Hilltown Families 
Suggested Events for August 18th-24th, 2012
Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
The Heath Fair is a quintessential Western MA agricultural fair. With the absence of a midway, the fair brings families simple entertainment, with traditional games like tug-o-war, potato sack races and climbing the rope ladder, a community chicken BBQ for lunch on Sunday and live music by excellent local musicians. The 95th annual Heath Fair begins this Friday, Aug. 17th and runs through the weekend. (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.
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BEST BETS
Things to Do & Places to See in Western MA this Summer!
Friday-Sunday, August 17th-19th in Franklin Cty. – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The annual Heath Fair kicks off on Friday, Aug. 17th from 5-11pm! Highlights for Friday night include live music (including Rani Arbo and Daisy Mayhem!), cheese making demonstrations, and family square dancing! All day Saturday, families can learn about local agriculture and meet animals of all kinds (there’s even an ADGA goat show!), go on a wagon ride, hear live music, see demonstrations of sheep herding, beekeeping, and herbal medicine. On Sunday events include youth sheep and cattle shows, a performance by the Heath School Strings, live music from the Sweetback Sisters and the Shelburne Falls Military Band, wagon rides, a community parade, and more! 9 Hosmer Road. Heath, MA. ($)
Saturday-Sunday, August 18th-19th in Berkshire Cty. – CULTURAL STUDIES/GREEK: OPA! Spend the weekend in Greece, without the travel! St. George Greek Orthodox Church is hosting their annual Grecian Festival this weekend, 11am-8pm on Saturday and 12noon-6pm on Sunday – families can visit to enjoy a day filled with Greek food, music, dance/dancing, a marketplace, and more! Kids can learn about Greek culture, as well as the role that religion plays within it, at the festival, and will also be able to learn about Greek-American life and the prevalence of Greek culture within the local community. 413-441-8113. 73 Bradford Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, August 19th in Franklin Cty. – COMMUNITY DINNER: The annual Free Harvest Supper takes place on Sunday, Aug. 19th from 4:30-6:30pm on the Greenfield Town Common! The dinner brings together over 50 local farms and hundreds of volunteers in order to offer a delicious local community meal. All are welcome to join in sharing this truly community celebration event, which features a bountiful meal of locally grown food prepared by local chefs, live music, children’s activities, educational displays and a Really, Really Free Market. Guests are asked to bring their own place settings, so as to keep the event as waste-free as possible! Greenfield, MA. (FREE)
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Thursday-Sunday, August 23rd-26th in the Hilltowns – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The annual and beloved Cummington Fair takes place all weekend! Opens at 4pm on Thurs., 1pm on Fri. and 9am on Sat/Sun. Weekend highlights – along with the opportunity to learn about farming and farm animals, local industries, and agriculture – include antique tractor show, circus performances, kids pumpkin contest, magic shows, 4H sheep contest, along with midway rides, games. 97 Fairgrounds Road. Cummington, MA. ($)
Saturday, August 25th in the Pioneer Valley – BACK TO SCHOOL CELEBRATION: School is starting soon! Celebrate the return of school bus rides, fun learning, and bag lunches at Springfield Public Schools’ back to school celebration from 10am-2pm. There will be performances and demonstrations, as well as free backpacks and school supplies for the first 5,000 students to visit. Takes place at Blunt Park. 413-787-7908. 2460 Roosevelt Avenue. Springfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 25th in the Berkshires – HISTORY: Many artisanal skills, now rare, were once necessary for survival – Ashley House hosts a day where families can learn about the many different skills necessary for running a household from 11am-3pm. Visitors can try spinning wool, caring for animals, cooking, and more! There will also be demonstrations of all sorts for families to view. 413-298-3239 ex 3305. Stockbridge, MA. (<$)
BULLETIN BOARD
SCHOOL OPENINGS: The Montessori School of Northampton currently has openings for fall 2012 in their Little Children’s House classroom. Meeting three mornings per week, this class is an introduction to Montessori for children age 2 years to 3 years 6 months by September 1. For more information, visit their website at www.northamptonmontessori.org or contact Laura, their Director of Admissions, at 413-586-4538 x103.
SLEEP WORKSHOP: Awaiting the arrival of a new baby? Join other expectant parents for a sleep workshop, “Sleep for Expectant Parents,” on Monday, Aug. 20th from 6-8pm in Hampshire County. This workshop will offer a look into the world of sleep science and its clear implications for families. Learn why sleep is essential for your newborn and hear concrete strategies to help you and your baby develop healthy sleep habits in the first months of life. Recommended by area pediatricians and obstetricians. Led by Beth Grams Haxby Ed.M. and held at The Center for Midwifery at Cooley Dickinson Hospital in Northampton, MA. Cost: $20.00 payable by cash or check. Call or email to register: 413-348-6273 or beth@sleepandparenting.com.
CALL FOR YOUTH PHOTOGRAPHERS: Western MA youth photographers ages 8-18 are invited to participate in an upcoming exhibit titled, “Places We Live, Play & Learn: Narratives of Life by Western Massachusetts Youth Photographers.” Hosted by Hilltown Families with the support of the Cummington Cultural Council, the exhibit will be on display at the Cummington Community House Gallery in the rear of the Cummington Community House during the month of September 2012. Exhibit gives youth an opportunity to explore their towns and document their findings both in images and a written narrative. Great summer learning opportunity! Participation is free and open to all youth living in Western MA. Deadline for entry: Aug 27, 2012. More info and entry forms here: Call for Youth Photographers.
