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 community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. 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/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.

BULLETIN BOARD

Nov 9, 16, 23, 29-30

See Eric Carle Books Come to Life in Amherst, MA! Picture Book Theatre presents: Mister Seahorse and A House for Hermit Crab. Featuring a talented cast of young dancers from Amherst Ballet, Picture Book Theatre features costumes, large puppets, and stick puppets, all in the style of Carle’s vibrant illustrations. The 45-minute performances will take place at the following times: November 9th at 3:00 pm, November 16th at 2:00 pm, November 23rd at 2:00 pm, and November 29 – 30th at 2:00 and 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $5 and can be reserved in advance by calling The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art 413-658-1126. Museum admission is not required to see the performance. Visit www.carlemuseum.org for details.

Nov 11

Museums Offer Family Programs on November 11 – Visit the Springfield Museums this Veteran’s Day for fun family programs, including a thrilling comic rendition of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by The Puppet People, plus Gallery Science demos, art and costume stations, planetarium shows, and more. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors/college students, $8 for children 3-17 and free for children under three and museum members. General admission is free for Springfield residents with proof of address. The Springfield Museums are located at 21 Edwards Street in downtown Springfield. Free onsite parking is available. For information visit www.springfieldmuseums.org. The Museums’ Family Fun series is supported by the TD Charitable Foundation.

Open Houses: Nov 11

The Williston Northampton School in Easthampton, MA, will host two open houses in November. Please join them for a Middle School Open House (grades 7 and 8) on Monday, November 4, 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the Williston Middle School. The Upper School Open House (grades 9 through 12 and a PG year) is Monday, November 11, from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Reed Campus Center. Meet with their community of faculty, staff, and students, learn about their exceptional academics and afternoon program, and tour their campus and see their classrooms, art spaces, and athletic facilities. For more information and to register, visit www.williston.com/openhouse, call 413-529-3241, or email admission@williston.com.

Nov 21

Cooley Dickinson/Massachusetts General Hospital Lecture Series: Healing Wars’ Invisible Wounds: How Our Community Can Help. More than 45,000 men and women from Massachusetts have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. It’s estimated that more than 450,000 military family members have been affected by the wars. For the health of our community, everyone has a role in keeping our veterans and their families strong. Healing Wars’ Invisible Wounds: How Our Community Can Help, Thursday, Nov. 21, 6-7pm in the Dakin Conference Room at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Speakers will discuss the challenges and issues facing returning veterans and their families. Free and open to the public, registration required: www.cooley-dickinson.org/classes or 888-554-4234.

Nov 24

DIY Menorahs! Spend a fun Sunday morning using unconventional materials to create a unique and beautiful menorah at Knack: The Art of Clever Reuse at Eastworks in Easthampton. This is a one hour project that is perfect for a parent and child to work on together. All the materials & the design will be provided — participants supply the creative inspiration! Sunday, November 24: 9:30-10:30am OR 11am-noon. Appropriate for ages 6+ (with parent or guardian). Workshop taught by Amy Meltzer (support is provided in part by the Harold Grinspoon Foundation). Cost: $18 per menorah (pairs of 2 may enroll together as this activity is perfect for a parent/caregiver & child to do together). info@knack.org. www.knack.org/blog/menorahs

Wed.

Art Alive is offering weekly Wine and Painting classes every Wednesday from 6-8:30pm in downtown Amherst! All ages are welcome in our store, which features an ongoing $5 Craft of the Week and DIY kits in the craft center, but Wine and Painting Wednesdays are strictly for adults. Looking for a Parents’ Night Out? Grab a friend or your partner & enjoy a relaxing evening and bring home your very own painting! Cost is $30; art supplies, snacks & instructor are provided while attendees are encouraged to bring their own beverage. Questions about classes, birthday parties & more: artaliveamherst@gmail.com. Stay current with the Craft of the Week & new items at www.facebook.com/artaliveamherst. Art Alive is located at 35 S. Pleasant St. in Amherst.

Nov Special

Prenatal and Postpartum Support: If you are an expecting mother experiencing morning sickness, insomnia, heartburn, back pain or migraines; know that these symptoms don’t have to ruin your blessed nine months. Window of Heaven Acupuncture & Yoga in Northampton specializes in women’s health, especially the Birthing Year. Chinese Medicine during pregnancy is a gentle, safe way to balance your body and allow you to reconnect with your baby. A stronger, happier mother grows a healthier baby. For more info on prenatal/postnatal care or birth preparation call 413-303-1246 or visit www.windowofheavenacupuncture.com. November Special: Expecting mothers who book appointments in November get $25 off the first appointment and $20 off the second.

Begins Dec 1

In 1836, Ralph Waldo Emerson started the Transcendental Club to bring people together to talk about nature, politics and theology—but he didn’t start Transcendentalism. It began in Northampton 100 years earlier when Sarah and Jonathan Edwards felt God’s presence in its people and places, a feeling that generated both evangelical Christianity and Transcendentalism. This Club, playfully descended from Emerson’s, discovers how Transcendentalism begins here, where we live. Readings, 4 seminars, group discussions and 3 field environmental philosophy outings will leave you with an advanced understanding of Transcendentalism, and of our Nonotuck biome. By the time the Club disbands, you’ll be living someplace new: a more beautiful & inspiring “here.”

Academy Hill School, an Independent school in Springfield, serves students (early learners-eighth grade) from 21 communities. The mission is to provide a challenging, safe, caring, respectful and flexible learning community for children who show early signs of exceptional academic ability, creativity, and /or leadership. AHS provides challenging and personalized learning programs where children experience a variety of academic subjects as well as the arts, world languages, and Latin. AHS guides students to develop a lifelong love of learning, strive for excellence, and provides curriculum and instruction that responds to academic, emotional and social interests. For further information contact 413-788-0300, www.academyhill.org.

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your afterschool class, community event, open house, auditions,homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

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/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

SHOP HANDMADE FOR THE HOLIDAYS THIS WEEKEND

• Handmade for Kids Holiday Fair in Cummington on Saturday
• 21st Arts & Industry Open Studios Holiday Sale in Florence on Saturday & Sunday
• Crafts of Colrain in Colrain on Saturday & Sunday

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LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
November 9th-15th, 2013

Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday

Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | School Closings

Events Happening in the Hilltowns | ♦ On-going Events

Saturday, November 9th, 2013

6-10am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) offers 4-hours of commercial-free family programing every Saturday, including the Hilltown Family Variety Show and Spare the Rock. Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org.

9-10am – HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW: Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. Encore of Saturday’s broadcast airs Sunday morning from 7-8am and podcast is posted here on Hilltown Families immediately following Sunday’s broadcast. Listen to the Hilltown Family Variety Show podcasts anytime. Click here to choose from 6 years of archived show.

