Events Greater Gardner MA Local News

Events Around Greater Gardner MA

  • Lighting 2024 (12/1/2024)
    Gardner Tree Lighting 2024 Collage
    Officially Christmas in GardnerLyrics by Werner Poegel, Music and Vocals via AI
    Nicholson and Bergstrom 12 1 24
    Merry Mayor Mike Nicholson and Queen of Fun Patti Bergstrom

  • Holiday Happenings (11/25/2024)
    Holiday Happenings
    Gardner MA Lighting Downtown

  • Festival Trees 2024 (11/11/2024)
    Festival of Trees 2024 at Gardner Museum Collage

  • Veterans Ceremony 2024 (11/11/2024)
    Veterans Day Exercises 2024 Collage
    Veterans Day 11-11-24

  • Update 11-8-24 (11/8/2024)
    Mayor s Update 11 8 24 Collage
    Mayor’s Update 11-8-24


  • Veterans Day 2024 (11/7/2024)
    Veterans Day 2024 1380
    Veterans Day 2024 2 1380

  • Update 10-25-24 (10/25/2024)
    Mayors Update 10 25 24 1
    Mayor’s Update 10-25-24
    Mayor’s Update 10-25-24

  • Cracker Festival (10/10/2024)
    Westminster Cracker Festival collage

  • Update 10-4-24 (10/4/2024)
    Mayor s Update Collage 10 4 24
    Mayor’s Update 10-4-24

  • Hotline 9-28-24 (9/29/2024)
    WGAW Hotline Radio with Chairs
    WGAW Hotline 9-28-24

  • Oktoberfest Photos 2024 (9/29/2024)
    Fall Festival Oktoberfest Collage 2024
    Chair Luge 2024

  • Party 9-28 (9/27/2024)
    9 28 24 Collage

  • Festival – Oktoberfest (9/24/2024)
    Mug of Beer with People

  • Winchendon Fall Festival (9/24/2024)
    winchendon fall festival october 2024

  • Update 9-20-24 (9/20/2024)
    Mayor s Update 9 20 24
    Mayor’s Update 9-20-24

  • Festival – Oktoberfest 24 (9/16/2024)
    Festival and Oktoberfest 2023 Collage rev
    Photos from 2023 Event Complete Gallery, CLICK HERE.

  • Yard Sale Fall 2024 (9/12/2024)
    citywideyardsalelogo-1200

  • Hands and Mums (9/6/2024)
    hands and mums

  • Sludge Review (8/31/2024)
    sludge meeting postponed 1
    Sludge Information Session September 5, 2024

  • Update 8-16-24 (8/16/2024)
    Mayor s Update words 8 16 24
    Mayor’s Update 8-17-24
    Mayor’s Update 8-17-24

  • Night out…out (8/14/2024)

  • August – Westminster (8/11/2024)
    Westminster Concert August 24th 1

  • Dinghy 2024 (8/11/2024)
    Hubbardston Dinghy Dash 2018 Photos

  • Update 8-9-24 (8/9/2024)
    Mayors Update Collage 8 9 24
    Mayor’s Update August 9, 2024

  • Night Out 2024 (8/5/2024)
    National Night Out 2024 1380

  • Update 8-2-24 (8/2/2024)
    Mayors Update August 2 2024 collage
    Weekly Update 8-2-24

  • Museum 7-31-24 (7/31/2024)
    Gardner Museum Events Summer and Fall
  • Update 7-26-24 (7/26/2024)
    Mayor s Update July 26 2024 Collage
    Mayor’s Update 7-26-24

  • Komatsu 7-25-24 (7/25/2024)
    Maki Park Komatsu 7 25 24
    Oktoberfest overiew 2018
    This year Maki Park will bring a very different look to the former grassed area at the right.

  • Weekly Farmers (7/23/2024)
    Weekly Farmers Market at Park Street Park
    More Veggies 2

  • Farmers 7-20-24 (7/20/2024)
    Farmers Market July 20 2024 Collage
    Farmers Market Layout 2024
    Farmers Market Layout

  • After Trucks 2024 (7/14/2024)
    Gardner Food Truck Festival 2024 collage

  • Food 7-13-24 (7/8/2024)
    Gardner Food Truck Festival 2024 1200

  • Update 7-5-24 (7/5/2024)
    Gardner Magazine This week Square 1200
    Gardner Magazine This Week July 5, 2024


  • Nation 248 (7/2/2024)
    July 4th Graphic

  • Fireworks 6-29-24 (6/30/2024)
    Fireworks June 29th Collage

  • Food Truck List (6/29/2024)
    Gardner Food Truck Festival 2024 1200

  • Update 6-28-24 (6/28/2024)
    Mayors Update June 28 2024
    Mayor’s Update June 28, 2024


  • Kendall Pond Fireworks (6/26/2024)
    Gardner 239th Birthday Stamp with Fireworks

  • Summer Reading 2024 (6/21/2024)
    Summer Reading 2024 at Library 1200
    Stephanie Young 6-21-24

  • Gardner’s Birthday (6/19/2024)
    Gardner 239th Birthday Celebration
    Mayor Nicholson on Gardner’s Birthday

  • Update 6-14-24 (6/14/2024)
    Mayors Update June 14 2024 collage

  • Flag Day 2024 (6/14/2024)
    Flag flying 1200

  • Fireworks 2024 (6/12/2024)
    239th Birthday on Kendall Pond Collage

  • Mayor’s Update 6-7-24 (6/7/2024)
    Gardner Mayors Update June 7 2024
    Mayor’s Update June 7, 2024

  • Relay Countdown (6/3/2024)

  • Winchendon Winds (5/31/2024)
    Winchendon Winds Concert Band Series

    Admission is FREE.


