Upcoming events.
Stay connected with what’s happening in our community! Check out the list below for upcoming events you won’t want to miss. From local meetings and town events, to educational workshops and public gatherings, there’s something for everyone.
Send us an email at tgregory@TheReadingObserver.com to add local events to the calendar.
Scroll down to explore highlights from past events and see what we’ve been up to!
Subsequent Town Meeting - Night 3
Date: Monday, November 17, 2025
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: Performing Arts Center at Reading Memorial High School (62 Oakland Road)
Watch
Youtube
Materials
November Blood Pressure Screening
Take a proactive step toward better health - stop by for a free, walk-in blood pressure screening with the Town Nurse.
Regular blood pressure monitoring is a simple but powerful way to protect your health. High blood pressure often has no noticeable symptoms but can increase your risk for serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.
Subsequent Town Meeting - Night 4
Date: Thursday, November 20, 2025
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: Performing Arts Center at Reading Memorial High School (62 Oakland Road)
Watch
Youtube
Materials
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Day is a time to gather with family and friends, share a meal, and reflect on the many things we’re grateful for. it’s a day to enjoy traditions old and new — from turkey dinners and football games to giving back and connecting with the community.
Select Board Meeting
Information will be updated when the agenda and packet are posted prior to the meeting.
Walker’s Brook Drive Kick-Off Meeting
The Town of Reading invites you to help shape the future of Walkers Brook Drive. We will share project updates, potential design alternatives, and next steps. Your input is key to guide this phase.
Select Board Meeting
Information will be updated when the agenda and packet are posted prior to the meeting.
Shop the Block
Celebrate local this holiday season! Come support your favorite downtown Reading businesses during Shop the Block 2025. Enjoy special promotions, festive cheer, and the chance to find unique gifts — all while supporting the small businesses that make our community thrive.
Festival of Trees
Our annual holiday fundraiser is a great family event! Visitors will be delighted and inspired by a winter wonderland of decorated holiday trees that are raffled off to lucky winners!
Decorated trees are donated by local families, businesses, organizations, and schools. With a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and themes to choose from, there is something for everyone.
Donors have decorated a tree as a family project, in memory of a loved one, to promote a cause, or to advertise their business.
Festival of Trees (Copy)
Our annual holiday fundraiser is a great family event! Visitors will be delighted and inspired by a winter wonderland of decorated holiday trees that are raffled off to lucky winners!
Decorated trees are donated by local families, businesses, organizations, and schools. With a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and themes to choose from, there is something for everyone.
Donors have decorated a tree as a family project, in memory of a loved one, to promote a cause, or to advertise their business.
Select Board Meeting
Information will be updated when the agenda and packet are posted prior to the meeting.
Chanukah
Chanukah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish celebration that honors the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Families light the menorah, enjoy traditional foods like latkes and sufganiyot, exchange gifts, and celebrate the triumph of light, faith, and perseverance.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day is a time of joy, reflection, and togetherness. It’s a day to gather with loved ones, exchange gifts, share festive meals, and embrace the spirit of generosity and peace that defines the holiday season.
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration of African American culture, heritage, and community observed from December 26 to January 1. Each day highlights one of the Seven Principles, including unity, self-determination, and creativity. The holiday is marked by candle lighting, reflection, music, and gatherings that honor family and cultural pride.
New Year's Day
New Year’s Day marks the start of a new year, a time for reflection, renewal, and celebration. Many people gather with family and friends to welcome new beginnings, set goals, and look ahead with hope and optimism. It’s a day to rest, recharge, and embrace the possibilities the year ahead may bring.
Martin Luther King Day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors the life and legacy of Dr. King, a leader in the American civil rights movement. It’s a day of reflection, service, and commitment to equality, justice, and community.
Holi
Holi, known as the Festival of Colors, is a joyful Hindu celebration marking the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. People gather to throw vibrant powders, dance, share sweets, and celebrate love, renewal, and community.
