Hilltown Families 
Berkshire Family Fun: August 2013
Berkshire County Highlights for Families: August 2013
Find out about community events and learning opportunities happening throughout Berkshire County for the month of August. We’ll be adding to this list as the month progresses, so be sure to check back each week.
To find out what’s happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, check our comprehensive list of Weekly Suggested Events, published every Thursday! There you will also find our list of ongoing weekday playgroups, storyhours and events both in Berkshire County and throughout the region.
North Berkshire
Adams| Cheshire | Lanesborough| North Adams | Williamstown | Windsor
Central Berkshire | South Berkshire
Thursday, August 1st-4th – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The 29th Annual Adams Agricultural Fair runs from August 1-August 4 at Bowe Field. The Fair features an antique tractor pull, animal demonstrations, magic, zumba, birds of prey demonstrations, live music, food, a demolition derby, and many other activities. The Fair is an exciting way to learn about agriculture and learn about many things going on in and around Adams that you might not know about. Old Columbia Street. Adams, MA.
Saturday, August 10th from 10am-10pm & Sunday, August 11th from 10am-6pm – CULTURAL STUDIES/NATIVE AMERICAN: Celebrate and learn about Native American traditions and history at the Rock, Rattle, and Drum Pow Wow. The event is an explosion of Native American culture – families can listen to drumming, try out traditional foods, learn about the creation of arts and crafts such as pottery and beaded items, participate in community dances, and more! Takes place at the Adams Agricultural Fairgrounds. 413-443-2481. Adams, MA. (>$)
Sunday, August 11th from11am-3pm – FESTIVAL/LOCAL FOOD: Whitney’s Farm Market’s 4th Annual Corn Fest features a corn shucking contest, corn eating contest, corn sack race, corn sampling, a petting zoo, and more! This yearly celebration of local farms and corn is fun for the whole family. 413-442-4749. 1775 South State Road. Cheshire, MA. (FREE)
Thursdays, August 1st-22nd from 10am-12noon – NATURE STUDIES: Kids who are interested in nature and learning about the outdoors can participate in the seven-week-long Junior Ranger program at Mt. Greylock. Participants will learn about ecology, geology, water, climate, plants, and animals to gain a well-rounded understanding of local natural areas. This program is for kids ages 8-12 and you must register in advance. Program runs every Thursday from July 11 through August 22. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, August 4th at 6pm – MUSIC/DANCE: “Blues and Tap: A Cultural Intersection” takes place at Bascom Lodge and features blues music and tap dance, performed by Robin O’Herin and Stefanie Weber. Enjoy the performance while learning about the intersections of these two art forms. 413-743-1591. 30 Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, August 11th at 1pm – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Nutshell Playhouse presents a special performance – Nutshellapalooza! There will be music, puppets, clowns, stories, pirates, and more! Kids of all ages are welcome to enjoy this imaginative show. Takes place at the Bascom Lodge. 413-743-1591. 30 Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA.
Wednesday, August 14th at 6pm – CONCERT/MUSIC STUDIES: The Berkshire Highlanders are Berkshire County’s only pipe and drum band. They perform throughout the region and on the summit of Mt. Greylock each summer. See their exciting performance atop Mt. Greylock at the Bascom Lodge. The group will be wearing traditional attire and will entertain audiences with their bagpipe music. 413-743-1591. 30 Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA.
Saturday, August 17th from 9am-4pm – HIKING: Join the Berkshire Natural Resources Council for a hike up Mt. Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts. The peak of Mt. Greylock offers spectacular views of New England and interesting plant communities, like a boreal forest – the only one in the state! The hike is over eight miles and will take the whole day, so the event is recommended only for adults and older students. 413-499-0596. 30 Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA.
Sunday, August 18th at 6pm – NATURE STUDIES/GEOLOGY: Ralph Brill, director of Project Pangaea, will give a talk on the International Appalachian Trail at Bascom Lodge. Project Pangaea aims to connect the Appalachian Trail on several different continents. The mountain range was connected during the time of Pangaea and the Project would “link” the trail to others throughout the world. 413-743-1591. 30 Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 28th at 6pm – HISTORY/NATURE STUDIES: Learn about the history and nature of Mt. Greylock at Bascom Lodge with DCR Interpretive Ranger Alec Gillman. Gillman will give a presentation covering the changes the mountain has gone through and how people reconciled their need to shape it and their desire to preserve its wilderness. 413-743-1591. 30 Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA.
Check out what’ happening at MASS MoCA in August! It’s Bang on a Can Marathon time!
Every Thursday in August from 6pm-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Enjoy outdoor music and dinner with family and friends at Noel Park behind the Steeplecats field. North Adams’ Party in the Park features live music and a variety of food vendors, so you can pack your own picnic or get food at the show. Runs through the end of August. 413-664-6180. State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 10th at 8:30pm – FILM STUDIES: Join MASS MoCA for a screening of Beasts of the Southern Wild (PG-13), accompanied by a live score composed by Dan Romer. Romer and the film’s director, Benh Zeitlin, will perform this score with the Wordless Music Orchestra to a special music-less version of the film. Adults and older students interested in film and/or music would enjoy this special screening. It is recommended that you get tickets in advance. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. $$
Wednesday, August 14th from 5:30pm-9pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: This is the 17th year of North Adams’ Annual Downtown Celebration. Organizations and businesses will give out information and hold contests, bands will play live music, and vendors will provide delicious food. There will also be other family-friendly activities. This is a great way to explore North Adams! 413-664-6180. Main, Eagle, Holden, and northern Ashland Streets. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Friday, August 16th-Sunday, August 18th – CONCERT: Mucca Pazza describe themselves as a “circus punk marching band” and they are known for their exciting and energetic live performances. The group will perform at MASS MoCA all weekend and these performances are not to be missed! 12noon, 3pm, 8pm performances scheduled. Check their schedule for dates and the video below. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. $$
Saturday, August 24th at 1pm – ART: MASS MoCA invites families to a special event with artist Michael Oatman – Space… The Final Frontier?. Oatman is responsible for the museum’s installation all utopias fell. You can climb aboard the installation’s spaceship and make your own space gear for a trip to the moon. Oatman will be there to answer questions, lead a discussion, and read from his children’s book, Tiny Pie. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. $
Saturday, August 24th at 6:30pm – MOVIE: See the movie Airplane! (1980; rated PG) with MASS MoCA at the Harriman-West Airport in North Adams! The Airport offers great views of the Berkshires and the movie, a comedy classic, will be screened on the hangar. There will be grilled food, ice cream, beer, wine, non-alcoholic drinks, antique cars and planes, and balsa wood toy planes for the first 100 kids! This unique event will be exciting for the whole family. Tickets sold at the gate. Gates open at 6:30pm, movie starts at 8pm. 413-662-2111. 836 State Road. North Adams, MA. $
Sunday, August 25th from 9am-3pm – TRANSPORTATION: North Adams’ Motorama event is back for its third year! Streets will close so cars, trucks, motorcycles, snowmobiles, tractors, and more fill the streets. Pedestrians can stroll around and look at all the different vehicles on display. 413-664-6180. Main, Holden, & Eagle Streets. North Adams, MA.
