As 2025 comes to a close, the Reading Food Pantry is expressing deep gratitutde for the volunteers, supporters, and community members who helped make another year of service possible. In a year marked by rising need, Executive Director Simone Payment shared a heartfelt message reflecting on the organization’s impact and outlining exciting plans for the year ahead.

With the holiday season upon us, many Reading residents may find themselves looking to dispose of broken string lights, worn-out extension cords, used holiday light nets, or leftover wrapping materials.

December is recognized as International Sharps Injury Prevention Awareness Month, an opportunity to educate communities about the safe handling and disposal of needles and other sharps. Improper disposal poses serious hazards to public health workers, custodial staff, sanitation teams, and community members.

Our creative community is strongest when many voices are heard. If you feel inspired, please consider submitting your own work to The Reading Observer.

The Game Changers Media Series begins with a powerful evening dedicated to basketball legend and civil rights icon Bill Russell on Thursday, January 22, from 7:00 – 9:00 pm at the Reading Public Library Community Room.

The Town of Reading is urging residents to think twice before flushing wipes, even those marketed as “flushable,” as part of an ongoing effort to protect the community’s wastewater infrastructure.

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.

December marks National Impaired Driving Awareness Month, a time when communities across the country come together to raise awareness about the deadly consequences of driving under the influence. As holiday gatherings and year-end celebrations fill our calendars, it becomes more important to plan and make safe decisions.

Our creative community is strongest when many voices are heard. If you feel inspired, please consider submitting your own work to The Reading Observer.

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 Reading Public Schools community received bittersweet news this week as School Committee Chair Shawn Brandt announced that Dr. Milaschewski will step down as Superintendent at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 school year.

RCTV Studios has announced several organizational updates as it enters a new chapter of leadership, focused on continuity, transparency, and continued service to the Reading 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.

Our creative community is strongest when many voices are heard. If you feel inspired, please consider submitting your own work to The Reading Observer.

On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, the Reading Select Board voted 5-0 to adopt a Human Rights Resolution, formally affirming the Town’s commitment to dignity, inclusion, and equal protection for all residents. The vote marked the conclusion of a process that began nearly eight years ago, when the resolution was first submitted to the Select Board in January 2017.

The Town of Reading is pleased to announce that applications and gardener agreements for the 2026 Community Gardening Season will be available beginning January 1, 2026. Whether you are an experienced gardener or planting for the first time, all community members are encouraged to take part in this growing season.

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.

The Reading Recreation Division is excited to announce that registration for the 2025 Winter & Spring programs will open on Thursday, December 11th, at 8:00 am. With a wide variety of activities designed for children, teens, and adults, this year’s seasonal offerings provide something for everyone looking to learn new skills, stay active, or try a fun new hobby.

Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) and its Board of Commissioners (Board) have announced that Jason Small will take the helm as general manager effective January 2, 2026.