Hilltown Families 
Suggested Events 10/09/10-10/15/10
Discover fun and educational events happening this weekend in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
DIY: Halloween Paper-Maché Piñatas—The history of piñatas is rich, with historical traditions found in China, Europe, and Mexico, and are made out of a variety of materials, including clay pots, tissue paper, ribbons and paper-maché. In Mexico, piñatas were originally clay pots filled with sweets and treasures, later transformed into a seven-point star with religious symbolism. In today’s modern world, piñatas come in a menagerie of traditional and commercial characters and icons. Click on the image above to learn how to make your very own Halloween Paper-Maché Piñata with Hilltown Families Guest Artist, Kara Kitchen. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
If you have a family friendly event or educational program happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
BEST BETS
On Saturday & Sunday, October 9th & 10th from 10am-5pm – FALL FESTIVAL: Ashfield Fall Festival takes place on Main Street (rain or shine). A fabulous family event. Arts & Craft exhibits, local food, live music and dance, many kid activities, book & tag sales, seasonal foods. A showcase of Ashfield artisans and businesses. No dogs. www.ashfieldfallfestival.org Ashfield, MA (FREE ENTRANCE)
On Saturday night, October 9th from 6-9:30pm – HALLOWEEN EVENT: Skeleton Crew Theater (SCT) at Camp Kee-Wanee. SCT is a theatrical attraction with a Halloween twist. Think of it as a treasure/scavenger hunt you’ll solve in one evening. Shows are 45/65 minutes long. Dress for the outdoors and bring a flashlight. Not scary or gory, just spooky in a tasteful way. Bad weather cancels. www.skeletoncrewtheater.com Greenfield, MA ($)
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
On Saturday, October 16th from 10am-3pm – DISCOVERY DAY: Arcadia Discovery Day invites you to come explore the sanctuary and its many habitats, take a net and investigate the small invertebrates in the pond and field, build a bluebird or American kestrel box, and see live birds up close with local wildlife rehabilitator Tom Ricardi. www.massaudubon.org Easthampton, MA (FREE)
BULLETIN BOARD
SPONSORSHIP & ADVERTISING: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. Let us help get the word out about your event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business or announcement. Email hilltownfamilies@gmail.com for more information. — Help us help you!
KID’S CONSIGNMENT SALE: On Saturday, October 9th, come shop The Green Turtle’s Fall/Winter Children’s Consignment Sale at Richmond Town Hall (1529 State Rd.) in Richmond, MA from 10am–5pm. The Green Turtle is an upscale Children’s Eco Boutique showcasing high-end gently loved items ranging from clothing (newborn to preteen); including boutique apparel, shoes, books, toys, CD’s and DVD’s, baby and kids gear, furniture, décor, hand crafted items and more. Get deals on boutique brands and name brands such as: Mini Boden, Hanna Andersson, American Girl, GAP, Gymboree, Naartjie, Polo, LL Bean, Talbots as well as Carters, Old Navy, Children’s Place and more! Shop the Green Turtle Dollar Rack! greenturtlekid@gmail.com
PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS: Scott Halligan of Ashfield is currently offering in-home private music lessons for students of all ages in the Hilltowns. Lessons are available by the half-hour or hour in piano, guitar, string instruments, and brass instruments. Discounts are available for group lessons and households wishing to host lessons for multiple students. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned player, Scott can help you reach your goals in music! For rates, schedule, and other information please write to scotth@doubleedgetheatre.org. Scott holds a MM from the New England Conservatory of Music, and is Director of Instrumental Music at Double Edge Theatre in Ashfield, MA
Deadline to enter to win: 10/13
