WORCESTER — Every Wednesday evening this summer, dozens of people are rolling out their yoga mats at Green Hill Park for an hour of movement, mindfulness, and community—all completely free.
What started as a small gathering of just a handful of people has grown into one of Worcester’s most welcoming outdoor wellness events. Led by local instructor Madeleine DiBiase, the free yoga sessions now attract an average of 50 participants each week, bringing together people of all ages and experience levels.
DiBiase launched the classes three years ago after moving to Worcester with her husband and looking for a way to meet people while sharing her passion for yoga.
“I had just recently graduated from my teacher training and wanted an opportunity to practice teaching outside of a studio,” Madeleine DiBiase said. “I also wanted a space to make friends who enjoyed yoga, so I decided to start offering free classes at Green Hill Park.”
The first few weeks were quiet, with only one or two participants—and occasionally none at all. But through word of mouth and social media, the program steadily grew into the thriving community it is today.
“Now we’re averaging about 50 people every week,” she said.
The classes take place on a large grassy circle overlooking the park, where participants practice as the sun sets over Worcester.
“It’s beautiful,” DiBiase said. “The sun sets every time we’re there.”
While yoga offers plenty of physical benefits, including improved flexibility and strength, DiBiase believes the biggest impact has been creating an accessible space where anyone can participate, regardless of experience or financial circumstances.
“There’s really not many opportunities in the city to practice yoga for free on a recurring basis,” she said. “I wanted to make sure there was an option for people whether or not they could afford studio classes.”
The welcoming atmosphere has made the sessions especially popular with beginners.
“It’s very beginner-friendly,” DiBiase said. “We have people of all ages, backgrounds, people who’ve never done yoga before and people who practice regularly. Everyone is welcome, and I always make sure the class is simple and easy to follow.”
Beyond the exercise itself, the weekly classes have become a place for people to build friendships and strengthen community connections.
“This has really become a community,” DiBiase said. “People recognize each other, they’ve made friends, they grab dinner afterward or go for a walk around the park together. The benefits go far beyond the yoga.”
The free classes are held every Wednesday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. throughout the summer. Participants are encouraged to bring a yoga mat or towel, a water bottle, and, as DiBiase puts it, “a smile.”
Classes meet on the circular lawn just to the right of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Green Hill Park. Those interested in attending can RSVP for free through the Eventbrite link available on Madeleine DiBiase’s Instagram page, @thehopefulyogi.
Whether you’re trying yoga for the first time or looking for a relaxing way to stay active outdoors this summer, the weekly sessions offer a chance to improve both physical and mental well-being while connecting with others in the Worcester community.
