Hilltown Families 
Suggested Events for November 30th-December 6th, 2013
Discover fun and educational events happening this week in western Massachusetts, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
“Hilltown Families is the place to check when you have family visiting and you need to schedule a weekends worth of entertainment!” Tony Lemos (Ashfield, MA)
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.
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BULLETIN BOARD
Dec 1
Community Chanukah Celebration at Congregation B’Nai Israel in Northampton, MA on Sunday, December 1st. Party from 4-6pm and movie screening from 6:15-8pm. All are welcome to CBI’s family friendly, Chanukah celebration which will include a live band and dancing, menorah lighting, homemade latkes and treats, and beer for the adults. The party will be followed by a family friendly movie around 6:15. Please bring your own menorah if you have one! For more information contact rabbijacob@cbinorthampton.org or visit www.facebook.com/events/671743382859860.
Open House Dec 2
Gan Keshet Jewish Community Preschool: Open House on Monday, December 2 from 9:30-11:30am (Snow date, Mon., Dec 16), 253 Prospect Street, Northampton. Come visit their preschool classroom & meet their experienced staff. Gan Keshet is a play-based, discovery-oriented preschool that offers: Part/Full Day Options until 5:15, gardening and summer program. They are accepting applications for the 2014-15 school year. Ask about the HGF Right Start Grant- your family could be eligible to receive $500-1000 towards your child’s tuition! The Preschool values diversity and welcomes all families in the community. Contact their Director, Wendy Stein, at 413-584-3593 x204 for additional details. cbinorthampton.org/education-2/preschool/general-information
Dec 5
Come to the Odyssey Bookshop on Thursday, December 5th at 4pm to meet someone very special. The Grinch himself will read aloud from How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Enjoy free giveaways, stickers, snacks and more! There will even be a photo opportunity with the Grinch himself— so parents, don’t forget to bring your cameras! Odyssey Bookshop, 9 College Street, South Hadley, MA. www.odysseybks.com 413-534-7307
Dec 6-8
The LEGO® KidsFest is a giant traveling LEGO expo coming to Hartford, CT at the Connecticut Convention Center from December 6-8. This hands-on, educational, all-ages LEGO extravaganza features millions of LEGO bricks, not to mention lots of construction zones, dozens of life-sized LEGO models and displays, LEGO Friends and LEGO Games, group builds such as Creation Nation, live LEGO Master Builders, and so much more covering three acres of space. There are five identical sessions available. Tickets are $18 for kids and $20 for adults. For more information and to purchase tickets, log on to www.LEGOKidsFest.com.
Open House Dec 7
Crafty Rumpus and Yggdrasil: (Center School’s Open House that is Open to Everyone) is Sat. Dec. 7, from 10am-2pm. Pre-K through 8th grade teachers will offer free creative art and crafting projects for kids ages 3-12. And, new, this year 8 is Yggdrasil: an interactive, enchanted indoor forest. Yggdrasil is a tree in Norse mythology that welcomes us into 9 magical realms. Free Yggdrasil realms will feature archery with Amherst Archery Association, a labyrinth, fairy house building, toadstool necklaces, a cave to discover one’s own power animal and more!In addition: savory and sweet foods available for purchase, Come, to Rumpus and Yggdrasil, meet the teachers and families of The Center School. All are welcome! centerschoolrumpus.blogspot.com
Dec 7
Winter Fair at the Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School at the Brassworks on Rt. 9 in Williamsburg on Saturday, Dec 7, 10am-3pm. The Winter Fair at HCCPS is a wonderful day of craft-making, music, books & food. Come with your children to create personal holiday gifts for family members, enjoy performances all day and get a great home-made lunch. Browse the Scholastic Book Fair too, for well-priced books from classics to comics. At the Fair you can create a wreath, make a felt mask or a set of coasters. You can dip pretzels in chocolate or decorate gingerbread people. How about making a rubber-band bracelet or a treasure box, or a set of “bath bombs” or festive fire-starters? There is something for everyone at the Hilltown Winter Fair!