Deadline to enter to win: 10/13
FIELD TRIP: This weekend is the Cranberry Harvest Celebration. Pack up the car and take a road trip to Wareham, MA, for cranberry bog tours, helicopter rides, pony rides, cooking demonstrations, juried crafters and artisans, musical performances, games for children and much more. The Cranberry Harvest Celebration is a great way to see and learn about the picturesque cranberry harvest, while enjoying some old-fashioned family fun. www.cranberryharvest.org
NEW EXHIBIT: October 2nd through February 27th: Color Forms I: Pink and Blue Projects at KidSpace at MASS MoCA in North Adams. First of a two-part series of exhibitions that explore how color can become form and how it can be connected to social constructions of meaning such as gender. Artist Portia Munson will use paintings, photographs, and everyday objects to discuss the mixed messages sent to children about gender and about mass consumption. The sheer mass of collected pink and blue material goods displayed will make plain how children are indoctrinated into the world of materialism and are taught social rules for gender identity from an early age. kidspace.massmoca.org
Deadline to enter to win: 10/20
PARENT SUPPORT GROUP: Parents Together Support Groups are happening in both Northampton and Amherst, a FREE alternative support group for parents who learn best in non-traditional ways and have kids 5yo or under. Come play games, learn parenting skills, create art, go on field trips/picnics and discuss ways to keep your family happy and healthy. Transportation, childcare, games, prizes, food and coffee will be provided. Groups meet at the Amherst Family Center (Tuesdays from 9:30-11am) and the Northampton Parent Child Development Center (Time TBD). To learn more about this program and register, call Kris Larson at 834-3344 or email krislarson@unitedarc.org
COAT COLLECTION: The Girls Scouts in Hadley, MA are collecting gently-used coats to donate to local shelters this winter. Coats can be dropped off at the Hadley Park & Rec and the Hadley Elementary School through October 8th. More info call Kate at 531-5415
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Tune in every Saturday from 9-10am. Encore episodes are aired every Sunday from 7-8am.
This week on the HFVS we’re continuing with our fundraising efforts. Donate now to Valley Free Radio, YOUR community radio station!
Families have several ways to tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show:
Streaming Audio: Surf on over to ValleyFreeRadio.org on Saturday & Sunday mornings and listen to us live via streaming audio. On Your FM Dial: Tune in to WXOJ 103.3FM if you live near Northampton, MA.
PODCAST: Listen to the most recent episodes of the Hilltown Family Variety Show anytime you wish! Click here to see our current select of episodes, and be sure to subscribe to our podcast too!
WEEKLY LIST OF SUGGESTED EVENTS
Saturday • Sunday • Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Suggest an Event | Local Forecast | Free Museum Passes | Playgroups & Family Centers | Movies in the Valley | Movies in the Berkshires | Farmers’ Markets | Listen Here
Events Happening in the Hilltowns | ♦ On-going Events
Saturday – 10/9
MUSIC FESTIVAL: The sixth annual Pittsfield CityJazz Festival is scheduled through October 21st. www.berkshiresjazz.org Pittsfield, MA
9:30am-4:30pm – FOOD HISTORY: What’s cooking? Open hearth cooking at the Historic Deerfield. Open hearth cooks will prepare select dishes that are on display as part of the exhibition Dinner is Served!: Dining and the Decorative Arts. Come see “what’s cooking” and learn how these dishes were prepared in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The history workshop: Pots, Pans and Porridge: Children in the Colonial Kitchen, will be offered too starting at 12Noon. 775-7127 www.historic-deerfield.org Deerfield, MA (MUSEUM ADMISSION)