Saturdays in August from 10am-2pm – ART: Stop by the Clark Art Institute for an all-ages watercolor workshop. Open to people with all skill levels, this workshop helps you learn the art of watercolor painting while translating the natural beauty of the Clark onto paper. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Friday, August 2nd-Sunday, August 4th – FILM: Goro and Hayao Miyazaki’s film From Up on Poppy Hill (rated PG) is screening at Images Cinema. The film, set in Yokohama in 1963, centers on the budding romance of Umi and Shun, who team up to stop the demolition of their high school’s clubhouse. The film is hand-drawn and recommended for kids 9 and up. Screening times: Fri. at 5:30pm; Sat. at 2pm; and Sun. at 7:30pm. 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street. Williamstown, MA. $
Saturday, August 10th from 1pm-4pm – NATURE STUDIES: Explore Pine Cobble, Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation’s largest preserve, on a guided interpretive hike. The preserve totals 380 acres and offers spectacular views, as well as interesting plants and geology. The hike is moderate to strenuous and leads to a 600-million-year-old cliff overlooking the Berkshires. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore one of many local natural areas while learning about the unique geology of the region. 413-458-2494. 671 Cold Spring Road. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, August 11th at 3pm – ART HISTORY: Norwegian artist Edvard Munch was born 150 years ago, and to celebrate, the National Museum and the Munch Museum, both in Oslo, have created Munch 150, an onscreen tour of Munch’s work. Munch 150 takes you behind the scenes of the exhibition to see how it was put together. This once-in-a-lifetime show allows you to see Munch’s most famous works up close on the big screen. The Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute is screening the film, along with a question and answer session. Please purchase tickets in advance. 413-458-0524. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. ($$)
Friday, August 23rd from 10am-5pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Today is Free Fun Friday at the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute! Visitors to the museum can see all the exhibits and collections, as well as participate in special activities and purchase barbecue food 11:30am-2:30pm. This opportunity is not to be missed! 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 24th from 12noon & 1pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Visit Williamstown’s Field Farm for a tour of the Folly House, an example of post-modernist architecture surrounded by fields, woods, and wetlands, as well as both the Berkshire and Taconic mountain ranges. This is a chance to see interesting natural areas as well as a unique historic home. 413-684-0148. 554 Sloan Road. Williamstown, MA. $
Saturday, August 24th at 1pm – HIKING: Explore the Phelps Trail with the Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation. The Trail starts in Williamstown and connects with the Taconic Crest Trail. The hike is a strenuous, four-mile hike with a 1,300-foot climb – you will walk through meadows, a pine grove, fern glades, and see interesting geologic features. Meet in Dietze Interpretive Center, where you will carpool to the trailhead. Due to the strenuous nature of the hike, it is best for adults or older students. 413-458-2494. 671 Cold Spring Road. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 28th from 1pm-3pm – GEOLOGY: Field Farm’s “disappearing stream” is a natural wonder of the Berkshires. Join the Trustees of Reservations and learn how this stream manages to disappear and where it goes. Geologist Dick Hamilton will teach about Field Farm’s karst geologic formations, which are shaped by bedrock dissolutions. Why does this happen? When did it happen? These are among the many questions Hamilton will address on this moderate two mile hike. 413-458-3135. 554 Sloan Road. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 29th from 6-9pm – ART: Stop by and visit IS183 Art School at DownStreet Art for fun and creative opportunities for families! This free event in downtown North Adams is offered by the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts’ Berkshire Cultural Resource Center and includes seven new exhibits, a one day gallery installation and a musical performance by the Vermont Joy Parade. Downtown. North Adams, MA (FREE)
Saturday, August 3rd from DUSK-11pm – ASTRONOMY: Want to learn about astronomy first-hand? Join the Trustees of Reservations and the Arunah Hill Natural Science Center for an evening of stargazing and searching for moons, planets, galaxies, and more at Notchview! Please call to pre-register. 413-532-1631 x10. Route 9. Windsor, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 10th from 9am-12noon – PLANT STUDIES: Learn about the amazing world of carnivorous and wetland plants at Bog Pond in the Savoy State Forest with Tamarack Hollow Nature and Cultural Center. Wetland plants are unique and you will learn about the ecology of bogs and how/why these plants are able to thrive there while others cannot. To register email aimee@gaiaroots.com. 413-522-1505. 1515 Savoy Hollow Road. Windsor, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 17th from 9am-1pm – NATURE STUDIES: Join Mass Audubon and Tamarack Hollow Nature and Cultural Center for a hike around Windsor, where three watersheds meet on the Berkshire Plateau. See the springs and streams that feed the Westfield River and hike to the Housatonic River watershed. The hike is five miles and moderate-to-difficult, so this event is only recommended for older students and adults. Registration is required. 413-584-3009. 1515 Savoy Hollow Road. Windsor, MA. $$
