5 Things You May Not Know About Worcester, MA – But Should

©Journal Communications/Jeff Adkins

Worcester is a very special place, and whether you’re new to the area or have lived here awhile, you should feel proud to call it home. From its historic roots to higher education opportunities and diverse cultures, Worcester is incredible. Here are five things about Worcester that should absolutely be on your radar: 

1) It’s Historic 

Worcester boasts over 300 years of history. During the Industrial Revolution, the city transitioned from a farming town to an industrial hub. 

Thanks to the Blackstone Canal and the Boston & Worcester Railroad, the city was well-positioned to move the goods its factories began producing, and the city enjoyed stellar growth. 

Many items can attribute the site of their invention to Worcester: rocket fuel, candlepin bowling and the Valentine’s Day card, to name a few. 

©Journal Communications/Jeff Adkins

2) It’s Brewing 

There are many unique, quality breweries in Worcester. Greater Good Imperial Brewing Co. specializes in imperial beer with high alcohol content using a slow-brew system. Bay State Brewing Co. prides itself on creating “distinctive and drinkable” small-batched lagers. Their cans are packaged with unique, pinup-style illustrations. Seven Saws Brewing Co. creates a laid-back space with locally crafted brews. At Sterling Street Brewery in Clinton, enjoy good beer, delicious food, board games and live music. And don’t forget Wormtown Brewery, which aims to put a smile on customers’ faces with its “Be Hoppy” IPA and welcoming taprooms across the region. 

3) It’s Thriving 

The population of Worcester has been on the rise in recent years, surpassing 200,000 for the first time since the 1950s and continuing to grow. Currently, over 211,000 people call Worcester home, with the median age just under 34. The region is growing economically as well, with more than 20 projects being funded in Worcester County in the last year alone, thanks to millions of dollars in grant awards from the Community One Stop for Growth program. 

iStock/skynesher

4) It’s a Higher Ed Hub 

Did you know that the Worcester region is home to 12 colleges and universities? For those seeking to further their education, you couldn’t ask for a better lineup of options. From community colleges to state institutions and even medical schools, there’s something here for anyone wanting to dive deeper into academics. 

Higher education institutions in the area include Anna Maria College, Assumption University, Clark University, College of the Holy Cross, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine (Tufts University), Framingham State University, MCPHS University, Nichols College, Quinsigamond Community College, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester State University and UMass Chan Medical School. 

©Journal Communications/Nathan Lambrecht

5) It’s Diverse 

Largely due to the huge industrial boom in the 1800s and 1900s, Worcester is home to a rich tapestry of cultures and peoples from across the world. 

This diversity is thoroughly celebrated at myriad festivals and a wealth of locally owned restaurants (like Chashu Ramen + Izakaya) that showcase the spectrum of cultural and culinary traditions. 

There’s the Caribbean American Carnival, which takes place on the last Sunday of every August. Also in August is the Italian Festival, sponsored by churches and local restaurants. In September, the Brazilian Festival of Worcester takes over Institute Park and showcases traditional food, music and dance. The Worcester Irish Cultural Festival happens in October at Polar Park, and features Irish dance, music, storytelling, Gaelic football and hurling.