rep Race

  Update 9-4-26 9am: Nate Boudreau has formally endorsed Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson stating: “this November, I’m voting for Michael J. Nicholson” Read Boudreau’s entire statement here on PDF, CLICK HERE.

  

  Nate Boudreau Out, Nicholson and Reilly on November Ballot in 2^nd Worcester District Rep Race

  While the exact number of write-in Republican votes for Nathan Boudreau in Gardner has not been announced, a win is a mathematical impossibility. The candidate won a total of 23 write-in votes total among Ashburnham, Winchendon, and Templeton. If Boudreau ends up winning 100% of the write-in 104 votes from Gardner, the total would still be only 127, 23 short of the 150 minimum required to secure the Republican nomination and be on the November ballot. Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson was unopposed as a Democrat, and John Reilly is running as an Independent.

  Boudreau prematurely congratulated Mike Nicholson in a post: “First, congratulations to Representative-elect Mike Nicholson. I wish him well, and I sincerely hope he succeeds for Gardner, Ashburnham, Templeton and Winchendon. When he succeeds for this district, we all do.” Boudreau also thanked his supporters. There is a reason why Nate Boudreau did not consider that John Reilly has a realistic chance – Besides Reilly’s lack of government experience, it may be because it has become known that Reilly had a number of profanity-laden facebook posts which have been screenshot and publicized. (In our opinion, the Reilly posts were so nasty and vile we will not publish them here.)

  John Reilly Jr. responded to the public outrage by posting: “I did and said a lot of wild and crazy things when I was younger. I’ve never claimed to be perfect or a “mainstream candidate.” I’m in this for us though. I’ve made a lot of mistakes, I’ve learned from all of them. I’ve said and done a lot of things, some I wish I could take back. I never give up though. Everyone has to make adjustments from time to time. I understand and will always root for you.”

  Interview Opportunities were offered to Reilly: Gardner Magazine has done interviews with Nicholson and Boudreau and offered the same opportunity to Reilly. Local radio station WGAW has done interviews with Nicholson and Boudreau and offered the same opportunity to Reilly and all candidates for office. Reilly has given no response.

  The current State Representative of the 2^nd Worcester District, Jonathan Zlotnik has publicly endorsed Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson for the position.

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• Boudreau Interview 8-24-26

  

  CLICK on one of the infographics below for a larger image.

  Nathan Boudreau Interview – A Campaign for 150 Write-in Votes

  Listen to the entire interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  
  Candidate Nathan Boudreau is campaigning for a write-in vote in the Republican primary for the Second Worcester District state representative seat. Primary is September 1, 2026. Boudreau emphasizes his fifteen years of municipal experience, specifically highlighting his background as a town administrator and city councilor. Boudreau argues that the current state funding formulas for education and infrastructure unfairly disadvantage rural communities compared to urban centers. His platform focuses on increasing government transparency, ensuring affordability for taxpayers, and addressing the specific needs of Gardner, Templeton, Ashburnham, and Winchendon. Ultimately, he presents himself as a prepared leader capable of challenging the status quo on Beacon Hill to secure better resources for his constituents.

  

  

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• Nicholson Interview 8-14-26

  

  Various infographics are provided to further illustrate and expand upon the themes discussed during this August 14, 2026 interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. Gardner’s “Success Architect” is running for State Representative of the 2nd Worcester District.

  

  Municipal Leadership and Regional Strategy Interview with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson

  Gardner Magazine had the distinct privilege of speaking with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson on August 14, 2026 for this interview showcasing key insights, policy positions, and municipal achievements. Listen on any device, CLICK PLAY.

  
  In this interview, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson discusses his record of municipal leadership and his vision for the 2nd Worcester District as he runs for state representative. He highlights his administration’s success in securing state grants and managing complex infrastructure projects, such as the construction of a new elementary school and various downtown revitalization efforts. Addressing regional challenges, Nicholson emphasizes the impact of systemic rising costs on municipal budgets and the importance of professional grant writing to boost local revenue. He also clarifies local controversies regarding property redevelopment and environmental safety, specifically addressing the remediation of historical sites. Throughout the conversation, Nicholson maintains that his technical experience in city management will allow him to better advocate for the district’s communities in the state legislature. He concludes by reiterating his commitment to maintaining essential services while pursuing long-term economic growth through collaborative regional planning.