Wednesday, August 21st from 8:30pm-10:30pm – NATURE STUDIES: Explore Notchview at night with the Trustees of Reservations on a full moon hike. You will learn about the summer moon and what the forest is like at night. 413-684-2182. Route 9. Windsor, MA. >$
Saturday, August 31st at 8am – COMMUNITY SERVICE: Come out to Tamarack Hollow Nature and Cultural Center for a volunteer work day. Tamarack Hollow is a newly-formed non-profit and needs help clearing land and trails so they can build their center in the near future. 413-522-1505. 1515 Savoy Hollow Road. Windsor, MA. (VOLUNTEER)
Central Berkshire
Becket | Dalton | Lee | Lenox | Pittsfield | Richmond | Stockbridge | West Stockbridge
North Berkshire | South Berkshire
Wednesdays – Saturdays in August at 6:15pm – DANCE/CULTURAL STUDIES: Experience many unique styles of dance and learn about different cultures at the Inside/Out performances at Jacob’s Pillow. Inside/Out features different dancers and performance artists from throughout the world, all of whom will engage the audience in exciting choreography, music, and cultural experiences. 413-243-9919. 358 George Carter Road. Becket, MA. (FREE)
Crane Museum of Papermaking — Visit the Crane Museum of Papermaking to learn about the history of papermaking at Crane since the early 1800’s. Located on the banks of the Housatonic River, the building itself is a museum! This is a great opportunity to learn about local history. The museum is open weekdays from 1-5pm. — 413-684-2600. 30 South Street. (FREE)
Saturday, August 3rd from 11am-12noon – FAMILY CONCERT: Terry A La Berry performs one of his exciting kids concerts at the Spectrum Playhouse! 413-394-5023 x12. 20 Franklin Street. Lee, MA.
Wednesday, August 7th from 10am-12noon – NATURE STUDIES: Enjoy a slow-paced hike with the Berkshire Natural Resources Council at Basin Pond. The Pond has beautiful views and dam remnants from two historic dams that existed (and ultimately failed) at the property in the 19th and 20th centuries. This hike is a great way to experience a local natural area and learn about some local history in the process. 413-499-0596. Becket Road. Lee, MA.
Thursday, August 22nd-Friday, August 23rd from 6-10pm, and Saturday, August 24th from 4pm-10pm – CARNIVAL: The St. Mary’s School Carnival features games, rides, food, and more, all to benefit the school. This annual carnival is great fun for the whole family. 413-243-1074. Housatonic Street. Lee, MA.
Thursday, August 1st at 11am – MAGIC: Learn the underground secrets of magic with magician Jim Snack. This event is part of the Dig Into Reading summer reading program and takes place at the Lenox Library. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA.
Tuesdays in August at 11am – KIDS CONCERT: Dance, laugh, and sing with Terry A La Berry and Friends at the Lenox Library’s Roche Reading Park! The band will play classic kids songs, folk tunes, and Terry’s own original songs. Kids of all ages (and their parents) are welcome to participate in the fun and even request songs! 413-637-0197 x105. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 8th at 11am – MUSIC: Davis Bates and Roger Tincknell will perform “Earth Rhythms: Stories and Songs for the Whole Earth” at the Lenox Library. “Earthy Rhythms” is an interactive music program that celebrates the natural world and teaches environmental awareness and stewardship. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA.
Thursday, August 15th at 11am & 1pm – PHYSICS: Boston Museum of Science’s traveling program “Rockets: There and Back Again” is coming to the Lenox Library. Kids will learn all about rockets and even get the chance to make their own! For kids 5 and up. Registration is required. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA.
Monday, August 19th at 4pm – FILM STUDIES/JEWISH STUDIES: The Berkshire Jewish Film Festival is screening Hannah Arendt (2012; not rated), a biopic about the philosopher and writer of the same name. The film follows Arendt from New York City to Jerusalem, where she covered the trial of Adolf Eichmann, a Nazi who fled Germany after World War II. This film is best for adults or older students. Screens at Lenox Memorial High School. 413-445-4872. 197 East Street. Lenox, MA.
Monday, August 19th at 8pm – FILM STUDIES/JEWISH STUDIES: The Berkshire Jewish Film Festival is screening When Comedy Went to School (2013; not rated). The film is a documentary about the birth and evolution of stand-up comedy. This film is best for adults or older students. Screens at Lenox Memorial High School. 413-445-4872. 197 East Street. Lenox, MA.
Tuesday, August 20th at 12noon – ICE CREAM SOCIAL: To celebrate the end of summer and the end of the Dig Into Reading summer reading program, the Lenox Library is hosting an ice cream social for those who participated in the social! Stop by the library for some final summer reading fun. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA.
