Haverhill Public Library Offers Gift Wrap Session Friday

Those with gifts to wrap may find a boost in holiday spirit by joining a gift-wrapping party at the Haverhill Public Library most of the day Friday. The seasonal, self-service drop-in event takes place Friday Dec. 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the library’s Milhendler room, 99 Main St., Haverhill. Besides presents, participants are advised to bring their own wrapping paper, gift tags and ribbon. Basic supplies, including tape, scissors and a limited amount gift wrap will be available.

Local Voices Take Part in This Weekend’s Ipswich River Community Chorus Holiday Concert

Thirteen local singers will perform as part of the Ipswich River Community Chorus’ holiday concert. “Christmas in Harmony: Songs From Around the World” will be performed Saturday, Dec. 13, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 14, at 4 p.m., at South Church, 41 Central St., Andover. Local voices include Caroline Louise Cole, Elizabeth Elliott, Bryan Hanssen, Ethan Humphrey, Betty Inco, Carrie Mazza, Kristen Proleau, Larry Raimondi, Gloria Riley, Konstanze Schiller, Sharleen Sullivan, Lynn Weston and John Willis.

Haverhill Bank Matching Donations to L’Arche Boston North Through Year End

Haverhill Bank is matching donations to L’Arche Boston North’s Recipe for Possibility Campaign, in support of plans to open a training café in the space formerly occupied by A-1 Deli on Merrimack Street. The bank is doubling the impact of contributions—up to $25,000—through the end of the year. “We are profoundly grateful to Haverhill Bank for once again stepping forward as our Matching Gift Partner,” says L’Arche Boston North’s Executive Director and Community Leader Lynette McRae. “Their generous $25,000 commitment is a powerful endorsement of our mission and inspires our entire community to deepen the impact of their giving.”

L’Arche Boston North, which serves adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, reports a growing need in the Merrimack Valley for inclusive, skill-building programs and meaningful vocational opportunities. Its Culinary Program addresses provides hands-on culinary education, community engagement and pathways to increased independence.

Haverhill VFW, Fusco Family and First Church of Christ Host Annual Veterans Christmas Party

Haverhill Veterans of Foreign Wars Lorraine Post 29, in partnership with the Fusco Family and the First Church of Christ in Bradford, is having a Christmas Party for veterans, held in memory of Anthony “Tony” Fusco. This year marks the fourth Christmas party hosted in Haverhill since the COVID-19 pandemic, organizers said, calling it a testament to Fusco family’s steadfast commitment to the veteran community and honoring Tony Fusco’s legacy of kindness, generosity and service. “Each year, this celebration reminds our veterans that they are part of a community that cares deeply for them. Thanks to the Fusco Family and the First Church of Christ, we’re able to honor their service with a day filled with gratitude, connection, and holiday spirit,” said VFW Lorraine Post 29 Commander John Berrini. Veterans and one guest may enjoy an afternoon of holiday cheer, recognition and fellowship.

Monthly Book Arts Introduction and Exploration at Museum of Printing Dec. 13

Those curious about book arts have a chance to explore and use materials and tools at Haverhill’s Museum of Printing Saturday. The monthly open studio allows also provides guidance Saturday, Dec. 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Museum of Printing, 15 Thornton Ave., Haverhill. There is a $10 suggested donation. The Museum of Printing is open every Saturday, year-round, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and other days for special events, at 15 Thornton Ave., Haverhill.

Seasonal Storyteller to Visit Groveland Council on Aging Dec. 9

New England storyteller Davis Bates brings seasonal stories and songs from around the world to a program sponsored by the Groveland Council on Aging. Bates’ free performance, “Celebrating the Season,” is Tuesday, Dec. 9, at 2 p.m. in Groveland Town Hall, 183 Main St., Groveland. The program brings together participatory stories and folk songs from Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Winter Solstice traditions from around the world. Among them is how a one-room schoolteacher saved Santa and an instructional tale from Zimbabwe.

Haverhill Public Library Collecting Food Through Dec. 20

The Haverhill Public Library is launching a Patron Pantry Food Drive to help local families in need. Non-perishable food items such as pasta, cereal, rice, snacks and canned goods may be left at the circulation desk at the library, 99 Main St., Haverhill. Items collected will be donated to Sacred Hearts Food Pantry. The food drive runs from Monday, Dec. 8 through Saturday, Dec.

Andover Music Group’s Performance Highlights Women’s Club Meeting

The Sunset Tappers of Andover brings its Christmas Show to the Women’s City Club of Haverhill. Members and guests gather Tuesday, Dec. 9, from noon to 2 p.m., at the Advent Christian Church, 160 Carleton St., Haverhill. A light lunch will be served. The club is collecting non-perishable food including canned meat and vegetables, pasta, rice and cereal at the meeting.