9:30am-4pm – GEOLOGY/CRAFT FAIR: The Pioneer Valley Institute’s 17th annual Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Show and Sale takes place today at the Greenfield Community College Dining Commons.  Over a dozen vendors will have rocks, minerals, gemstones, fossils, jewelry, and fine art for sale.  There will be demonstrations and a talk by Dr. Robert Herbert, who will speak about local geology and natural history.  Take the whole family to learn about geology while finding gifts for the little geologist in your life for the upcoming holidays.  413-775-1671.  1 College Drive.  Greenfield, MA.  (FREE)

10am-12noon – BIRD STUDIES: Observe birds and learn about bird banding at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary.  Sanctuary volunteers will demonstrate how to use mist nets and what information can be gathered through bird banding.  Visitors can come and go from the program as they wish.  Free with Sanctuary admission.  413-637-0320.  472 West Mountain Road.  Lenox, MA.  >$

10am-12noon – MYO GIFTS: Learn to make hats, mittens, and tote bags out of recycled wool sweaters at the Buckland Public Library with Peggy Hart.  Some materials will be provided, but it would be helpful if each participant brought some sweaters and sewing supplies. This is a great way to reuse old clothing and to create your own wool items for holiday gifts or to keep for yourself.  Would be best for older students or adults.  Limited to 8 participants, so please register ASAP!  You can sign-up at the library, by phone, or by email (ljacobson-carroll@cwmars.org).  413-625-9412.  30 Upper Street.  Buckland, MA.

10am-3pm – CRAFT FAIR: The Handmade for Kids Holiday Fair, to benefit the Cummington Family Center, takes place at Berkshire Trail Elementary School today!  An annual holiday tradition, the Handmade for Kids Holiday Fair features local handmade gifts for children, including clothing, art, pottery, toys, games, costumes, and more.  There is also a bake sale, raffle, and several crafting workshops.  The Holiday Fair is a creative place to shop for holiday gifts made by local artists and crafters, and a fun way to discover creative gift ideas!  2 Main Street.  Cummington, MA.  (FREE ADMISSION)

10am-4pm – PLANT STUDIES: The Fall Chrysanthemum Show is happening at the Botanic Garden of Smith College.  The show runs every day until 10/17, and features many beautiful flowers throughout Lyman Conservatory.  This flower show is a fun trip for the whole family and is not to be missed, especially the banana plant!  413-585-2740.  College Lane.  Northampton, MA.

10am-4pm – CRAFT FAIR: The Great Barrington Rudolf Steiner School invites community members to their 41st annual Holiday Handcraft Fair.  This is a creative way to welcome the holiday season, and features puppet shows, hayrides, candle dipping, carnival games, kid’s crafts, and tons of handmade items.  This event is meant to celebrate community, the holidays, and handmade gifts and treats.  413-528-4015.  35 West Plain Road.  Great Barrington, MA.  (FREE)

10am-5pm – CRAFT FAIR: The 21st Arts & Industry Open Studios Holiday Sale in Florence is hosting their annual open studios event this weekend.  Visitors to this holiday sale and art show will find textiles, clothing, jewelry, pottery, woodwork, photography, paintings, prints, and more.  It’s also a great way to meet local artists and learn about their processes and work.  There will also be demonstrations, music, and food.  This is a great way to support the local art scene and find unique handmade gifts for the holidays.  221 Pine Street.  Florence, MA.

10am-5pm – CRAFT FAIR: Discover the many wonderful artists of Colrain at the Crafts of Colrain Studio Tour, taking place 11/9 and 11/10.  Many different studios will open their doors for visitors to explore and learn about their art and how it is made.  Featured studios do woodworking, fiber art, baskets, jewelry, pottery, illustration, metalsmithing, and more.  Discover local artists and learn about many different art forms.  Find local handmade gifts for the holidays!  More information can be found on the Crafts of Colrain website.  Colrain, MA.

10:30am-4pm – CULINARY ARTS/HISTORY: Historic Deerfield’s Open Hearth Cooking program focuses on pies this month!  Come learn about the delicious sweet and savory pies that people in the past in New England made.  413-774-5581.  84B Old Main Street.  Deerfield, MA.

10:30am-4pm – HISTORY: This Veterans Day weekend, Historic Deerfield presents “On the Battlefield: Military Attire in 18th Century New England,” a demonstration on the practical and symbolic uses of military attire of the past.  Tailor Henry Cooke will tailor a historic uniform and discuss the history of military attire and how it has changed over time.  Through the lens of an 18th-Century trade, families will have a unique view of military history unveiled to them.  Veterans and active military and their families get free admission.  Free with museum admission.  413-774-5581.  84B Old Main Street.  Deerfield, MA.  $

11am – FAMILY CONCERT: The Northampton Community Music Center presents Nick Deysher at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art.  Deysher performs rock, pop, reggae, jazz, and funk tunes for families, covering themes like dinosaurs and outer space with his clever and fun lyrics… making it fun for kids of all ages!  Tickets go on sale at 10:30am the day of the concert.  Seats are limited, so arrive early!  413-658-1100.  125 West Bay Road.  Amherst, MA.  $

11am-12:30pm – LITERACY/STORYTIME: The Jones Library presents “Family Adventures in Reading,” a storytelling program for families. Storytelling has many benefits for young children, like encouraging creative thinking, listening and interpretation skills, and language art development. Storyteller Motoko Dworkin will read stories and lead discussions on topics such as courage, fairness, and dreams. A native of Osaka, Japan, Motoko has appeared on the “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood” and is a gifted storyteller. For kids 6 and older and their parents.  For kids 6 and older and their parents.  Please call to sign up.  413-259-3091.  43 Amity Street.  Amherst, MA.

11am-12:30pm – CRAFTS: Sharon Raymond from Simple Shoemaking Company is leading a shoemaking workshop at the Handmade for Kids Holiday Fair.  Raymond will teach participants how to make shoes for a small child.  Come to the workshop and leave with the beautiful and utilitarian gift of shoes for a new walker in your life! Give handmade this holiday season! For ages 8 and up.  2 Main Street.  Cummington, MA.  (FREE ADMISSION)

11am – FAMILY MOVIE: The Lee Library is screening Monsters University (2013; rated G), the prequel to 2001’s Monster’s Inc.  This fun family movie is about two friendly monsters, Mike and Sully, and their experiences at Monsters University.  Good for all ages.  413-243-0385.  100 Main Street.  Lee, MA.  (FREE)

1pm – MAGIC SHOW: Magician Scott Jameson will be at the Holyoke Public Library today to entertain kids of all ages!  The whole family will enjoy this fun show.  413-322-5640.  335 Maple Street.  Holyoke, MA.

1pm-4pm – COMMUNITY SERVICE: Spend time outdoors and help your community by assisting with preparing the gardens for spring at Greenfield Energy Park.  Come by anytime or stay the whole time, and bring garden gloves, tools, buckets, etc.  This community service event is open to all ages, so bring the family and volunteer together cleaning up a town treasure.  Please RSVP and direct any questions to nhazard@worldsustain.net.  50 Miles Street.  Greenfield, MA.  (FREE)

3pm – CHILDREN’S THEATER: The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art presents “Mr. Seahorse and a House for Hermit Crab,” a Picture Book Theatre performance based on the book by Eric Carle.  Kids can see their favorite stories come to life at the fun and unique performances.  Tickets can be purchased in advance.  413-658-1126.  125 West Bay Road.  Amherst, MA.  >$

4pm-6pm – CHILDREN’S BOOKS/COMICS: Greg Ruth, author of The Lost Boy, a graphic novel about a boy working to solve dark mysteries will be at Elmer’s Store for a book signing, reception, and gallery show featuring original pages, drawings, and sketches from the book.  Ruth will speak about the process of creating a graphic novel and what it’s like to be a professional artist.  This event would be interested to kids who like graphic novels and reading.  Call for more information.  413-628-4003.  396 Main Street.  Ashfield, MA.