9:30am-5pm – FOOD HISTORY: Apple Days at Old Sturbridge Village. See their animal-powered Cider Mill in operation and try your hand at a man- (or woman- or child-) powered version. Learn about heirloom varieties of apples, taste a few (included with admission), take a walk in a Village orchard led by a horticulture expert, see (and smell!) cooking with apples, have a taste of mulled cider, and learn about storing and preserving the fruit that was such a big part of early New England life. 800-733-1830 www.osv.org Sturbridge, MA ($)
10am – MEDIEVAL FAIRE: Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum will host the second annual Ventfort Hall Medieval Faire. Organized by Ventfort Hall and the Western Massachusetts chapter of the Society for Creative Anachronism, the day’s events will include exciting displays of armored combat every hour on the hour; equestrian demonstrations; medieval arts, crafts and clothing; strolling troubadours and musicians; as well as exhibits, food and other demonstrations. Re-enactors in armor and period costumes will take part in the action. 637-3206 www.GildedAge.org Lenox, MA ($$)
10am-5pm – HARVEST FESTIVAL: Fall Foliage and Apple Festival at the 29th Annual Granville Harvest Fair. www.townofgranville.net Granville, MA
10:30am-4pm – HISTORIC TRADE: Made-by-Hand-Trades of the Past: Tinsmithing and Architectural Woodworking demonstrations at Historic Deerfield. www.historic-deerfield.org Deerfield, MA (MUSEUM ADMISSION)
♦ 10am-5pm – CORN MAZE: Mike’s Maze at Warner Farm (25 South Main St.). 665-8331 www.mikesmaze.com Sunderland, MA ($)
11am & 12NOON – AFRICAN DANCE: African dance classes for kids and families at the Wendell Town Hall with live special guest drummer, Baye Tama. Wendell, MA (FREE)
11am – FAMILY PERFORMANCE: Join magician Greg McAdam’s, and his puppet Malcolm for a magical hour of laughter and surprises in the auditorium at the Berkshire Museum. 443-7171 www.berkshiremuseum.org Pittsfield, MA ($)
11am, 1:15 & 3pm – FOLIAGE CRUISE: Quinnetukut II Riverboat cruises. Join Captain Steve Larivee and first mate Sarah Doyle for this 12 mile cruise along the scenic Connecticut River. Cruises depart from Barton Cove. Make a reservations: (800) 859-2960 Northfield, MA ($)
11am-2pm – PUMPKIN FESTIVAL: Annual Pumpkin Festival at the Bidwell House Museum (100 Art School Rd.), a family event with fun-filled activities for children of all ages. www.bidwellhousemuseum.org 528-6888 Monterey, MA
♦ 12Noon-3pm – COMMUNITY MEAL: Montague Farm Zen House presents the weekly Montague Farm Cafe -a free, weekly family oriented meal and gathering, with healthy food, art activities, live music, and games. 367-5275 Montague, MA (FREE)
♦ 12:30pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Chow Time in the aquarium at the Berkshire Museum. 443-7171 www.berkshiremuseum.org Pittsfield, MA (FREE w/museum admission)
1pm – WIND POWER: Wind Turbine Tour at Jiminy Peak. Tours involve a strenuous hike approx. 1/4 of a mile from the top of the chairlift and walking down to the Alpine Slide or the base of the mountain. Please wear appropriate footwear. RSVP 738-5500 ext. 3760 www.jiminypeak.com Hancock, MA (>$)
♦ 1pm – ASTRONOMY : Amherst Solar will be set up with their telescopes on the Amherst Town Common all summer. Stop by with the kids and see Sunspots, Prominences, Limb Darkening and more. 256-6234 amastro.org Amherst, MA (FREE)
♦ 2-4pm – CHESS: At the Forbes Library. Casual meets every Saturday the library is open. All competition levels are welcome. Drop in for part or all of the session. Bring your own set if you have one or use one of the library’s. 587-1011 www.forbeslibrary.org Northampton, MA (FREE)
♦ 3pm – ASTRONOMY: Observe the sun with Northampton Solar at A2Z Science and Learning Center. See Sunspots, Prominences, Limb Darkening and more. Northampton, MA (FREE)
5-6:45pm – HALLOWEEN EVENT: Munchkin Haunted Hay Rides at McCray’s Farm (55 Alvord St.). Gentle, exciting ride for families with children 7yo and younger. 533-0775 www.mccrays-farm.com South Hadley, MA ($)
