In 2025, Amherst, MA and the University of Massachusetts hosted a slew of notable events. From putting on more drag shows, supporting local bands and UMass clubs’ organizing innovative events, the arts bloomed in our local and university community. As the arts face ongoing legislative defunding efforts, which have already impacted our local arts organizations, our community has defied pulling back on their creative expression, if anything soaring forward. Please enjoy this collection of photos documenting the arts in Amherst and at UMass throughout 2025.
–Suzanne Bagia, Head Arts Editor
Fifth Annual Bandtoberfest brings in crowd by Francisco Aguirre-Ghiso (photos by Charlotte Thirman)