5pm-7pm – COMMUNITY MEAL: Tonight the Friends of the Palmer Monson Family Network are holding their 8th Annual Spaghetti Supper to benefit the Family Network.  There will be food, raffles, prizes, and kids’ activities.  Support a great local resource while interacting with and meeting new community members!  Tickets are available in advance.  Family packs also available.  Kids under 5 get in for free.  Takes place at Old Mill Pond Elementary School.  413-283-6246.  4107 Main Street.  Palmer, MA.  $$

5pm-8pm – ART WALK:  Discover local art at Art Walk Easthampton!  Local galleries will open their doors for community members to see special exhibits and do activities.  This month’s Art Walk celebrates ten years of the Invisible Fountain!  There will also be a fundraiser for Daking Pioneer Valley Humane Society, an electronic music festival, and much more.  More information can be found on the Easthampton City Arts+ website.  413-527-8278.  Downtown.  Easthampton, MA.  (FREE)

6pm – HISTORY: “An Evening of Illumination” at Old Sturbridge Village allows visitors to experience evening as early New Englanders did – by candlelight, oil lamps, and firelight.  This unique tour occurs once a year and gives viewers a new way to experience Sturbridge Village while learning about history.  Tours leave every ten minutes and tickets must be purchased in advance.  More information available here.  800-733-1830.  1 Old Sturbridge Village Road.  Sturbridge, MA.  $$$

6pm – COMMUNITY MEAL: The North Hadley Congregational Church is hosting an Old Fashioned New England Ham and Bean Supper.  Community members of all ages can come together and connect over delicious, hearty food.  413-586-2021.  243 River Drive.  Hadley, MA.  $

6:30pm: FOOD HISTORY: Do you love food and the opera?  The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center presents food historian Francine Segan, who will present her lecture “Opera Lover’s Cookbook.”  Segan will discuss the role of food in opera using film stills and snippets that illustrate memorable dining moments in opera.  This talk would be best for older students interested in food studies or opera.  413-528-0100.  14 Castle Street.  Great Barrington, MA.  $$

7pm-9pm – HIKING/NATURE STUDIES: Join Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary for a Family Night Hike.  Listen for nighttime sounds, discover the outdoors in the dark, play games, make sparks with rocks, and learn about the many nocturnal animals native to the area.  Registration is required.  413-584-3009.  127 Combs Road.  Easthampton, MA.  $

7:30pm – LOCAL HISTORY: The Skinner Servants’ Tour is happening at the Wistariahurst Museum this November.  In collaboration with Enchanted Circle Theater, the Servants’ Tour is a performance that allows guests to discover the Skinner Family Home as it was in 1927, and to learn about the disparate lives of the rich and the poor. Best known for their production of silk and their Western MA silk mills, bring the family for an engaging lesson about local history and the private life of the family behind Skinner and Sons Manufacturing in Holyoke. Tickets must be purchased in advance.  413-322-5660.  238 Cabot Street.  Holyoke, MA.  $$$

7:30pm – THEATER: Black Cat Theater presents The Music Man, a performance about a traveling salesman who cons citizens of an Iowa city into buying musical instruments and uniforms for a boy’s band.  Just as he’s about to skip town, he falls for the librarian and she helps him change his ways.  This fun performance takes place at South Hadley High School.  413-563-6023.  153 Newton Street.  South Hadley, MA.  $$

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

TBA – DINNER/AUCTION: The West Cummington Congregational Church is holding their 12th annual auction and dinner tonight.  Spend time with community members and support a local church.  Call for more information.  413-634-8098.  27 West Main Street.  Cummington, MA.  $$$

7pm-10pm – DANCE PARTY: Come out and dance the night away to support Grow Food Northampton!  This “Fall Down Dance Party” features rock, funk, soul, and disco tunes to get you movin’ and supporting a good cause.  There will also be refreshments and a raffle.  Takes place at Williamsburg Grange Hall.  413-584-0081.  10 Main Street.  Williamsburg, MA.  $$

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Sunday, November 10TH, 2013

7-8am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) airs encores the Hilltown Family Variety Show every Sunday morning. commercial-free family radio. 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 6 years of archived shows.

10am – JEWISH TRADITIONS/ARTS & CRAFTS: Kids ages 3-5 can come to Lander Grinspoon Academy for Hanukkah decoration making.  Young kids can exercise their creativity while preparing for the upcoming holiday.  Please call for more information.  413-584-6622.  257 Prospect Street.  Northampton, MA.  (FREE)

10am-5pm – CRAFT FAIR: The Arts and Industry Building in Florence is hosting their annual open studios event this weekend.  Visitors to this holiday sale and art show will find textiles, clothing, jewelry, pottery, woodwork, photography, paintings, prints, and more.  It’s also a great way to meet local artists and learn about their processes and work.  There will also be demonstrations, music, and food.  This is a great way to support the local art scene and find unique handmade gifts for the holidays.  221 Pine Street.  Florence, MA.

10am-5pm – CRAFT FAIR: Discover the many wonderful artists of Colrain at the Crafts of Colrain Studio Tour, taking place 11/9 and 11/10.  Many different studios will open their doors for visitors to explore and learn about their art and how it is made.  Featured studios do woodworking, fiber art, baskets, jewelry, pottery, illustration, metalsmithing, and more.  Discover local artists and learn about many different art forms.  Find local handmade gifts for the holidays!  More information can be found on the Crafts of Colrain website.  Colrain, MA.

10am-4pm – PLANT STUDIES: The Fall Chrysanthemum Show is happening at the Botanic Garden of Smith College.  The show runs every day until 10/17, and features many beautiful flowers throughout Lyman Conservatory.  This flower show is a fun trip for the whole family and is not to be missed, especially the banana plant!  413-585-2740.  College Lane.  Northampton, MA.