5-8pm – ART WALK: Art Walk Easthampton is held the “Second Saturday” of the month. Locations across the city showcase visual, music and performance art in an energetic sampling of local, regional and national talent. Easthampton, MA (FREE)
6-9:30pm – HALLOWEEN EVENT: Skeleton Crew Theater (SCT) at Camp Kee-Wanee. SCT is a theatrical attraction with a Halloween twist. Think of it as a treasure/scavenger hunt you’ll solve in one evening. Shows are 45/65 minutes long. Dress for the outdoors and bring a flashlight. Not scary or gory, just spooky in a tasteful way. Bad weather cancels. www.skeletoncrewtheater.com Greenfield, MA ($)
7pm – HALLOWEEN EVENT: Family Friendly Haunted Hayrides at Echo Hill Orchards. 267-3303 Monson, MA
♦ 9pm – ASTRONOMY: View the Moon, Planets, Satellites, Multiple Stars, Star Clusters, Galaxies, Nebulas and more through the 6 ton, 25 foot long, 18 inch F/17, World Class Clark Refractor at the Wilder Observatory at the Amherst College. Set up a telescope on the lawn, view through public use telescopes. www.amherstastronomy.org Amherst, MA (FREE)
Sunday – 10/10
9:30am-4:30pm – FOOD HISTORY: What’s cooking? Open hearth cooking at the Historic Deerfield. Open hearth cooks will prepare select dishes that are on display as part of the exhibition Dinner is Served!: Dining and the Decorative Arts. Come see “what’s cooking” and learn how these dishes were prepared in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The history workshop: Pots, Pans and Porridge: Children in the Colonial Kitchen, will be offered too starting at 12Noon. 775-7127 www.historic-deerfield.org Deerfield, MA (MUSEUM ADMISSION)
♦ 10am-5pm – CORN MAZE: Mike’s Maze at Warner Farm (25 South Main St.). 665-8331 www.mikesmaze.com Sunderland, MA ($)
10:30am-4pm – HISTORIC ADVENTURES: Made-by-Hand-Trades of the Past: 18th-Century Cabinetmaking & Blacksmithing demo at Historic Deerfield. See historic trades demonstrations of 18th-century cabinetmaking with Craig Farrow, and blacksmithing with Rick Martin.. 775-7127 www.historic-deerfield.org Deerfield, MA (MUSEUM ADMISSION)
11am, 1:15 & 3pm – FOLIAGE CRUISE: Quinnetukut II Riverboat cruises. Join Captain Steve Larivee and first mate Sarah Doyle for this 12 mile cruise along the scenic Connecticut River. Cruises depart from Barton Cove. Make a reservations: (800) 859-2960 Northfield, MA ($)
12Noon-5pm – HARVEST FESTIVAL: Fall Foliage and Apple Festival at the 29th Annual Granville Harvest Fair. www.townofgranville.net Granville, MA
5-6:45pm – HALLOWEEN EVENT: Munchkin Haunted Hay Rides at McCray’s Farm (55 Alvord St.). Gentle, exciting ride for families with children 7yo and younger. 533-0775 www.mccrays-farm.com South Hadley, MA ($)
6-9:30pm – HALLOWEEN EVENT: Skeleton Crew Theater (SCT) at Camp Kee-Wanee. SCT is a theatrical attraction with a Halloween twist. Think of it as a treasure/scavenger hunt you’ll solve in one evening. Shows are 45/65 minutes long. Dress for the outdoors and bring a flashlight. Not scary or gory, just spooky in a tasteful way. Bad weather cancels. www.skeletoncrewtheater.com Greenfield, MA ($)
7:30-8:30pm – WOMEN’S SONG CIRCLE: Jewish Women’s Song Circle happens at Cradle with Felicia Sloin. Explore Jewish connections through song, chant, and meditation. Singing experience, affiliation, and knowledge of Hebrew are not necessary. 737-2601 www.feliciasloin.com Northampton, MA (FREE)
Monday – 10/11
10am-5pm in Granville: Fall Foliage and Apple Festival at the 29th Annual Granville Harvest Fair. http://www.townofgranville.net
1-3pm in Pittsfield: Family Day: Wally’s 13th Birthday! at the Berkshire Museum. Our landmark stegosaurus is 13 years old! Celebrate Wally’s birthday by creating colorful Wally mobiles in an art-making workshop from 1 – 3 p.m. Sing Happy Birthday to Wally at 2 p.m., and then enjoy birthday cake and punch. Crafts and refreshments while supplies last. 443-7171 http://www.berkshiremuseum.org (FREE w/Museum Admission)
Because it’s Columbus Day, please confirm all events below before attending.