  • Update 5-31-24 (5/31/2024)
    Mayors Update May 31 2024

  • Memorial Ceremony 2024 (5/27/2024)
    Memorial Day Cermony 2024

  • 20th Ride (5/26/2024)
    Vietnam Veterans of America 20th Ride

  • Memorial Day 2024 (5/26/2024)
    Greater Gardner Chamber Memorial Day Events 1200
    memorialday-1200

  • Market Details (5/24/2024)
    Gardner Farmers Market with layout

  • Update 5-17-24 (5/17/2024)
    Mayors Update 5 17 24 artist rendering

  • Small Biz 2024 (5/16/2024)
    Small Business Saturday 2024 collage

  • GALA 2024 (5/15/2024)
    gala 2024

  • Handle with Care (5/3/2024)
    Handle with Care Conference


  • Lithuanian 2024 (5/1/2024)
    lithuanian outing association concerts 1200

  • Relay Interview (4/30/2024)
    Relay for Life Interview 4 30 24
    Sandra Long Interview 4-30-24

  • Yard 2024 (4/29/2024)
    citywideyardsalelogo-1200

  • PACC 2024 (4/28/2024)
    pacc friday night bands updated 5 17 24 1200
    Updated on 5-17-24

  • Purple Paws 4-27-24 (4/28/2024)
    Purple Paw Walk 4 27 24 Collage


  • Gardner Music (4/27/2024)
    Summer Concert Series at Monument Park Complete 1380

  • Update 4-26-24 (4/26/2024)
    Mayor Nicholson Update 4 26 24 collage

  • April Events (4/8/2024)
    April 2024 Calendar
    Events Page Title 2024

  • Gardner’s Tree (4/6/2024)
    Gardners Christmas Tree 4 6 24 Collage
    Tree Lighting 2021 without lights 1200
    Gardner’s Tree 2021
    Tree Lighting 2021 photo with lights 1200
    Gardner’s Tree After Being Lit 2021
    Field at Gardner High 4 6 24
    U.S. Flag Flying at High School Field 4-6-24
    Monument Park 4 6 24
    U.S. Flag Flying at Monument Park 4-6-24

  • Update 4-5-24 (4/5/2024)
    Mayors Update 4 5 24

    Mayor’s Update 4-5-24



  • Bernice Richard (4/4/2024)

    Interview with Bernice Richard

  • Vietnam 2024 (3/29/2024)
    Vietam Veterans Day 2024 Collage
    National Wreath Laying Ceremony at Vietnam Veterans Memorial

  • Cactus Giveaway (3/13/2024)
    Beautiful Cactus Plant

  • Lore Exhibit (3/11/2024)

  • Cancer Research (3/3/2024)
    Estimated Cancer Cases

  • Week 3-3-24 (3/3/2024)
    Gardner Magazine This Week March 3 2024 with the Chair Man
    This Week March 3, 2024

  • Update 2-23-24 (2/23/2024)
    Gardner 2 23 24 Update Werner Poegel
    Update – Gardner – Werner Poegel 2-23-24

  • GEHM Fundraiser (2/23/2024)
    GEHM Fundraiser March 19 2024

  • Local Music (2/19/2024)
    Local Music of New England LOGO

  • Update 2-16-24 (2/16/2024)
    Mayors Update on February 16 2024
    Mayor’s Update 2-16-24

  • Fish Fry (2/16/2024)
    Fish Fry Holy Spirit Chapel Gardner MA
    fish fry is back

  • Trucks 2024 (2/16/2024)
    Gardner Food Truck Festival 2024 1200

  • Farmers 2024 (2/11/2024)
    Gardner Farmers Market 2024

  • Catholic Mass (1/30/2024)
    Catholic Mass for City Officials
    Mayor Nicholson Regarding the Mass

  • Food 2024 (1/28/2024)
    Gardner Food Truck Festival 2024 1200

  • Winter Fun (1/24/2024)
    Winter Friday Night Bands at PACC 1

  • Update 1-19-24 (1/19/2024)
    Mayors Update 1 19 24

    Mayor’s Update January 19, 2024

  • GALA Home (1/19/2024)
    GALA 2024 with artists
    Foliage Wampanoag Area 19
    Lake Wampanoag Area

  • First Lap (1/1/2024)
    Relay for Life First Lap 2024

  • Final Event (12/31/2023)
    Centennial Ball 2023

  • First Day (12/28/2023)
    First Day Hikes 1200

  • 102nd Year (12/27/2023)
    The Year Ahead 1200
    Happy New Year 2024 1200

    Here’s our page of Gardner MA Top 40 Hit Projects.

    Calendar 2024

  • Winter Ball (12/4/2023)
    Winter Ball 12 30 23

  • Tree 2023 (11/26/2023)
    Tree Lighting 2023 Collage

  • Thanks Week (11/20/2023)
    Thanksgiving Week 2023

  • Festival – Trees 2023 (10/16/2023)
    Festival of Trees at Gardner Museum 2023

    Gardner Museum Festival of Trees Begins November 8th

    The Gardner Museum 18th Annual Festival of Trees is being held from November 8th until December 2nd. Hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 4pm, Fridays from 1 to 7pm, and Saturday & Sundays from 10am to 4pm. There were 87 winners in 2021 and 102 winners in 2022. People win by buying raffle tickets and depositing them at the tree of their choice. Trees are donated by individuals and businesses. Winners are selected in the afternoon on the last day of the festival. Last year’s photos.