Saturday, August 24th at 12:30pm – MUSIC STUDIES/CLASSICAL MUSIC: Today is Tanglewood’s annual Family Concert! The concert will be “Musical Storytelling” featuring a wind quintet. There will also be pre-concert activities, including a composition exercise, crafts, and an instrument playground where kids can try out instruments. This event is great for family members of all ages and offers a chance for kids and adults to experience the beautiful Tanglewood venue while learning about different types of music and instruments. Concert starts at 2:30pm. Please place ticket orders by phone to get free kids tickets. 888-266-1200. 297 West Street. Lenox, MA. >$
Friday, August 30th from 10am-5pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Explore The Mount on Free Fun Friday! Enjoy their exhibits, learn about the mansion, estate, and grounds, and discover the property’s beautiful gardens. 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 1st – Sunday, August 11th – THEATER: Barrington Stage Company presents a production of The Little Mermaid, Jr. at the Berkshire Museum. The production follows the plot of the classic Disney film and has been adapted for a theatrical performance. For each ticket purchased, you can receive $2 off a ticket to the Berkshire Museum! The performance is for children 5 and up. Wednesdays and Fridays, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Thursdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays, 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. 413-236-8888. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Mondays-Fridays, through August 16th from 9am-noon; 1pm-4pm – KIDS ACTIVITIES: The Pittsfield Parks and Recreation Department provides drop-in activities for kids Monday through Friday until August 16. Children can come to Pitt, Clapp, or Deming Parks for supervised sports, games, crafts, and nature activities. Please note that this is not a substitute for camp or childcare. 413-499-9370. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Friday, August 2nd at 2pm & 7pm – THEATER: Barrington Stage Company presents a production of The Little Mermaid, Jr. at the Berkshire Museum. The production follows the plot of the classic Disney film and has been adapted for a theatrical performance. For each ticket purchased, you can receive $2 off a ticket to the Berkshire Museum! The performance is for children 5 and up. 413-236-8888. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Friday, August 2nd at 8:30pm – FAMILY MOVIE: The City of Pittsfield is screening The Muppets at Clapp Park as part of their family-friendly Friday night summer movie series. Bring blankets and snacks and enjoy the show! 413-499-9370. West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 3rd and Sunday, August 4th from 10am-5pm – BLACKSMITHING: Age of Iron Weekend at Hancock Shaker Village. Blacksmiths, representing Berkshire, Connecticut, the Capital District, and New England Blacksmith Guilds will showcase their art and artisanship with both historical and contemporary demonstrations. Ironwork craftsmanship dating from the 17th to the 21st century, Japanese hardware, tool making, engraving, and Viking and Shaker forging are just a few of the techniques and styles that will be on display. Many exhibitors will be dressed in period costume. Hancock Shaker Village ironwork will be highlighted with a special scavenger hunt for children. 800-817-1137. Village is located at 34 Lebanon Mountain Rd., Hancock, Mass. 01237. Or, enter 1843 W. Housatonic St., Pittsfield, Mass. 01201 then proceed 1/2 mile further west on Rt. 20 to the parking lot. Pittsfield, MA ($)
Saturday, August 3rd at 3pm – HISTORY/LITERATURE: The Berkshire Historical Society at Herman Melville’s Arrowhead presents Dr. Robert K. Wallace, who will give an illustrated talk entitled “Fugitive Justice: Douglass, Melville, and Chief Justice Shaw.” The presentation traces the connections between Frederick Douglass (a freed slave and abolitionist), Chief Justice Shaw (Melville’s father-in-law, abolitionist, and Chief Justice of Mass. Supreme Court), and Herman Melville. The talk places emphasis on the “literal, legal, and fictional status of fugitive slaves as embodied by Douglass, interpreted by Shaw, and symbolized by Melville.” This event is best for adults or older students interested in literature, history, and/or African-American studies. The lecture could act as a supplement to American history or English curriculum. 413-442-1793. 780 Holmes Road. Pittsfield, MA.
Sunday, August 4th at 2pm – HISTORY/LITERATURE: Join the Berkshire Historical Society at Herman Melville’s Arrowhead for a reading of Frederick Douglass’ speech “The Meaning of the Fourth of July for the Negro,” facilitated by Dr. Robert K. Wallace. The original speech, delivered on July 5, 1852, was meant to draw attention to the inconsistencies between Independence Day celebrations and the fact that slavery still existed. This event is best for adults or older students interested in literature, history, and/or African-American studies. The lecture could act as a supplement to American history or English curriculum. 413-442-1793. 780 Holmes Road. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, August 4th from 11am-5pm – ETHNIC FAIR: Enjoy food and entertainment from all over the world at the Pittsfield Ethnic Fair. There will also be a classic car show by the Piston Poppers Car Club, live music, a DJ, crafts, and more. Attendees can learn about the many different cultures that are represented in the Berkshires and what their traditional food and music is like. 413-443-6501. North Street between Park Square and Maplewood Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, August 4th at 2pm – CULTURAL & WOMEN’S STUDIES: On Sunday, August 4th at 2pm, the Whitney Center for the Arts in Pittsfield will host a screening of the documentary, The Other Half of Tomorrow, follow by a talkback with mother-daughter filmmaker duo of Sadia Shepard and Samina Quraeshi. The Other Half of Tomorrow is a portrait of contemporary Pakistani women working to change their country and themselves. Through a series of chapters, the film features the work these women are involved in, like educating and empowering with a women’s rights’ workshop, allowing for expression in an underground dance academy, and improving strength and confidence from playing fields of the Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team. Take your older daughters and screen together. Talk with them about cultural differences and challenges women and girls face all over the world… and how they are overcoming them! 42 Wendell Avenue Pittsfield, MA. ($)
Wednesdays in August from 6pm-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Bring a blanket and enjoy live music at Burbank Park on the beautiful Onota Lake at Pittsfield’s Live on the Lake concert series. This is a great chance to have fun with the whole family while enjoying a picnic dinner and listening to different types of live music. 413-499-3333. Valentine Road. Pittsfield, MA.