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Northampton: Playgroup at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 9:30-11am in South Hadley: Drop-in playgroups at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 http://www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE)
♦ 10:30am in Northampton: Storytime with Ellie at the Forbes Library. 587-1011 http://www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 11:00am in Northampton: Tummy Time at the Forbes Library. 587-1011 http://www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 12Noon – 1:30pm in Northampton: Mother-Mother Breastfeeding group hosted by a certified lactation consultant every Monday at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. 582-2096 [FREE]
♦ 4:30pm in Northampton: Family Karate for kids ages 6-12 with an adult at the Hampshire Regional YMCA. 584-7086 (MEMBERS)
♦ 4:30-5:30pm in Northampton: The Forbes Library hosts a Manga/Anime Club. Drop-ins welcomed. In the children’s department. [FREE]
♦ 6:30pm in Montague: Evening Sing-Along at the Montague Center Library. Children of all ages and their families are invited to join Children’s Librarian Linda Hickman for a fun informal live music. Linda plays a variety of children’s music on the guitar and banjo, and there are bells and shakers for the children to play. For more information, call the Carnegie Library- 863-3214.
Tuesday – 10/12
In Searsburg, VT: Students interested in learning more about wind power can take a tour of the Searsburg Wind Facility, comprised of 11 wind turbines. Email Cynthia Grippaldi for time and to reg. at cynthiag@cetobnline.org (FREE)
♦9am-1pm in Amherst: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse (121 North Pleasant St.). Use rear entrance. 256-1145 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11am in South Hadley: Drop-in playgroups at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 http://www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11am in Amherst: Parents Together Support Group at the Amherst Family Center. An alternative support group for parents who learn best in non-traditional ways and have kids 5yo or under. Come play games, learn parenting skills, create art, go on field trips/picnics and discuss ways to keep your family happy and healthy. Transportation, childcare, games, prizes, food and coffee will be provided. To learn more about this program and register, call Kris Larson at 834-3344 or email krislarson@unitedarc.org (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Sandisfield: Playgroup at Sandisfield Old Town Hall. 644-0104 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in West Stockbridge: Playgroup at W. Stockbridge Town Hall. Gym Fun. 644-0104 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Northampton: Playgroup at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 9:30am-12:30pm in Belchertown: The Belchertown Family Center (720 Franklin St.) is open for drop-in playgroups for families with children 0-5yo. 283-7594 http://www.belchertownfamilycenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 10am in Florence: Kulp Memorial Lap Sitting at the Lilly Library for yougest ones 587-1500 http://www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10-11am in Greenfield: Pre-School Storyhour at the Greenfield Public Library (402 Main Street). Mrs. Sally Ahearn leads this story time for children ages 5 and under. 772-1544 http://www.greenfieldpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10:15-12:15am in Northampton: MotherWoman Postpartum Support Group at the Community Action Building (56 Vernon St.). Confidential drop-in group for mothers of infants and babies up to one year old who are experiencing a challenging postpartum time. Expectant mothers welcome. Free childcare up to four years old. 253-8990 wwwmotherwoman.org (FREE)
♦ 10:30am in Springfield: Preschool Storytime at the Springfield Central Library. Stories, songs, and a craft. Perfect for ages 3-5 years, with siblings welcome. Pre-registration required if you’ll be bringing more than 4 children . 263-6828, x201. http://www.springfieldlibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10:30am in Amherst: Sing with your Baby at the Jones Library in the large room. http://www.joneslibrary.org (FREE )
♦ 10am-12Noon in West Springfield: Drop-in playgroup at the First Congregational Church (20 Lathrop St.) for all parents and caregivers of babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. 734-7667 (FREE)
