Community News
Local news about your town and neighbors
Reading Recreation Division announces free summer concert series
The Reading Recreation Division is hosting a free summer concert series this July and August, bringing live music to Memorial Park on Sunday evenings.
Town of Reading shares safety tips for a safe 4th of July
As families and friends gather to celebrate Independence Day this weekend, the Town of Reading is encouraging residents to keep safety top of mind throughout the holiday weekend.
Senior Property Tax Exemptions available for FY2027
As Reading enters Fiscal Year 2027, which runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, the Assessor’s Office is encouraging eligible senior taxpayers to apply for property tax exemptions.
Town Manager’s July Report: construction progress, state funding, and more
Reading’s Town Manager Jayne Wellman released a new report this month covering major construction milestones, state funding wins, budget planning, and community programming across town departments. Here’s a look at the highlights.
RMHS Girls Lacrosse Clinic returns next week
Reading Memorial High School’s coaching staff and players will host a four-day Girls Lacrosse Clinic this summer, giving young athletes a chance to build skills and confidence on the field ahead of the upcoming season.
Tram Nguyen Finishes Strongest Fundraising Quarter in Race for Sixth Congressional District
Fueled by multiple polls slowing her leading and a strong first debate performance, State Representative Tram Nguyen closed the second quarter of 2026 with her highest-yet fundraising totals.
Powered by Grassroots Momentum, Belsito Campaign Smashes Q2 Fundraising Goals
1200+ Unique donors contributed an average of $71
Poetry by Richard Perry: A Writers Tale
Our creative community is strongest when many voices are heard. If you feel inspired, please consider submitting your own work to The Reading Observer.
Reminder: automated trash and recycling collection begins next week
The Town of Reading is reminding residents that curbside trash and recycling collection will fully transition to automated collection starting Monday, July 6, 2026.
Reading Food Pantry expands summer hours for families with school-age children
With summer vacation underway, the Reading Food Pantry is offering extra support to local families whose children rely on free breakfast and lunch programs during the school year.
Heat Warning issued for Reading; cooling centers open through Thursday
The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for the Reading area, in effect from Wednesday, July 1, through Saturday, July 4.
FIND WALDO IN READING!
Local Businesses Join Forces in Beloved Annual Event Celebrating “Shop Local”
Fall Street Faire discontinued after nearly two decades
The Reading Rotary Club has announced it will no longer host the Reading Fall Street Faire, ending a nearly 20-year community tradition.
Three House Leaders Endorse Tram Nguyen for Congress
Today, Tram Nguyen’s campaign for Congress announced the endorsement of three key House leadership members, Speaker Pro Tempore Rep. Kate Hogan, Rep. Jack Lewis and Assistant Majority Leader Rep. Alice Peisch.
State Rep. Candidate Joe Markey Opposes Healey Push to Divert Pension Funds for Economic Development Grants
Candidate for State Representative Joe Markey (D - Lynnfield) called on legislators to reject Governor Maura Healey’s proposal to tap $50 to $100 million from the state’s pension system to fund economic development grants across the Commonwealth.
Local Elected Officials Across the 5th Middlesex Endorse Kate Lipper-Garabedian for State Senate
State Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian's campaign for the 5th Middlesex District State Senate seat has earned the support of 34 local elected officials across the District.
Reading’s senior property tax exemption program reauthorized for another three years
State House delegation secures timely passage of home rule petition for town.
Colonial Chorus Players brings John and Abigail Adams to life for America’s 250th
This July to commemorate the nation’s 250th, Colonial Chorus Players is honored to present My Dearest Friend, a new play about John and Abigail Adams by Peter Manos.
Representative Jones holding district office hours July 10 at Reading’s Pleasant Street Center
House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading) will be holding his monthly district office hours in Reading on Friday, July 10 from 10:15-11:15 a.m. at the Pleasant Street Center
Poetry by Richard Perry: Detours
Our creative community is strongest when many voices are heard. If you feel inspired, please consider submitting your own work to The Reading Observer.