Thursday, October 9

10:30 am: Medicare Seminar at Paxton Senior Center. Medicare advisor Joseph Best outlines the options, kinds of coverage, and whether to change plans. Medicare open enrollment is Oct. 15-Dec. 7.

12-5 pm: Art exhibition that features two Holen artists, Alana Garrigues and Dominic Quagliozzi. Wednesdays through Sundays while the exhibit runs through Oct. 19. At ArtsWorcester, 44 Portland St., Worcester.

1 pm: Emergency 911 presentation at the Rutland Senior Center. What constitutes an emergency? When is it appropriate to call 911? Join Jodi from the Central Mass. Regional 911 District who will answer all your questions.

6:30 pm: An historical introduction to the people and places that helped make Paxton the town it is today. At Paxton Senior Center. Presenters are Paxton historians Anita and Richard Fenton. Hosted by the Paxton Woman’s Club. If you want to learn about the Club, come at 6 pm. Light refreshments will be served.

6:30 pm: Ghosts of Sleepy Hollow with author Sam Baltrusis at Gale Free Library. Join the author as he weaves bone-chilling stories about this section of New York on the banks of the Hudson River with its dark history of witches, spies, and pirates. Registration is required. 

Friday, October 10

10:30-11:30 am: Paxton Fire Station visit for young children and their caregivers thanks to Wachusett Community Connections and Richards Memorial Library. Meet at the Paxton Fire Department, 576 Pleasant St. Learn about fire safety, meet fire fighters, and see fire trucks.

Saturday, October 11

10 am: New flagpole dedication on the Rutland Town Common. Thanks to Lou Cornacchioli who led residents and local businesses to raise more than $12,000 to purchase a new pole, flag, memorial plaque, and solar light to replace the original pole that has stood on the Common since 1946. Mark Sinkewich of Wachusett Excavating removed the old pole and installed the new one.

Sunday, October 12

11 am-1 pm: 2.5-mile round-trip hike hosted by Mass. Dept. of Conservation and Recreation Less and Terry Campbell Quabbin Visitor Center. Hidden History: Webster Road Trail. Relatively flat terrain. Quabbin’s ghost towns are hiding in plain sight – if you know where to look. This guided, interpretive walk reveals clues about the hidden history of Webster Road. Explore old cellar holes and historic stone walls, get to know native and invasive plants, and learn more about the families who lived in Enfield 100 years ago. Meet at Hanks Meadow parking lot. Bring water and dress for the weather. All ages welcome. Dogs not allowed on any Quabbin property.

Monday, October 13

Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples Day. Federal, state, and municipal offices and departments are closed.

Tuesday, October 14

First thing: While it’s not Paxton, this will affect those who use Route 56 and/or Marshall Street. Starting today, the intersection of Marshall Street and Route 56 will change from a 2-way stop sign intersection to a 4-way stop sign intersection. 

8:30 am: Bus trip to Aqua Turf in Plantsville, CT sponsored by Friends of Paxton Council on Aging to enjoy A Tribute to the Legends of Old Vegas. Nonrefundable ticket cost (unless ticket can be resold) is $129 per person and includes bus fare, meal, and show. For information, email Deb Grensavitch at [email protected]. 

9:30 am: Friends of the Council on Aging meet at the Paxton Senior Center.

12 pm: Make a felted mushroom at the Rutland Senior Center. No experience needed. $15 for non-Friends, $13 for Friends members, due at RSVP. Call or visit the Center to reserve.

2:30 pm: Holden Veterans and American Legion meeting every second Tuesday of the month at Holden Senior Center. Contact Doug Harvey, Commander, Post 42 at 508-450-9965.

3-6 pm: Holden Farmers Market brings fresh produce and locally made products every Tuesday through the end of October. Route 31 North across from the Gale Free Library.

6:30 pm: Cooking Club – 5 Ingredients or Less at Gale Free Library. What’s your go-to dish with five or fewer ingredients? Share your favorite dish and recipe and hear other choices. Registration required.

6:30 pm: Learn how to write in cursive for ages 8 and up. Rutland Free Public Library in the Children’s Room.

6:30-8:30 pm: Needle Felting Mushrooms with Laura Darrow hosted by Paxton MA Garden Club at the Paxton Senior Center. All materials included. $20 members, $25 nonmembers. Advanced signup and payment required through the club’s website.