  Gardner Magazine has frequently characterized the City of Gardner as the “Model City for America.” Under Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson’s tenure with the cooperation of the Gardner City Council, it is our position that the “Model City for America moniker has been earned. These infographics illustrate various aspects of the Mayor’s positions, policies, achievements, and models for success.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  Gardner Magazine Video: The Discretionary Illusion. This video explains how difficult it is for municipalities to make ends meet when money is short as such a high percentage of the monthly expenses are mandatory. While there can always be some waste, a large amount of waste is almost mathematically impossible.

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• Ashburnham – July 2026

  

  Ashburnham MA News July 2026

  The community of Ashburnham faced significant environmental and public safety challenges in July 2026, primarily driven by extreme weather conditions and infrastructure milestones.

  Environmental and Public Safety

  • Drought and Water Conservation: The state designated the region under a Level 2 Significant Drought. With summer temperatures reaching 100°F, town officials implemented mandatory water conservation schedules tied to local river flow rates. Non-essential outdoor water use is strictly prohibited between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM through September 30.
  • Fire Response: Dry conditions led to elevated fire risks. Ashburnham and Gardner fire crews successfully extinguished a quarter-acre, deep-ground brush fire flare-up on an island near Lake Wampanoag.
  • Whitney Pond Dam: Officials celebrated the successful removal of the Whitney Pond Dam and the ecological restoration of the Whitman River. The new Whitney Pond Dam Conservation Area now features public trails, benches, and educational signage focused on the thriving coldwater fishery.

  Governance and Community Events

  • Winchester Park: The park hosted various summer activities, including weekly fitness programs, live aerial performances, and a community concert by the band Finding Molly.
  • Pollinator Initiative: A planting project was completed at Winchester Park, introducing specialized shrubs and trees to support local pollinator populations.
  • Municipal Updates: The Select Board met on July 13 to address municipal business and solicit volunteers for open town board vacancies.

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• Wampanoag Brush Fire

  

  Firefighters Put Out Quarter Acre Brush Fire on Island in Lake Wampanoag – Twice

  From the Gardner Fire Department: “Yesterday evening firefighters responded to a reported brush on an island at Lake Wampanoag. Firefighters extinguished an approximate quarter acre brush Fire on one of the islands. Gardner firefighters received mutual aid from Ashburnham in Westminster, who both responded with manpower and boats. Firefighters were also assisted by two civilian boats.

  This morning, along with crews from Ashburnham Fire returned to Lake Wampanoag for rekindle of yesterday’s brushfire. Due to the ongoing drought conditions in the woods are extremely dry and fires are burning deep into the ground.

  When in the woods, especially on an island where emergency resources may be limited, always use extreme caution with campfires, never leave a fire unattended, and be careful with smoking materials. Completely extinguish all fires with water until the ashes are cool to the touch, and follow any local fire restrictions to help protect the forests. “ The Ashburnham Fire Department took the photos.

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• Ashburnham – June 2026

  

  Ashburnham MA – June 2026

  In June 2026, Ashburnham finds itself at a precarious crossroads, attempting to balance long-term ecological restoration with the immediate constraints of a strained municipal budget and a regional climate emergency. While the town celebrates milestones in river restoration, the reality of a Level 3 Critical Drought has forced a pivot toward strict resource management that now dictates the rhythm of residential life.

  Environmental Policy and Water Conservation

  Following the 2025 Water Quality Report, which provided a transparent look at the town’s supply infrastructure, Ashburnham has moved into a high-alert phase. The current Level 3 Critical Drought in the Millers Basin has triggered mandatory odd/even water restrictions. Under this logic, non-essential outdoor water use is restricted based on street addresses and is strictly prohibited between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. through the end of September. This is no longer a suggestion but a municipal necessity to prevent a total depletion of local reservoirs.

  Infrastructure and Ecological Milestones

  The Whitman River restoration project has achieved a major milestone following the removal of the Whitney Pond Dam. A year into the effort to restore the coldwater fishery, the Whitney Pond Dam Conservation Area has been formally established as a public asset. The site now features educational signage, trails, and benches, offering residents a front-row seat to the river’s ecological recovery and the return of native species.

  Public Safety and Municipal Governance

  On the governance front, the Select Board is grappling with persistent vacancies across multiple town boards and committees, signaling a need for renewed civic engagement. Meanwhile, the Ashburnham Police Department has issued a high-priority warning regarding sophisticated cyber-scams. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, federal authorities have tracked spoofing attacks against FIFA-related sites where malicious actors use fake ticket sales to harvest personally identifiable information (PII).