♦ 11:00am in Hatfield: Preschool story hour lead by Carolyn Mazel at the Hatfield Library (39 Main St.). Geared to ages 3-5, each story hour includes books, songs, finger plays, a play along with musical instruments, and a simple craft. 247-9097 (FREE)
♦ 11am in Florence: Toddler Time at the Lilly Library. 587-1500 http://www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 11am in Lenox: Toddler Story Time at the Lenox Library (18 Main Street). Story Time is for children age 18 months to 3 years. Children & their caregivers sing songs, learn finger plays & listen to a story. Following the structured program, participants are invited to stay so that the children can play together & their caregivers can visit. (FREE)
♦ 12:30pm in Pittsfield: Chow Time in the aquarium at 12:30pm at the Berkshire Museum. 443-7171 http://www.berkshiremuseum.org (FREE w/museum admission)
♦ 1:30-6:30pm in Northampton: Tuesday Farmers’ Market in Downtown Northampton, behind Thornes Marketplace! Food, plants, baby animals, live music, family-friendly. 586-7586 (FREE)
♦ 2:15pm in Amherst: Baby-friendly movie screening at the Amherst Cinema. ($)
♦ 3:30-4:45pm in Miller Falls: Millers Falls Library Club (23 Bridge St.). An afterschool program with drop-in sessions for children of all ages. Activities include arts and crafts, snacks and homework help. 659-3801 http://www.montaguepubliclibraries.org (FREE)
♦ 4-5pm in Northampton: Girls Circle Yoga at Embodiment Studio (94 King St., 2nd floor), an ongoing weekly group for like-hearted, mind, and spirited girls. This class is created for reducing anxiety, digestive stress, emotional stress and overwhelming emotions. 695-6950 ($)
♦ 4:30pm in Florence: I Can Read Book Club at the Lilly Library. 587-1500 http://www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
Wednesday – 10/13
7pm in Northampton: Vibraphone concert at the Forbes Library by Jeannette Muzima (2nd floor). All ages. 587-1013 (Free)
♦ 9am-12Noon in Amherst: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse (121 North Pleasant St.). Use rear entrance. 256-1145 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Ware: Drop-in playgroups at the Ware Family Center in the United Church of Ware building (49 Church St.). 967-8127 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Northampton: Playgroup at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Lenox: Playgroup at Lenox Community Center. 644-0104 (FREE)
♦ 9:30am-12:30pm in Belchertown: The Belchertown Family Center (720 Franklin St.) is open for drop-in playgroups for families with children 0-5yo. 283-7594 http://www.belchertownfamilycenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 10am in New Marlborough: Library Story hour. 644-0104 (FREE)
♦ 10am in Greenfield: Sunshine Story Time, an all-ages story hour – During the school year, this story time will take place, weather permitting, on the library’s back lawn. 772-1544 http://www.greenfieldpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10am in Northfield: Story time at the Northfield Public Library. with stories, crafts and snacks. 498-2455 http://www.northfieldpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10-11:30am in Hadley: Rollerskate with Tiny Tot Romp, Stop, ‘n’ Roll Skate and Play at Interskate 91 North (Hampshire Mall). Strollers welcome. Parent’s don’t have to wear skates. For Ages 6 & under. 586-2737 http://www.interskate91.com (>$)
♦ 10:30am in Leverett: Children’s story hour at the Leverett Library. http://www.leverettlibrary.org
♦ 10:30-11:45 am in Northampton: Jewish Family Jam for infants, toddlers and their caregivers. Sing, drum and dance. Led by Felicia Sloin at Lander Grinspoon Academy (257 Prospect St.). 737-2601 http://www.jfswm.org (>$)
♦ 10:30-11:45am in Amherst: Momma and Baby Yoga (Start after 7 weeks postpartum) at the CDH outpatient offices at 170 University Drive. Pre-registration is required: 582-2736, press “3” for Yoga
♦ 11am in Northampton: Toddler Time at the Forbes Library. 587-1011 http://www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 11am-12Noon in South Hadley: Parent with infant group at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 http://www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE)
♦ 1pm in Northampton: Baby-friendly movie screening at the Pleasant Street Theater. ($)
♦ 2pm in Florence: Wednesday Farmers’ Market on the lawn at the Florence Civic Center (Route 9) from 2-6pm
♦ 2-6pm in Turners Falls: Great Falls Farmers Market. Located on the corner of 2nd Street and Avenue A. in Turners Falls, right next to the Great Falls Discovery Center.