SPONSORSHIP & ADVERTISING: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. See your event, camp, workshop, business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter. Find out more about our Enhanced Publicity options and how we can help with your marketing.
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BENEFIT CONCERT: The Connecticut River Watershed Council (CRWC) proudly presents “Goodnight Irene”; a benefit concert for the annual Source to Sea Cleanup. This powerful event, with singers from throughout the watershed, will bring communities together to celebrate resilience in the wake of Tropical Storm Irene. Join CRWC on Tuesday, August 28, 2012 at Deerfield Academy, Deerfield, MA, 7:00pm Tickets $10, on sale at CRWC Greenfield office. For other ticket sales locations, about the music and singers, and other details go to www.ctriver.org.
ENTER TO WIN FAMILY DINNER: Who loves pizza?! In honor of CISA’S Local Hero Restaurant Days, planned for Aug. 21st & 22nd, Hilltown Families is giving away a $40 gift certificate to one of the 51 Local Hero participating restaurants – Hillside Pizza! Enter to win by emailing your favorite family dinner recipe for inclusion in our Season at the Table series to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com by 12noon on Monday, Aug. 20th. We’ll select one family from all who submit a recipe to receive a gift certificate to Hillside Pizza. Then get out and enjoy a well balanced local food meal on Aug. 21st & 22nd at any of the participating restaurants who are commitment to buying locally grown produce and products and will be highlighting local specials on their menus during Local Hero Restaurant Days! Visit CISA for a list of Local Hero restaurants and their featured menus.
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS:
August 18th-24th, 2012
Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Farmers’ Markets
Weekly eNewsletter | Summer Playgroups
Events Happening in the Hilltowns | ♦ On-going Events
Saturday, August 18th, 2012
“We love to go to the Heath Fair! It’s the perfect family day trip. Be sure to watch the herding dogs, eat lots of good food and jump into the cross cut saw competition!!” — Zoe Johnson (Ashfield, MA)
6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including the Hilltown Family Variety Show and Spare the Rock. Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org.
9-10am – HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW: Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. Listen to the Hilltown Family Variety Show podcast anytime. Click here to see over 5 years of archived shows.
8am-10pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: Visit the Heath Fair! Families can learn about local agriculture and meet animals of all kinds (there’s even an ADGA goat show today!), go on a wagon ride, hear live music, see demonstrations of sheep herding, beekeeping, herbal medicine, and more! 9 Hosmer Road. Heath, MA. ($)
9am – AVIATION: Hampshire County Radio Controllers host the annual Scale Fly-In this weekend! Families who fly remote control planes can bring their plane to the location to fly, but a plane is not required to attend! Families can also learn about radio controlled planes and the basics of piloting one at the event – pairs well with basic physics studies! 413-569-0202. Honeypot Road. Hadley, MA. (<$)
9am-10pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: Visit the Westfield Fair! There are animals to visit and learn about, midway games, locally made arts and crafts, live music, and more! Fair Lane. Westfield, MA. ($)
9am-5pm – 4-H YOUTH FAIR: Berkshire 4-H Youth Fair and Horse Gymkhana are today. There will be farm animals, a horse show, Exhibit Hall, entertainment, milking contest, games for kids, bouncy house, and much much more. It’s a wonderful family event put on by the teen 4-H Fairgrounds club. The teens work all year to put on this event. So, come have fun and show your support for 4-H! Utility Dr. off Holmes Rd. Pittsfield, MA (FREE)
9:30am-5pm – HISTORY/TEXTILES: It’s Textile Weekend at Old Sturbridge Village! There will be special events and presentations throughout the day, all about textile making, sewing and quilting. Visitors can learn about using quilts to piece together parts of history, make their own quilt squares or pockets, learn to card wool, see exhibits of 19th century quilts, and more! 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. ($)
10am – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE/HIKE: Hike the Outer Bray Lake Trail at Mt. Tom! The hike will be lead by a ranger and be of moderate pace and length. 413-527-4805. Route 5. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)
10-11am – CULINARY ARTS: Kids can learn to make a super healthy breakfast today at the Berkshire Co-op! This special cooking workshop will teach recipes for coconut quinoa breakfast cereal and a blueberry smoothie – using local blueberries! Call to register. 413-528-9697. 42 Bridge Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
10-11:30am – SCIENCE ADVENTURE/SOLAR POWER: Learn about how solar power works at Northfield Mountain! Hosted by educator Rachel Roberts, the workshop is open to kids ages 9+. Participants will do a variety of hands-on science and art projects connecting them with the general concepts of solar power, supporting their learning of power and how energy is generated. Weather permitting, will include a tour of Northfield Mountain’s solar facility! Call to register. 800-859-2960. Millers Falls Road. Northfield, MA. (FREE)
10am-1pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE/LANGUAGE ARTS: Explore the Bryant Homestead, former home of poet William Cullen Bryant. Visitors will explore the towering old-growth forest in which Bryant spent his youth – in fact, it inspired his work! 413-532-1631. Bryant Road. Cummington, MA. (<$)
10am-2pm – SALE: The Plainfield Congregational Church’s annual LBS Fair takes place today! Lots of gently used new-to-you goods, crafts, and baked items! 286 Main Street. Plainfield, MA. (SALE)
10am-4pm – SHOP LOCAL/HANDMADE: View work by local artist and craftspeople at the Stockbridge Summer Arts and Crafts Show! Over 90 artists and artisans will be displaying work – everything from hand blown glass to gloves. 413-298-5200. 50 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA. (SALE)