Wednesday, October 15

1 pm: History at Play presents “I Now Pronounce You Lucy Stone.” At the Holden Senior Center, funded by the Holden Women’s Club and the Friends Holden Council on Aging. Register at the Center or call them.

6-7 pm: Ukulele Group at Gale Free Library. New to advanced players welcome. If you’re new to the group, contact the Reference Desk to let them know you’re coming.

6:30 pm: Holden Override discussion: at the Holden Town Hall. The select board, finance committee, Holden representatives to both regional school districts, the town manager and the Wachusett Regional School District superintendent will meet to discuss what an override is, the process of passing one, and why Holden anticipates needing one for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting will not decide whether to have an override or the amount it would need to be. This is to educate people on the basics and the needs. 

Thursday, October 16

9 am: Coffee and presents “Overview of the Recently Passed Tax Legislation” at the Holden Senior Center. James O’Malley, CPA, and Ted Tamburro will present and discuss this timely topic. Treats and beverages provided. Register at the Center or call them.

10:30 am-noon: The Craft of Writing Workshop with Jennifer Freed “The Familiar and the Foreign.” Online via Zoom. Looks at writing that invites readers to see a place from an unfamiliar perspective. Registration required by calling the Gale Free Library.

11 am: Make a Halloween Ghost Wreath with Lights at Rutland Senior Center. Cost is $15, which includes all materials. Register at the Center or call them. Payment due at sign-up.

11 am: Birds of Prey with Wingmasters, which rehabilitates injured birds, to be held at the Paxton Senior Center. Learn about New England’s birds of prey such as hawks, falcons, and owls. Program includes live, native birds.

12 noon: Local cultural council grant applications for Holden, Paxton and Rutland are due today online by noon. Go to massculturalcouncil.org to learn more and how to apply. Read a more detailed account in this WFP issue.

1:30 pm: Fall Wooden Pumpkin Board at the Holden Senior Center. No painting experience needed. All materials supplied. Registration runs through Oct. 8. Each participant can only register themselves in person with $20 cash. Holden Senior Center.

1:30 pm: Handmade Bow Making Class at Rutland Senior Center. Class is free but you will need three full rolls of 2.5-3 inch wired ribbon, which can be purchased from the instructor for $10 a roll or bring your own. At the end of the class you will have made three bows and gained the skill to make your own.

4-5:30 pm: Teen Dungeons and Dragons Club begins at Richards Memorial Library. Gather weekly to play this fantasy, table-top, role-playing game led by teens and for teens ages 12-18. Create characters to go on imaginary adventures led by a Dungeon Master. Whether you’re an experienced player or new to the game, you are welcome!

4:20 pm: Graphic Novel Book Club for Grades 4+ at Gale Free Library. Read and discuss Eerie Tales from the School of Screams by Graham Annable and learn about making comics. Registration opened 9/25. After you register, visit the Children’s Room to borrow a copy of the graphic novel.

Friday, October 17

10 am: Kidding Around with Yoga with Miss Nicole, ages 2-5 at Gale Free Library. Little ones learn basic poses with lots of music movement and literacy too. Email [email protected].

6:45 pm: Doors open for Hope Lives Here fundraiser: Grades K-5, join HLH at Wachusett Regional High School’s cafeteria for a frightfully fun movie night showing of “Hotel Transylvania.” Costumes are a must and bring blankets and camp chairs for this drive-in movie style event. Tix are $5 per adult and $3 per child. All funds raised benefit the Dandelion Scholarship. Tix available at HLH.org.

Saturday, October 18

8 am-1 pm: Yard waste drop off accepted at Rutland’s Department of Public Works. Also on November 1.

12-1 pm: Mornings with Maggie at Gale Free Library. Brighten your day with Maggie and her person Kelly. This therapy team is certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. 

2-4 pm: Scavenger Hunt at the Wood House, 232 Main St., Rutland, hosted by the Rutland Historical Society. Join this fun scavenger hunt and discover interesting facts about Rutland’s history as you search their collection of artifacts for clues to locate the highlighted items. All are welcome. Light refreshments will be served.

