Sept. 17: A poetry reading with Jennifer Clarvoe and Melissa Range (Grolier Poetry Bookshop, Cambridge)
Melissa Range and Somerville poet Jennifer Clarvoe will be reading at Grolier Poetry Bookshop on Thursday with an introduction by local legend Martha Collins. Clarvoe’s most recent book of poems was published in April, “Piano Piano.” Range is the winner of the 2025 Vanderbilt Literary Prize for her book, “Printer’s Fist.” Expect a powerful and moving evening.
Sept. 18: Hole Show: Cyber (Crystal Ballroom, Somerville)
a/s/l? Hole Show returns on Friday with a fantastic techno-futurisic line-up of performers sharing their own takes on cybering. Hosted by the delightfully disgusting Sherman, Hole Show features drag, burlesque and then some with a DJ set by L’Duke. Leave the chat for a night and get weird irl.
Sept. 19: Fill-a-bag at Make and Mend (21 Hawkins St., Somerville)
Calling all thrifty crafters and artists: Somerville art resale shop, Make and Mend, will be hosting a “Fill-a-bag” event on Saturday. “Fill-a-bag” is exactly what it sounds like. Patrons will be let loose into the store’s back inventory and, for a low price, allowed to fill up a bag with as many craft and art supplies as they can fit. This place has miles and miles of yarn. The event is popular and I recommend signing up for their Patreon to snag early VIP access.
Sept. 19: Touch Grass + Play Games irl (The Jungle, Somerville)
Somerville grassroots matchmakers, Touch Grass + Meet irl and Super Party Bros, are hosting a Saturday afternoon and evening of old-school arcade games, Mario Kart and Nintendo 64, plus an opportunity to find your player two. The night offers a low-pressure and free dating alternative for those who’ve burnt out on the apps in the Somerville and Cambridge area. The Jungle is a cozy and chill venue, perfect for casual games and conversation.
Sept. 20: The Queer Love Project 2-Year Anniversary Reading (All She Wrote Books, Somerville)
Celebrate queer love with powerful storytelling and poetry at All She Wrote Books as The Queer Love Project celebrates two years of community and kindness. Jerry Portwood launched The Queer Love Project two years ago while on a walk in Somerville. Anthony DiPietro, Lynette D’Amico, Michael Lowenthal and Jingo Mante will be some of the evening’s readers. All ages and identities are welcome. While The Queer Love Project is primarily focused on LGBTQ+ stories and poetry, allies and anyone curious is welcome to attend. The event is free.