10am-9pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: It’s Elihu Burritt Day in New Marlborough today! The celebration includes music, food, games, in honor of Elihu Burritt, a pioneer in the world peace movement who came to New Marlborough in 1830. It’s a celebration of the village’s history and the local community! A community Pig Roast happens from 5-7pm at the Fire House. 413-229-2369. New Marlborough, MA. (FREE/$ FOR DINNER)
10am, 11am, 12noon, or 1pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE/KAYAKING: Learn to kayak on Littleville Lake! The event is being offered by the Southern Hilltowns Adult Education Center, and is a fundraiser for their programs. All equipment, as well as supervision and training, will be provided! Great for those interested in kayaking but without equipment. Registration for a one-hour time slot required. 413-685-1052. Chester/Huntington, MA. (FUNDRAISER)
10:30am-12:30pm – GEOLOGY/HIKE: Learn about the geology of the Holyoke Range and how the range (and the Pioneer Valley) was created at Skinner State Park! The event is a guided hike that will cover 3-3.5 miles – wear appropriate footwear and bring water and a snack. 413-586-0350. Hadley Street (Route 47). Hadley, MA. (FREE)
11am – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Family-friendly scavenger hut will be led by MASS MoCA educational staff. There will be creative ways to explore displayed art and make art. 87 Marshall Street. North Adams, MA ($)
11am – CHILDREN’S THEATER: Whose glass slipper was left on the palace stairs last night?! Find out at Berkshire Children’s Theater’s production of Cinderella, performed at the Berkshire Museum’s Little Cinema! 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. ($)
11am-12noon – LOCAL HISTORY/ARCHITECTURE: Visit Naumkeag for an interactive tour, designed just for kids! Become a member of the Choate family, who once lived in the historic home, while learning about the building’s history and the stories it holds! 413-298-3239. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. (<$)
11am-2pm – FAMILY HISTORY: Mission House hosts a family history day! Families can visit to create scrapbooks to fill with memories, dress in colonial clothing and take a family photo, and learn about methods of recording family history. 413-298-3239 ex 3352. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. (<$)
11am-2pm – ANIMAL ADOPTION DAY: The Berkshire Humane Society will be at the Berkshire Museum with adorable cats and gerbils in need of good homes. There will be related programs, games, and activities, including a StoryWalk program, throughout the adoption day. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA ($)
11am-8pm – CULTURAL STUDIES/GREEK: OPA! Spend the day in Greece, without the travel! St. George Greek Orthodox Church is hosting their annual Grecian Festival this weekend – families can visit to enjoy a day filled with Greek food, music, dance/dancing, a marketplace, and more! Kids can learn about Greek culture, as well as the role that religion plays within it, at the festival, and will also be able to learn about Greek-American life and the prevalence of Greek culture within the local community. 413-441-8113. 73 Bradford Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
1-2pm – CULTURAL STUDIES/NATIVE AMERICAN: Visit Mission House for a program on folklore and stories of Native Americans! 413-298-3239. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. (<$)
1-4pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE/WATERFALLS: Explore the waterfalls of Mt. Greylock! Each weekly hike will take visitors on a hike to explore a waterfall – great on a hot summer day! Meet at the visitors center. 413-499-4262. Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦
2pm – STORYTIME: At the Eric Carle Museum, featuring author/illustrator Carin Berger, who uses found materials to craft collage illustrations. 413-625-1100. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. (<$)
2pm-12midnight – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: Celebrate the tail end of summer at Peru’s annual Summerfest! The event features live music, delicious food, family activities, antique car show, bonfire at dusk, and takes place next to the town hall. Route 143. Peru, MA. (FREE)
1pm, 2pm & 3pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Skinner State Park was once home to a tramway that brought visitors up the mountain. Visit the park to hear firsthand accounts of travelers who took the tram, and to learn about the engineering behind the unique form of transportation. 413-586-0350. Hadley, MA. (FREE)
4pm – COMMUNITY DINNER: Enjoy a community grilled chicken dinner at the Ashfield Rod and Gun Club’s annual chicken barbecue! There will be raffles along with the delicious food. 413-634-5535. 161 North Street. Plainfield, MA. ($)
4-5:30pm – FISHING: Interested in learning how to fish? Rangers at the Holyoke Range are offering a workshop this afternoon! Best for older anglers, the workshop will take place at Aldrich Lake and equipment will be provided. Call to register. 413-253-2883. Amherst Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
4:30-5:30pm – PHYSICS: Learn yo-yo tricks at A2Z this afternoon! Lead by world class pros, Yo-Yo School teaches kids basic yo-yo tricks. Learning to yo-yo is a great supplement to studies of motion and physics! 413-586-1611. 57 King Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
6:15pm – OUTDOOR DANCE: Students from the School at Jacob’s Pillow present an evening of jazz dance on the Inside/Out stage as part of the school’s summer performance series! 413-243-9919. 358 George Carter Road. Becket, MA. (FREE)
7-10:30pm – OUTDOOR FILM: It’s 80’s night at Peseonskut Park! The Shea Theater hosts an outdoor movie night, featuring two beloved classics – “The Goonies” and “Back to the Future!” BYO seating – popcorn provided. 413-210-7706. Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)
PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
6-9pm – CELTIC MUSIC: The Blackburn Inn hosts Celtic musicians Kira Jewett, TJ Ezold, and Dave Meuser (members of Banish Misfortune)! Reservations suggested – enjoy live Irish music along with your delicious dinner. 413-238-0144. 144 Huntington Road. Worthington, MA.