Sunday, October 19

1-4 pm: The Holden CROP Hunger Walk will start with check-in at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 346 Shrewsbury St. This family-friendly annual event supports the global hunger-fighting efforts of CROP Hunger Walk and Church World Service. They are looking for walkers – and donors. Learn more at www.immanuelholden.org

4:30-6:30 pm: Annual Trunk or Treat hosted by Paxton Center School’s PTO at the school’s parking lot. Bring the kids to this fun event. Rain date October 26.

Monday, October 20

1 pm: Fire Safety Awareness at the Holden Senior Center. Zach Algarin, firefighter and public safety education coordinator at the Holden Fire Department. will give a presentation on how to raise fire safety awareness. October is Fire Prevention month. Register at the Center or call them.

Tuesday, October 21

October 21-24: The Rutland Center will close at 1 pm these four days; there will be no afternoon activities.

3-6 pm: Holden Farmers Market brings fresh produce and locally made products every Tuesday through the end of October. Route 31 North across from the Gale Free Library.

3:30-4:30 pm: LEGO Challenge at Richards Memorial Library: take the challenge or build from your imagination. All materials provided. Completed projects will be displayed at the library.

3:30-5:30 pm: Dungeons and Dragons One-Shot for Grades 6+ at Gale Free Library. Join the party for a first level adventure! This season is ideal for new or advanced players. Registration opens Oct. 14.

6:30-7:15pm: Nature’s Real Vampires: Leeches, Bats and other Spooky Creatures! At Richards Memorial Library. Just in time for Halloween, join Hands on Nature to learn about real animals that scare and spook all year round. Learn about leeches and bats and make a fun Halloween craft to take home. Geared to families with children ages 4-12.

Wednesday, October 22

10:30 am: Flower Arranging presented by Sam’s Stems at the Paxton Senior Center. Learn how to create a seasonal arrangement with dried flowers that can be displayed, tucked away, and then reused each year. RSVP by October 15. 

10:30-11:15 am: Outdoor Story & Playtime at Richards Memorial Library. Today and 10/29 (No Storytime 10/15). Join us for healthy outdoor play and learning in the library yard, or fun indoors during inclement weather. We sing songs, go on scavenger hunts, tell stories, create, and play. For young children and their caregivers. Check website for updates.

4:20 pm: Spellbook Craft for ages 7+ at Gale Free Library. Ever learn a new spell and have nowhere to write it down? Decorate your own spellbook with Library Wizard Mr. McDonough. Registration opens Oct. 15.

6:30 pm: An Evening of Irish Harp and Vocals with Aine Minogue at Gale Free Library. The award-winning harpist, singer, arranger and composer with a dozen solo albums returns to Holden. Registration required.

Thursday, October 23

9 am-12:30 pm: If your birthday is in October, stop by the Rutland Senior Center and enjoy a piece of birthday cake. Enjoy your special day!

10:30 am: Shoe Talk with Katie Lund at Paxton Senior Center. Get all the information debunking common myths about footwear and orthotics. Q&A follows. Sponsored by Choice Physical Therapy. 

1:30-3:30 pm: Flu clinic at the Holden Senior Center. Registration required at the office or call them. Bring your insurance card and Medicare Card.

4:20-5:50 pm: Cuts and Bruises Stage Makeup with Little Spark Theater for ages 10+ at Gale Free Library. Dive into the world of stage makeup with some gruesome wounds in this special Halloween class. Registration opens Oct. 16.

6:30-8 pm: Welcome to the Graveyard with the Graveyard Girls at Richards Memorial Library. This 90-minute illustrated “virtual tour” chronicles cemetery art, history, and symbolism. From colonial New England burial grounds of the 1600s and 1700s, through the nationwide rural cemetery movement of the 19th century and into 21st century locations, the program examines why we have cemeteries and gravestones.

7 pm: The Rutland Bylaw Committee will hold a public information session at the Rutland Free Public Library (lower level) to review the proposed stormwater bylaw, which will be discussed and voted on at the November 20 Special Town Meeting. The EPA issued an Administrative Order that Rutland must adopt a stormwater bylaw no later than Dec. 31, 2025, to comply with the town’s Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System. 

Friday, October 24

10-11 am: Books and Blankies with Community Connections at Richards Memorial Library for babies birth to 24 months and their caregivers. Thank you to Wachusett Community Connections for providing this program.

