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

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.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout Western Massachusetts while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BEST BETS

Things to Do & Places to See in Western MA this Summer!

Thursday-Sunday, August 23rd-26th in the Heart of Western MA – 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 Hampden County – 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)

Find out what’s happening in Berkshire County through Sept. 7th.

Saturday, August 25th in the Hampshire County – LOCAL FOOD: How many different types of (delicious) tomatoes are there? And how many are being grown locally? Visit Red Fire Farm’s annual tomato festival to find out from 12noon-5pm! The event includes an all-afternoon tomato tasting, as well as many other fun activities, performances, etc. centered around local food and a locally-based lifestyle. There will be live music from local artists, goods on sale from local artists and artisans, presentations from notable chefs, workshops on utilizing local foods and resources, and, in the morning, a 5K race! 413-467-7645. 7 Carver Street. Granby, MA. (<$)

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Parents’ Night Out Tix Giveaway! Deadline to enter: Sept. 4th.

Friday, Aug. 31st – Monday, Sept. 3rd – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: Visit the 145th annual Blandford Fair! There will be animals galore, many opportunities to learn about farming and agriculture, midway games and rides, performances, and more! 413-848-0995. 10 North Street. Blandford, MA. ($)

Friday, Aug. 31st – Monday, Sept. 3rd – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The 195th edition of the Three County Fair takes place this weekend! Visit to learn about animals, local agriculture, local history, and local culture – and see magic shows, live music, and more! Fair Street. Northampton, MA. ($)

All are invited to join us on an organized field trip to the Food Bank of Western MA on Sat., Sept. 15th at 1:30pm. Sign up to join us!

Saturday, Sept. 1st – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: Celebrate the end of summer at the great 2012 Holyoke Community Block Party from 12noon-9pm! There will be live music and food (featuring some particularly delicious treats and particularly entertaining acts) all day! Takes place at Heritage State Park. Dwight Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)

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.

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.

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 class, 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.

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking, and community-based educational opportunities. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com

YOUTH VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: Westfield on Weekends is seeking volunteers ages 12 years old and older to help with the 8th annual Westfield Colonial Harvest Day, which will be taking place on Saturday, Sept 29 from 10am– 6:30pm on the grounds of the Westfield Athenaeum and on Court St. There will be a general meeting in the Whitney Study at the Westfield Athenaeum on Tuesday, Aug 28 at 6pm for all those who are interested in finding out more about Colonial Harvest Day and the many volunteer opportunities for this annual community event. For more info, call Colonial Harvest Day Co-Chair Chris Lindquist at 413-568-0638, or email at clindquist@westath.org.

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LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS:
August 25th-31st, 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 25th, 2012

Farmers’ Markets

The Cummington Fair is a gem of an agricultural fair that happens every August in the heart of the Hilltowns. Mark Melhorn, Arjuna Greist and Piet Slaghekke all picked “The Biggest and Best Little Fair in the Country” for our Summer Bucket List!

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.

8am-6pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The Shelburne Grange holds their annual fair today! The event begins with a craft fair and flea market (which lasts all day), and includes lots of other fun activities and events for families. At 9:30am, families can participate in a corn shucking competition (practice on some delicious local corn before family dinner!), and other events include live music, an auction, weaving and spinning demonstrations, a visit from the ever popular pocket lady, chicken barbeque, and an exhibit hall filled with everything from quilts to bread and butter pickles, all created and submitted by community members! 413-625-6592. 17 Little Mohawk Road. Shelburne, MA. (FREE)

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.

8:30am-9:30pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: Visit the Cummington Fair this weekend! Highlights include farm animals and chances to learn about local farming, a variety of family events and performances, antique tractor shows, rides and games, exhibition halls full of locally created goods, and more! 97 Fairgrounds Road. Cummington, MA. ($)

9am-5pm – SKILLSHARE: Katywil Farm Community is hosting a block party, filled with community skillshares and other fun activities! Families can learn weaving and dying, go on a medicinal herb walk, learn to extract honey and make pickles, and more! Visitors are also welcome to share their own skills. Dinner takes place at 6 and is potluck. 413-624-5599. 43 Stetson Brothers Road. Colrain, MA. (FREE)

9:30am-1pm – PUPPETS: Spend the morning playing with puppets at the Hatfield Library! Kids can create puppet productions, practice creating new personas for puppets, and more. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE)

10am-12noon – NATURE STUDIES/POLLINATORS: Pollinators play an incredibly important role in the environment! Learn about bees, hornets, and wasps this morning at Field Farm with the Trustees of Reservations – scary though their sting may be, the science behind pollinating creatures is fascinating. 413-229-8600. Williamstown, MA ($)

10am-2pm – 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)

11am-12noon – HISTORY: 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-3pm – 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. (<$)