2pm – THEATER: Black Cat Theater presents The Music Man, a performance about a traveling salesman who cons citizens of an Iowa city into buying musical instruments and uniforms for a boy’s band.  Just as he’s about to skip town, he falls for the librarian and she helps him change his ways.  This fun performance takes place at South Hadley High School.  413-563-6023.  153 Newton Street.  South Hadley, MA.  $$

2pm – LOCAL HISTORY: The Skinner Servants’ Tour is happening at the Wistariahurst Museum this November.  In collaboration with Enchanted Circle Theater, the Servants’ Tour is a performance that allows guests to discover the Skinner Family Home as it was in 1927, and to learn about the disparate lives of the rich and the poor. Best known for their production of silk and their Western MA silk mills, bring the family for an engaging lesson about local history and the private life of the family behind Skinner and Sons Manufacturing in Holyoke. Tickets must be purchased in advance.  413-322-5660.  238 Cabot Street.  Holyoke, MA.  $$$

2pm – SOAP MAKING: Come to the Haberdashery for a soap making workshop and craft social.  Older students and adults can come and learn all the steps of basic soap making, from extracting lye from wood ash to putting the soap into a mold.  This is a fun way to learn a new skill and the science behind soap making.  Please bring your own container to use as a soap mold.  Cost includes workshop and one bar of soap.  201-312-8832.  63 Bradford Street.  Northampton, MA.  >$

2:15pm-3:15pm – PLAYGROUP: Join the Community Network for Children for “Let’s Get Moving” playgroup at the Greenfield YMCA.  Children in grade 3 and younger can come play in the gymnastics gym’s foam pit, on climbing structures, balance beams, and more.  This program is a great way for kids to improve their balance skills while having fun.  978-544-5157.  451 Main Street.  Greenfield, MA.  (FREE)

3pm – IMMIGRATION STUDIES/FILM STUDIES: “Fast Forward: New Filmmakers at Historic Northampton” features films by two young filmmakers, Masami Kawai and Sasha Hsuczyk.  Kawai’s film, Whose Dream? Which Cut?, is about the filmmaker’s attempt to convince her mother to become a labor activist.  This documentary interviews different labor activists and traces labor alliances between Japanese and Mexican workers.  Hsuczyk’s film, 18 Mile Beach, reflects on the filmmaker’s mother-daughter relationship in China and the United States.  She explores her Chinese heritage, and that of her mother, through this film, which was shot by her grandfather in 1968 in China and has been narrated over with her experiences.  More information about the films and filmmakers available here.  413-584-6011.  46 Bridge Street.  Northampton, MA.

3pm-4:30pm – CONCERT: Come see Eagles Brass Band at the Spectrum Playhouse!  This concert will help the whole family get ready for the holiday season, with traditional brass pieces as well as contemporary and pop arrangements.  A great chance to hear exciting music.  20 Franklin Street.  Lee, MA.  SUGGESTED DONATION >$

5:30pm-8pm – COMMUNITY SING & DINNER: Earthdance is holding a community sing and potluck (7pm) tonight!  Penny Schultz, Earthdance co-founder, brings community members together through song.  This event is open to all ages and is a great way to engage children in music and help them spend time with community members of all ages.  413-634-5678.  252 Prospect Street. Plainfield, MA.  >$/SUGGESTED DONATION

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Monday, November 11th, 2013

VETERANS DAY

Open House Today!

9:30am-4pm – HISTORY: Old Sturbridge Village is open this Veterans Day for a day full of activities relating to the United States’ military history.  Learn how lead musket balls were cast, see how weapons and uniforms have changed over time, see a weapons demonstration, meet important military figures from the past, and more.  Active, veteran, and retired members of the military and their families receive free admission on this special day.  800-733-1830.  1 Old Sturbridge Village Road.  Sturbridge, MA.  $$

Open Classroom Today!

10am-4pm – PLANT STUDIES: The Fall Chrysanthemum Show is happening at the Botanic Garden of Smith College.  The show runs every day until 10/17, and features many beautiful flowers throughout Lyman Conservatory.  This flower show is a fun trip for the whole family and is not to be missed, especially the banana plant!  413-585-2740.  College Lane.  Northampton, MA.

Open House Today!

12noon-1pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Stop by Hampshire College for Inflatable Animals Hour, inspired by the work of Joshua Allen Harris. Kids and their families can exercise their creativity by making fun inflated animals using recycled materials like bike parts, recycled bags, and fans.  Hampshire College students, staff, and faculty will be in attendance, making this a great opportunity for intergenerational fun and a good way to spend time with your community.  893 West Street.  Amherst, MA.  (FREE)

1pm – PUPPET SHOW: The Springfield Museums presents a “thrilling comic rendition” of Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow performed by The Puppet People.  The performance focuses on themes of bullying, jealousy, and superstition and features hand-crafted marionettes, life-sized puppets, and folk music.  Free with museum admission.  Because today is Veterans Day, active and retired members of the military get in for free.  800-625-7738.  21 Edwards Street.  Springfield, MA.  $

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Tuesday, November 12th, 2013

10am-4pm – PLANT STUDIES: The Fall Chrysanthemum Show is happening at the Botanic Garden of Smith College.  The show runs every day until 10/17, and features many beautiful flowers throughout Lyman Conservatory.  This flower show is a fun trip for the whole family and is not to be missed, especially the banana plant!  413-585-2740.  College Lane.  Northampton, MA.

6:30pm – SPELLING BEE: The Mary Lyon Foundation’s annual Community Spelling Bee is tonight at Mohawk Trail Regional High School!  Adults can form teams of three people per term and compete for trophies, sponsors, and raffle prizes.  Proceeds from the Bee go toward the Mini-Grant program for innovative, educational, replicable projects and the student assistance fund for public school students in need.  Show off your spelling skills with friends for a good cause!  413-625-2555.  26 Ashfield Road.  Shelburne Falls, MA.

7pm-8:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Are you concerned that your child or teen may have anxiety?  Lynn Lyons, LICSW, presents “Anxious Kids, Anxious Parents” at Mt. Greylock Regional High School’s Meeting Room.  Lyons will speak about anxiety in kids and teens, how this affects them and their families, and parents and family can do to help.  413-458-9582.  1781 Cold Spring Road.  Williamstown, MA.

ONGOING FOR TUESDAYS (The season is changing and we are updating our list with ongoing summer activities! To add your ongoing event/activity here, email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com)

