The Acton Exchange

Library: Great Decisions Group Discussion – South Africa, Mike DeMoor
2025-07-30 18:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Acton Memorial Library Meeting Room (1st floor), 486 Main Street, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. The program model involves reading the Great Decisions Briefing Book and meeting in a Discussion Group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today. This months topic will be on South Africa, Mike DeMoor. A short article is available from the Great Decisions briefing book. Please read it ahead of the meeting. It is available in the library.

The meeting will be led by Dr. Michael de Moor, MD. Mike grew up in South Africa where his Father was the Consul in Johannesburg for the Netherlands government. He will share his experiences as a medical student and physician at the Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town.

Acton Community Supper: July
2025-07-30 16:30 - 17:30, 2025-07-23 16:30 - 17:30 | Mt Cavalry Lutheran Church, 472 Massachusetts Ave., Acton, MA, 01720
Join us at our All Sit Down Supper! We welcome all our guests inside to join neighbors and friends at the tables in our air-conditioned Fellowship Hall. Welcome Summer! We look forward to sharing a meal and friendship with you.
July 2 — Fireworks Fruit Salad and Cheeseburgers (HAPPY 4th OF JULY !! )
Sponsored by Friends of Mike Tobia
July 9 — Summer Supper: Hot Open face Turkey Sandwiches
Sponsored by friends of Mt Calvary Lutheran Church of Acton
July 16 — Fenway Night: Sausage and Pepper Subs
Sponsored by the Students of Paint for Progress
July 23 — Mexican Night: Chicken Chili and Quesadillas
In Honor of Joan Appleton
July 30 — Chef Salad with Deli Meats Dinner
Sponsored by Congregation Beth Elohim
** Please note that the meals we serve may contain gluten, nuts, seeds, or dairy.
Doors open at 4:15pm. Please, do not enter earlier so our volunteers can prepare your Supper.
Parking: Park your car in the back parking lot and enter from the walkway to the church door.
For more information, see http://www.facebook.com/CommunitySupperofActonMA.

Library: Summer Sewing Series - Finding Your Fabric
2025-07-29 16:30 - 18:00 | Acton Memorial Library Meeting Room (1st floor), 486 Main Street, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
Want to learn how to make your own clothes but don’t know where to start? Join our Summer Sewing Series! Find out the difference between weights of fabric. Learn which needles work best on what fabric. And leave with the know how to find the perfect fabric for your next project.
Space is limited, sign up on the program page on our website: https://actonmemoriallibrary.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/summer-sewing-series-finding-your-fabric/
Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities are available upon request by emailing library@actonma.gov.

ACTON COA Invites You to Dinner with Doug
2025-07-29 16:30 - 17:30 | Acton Senior Center, 30 Sudbury Road Rear, Acton, MA, 01720
Doug from Boston Events will be serving your choice of BBQ pulled pork or BBQ chicken, corn, coleslaw and dessert for $5.00. Please sign up prior to the event by calling the Senior Center @ 978-929-6652.
Open to all 60+

Acton COA Presents Tech Assistance with Matt
2025-07-29 10:00 - 12:00 | Acton Senior Center, 30 Sudbury Road Rear, Acton, MA, 01720
AB student Matt will be here to assist you with any of your tech needs or questions. No
appointment necessary just stop by and see him in the lounge.
Open to all ages 60+

Iron Work Farm Open Houses and Crafts
2025-07-27 12:00 - 17:00 | Jones Tavern, 128 Main St, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
The Iron Work Farm continues its series of combined 4th Sunday events with museum open houses at Jones Tavern (1 to 3 p.m.) and at the Jones-Faulkner Homestead (3 to 5 p.m.), as well as the second half of a two-part program for children and families on colonial ceramics, “Fire in the Hole.”
For “Fire in the Hole,” from 12 to 5 p.m. at the Faulkner Homestead we will fire the clay vessels that were made in Part One in an outdoor kiln. We will also learn about colonial embroidery and the origins of the “Purple Heart”, and participants can cut and sew a decorative cloth heart. Instruction in basic embroidery stitches will be included.
Members of the Nashoba Valley Weavers Guild will also be at the Faulkner House to share their textile expertise.
Parking on site or nearby.
For more details, see www.ironworkfarm.org.