Dec 30
FMC Ice Sports offers a fun and unique learning environment for all ages. Participants in our Step 1 Learn to Skate programs are taught the basics of ice skating without relying on skating aids. This method of teaching increases a skater’s independence on the ice and encourages their learning of balance and maneuverability. Students eventually graduate to our Step 2 and Step 3 programs that focus on the more sport specific skills required in hockey and figure skating. FMC Ice Sports programs can be found at the Smead Arena in Springfield and the Collins Moylan Arena in Greenfield. Class information and registration are available online at www.fmcicesports.com or by calling 1-888-74-SKATE.
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.
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HILLTOWN FAMILIES EVENTS
This holiday season, Hilltown Families is hosting a Virtual Holiday Food Drive in support of food security in our region! Every $1 donated through the Hilltown Families Virtual Holiday Food Drive equals $13 worth of food distributed to families in need (the equivalent of nearly 10 meals!). Please take a moment to participate in the Hilltown Families Virtual Holiday Food Drive, and consider organizing a food drive in your community too.
Dec 7
On Saturday, December 7th, from 9:30-11am, Hilltown Families is sponsoring a free Board Game Swap in the community room at the Meekins Library in Williamsburg, MA. A fun way to recycle old board games and to discover new ones. Board games make excellent holiday gifts for friends and family too. Surprise them with a new recycled game. This community swap is free and open to everyone.
Dec 13
A Serving of Art: A Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Night: Engaging your family in community service teaches kids positive values while opening up channels of communication between parent and child, and can increase their participation as future volunteers in their community! Join us for an evening of community service on Friday, December 13th from 4-7pm in Shelburne Falls at The Art Garden, for A Serving of Art: Placemat Making, the first in a series of five free family community service nights!
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
November 30th-December 6th, 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 30th, 2013
It’s Small Business Saturday! Shop local from your neighbors and friends, investing in your community while supporting local business owners!
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. – We will rebroadcast our Heart of Chanukah Episode with Guest DJ, Doni Zasloff Thomas (Mama Doni) – 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.
9am – SANTA: Don’t miss Yankee Candle’s holiday celebration for kids of all ages! Santa’s elves will entertain and then Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive by helicopter at Yankee Candle Village (10am)! There will also be souvenir reindeer antlers, hot chocolate and cookies, carolers, balloon making, pictures with Santa, deals at the Yankee Candle store, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and more! The event is free but some activities may have fees. More information available here. 877-636-7707. 25 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA. (FREE)
9:30am – HOLIDAY PARADE: The Florence Holiday Parade steps off at Trinity Row and marches down towards the Civic Center! Bring family and friends and come usher in the holidays with this fun parade. Meet Santa and enjoy a festive morning. Downtown. Florence, MA.
10am-4pm – HISTORY/HOLIDAY STROLL: Westfield’s Dickens Days kicks off with their Village Stroll! Musicians and performers will be around town to make this Victorian shopping celebration extra special. The first Saturday after Thanksgiving is also Small Business Saturday, and those who wish to participate and shop at local stores can pick up a Westfield BID shopping bag at the Downtown Art Gallery (105 Elm Street; 10am-3pm) for special deals and discounts! Don’t miss this opportunity to see Westfield transformed into a Victorian village while supporting local shops and restaurants. 413-562-2277. Downtown. Westfield, MA.