12noon or 1pm – ARCHITECTURE: Tour The Folly, a post-modernist home on the grounds of Field Farm. The Trustees of Reservations will be offering tours of the home, and visitors can learn about its unique architectural style and compare it with the farm’s guest house, designed in the American modern style. Great for older kids interested in architecture, design, and engineering. 413-458-3135. 554 Sloan Road. Williamstown, MA. (<$)

12noon-2pm – GARLIC FESTIVAL: Sixteen Acres Branch Library is hosting a garlic festival with garlic inspired food, fun and learning; cooking demonstrations with garlic, info on preserving garden produce, activities for all ages and storytime for children. 413-263-6858. 1187 Parker Street. Springfield, MA (FREE)

12noon-5pm – LOCAL FOOD: How many different types of (delicious) tomatoes are there? And how many are being grown locally? Visit Red Fire Farm’s annual tomato festival to find out! The event includes an all-afternoon tomato tasting, as well as many other fun activities, performances, etc. centered around local food and a locally-based lifestyle. There will be live music from local artists, goods on sale from local artists and artisans, presentations from notable chefs, workshops on utilizing local foods and resources, and, in the morning, a 5K race! 413-467-7645. 7 Carver Street. Granby, MA. (<$)

12noon-8pm – MUSIC FESTIVAL: The Institute for Musical Arts is hosting Amp Fest today – a celebration of ten years’ worth of girls rockin’ out for the summer! The event features a wide variety of music, played by students and alumni of the program. The IMA offers music programs to girls and young women, to help them discover music, learn new instruments, and rock out! 165 Cape Street. Goshen, MA (DONATION)

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. (<$)

1pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Tour Stockbridge and learn about the town’s history from residents, past and present, found on porches of historic homes in a local tour called Shady Porches. The tour, hosted by the Stockbridge Library, features actors playing Stockbridge residents – doctors, lawyers, bakers, etc., – and offers a fun and exciting take on local history. 413-298-5501. 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 – NATURE STUDIES/HONEY BEES: Visit Hancock Shaker Village for a special program on honey bees! The event is part of the village’s Return and Learn series, and will teach visitors about the role that pollinators play in the ecosystem, and all about beekeeping (and its history at the village). Great information for older students to pair with studies of local agriculture and entomology! 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE w/ ADMISSION)

2pm – EARTH SCIENCE: Visit Western Gateway Heritage State Park for a program on the Earth – as seen from space! 413-663-6312. 115 State Street. North Adams, MA. (<$)

2pm – STORYTIME: At the Eric Carle Museum, featuring a visit from author Jef Czekaj, who wrote Yes, Yes, Yaul! 413-658-1100. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. (<$)

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)

2:30pm – CONCERT: Tanglewood presents a family-friendly concert! Classical Tangent, made up of members of the BSO and Berklee School of Music, will perform folk music from around the world. An instrument playground will be held beginning at 12:30pm. Attending a family-friendly concert is a great way to introduce kids to classical music and the many different instruments found in a symphony – in a relaxed atmosphere! 888-266-1200. 297 West Street. Lenox, MA. (<$)

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) ♦

6pm – TEEN/TWEEN MOVIE NIGHT: It’s teen/tween movie night at the Meekins Library! Tonight’s film is The Hunger Games (PG 13). Snacks begin at 6, and movie begins at 7. 413-268-7472. 2 Williams Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE)

6:15pm – OUTDOOR DANCE: Jacob’s Pillow hosts free outdoor dance performance as part of the summer Inside/Out series. Tonight is the last one of the summer. Best for kids with audience skills. 413-243-9919. 385 George Carter Road. Becket, MA. (FREE)

8-11pm – OUTDOOR CONCERT/DINNER: Bring Your Own Restaurant to an outdoor jazz jam session at the Canal Gallery! Drinks available for purchase (including beer and wine for the parents), but bring your own delicious dinner and seating. Event raises money for the Holyoke Latin Jazz Festival. 380 Dwight Street. Holyoke, MA. (DONATION)

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Sunday, August 26th, 2012

“Hot summer days mean heading to Flayvors of Cook Farm in Hadley for great ice cream and finding a spot to fish on a local river and if it has a rope swing~ bonus!” —Glenda Datsko (Greenfield, MA)

7-8am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) airs encores the Hilltown Family Variety Show every Sunday morning. 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 – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Take a nature walk through Turners Falls – explore the canal paths, parks, and sidewalks with the Great Falls Discovery Center. The exploration will include both history of the community and the natural history of the area. 413-863-3676. 2 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

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-8pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: Visit the Cummington Fair this weekend! Highlights include farm animals and chances to learn about local farming, a variety of family events and performances, antique tractor shows, rides and games, exhibition halls full of locally created goods, and more! 97 Fairgrounds Road. Cummington, MA. ($)