8pm – COMEDY: Mass MoCA presents an evening with Ophira Eisenberg, host of NPR’s show, “Ask Me Another.” Named on of the top 100 comics by New York Magazine, Eisenberg is fun and witty! 800-662-2111. Mass MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. ($$)
Sunday, August 19th, 2012
“Blueberry picking is a “have to” summer activity in Western MA- we love Bird Haven in Southampton. Also, The Wagon Wheel in Gill is a great local drive-in. If you’re looking for a fun ice cream experience and a scenic country drive, this is a good stop on Rt. 2.” — Anne Schlereth
8am-5pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The Heath Fair is winding down today – events include youth sheep and cattle shows, a performance by the Heath School Strings, live music from the Sweetback Sisters and the Shelburne Falls Military Band, wagon rides, a community parade, and more! 9 Hosmer Road. Heath, MA. ($)
9am – AVIATION: Hampshire County Radio Controllers host the annual Scale Fly-In this weekend! Families who fly remote control planes can bring their plane to the location to fly, but a plane is not required to attend! Families can also learn about radio controlled planes and the basics of piloting one at the event – pairs well with basic physics studies! 413-569-0202. Honeypot Road. Hadley, MA. (<$)
9am-12noon – COMMUNITY SERVICE: Help out at the Just Roots Food for All Garden! Vegetables grown will be donated to local hunger relief organizations. Glenbrook Drive. Greenfield, MA. (VOLUNTEER) ♦
9am-3pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: Visit the Westfield Fair! There are animals to visit and learn about, midway games, locally made arts and crafts, live music, and more! Fair Lane. Westfield, MA. ($)
9:30am-5pm – HISTORY/TEXTILE: It’s Textile Weekend at Old Sturbridge Village! There will be special events and presentations throughout the day, all about textile making, sewing and quilting. Visitors can learn about using quilts to piece together parts of history, make their own quilt squares or pockets, learn to card wool, see exhibits of 19th century quilts, and more! 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. ($)
10am and 2pm – HIKE/BOTANICAL STUDIES: Go on a medicine plant walk at Mt. Greylock! The walk will be easy, and will focus on teaching visitors to identify plants with medicinal properties. Meet at the visitors center. 413-499-4262. Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦
10am, 11am, 1pm & 2pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Natural Bridge State Park hosts Marvelous Marble Walks on both Saturday and Sundays, where visitors can learn about the marble quarry that once operated nearby. Kids can learn about important local and natural history! 413-663-6392. McCauley Road. North Adams, MA. (FREE, >$ FOR PARKING) ♦
10am-4pm – SHOP LOCAL/HANDMADE: View work by local artist and craftspeople at the Stockbridge Summer Arts and Crafts Show! Over 90 artists and artisans will be displaying work – everything from hand blown glass to gloves. 413-298-5200. 50 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA. (SALE)
10:30-11:30am – ORNITHOLOGY: Hone your birding skills at Mt. Tom! Rangers will help visitors learn to search for birds, and visitors will get to try out their new skills around the park. 413-527-4805. Route 5. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)
11am-12noon – LOCAL HISTORY: Tour Naumkeag, a historic home, and be treated like one of the family! The hands-on tour immerses visitors in the sights and sounds of life at Naumkeag in decades past. 413-298-3239 ex 3352. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. ($)
11am-3pm – BACK-TO-SCHOOL/HAIR CUTS!: The first annual Hair-A-Thon takes place today at Union Station – the event is being offered to provide kids with back-to-school trims, if visiting a salon/barbershop for a cut is not possible or causes a family financial difficulty. Kids can get their split ends snipped or go for an entirely new style. Either way, cuts are free and will leave kiddos’ hair newly styled and ready for back-to-school. 69 Union Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
12noon-5pm – FUNDRAISER: Help raise money for Kane’s Krusade, an organization that helps dogs in need in the Springfield area, at their first annual cookout! The event will take place at King Phillip’s Stockade (across the street from the entrance to Forest Park), and will feature food, live music, games, and a chance to meet hero dogs! 413-363-2102. Route 5. Springfield, MA. ($$)
12noon-6pm – CULTURAL STUDIES/GREEK: OPA! Spend the day in Greece, without the travel! St. George Greek Orthodox Church is hosting their annual Grecian Festival this weekend – families can visit to enjoy a day filled with Greek food, music, dance/dancing, a marketplace, and more! Kids can learn about Greek culture, as well as the role that religion plays within it, at the festival, and will also be able to learn about Greek-American life and the prevalence of Greek culture within the local community. 413-441-8113. 73 Bradford Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
1pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURE: The Eric Carle Museum is offering a special guided gallery tour of their current exhibit, featuring work by author and illustrator Ezra Jack Keats. Students can learn about Keats’s portrayal of city life – done seamlessly within stories that kids in all places can relate to – and how subtle variations in illustrations help to change the tone of a story. 413-625-1100. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. (<$)