10am-4pm – CULINARY ARTS/LOCAL HISTORY: Discover New Englanders of the past cooked their Thanksgiving meals at Historic Deerfield’s Open Hearth Cooking Demonstration! Cooks will prepare traditional Thanksgiving dishes using hearth cooking methods and will discuss the history of harvest celebrations and the evolution of the Thanksgiving holiday in America. Free with museum admission. 413-774-5581. 84B Old Main Street. Deerfield, MA. $
10am-4pm – HISTORY: The Society of the 17th Century is a group of reenactors that will demonstrate period arts, crafts, and trades and Historic Deerfield. Visitors can see redware pottery, spinning, wood carving, quill pen writing, basket making, and much more. There may be some opportunities for hands-on activities. Those interested in colonial history would enjoy these demonstrations, which show how New Englanders of the 17th century created useful handmade goods. Free with museum admission. 413-774-5581. 84B Old Main Street. Deerfield, MA. $
11am-12noon – SING-A-LONG: The Lee Library is hosting “Sing-a-long with Old McJOHNald,” an event for families. Reverend John McKinstry will play traditional folk songs, nursery rhymes, and lullabies on guitar and mountain dulcimer. Celebrate music and singing with your family and community at this free event. 413-243-0385. 100 Main Street. Lee, MA. (FREE)
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)
11am-3pm – HISTORY/HOLIDAYS: Celebrate the holidays at The Mount on 11/30, 12/7, and 12/14 at their “Backstairs” tours. These tours, inspired by PBS’ Downton Abbey, will highlight the roles, relationships, living conditions, and working expectations of the 20 servants who staffed the house and property each summer. Tours will be given at 12noon and 2pm. Those who are interested in history and want to know more about class dynamics in the late 1800s and early 1900s will enjoy these tours. 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. $
1pm – PUPPETS: The East Forest Park Branch Library is holding a puppet fiesta! Caravan Puppets presents Professor Diggins’ Jurassic Journey, an action-packed performance full of dinosaur facts and catchy songs. Kids will love this exciting and educational puppet show! 413-263-6836. 122 Island Pond Road. Springfield, MA.
1pm, 2pm & 3pm: ORNITHOLOGY/BIRDS OF PREY: Wildlife rehabilitator Tom Ricardi will be at Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory with three birds of prey shows. See raptors up close, learn about their adaptations and the importance of local habitat preservation for their survival! This exciting live show will be great for the whole family and will give kids a chance to get up close to these incredible birds. 413-665-2805. South Deerfield, MA (FREE w/admission)
2pm & 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 – CHORAL MUSIC: The Berkshire Bach Players are holding a Handel’s Messiah Sing-In at the First Congregational Church in Great Barrington. All are welcome to come usher in the holidays and sign in this informal chorus. You are welcome to bring your own score or borrow one at the Church. This event would be best for older students interested in classical music. 413-528-9277. 251 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.
4pm – FILM/MUSICAL: The longstanding Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center tradition of screening The Wizard of Oz on Thanksgiving is on hiatus this year because Warner Brothers is canceling distribution in anticipation of the film’s upcoming 75th anniversary. In its place, the Mahaiwe will screen a 35mm film print of Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen’s classic musical, Singin’ in the Rain (1952, rated G), starring Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, and Donald O’Connor. 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA. $
5pm-11pm – HOLIDAY LIGHTS: Bright Nights at Forest Park returns this season for holiday fun! Bring the whole family to come see the beautiful holiday light display. More information and a schedule available here. Runs through the New Year. Sumner Avenue. Springfield, MA. $$
5:30pm – PARADE/TREE LIGHTING: Westfield’s Dickens Days Lanternlight Parade and Tree Lighting take place in Downtown Westfield! The festive parade features music, community groups, giant puppets, Dickens Days spirits, Santa Claus, and more. Follow the parade down Elm Street to Park Square, where the mayor will light the city’s 20-foot tree. The Youth Chorale of the Full Gospel Church of Westfield will also perform at this event. Families are welcome to create their own puppets at the South Middle School cafeteria (West Silver Street) from 11am-1pm, and then show their puppets off in the parade! Celebrate the holidays and engage with your community on this special day. 413-562-2277. Elm Street. Westfield, MA.