• 9am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Amherst Family Center has drop-in playgroup every Monday, including snacks, circle time, activities, and more.  413-256-1145.  1200 North Pleasant Street.  North Amherst, MA
• 9:30am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: The CHP Family Center is holding a “Toddler Steps” playgroup for kids 18 months to three years.  Takes place at CHP Family Services Building every Tuesday and Thursday.  413-464-5095. Great Barrington, MA (FREE)
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Northampton Parents Center is open every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-11:30am for playgroup, stories, snacks, and circle time.  For pre-K children and their siblings.  413-582-2636.  297 Main Street, lower level.  Northampton, MA.  
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The South Hadley Family Center offers playgroups every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-11:30am at All Saints Episcopal Church.  Stop by for open play, crafts, stories, music, and more.  413-533-7096.  7 Woodbridge Street.  South Hadley, MA.  (FREE)
• 9:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Belchertown Family Center is open every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-12noon for drop-in playgroup.  413-283-7594.  720 Franklin Street.  Belchertown, MA.
• 9:30am-12noon – PARENT/CHILD GROUP: Gateway Family Center offers a parent-child school readiness group every Tuesday from until June.  413-667-2203.  9 Russell Road.  Huntington, MA. (FREE)
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Palmer Monson Family Network’s drop-in playgroup runs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and is open to families with young children.  Creative play, snack time, and circle time.  413-283-6246.  4 Springfield Street.  Three Rivers, MA.  (FREE)
• 10am – STORYTIME: Storytime for toddlers at the Berkshire Athenaeum.  413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA.  (FREE)
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly playgroup at Sunderland Elementary School for kids 5 and under.  Every Tuesday and Friday.  Old Amherst Road.  Sunderland, MA.
• 10am-11am – STORYTIME: Join the Greenfield Public Library for a weekly storytime!  This event includes stories, songs, fingerplays, and crafts for kids age five and under.  413-772-1544 x5.  402 Main Street.  Greenfield, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Playgroup for pre-K kids with educational games and hands-on activities.  Takes place at Haskins Center.  413-663-6593.  210 State Street.  North Adams, MA.
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Easthampton Family Center is open every Monday, Tuesday, and Friday from 10am-12noon.  413-527-5496.  43 Main Street.  Easthampton, MA.
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: The Great Barrington Rudolf Steiner School announces the return of “Rhyme Time” to Matrushka Toys and Gifts.  Rhyme Time is a weekly, drop-in event for young children and their caregivers, and it features seasonal songs, nursery rhymes, and puppetry.  413-528-6911.  309 Main Street.  Great Barrington, MA.
• 10:30am – MUSIC: Sing with your baby at the Jones Library!  Preschool-aged children and their parents can come to the library to learn songs and musical games.  This is a great chance to introduce your young children to music.  Runs every Tuesday until November 12.  413-259-3090.  43 Amity Street.  Amherst, MA.
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: The Great Barrington Rudolf Steiner School hosts Rhyme Time, a song and story circle for young children with a parent or caregiver, at Matrushka Toys and Gifts. All are welcome to this weekly drop-in event. Led by Waldorf parent-child teacher Trice Atchison, Rhyme Time engages babies and young children in seasonal songs, nursery rhymes and simple puppetry. 413-528-6911. 309 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA (FREE)
• 11am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Every Tuesday is toddler storytime at the Lenox Library!  Come by for interactive board books, stories, songs, and fingerplays.  For kids 18 months to 3 years.  413-637-0197.  18 Main Street.  Lenox, MA.  (FREE)
• 11am – STORYTIME: Come by the Goodwin Memorial Library for “Lunatunes!” a dynamic storytime with songs, movement, stories, and original art.  For babies through age 5.  413-584-7451.  Route 47 & Route 9.  Hadley, MA.  (FREE)
• 11am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Every Tuesday is storytime for preschoolers and toddlers at the Lenox Library!  Come by for interactive board books, stories, songs, and fingerplays.  For kids 18 months to 5 years.  413-637-0197.  18 Main Street.  Lenox, MA.  (FREE)
• 11am-12:30pm – STORYTIME: Weekly story time, snack and get-together for preK kids and their caregivers. Becket-Washington Library. 413-623-5483. 3367 Main Street. Becket, MA (FREE)
• 3-5pm – TEENS: The Lilly Library hosts a weekly, drop in teen program for ages 12-17yo. Activities include games, crafts, book chat, movies, snacks. 413-587-1500. 19 Meadow Street. Florence, MA (FREE)
• 3pm – LEGOS: Lego Club is every Tuesday at the Bushnell-Sage Library!  Come to the library and make new friends while creating Lego masterpieces.  413-229-7004.  48 Main Street.  Sheffield, MA.
• 3:30pm-4:30pm – LEGOS: Lego Club meets at the Adams Library the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.  For kids 4-8.  Please call to sign up.  413-664-4821.  92 Park Street.  Adams, MA.  
• 5:30pm-6:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Come to Gabriel Abbott Memorial School Gym for a gym group for kids up to age 8.  The group is all about indoor active play, but also includes an art project, circle time, and a snack.  Siblings welcome.  413-663-6593.  56 N Country Road.  Florida, MA.
• 6:30pm – STORYTIME: It’s Pajama Storytime at the Monson Free Library!  Wear your pajamas and enjoy stories and fun.  Happens the second Tuesday of each month.  413-267-3866.  2 High Street.  Monson, MA.

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Wednesday, November 13th, 2013

World Kindness Day

10am-4pm – PLANT STUDIES: The Fall Chrysanthemum Show is happening at the Botanic Garden of Smith College.  The show runs every day until 10/17, and features many beautiful flowers throughout Lyman Conservatory.  This flower show is a fun trip for the whole family and is not to be missed, especially the banana plant!  413-585-2740.  College Lane.  Northampton, MA.

7-8:30pm – IMMIGRATION STUDIES: The Northampton Human Rights Commission invites families with older students to attend a special event spotlighting the stories of refugees and immigrants living in the community. Becoming a New American: Experiences of Refugees and Immigrants is a panel of refugees and immigrants from a variety of backgrounds, as well as people who help with the resettlement process that newcomers to the community go through.  The group’s goal in hosting the event is to help to facilitate a successful resettlement process for new families, but there are many other things that can be learned by attending.  Students with some background in American and world history can piece together a better understanding of what it really means to be a refugee by hearing firsthand accounts of the refugee experience.  While the information shared will be in a modern context, some of the themes of the refugee experience are timeless and do not depend on context.  Students can also learn about the intricacies of the process of gaining citizenship, and the things that new Americans must learn in order to be considered eligible for citizenship.  The event will take place in the Coolidge Museum at the Forbes Library. 413-923-8144. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA (FREE)

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

6-8:30pm – ART CLASS: Art Alive is offering weekly Wine and Painting classes every Wednesday in downtown Amherst!  Grab a friend or your partner & enjoy a relaxing evening and bring home your very own painting! 35 S. Pleasant St. Amherst, MA ($$)

ONGOING FOR WEDNESDAYS (The season is changing and we are updating our list with ongoing summer activities! To add your ongoing event/activity here, email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com)

