West African, Caribbean drumming workshop coming to library

WENDELL — A Gaia Roots interactive performance and drumming workshop will be held at the Wendell Free Library, 7 Wendell Depot Road, on Wednesday, July 10, from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.

This interactive, family-friendly presentation will feature West African and Caribbean drumming and singing instruction. Participants should bring a drum or percussion instrument to join in, though there will be a limited number of instruments available for public use.

The program, which is supported in part by a grant from the Wendell Cultural Council, is free to attend, though donations are welcome. For more information, email full_circle_o@yahoo.com or visit tamarackhollow.com.

Wendell Free Library plans two events this month

WENDELL — The Wendell Free Library has planned a stone circle for July 12 and a West African drumming workshop for teenagers and adults on July 26.

The stone circle, set for 6:30 p.m., will feature the band Zydeco Connection, with a mix of zydeco, waltzes, two-steps, blues, boogie-woogie and a little swing. People are invited to bring a blanket or chair and a picnic dinner if they would like. The concert will take place at the Wendell Meetinghouse in the event of rain.

The West African drumming workshop, also at 6:30 p.m., will be offered by Jafar Manselle and the Wendell Warriors. This is a free program and drums will be provided. This program is supported in part by a grant by the Wendell Cultural Council.

July 12: Children’s Night on the bandstand

ORANGE — The Orange Community Band, under the direction of Stephanie Parker, will present its Children’s Night concert on Friday, July 12, at the bandstand in Butterfield Park at 7 p.m.

Children’s Night traditionally includes balloons and other treats for kids, including a march around the bandstand.

The concert will begin with the national anthem and will include several march selections. Other selections being considered for Children’s Night include “The 3-Minute Nutcracker,” “Jungle Dance,” “Show Stopper,” “Happy” and “The Bare Necessities,” as well as selections from “Hairspray,” “Frozen 2,” “Encanto,” “Jurassic Park,” “The Little Mermaid” and more. Programs are always subject to change.

Concerts will continue on Fridays at 7 p.m. through Aug. 2. The Salvation Army van will provide refreshments. Proceeds are used to send children to summer camp.

1794 Meetinghouse presents Christine Ohlman and Rebel Montez

NEW SALEM — The 1794 Meetinghouse at 26 South Main St. will present roots rock and blues by Christine Ohlman and Rebel Montez on Saturday, July 13, at 7:30 p.m.

Ohlman is a longtime vocalist with the Saturday Night Live Band whose latest CD, “The Deep End,” was honored on five national Top 10 lists.

Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 13 to 17. Children ages 12 and under will be admitted for free. Tickets can be purchased online at 1794meetinghouse.org/meetinghouse-events/christine-ohlman-2024 or at the door.

Second annual Hear & Tell returns to Historical Society

ORANGE — The Orange Historical Society invites storytellers and audience members alike to reserve their spots for the second annual Hear & Tell of fascinating true stories of Orange on Aug. 2.

Society officials decided to bring the event back annually, given the success of last year’s pilot Hear & Tell, which featured personal accounts ranging from the otherworldly to the down-to-earth. Due to potentially intense subject matter, this event is open to mature persons specifically.

The 90-minute storytelling session is slated for Friday, Aug. 2, beginning at 7 p.m. at 41 North Main St. Storytelling will be followed by a social half-hour serving complimentary refreshments.

While special storytelling experience is not necessary, advance reservations are required and can be made by calling Ann Reed at 978 544-3864. Admission is free, though donations would be gratefully accepted.

Volunteers sought for North Quabbin Garlic and Arts Festival

ORANGE — The North Quabbin Garlic and Arts Festival is actively seeking volunteers for the 26th annual event on Sept. 28 and 29.

According to the festival’s website, volunteers help direct parking, welcome guests, collect admissions, oversee recycling projects, help out as stage hands and more. There are two ways in which to volunteer at the festival: by volunteering as an individual or by putting together a team.

To learn more or to sign up to volunteer, visit garlicandarts.org/volunteer-signup.

Event attendees can begin buying tickets online starting Sept. 1. The festival will have more than 100 exhibitors with art, farm-fresh products and food, healing arts and more. Three stages will feature music, performance and spoken word. General admission is $10 for the weekend; $5 for students, seniors, and EBT, WIC and ConnectorCare cardholders; and children ages 12 and under are admitted for free.