Easter
Easter celebrates renewal, hope, and joy. Many observe the day with worship services, family gatherings, and community events such as egg hunts and springtime festivities.
Local Election
Date: Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Time: 7:00 AM until 8:00 PM
Location: Hawkes Fieldhouse at Reading Memorial High School (82 Oakland Road)
Vote for candidates for Select Board, School Committee, Reading Municipal Lights Department (RMLD), Board of Library Trustees (BoLT), and Town Meeting Members.
Annual Town Meeting - Night 1
Join us for Reading Annual Town Meeting, where elected Town Meeting Members will discuss and vote on key issues shaping our community. This is your opportunity to stay informed and engaged in local governance!
Annual Town Meeting - Night 2
The Town of Reading will hold Night 3 of Town Meeting to cover any remaining topics not discussed during the first two nights. Town Meeting Members will continue deliberating and voting on important local matters.
Annual Town Meeting - Night 3
The Town of Reading will hold Night 3 of Town Meeting to cover any remaining topics not discussed during the first two nights. Town Meeting Members will continue deliberating and voting on important local matters.
Annual Town Meeting - Night 4
The Town of Reading will hold Night 3 of Town Meeting to cover any remaining topics not discussed during the first two nights. Town Meeting Members will continue deliberating and voting on important local matters.
Memorial Day
Memorial Day honors the brave men and women who lost their lives in military service to our nation. Communities come together to remember their sacrifice through ceremonies, parades, and acts of remembrance.
Juneteenth
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, marking the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in Texas learned of their freedom. It’s a day of celebration, reflection, and education about freedom and equality.
Independence Day
Independence Day celebrates the founding of the United States and the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Families and friends gather for parades, fireworks, and festivities that honor freedom and unity.
State Primary Election
Date: Tuesday, September 1, 2026
Time: 7:00 AM until 8:00 PM
Location: Hawkes Fieldhouse at Reading Memorial High School (62 Oakland Road)
Vote for candidates for senators and representatives.
Labor Day
Labor Day pays tribute to the achievements and contributions of American workers. It’s both a time to celebrate the nation’s workforce and enjoy a well-deserved day of rest marking the unofficial end of summer.
Indigenous Peoples' Day
Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors the history, cultures, and resilience of Native peoples. It’s a time to recognize their enduring contributions and to reflect on the importance of truth and reconciliation.
Halloween
Halloween brings a spirit of fun and creativity as children and families dress in costumes, enjoy treats, and celebrate with festive decorations and events around town.
Diwali
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a major Hindu celebration symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Families and communities gather to light diyas, share sweets, exchange gifts, and celebrate joy, renewal, and hope for the year ahead.
Subsequent Town Meeting - Night 1
Date: Monday, November 9, 2026
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: Performing Arts Center at Reading Memorial High School (62 Oakland Road)
Information will be updated when the warrant is posted.
Subsequent Town Meeting - Night 2
Date: Thursday, November 12, 2026
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: Performing Arts Center at Reading Memorial High School (62 Oakland Road)
Information will be updated when the warrant is posted.
Subsequent Town Meeting - Night 3
Date: Monday, November 16, 2026
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: Performing Arts Center at Reading Memorial High School (62 Oakland Road)
Information will be updated when the warrant is posted.
Subsequent Town Meeting - Night 4
Date: Thursday, November 19, 2025
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: Performing Arts Center at Reading Memorial High School (62 Oakland Road)
Information will be updated when the warrant is posted.
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, share a meal, and express gratitude for the blessings of the past year. It’s a day of reflection, generosity, and community.
Chanukah
Chanukah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish celebration commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. Families light the menorah, share traditional foods, play games, and celebrate hope, faith, and perseverance.
Christmas Day
Christmas celebrates joy, giving, and togetherness. Many observe the day with festive traditions, decorations, and gatherings with loved ones to share the spirit of the season.
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration of African American culture, community, and heritage. Observed from December 26 to January 1, it honors seven guiding principles—including unity, self-determination, and creativity—through gatherings, reflection, and joy.