    Funds are used for the operation of the Gardner Museum, which relies on donations and memberships for operations. The Gardner MA Museum is a showcase of the wonderful story and history which is Gardner Massachusetts.

    The Gardner Museum is located on Pearl Street in Gardner MA. For more information about the Gardner Museum, visit their website, CLICK HERE.


  • Bazaar 2023 (10/10/2023)
    Annunciation Parish 10 6 22
    Fall Bazaar at Annunciation Parish

    FRIDAY/SATURDAY/SUNDAY EVENT! Poutines, Rapees, Chicken Stew, Tacos, and more at Annual Fall Bazaar in Gardner MA

    The Annunciation Parish Annual Fall Bazaar is Friday October 13th through Sunday October 15th. Hours: Friday 10-3, Saturday 10-4, and Sunday 10-3. The event is being held at the Holy Rosary hall at 135 Nichols Street in Gardner. There are featured events each day and featured food each day.

    Food is available for eat-in or take out. For complete details, click here.


  • Festival -Oktoberfest (9/30/2023)
    Festival and Oktoberfest 2023 Collage rev

    Gardner MA Holds Festival and Oktoberfest For Hundreds of Partying People

    Amidst cloudy skies but no rain, the Gardner Fabulous Fall Festival and Oktoberfest drew hundreds from Gardner and surrounding communities on Saturday, September 30, 2023.

    Attendees enjoyed merchandise displays, vendor booths, food, beer, and a number of bands. The Chair Luge drew a crowd.

    Gardner Magazine has assembled a Photo Gallery of this year’s event. CLICK HERE.

    This year, the Fabulous Fall Festival, Gardner Festival Committee’s Oktoberfest, and Gardner Chair Luge were combined into one big Downtown Festival. The Downtown Festival started at 10am in Downtown and went right to 8pm with music and more near the Gardner Ale House. Another Bandstand was at Orpheum Park.

    Photo Gallery – 2023 Festival – Oktoberfest. CLICK HERE.

    View our previous article with all details, click here.


  • Update 9-29-23 (9/29/2023)
    The Mayors Update September 29 2023 Topics and Events

    Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Updates the Chair City on Various Topics and Events

    Mayor Nicholson went over many items in his weekly update. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY

    Topics

    Waterford Street School is an active construction site. The Mayor explained what type of work is going on. —- Electrical Rate contract begins November 1st and offers a 14 cent rate for 3 years. —- Gardner Police Department has a new drone which has new features: a searchlight, infrared camera, and two-way AUDIO to communicate with someone. —- Free Cash has been certified at just over $2.5 million, the Mayor will be asking the City Council to spend 10% of it on more paving. —- Voters will be asked to vote YES or NO on a non-binding question regarding changes to the City Charter.

    Events:

    Senior Center Health Fair at the Waterford Street Community Center October 4th from 10am to 4pm. with over 100 vendors. —- Monday October 2nd at 6:30pm the Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Vigil on the front steps of Gardner City Hall. —- Levi Heywood Memorial Library Book Sale Friday 9/29 9am to 4;30pm and Saturday 9am to 4pm. — Fabulous Fall Festival and Oktoberfest is Saturday September 30th. —- Falloween for youngers is Friday, October 27th from 10am to noon. Halloween in the City is October 31st from 5 to 7pm. City Primary Election and Preliminary Election is October 10th – The Mayor went over the poll locations in the update. General Election is Tuesday, November 7th. – Sunday, October 1st is the Walk to End Alzheimers. – Gardner is the community with the highest rates of dementia in Worcester County.


  • Festival Saturday (9/28/2023)
    Fabulous Fall Festival September 30th

    Gardner MA Downtown Festival This Saturday September 30th

    This year, the Fabulous Fall Festival, Gardner Festival Committee’s Oktoberfest, and Gardner Chair Luge are combined into one big Downtown Festival. The Downtown Festival starts at 10am in Downtown and goes right to 8pm with music and more near the Gardner Ale House. Event is on Main, Central, and Parker Streets.

    Highlights include the various vendors including 4 food trucks, the Hofbrahaus Bavarians at 1pm, the Gardner Chair Luge at 2pm, Free Birthday cupcakes from Parker House of Pizza at 3pm, Cornhole Tournament at 3pm, and Live Music on 2 Stages from 3pm to 6:45pm located at Orpheum Park and West Street Parking Lot.

    2023 LIVE MUSIC – FREE CONCERT

    West St. Parking Lot Stage —- 3:30 PM The Bill Price Band – Nationally Recognized Blues —- 5:15 PM Seth Rosenbloom – Another big Blues Name —-6:45 PM Point The Finger – Local Boys Done Good

    Orpheum Stage – up the street —-3:00 PM Cara & Val —- 4:00 PM Scott Alan Savoy —- 5:00 PM Route 2 Revolution —- 6:00 PM Bodega Dog

    Gardner Square Two event information, CLICK HERE —- Gardner Ale House Oktoberfest page, CLICK HERE

    Downtown Gardner will be transformed into a giant pedestrian shopping and entertainment zone. Merchandise will be displayed by downtown merchants and outside vendors. Non-profit agencies will be on hand. Food Trucks will have delicious offerings. Entertainment includes games, music, inflatable jumping structures, and costumed characters. There will be a German Beer Garden at the Gardner Ale House from 11am to 8pm and a German folk band, Hofbrahaus Bavarians will be performing. The Gardner Chair Luge will be at 2pm.