♦ 3-6pm in Greenfield: Guiding Star Grange Farmer’s Market (401 Chapman Street)
♦ 4pm in Northampton:Parenting/Baby Group at the Forbes Library. Call to pre-register. 587-1011 http://www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 4:15pm in Northampton: Family Yoga for ages 3yo and up at the Hampshire Regional YMCA. 584-7086 (MEMBERS)
♦ 4:30pm in Northampton: Yo-Yo School at A2Z. Come visit yo-yo school and learn to yo-yo for free with A2Z. (FREE)
Thursday – 10/14
6pm in Amherst: Pumpkin Carving Night at Hitchcock Center. Create the elaborate and imaginative pumpkins that light the trails for our Enchanted Forest event. Bring your favorite carving knife and, if you like, a medium-large pumpkin to contribute. Tools & pumpkins on hand. 256-6006 http://www.hitchcockcenter.org (FREE)
6pm in Westfield: Father Goose Tales with puppeteer Jim Napolitano at the Westfield Athenaeum (6 Elm St.). 568-7833 http://www.nappyspuppets.com Westfield, MA (FREE)
6pm in Great Barrington: Parenting Styles by Danielle Shumway Finding common ground & understanding. Parents learn to work together taking steps toward more harmonious family life. Thursday evenings October 7th, 14th, 21st at the CHP Family Services Building (442 Stockbrige Rd.). 644-0104 http://www.communityhealthprograms.org
6pm in Haydenville: Screening of “In Transition” at the Haydenville Congregational Church. There will also be members (Marie Westburg and Laura Porter)from the Williamsburg Transition Town Movement present to answer questions and connect with around the work of making our community more resilient in these challenging times. Event start time 6:00 Film will be shown after a light dinner of soup, salad and bread All are welcome. Please join us to learn about this exciting grassroots movement happening here in your town! (FREE)
♦ 9am in Great Barrington: Kids’ Kitchen with Melanie Seserman at the CHP Family Services Building (442 Stockbridge Rd.). A cooking class for kids 2.5-5yo to learn about healthy food choices. http://www.communityhealthprograms.org 644-0104 (FREE)
♦9am-1pm in Amherst: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse (121 North Pleasant St.). Use rear entrance. 256-1145 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Ware: Drop-in playgroups at the Ware Family Center in the United Church of Ware building (49 Church St.). 967-8127 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11am in South Hadley: Drop-in playgroups at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 http://www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Northampton: Music class at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 9:30am-12:30pm in Belchertown: The Belchertown Family Center (720 Franklin St.) is open for drop-in playgroups for families with children 0-5yo. 283-7594 http://www.belchertownfamilycenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 10:30am in Easthampton: Story hour at the Emily Williston Memorial Library (9 Park St.). http://www.ewmlibrary.org 527-1031
♦ 10am in Florence: Pre-school Story Time at the Lilly Library. 587-1500 http://www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10:30am in Springfield: Preschool Storytime at the Springfield Central Library. Stories, songs, and a craft. Perfect for ages 3-5 years, with siblings welcome. Pre-registration required if you’ll be bringing more than 4 children . 263-6828, x201. http://www.springfieldlibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10:30am in Amherst: Preschool Story Time at the Jones Library in the Children’s Room. http://www.joneslibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 11-11:45am in Lenox: Preschool Story-Craft for children ages three to five at the Lenox Library Association featuring stories, songs and follow-along activities followed by a craft related to the story. 637-0197 x105 (FREE)
♦ 11am in Springfield: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.) until 1pm. Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)
♦ 1pm in Northampton: Baby playgroup at the Forbes Library. 587-1011 http://www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 1-3pm in Great Barrington: Infant/Toddler Playgroup Group at the CHP Family Services Building (442 Stockbridge Rd.) 644-0104 http://www.communityhealthprograms.org (FREE)