Opens August 8th at 7pm; Closes August 18th – THEATER: The Berkshire Theatre Group presents Peter Pan at the Colonial Theatre. The classic musical about pirates, fairies, and lost boys stars children and adults from the local community. Peter Pan is the Berkshire Theatre Group’s 8th annual Children’s Production and is sure to be popular, so it is recommended that you purchase tickets in advance. More information, tickets, and showtimes can be found here. 413-997-4444. 111 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Friday, August 9th at 8pm – PUPPET THEATER: The Mettawee Theatre Company will perform Taliesin, based on a medieval Welsh tale. The play features giant figures, masks, and puppets. Bring the whole family and enjoy this imaginative and exciting performance. Takes place outdoors at Springside Park. BYO family, chairs & blankets. Pittsfield, MA (FREE)
Friday, August 9th at 8:30pm – FAMILY MOVIE: The City of Pittsfield is screening The Goonies at Clapp Park as part of their family-friendly Friday night summer movie series. Bring blankets and snacks and enjoy the show! 413-499-9370. West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 10th from 7pm-8:45pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: The Berkshire Museum is screening The Bling Ring (2013; rated R). The film, directed by Sofia Coppola, is based on the true story of a group of teenagers who robbed the homes of celebrities. The film was a success at the box office earlier this summer and this screening is an opportunity to see it on the big screen one last time. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Tuesday, August 13th at 1pm – THEATER: Join the Berkshire Athenaeum for a special performance of Nicholas Nickleby by the Hampstead Stage Company. The performance is an adaptation of the novel by Charles Dickens, which is about a young teacher who becomes separated from his family. He discovers his love of theater and rises above his poverty in order to reunite with his family. Hampstead Stage Company aims to bring literature alive through theater to motivate people to read the classics. The performance is best for kids ages 5 and up, who can gain a greater love for stories, literature, and theater through this performance. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Tuesday, August 13th at 7pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Tonight is the Berkshire Museum’s PechaKucha night. PechaKucha is a presentation format invented by an architecture firm in Japan and limits presenters to twenty slides, each twenty seconds long. The 20×20 format helps presenters talk more concisely and for a shorter amount of time, so no audience members lose interest. The format also helps to stimulate creative thinking. Adults are invited to present at PechaKucha night or just watch others give their talks. Free beer will be provided by Wandering Star Craft Brewery. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. >$
Thursday, August 15th from 5-8pm – COMMUNITY: Upstreet Pittsfield’s family friendly street festival, 3rd.Thursdays, returns for its 7th year! This Thursday’s theme is Weird Science, celebrating all things science related. Youth are encouraged to have their 3rd.Thursdays STEM passport stamped at each demonstration they visit in order to be entered into a drawing to win a microscope. Watch for performances by the Mad Scientist Jazz Ambassadors up and down the street and check out the Science Music Road Show’s handmade instruments at Palace Park. The Science Music Road Show perform on creative inventions such as homemade music boxes, the SpokeHarp, Rubarps, Gobichans, Tape Drums and a host of other unusual musical gadgets created from bicycle parts, antique horns, tin cans, rubber bands, old suit cases, cat toys and scavenged electronics. Expect the unexpected and prepare to be dazzled by this intersection of science and music. And at 7:30pm the Beacon Cinema will screen the classic 80s film “Weird Science.” Come out and enjoy this family-friendly community festival, filled with food, fun, activities, and more. 413-499-9348. Pittsfield, MA (FREE)
Thursday, August 15th from 5pm-8pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: As part of Pittsfield’s 3rd.Thursdays event, the Berkshire Museum will be open to Berkshire residents for free. This is a great chance to explore all the museum has to offer. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Friday, August 16th from 12noon-5pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: It’s Free Fun Friday at the Berkshire Museum! Explore the museum’s many exhibits, like their PaperWorks exhibition, their permanent collection, dioramas, and their many natural science exhibits, including a unique aquarium. This a rare opportunity to explore this amazing museum for free! 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 17th from 9am-1pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: It’s Family Fun Day at the Downtown Pittsfield Farmers Market. Kids can come to the market and enjoy fresh food while participating in fun activities! 413-443-6501. First Street parking lot. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)/MARKET
Saturday, August 17th from 9am-5pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The Berkshire County Youth Fair is a one-day agricultural fair run by youth for youth and is open to kids ages 5-18. There will be exhibits, food, games, horses, live entertainment, and more! Takes place at Berkshire County 4-H Fairgrounds. 413-448-8285. Utility Drive. Pittsfield, MA.
Saturday, August 17th from 10am-12noon – NATURE STUDIES: Learn about water and ecology at Science in the Parks with science educator Lisa Provencher! This a great chance for kids to engage in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) during the summer months. Students will have the opportunity to collect water samples and run pH tests, identify aquatic plants, and look for insects and amphibians. This program also teaches the importance of environmental stewardship and the value of local parks. 413-499-0692. 200 West Union Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 17th from 11am-8pm – CULTURAL FESTIVAL: Celebrate Greek culture with St. George Greek Orthodox Church at Greek Fest 2013! There will be Greek food and pastries, music, dancing, a boutique, raffles, a church tour, and more. The festival continues on Sunday 8/18 from 12noon-6pm. 73 Bradford Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 17th from 1-5pm – SUSTAINABILITY: Come visit the Repair Cafe, every third Saturday in St. Stephen’s Church basement! Skilled volunteers can fix children’s bikes, mend torn jeans, repair computers and fix up vacuums cleaners stuffed with crumbs and LEGO toys. Bring your broken lamp or light fixture without adding it to the landfill or purchasing a replacement. Children can learn the science and maintenance associate with their very own bike! Free refreshments. 413-212-8589. 67 East St. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 17th from 5pm-7pm – KINDERGARTEN READINESS: Are you or your child feeling nervous about kindergarten starting up this fall? Come to the Berkshire Museum for “WeeMuse: Countdown to Kindergarten” to help you both prepare! Children can ride on a school bus and practice packing their backpacks, spend time in model classrooms, and do activities that replicate the kindergarten experience. Parents can ask Museum “teachers” any questions they may have about kindergarten registration, childhood development, etc. This program is an excellent way to help kids and their families prepare for this exciting milestone. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 17th from 5:30pm & 6:30pm – KINDERGARTEN READINESS/CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: The Berkshire Museum, in partnership with the Boston Children’s Museum, presents a City Stage Co. performance of “D.W. Counts Down to Kindergarten.” The show is perfect for soon-to-be kindergarteners and their families. It follows D.W. of Arthur as her family and friends help her prepare for kindergarten. Tickets are available starting at 5pm. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA.