    Huge Photo Gallery from 2022, CLICK HERE.

    An Event So Big and So Worthy of Your Attendance it Has a Map!

    Fall Festival Map

  • The Conductor (9/28/2023)
    The Conductor The Serious Business of Government

    Gardner Mayor Nicholson has been called one of America’s most effective Small City Mayors, even being invited to the White House to speak about Gardner’s success. We asked him about everything in detail.

    We came away from the interview realizing that it was hard to document all that has been accomplished in Gardner in 3 years and that Mayor Nicholson still has the energy and desire to do even more in the next couple of years.

    Complete Interview page with text of all questions and answers, CLICK HERE.

    The Conductor – The Serious Business of Government in Gardner Massachusetts – An Interview with Mayor Michael Nicholson

    We had the honor of speaking with Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson with an in-depth interview concerning his time in office so far. It showcases the serious business of government and it reveals exactly what has been achieved and what it takes to lead a small City like Gardner. And, it reveals Mayor Nicholson’s vision of Gardner’s positive future trajectory. Listen to the interview on any device, CLICK PLAY.

    The Conductor – Mayor Michael Nicholson 9-26-23

    We asked the Mayor about: 3 perfect Federal Audits — New Businesses —- Going after Junky Buildings — Public Safety Improvements —- Impactful People Policies — Enviro Champ — Respecting Taxpayers — Improving Education — Being tested as a leader — Delegating while remaining in the know — Getting Gardner noticed — Blight to Promise — Increase in Amenities — Company Success — Housing Needs — Setting transparency standard — Parks and Recreation — As the Conductor — Projects in the Works —- 2 dozen areas where there’s MORE of a good thing — A dozen areas where’s there LESS of a bad thing — Live Music — Continuing Momentum — Future Business — Continuing Efforts on behalf of Gardner Citizens. Complete Interview page with text of all questions and answers, CLICK HERE.


  • Books – Fall (9/27/2023)
    Friends of Library Book Sale Fall 2023

    Book Sale at Levi Heywood Memorial Library in Gardner MA

    The Friends of the Levi Heywood Memorial Library Book sale is being held on Friday September 29th 9-4:30 and Saturday September 30th from 9-4. Members can attend early at the preview sale on Thursday, September 28th from 4-7pm. (Memberships can be obtained at the preview event and are only $7 per year for an individual, $5 for Senior (60+) or student. Members get entrance to the book sale preview and museum passes. The Friends of the Library support the library including programs for adults and children. More information, CLICK HERE.

    Pricing ranges from 25 cents for a Children’s/Tween soft cover, 50 cents for a Children’s/Tween Hardcover, to $1 for a non-fiction hardcover, and $2 for a fiction hardcover. Also for sale: Music cds and movie dvds for $1 each, Music, CD, or DVD collections at $3 each. Vintage Records and miscellaneous items such as games, puzzles, and Super Heroes are as priced.


  • Mayor’s Update 9-22-23 (9/22/2023)
    Mayors Update from Orpheum Park 9 22 23

    On Last Day of Summer, Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Does Update from Orpheum Park

    Mayor Nicholson updated the City from Orpheum Park on Friday, September 22, 2023. Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.

    Mayor’s Update 9-22-23

    Thank yous: Mayor Michael Nicholson thanked everyone involved in the Centennial Celebration Parade and band performances, saying “it was really something that made me really proud to be from Gardner….” Next Centennial Celebration will take place at the Winter Ball on December 30th to be held at Perry Auditorium at Gardner City Hall.

    New Court: The Mayor spoke of the Veterans Treatment Court being created anew at the request of Judge Mark Goldstein, the First Presiding Justice over at the District Court. Veterans at this court avoid jail by getting sentenced to treatment and even get paired with a volunteer who will check in on them to make sure they are following through on treatment plans. This is only 1 of 7 such courts in Massachusetts and the only one in Worcester County.

    Congratulations: The Mayor congratulated Veterans Agent Lynette Gabrila on her appointment to the new Veterans Equality Review Board. He also complemented Empire Management for the work they are doing to enhance their building next to Orpheum Park.

    Events: City-Wide Yard Sale is Saturday, September 23rd. Fabulous Fall Festival and Oktoberfest is Saturday, September 30th. A Domestic Violence Awareness Vigil will be held on the steps of City Hall October 2nd at 6:30pm. Halloween will be held on October 31st from 5 to 7pm.


  • Parade – Performance (9/21/2023)
    Centennial Parade and Band Performance 9 17 23

    AUDIO of Gardner MA Centennial Parade and GHS – UMASS Performance

    For our readers and listeners, we are making AUDIO available for you to listen to on any device. CLICK PLAY. If you missed it, or just want to enjoy the parade and performances again, here they are:

    Centennial Parade 9-17-23
    GHS – UMASS Band Performance 9-17-23

  • Mariachi Delight (9/21/2023)
    Mariachi Band at City Hall 9 21 23

    Mariachi Band Delights Listeners at Gardner City Hall Sept. 21, 2023

    Listen to the band on any device, CLICK HERE.

    Mariachi Band at City Hall 9-21-23

    This was all part of the 3rd Annual Celebration for Hispanic Heritage Month organized by Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson. The Mariachi Band was delayed in traffic and began about 6pm. Hispanic Heritage Month information, CLICK HERE.