November Blood Pressure Screening
Take a proactive step toward better health - stop by for a free, walk-in blood pressure screening with the Town Nurse.
Regular blood pressure monitoring is a simple but powerful way to protect your health. High blood pressure often has no noticeable symptoms but can increase your risk for serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.
RMHS Catch Me If You Can Musical
Get ready for a high-flying adventure as the RMHS Drama Club proudly presents Catch Me If You Can: The Musical, based on the hit DreamWorks film and the incredible true story that inspired it! Performances will run from November 7th-16th, at the Endslow Performing Arts Center at RMHS.
Subsequent Town Meeting - Night 2
Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: Performing Arts Center at Reading Memorial High School (62 Oakland Road)
Watch
Materials
November Blood Pressure Screening
Take a proactive step toward better health - stop by for a free, walk-in blood pressure screening with the Town Nurse.
Regular blood pressure monitoring is a simple but powerful way to protect your health. High blood pressure often has no noticeable symptoms but can increase your risk for serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.
Veteran's Day Ceremony
Join the Town of Reading in honoring the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans at the annual Veterans Day Ceremony. The event will take place at Memorial Park, featuring remarks from local officials, a wreath-laying ceremony, and participation from community groups. All residents are invited to attend and pay tribute to those who have served and continue to serve our country.
Subsequent Town Meeting - Night 1
Date: Monday, November 10, 2025
Time: 7:30 pm
Location: Performing Arts Center at Reading Memorial High School (62 Oakland Road)
Watch
Materials
Specific Town Meeting Information, including Instructional Motions.
Select Board Office with Karen Rose-Gillis
Join Select Board Member Karen Gately-Herrick at her office hours on Monday November 10 at the Pleasant Street Center from 12:15PM-1:15PM. Come by to ask questions, share your thoughts, or just say hello!
Puzzle & Board Game Swap
Do you love puzzles and games? Now's your chance to refresh your collection! Trade your old favorites for exciting new ones at the library, where you can snag a free puzzle or game!
RMHS Catch Me If You Can Musical
Get ready for a high-flying adventure as the RMHS Drama Club proudly presents Catch Me If You Can: The Musical, based on the hit DreamWorks film and the incredible true story that inspired it! Performances will run from November 7th-16th, at the Endslow Performing Arts Center at RMHS.
Reading Vaccine Clinic
Date: Friday, November 7, 2025
Time: 2:00 - 5:00 pm
Location: Coolidge Middle School (89 Birch Meadow Drive)
Select Board Meeting
Public Hearing: Discuss and vote on Fiscal 26 Tax Classification
Discuss and vote on Mystic Regional Emergency Planning Committee Proclamation
Discuss and vote on Proclamation for Special Education Parent Advisory Committee (SEPAC) Awareness Month
Public Hearing: Discuss and vote on Transfer of Annual Wine and Malt Liquor License for Bangkok Spice LLC d/b/a Bangkok Spice, located at 76 Haven Street
Discuss and potential vote on procurement options for the Pleasant Street Center
Discuss and vote on Amendment to Select Board Policy Section 3.2.2.14: Hours of Operation (Permitted Sale of Alcohol)
Discuss and vote MBTA letter
November 1st Select Board Retreat Debrief
Select Board Office Hours with Melissa Murphy
Join Select Board Member Melissa Murphy at her office hours on Tuesday November 4 in the Town Hall Select Board Room from 6:00PM-7:00PM. Come by to ask questions, share your thoughts, or just say hello!
LiveWires: The Death and Life of Lary Benson
Join us for a screening of the 1954 Westinghouse Studio One production of "The Death and Life of Larry Benson."
Brewfest hosted by Women's League of Reading
The Women’s League of Reading is to host Brewfest at Lord Hobo Brewing Co., with all proceeds benefitting the Reading Food Pantry.
Select Board Retreat
Welcome and introductions
Role of the Facilitator
What do members hope to accomplish?
