Discover Central Mass: Fall Events, Festival of Lights, and the Art of Photography

By-Hank Stolz

Photo-Submitted

WORCESTER, MA– Discover Central Mass with Tim Power. Tim tells Hank Stolz about upcoming fall and Halloween-themed events happening in Central Massachusetts, such as “Boo in the Woo” and the Jack o’ Lantern display at Southwick Zoo.

Joining Tim and Hank is Lisa Malo from the Worcester BID (Business Incentive District) and photographer Alan Dines. Lisa talks about how the annual Festival of Lights had grown into a signature winter event for the city, featuring extensive lighting installations that create a magical atmosphere downtown. Lisa says “it makes you feel like someone cares about downtown, which is a neighborhood of the city that belongs to all of us.” She points out how the BID’s work had evolved from its initial focus on foundational cleaning and safety programs to include more public art and event programming, reflecting downtown’s growth. Worcester has a vibrant and full calendar of events, and she asks listeners to go to the Discover Central Mass and Downtown Worcester BID websites to find things to do.

After taping the podcast Alan was preparing to work with Foghat who was playing the Hanover Theater. His approach to concert photography focuses on capturing authentic, “unguarded moments” where musicians relax or interact with bandmates, in addition to high-energy performance shots. Alan talked about his commitment to providing high-quality, professional photos for non-profit organizations that often cannot afford them. He credited his involvement with Discover Central Mass for connecting him with major clients like Old Sturbridge Village.

And he had a compliment for Lisa and The BID, “…before we even met, I started coming to Worcester because of the events that BID was doing… it did draw me out to Worcester.”