  • Hispanic Heritage (9/20/2023)
    Hispanic Heritage Month 2023 1200

    Hispanic Heritage Month to be Celebrated at City Hall

    From Gardner City Hall – Join us and celebrate! Thursday, September 21, 2023 at 5:30pm, Gardner City Hall front steps. For the 3rd year in a row, Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson will welcome all who wish to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

    Last year, residents were delighted with exciting Hispanic Food Trucks, live Mariachi music (planned again for this year), and Gardner High School Senior Nelli Esquedero wrote a special poem for the event. The event was originally scheduled for last week and was rescheduled to this date.

    Here’s a small taste of the Mariachi Band from last year.


  • Gardner City-Wide (9/19/2023)
    Gardner City Wide Yard Sale 9 23 23

    Gardner MA City-Wide Yard Sale Preparations Underway

    The Gardner MA City Wide Yard Sale is Saturday, September 23, 2023. Event is rain or shine and permits have been waived. Deadline to get on the Google map is Thursday the 21st. As of Tuesday September 19th, there were 75 houses signed up.

    Any questions email gardneryardsale@gmail.com Facebook page. Current Map of participating homes.

    citywideyardsalelogo-1200
    Cluster of homes 1200

    Cluster of Bargains in Gardner MA

    Yard Sale Map as of 8pm on September 19, 2023 shows a cluster of bargains waiting to be had in Gardner, Massachusetts. Gardner’s Julie Mazza has started a tradition of a Fall and Spring Yard Sale.

    While browsing Yard Sales in the community, many shoppers enjoy eating at various Gardner establishments.

    View the current map, CLICK HERE.

    Coming up on September 30, 2023 is the Fall Festival in Gardner. For more information, CLICK HERE. There will be the Fabulous Fall Festival in Downtown Gardner, the Oktoberfest, and the Chair Luge.


  • Mayor’s Update 9-15-23 (9/15/2023)

    A Proud Moment for Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson in advance of Centennial Parade

    Listen to the update on any device. CLICK PLAY.

    Mayor’s Update September 15, 2023

    Gardner as Good Regional Citizen: Mayor Nicholson detailed efforts to support the city of Leominster which experienced unprecedented challenges due to flood this week. Gardner was in contact contact with that City’s Mayor. Nicholson detailed some of the Gardner damage and thanked Gardner Dispatchers and the Gardner Fire Department “For all the work that they did during that storm to help those that did have issues and called with flooding in their basements and roofs leaking and things of that nature” .

    Gardner Support of Non-Profits: The Mayor congratulated Care Central VNA on their fundraiser ‘I wanna thank them for their commitment to our residents here….they’ve really continuously stepped up to the plate.” “The Gardner ARC is a nonprofit based in the city that host social events for those who have developmental disabilities.”

    Gardner Support of Open Space and Parks: “There will be an official ribbon cutting for the Baiey Brook Park pickleball courts….as well as Park Street Park this coming Tuesday at 1pm. Within the next month, DPW will start to begin work on new Disc Golf Course and Frisbee golf course at Bailey Brook Park.

    Gardner Support of Yard Sales: Permit requirement waved for City-wide Yard Sale on Saturday September 23rd.

    Gardner Support of Gold Star Famiies. Mayor Nicholson stated, “The city is working together to put an event on to thank our Gold Star families for their sacrifice of their loved ones here in Gardner. And we are working on some, announcements that will come later related to that.

    Hispanic Heritage Night moved to next Thursday, September 21st (there had been a scheduling conflict) Real Mariachi Band will be there

    Support of Voting Process – City Clerk reminds deadlines are approaching to register for preliminary election and primary on October 10th.

    DETAILS ON THE PARADE – Mayor Nicholson gave details of the Sunday September 17, 2023 parade at 1pm including 70 acts, the parade route, Best places to view is Central Street and Parker Street. The Mayor thanked all local media for helping to promote the parade. Here’s the official program, CLICK HERE.


  • Parade Details (9/13/2023)

    Logistics: Centennial Parade for Sunday, September 17, 2023 at 1pm.

    The Parade People and the Logo

    Parade Coverage: WGAW Radio has announced plans to broadcast the entire parade live featuring MC’s Patti Bergstrom and Mike Richard. (AM 1340, 98.1 FM, and Live Stream OFFICIAL PARADE PROGRAM, CLICK HERE – pdf —- OFFICIAL PARADE PROGRAM, JPEG IMAGE, CLICK HERE Various floats, participating businesses, Antique cars, and Marching Bands are expected. – Notable Participants include: Public Safety vehicles from Gardner PD and Gardner Fire, Grand Marshal Ed Atter and others in antique cars, 50 marchers from Holy Family Academy, Gardner Boy Scouts Troop 4, a GAAMHA fall theme float, Horse-drawn hearse from Boucher, Gardner Relay for Life with float and dozens of marchers, Gardner DPW Little Big Chair, SK Pierce with mansion theme, TTT Family Farm Horse drawn carriage with princesses Cinderella and Belle. Marching Bands: Gardner High School Wildcat Marching Band, Oakmont Regional Marching Spartans, Ancient Mariners Fife and Drum Corps, Aleppo Shriners and Clowns, Hispanic Community of Gardner, Great American Marching Band, UMASS Minutemen Marching Band. Parade is scheduled to begin at 1pm. OFFICIAL PARADE PROGRAM, CLICK HERE – pdf —- OFFICIAL PARADE PROGRAM, JPEG IMAGE, CLICK HERE

    Radio Station Button WGAW Listen Live

    CLICK BUTTON at left to Listen to Parade Live

    Live Coverage of Parade begins just before 1pm

    PARADE ROUTE

    Parade Route Revision 3 truncated 1200

    More Details have been released regarding the logistics of the upcoming Gardner MA Centennial Parade for Sunday, September 17, 2023. Complete Press Release from Mayor Michael Nicholson, CLICK HERE. —- Complete Map in pdf format, CLICK HERE.