Saturday, August 17th from 6pm-11pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT/FUNDRAISER: Pittsfield’s 22nd annual Wing Fling features live music by Whiskey City and Static, many different kinds of chicken wings from local restaurants, and more. Proceeds go toward revitalizing downtown Pittsfield and toward the Pittsfield Family YMCA. Event takes place at Wahconah Park. 413-443-6501. 143 Wahconah Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$-$$$
Saturday, August 17th at 8pm – MUSIC & CULTURAL STUDIES: On Saturday, August 17th, the final event in the series will be a classical Middle Eastern music concert by Massachusetts-based Al-Layaali at the Whitney Center for the Arts. Al-Layaali’s mission is to ‘increase the awareness of Arabic music and culture through concerts, recordings, workshops and lectures and features musicians from four Arab countries; Palestine, Lebanon, Jordan and Morocco’. The concert begins at 8pm, and will feature a pre-concert talk by the musicians at 7pm, focusing on the tradition of music in the Arab world. 42 Wendell Avenue in Pittsfield, MA. ($)
Sunday, August 18th from 12noon-6pm – CULTURAL FESTIVAL: Celebrate Greek culture with St. George Greek Orthodox Church at Greek Fest 2013! There will be Greek food and pastries, music, dancing, a boutique, raffles, a church tour, and more. 73 Bradford Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, August 18th from 1pm & 3pm – KINDERGARTEN READINESS/CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: The Berkshire Museum, in partnership with the Boston Children’s Museum, presents a City Stage Co. performance of “D.W. Counts Down to Kindergarten.” The show is perfect for soon-to-be kindergarteners and their families. It follows D.W. of Arthur as her family and friends help her prepare for kindergarten. Tickets are available starting at 5pm. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA.
Sunday, August 18th at 2pm – THEATER: The Berkshire Theatre Group presents Peter Pan at the Colonial Theatre. The classic musical about pirates, fairies, and lost boys stars children and adults from the local community. Peter Pan is the Berkshire Theatre Group’s 8th annual Children’s Production and is sure to be popular, so it is recommended that you purchase tickets in advance. More information, tickets, and showtimes can be found here. 413-997-4444. 111 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Wednesday, August 21st from 6pm-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Bring a blanket and enjoy live music at Burbank Park on the beautiful Onota Lake at Pittsfield’s Live on the Lake concert series. This is a great chance to have fun with the whole family while enjoying a picnic dinner and listening to different types of live music. 413-499-3333. Valentine Road. Pittsfield, MA.
Thursday, August 22nd at 11am – CHILDREN’S THEATER: The Berkshire Museum presents Charlotte’s Web, performed by Berkshire Children’s Theater. The play is a musical based on the novel by E.B. White and features a cast of young performers from the area. Tickets available in advance. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$ [Cancelled]
Thursday, August 22nd at 1pm – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Join the Berkshire Athenaeum for a summer reading mime performance by Robert Rivest! Rivest is a comic mime artist who will tell tales about pirates, paleontologists, and kids digging for buried treasure. Audience members of all ages will also learn the basics of miming and how fun reading can be! 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Friday, August 23rd at 11am & 1pm – CHILDREN’S THEATER: The Berkshire Museum presents Charlotte’s Web, performed by Berkshire Children’s Theater. The play is a musical based on the novel by E.B. White and features a cast of young performers from the area. Tickets available in advance. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Saturday, August 24th at 11am & 2pm – CHILDREN’S THEATER: The Berkshire Museum presents Charlotte’s Web, performed by Berkshire Children’s Theater. The play is a musical based on the novel by E.B. White and features a cast of young performers from the area. Tickets available in advance. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Saturday, August 31st from 11am-12noon – CHEMISTRY: Be a mad scientist at the Berkshire Museum! Along with the help of the museum’s very own crazy chemist, kids can learn how to do exciting and surprising (and safe!) experiments with regular household materials. Kitchen Kaboom! is totally kid-safe, but adults must accompany participating scientists. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE with museum admission)
Saturday, August 17th from 10am-12:30pm – Today is an Open House and Family Fun Day at Camp Marion White, sponsored by the Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts. There will be fun activities for girls and boys, including nature activities, arts and crafts, tours, and more. There will be also be refreshments and snacks. 800-462-9100. 20 Swamp Road. Richmond, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 17th at 8pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Enjoy a night under the stars at Hilltop Orchards! The orchard and winery will take guests on a 1-1.5 hour hike under the full moon. A bonfire, wine tasting, and live entertainment will follow the hike – making for a fun and exciting evening outdoors! Visitors are asked to arrive 15 minutes early to register. 800-833-6274. 508 Canaan Road. Richmond, MA. ($)
Wednesday, August 28th from 9am-11am – NATURE STUDIES: Explore Berkshire Natural Resource Council’s newest reserve, Perry’s Peak Road Reserve (formerly Shaw Property). Perry’s Peak is 139 acres of field and forest, adjacent to Sleepy Hollow Brook and with views of Yokun Ridge. The hike is an easy 3-4 miles on grassy paths and roads and would be appropriate for adventurous kids and adults. 413-499-0596. Perry’s Peak Road. Richmond, MA.
Berkshire Botanical Garden — 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road.
Chesterwood — 413-298-3579. 4 Williamsville Road
Mission House — 413-298-3239. 5 Prospect Hill Road.
Naumkeag — 413-298-3239 x3352. 5 Prospect Hill Road.
Thursdays & Fridays through August 10th at 11am and 2pm – THEATER: The Berkshire Theatre Group presents Rudyard Kipling’s Just So Stories. Kipling’s stories answer questions like, “how did the leopard get its spots?” with witty and whimsical answers sure to entertain audience members of all ages. The show takes place outside on the Neil Ellenoff Stage and runs from July 18 to August 10. See here for the full schedule and list of showtimes. 413-298-5576. 6 East Street. Stockbridge, MA. $$
Thursday, August 1st from 5:30pm-6:30pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Join the Norman Rockwell Museum for an a cappella evening with Quintessential, an all-men’s a cappella group. They will perform Disney songs and others to go along with the Museum’s special exhibition, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: The Creation of a Classic.” 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA.