♦ 5-8pm in Pittsfield: 3rd Thursdays in downtown Pittsfield. The streets come alive with musicians, artists, activities, sidewalk dining, after hours shopping and much more. 499.9348
Friday – 10/15
11am, 1:15 & 3pm in Northfield: Foliage cruise on the Quinnetukut II Riverboat cruises. Join Captain Steve Larivee and first mate Sarah Doyle for this 12 mile cruise along the scenic Connecticut River. Cruises depart from Barton Cove. Make a reservation: (800) 859-2960 ($)
5-8:30pm in Amherst: Enchanted Forest: Who’s Around Underground. A non-scary Halloween event on the trails at the Hitchcock Center with a cast of characters from different habitats. Children of all ages will enjoy meeting our magical characters as you are guided along the pumpkin-lit trails of Larch Hill Conservation Area. Inside the Center, there will be simple crafts and games and an opportunity to visit with a fortune teller. Must register 256-6006 http://www.hitchcockcenter.org (>$)
5-6:45pm in South Hadley: Munchkin Haunted Hay Rides at McCray’s (55 Alvord St.) for kids 7yo and younger. A gentle, exciting ride for the whole family. 533-0775 ($)
6:30pm in Sunderland: Blood & Guts, A Hands-On Science Learning Experience will be at the Sunderland Public Library (20 School St.). Click HERE for more info. (FREE)
6-9:30pm in Greenfield: Skeleton Crew Theater (SCT) at Camp Kee-Wanee. SCT is a theatrical attraction with a Halloween twist. Think of it as a treasure/scavenger hunt you’ll solve in one evening. Shows are 45/65 minutes long. Dress for the outdoors and bring a flashlight. Not scary or gory, just spooky in a tasteful way. Bad weather cancels. http://www.skeletoncrewtheater.com ($)
7pm in Monson: Family Friendly Haunted Hayrides at Echo Hill Orchards. 267-3303
7pm in Shelburne Falls: Pothole Pictures Fil Series will present, “Ghostbusters” at Memorial Hall Theater (51 Bridge St.) 625-2896 (>$)
7:30pm in Pittsfield: A family performance of The Case of the Missing Mummy by New Stage Theatre Company at the Berkshire Museum. A funny and frightening old-fashioned murder mystery in the tradition of Agatha Christie and the old Universal horror movies. 443-7171 http://www.berkshiremuseum.org ($)
8pm in Turners Falls: Arena Civic Theater presents Annie at the Shea Theater (71 Avenue A). 863-2281 http://www.theshea.org ($)
♦ 7:30am in Lanesboro: Guided hikes on Mount Greylock, followed by an optional breakfast at historic Bascom Lodge. Meet at the Visitors Center (30 Rockwell Rd.) Steve Linscott will lead a moderate to strenuous hike. 499-4262 (FREE HIKE; $ FOOD)
♦ 9am-12Noon in Amherst: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse (121 North Pleasant St.). Use rear entrance. 256-1145 (FREE)
♦ 9:30am in Amherst: Pre-school Spanish immersion program for kids under 6yo at the First Baptist Church. (954) 829-5233 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-10:30am in Holyoke: Read to Grow preschool program at the Children’s Museum (444 Dwight St.). 536-5437 (>$)
♦ 10am in Florence: Mother Goose: Music, Stories and Movement – at the Lilly Library. 587-1500 http://www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10am & 11am in Pittsfield: Aquarium Adventures. Each week children ages 2-4 meet a different animal from Berkshire Museum’s aquarium and watch as their new friend enjoys a meal. Story time is included. Free with Museum admission.
♦ 11am in Sunderland: Story/craft time for kids ages 3-5yo and their families at the Sunderland Pulic Library (20 School St.). Each storytime is approximately 45 minutes in length for theme-related stories, songs, finger plays and crafts! 665-2642 sunderlandpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 11am in Greenfield: Mother Goose on the Loose makes early learning lots of hands-on fun with songs, rhymes, and activities geared for the 3 and under audience. http://www.greenfieldpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 2pm in Springfield: Planetarium show at the Springfield Museum. 263-6800 http://www.springfieldmuseums.org (>$)
5:30-7pm in Northampton: Family Fun Fridays at the Northampton YMCA in the gym. Free for members. 584.7086 http://www.hrymca.org (>$)