    Route PreparationTrimming: DPW has weed-wacked and trimmed growth along the parade route. The City reports that the Department of Public Works utilized a mixture of white vinegar and dish detergent as a weed killer due to MassDEP regulations and then came back and cut the remnants.

    Parking: The Press Release details the “No Parking” areas. Public parking is allowed at the Gardner Veterans Skating Rink on Veterans Drive, Park Street Park, and the municipal lots on Knowlton Street, Nichols Street, and Connors Street. West Street Parking lot will not be available as its only entrance is on the parade route.

    Divisions: The 7 Divisions of the parade with a total of 70 participants are staging at different locations prior to parade start. Elm Street is closed to traffic at 11:30am, other streets on parade route close at 12:30pm

    Security; All 30 Gardner Police Officers and the Chief and Deputy Chief have been called into duty and will be spread throughout the parade route. Additional support has been secured from the Massachusetts State Police. Officers will be on foot patrol, bicycles, and unmarked throughout the route as well as in cruisers at certain intersections. The K-9 and Drone units will also be in operation at the event.

    Food: Six Food Trucks will be at the event, located on Cottage Street behind the Monument Park bandstand, former Bank of America parking on on Parker Street, and the GFA Federal Credit Union parking lot on Parker Street. Port-o-Potties: 1 additional at Monument Park in addition to the 2 already there and 1 in the West Street Parking lot. Additional at performer setup and breakdown locations.

    Show After Parade: Following the parade’s completion, our police department motorcycle unit (2 bikes) and 2 cruisers will escort the 8 busses of the UMass Band and the 1 bus of the GHS band from Waterford Street School to Gardner High School. The show is scheduled to start at 3pm, but is flexible depending on the parade time. The GHS Band will perform their show, The Music of Stevie Wonder, followed by the UMass Marching Band. There will be a brief presentation between acts. Free food (burgers and hot dogs) will be provided at the newly completed concession stand by the Montachusett Suicide Prevention Taskforce. Free ice cream products will also be provided by Fidelity Bank.


  • Festival 2023 (9/7/2023)
    Fabulous Fall Festival September 30th

    Gardner MA Downtown Festival Coming up on Saturday September 30, 2023

    This year, the Fabulous Fall Festival, Gardner Festival Committee’s Oktoberfest, and Gardner Chair Luge are combined into one big Downtown Festival. The Downtown Festival starts at 10am in Downtown and goes right to 8pm with music and more near the Gardner Ale House.

    Downtown Vendor Information, CLICK HERE. (deadline to register is September 23rd) —- Gardner Square Two event information, CLICK HERE —- Gardner Ale House Oktoberfest page, CLICK HERE

    Downtown Gardner will be transformed into a giant pedestrian shopping and entertainment zone. Merchandise will be displayed by downtown merchants and outside vendors. Non-profit agencies will be on hand. Food Trucks will have delicious offerings. Entertainment includes games, music, inflatable jumping structures, and costumed characters. There will be a German Beer Garden at the Gardner Ale House from 11am to 8pm and a German folk band, Hofbrahaus Bavarians will be performing. The Gardner Chair Luge will be at 2pm.


  • Exact Route (8/31/2023)
    Parade Map Complete

    Exact Centennial Parade Route Released

    City of Gardner Centennial Celebration Parade is Sunday, September 17, 2023 beginning at 1pm. Map includes route, road closures, and detours. No on-street parking beginning at 7am. Roads to close that day around 12:30pm, reopening after UMASS Band travels back on way to GHS.

    More detail, CLICK HERE.


  • UMASS Show (8/24/2023)
    UMASS Marching Band Collage revised

    UMASS Minuteman Marching Band Coming to Gardner MA for Fall Parade and LIVE Show

    The UMASS Minuteman Marching Band will be marching in the Centennial Parade which begins at 1pm on Sunday September 17, 2023. Later, UMMB will perform a LIVE show on the grounds of Gardner High School at 3pm. View the band’s website, CLICK HERE.

    One of the Best in the Nation

    The origins of the UMASS Marching Band date back to 1873 when an 11 member MAC Drum Corps was at Massachusetts Agricultural College. View the complete history, CLICK HERE The band’s first performance of “My Way” was in 1978. The first of 3 appearances in a Presidential Inaugural Parade occurred in 1981. The UMMB has been recognized as one of the nation’s most outstanding college bands. It played at the 2013 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, did the Patriots halftime show in 2018, and showed off its new uniforms during the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California on New Year’s Day, 2018.


  • Parade Deadline (8/15/2023)
    Parade Deadline Approaches

    Gardner Magazine Discovers “You” Haven’t Signed Up for Centennial Parade

    Deadline is looming to sign up for the much awaited Centennial Parade coming up Sunday September 17, 2023 at 1pm. It all starts at Elm Street and ends up at Waterford Street.

    Registration Forms are due August 21st so make sure they get yours. Registration form pdf, CLICK HERE. Here’s how “you” can get in on the fun. Email gardner100@gardner-ma.gov or visit the Centennial Committee’s Facebook page CLICK HERE.

    Fees: Businesses – $100, Non-profit – FREE, Antique cars – FREE

    We knew “you” hadn’t registered so we are giving you this reminder. With so many people going, it’s great exposure for your business or non-profit. Or you can show off your Antique Car!. See you at the parade.


