By Jerry Filmore
WORCESTER, Mass. — The Village Worcester will mark its five-year anniversary with a community celebration scheduled for Saturday, May 9, 2026.
The event, titled “Rooted & Rising: Looking Back to Continue Looking Forward,” will take place from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Girls Inc. Worcester, located at 125 Providence Street.
The celebration recognizes five years since The Village Worcester reopened its space at 4 King Street in May 2021. According to information shared by the organization, the reopening followed months of preparation and has since grown into a space focused on community connection, cultural expression, and local engagement.
Organizers describe the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on the relationships and work developed over the past five years while also looking ahead to the future. The theme “Rooted & Rising” centers on honoring past experiences while continuing to build on them.
For What’s Up Worcester, The Village Worcester also holds a special place in the organization’s own story. When What’s Up Worcester was getting started in 2022, The Village Worcester was its first office space, located upstairs in the far-left room at 4 King Street. It was one of the first places where What’s Up Worcester began building its presence in the community.
Over time, What’s Up Worcester hosted and supported several community efforts connected to that space, including its Back to School Bash and Woo CommuniTree event, alongside Woo Fridges and other local organizations. Those moments helped shape the early identity of What’s Up Worcester and connected the platform more deeply with residents, families, and community partners.
Editor’s Note:
The Village Worcester has been more than a building or event space for What’s Up Worcester. It was one of the first places that gave us room to grow, connect, and become known in the community. We have seen firsthand the hard work, dedication, and care that Parlee, Sha-Asia, and the team have poured into that space and into Worcester.
Their encouragement meant more than they may know. Without their support and words of encouragement, What’s Up Worcester may not be where it is today. For that, we are grateful. The Village Worcester deserves its flowers.
Community members are invited to attend the anniversary event and participate in the celebration. Tickets and contributions are available through the event page on Givebutter.
Event details are as follows:
Rooted & Rising: Looking Back to Continue Looking Forward
Saturday, May 9, 2026
12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
125 Providence Street, Worcester
The Village Worcester describes the milestone as a reflection of five years of community-centered work and connection. The event is open to residents who want to celebrate, support, or learn more about the organization’s ongoing efforts.y, May 9, 2026, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Girls Inc. Worcester, 125 Providence Street. The event marks the five-year anniversary of The Village Worcester and includes an opportunity for community members to attend or contribute.
What is not yet known: Full event programming details and expected attendance.
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