• 9am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Palmer Monson Family Network’s infant/toddler group runs every Wednesday.  Kids age 2 and under can explore age-appropriate toys and the playroom, and enjoy a snack and circle time.  Please no children or siblings over age 2.  413-283-6246.  4 Springfield Street.  Three Rivers, MA.  (FREE)
• 9am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Amherst Family Center has drop-in playgroup every Monday, including snacks, circle time, activities, and more.  413-256-1145.  1200 North Pleasant Street.  North Amherst, MA
• 9am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: Kids from birth to age five and their caregivers can come to the First Congregational Church of Hatfield for playgroup, including snacks, stories, and songs.  413-586-4998 x102.  41 Main Street.  Hatfield, MA.
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Stop by the Cummington Family Center for playgroup for kids 5 and under!  There will be stories, arts and crafts, songs, and playtime.  Takes place at Community House.  Main Street.  Cummington, MA.
• 9:30am-11am – PLAYGROUP: There will be a loosely structured playgroup at the Clapp Memorial Library every Wednesday for kids from birth to age five.  413-323-0417.  19 South Main Street.  Belchertown, MA.
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: There will be playgroup every Wednesday at the Lenox Community Center.  413-464-5095.  65 Walker Street.  Lenox, MA.  (FREE)
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Northampton Parents Center is open every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-11:30am for playgroup, stories, snacks, and circle time.  For pre-K children and their siblings.  413-582-2636.  297 Main Street, lower level.  Northampton, MA.  
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The South Hadley Family Center offers playgroups every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-11:30am at All Saints Episcopal Church.  Stop by for open play, crafts, stories, music, and more.  413-533-7096.  7 Woodbridge Street.  South Hadley, MA.  (FREE)
• 9:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Belchertown Family Center is open every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-12noon for drop-in playgroup.  413-283-7594.  720 Franklin Street.  Belchertown, MA.
• 10am – STORYTIME: Weekly storytime at the Holyoke Public Library.  413-322-5640.  335 Maple Street.  Holyoke, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Come by the Westhampton Library for playgroup the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.  Features games, arts and crafts, and storytime.  For kids 8 and under.  1 North Road.  Westhampton, MA.
• 10:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Stop by the Edwards Library on the first and third Wednesday of each month for playgroup.  Storytime, games, and arts and crafts are featured.  For kids 8 and under.  30 East Street.  Southampton, MA
• 10am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Weekly storytime at the New Marlborough Library.  413-464-5095.  1 Mill River-Great Barrington Road.  New Marlborough, MA.  (FREE)
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly playgroup at Erving Elementary School for kids 5 and under.  Sponsored by Community Network for Children.  978-544-5157.  Northfield Road.  Erving, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly playgroup at Wendell Free Library for kids 5 and under.  Sponsored by Community Network for Children.  978-544-5157.  7 Wendell Depot Road.  Wendell, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly Tales and Tunes playgroup at the Leverett Library for kids 5 and under.  Sponsored by Community Network for Children.  978-544-5157.  75 Montague Road.  Leverett, MA.
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Playgroup at the Gateway Family Center every Wednesday and Friday.  413-667-2203.  9 Russell Road.  Huntington, MA.
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: It’s storytime at the Monson Free Library for kids ages 2-5!  Come by for stories, snacks, crafts, and fun.  413-267-3866.  2 High Street.  Monson, MA.
• 10:30am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Come to the Mason Square Branch Library for storytime, songs, and crafts.  For ages 3-8.  413-263-6853.  765 State Street.  Springfield, MA.
• 11am – STORYTIME: Weekly story hour at the Tilton Library.  413-665-4683.  75 North Main Street.  South Deerfield, MA.
• 11am – STORYTIME: Join the Dickinson Memorial Library for storytime every Wednesday.  There will be movement, stories, music, crafts, and a snack.  413-498-2455.  115 Main Street.  Northfield, MA.
• 11am – STORYTIME: Preschoolers and their caregivers can come to storytime at the Dickinson Memorial Library every Wednesday for stories, music, movement, and crafts. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA.
• 1pm-4pm – HIKING: Explore Mt. Greylock’s exciting and hidden features and learn all about the mountain in the process.  413-499-4262.  30 Rockwell Road.  Lanesborough, MA.
• 3pm – CHESS: Chess Club is every Wednesday at the Bushnell-Sage Library!  Come to the library and make new friends while improving your chess skills.  413-229-7004.  48 Main Street.  Sheffield, MA.
• 4pm-5pm –  LEGOS: The Berkshire Athenaeum hosts LEGO Club on the third Wednesday of each month. Kids can use LEGOs to experiment with basic principles of architecture, physics, and design. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA.  (FREE)
• 4pm – CHESS: Kids from kindergarten to 8th grade can drop by the East Longmeadow Public Library for chess!  This weekly program is open to kids of all skill levels, from beginner to chess pro.  Come make new friends and improve your chess skills.  413-525-5400 x4.  60 Center Square.  East Longmeadow, MA.  (FREE)
• 6:30pm – STORYTIME: Pajama storytime for kids ages 3-6 at the East Longmeadow Library.  413-525-5400 x1506.  60 Center Square.  East Longmeadow, MA.
• 7:30pm-10:30pm – DANCE: Beginners and people of all skill levels can come dance the night away at Downtown Amherst Contra! This is a great way to have fun and meet new people in a low-pressure environment. Beginners can show up at 7 for a learning session. Best for older students and adults. Every Wednesday except the second Wednesday of each month. 99 Main Street. Amherst, MA. $

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Thursday, November 14th, 2013

TBA – SPELLING BEE: The Mary Lyon Foundation’s annual Student Spelling Bee is today at Mohawk Trail Regional High School!  The top 5th and 6th grade spellers will compete at this event, coordinated by the National Honor Society.  413-625-2555.  26 Ashfield Road.  Shelburne Falls, MA.

9am-12noon – VOLUNTEER: Take part in the Trustees of Reservations’ Eco-Volunteers program today at Bartholomew’s Cobble!  Help monitor and care for the reserve’s trails, plants, and animals by volunteering.  A great way to get older kids involved in community service and volunteering projects.  413-229-8600.  105 Weatogue Road.  Sheffield, MA.  (FREE)

9:30am – PLAYGROUP: Learn and Play Group at the Holyoke Children’s Museum features play, reading, and crafts for young children.  This week’s book is  The Dragon’s Cold by John Talbot.  Kids can come and hear the story, do a letter and sound recognition activity, and make paper bag dragons.  This is a fun way for young children to make friends, be creative, and learn.  413-536-5437.  444 Dwight Street.  Holyoke, MA.  >$

10am-4pm – PLANT STUDIES: The Fall Chrysanthemum Show is happening at the Botanic Garden of Smith College.  The show runs every day until 10/17, and features many beautiful flowers throughout Lyman Conservatory.  This flower show is a fun trip for the whole family and is not to be missed, especially the banana plant!  413-585-2740.  College Lane.  Northampton, MA.

4:30pm-5:30pm – SCIENCE: Kids in grade 4-6 are welcome to attend the Monson Free Library’s “Fizz Boom Splat Science Club.”  Learn about fossils and do hands-on activities.  413-267-3866.  2 High Street.  Monson, MA.

6:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Jacquelyn Sweeney from Valley Human Services presents a free workshop, “The Effects of Violence on Children.” In this workshop, you will learn the differences between healthy and unhealthy relationships. Takes place at the Palmer Monson Family Network. Registration required. Free childcare. 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA (FREE)

7pm – FILM STUDIES/CULTURAL STUDIES: “Contemporary Women Filmmakers in the Muslim World” is part of the Jones Library’s Bridging Cultures: Muslim Journeys programming.  Anne Ciecko, professor of communications at UMass Amherst, will lead this presentation on Muslim women filmmakers and representations of gender and Muslim identities in their films.  Older students interested in Muslim culture, film, and women’s studies would be interested in this event.  413-259-3090.  43 Amity Street.  Amherst, MA.

7pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: “A Caregiver’s Guide for the Holidays” at Berkshire Athenaeum is a workshop for caregivers of seniors, presented by Bob Dean, director of Navigation for Caregivers.  This workshop is meant to help caregivers navigate stressful holiday situations and re-evaluate holiday expectations in order to make new traditions, if necessary.  Caring for an elderly family can be stressful, and this workshop is meant to assist caregivers during this important time of year.  413-499-9480.  1 Wendell Avenue.  Pittsfield, MA.