1-1:15pm or 3-3:15pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Visit Skinner State Park to learn about the history of the Summit House – once a tourist destination, the house is now undergoing renovations to once again be used to bring visitors to the park for the magnificent views. 413-586-0350. Hadley Street. Hadley, MA. (FREE)
1-3pm – CHESS: An informal Chess Club is beginning at the Lilly Library. Participants are encouraged to supplement existing chess boards by bringing their own too. 413-587-1500. 19 Meadow Street. Florence, MA (FREE) ♦
1-3:30pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE/HIKE: Hike the Holyoke Range’s Mt. Hitchcock! Beginning at the Notch Visitors Center , the hike will be lead by a park ranger and will be 2-3 miles long. Dress appropriately! 413-253-2883. 1500 West Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
3pm – CRAFTS: Visit Natural Bridge State Park for nature crafts! Make your own creation out of natural objects. 413-663-6392. McCauley Road. North Adams, MA. (FREE, >$ Parking) ♦
4:30-6:30pm – COMMUNITY DINNER: The annual Free Harvest Supper takes place tonight on the Greenfield Town Common! The dinner brings together over 50 local farms and hundreds of volunteers in order to offer a delicious local community meal. Guests are asked to bring their own place settings, so as to keep the event as waste-free as possible! Greenfield, MA. (FREE)
4-5pm – ANIMAL ADVENTURE: Explore the Tolland State Forest and learn about herps – a term referring to reptiles and amphibians – and the role that they play within the local ecosystem with Teaching Creatures! 413-269-6002. Route 8. East Otis, MA.
6pm – LAWN CONCERT: Stanley Park’s summer concert series features tons of family-friendly performers! 413-568-9312. 400 Western Avenue. Westfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
6pm – CULTURAL STUDIES/DRUMMING: Drum away the evening atop the summit of Mt. Greylock! Bascom Lodge and Tamarack Hollow present a program for families featuring Haitian, Cuban, and West African drumming – the songs focus on the natural world, and families will learn about basic drum techniques. E-mail aimee@gaiaroots.com to register. 413-527-5386. Lanesborough, MA. ($)
Monday, August 20th, 2012
Jones Library in Amherst will be closed today.
9-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Amherst Family Center is open for a short summer session! Play, socialize, and have snack and circle time! 413-545-2129. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
10:15am – STORYTIME: Kids starting kindergarten are invited to a special storytime at the Wilbraham Public Library! The event will feature stories about kids beginning school, as well as a chance to meet other kids entering kindergarten – plus the opportunity to explore a school bus! Call to register. 413-596-6141. 25 Crane Park Drive. Wilbraham, MA. (FREE)
11am and 2pm – MARIONETTES: The Robbins-Zust Marionettes present, “Winnie the Pooh,” at Saint Paul’s Church! 29 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA. (<$)
3pm and 6pm – FILM: The Whately Library screens, “The Artist,” a movie about a silent film star, a dancer, and how talking movies changes their careers! 13+. 413-665-2170. 202 Chestnut Plain Road. Whately, MA. (FREE)
7pm – MOVIE: The Tilton Library will screen The Hunger Games tonight – attendees should bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Before the screening, there will be dinner provided – made up of foods eaten in the movie. Registration required. 413-665-4638. 75 North Main Street. South Deerfield, MA. (DONATION)
7:30pm – HISTORY/MYSTERY TOUR: Take a spooky mystery tour of The Mount tonight… beware – you never know what you might encounter! Visitors will not only be thoroughly creeped out, but will learn some of the building’s interesting history. 413-997-4444. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. ($$)
PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
7:30pm – PERFORMANCE: Berkshire Theater Group hosts QWAN Company for an evening of parodied dramatic readings. NOTES!!! and SWAN!!!, the readings performed, are based respectively on the films Notes on a Scandal and Black Swan. The event takes place at the Colonial Theater, and offers a fresh (and funny) new take on appreciating pop culture. 413-298-5576. 111 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. ($$)
SUMMER ONGOING FOR MONDAYS
- 10am- STORYTIME: The Shutesbury Library’s story hour is this morning. Enjoy an hour of stories, songs, games and crafts. 413-259-1213. 10 Cooleyville Road. Shutesbury, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10am-4pm – HIKE: Go for a hike at Mt. Greylock. The trek is somewhat strenuous – wear sturdy footwear! Bring your own lunch, too. Meet at the Visitors Center to carpool to location. 413-499-4262. Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 2pm – STORYTIME: At the Eric Carle Museum! Kids can enjoy a story, then learn about how illustration helps to tell stories, too. Storytimes take place daily at the museum – check for time changes. 413-658-1100. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. (<$)
- 3pm – STORYTIME: Mountain View Farm hosts storytime. Farm-themed stories galore. 413-329-0211. 393 East Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 5:30-6:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Gym Group at the Haskins Center has moved outside for the summer! Enjoy group playground time on the center’s playscape. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
Tuesday, August 21st, 2012
LOCAL FOOD: CISA’s Local Hero Restaurant Days happen today and tomorrow! Support local farmers and local businesses by eating at one (or a few!) of the participating restaurants, including Black Sheep Deli in Amherst, Cup and Top Cafe in Florence, Esselon Cafe in Hadley, GoBerry and Local Burger in Northampton, the People’s Pint in Greenfield, and more!