  • Museum Fair (8/5/2023)
    Gardner Museum Craft Fair August 12 2023 10am to 4pm

    HUGE Craft Fair Comes to Gardner MA Museum on Saturday, August 12, 2023 – 10am to 4pm

    The 2nd Annual Craft Fair at the Gardner Museum on Pearl Street in Gardner is Saturday, August 12, 2023 from 10am to 4pm (rain date August 13th). A huge assortment of craft vendors is sure to draw a crowd and includes jewelry, handmade ceramics, handmade wreaths and decorations, wooden floral arrangements, hand-carved wood caricatures, dungaree bags, sport towels, dog bandanas and collars, gnomes, soy candles and framed pebble art, lap blankets and holiday items, quilts, pot holders, totes, yarn wreaths, tabletop items tshirts, and hair items.

    There will be a Museum Gift Shop table and a raffle table with donated items including a wide assortment of gift certificates.

    Tata’s Fonda will be there at lunch time (11:30-2:30) with their delicious food truck.

    Dog Bandanas and Collars
    Dog Bandanas and Collars to be sold at Craft Fair

  • Ashbrook Haynes (8/4/2023)
    sign Ashbrook Haynes

    Change of Artist for Saturday’s performance at Monument Park in Gardner MA

    Ashbrook Haynes plays Monument Park on Saturday August 5, 2023 from 6pm to 8pm. Rain Date is August 6th from 2-4pm.

    Ashbrook Haynes is a last minute entry, as the original band scheduled can’t make the date.

    Parking at Park Street Park
    Plenty of parking at Park Street Park and on 1 side of Park Street.

  • Mayor’s Update 8-4-23 (8/4/2023)
    Mayors Update for August 4 2023

    A Gardner MA Update from the Site of National Night Out

    Gardner Mayor Michael Nicholson updated the Chair City. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

    Mayor’s Update August 4, 2023

    The Mayor spoke about National Night Out, the sidewalk paving occurring on Lawrence and Pearl Street, Progress in Downtown Gardner, launch of Wood’s Plus “Swift Ride”, the Craft Fair at The Gardner Museum on Saturday, August 12th, and congratulated Sarah Chesley for 5 years service as a dispatcher.


  • Night Out After (8/4/2023)

    Gardner PD Takes Photos and posts, “What a night out! Our Department and partnering agencies were excited to be with our community for the 10th Annual Greater Gardner National Night Out. Thanks to all the vendors that came out and the Gardner Community Action Team for their amazing work putting this together!” Thanks for the great photos, and more importantly for all the Gardner PD does every day to help save lives in the Chair City!

    National Night Out After Photos 2023

  • Dinghy Dash (8/1/2023)
    Dinghy Dash Cardboard Boat Regatta

    Cardboard Boat Regatta Comes to Hubbardston MA in August

    Got plenty of cardboard and duct tape? Can you build something which floats? Then you can enter the 6th annual Dinghy Dash Cardboard Boat Regatta coming Saturday August 26, 2023 to Brigham Pond in Hubbardston at 10am

    There are 3 categories: Single Occupant Adult, Single Occupant Youth, and Group Vessel. Entry fee of $20 and deadline to enter is August 21st. Each category has a 1st Prize of a $150 gift card and 2nd Place of a $50 gift card.

    Dinghy must be made from cardboard and duct tape. No flex seal, styrofoam, or plastic. Must be fashioned after some style of boat. Inspections will be 9-10am. Store bought paddles are allowed. Up to 4 persons in dinghy

    Complete Rules and Entry Forms on the Town of Hubbardston website, CLICK HERE. —- For questions, email Hubbardston250@Gmail.com


  • Fall Yard Sale (8/1/2023)
    gardner fall yard sale 1200

    Gardner MA Fall City Wide Yard Sale to be Saturday September 23, 2023

    The Gardner Massachusetts Fall City Wide Yard Sale date has been announced as the first Saturday of Fall, September 23, 2023. That day is in fact the first day of Fall this year! This event will be held rain or shine with no rain date like the Spring. Yard sale permit requirement is waived per Mayor Nicholson for 9-23-23 only. To add your name to the map, email organizer Julie Mazza: gardneryardsale@gmail.com. The deadline to sign up so you get on the map is Thursday September 21st.

    We interviewed some Yard Salers in the Spring, CLICK HERE for article


  • National Night Out (7/31/2023)
    National Night out 2023 Collage

    National Night Out – August 3, 2023 from 5:30 to 8:00pm at Gardner High School

    We spoke with Veronica Patty, who gave us more details about this event. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY,.

    Veronica Patty – National Night Out 7-31-23

    10th Annual Greater Gardner MA National Night Out is Thursday August 3, 2023

    The National Night Out event is August 3, 2023 from 5:30 to 8pm at Gardner High School, 200 Catherine Street, Gardner. Rain date is August 10th.

    “The Ultimate Community Experience” featuring a Pizza Contest —- Live Band – The Big Random featuring “Girls Night of Rock” with Danielle and Amanda with songs by Janis Joplin, Tina Turner, Linda Ronstadt, Joan Jett, Pat Benatar, and more. —- Free Raffles —-Giveaways —- Scavenger Hunt —- Story Walk —- Resources and Vendors —- Helicopter Landing —- Touch a Truck —- Free Ice Cream —- Bounce Houses and Games —- Obstacle Course —- Charity Dunk Tank —-Gardner Cheerleaders Performance

    While Gardner is celebrating a decade doing this event, National Night Out was actually started 40 years ago and is generally celebrated throughout the country on various dates in the early part of August each year as a community-building campaign promoting partnerships to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. It provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.