Acton CoD: ADA 35th Anniversary Celebration
2025-07-27 11:00 - 14:00 | NARA Park, 25 Ledge Rock Way, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
The Acton Commission on Disabilities will celebrate the 35th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act at the NARA Park lower pavilion (wheelchair accessible).
The park is wheelchair accessible, and we will be there rain or shine. Sandwiches and seltzers provided.
All are welcome.
Acton residents can reserve a free, accessible ride there and back. To reserve a ride, call 978-929-6589.
Contact cod@actonma.gov with any questions.

Acton-Boxborough Farmers Market
2025-07-27 10:00 - 13:00, 2025-07-20 10:00 - 13:00 | Elm Street Playground, Elm Street, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
Stock up on local produce and artisanal goods while you enjoy music, artisan offerings, our community table . . . and friends and neighbors.
Every Sunday, 10AM – 1PM, June 15 – October 12.

Help Eradicate Loneliness with Greeting Cards
2025-07-26 13:00 - 15:00 | West Acton Baptist Church, 592 Mass Ave, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
This is an opportunity to help eradicate loneliness by sending cards to those in need. Cards will be for sale or make your own. The more you buy, the cheaper they are. Bring at least 2 addresses of someone you know needs to receive a card & the the stamp will be supplied!
Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Loving Hearts fund, a fund to help those in need.
ALL are welcome to join!

NARA: Yellow Brick Road - A Tribute to Elton John
2025-07-25 20:00 - 22:30 | NARA Park, 25 Ledge Rock Way, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
**Welcome to Yellow Brick Road: A Tribute to Elton John!**
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable evening celebrating the legendary music of Elton John! Join us for a magical journey down the Yellow Brick Road.
Our talented performers will breathe life into Elton John’s greatest hits, ensuring a night filled with nostalgia, joy, and unforgettable melodies. This is more than just a concert; it’s an experience that will leave you singing and dancing long after the final note!
Don’t miss out on this incredible event—secure your tickets now and be part of a night that promises to be truly spectacular!
Address: NARA Park, 71 Quarry Rd Acton MA

Discovery Museum Free Friday Nights
2025-07-25 16:30 - 20:00, 2025-07-18 16:30 - 20:00 | Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton, MA, 01720, United States
Visitors can enjoy the Museum and the Discovery Woods outdoor nature playscape and Treehouse with free admission from 4:30pm to 8:00pm every Friday night from June 20 until Labor Day. Reservations are no longer required nor accepted.
The Museum will gratefully accept non-perishable food items for Open Table and Acton Food Pantry in lieu of admission, though a food donation is not required for admission.
Thank you to the following local businesses that made this summer’s free admission Friday nights possible:
June 20 – Dube Construction Management
June 27 – Enterprise Bank
July 4 ** Closed for Independence Day **
July 18 – Enterprise Bank
July 25 – Enterprise Bank
August 1 – Heffernan Build & Remodel, Inc.
August 8 – Not Your Average Joe’s
August 15 – Swymfit
August 29 – Sutherland Realty Group/Keller Williams Realty Boston NW
Free admission on Friday nights—every Friday during the summer, and the first Friday night of each month October through June—is part of the Discovery Museum’s Open Door Connections program to provide opportunities for those who face a variety of barriers to experience the Museum.

State Representative Danillo Sena Office Hours
2025-07-25 15:00 - 16:00 | Two Friends Chocolate, 625 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough, MA, 01719, United States
Rep. Sena and his staff will be available to provide assistance with matters related to state government and to engage in discussions about local concerns. Office hours are open to the public, welcoming all residents from the district to participate
“I am looking forward to holding office hours in Shirley and Boxborough to meet with constituents,” said Rep Sena. “Our office is committed to maintaining a transparent and supportive space for the 37th Middlesex District, and we hope you join us!”
Rep. Sena will be announcing additional office hour times at locations in the district. If you have questions, reach out to legislative aide Will Woodring at william.woodring@mahouse.gov. For information about Rep. Sena, his office, and constituent services, visit his website.

“Discovery After Dark” 21+ party
2025-07-24 18:30 - 21:30 | Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton, MA, 01720, United States
What: “Discovery After Dark” 21+ party. Features live music from East Coast Soul, drinks, BBQ dinner (including vegetarian, gluten-free, nut-free, soy-free, and dairy-free options) from Big Pig Barbeque, games, and FUN.
Where: Outdoors in Discovery Museum’s Discovery Woods and Treehouse, and inside the Museum
Tickets and cost:

Advance tickets required; walk-ins will not be guaranteed entrance.
General Admission pricing until July 24 (or until sold out): $60 per person or $330 for a Party Pack (Group of 6)

Tickets and more information: Visit https://bit.ly/DiscoveryDark2025
Gratitude: Discovery After Dark 2025 is sponsored by Open Door Education. Thank you!