11am and 2pm – MARIONETTES: The Robbins-Zust Marionettes present, “Beauty and the Beast,” at Saint Paul’s Church! 29 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA. (<$)
3pm – LITERACY: The Monson Library is hosting a visit from Ruth Sanderson, author of The Twelve Dancing Princesses! Meet the author and learn about her book, then have a princess party! 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE)
4:30-8:30pm – OUTDOOR CONCERT/COMMUNITY DINNER: The Amherst Community Band performs tonight on the South Amherst Common! There will be a chicken barbecue along with the concert – so bring your appetite. 413-253-2977. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
SUMMER ONGOING FOR TUESDAYS
- 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Hosted by the Northampton Parents Center at the Jackson Street School playground. 413-582-2636. Jackson Street. Northampton, MA. ♦
- 10-11am – STORYTIME: For kids ages 3-6 at the Greenfield Library. There will be a new craft every week along with the exciting stories. 413-772-1544. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. ♦
- 10-10:40am – PLAYGROUP: At Treehouse! Lead by a parent volunteer – new activities each week! For kids ages 2-4, siblings welcome. 413-344-4435. 305 North Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Literacy-based drop-in playgroup at the Greenfield Family Center. 413-475-1553. 90 Federal Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: At the Palmer-Monson Family Network. 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10:30-11:30am – STORYTIME: Visit the Chicopee Library for an adventure story and craft time. 413-594-1800. 449 Front Street. Chicopee, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10:30am – MUSIC: Sing-a-long time for pre-schoolers at the Hubbard Library! 413-583-3408. 24 Center Street. Ludlow, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10:30-11:30am – ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE: Visit the Great Falls Discovery Center for Kidleidescope, an environment-themed program for kids. Interactive learning opportunities and crafts always included. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10:15am-12:15pm – SUPPORT GROUP: MotherWoman hosts a Postpartum Support Group for mothers. The group is a safe space for those adjusting to motherhood and is lead by trained facilitators. Takes place at Berkshire Children and Families. Childcare available. 413-253-8990. 220 Russell Street. Hadley, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 1pm and 3pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Explore Natural Bridge State Park on a Tyke Hike! The short, kid-friendly expedition is lead by a park interpreter, who will share information on the natural wonders at the park. 413-663-6392. McCauley Road. North Adams, MA. (FREE, <$ Parking) ♦
- 3-4pm – PLAYGROUP: Drop-in crawl time for infants at Treehouse! 413-344-4435. 305 North Street. Pittsfield, MA. ♦
- 3-5pm – TEEN: It’s Teen Tuesday at the Chicopee Library – visit for a new activity every week. 413-594-1800. 449 Front Street. Chicopee, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 3-6pm – TEEN: The Hubbard Library hosts Teen Anime Club. Anime enthusiasts can watch movies or episodes of anime shows, and share information (and enthusiasm!) for anime. 413-548-3408 ex 3. 24 Center Street. Ludlow, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 4pm – BIKING ADVENTURE: Join the Trustees of Reservations for a community bike ride, and explore Holyoke! Meet at the Holyoke YMCA. Bikes available to borrow if necessary, all abilities welcome. 413-532-1631 x19. 160 Beech Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 22nd, 2012
LOCAL FOOD: Today is the last day of CISA’s Local Hero Restaurant Days! Support local farmers and local businesses by eating at one (or a few!) of the participating restaurants, including Black Sheep Deli in Amherst, Cup and Top Cafe in Florence, Esselon Cafe in Hadley, GoBerry and Local Burger in Northampton, the People’s Pint in Greenfield, and more!
9-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Amherst Family Center is open for a short summer session! Play, socialize, and have snack and circle time! 413-545-2129. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
11am and 2pm – MARIONETTES: The Robbins-Zust Marionettes present, “Carnival of the Animals,” at Saint Paul’s Church! 29 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA. (<$)
12noon-4pm – LOCAL HISTORY: The Shelburne Historical Society is open today! Visit the former school building to check out lots of local artifacts and memorabilia and learn about the evolution of the local community! Learning about local history can help students put American History into a meaningful, locally-based context. 413-625-6150. Church and Maple Streets. Shelburne, MA. (FREE)
1-3pm – CHESS: Drop-in chess for all ages and abilities at the Forbes Library. Playing chess can help kids work on logic and strategy development. Bring your own set or use one from the library, and enhance your skills by practicing! 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)
2-3:30pm – LEGOS: Kiddos can visit the Monson Library to experiment with LEGOS – the blocks provide a fun and mess-free way for kids to learn about basic principles of architecture, design, and physics. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE)
5:30-6:30pm – TENNIS: The Amherst Tennis Group is offering an adult tennis clinic today, open to anyone 14+. The clinic will take place on the courts at Amherst Middle School, and is helpful for those at the beginner or intermediate stages. Registration required, space is limited. 413-559-1370. 21 Matoon Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
6-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Live on the Lake takes place tonight at Onota Lake! Tonight’s band is Static – BYO comfy seating! Additional parking and shuttle service available from Taconic High School. Pecks Road. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
7pm – MOVIE: The New Marlborough Library is screening The Hunger Games tonight, and will be collecting non-perishable food items as admission to donate to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts! 413-229-6668. Great Barrington Road. New Marlborough, MA. (DONATION)
SUMMER ONGOING FOR WEDNESDAYS
