As the holiday season comes to a close, organizers of Reading’s Adopt-a-Family (AAF) program reflected on another year of community generosity - one defined not only by the numbers served, but by heartfelt gratitude from families who received support.

More than 100 residents filled the basement Sanctuary of the First Congregational Church this week for Reading’s annual Hanukkah celebration - an evening centered on community, culture, and light. The event brought together families, local leaders, faith communities, and residents of all ages for music, prayer, food, and shared tradition.

The wait is over! The Holiday Homes Map is officially live, inviting residents to bundle up, grab a cup of cocoa, and experience the festive spirit created by neighbors across the community.

The event is still happening, but moved to inside the First Congressional Church of Reading, located at 25 Woburn Street in Reading.

On Saturday morning of the Festival of Trees, the Reading Public Library was filled with conversation, collaboration, and shared purpose as the Friends of Reading METCO hosted a Festival of Trees Brunch in the Library’s Community Room and Conference Room.

The Reading community is invited to come together in celebration of Hanukkah at the town’s 4th Annual Community Menorah Lighting, taking place on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at 5 pm on the Reading Town Common. This inclusive, family-friendly tradition provides neighbors with a meaningful and festive way to celebrate the Festival of Lights.

Whitelam Books is excited to host a Hanukkah Storytime on Sunday, December 14 at 3:00PM reading Eight Sweet Nights, A Festival of Lights: A Hanukkah Story by Charlotte Offsay, and Lost and Found Hanukkah by Joy Preble.

Reading families can once again share in a beloved holiday tradition as Reading Recreation launches its annual Letters to Santa program. Children are invited to drop off their custom letters to Santa Claus at the North Pole Express Mailbox, located just inside the Reading Recreation Office on the lower level of Town Hall.

Hundreds of residents gathered on the Reading Town Common on Sunday, November 30, to enjoy an afternoon of festive fun with neighbors ahead of the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Join Reading's Jewish community, neighbors, and friends for the 4th Annual Community Menorah Lighting on Sunday December 14 on the Reading Town Common.

The Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce will host the Reading Tree Lighting on the Town Common  on Sunday, November 3 from 2 – 4:30 PM in Downtown Reading.