Paul Jost and Jim Ridl Bring Soulful Jazz Storytelling to the Mosesian Center for the Arts

The following announcement was provided by the Mosesian Center for the Arts:

The Mosesian Center for the Arts brings its relaunched jazz series, Chords and Cocktails, into the new year with an evening of soulful storytelling and virtuosic musicianship. On Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026 at 7:30 p.m., acclaimed vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Paul Jost is joined by pianist and composer Jim Ridl for an intimate and compelling performance in the Charles Mosesian Theater. Hailed as “one of the most soulful jazz vocalists of his generation,” Jost is known for his passionate delivery, inventive phrasing, and deeply expressive approach to song. A multi-instrumentalist, arranger, and composer, he has performed at leading venues including Jazz at Lincoln Center, the 55 Bar, SMOKE Jazz Club, and major international festivals worldwide.

Annual River of Light Lantern Parade Returns to Mosesian Center for the Arts

The Mosesian Center for the Arts will host the annual River of Light Lantern Parade — a celebration of light in the heart of the winter. See details in the announcement from the City of Watertown, below. Join us for the River of Light Lantern Parade on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, at 4 p.m. at the Mosesian Center for the Arts, located at 321 Arsenial St. Celebrate creativity, community, and light.

WEEKEND FUN: Art Inspired by Mt. Auburn Cemetery, Children’s Play, Creative Coffee Hour, Ethiopian Food

I have a diverse group of entertainments for you this weekend, with an emphasis on international culture, and including with a restaurant recommendation. Have you heard that a wonderful Ethiopian restaurant opened in Watertown Square last year? Start out your Friday exploring that delicious cuisine at Lalibela on Spring Street. On Saturday evening there is a music performance at Restaurant Chulo with Nepali singer Ram Krishna Dakhal. Sunday there is a play at the Mosesian called “The Miraculous Journey of Edward the Rabbit.”

Mosesian Center for the Arts Announces Inaugural Artist-in-Residence Cohort for 2026

Lyrical Faith was selected as the Mosesian Center for the Arts’ Ignite Fellow, one of the first group of Artists in Residence. The following announcement was provided by the Mosesian Center for the Arts:

The Mosesian Center for the Arts is pleased to announce the selected artists for its 2026 Artist-in-Residence Program, including the inaugural Ignite Fellow and the newly created Emerging Artist at Mosesian Arts award. This cohort of artists will be in residence during the Winter and Spring 2026 sessions, bringing a wide range of creative practices to MCA’s studios and engaging the community through public programs and events. The inaugural residency supports emerging and mid-career artists by providing dedicated time and studio space to develop new work in a vibrant, multidisciplinary arts environment. The Winter and Spring 2026 sessions will support five artists working across visual art, illustration, literature, spoken word, while conducting interdisciplinary research in public art, fashion and design, material experimentation, and socially engaged creative practice.

WEEKEND FUN: Guitarist Performs, Inauguration, Tour of Mt. Auburn Cemetery, New Movie

It is the first weekend of the new year; many of us may be thinking about simply relaxing at home, reading a book, doing a puzzle or catching up on our laundry. But there are some events of note that could get you to put on your coat and step outside. On Friday evening, there is an inauguration party for all our newly elected town representatives. Let’s go celebrate with them! Saturday afternoon, you could go stretch your legs at Mount Auburn Cemetery’s introductory tour. Even if you have walked there before, the tour can be informative.

WEEKEND FUN: Watercolors, Craft Drop In, SOLSTICE & Ceramics Demonstration

The New England Watercolor Society’s show at The Mosesian Center for the Arts includes “Boatyard at Sunset” by Rick Osann. Let’s make this a weekend dedicated to arts and crafts! A few days ago I went to the reception of the watercolor show at the Mosesian, and it is truly worth a visit. The art has been collected from around New England and it’s fantastic. On Friday evening there is an LGBTQ+ drop in at the Hatch Maker Space.

Local Podcast Features Jon Hecht, Head of the Mosesian Center, a Documentary Filmmaker, Restaurant Owner & an Author

The Little Local Conversations podcast focuses on people, places, stories of Watertown, and recently host Matt Hanna sat down with former State Rep. and political activist Jon Hecht, the Mosesian Center for the Arts’ new executive director, and a filmmaker who calls Watertown home. In addition, he spoke with the owner and chef of Ritcey East; and a first time author and long time a community volunteer. He also got the latest local government update. Episode 68: Jon Hecht (Political Activist / Former Town Councilor and State Representative)

Jon Hecht

Meet Jon Hecht! He’s a longtime contributor to the Watertown community from being a town councilor, a state representative for the area, the first president of the Watertown Community Foundation and many other involvements.

Opening Reception, Awards Ceremony for New England Watercolor Society Show at Mosesian Center for the Arts

Watertown’s Mosesian Center for the Arts is hosting the New England Watercolor Society 2025 Regional Juried Show, and the opening reception and awards ceremony will be held Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, from 2-4 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. See more details in the announcement from the MCA, below. The New England Watercolor Society is pleased to announce the 2025 New England Regional Show at the Mosesian Center in Watertown. Eighty-nine meticulously selected watercolor artists from across the region will showcase the diversity and range of this most demanding medium.