7pm – HOLIDAY CONCERT: Celebrate Christmas early at the Colonial Theater! Berkshire Theater Group presents Mary Verdi, a local singer-songwriter who annually performs for the holidays in the Berkshires. The show will feature a children’s and bell choir plus a full band for families to sing-along with to old holiday favorites Families will love this special night of nostalgia and holiday music! Best for kids with audience skills. 413-997-4444. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. ($$)
PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
4pm-7pm – THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION/HISTORY: The Bidwell House Museum presents “Our Colonial Holiday of Thanksgiving,” a fundraising party including hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, live music, and a silent auction. Community members can come together to celebrate the harvest in Reverend Bidwell’s historic home from the 1750s. Reservations are required. 413-528-6888. 100 Art School Road. Monterey, MA. $$$
4pm – SHAKER SUPPER: Make date night extra special and attend a Shaker Supper at Hancock Shaker Village! Before dinner, there will be a guided tour led by costumed interpreters, a cider and cheese reception, dinner by candlelight, and Shaker music. This event allows you to experience a traditional Shaker supper and get an introduction to Shaker life in Western Massachusetts. Reservations are required. 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$$
Sunday, December 1st, 2013
Download a Kindness Calendar for the month
9am – HANUKKAH/COMMUNITY MEAL: B’Nai Torah is holding their annual Katz Family Chanukah Breakfast today! There will be food, entertainment, and a kids vs. adults sufganiyah catapult contest. Spend time with family and friends at this fun community meal. 413-567-0036. 2 Eunice Drive. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)
9am-3pm – CRAFT FAIR: The annual craft fair at Westfield Vocational Technical High School is today! Come find handmade items for the holidays while supporting WVTHS. Proceeds go toward scholarships and items for WVTHS. 413-562-2277. 33 Smith Avenue. Westfield, MA.
10am-12noon – CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION: Sláinte is holding a “Cookies and Milk with Santa” event for kids! There will be face painting, balloon sculptures, letters to Santa, Christmas carols, and an opportunity for kids to meet Santa himself. Kids will love this fun Christmas celebration! Please bring one unwrapped gift for the Rotary for Children’s Toy Drive. 413-534-4000. 80 Jarvis Avenue. Holyoke, MA. >$
1pm – CHILDREN’S BOOKS: Author Patricia MacLachlan and illustrator Steven Kellogg will be at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art to discuss their collaboration on Snowflakes Fall, a children’s book on life’s natural cycle, written as a tribute and message of hope after the tragic events at Sandy Hook last December. Museum visitors can get a sneak peek at what the author and illustrator’s processes were, as well as how the collaboration worked. The talk is followed by a book signing. Free with museum admission. Tickets are first come, first serve. 413-658-1100. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. $
1pm-3:30pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Today is the annual Holiday Open House at the Keep Homestead Museum. The historic home will be decorated for the holidays and there will be refreshments and a holiday sing-a-long. Tour the house and see historic artifacts like furniture, glass, silver, the family’s various collections (rocks, buttons, shells, etc.), and more. This is a great way to discover local history and take a step back in time. 413-267-4137. 35 Ely Road. Monson, MA.
4pm-5pm – STORYTIME/HOLIDAYS: There will be a special storytime at the Erving Public Library today titled “Holidays Around the World.” Come learn about many of the different holidays that take place throughout the world! 978-544-5157. 17 Moore Street. Erving, MA.