Friday, August 2nd from 2:30pm-3:30pm – ART HISTORY: Norman Rockwell was one of the most well-known and prolific artists of the 20th Century. He based many of his paintings on current events and relied heavily on the use of models for his works. You can see some of these models as they discuss their experiences and Rockwell’s art at the Norman Rockwell Museum. Free with museum admission. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. $$
Saturday, August 3rd from 1pm-4pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The Norman Rockwell Museum is hosting “Sharing Stories: A Special Family Day.” John Porcino, a storyteller and performer, will be walking the grounds as the Museum’s roaming storyteller, ready to tell you a story or do a magic trick at a moment’s notice! Marmalade Productions will present a shadow puppet performance and workshop where you can learn how to create your own shadow puppets. There will also be other activities and the opportunity to make your own folk tale. Free with museum admission. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. $$
Saturday, August 3rd at 4pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Learn about the history of Stockbridge on the fourth cemetery tour of the summer! This tour’s theme is, “Changed the World: Buried in Stockbridge.” Discover the lives of Stockbridge residents who made history through inventions, ways of thought, and more. 413-298-5501. Main Street & Church Street. Stockbridge, MA. >$
Friday, August 9th from 10:30am – ORNITHOLOGY: Learn about the exciting world of birds of prey with wildlife rehabilitator Tom Ricardi at the Berkshire Botanical Garden. The program will teach you about the history, life cycles, habitats, and behaviors of these birds in order to encourage conservation and respect for the natural world. 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road. Stockbridge, MA.
Friday, August 16th at 10:30am – ANIMAL STUDIES: Would you like to see a wolf up close? The Berkshire Botanical Garden’s Family Fridays offers the opportunity for families to see a presentation by Maggie Howell of the Wolf Conservation Center. Howell will talk about the natural history of wolves in the United States, why they are important to ecosystem health, and the importance of wolf conservation. Joining Howell for her presentation is Atka, an ambassador wolf, who you will get to see up close! Meet in the Education Center. Free with admission. 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road. Stockbridge, MA. $
Saturday, August 17th from 2pm-3pm – MUSIC: The Norman Rockwell Museum presents Stockbridge Sinfonia, the Berkshires’ intergenerational community orchestra. Their performance at the Museum takes place on the Terrace and would be great for older students interested in music. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. (FREE)
Tuesday, August 20th from 12noon-12:30pm – YOGA: Do yoga at Naumkeag with their certified yoga instructor while enjoying the beautiful Fletcher Steele-designed gardens. No prior yoga experience necessary. Free with admission. 413-298-3239 x3013. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. $
Thursday, August 22nd from 10:30am-12:3pm – GARDENING: Seed-Saving in Your New England Garden. Have your children ever wondered where their food and flowers came from? Show them how little seeds can develop into big beautiful plants. Take a walk at Berkshire Botanical Garden about learn about saving seed for future gardens, both vegetable, fruit and flower. This program, best for older students and adults, will focus on correct planting, harvesting, extracting, and storing of heirloom seeds. 413-298-3926. Stockbridge, MA ($)
Thursday, August 22nd at 5:30pm – LECTURE: The Norman Rockwell Museum presents “The Horror and the Beauty: Folklore, Culture, and Children’s Literature with Maria Tartar.” This lecture is all about fairy tales, how they have evolved, and where their themes are present (i.e. in television shows like True Blood or Game of Thrones). Tartar will discuss how the stories have grown and changed across cultures and history. This lecture is best for adults and older students interested in literature – some of the television shows discussed contain mature content. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA.
Friday, August 23rd at 10:30am – ANIMAL STUDIES: Learn about reptiles and amphibians at the Berkshire Botanical Garden’s Family Friday event. Reptile expert Tom Tyning will teach about the many different species that are native to the Berkshire region, and will even have a few for you to observe! Meet in the Education Center. Free with admission. 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road. Stockbridge, MA. $
Friday, August 30th from 10am-5pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Free Fun Friday at the Norman Rockwell Museum allows visitors to see the museum’s many exciting exhibits for free! Their current exhibit, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: The Creation of a Classic,” is an exciting exhibit for visitors of all ages, since it celebrates 75th anniversary of the Disney classic. Free Fun Friday is open to all, so stop by the museum for a day of family fun! 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 10th from 10am-10pm – FESTIVAL: Celebrate zucchini, a delicious summer treat, at the Zucchini Festival. There will be zucchini races and zucchini-themed games all day, along with live music (including kids’ performers), zucchini weigh-offs, zucchini decorating contests, a petting zoo and pet parade, delicious food, and more! — 413-232-0222. Town center. West Stockbridge, MA (FREE)
South Berkshire
Great Barrington | Housatonic | Monterey | New Marlborough | Sheffield
North Berkshire | Central Berkshire
Friday, August 2nd from 10am-3pm – THEATER: It’s Free Fun Friday at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, brought to you by the Highland Street Foundation. This day will be all about Mary Pope Osborne’s Magic Tree House children’s book series. There will be a performance about the magic of reading (11am, 1pm), as well as arts and crafts activities, movement explorations, and Spanish-language activities throughout the day. Free Fun Fridays offer a rare opportunity to participate in special events at museums across Massachusetts, and today’s event at Mahaiwe is no exception. Bring the whole family and experience all the Center has to offer. 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 3rd at 11:30am – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Nutshell Playhouse presents a special performance – Nutshellapalooza! There will be music, puppets, clowns, stories, pirates, and more! Kids of all ages are welcome to enjoy this imaginative show. Takes place at the Mason Library. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.
Sunday, August 4th at 9am – HISTORY/LITERATURE: Join the Berkshire Historical Society and the Trustees of Reservations for the Annual Monument Mountain Hike. The hike recreates one taken by Herman Melville on August 5, 1850, during which he met Nathaniel Hawthorne. Best for adults or older students interested in literature and/or history. Meet at Monument Mountain parking lot. 413-442-1793. Route 7. Great Barrington, MA.