Thursday, November 14th at 7:30pm – THEATER/SHAKESPEARE: Taconic Theatre kicks off the Fall Festival of Shakespeare with a production of King Lear at the Taconic High School auditorium.  This Shakespearean tragedy would be best for students interested in theater or Shakespeare.  413-448-9634.  96 Valentine Road.  Pittsfield, MA.  $

7:30pm – LITERACY: Stephen Apkon, founder and executive director of the Jacob Burns Film Center and the Media Arts Lab in Pleasantville, NY, will be at Amherst Cinema to speak about his new book, The Age of the Image: Redefining Literacy in a World of Screens.  Apkon draws on the history of literacy, its values in real-world situations, and the science of how storytelling works on the human brain to argue that we must transform the ways we teach, create, and communicate in order to better suit the needs of people in the 21st century.  This event is best for parents or educators, but may be interesting to some older students with audience skills.  Tickets are free but reservations are required.  413-253-2547.  28 Amity Street.  Amherst, MA.  (FREE)

7:30pm – MUSIC/CULTURAL STUDIES: Japanese rhythm group Yamato performs at the UMass Fine Arts Center as part of their 20th anniversary tour.  The group is known for their superb choreography and energetic live performances in which they connect ancient and modern drumming traditions.  Family members of all ages will enjoy this lively performance.  Takes place in Fine Arts Center Concert Hall.  Tickets can be purchased in advance.  413-545-2511.  151 Presidents Drive.  Amherst, MA.  $$-$$$

ONGOING FOR THURSDAYS (The season is changing and we are updating our list with ongoing summer activities! To add your ongoing event/activity here, email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com)

11:30am-12:15pm – MUSIC & MOVEMENT: Leticia Davies will offer a Mommy & Me class at Amherst Montessori School for children ages 0-3 with a parent/caregiver, from October 3 – November 21. This eight week class will combine singing and movement with instruments and pretend. Cost for the eight-week session is $100. More information at www.amherstmontessori.org.  413-253-3101. 27 Pomeroy Lane. Amherst, MA ($$$)

• 9am-12:30pm – PLAYGROUP: The Amherst Family Center has drop-in playgroup every Monday, including snacks, circle time, activities, and more.  413-256-1145.  1200 North Pleasant Street.  North Amherst, MA
• 9:30am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: The CHP Family Center is holding a “Toddler Steps” playgroup for kids 18 months to three years.  Takes place at CHP Family Services Building every Tuesday and Thursday.  413-464-5095.  Great Barrington, MA (FREE)
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Northampton Parents Center is open every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-11:30am for playgroup, stories, snacks, and circle time.  For pre-K children and their siblings.  413-582-2636.  297 Main Street, lower level.  Northampton, MA.
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The South Hadley Family Center offers playgroups every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-11:30am at All Saints Episcopal Church.  Stop by for open play, crafts, stories, music, and more.  413-533-7096.  7 Woodbridge Street.  South Hadley, MA.  (FREE)
• 9:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Belchertown Family Center is open every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-12noon for drop-in playgroup.  413-283-7594.  720 Franklin Street.  Belchertown, MA.
• 9:45am-10:45am – ARTS & CRAFTS: The Amelia Park Children’s Museum offers weekly arts and crafts activities for kids. The theme changes each week, but the activity is always fun, educational, and often connected to other things at the museum. 413-572-4014. 29 South Broad Street. Westfield, MA.
• 10am-11am – PARENT SUPPORT GROUP: New parents and their infants from birth to one year are invited to a support group at the Greenwood Children’s Center.  Come share stories about the new little one in your life.  413-565-4163.  231 Maple Road.  Longmeadow, MA.
• 10am-12noon – STORYTIME: The Dalton Free Public Library offers a weekly storytime, which includes stories, short films, and crafts, all designed to help kids with social and literacy skills.  413-684-6112.  462 Main Street.  Dalton, MA.
• 10am – PLAYGROUP: Play and Learn group at the Berkshire Athenaeum every Thursday includes stories, songs, and games.  413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA.  (FREE)
• 10am – MOVEMENT: The Music and Movement program with Laurie and Tom will be at the Millers Falls Library through December.  Young children and their caregivers are invited to this fun, free program.  413-659-3801.  23 Bridge Street.  Millers Falls, MA.  (FREE)
• 10am-11am – STORYTIME: Stop by the New Salem Library every Thursday for nursery rhymes, tales, and tunes.  978-544-6334.  23 S Main Street.  New Salem, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Sponsored by the Community Health Program (CHP), Bushnell-Sage Library is hosting a Sing-A-Song playgroup for kids 0-5 and their caregivers.  Runs every Thursday.  413-229-7004.  48 Main Street.  Sheffield, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PARENT WORKSHOP: MotherWoman is returning to the Hilltowns for a monthly drop-in group for mothers of young children.  The group offers a supportive environment for mothers to discuss motherhood and all aspects of raising young children.  Takes place at the Cummington Family Center on the second Thursday of each month.  413-634-8853.  33 Main Street.  Cummington, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Palmer Monson Family Network’s drop-in playgroup runs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and is open to families with young children.  Creative play, snack time, and circle time.  413-283-6246.  4 Springfield Street.  Three Rivers, MA.  (FREE)
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Story hour: stories, songs, finger plays, crafts and more for preschool-age children; siblings welcome. Hatfield Library. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA (FREE)
• 10:30am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Join the Emily Williston Memorial Library for storytime every Thursday!  There will be snacks, stories, and crafts.  413-529-1605.  9 Park Street.  Easthampton, MA.
• 11am-11:45am – STORYTIME: Come by the Lenox Library for preschool storycraft.  Kids ages 3-5 can hear stories, sing songs, and do a related craft activity.  413-637-0197.  18 Main Street.  Lenox, MA.  (FREE)
• 3:30pm-6:30pm – FAMILY FUN: The Salasin Center will be open for family time every Thursday.  Come by for activities to do with the whole family.  413-774-4307 x4.  474 Main Street.  Greenfield, MA.

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Friday, November 15th, 2013

10am-4pm – CRAFT FAIR: Snow Farm’s Seconds Sale is happening this weekend – Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.  Come to Snow Farm for this early holiday outing, where you can find beautiful works of art at great prices made by over 150 craftspeople.  This a great place to shop for beautiful handmade holiday items.  There will be pottery, glassware, furniture, scarves, bags, jewelry, and much more.  413-268-3101.  5 Clary Road.  Williamsburg, MA.

10am-8pm – PLANT STUDIES: The Fall Chrysanthemum Show is happening at the Botanic Garden of Smith College.  The show runs every day until 10/17, and features many beautiful flowers throughout Lyman Conservatory.  This flower show is a fun trip for the whole family and is not to be missed, especially the banana plant!  413-585-2740.  College Lane.  Northampton, MA.