- 10am – HIKE: Hike at Mt. Greylock! Every Wednesday, there’s a “Nice and Easy” family-friendly hike – it’s about two hours long and will cover 1-2 miles of trail. Call to find out meeting place. 413-499-4262. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10am – STORYTIME: At the MN Spear Library! 413-259-1213. 10 Cooleyville Road. Shutesbury, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10am – STORYTIME: Preschool Storytime at the Northfield Library. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10-11:30am – ART: The Norman Rockwell Museum hosts, “Creating Together: A Parent-Child Experience,” an art workshop featuring a gallery tour and hands-on art making. Each week brings a new theme and art style to explore. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183 Stockbridge, MA. ($) ♦
- 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Literacy-based drop-in playgroup at the Greenfield Family Center. 413-475-1553. 90 Federal Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 11am – STORYTIME: At Odyssey Bookshop! Includes a fun craft, too. 413-534-7307. 9 College Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Wendell Free Library hosts the Community Network for Children’s playgroup for kids ages 0-5. There will be activities for gross motor skills, stories, and art activities. 978-544-5157. 7 Wendell Depot Road. Wendell, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10:30am – STORYTIME: At the Monson Free Library! 267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10:30-11:30am – STORYTIME: Visit the Leverett Public Library for the Community Network for Children’s story hour. Kids ages 0-5 can enjoy stories, hands-on science activities, and art projects. 413-548-9220. 75 Montague Road. Leverett, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 11am-12noon – SUPPORT GROUP: New Moms Group takes place at Treehouse! Intended for moms with babies under 9 months – drop in and get support from others experiencing similar things. 413-344-4435. 305 North Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 2pm – SCRABBLE: At the Westhampton Library on every second and fourth Wednesday. Kids can practice spelling, vocabulary, and basic math skills by playing. 413-527-5386. 1 North Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 3pm – FARM ADVENTURE: Visit Mountain View Farm for a farm activity for pre-school kids. 413-329-0211. 393 East Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 4-7pm – COMMUNITY SERVICE: Help out at the Just Roots Food for All Garden. Vegetables grown will be donated to local hunger relief organizations. Glenbrook Drive. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 6-8pm – OUTDOOR CONCERT: Live on the Lake, a community concert series, takes place tonight on the shore of Onota Lake! Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy great family-friendly live music. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 6:15pm – OUTDOOR DANCE: Jacob’s Pillow hosts free outdoor dance performance as part of the summer Inside/Out series. Kids can learn about professional dance, and dance and movement as artistic expression. Best for kids with audience skills. 413-243-9919. 385 George Carter Road. Becket, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 6:30pm – LAWN CONCERT: The Porter-Phelps-Huntington House Museum hosts outdoor music in their sunken garden! Open to picnickers at 5pm. 413-584-4699. 130 River Drive. Hadley, MA. ($)
- 7pm – LAWN CONCERT: Enjoy live music at Lilac Park! Each week features great local performers. In case of rain, the show will take place at the town hall. Main Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 7pm – LAWN CONCERT: Every other Wednesday at Conant Park. Rain or shine. Southampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 7:30pm – CONCERT: Watermelon Wednesdays at the West Whately Chapel feature a variety of great bands, musicians, and singer-songwriters. Check the schedule for a list of performers. Advance tickets suggested. Conway and Williamsburg Roads. Whately, MA. ($$) ♦
Thursday, August 23rd, 2012
t9-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Amherst Family Center is open for a short summer session! Play, socialize, and have snack and circle time! 413-545-2129. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
11am – LITERARY ARTS: Acclaimed picture book author, Eileen Rosenthal, and award winning author and illustrator, Marc Rosenthal, will read and illustrate portions of their new picture book, I’ll Save You Bobo! in the Lenox Library’s reading park. A mini-book making craft will follow the presentation. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing. This program is most appropriate for ages 3 to 7. Lenox, MA (FREE)
11am and 2pm – MARIONETTES: The Robbins-Zust Marionettes present, “Sleeping Beauty,” at Saint Paul’s Church! 29 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA. (<$)
3-5pm – LAWN GAMES: Naumkeag hosts a final afternoon of “Croquet on the Lawn.” Families can come for a relaxed game of croquet, the leisurely sport of Edwardian high-society. Experience Gilded-Age style and splendor at this marvelous estate. Refreshments served. 413-298-3239 x3352. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA (>$)
4-9:30pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR : The annual and beloved Cummington Fair takes place all weekend! Tonight’s highlights – along with the opportunity to learn about farming and farm animals, local industries, and agriculture – include an antique tractor show, circus performances, a kids pumpkin contest, and a truck pull. 97 Fairgrounds Road. Cummington, MA. ($)
5:30-6:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Will your family be adequately insured if you are in a car accident? The Meekins Library is hosting a workshop for parents on safe driving and insuring families, lead by a professional from Liberty Mutual. The event will also feature information on safe driving for teens, as well as Q+A and hypothetical examples of incidents requiring insurance claims and their outcomes. 413-268-7473. 2 Williams Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE)
6:30pm – STORYTIME: Hop into pajamas and visit the Monson Library for pajama storytime! Lots of fun bedtime stories. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE)
SUMMER ONGOING FOR THURSDAYS