Monday, August 5th from 2pm-5pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Learn how to make paper toys and books at the Mason Library. Fold and cut paper to create 3D scenery and stories. Best for ages 12 and up. Registration is required. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.
Monday, August 5th at 7pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Comedian Rita Rudner is performing at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center. Rudner is an award-winning comedian, television personality, screenwriter, and actress. Buy your tickets in advance and make date night a little more exciting! 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA. $$$
Wednesday, August 7th at 4pm-5pm – GEOLOGY: As part of the Dig Into Reading summer reading program, kids ages 9-12 can learn about crystals, rocks, and geodes at the Mason Library. Kids will even get the chance to make their own rock candy! Registration is required. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.
Friday, August 9th at 6:15pm – FAMILY MOVIE: Come watch Finding Nemo (rated G) at the Mason Library and enjoy popcorn and drinks. Kids can wear pajamas and bring pillows and blankets. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.
Saturday, August 10th from 1:30pm-2:30pm – SUMMER READING: Celebrate your summer reading accomplishments at the Mason Library’s end of summer reading ice cream social! You can make your own sundae and celebrate summer with friends and family. Reservations are required. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.
Monday, August 12th at 6:30pm: FOOD HISTORY: Do you love food, Shakespeare, and movies? The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center presents food historian Francine Segan, who will present her lecture “Shakespeare’s Kitchen,” to be followed by a screening of Franco Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet (1968; rated PG). The lecture focuses on the many food-related traditions present during Shakespeare’s time. This event may also be appropriate for older students interested in food studies, anthropology, Shakespeare, and/or film. 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA. $$
Sunday, August 18th at 7pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Join Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center for a special evening celebrating the 40th anniversary of Free To Be… You and Me, the classic record/book/theater piece/TV special conceived by Marlo Thomas. Thomas, along with Alan Alda and Letty Cottin Pogrebin, will be at Mahaiwe for a panel discussion on this iconic work, which challenges gender and racial stereotypes by empowering children. Tickets are available in advance. Proceeds benefit the Free To Be Foundation and Mahaiwe Education programs. 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA. $$$+
Saturday, August 24th from 3pm-9pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: Listen to great live music from nine different bands, buy crafts and food from local vendors, see live entertainment, and have fun with your community at Great Barrington’s SummerFest! Bring the whole family to this exciting event, where there will be activities for everyone. 413-528-4284. Downtown. Great Barrington, MA.
Saturday, August 10th from 9:30am-10:30am – INSECT STUDIES: Contribute to Project Native’s Butterfly House by attending a Summer Butterfly and Butterfly Safari! Walk the grounds looking for butterflies, caterpillars, and eggs to relocate to the Butterfly House. Learn more about Lepidoptera by gaining skill in finding and even identifying butterflies and by learning to identify host plants. 413-274-3433. 342 North Plain Road. Housatonic, MA.
Sunday, August 18th from 2:30-4:30 – INSECT STUDIES: For those (ages 8 and up) who want to learn more about insects, Project Native is holding an Advanced Bug Safari! Participants will learn how to set several types of insect traps, explore different habitats, and learn all about native insects. 413-274-3433. 242 North Plain Road. Housatonic, MA.
Wednesday, August 21st from 1pm-2:30pm – INSECT STUDIES: Contribute to Project Native’s Butterfly House by attending a Summer Butterfly and Butterfly Safari! Walk the grounds looking for butterflies, caterpillars, and eggs to relocate to the Butterfly House. Learn more about Lepidoptera by gaining skill in finding and even identifying butterflies and by learning to identify host plants. 413-274-3433. 342 North Plain Road. Housatonic, MA.
Saturday, August 24th from 9:30am-10:30am – INSECT STUDIES: Contribute to Project Native’s Butterfly House by attending a Summer Butterfly and Butterfly Safari! Walk the grounds looking for butterflies, caterpillars, and eggs to relocate to the Butterfly House. Learn more about Lepidoptera by gaining skill in finding and even identifying butterflies and by learning to identify host plants. 413-274-3433. 342 North Plain Road. Housatonic, MA.
Bidwell House Museum — 413-528-6888. 100 Art School Road.
Saturday, August 17th from 10am-3pm – HISTORY/CELEBRATION: The New Marlborough Village Association celebrates Elihu Burritt Day at the Village Green. In order to celebrate this famous philanthropist, who resided in New Marlborough in 1830, there will be a 5k run/walk, a jester, a juggler, kids crafts, and an antique car show. The festivities continue from 5pm-7pm at the Firemen’s Pig Roast and Block Dance at the firehouse in Southfield village. 413-229-2785. Hartsville-New Marlborough Road. New Marlborough, MA.
Ashley House — 413-298-3239. Cooper Hill Road.
Bartholomew’s Cobble — 413-229-8600. Weatogue Road.
Thursday, August 1st from 3pm-4:30pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Make natural clay ornaments at the Bushnell Sage Library. This event is part of the Dig Into Reading summer reading program and teaches kids about clay and some of its uses. 413-229-7004. 48 Main Street. Sheffield, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 8th from 3pm-4:30pm – SUMMER READING: Celebrate the Dig Into Reading summer reading program at the Bushnell-Sage Library’s summer reading pizza party! Celebrate your summer reading accomplishments with friends, pizza, and prizes. 413-229-7004. 48 Main Street. Sheffield, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 21st from 4pm-7pm – LOCAL HISTORY/AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES: 2013 marks the 232nd anniversary of Elizabeth Freeman’s famous court case, which helped lead to the end of slavery in Massachusetts. As a slave, Freeman lived at the Ashley House in Sheffield. She was among the first slaves to file a freedom suit, which she won, freeing her and recognizing all people as equal, effectively making slavery illegal. Join the Trustees of Reservations for an Elizabeth Freeman Day celebration at Ashley House. This annual celebration is open to all. 413-298-3239 x 3013. 117 Cooper Hill Road. Sheffield, MA. (FREE)