Library: AI Unveiled: Exploring the Promise, Perils, and Potential of AI
2025-07-24 18:00 - 19:00 | Acton Memorial Library Meeting Room (1st floor), 486 Main Street, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
Location: Meeting Room, Acton Memorial Library | 486 Main Street, Acton MA 01720
Presentation Description:
Imagine a world where computers can think, learn, and even create. Welcome to the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the technology that’s changing everything from how we shop to how we drive. In this presentation, we’ll take a journey through the exciting world of AI, exploring its history, its amazing applications, and even the potential risks. We’ll see how AI is making our lives easier, smarter, and sometimes even a little bit scary. And we’ll peek into the future to see where AI might take us next.
Presenter Bio:
Mark Gisson is currently the Assistant Director of the Hooksett Library. He has worked in the library field for 21+ years, providing technology support and training for both librarians and patrons. He also serves as the Co-Chair of the NHLA-ITS Section. His passion is to keep abreast of emerging technologies, promote and facilitate positive user experiences with relevant technologies, including cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

A Celebration of Plant-Based Foods Picnic
2025-07-23 18:00 - 20:00 | NARA Park, 25 Ledge Rock Way, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
We all share one activity that can have a significant impact on climate change—the food we eat! Eating more plant-based meals is an immediate and DELICIOUS way to put less CO2 into the atmosphere.
This is a community potluck picnic, so please bring a dish based on veggies, fruits, grains, beans, or nuts. We are also marking 5 years since passage of the Climate Emergency Declaration. Join us for great food, community spirit, and the commitment to a healthy, resilient future. Sponsored by EnergizeActon.org and the Town of Acton Sustainability Office.
Info and registration at https://community.massenergize.org/ActonMA/events/1998.

Clement & Elizabeth H. Moritz Conservation Land: Grand Opening
2025-07-23 14:00 - 15:00 | Clement & Elizabeth H. Moritz Conservation Land, 35 Wetherbee St, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
After years of dreaming and relationship building, the Town of Acton was able to acquire the 33-acre land with help from several funding sources, including, the Residents of Acton through the Community Preservation Act, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Local Acquisition for Natural Diversity (LAND) Grant, Acton Conservation Trust, and Sudbury Valley Trustees (SVT). With the help of patient property owners and the will of the residents of Acton, this new land adjoins the neighboring 73-acre Wetherbee Conservation Land to create 100+ acres of continuously protected and critical habitat. In addition, SVT will also hold a Conservation Restriction (CR) to ensure the natural resources of this land remain permanently protected for generations to come.
Directions: GPS to 35 Wetherbee St, and use the parking area available along the Wetherbee St shoulder adjacent to Wetherbee Conservation Land. Follow signs for a trail from Wetherbee Conservation Land to the Grand Opening area.

Library: Yarn & Needle Club
2025-07-22 15:00 - 16:00 | Acton Memorial Library Meeting Room (1st floor), 486 Main Street, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
Knitters, crocheters, embroiderers, and sewers, join the library to work on your project and socialize! We meet every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month.

Acton COA Presents: Life Chapters: Stories Worth Sharing with Matt (Life Stories in print copy)
2025-07-22 11:00 - 12:00 | Acton Senior Center, 30 Sudbury Road Rear, Acton, MA, 01720
AB student Matt is excited to lead a special discussion group focused on sharing your life stories and wisdom with younger generations. Whether it’s a cherished memory, a life lesson, or a turning point in your journey, your voice matters. Join Matt at the Council on Aging in a relaxed, meaningful conversation about how you would like your story to be heard and remembered. Let’s connect generations one story at a time.
Open to all 60+.

ACTON COA Invites You to Java with John
2025-07-22 09:30 - 10:30 | Acton Senior Center, 30 Sudbury Road Rear, Acton, MA, 01720
Town Manager John Mangiaratti will be at the Senior Center to update you on what is going on in Town and answer any of your questions. Light refreshments will be served. Acton TV will be filming this live broadcast.

Ask Me Fair -- Living Library Event
2025-07-19 14:00 - 16:00 | Sargent Memorial Library, 427 Mass. Ave., Boxborough, MA, 01719
Like books, every individual has a story to share and there is value in discussion.
The ASK ME FAIR allows children and adults to ask questions, listen, learn, and gain more understanding of people who may be different from themselves. The presenters are a diverse group of adults who have interesting life experiences and are willing to share personal experience with children to foster dialogue and curiosity and community.
For more information, see ASK ME Fair.
Register for the ASK ME Fair.