1 pm: Felted Fall Scene at Holden Senior Center. All materials provided. Each person can only register themselves in person with $25 cash. Registration begins 10/7 through 10/17 or until full. 

5-9 pm: Parents’ night out hosted by Paxton Recreation. Halloween theme, held at Paxton Senior Center. Parents - drop off the kids and go out to have a nice dinner. $20 per child, maximum $50 per family.

Saturday, October 25

9 am-noon: Bottle and can drive on the Paxton Common organized by Paxton Boy Scout Troop 105. 

9 am-2 pm: Craft & Vendor Fair at Central Tree Middle School, 99 Rutland Heights Way, sponsored by the Rutland Historical Society, Central Tree Middle School PTO, and Wachu Makin’. Free admission. Email rutlandmahistoricalsociety.org to reserve a table or for details. This also kicks off the annual Festival of Trees, which the town has celebrated for 25 years!

10 am-2 pm: Monthly book sale at the Rutland Free Public Library open to all and hosted by the Friends of the Rutland Public Library. The book room is located on the lower level of the library and is full of books, music CDs and DVDs. Reasonable prices and discounts if you buy a bag full. Any children who attend the sale can choose five books to take home for free.

11 am-1 pm: Halloween Kid’s Fest at Rutland Free Public Library.

4-7 pm: A civic engagement for Paxton residents: Cornhole & Collaboration at Soccer Asylum, 603 Pleasant St., sponsored by Paxton Charter Review Committee, the Paxton Economic Development Committee and The Paxton Zoning Board of Appeals. Meet your neighbors, local business owners, elected officials, and town committees, boards, and employees. There will be information on town initiatives that will shape the town’s future. 

Monday, October 27

10 am: Mindfulness Meditation with Marie Clemente at the Holden Senior Center. Learn tools, practices, and techniques to relieve stress. $5 fee. Register at the Center or call them. 

10 am-12 pm: Blood pressure and glucose clinic at the Holden Senior Cener. Free for all. 

10 am-12 pm: SNAP Pre-Screening Program with Miriam Nyante of the Regional Board of Health at the Holden Senior Center. She will discuss the process and provide free screening for eligibility.

1 pm: Movie Monday at the Holden Senior Center with popcorn and beverage. Register at the office or call them.

Tuesday, October 28

11 am: Scam alert! Presentation at the Rutland Senior Center. The Worcester County District Attorney’s Office will present awareness and tips so you don’t fall prey to scammers’ tactics. Learn about the kinds of scams that are active in the area. 

3:30-4:30 pm: Nex Playground (Nex is canceled 10/14) at Richards Memorial Library. For ages 5+. Play this movement-based gaming device that combines physical activity with interactive play and fun.

3-6 pm: Holden Farmers Market’s final day of the 2025 season. Route 31 North across from the Gale Free Library.

4:20 pm: Bead Skeleton Keychain for ages 7+ at Gale Free Library. This keychain is sure to rattle your bones! Registration opens Oct. 21.

7-8 pm: Friends of Richards Memorial Library board meeting.

Wednesday, October 29

1:30 pm: Alstromeria Lily Topiary arrangement workshop with Debbie of DiMeco’s at the Holden Senior Center. All materials provided. Registration begins 10/7 and continues through 10/21 or until full. Each person must register themselves in person with $35 cash. 

3-4 pm: Larry the Librarian Day at Richards Memorial Library. Pun contest, watch Larry the Librarian’s Pun videos and meet and greet with Larry.

6-7:30 pm: Art Club: Meditative Art Making processes and the final Art Club of the Year. At Gale Free Library. Quiet music and all the art supplies you need: watercolor paints and paper, brushes, pastels, and more. Call to RSVP. The Club will be on hiatus until after the New Year. 

Thursday, October 30

2:30 pm: Write Fest: a creative writing workshop at the Holden Senior Center with the “Write On” group. Poetry, mystery, and memoirs will be read with an opportunity for an open mic. Register at the office or call them.

Friday, October 31

9:30-11:30 am: Halloween costume fun at the Rutland Senior Center. Wear your best costume and enjoy treats and maybe some tricks. Prizes for the “Best” and lots of fun.