4pm-8pm – HANUKKAH: Congregation B’nai Israel is hosting “A Really Great Chanukah Party!” This family-friendly event features a live band, dancing, menorah lighting, homemade latkes and treats, and beer for grown-ups. There will also be a movie screening. 413-584-3593. 253 Prospect Street. Northampton, MA. SUGGESTED DONATION >$
5pm-9pm – HOLIDAY LIGHTS: Bright Nights at Forest Park returns this season for holiday fun! Bring the whole family to come see the beautiful holiday light display. More information and a schedule available here. Runs through the New Year. Sumner Avenue. Springfield, MA. $$
11am-2pm – HANUKKAH: Celebrate Chanukah at Lubavitcher Yeshiva Academy’s Chanukah Wonderland! You can get your face painted, meet Judah Maccabee, do crafts, play games, see a magic show, and make your own doughnuts. Join together with family and your community at this fun Chanukah event. Lunch is available for purchase at the event. 413-567-8665. 1148 Converse Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)
2pm – HOLIDAY CONCERT: Celebrate Christmas early at the Colonial Theater! Berkshire Theater Group presents Mary Verdi, a local singer-songwriter who annually performs for the holidays in the Berkshires. The show will feature a children’s and bell choir plus a full band for families to sing-along with to old holiday favorites Families will love this special afternoon of nostalgia and holiday music! Best for kids with audience skills. 413-997-4444. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. ($$)
6pm – TREE LIGHTING: Santa will arrive by fire engine to help with Lenox Dale’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Veterans Memorial Park tonight! Kids will have a chance to meet Santa and pose for photos at the Fire Station (Elm Street), where gifts and refreshments will be distributed. This fun community holiday event is sponsored by the Lenox Dale Fire Company. 413-637-5542. Walker Street & Crystal Street. Lenox Dale, MA.
Monday, December 2nd, 2013
Gan Keshet Jewish Community Preschool: Open House on Monday, December 2 from 9:30-11:30am in Northampton, MA.
1:10pm – HANUKKAH: Help light the largest menorah in Springfield with Lubavitcher Yeshiva Academy in Court Square at this community Hanukkah celebration! There will also be Hanukkah songs, latkes, and hot cocoa. 413-567-8665. Downtown. Springfield, MA.
2pm – HANUKKAH: The West Springfield Park and Recreation Department presents the annual Chanukah Celebration today in the Majestic Theater Lobby Cafe. Celebrate Hanukkah with community members at this special event. 413-263-3284. Elm Street. West Springfield, MA.
6pm-7pm – HISTORY/CULINARY ARTS: Join the Wistariahurst Museum as they continue their fall lecture series, “Historical Culinary Incidents: An Exploration of Food and Culture in the Pioneer Valley.” This week, Barbara B. Blumenthal presents “Culinary Curiosities at Smith College.” Blumenthal will talk about the many cookbooks, housekeeping and etiquette manuals, books with culinary themes, and food-related oddities in Smith College’s Mortimer Rare Book Room and in her own collection. The books and manuscripts offer fascinating looks at the history of food from the 16th-20th centuries and this lecture gives community members an opportunity to learn about these resources. 413-322-5660. 238 Cabot Street. Holyoke, MA. $
6:30pm – HANUKKAH/SCIENCE: Lubavitcher Yeshiva Academy invites you to the Electric Chanukah Dinner and Show. Families can come for dinner, a menorah lighting, a performance by the LYA Choir, and Fun with Energy with Jeff Boyer (6:30pm). Boyer will demonstrate to kids the wonders of energy and how it makes our world work through activities and interactive demonstrations. Please RSVP ASAP. 413-567-8665. 1148 Converse Street. Longmeadow, MA. $
ONGOING FOR MONDAYS (Always double check events before heading out. To add your ongoing event/activity here, email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com)
- 9-10am – PLAYGROUP: Collaborative’s Early Childhood Department hosts a drop-in playgroup for children birth-5 with their parents/caregivers through June at First Congregational Church of Hatfield. 413-586-4998 x102. 41 Main St. Hatfield, 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
- 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: CHP Family Network offers a “gym fun” playgroup at West Stockbridge Town Hall. 413-464-5095. 21 State Line Road. West Stockbridge, 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)
- 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Stop by Otis Town Hall for playgroup every Monday! 413-464-5095. 1 North Main Road. Otis, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Play and Learn Group at the Williamstown Youth Center for kids walking-age up to age five. Includes puzzles, play dough, riding toys, balls, books, and more. 413-663-6593. 66 School Street. Williamstown, 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: Storytime for babies 2 and under and their parents at the East Longmeadow Library. 413-525-5400 x1506. 60 Center Square. East Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am – MOVEMENT: “Music for Little Ones” at the Pelham Library features a half hour of music and movement for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. 413-253-0657. 2 South Valley Road. Pelham, MA. (FREE)
- 3:15pm-4:15pm – CHESS: Kids in grade 2 and up are invited to the Storrs Library for their weekly drop-in chess program. Come play with other kids and improve your chess skills! 413-565-4182. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)
Tuesday, December 3rd, 2013
5:30pm-7:45pm – ARTS & CRAFTS/HOLIDAYS: Are you interested in being crafty this holiday season? Come to the Springfield Library’s Sixteen Acres Branch for “Adventures in Upcycling: Make Your Own Gift Bags and Wrapping Paper!” You can create gift bags from recycled newspaper and cardboard and design and make your own wrapping paper. Materials and instruction provided. Best for adults and older teens. Registration is required. 413-263-6858. 1187 Parker Street. Springfield, MA.