10am and 2pm – BOTANY/HIKE: Go on a medicinal 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) ♦

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 x3352. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. ($)

1pm – MUSIC: Learn about orchestra instruments, music styles, and musical concepts at Tanglewood’s Watch and Play program! The event is specially designed to make kids’ visit to Tanglewood educational, and to provide them with background information that will help them make sense of what they hear. Takes place in the Chamber Music Hall. Tickets to afternoon performance required. 866-266-1200. 297 West Street. Lenox, MA. ($$$)

1-4pm – HISTORY: Learn about local history and Native Americans by visiting the Agawam Historical Association’s Firehouse Museum! There are displays, artifacts, and more from which visitors can learn about the first residents of what is now Agawam. 35 Elm Street. Agawam, MA. (FREE)

2pm – LOCAL HISTORY: The Plainfield Historical Society is offering a guided hike to explore former mill sites along the Mill River! The event begins with a talk on the many former mills and their sites, and is followed at 2:45 by a trek through the woods – dress appropriately for uneven terrain, mud, water, etc. Families can learn about the industries that helped to bring people to the area and build community, and learn about how the area has changed! Begins at Shaw Memorial Library. 304 Main Street. Plainfield, 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) ♦

2-4pm – LOCAL HISTORY: The Buckland Historical Society is open this afternoon! Visit to learn about local history from the many different artifacts, pieces of memorabilia, and more that the museum is home to. Kids can learn about how their community has evolved and learn about how significant national and international events and changes have affected where they live. 413-625-9763. 20 Upper Street. Buckland, MA. (FREE)

4pm – OUTDOOR PERFORMANCE: Main Street Stage is doing a whirlwind backyard tour this summer with their production, “The King Stag,” a play chronicling a queen-finding quest. The story is told through puppets, masks, music, magic, stilts, and more. Today’s performance takes place at Bascom Lodge at Mt. Greylock. 30 Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE)

6pm – OUTDOOR CONCERT: Stanley Park’s summer concert series features tons of family-friendly performers! 413-568-9312. 400 Western Avenue. Westfield, MA. (FREE) ♦

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Monday, August 27th, 2012

6pm – PERFORMANCE/NATURE STUDIES: Storrs Library presents “The Watershed Waltz,” a performance by Marmalade Productions for kids ages 5-12. 693 Longmeadow St. Longmeadow, MA (FREE)

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. ($$)

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) ♦
• 1-5pm – ART: The Art Garden hosts open studio hours every Monday-Saturday afternoon. Families can visit to experiment with art materials and try out new forms of expression – or just to work on perfecting skills. 413-625-2782. 4 Depot Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (DONATION) ♦
• 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) ♦
• 7pm – KNITTING: The Westhampton Library hosts a knitting group for knitters of all abilities. This intergenerational skillshare is great for knitters who enjoy the company of other needle-clacking scarf-makers, or for those in need of some help with dropped stitches. 413-527-5386. 1 North Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE) ♦

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Tuesday, August 28th, 2012

4-9:30pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION/MUSIC: Northampton’s 22nd annual Transperformance takes place tonight at the Pines Theater at Look Park! The show features local musicians performing as other famous groups. The theme is food groups – expect appearances from fake Cake, Meatloaf, and more! 300 North Main Street. Florence, MA. ($)

6:30pm – HISTORY: The Emily Williston Memorial Library will hos “Civil War Field Artillery: The Guns, The Equipment, and the Men” with award-winning historian, Civil War expert, Norbert Rieke. Mr. Rieke will review the different types of field artillery often displayed at our National Parks, giving older students insight into the history of the Civil War through these historic artifacts for their visits to these national treasuries. 413-527-1031. 9 Park St. Easthampton, MA (FREE)

7pm – CONCERT: The Connecticut River Watershed Council hosts Goodnight Irene, a community concert featuring a host of local musicians. Taking place on the one year anniversary of Hurricane Irene, the show raises money for the council’s annual Source to Sea river cleanup. Enjoy an evening of great music while showing support for the community’s recovery from the storm and continued conservation efforts! Takes place at Deerfield Academy’s auditorium. Old Main Street. Deerfield, MA. (FUNDRAISER)

7-9pm – ENTOMOLOGY: Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary hosts an evening of nocturnal summer bugs! There will be an informational slideshow about katydids and grasshoppers, then a trip outside to listen to (and perhaps find!) some of the noisy summer critters. Designed for adults, the program is best for older students interested in wildlife biology and entomology. Registration required. 413-584-3009. 127 Coombs Road. Easthampton, MA. (<$)

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) ♦
• 1-5pm – ART: The Art Garden hosts open studio hours every Monday-Saturday afternoon. Families can visit to experiment with art materials and try out new forms of expression – or just to work on perfecting skills. 413-625-2782. 4 Depot Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (DONATION) ♦
• 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)
  