10 am: Halloween Scavenger Hunt with Community Connections for ages 2-5 on the lawn of Gale Free Library. Join them for a silly, spooky Halloween hunt. No registration required.

12:15 pm: Halloween Bingo at Paxton Senior Center. Denis is calling the numbers and there will be a prize competition if you come in a costume. Prizes and refreshments served. Early lunch is available. RSVP by calling the Center. 

4-6 pm: 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat on the Town Common, hosted by Rutland public safety departments. Set-up 3 pm. Businesses, local organizations, and town departments are welcome to participate. If you want to join in the fun, see the online Central Tree Times to complete the registration form. Candy donations for the celebration can be dropped off 24/7 in the Rutland Police Department lobby.

Saturday, November 1

11 am: Fall clean-up and tree pruning demonstration, Holden Community Garden, 175 Highland St.

6-9 pm: Sock Hop Boo Wop 50s Dance at the Rutland Sportsman Club, 75 Pleasantdale Rd. The Rutland Events Committee hosts this 50s Decade dance! Wear your 50s inspired outfit and enjoy delicious food and drinks.

Monday, November 3

1:30 pm: Legacy Matters: Passing on More than Valuables with Pamela Reidy at the Holden Senior Center. A special introductory workshop that will explore how to share your life and wisdom. They’ll talk about “legacy documents” and creative ways to capture memories, values, and love you want to pass along to your family. Registration required at the office or call them.

Wednesday, November 5

10 am: Schoolhouse Café at the Paxton Senior Center. Come enjoy coffee, a morning snack, and conversations with friends old and new at the Cafe. This month, join the Holiday Bake-off! Enter your favorite holiday bread, cupcakes, cookies, scones, or muffins and share the recipe. Entries will vie for prizes after sampling by everyone at the Café. If you want to participate, call Cindy at the Center. 

4-4:40 pm: Graphic Novel Club for Ages 8-12 at Richards Memorial Library. Visit the library at the beginning of each month to pick up a featured graphic novel along with an activity or small treat. Read and enjoy! If you can, join other graphic novel fans the first Wednesday of each month, 4-4:40pm, for discussion and fun activities related to the book. The Club’s next in-person meeting is Nov. 5. Register online.

Thursday, November 6

The warrant for Rutland’s November 20 Special Town Meeting will be posted no later than today on the town’s website and in town buildings.

9:30 am: In honor of Veteran’s Day, the Holden Senior Center will have an event with entertainment, snacks and beverages. Register at the office or call the Center.

10 am-1 pm: Scam prevention and safety symposium at the Rutland Senior Center. Town police, fire and other departments will attend. Call the Center for more information.

Friday, November 7

1 pm: Create a Thanksgiving Turkey Pin at Holden Senior Center with fabric and simple hand sewing. All materials provided. Registration begins 10/15 through 10/29 or until full. Each person must register themselves  in person with $5 cash at the office.

6-8 pm: Family Bingo night at Paxton Center School Café hosted by Paxton Recreation. $5 a card.

Saturday, November 8

9 am-1 pm: Hazardous household product collection: Wachusett Earthday (aka Wachusett Recycling Center), 131 Raymond Huntington Highway. Will collect household hazardous products only today. The rest of the site including the ReUse Building will be closed. Up to 3 gallons or pounds $30; over 3 up to 10 gallons or pounds $60; over 10 up to 25 gallons or pounds $100. For more information call 978-464-2854 or email wachusettearthday.org

Tuesday, November 11

Veterans’ Day. Federal, state, and municipal offices and departments are closed.

Wednesday, November 12

The Greendale Choir honors Veterans’ Day with a performance at the Paxton Senior Center. Details to follow.

Thursday November 13

6-8 pm: Lecture: Linen from Flax Seed to Woven Textile with Jane Bridgeman sponsored by Paxton MA Garden Club at Rutland Free Public Library. This illustrated talk follows linen from flax seed to woven textile including experience growing and processing the plant. Free and open to the public.

6:30 pm: Winter Porch Flower Pot workshop with Bemis Farms at the Paxton Senior Center, hosted by the Paxton Woman’s Club open to all. Come at 6 pm to learn about the Club. $40 for PWC members; $45 for nonmembers. Make checks payable to PWC and mail to Kathy Card, 16 Red Oak St., Paxton, 01612.