It’s official … the days are now getting longer! No real snow to speak of yet, but the light of the sun is slowly returning, and children are getting ready for a winter break from school and many are taking advantage of the festive and cultural events that happen this time of year. If you’re looking for activities to do with your family, various museums are having special events during the week before the new year. Visit them on-line and give us a comment or two with your recommendations and experiences.

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Friday – 12/22

6:30pm – WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION -In Ashfield, MA, on the town green, There will be Morris Dancing, storytelling, dancing and singing around a bonfire. Hot cider, cocoa and snacks will be available for sale at Elmer’s next to the event. [All ages] ( Free)

Saturday – 12/23

4:30pm – CHRISTMAS CARROLING DOWN MAIN ST. – Families will be gathering in front of the Cummington Community House on Main Street in Cummington, MA, for some old fashion door to door Christmas Caroling down Main Street. [Families] (Free)

Sunday – 12/24

11am – CHILDREN’S SMALL CHORUS – Hilltown children will be gathering at the Old Creamery in Cummington, MA, for their first chorus performance. Families are invited to come participate and watch. [Families] (Free)

Monday – 12/25

CHRISTMAS

Tuesday – 12/26

KWANZAA

BOXING DAY

11am- MIDIEVAL FAIRE – Enter the magical world of lords, ladies and knights in shining armor! Members of the Society of Creative Anachronism recreates the life of the Middle Ages with re-enactments of knights at battle, demonstrations of medieval artistry, and performances of music and dance at the Springfield Museum in Springfield, MA. Pan for magical gems in the Museum Mining Company sluice. Medieval art projects. Make your own stained glass window craft in the Art Discovery Center. Rosalita’s Puppets perform Goldilocks and the Three Dragons at 1 p.m. (Families) ($)

Wednesday – 12/27

10am – KIDS ART PROJECT – A book reading and collage workshop in Kidspace at MASS MoCA in North Adams, MA. Author and illlustrator Andrea Patel reads from her book, “On That Day: A Book of Hope for Children” and will lead a children’s art project. Reservations required. Call 664-4481 ext. 8131. [Ages 5-12] ($)

Thursday – 12/28

11am – SWISS BLISS – A variety of alpine amusements await as the Clark in Williamstown, MA, brings the mountains and merriment of Switzerland to the Berkshire hills for a day for Swiss Bliss, a family event. Paint a Swiss cowbell, imagine trekking through the rugged Alps as you snowshoe on Stone Hill or be inspired by the Swiss landscape as you take a family gallery tour of Alpine Views: Alexandre Calame and the Swiss Landscape. For more info call 458-2303. [Families] (Free)

Friday – 12/29

10am – BUCCANEER BOOTY – Pirates and landlubbers alike, make your treasure chest to keep your plunder safe and sound at the Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield, MA. Required timed tickets will be available at the front desk beginning at 10 a.m. Space is limited. First come, first served. Free with Festival of Trees admission. [Families] ($)