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Wednesday, August 29th, 2012

5:30-6:30pm – KIDS’ CONCERT: Childcare of the Berkshires presents children’s performer David Grover in concert! The show will take place at the MCLA Church Street Center. 413-664-4821. Church Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)

5:30-7pm – BACK TO SCHOOL CELEBRATION: It’s back-to-school time! Celebrate tonight on the Amherst Town Common – there will be live music, decorating of banners for schools, a chance to meet local police officers and firemen, and more! Bring a picnic dinner to enjoy. West Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)

SUMMER ONGOING FOR WEDNESDAYS

• 9:30-11:30 – PLAYGROUP: At Pettengill Park! Sponsored by the Cummington Family Center. Main Street. Cummington, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 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) ♦
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: At the Gateway Family Center. 413-667-2203. 9 Russell Road. Huntington, 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) ♦
• 1-5pm – ART: The Art Garden hosts open studio hours every Monday-Saturday afternoon. Families can visit to experiment with art materials and try out new forms of expression – or just to work on perfecting skills! 413-625-2782. 4 Depot Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (DONATION) ♦
• 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) ♦
• 6:30pm – 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. ($$) ♦

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Thursday, August 30th, 2012

4-7pm – MUSIC FUN: Open hours at the Family United Network’s Salasin Center features music play! Kids can try out drums, maracas, and even a ukelele. 413-774-4307. 474 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)

5:30pm – MOVIE: Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum to watch a classic comedy, inspired by Howard Pyle (whose work is currently on view at the museum). “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” will be screened – the movie is rated PG, but does contain violence. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. ($$)

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. (<$) ♦
• 11am-12noon – STORYTIME: Preschool storytime at the Hatfield Library! 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 11:30am-12:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Outside at the Haskins Center’s playground! 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 1-5pm – ART: The Art Garden hosts open studio hours every Monday-Saturday afternoon. Families can visit to experiment with art materials and try out new forms of expression – or just to work on perfecting skills! 413-625-2782. 4 Depot Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (DONATION) ♦
• 2pm – CRAFTS: Kids can exercise their creativity by doing nature crafts at Natural Bridge State Park. Cancelled in case of rain. 413-663-6392. McCauley Road. North Adams, MA. (FREE, <$ Parking) ♦
• 6:30pm – LAWN CONCERT: At the gazebo in Huntington! Bake sale available for purchase of desserts. Lots of great local acts. Routes 20 and 112. Huntington, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 6pm – SCRABBLE: First and third Thursdays at the Westhampton Library. Kids can practice spelling and vocabulary skills, as well as basic math while keeping score! 413-527-5386. 1 North Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 6:30pm – LAWN CONCERT: At the gazebo in Huntington. Bake sale available for purchase of desserts. Lots of great local acts! Routes 20 and 112. Huntington, MA. (FREE) ♦
• 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) ♦
• 7pm – LAWN CONCERT: Visit Angel Park for live music. Grab dinner at the Burgy Farmers’ Market across the street, or one of the many restaurants in Williamsburg, and head to the park with your friends and family to enjoy a blissful summer evening! Williamsburg, MA. (FREE) ♦

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Friday, August 31st, 2012

MUSEUM ADVENTURE: Thanks to the Highland Street Foundation’s summer Free Fun Fridays series, both Mass MoCA and the Ecotarium are offering free admission today! North Adams, MA and Worcester, MA. (FREE)

11am-10pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The Three County Fair takes place this weekend! Visit to learn about animals, local agriculture, local history, and local culture – and see magic shows, live music, and more! Fair Street. Northampton, MA. ($)

3-4:30pm – LEGOS: Visit the Chicopee Library for LEGO time! Kids can experiment with bricks of all sizes and colors and make their own masterpieces! LEGO play can help kids discover basic principles of physics, geometry, architecture, and design. 413-594-1800. Front Street. Chicopee, MA. (FREE)

3-9pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: Visit the annual Blandford Fair! There will be animals galore, many opportunities to learn about farming and agriculture, midway games and rides, performances, and more! 413-848-0995. 10 North Street. Blandford, MA. ($)

5:30-7:30pm – MOVIE: The Huntington Library screens, “The Hunger Games,” tonight! 413-667-3506. 7 East Main Street. Huntington, MA. (FREE)

SUMMER ONGOING FOR FRIDAYS

• 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 the Gateway Family Center. 413-667-2203. 9 Russell Road. Huntington, 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) ♦
• 1-5pm – ART: The Art Garden hosts open studio hours every Monday-Saturday afternoon. Families can visit to experiment with art materials and try out new forms of expression – or just to work on perfecting skills! 413-625-2782. 4 Depot Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (DONATION) ♦
• 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) ♦

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