- 9:30-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Hosted by the Northampton Parents’ Center at the Little Playground at Look Park. 413-582-2636. 300 North Main Street. Florence, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10am-12noon – SCRABBLE: Scrabble Club meets at the Chicopee Library! Practice spelling and vocabulary skills while having fun playing the game! 413-594-1800. 449 Front Street. Chicopee, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10:30-11:30am – STORYTIME: At the New Salem Library! 978-544-5157. 21 South Main St. New Salem., MA (FREE) ♦
- 10:30-11:30am – MUSIC: Chicopee Library hosts music and movement class for kids! Best for kids 5 and under. 413-594-1800. 449 Front Street. Chicopee, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 11am – AQUARIUM ADVENTURE: Meet an animal at the Berkshire Museum! Friends from the aquarium will be shared, and kids can learn all about them through stories and activities. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (<$) ♦
- 11am-12noon – STORYTIME: Preschool storytime at the Hatfield Library! 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 11:30am-12:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Outside at the Haskins Center’s playground! 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 2pm – CRAFTS: Kids can exercise their creativity by doing nature crafts at Natural Bridge State Park. Cancelled in case of rain. 413-663-6392. McCauley Road. North Adams, MA. (FREE, <$ Parking) ♦
- 6-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Live music tonight at the Greenfield Energy Park! New acts each week. Bring your own seating, and maybe a picnic dinner. Miles Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 6:30-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Music on the porch at the Florence Civic Center! 90 Park Street. Florence, MA. (FREE) ♦
Friday, August 24th, 2012
9-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Amherst Family Center is open for a short summer session! Play, socialize, and have snack and circle time! 413-545-2129. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
10:30-11:30am – STORYTIME: Great Falls Discovery Center hosts a caterpillar-themed storytime this morning! Hear some silly stories, then learn about caterpillars. 413-863-3676. 2 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)
11am – ANIMAL STUDIES/SNAKES & FROGS: The Berkshire Botanical Garden presents, “Snakes and Frogs,” a family program designed to teach participants about some of the more than thirty types of frogs, snakes, turtles and salamanders that live in Berkshire County. Some of the animals will be on hand for observation! 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road. Stockbridge, MA. ($)
12:30-3:30pm – BABY SHOWER: Families who are pregnant or parenting a child under the age of 1 are invited to a community baby shower at the Bangs Community Center! There will be information on all sorts of parenting topics (everything from breastfeeding to sleep!), food, raffles, and a free gift bag full of parenting items! 413-376-1133. 70 Boltwood Walk. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
1-9:30pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: Visit the Cummington Fair! Today’s highlights include magic shows, circus performances, a 4H sheep contest, and pulling events, along with midway rides, games, and animals to visit and learn about. 97 Fairgrounds Road. Cummington, MA. ($)
5:45pm & 7pm – HISTORY/HAUNTED TOUR: Take a spooky mystery tour of The Mount tonight… beware – you never know what you might encounter! Visitors will not only be thoroughly creeped out, but will learn some of the building’s interesting history. 413-997-4444. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. ($$)
6pm – OUTDOOR SCREENING: It’s Christmas in the summertime at Adams’ movie night tonight! The featured movie is, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” and Santa will be visiting. Silly and fun for young children. Takes place on the town hall lawn. 8 Park Street. Adams, MA. (FREE)
SUMMER ONGOING FOR FRIDAYS
- 9-11am – MUSIC EDUCATION: Attend an educational program and a Boston Symphony Orchestra rehearsal at Tanglewood! There will be a presentation for families, a tour, and, of course, music. Shed seating is available for groups with kids ages 8+, while younger kiddos are asked to watch with their grown-ups from the lawn. Happens all summer (No rehearsal on August 17th). 413-637-5274. 297 West Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 9:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Outside at the playground at Unity Park! First Friday of each month means free breakfast. Sponsored by Community Action. First Street. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10am – HIKE: Take little adventurers on a tyke hike at Mt. Greylock! The hike is short, and ends with storytime. Meet at the Visitors Center. 413-499-4262. Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10am – KIDS’ PERFORMANCE: Stanley Park hosts children’s performances at the Beverage Pavillion Annex! Each week brings a new performer. 413-568-9312. 400 Western Avenue. Westfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10-11:30am – SUPPORT GROUP: Postpartum drop-in support group, sponsored by MotherWoman, at the Greenfield Family Center. Childcare provided! 413-475-1553. 90 Federal Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: At Northfield Mountain! Hosted by the Community Network for Children, each playgroup will have a different theme and will include hands-on educational activities for kids. 978-544-5157. Millers Falls Road. Northfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 11am-1pm – PLAYGROUP: Hosted by the Palmer-Monson Family Network at Eager Park (by Converse Middle School). Bring a picnic lunch. 413-283-6246. Walnut Street. Palmer, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 1-4pm – HIKE: Learn about safe hiking at Mt. Greylock. Hiking 101 will teach visitors about trail safety, map reading, proper equipment, bear etiquette, etc. Great for families interested in doing serious hiking, as well as slightly older kids interested in hiking on their own. Meet at the visitors center. 413-499-4262. Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 6:30-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Easthampton’s Arts in the Park summer concert series features great live music at Millside Park. Check the schedule for a list of performers. 2 Ferry Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
- 8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Enjoy Music After Hours at The Mount – traditional and modern music, performed by local musicians. 413-997-4444. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE) ♦