6:30pm – HISTORY: Jennifer Pustz, museum historian and author of Voices From the Back Stairs, comes to the Dickinson Memorial Library for an illustrated lecture on the lives of servants in historic homes. Pustz’s lecture tells of the diversity of domestic service in New England using period domestic manuals and ephemera. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA.
7pm-8:30pm – HISTORY: Historian Stephen R. Platt will discuss his book, Autumn in the Heavenly Kingdom: China, the West, and the Epic Story of the Taiping Civil War at the Jones Library tonight. China’s 19th-century Taiping Rebellion, which is one of the largest civil wars in history, was responsible for over 20 million deaths from 1850-1864, as a result of both warfare and subsequent famine and pestilence. This event is an amazing opportunity to learn about the Rebellion and how it might have changed China’s fate in the modern world. Older students interested in history would benefit from this lecture. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
6:30pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: The Jewish Learning Institute of Greater Springfield is holding an Adult Chanukah Dinner featuring a performance by stand-up comedian Reuven Russell. Celebrate Hanukkah, enjoy live comedy, and spend time with friends and community members at this special event. Please RSVP. 413-348-4978. 1148 Converse Street. Longmeadow, MA. $$$
ONGOING FOR TUESDAYS (Always double check events before heading out. 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 – 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.
- 7pm-8:15pm – BOOK CLUB: The Jones Library’s diversity book club meets the second Tuesday of each month, and focuses on fiction and non-fiction books that explore various aspects of human diversity, including race, religion, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical and mental ability, appearance, educational and social background, and other topics. This group is meant for adults, but mature, self-directed teens would benefit from the book club. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity Street. Amherst, MA.
Wednesday, December 4th, 2013
1:30-5:30pm – COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT/SUSTAINABILITY: You are a change maker in your own home, fostering “member participation” each day before school and after dinner. Learn these valuable skills out in the community with PV Sustain’s newest workshop, “Change Makers: Hone Your Skills.” Whether you’re a municipal, non-profit or cooperative leader interested in fostering civic and member participation or just a citizen interested in being more effective as an advocate for change, learn how you can mobilize a group. Professor Joseph Krupczynski from UMass Center for Design will give a keynote on “Engagement” followed by breakout sessions and strategic planning with experienced people in the field. 60 Congress St., Springfield, MA. (FREE)
5:30pm-7:30pm – STAR WARS: The Springfield City Library’s East Springfield Branch is holding a Star Wars Celebration! There will be stories, snacks, reenactments, crafts, and you can even come in costume! Please sign up in advance. 413-263-6840. 21 Osborne Terrace. Springfield, MA.
6pm – HANUKKAH: Celebrate Hanukkah in the Westfield Athenaeum Courtyard (Court Street) with the mayor as he lights the menorah, and then attend a community Hanukkah party at the Amelia Park Children’s Museum (29 South Broad Street)! This is a fun way to celebrate Hanukkah with family and community members. 413-562-2277. Westfield, MA.
7pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: “The ABCs of Navigation for Caregivers” 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 who feel stressed trying to manage the competing demands of caregiving, family, and work responsibilities. Dean will provide information about resources and services, help caregivers recognize the importance of their own mental health and happiness, and provide strategies to help improve the quality of life for the caregiver and care recipient. Pre-registration is required for this workshop. 413-499-9480 x202. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA.