  • Parade – Cars (7/27/2023)
    The Parade of Cars

    For more information on this parade, please contact Gardner100@Gardner-MA.gov

    View the complete Classic Car Gallery, CLICK HERE.

    Gardner MA September Centennial Parade in Search of Antique Cars

    The exciting Centennial Parade is taking place Sunday, September 17th beginning at 1pm and going from Elm Street to Waterford Street. The Centennial Committee has been actively inviting other communities to participate with their Public Safety vehicles. Businesses can participate for a $100 fee. Non-profits can participate for a $25 fee.

    Antique Cars are Wanted

    The Gardner Centennial Committee posted, “Have a classic or antique car that you like to drive? Then consider joining the City of Gardner Centennial Parade! The planning committee is looking for classic cars to enter the parade. If interested, please contact us at gardner100@gardner-ma.govThe Centennial Committee has told us that there is no registration fee for antique cars as long as they are not advertising a business. Also, for a limited time, the registration for non-profits is waived, so sign up soon!

    Parade Route Sunday September 27 2023 at 1pm
    Parade Route – Sunday September 23, 2023 at 1pm


  • After Centennial Celebration (7/22/2023)
    Summer Centennial Gardner PD
    Summer Centennial 27

    Summer Centennial Celebration held in Gardner MA with Beautiful Weather

    The Gardner Summer Centennial Celebration was held on Saturday, July 22, 2023 from noon until 6pm on the grounds of Mount Wachusett Community College. The band, Plead the 5th and DJ, Jacob Cormier were enjoyed by those who attended. Food was consumed at the Food Truck area and there was plenty of place to sit and talk with friends at the tables provided. The Kid Zone put smiles on the faces of youngsters.

    There were a number of vendors including non-profits. And true to their mission of keeping the community safe, the Gardner Police Department handed out about 150 bike helmets and bike lights posting, “We spoke with kids and families about bicycle safety while enjoying the beautiful weather and this incredible event!”

    It had a community atmosphere filled with fun and fellowship. It was a true family event. In the spirit of fun, Gardner Mayor Nicholson, among others, took turns at the Dunk Tank where many delighted youngsters and adults seemed to pitch very accurately today. COMPLETE PHOTO GALLERY

    Summer Centennial 3
    Summer Centennial 2
    Summer Centennial 42
    Summer Centennial 32
    Summer Centennial 15

    We spoke with Mayor Nicholson while he was still dry. Here’s what he said. Listen on any device. CLICK PLAY.

    Mayor Nicholson on 7-22-23


    Summer Centennial 24
    Summer Centennial 29

    The Gardner Summer Centennial Celebration was a great event on a beautiful day. Will it be repeated next year and be the second year of an annual Summer Celebration?

    Summer Centennial 44

  • Mayor’s Update 7-21-23 (7/21/2023)
    Mayors Update July 21 2023

    For more details and the complete page on the Gardner Summer Centennial Celebration taking place Saturday, July 22, 2023 from noon to 6pm at Mount Wachusett Community College, CLICK HERE.

    Gardner MA Mayor Michael Nicholson Focuses on Gardner Events, Amenities, and Public Input in Update

    Listen to the Update on any device. CLICK PLAY.

    Mayor’s Update July 21, 2023

    Events: City Summer Centennial Celebration Saturday July 22, 2023 from noon to 6pm at Mount Wachusett Community College. —- Fall Centennial Celebration Parade September 17, 2023 – (Entrance fee businesses $100, Non-profit $25) Registrations still open —- Farmers Market is Thursdays from 8:30am to 12:30pm at Waterford Street School. Vendors can contact Nadine Smith at (978) 413-1859 (Crafters this year too) Gardner Senior Center is offering coupons. —- Senior Center Cookout is noon on Wednesday July 26th at the Templeton Fish and Gun Club. Tickets available at Senior Center.

    Public Input: August 2, 2023 6-7pm Public meeting regarding Wayfinding —- MART met with City officials regarding public transportation in the City. —-The Gardner Cultural Council is having a Community Input Survey.

    greenwood pool 7 21 23

    Amenities: Greenwood Pool Open Again beginning Saturday July 22, 2023. Spray Park to open in 1-2 weeks if all goes well. —- Park Street Park visits encouraged – reminder that Crystal Lake is a reservoir and not for swimming.

    Greenwood Pool is shown on July 21, 2023 ready to open Saturday July 22nd.


  • Weekend Entertainment (7/18/2023)
    Weekend Music Entertainment Gardner 7 22 23

    4 Chances for FREE Weekend Musical Entertainment in Gardner MA

    Friday Night July 21st at the P.A.C.C. – Travelin Jones 7pm to 11pm – Country Classics

    Saturday July 22nd at MWCC – Band: Rock and Dance with Plead the 5th and DJ: Jacob Cormier – Noon to 6pm

    Saturday July 22nd at Monument Park – Timeless at 6pm – Rock and Pop Classics

    Start off your weekend and view the classic car show at the Polish American Citizens Club and listen to the music of Travelin Jones. Take the family to Mount Wachusett Community College on Saturday, July 22, 2023 for the Summer Centennial Celebration from noon to 6pm with so much family fun, FREE Kids Zone, Food Trucks, dozens of vendors, and music all day long. And then, on your way out, take a short ride down the street to Monument Park and relax to the music of Timeless. It’s a FREE weekend of fun in Gardner, Massachusetts.