  Community and Youth Sports

  Local morale received a significant boost from the Ash/West 12U Cal Ripken all-star team. In a stunning regional upset, the team captured the championship title by defeating the previously undefeated Montachusett co-op team—a regional powerhouse comprising players from Fitchburg and Lunenburg.

  Municipal Schedule and Events:

  • Firefighter Sunday: Observed on June 14 at the Central Street station to honor the service of fallen members.
  • Independence Day Observance: Town Hall will close on Thursday, July 2; all other administrative offices close Friday, July 3.
  • Transfer Station: Closed Saturday, July 4; revised hours on Monday, July 6 (1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.).

  The ecological and resource-heavy focus in Ashburnham stands in stark contrast to Ashby, where physical infrastructure damage and a cooling real estate market are the primary drivers of municipal concern.

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• Boudreau not on ballot

  

  Nathan Boudreau will not be on the ballot – Not Enough Eligible Signatures

  Nathan Boudreau’s campaign for State Representative for the 2nd Worcester District has come across a major setback which was explained to Gardner Magazine in a statement from the candidate: “I’m continuing my campaign for State Representative as a write-in candidate in September’s Republican primary. When the incumbent announced he would not seek re-election, the window to act became extremely short, and enough of mine were ruled ineligible to keep my name off the printed Republican primary ballot. But the issues facing voters in Gardner, Ashburnham, Templeton, and Winchendon are too important to walk away from. Voters deserve a real choice for State Representative this fall, and I intend to continue earning their support.”

  This week Gardner Mayor Nicholson announced that he is officially on the ballot. The Mayor obtained over 500 eligible signatures.

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• Nicholson for State Rep 5-27-26

  

  Nicholson Announces he is Officially on the Ballot in State Representative Race

  Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson thanked supporters on May 27, 2026 stating: “Thank you to everyone who signed my nomination papers for my run to be our next State Representative! We collected well over the required amount and I am officially on the ballot!
  
  It was so great to meet so many individuals across Gardner, Ashburnham, Templeton, and Winchendon and I look forward to seeing more of you over the course of the next few months. Especially those of you who requested to sign but due to time constraints I wasn’t able to get to!”

  The Mayor is running for State Representative in the 2nd Worcester District which is comprised of Gardner, Ashburnham, Templeton, and Precincts 2 and 3 of Winchendon.

  Nicholson posted this collage of photos which has has views of each town in the 2nd Worcester District and links for those who wish to get involved in his campaign: Donations —- Lawn Sign Requests — Campaign Volunteer Form — Email Sign Up.

  Michael Nicholson also stated: “Thank you also to those who volunteered to help collect signatures from your family and friends. I’ve truly been blown away and humbled by the amount of support I’ve received since announcing. I’m asking for you vote this year to move the 2nd Worcester District forward and make our region stronger.”
  
  

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• Ashburnham MA – May 2026

  

  Ashburnham MA – May 2026

  The top news stories in Ashburnham, Massachusetts, this month focus heavily on municipal governance, seasonal regulations, and community events:

  Annual Town Meeting and Budget Approval

  The town held its Annual Town Meeting at the Oakmont Regional High School Auditorium. Residents voted on the proposed town budget of $21,352,162 for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026. Key articles voted upon included raising $910,000 to operate the Sewer Department enterprise fund, alongside capital spending and minor zoning adjustments.

  Seasonal Water Conservation Mandate

  The Ashburnham Select Board enacted a mandatory water conservation policy that officially went into effect on May 1 and runs through September 30, 2026. The mandate restricts non-essential outdoor water usage between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. To protect the local supply, residents must follow an odd/even day watering schedule based on their street addresses.

  Memorial Day Ceremonies

  The local veterans community organized a series of Memorial Day services. The event featured a morning procession starting at the Meeting House Hill Cemetery. It moved past the New Cemetery and concluded with a multi-war memorial service and addresses from the Grand Marshal at Town Hall. Local municipal offices were closed for the day.

  Public Safety Training and Demos

  The Ashburnham Police Department’s K9 unit collaborated with regional agencies—including the Townsend Police and Amherst University Police—for a regional criminal justice initiative. The meetup at Fitchburg State University featured demonstrations showcasing the advanced tracking and trailing capabilities of local bloodhound units.

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Around the Community of Ashburnham MA

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  In the Community

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

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