10:30am-12:20pm – ICE SKATING: The UMass Mullins Center offers a Home School Skate for homeschooled students in the area.  Come enjoy this fun activity while hanging out with other homeschooled kids.  Skates included with cost.  413-545-3001.  200 Commonwealth Avenue.  Amherst, MA.  >$

11am-1pm – HISTORY/ARTS AND CRAFTS: Historic Deerfield’s Art and Craft program presents a workshop on making Embroidered Linens.  Adults and older students can learn about the history and importance of linens and will get a chance to embroider their own with initials.  Included with general admission, plus a materials fee.  Register in advance by emailing arlopez@historic-deerfield.org.  413-774-5581.  84B Old Main Street. Deerfield, MA.  $+

4-9pm – TEENS/ART: The Summit… MASS MoCA and MCLA are bringing together artists, college students, museum staff and local teens for five hours of fun and brainstorming action, to talk about arts programming for young people. Berkshire teens ages 13-19 are invited to join in and brainstorm possible programs in visual and performing art and to create art themselves. Sign up in advance.  413-664-4481 ext. 8131. 49 Main Street. North Adams, MA (FREE)

7pm – MUSIC/CULTURAL STUDIES: The Five College West African Music Ensembles will perform a concert at Mt. Holyoke McCulloch Auditorium.  The Ensembles, along with Ghanaian guest performers, will play music from southern Togo, Ghana, and Benin.  There will also be a dance lesson for audience members.  The whole family can come to this exciting concert and learn about music and dance in West Africa.  413-538-2306.  Lower Lake Road.  South Hadley, MA.  (FREE)

7:30pm – PLANT STUDIES/AGRICULTURE: Did you know that maize is the largest production crop in the world?  The Botanic Garden of Smith College’s exhibition “Maize: Mysteries of an Ancient Grain” is all about maize, its history, and its significance.  As part of this exhibition, USDA Agricultural Research Service Geneticist Edward S. Buckler will present a lecture on this amazing and versatile crop.  Buckler will discuss the fascinating genetics and evolution of corn, as well as the crop’s importance to food security throughout the world.  This lecture would be of interest to older students interested in agriculture, biology, plants, genetics, and other realms of science.  Takes place in McConnell Hall Room 103.  413-585-2740.  44 College Lane.  Northampton, MA.

Friday, November 15th at 7:30pm – THEATER/SHAKESPEARE: Taconic Theatre kicks off the Fall Festival of Shakespeare with a production of King Lear at the Taconic High School auditorium.  This Shakespearean tragedy would be best for students interested in theater or Shakespeare.  413-448-9634.  96 Valentine Road.  Pittsfield, MA.  $

8pm – THEATER: The Bay Path College Performing Art Department presents a production of Into the Woods, a musical about a baker and his wife, who try to change lift a family curse by journeying into the woods.  Here they find Rapunzel, Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, and other fairytale characters.  This fun musical will entertain family members of all ages.  Tickets can be purchased in advance.  413-565-1307.  588 Longmeadow Street.  Longmeadow, MA.  $

8pm – ASTRONOMY: The Milham Planetarium at Williams College will be open to the public for a planetarium show this evening.  You can learn about the motions of the planets, the phases of the moon, comets, and much more! Reservations recommended. 413-597-2188.  829 Main Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)

ONGOING FOR FRIDAYS (The season is changing and we are updating our list with ongoing summer activities! To add your ongoing event/activity here, email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com)

• 9am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Amherst Family Center has drop-in playgroup every Monday, including snacks, circle time, activities, and more.  413-256-1145.  1200 North Pleasant Street.  North Amherst, MA
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Stop by the Cummington Family Center for playgroup for kids 5 and under!  There will be stories, arts and crafts, songs, and playtime.  Takes place at Community House.  Main Street.  Cummington, MA.
• 9am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly playgroup at Shutesbury Elementary School for kids 5 and under.  Sponsored by Community Network for Children.  978-544-5157.  23 West Pelham Road.  Shutesbury, MA.
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Play and Learn group for young kids at Sunderland Elementary.  1 Swampfield Drive.  Sunderland, MA.
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Kids ages 0-5 and their caregivers can stop by Whole Children for playgroup, featuring snacks and playtime.  37 Russell Street.  Hadley, MA.
• 10am – PLAYGROUP: Come watch preschool videos at the Berkshire Athenaeum every Friday!  413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA.  (FREE)
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Palmer Monson Family Network’s drop-in playgroup runs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and is open to families with young children.  Creative play, snack time, and circle time.  413-283-6246.  4 Springfield Street.  Three Rivers, MA.  (FREE)
• 10am – STORYTIME: Preschool-aged kids can come to the Stockbridge Library for StoryCraft, a storytime and craft time with Miss Vicky!  Siblings are welcome.  413-298-5501.  46 Main Street.  Stockbridge, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly playgroup at Sunderland Elementary School for kids 5 and under.  Every Tuesday and Friday.  Old Amherst Road.  Sunderland, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – HIKING: Kids 8 and under and their parents or guardians are invited to Mt. Greylock for a “tyke hike.”  Kids can learn about and experience nature and then hear a story.  413-499-4262.  30 Rockwell Road.  Lanesborough, MA.
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Playgroup at the Gateway Family Center every Wednesday and Friday.  413-667-2203.  9 Russell Road.  Huntington, MA.
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Easthampton Family Center is open every Monday, Tuesday, and Friday from 10am-12noon.  413-527-5496.  43 Main Street.  Easthampton, MA.
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Weekly “Skip and Dip” playgroup at Berkshire South RCC.  413-464-5095.  15 Crissey Road.  Great Barrington, MA.  (FREE)
• 10:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Stop by the Chesterfield Community Center on the first and third Friday of each month for playgroup.  Storytime, games, and arts and crafts are featured.  For kids 8 and under.  Chesterfield, MA.
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Storytime for little ones at the Pelham Library! 413-253-0657. 2 South Valley Road. Pelham, MA. (FREE)
• 10:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly fitWIC playgroup at CHP Family Services Building.  413-464-5095.  442 Stockbridge Road.  Great Barrington, MA.  (FREE)
• 11am – STORYTIME: Weekly storytime for preschoolers at the Sunderland Public Library.  Features stories, songs, and crafts.  413-665-2642.  20 School Street.  Sunderland, MA.
• 11am-11:30am – STORYTIME: The Berkshire Museum’s weekly Museum Adventures program features stories, songs, dancing, play time, scavenger hunts, and more, and is open to kids 18 months to 3 years.  It’s a great way for young kids to explore some of what the museum has to offer!  Free with museum admission.  413-443-7171.  39 South Street.  Pittsfield, MA.  $
• 11am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Play and Learn Group at Lanesborough Town Hall, featuring educational playthings, snack, art project, and circle time.  For kids walking-age to five years.  413-663-6593.  83 N Main Street.  Lanesborough, MA.
• 1pm-4pm – HIKING: Learn the basics of hiking, reading maps, trail safety, bear etiquette, and more at Mt. Greylock’s “hiking 101” program.  The program is open to all ages and teaches important information for those interested in hiking but who may want to know more before setting out on an adventure.  413-499-4262.  30 Rockwell Road.  Lanesborough, MA.
• 2:15pm-4pm – LEGOS: The Dickinson Memorial Library’s LEGO Club meets the second Friday of each month.  Come make friends and build with LEGOs.  Best for kids in grade 3 and up.  413-498-2455.  115 Main Street.  Northfield, MA.

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