FreeBee Market: Boxborough
2025-07-19 10:30 - 12:00 | Boxborough FreeBee Network, 30 Middle Road, Boxborough, MA, 01719, United States
The FreeBee Network and Market was formed in the wake of the pandemic, and a large local apartment fire. These experiences emphasized the importance of a central, volunteer-driven team to connect neighbors to share access to food, resources, and services.
For more information, see Boxborough FreeBee Network and Market.

Silver Unicorn: ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) Sale to benefit the Acton Food Pantry
2025-07-19 10:00 - 17:00 | Silver Unicorn Bookstore, 12 Spruce Street, Acton, MA, 01720
Each year, publishers send us Advanced Review Copies, or ARCs, of books that are yet to be published, so that we can read them ahead of time. After the book is published, they become obsolete. We don’t want to throw them away, because that would be wasteful, but they take up a lot of room, so we have to get rid of them somehow, and also, we are not allowed to profit from the sale of them. Our solution — the ARC Sale!
ALL proceeds go to the Acton Food Pantry. This is what we call a WIN, WIN, WIN. We get to clear out our shed, you get good books for cheap, and the Acton Food Pantry gets much-needed funds. WIN. WIN. WIN. It’s one of our favorite annual traditions.
The ARC Sale is CASH ONLY. One book is $2, or three for $5. Cash and food donations for the Acton Food Pantry are also welcome.

Acton DPW polystyrene (styrofoam) collection
2025-07-19 10:00 - 13:00 | DPW, 14 Forest Rd, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
On the third Saturday of every month (except June, which is 2nd Saturday), you can recycle your clean styrofoam containers.
For details about the 2025 schedule, and what you can recycle, see https://actonma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/10278/Polystyrene-collection-days-and-guide-2025.

NARA: Draw the Line - Only Officially Endorsed Aerosmith Tribute Show
2025-07-18 20:00 - 22:30 | NARA Park, 25 Ledge Rock Way, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
**Draw the Line: The Officially Endorsed Aerosmith Tribute Show!**
Hailing from the same vibrant area near Boston, Massachusetts, that gave rise to the legendary Aerosmith, this electrifying tribute show is not to be missed! Join us for an unforgettable evening at NARA Park in Acton, MA, where you can experience the magic of Aerosmith’s music brought to life. Get ready to rock out and relive the iconic hits that have defined generations. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible event!

Library: Virtual - "Artificial Stupelligence: The Hilarious Truth About AI" with Author Lynn Raebsamen
2025-07-18 10:00 - 11:00 | Zoom
We are so excited to chat with author Lynn Raebsamen, a finance expert and tech enthusiast, who shines a light on the Artificial Intelligence that just knocks the fear out of us. She’ll be chatting about her book, “Artificial Stupelligence: The Hilarious Truth About AI”, the laugh-out-loud guide to the brilliance—and blunders—of AI. We hope you can join us for this fun and informative event!
Sign up for the Zoom link here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/9717460385828/WN_2Stzc16DT_WP_BWX1DygIA#/registration
In partner with the Ashland Public Library

Library: Summer Concert Series: Squeezebox Stompers
2025-07-17 17:30 - 19:00 | Acton Memorial Library Back Lawn, 486 Main Street, Acton, MA, 01720, United States
Location: Back Library Lawn, Acton Memorial Library | 486 Main Street, Acton MA 01720
For over 25 years, The Squeezebox Stompers have brought the vibrant sounds of Cajun, zydeco, blues, folk, and original music to New England, earning Boston Music Awards and songwriting accolades along the way. With a rich blend of instruments—including accordion, fiddle, mandolin, saxophone, harmonica, guitar, bass, and drums—They create an unique live music experience. Their lively and eclectic performances are guaranteed to get you on your feet and having a blast!

Book Club with Sarah
2025-07-17 10:00 - 11:00 | Acton Senior Center, 30 Sudbury Road Rear, Acton, MA, 01720
Come join the book club where we will discuss varying topics in a short book, talk in depth about different details, and enjoy all that the book provides! The book we are reading is Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie. Copies are on reserve at the Acton Memorial Library. We will discuss the best highlights and most interesting details of the book and anything else you would like to talk about! The club will meet three times over the summer; titles for the second and third meetings to be determined. Group is facilitated by our summer intern and long-time volunteer Sarah Willard.