Barriers to success
Roles and responsibilities
Goals
Next steps
Snow Shoveling Bylaw Public Forum
Join the Town of Reading Bylaw Committee for a public forum on the proposed Snow Shoveling Bylaw. This is an opportunity for residents to learn more, share feedback, and be part of the discussion. Please view the current bylaw here.
Connected Reading
Whether you're a new resident, remember the days of The Atlantic, or arrived sometime in between, you are welcome to Connected Reading: An Open House for Our Community!
Downtown Trick or Treat
Downtown Reading businesses will be ready to welcome trick-or-treaters with plenty of candy and fun. Look for storefronts decorated with a pumpkin to know who’s participating. Don’t forget to stop by the Pleasant Street Center, Police Department, and Town Hall for extra goodies.
Select Board Meeting on MBTA Turnback Track project
The Town of Reading Select Board is hosting a special public meeting at the PAC for the Reading Turnback Committee and MBTA representatives to present on the MBTA’s Turnback Track project. This is an opportunity for residents to learn and ask questions about the upcoming project.
Eastern Gateway Community Meeting
The Town is hosting a Community Meeting at the Reading Public Library on Monday October 27th at 6:00 pm to share the findings and community feedback on the Eastern Gateway – an area along Walkers Brook Drive under consideration for new zoning and growth opportunities.
2nd Annual Mid-Autumn Moon Festival
The Annual Reading Mid-Autumn Moon Festival is a free community event that is part of a Culture Immersion Series to foster inclusion and promote local businesses and organizations.
Select Board Meeting
Fiscal Year 26 Tax Classification preview
Discussion and potential vote to support the Local Initiative Program Application for Local Action Units to be submitted by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities by BLVD Reading, LLC for a lot of land at 258-262 Main Street, Reading
Discuss and vote on amendments to Select Board communication policy, Section 1.4: Addition of Social Media and Cell Phone sections
Review and vote on the Finance Committee’s request to receive a free review of Town Financial Policies from the Division of Local Services Financial Management Resources Bureau (FMRB)
Discuss and vote to instruct Town Manager to explore a Friday and Saturday only valet parking license agreement
Executive Session Purpose 2 & Purpose 3: To conduct strategy discussions with respect to collective bargaining and collective bargaining with the facilities union.
October Blood Pressure Screening
Take a proactive step toward better health - stop by for a free, walk-in blood pressure screening with the Town Nurse.
Regular blood pressure monitoring is a simple but powerful way to protect your health. High blood pressure often has no noticeable symptoms but can increase your risk for serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.
Electronics Recycling Event
Bring your unwanted electronics and small appliances for safe, responsible recycling. Fees apply for most items ($5-$40 each). Some items, including bikes, phones, tablets, and media, are free to drop off (donations appreciated).
Town Forest Buckthorn Pull
Join community members as they work to remove the invasive species, Glossy Buckthorn. These efforts will help protect the environment, as the invasive species can cause ecological damage by outcompeting the native plants and does not provide value to native animals, birds, and insects.
Dinner with Dems
The RDTC hopes folks will join us for our upcoming annual fundraising dinner! Friday Oct. 17, Old South Church in Reading, 6-8pm. Pasta, meatballs, salad, desserts. Suggested donation of $20 per person, payable at the door by cash or check. There will also be a silent auction, so come prepared to bid on some lovely items! In addition, we expect visits from State Rep. Rich Haggerty and State Sen. Jason Lewis, for some updates from Beacon Hill. We hope to see you there!!
Reading Vaccine Clinic
Date: Friday, October 17, 2025
Time: 2:00 - 5:00 pm
Location: Coolidge Middle School (89 Birch Meadow Drive)
October Blood Pressure Screening
Take a proactive step toward better health - stop by for a free, walk-in blood pressure screening with the Town Nurse.
Regular blood pressure monitoring is a simple but powerful way to protect your health. High blood pressure often has no noticeable symptoms but can increase your risk for serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.