Many in Newton could use some post-election fun and stress relief. Newton has you covered.

The Newton Free Library is looking good for 150 years old, and in honor of its anniversary the staff is throwing an all-day party with crafts, music, dance and much more. There’s also a documentary at the West Newton Cinema to see, a jazz club event at the Allen Center and more to keep your November interesting.

Here are five things to do in Newton this weekend.

Friday, Nov. 7

From 7 to 9 p.m., West Newton Cinema will host a screening of “There Was, There Was Not,” a documentary film following four Armenian women facing the loss of their homeland and their journey of survival. The film has toured festivals worldwide following its world premiere at True/False Film Festival, winning multiple awards. After the screening, there will be a Q&A with filmmaker Emily Mkrtichian, moderated by Paul Boghosian, president of HarborSide Films.

From 7:30 to 9 p.m., the Allen Center will transform into a jazz club for a Casey Scheuerell Quintet concert, with table seating, drinks, and bar snacks available to enjoy during the show. Tickets are $30-$40.

Saturday, Nov. 8

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Newton Free Library will host a 150th Anniversary Party with activities for people of all ages. There will be a scavenger hunt, handouts of book recommendations from 1875 to today, custom crossword puzzles, crafts, a puppet show, a concert and more.

At 1 p.m., watch “The Swedish Torpedo,” a 2024 film about a Swedish single mother trying to swim the English Channel during WWII, at the Scandinavian Cultural Center. This is a 119-minute film in Swedish with English subtitles. Tickets are $10; $5 for SCC&L members.

Sunday, Nov. 9

From 2 to 4 p.m., learn about the history of Jewish food in Rome with award-winning writer Leah Koenig, author of Portico: Cooking and Feasting in Rome’s Jewish Kitchen, at the Jewish Community Center. She will also demonstrate how to make almond cookies. Admission is $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

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You can find more events or submit your own on our Events Page.

And the city has an ongoing list of arts-related events on the Newton Arts Calendar.