7pm-8:30pm – LOCAL HISTORY/PHOTOGRAPHY: Since the days of the daguerreotype in the 1850s, photographers have been photographing Northampton and its residents. Many of these photographs are housed at Historic Northampton and the Forbes Library and will be featured in the new book, Hampshire County Memories: The Early Years. Photographer Stan Sherer, along with Faith Kaufmann and Dylan Gaffney of Forbes’ Library Information Services, will present samples from the collections at Historic Northampton and the Forbes Library and discuss important moments in Northampton throughout history at Forbes Library tonight. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA.
ONGOING FOR WEDNESDAYS (Always double check events before heading out. 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-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.
- 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.
- 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. $
Thursday, December 5th, 2013
8:30am-12:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: The human brain is complicated, and it can be difficult to understand how sleep, food, alcohol, and other things affect it. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Substance Abuse Services is leading a certification workshop on Teen Brain Development. The workshop will “explain how the interaction between biological and environmental factors impacts brain circuitry and human behavior.” This workshop is a half-day training event that includes a one-woman performance on the developing brain, breakout sessions, and more. It is perfect for parents, caregivers, teachers, counselors, psychologists, nurses, pediatricians, and anyone who works with youth. More information on the workshop and certification is available here. Takes place at Greenfield Community College’s Sloan Theater. Registration is required. 413-775-1000. 1 College Drive. Greenfield, MA.
5:30pm-7:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Child Care of the Berkshires, Inc. is holding a Parent Café at the Haskins Community Center for parents to come talk with other parents about the joys and challenges of parenting and to learn from one another! Come enjoy a free catered meal and talk with other parents. There is free childcare and transportation. Please call to RSVP by 12/2. 413-663-7588. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
5:45pm – CHRISTMAS CAROLS: The West Springfield Park and Recreation Department presents the 26th Annual Caroling on the Green event in the Elm Street Gazebo. Community members are welcome to attend and sing along! 413-263-3284. Elm Street. West Springfield, MA.
6pm – CHILDREN’S BOOKS: Come meet local author R.W. Thompson and celebrate his new book, The Crystal Butterfly, at the Westfield Athenaeum. Kids of all ages can come meet Thompson and hear all about his latest book. Registration is required. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA.
7pm: FOOD SECURITY/FILM – Screening of “GMO OMG.” As a parent, we all wonder and worry that our children are eating well and getting the correct nutrients. Director and concerned father Jeremy Seifert set out to discover the story behind the current food system, the health of the planet and answer the ever-pressing question: what’s on your plate? Sponsored by GMO Free Massachusetts at Christ’s Community Church. 103 Springfield St., Chicopee MA. (>$)
7pm-8:30pm – CULTURAL STUDIES: Local author Devin Griffiths will be at the Jones Library tonight to discuss his first book, Virtual Ascendance: Video Games and the Remaking of Reality. Griffiths’ book examines the cultural influence of video games and the video game industry in order to illustrate the ways games and gaming impact society and change how we work, play, and live. Video games are a controversial topic right now, and this talk would interest anyone who wants to know more about the video game industry and its effects on society. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
7pm-8:30pm – IMPROV COMEDY: Northampton High School’s two talented and hilarious improv troupes are performing tonight at the Black Box Theater. This family-friendly show is sure to be funny and entertaining, and is a great chance to introduce young audience members to improv! 380 Elm Street. Northampton, MA. >$
7:30pm-9pm – CONCERT: The Westfield State University Department of Music presents the Big Band at Dever Stage (Parenzo Hall, WSU). This exciting jazz concert will entertain community members of all ages! 413-562-2277. 577 Western Avenue. Westfield, MA.
PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
6:30pm-9:30pm – HOLIDAY BASH: Easthampton City Arts+ is holding a “Black and White Light Up the Arts Holiday Bash” tonight at the Old Town Hall. The evening includes a silent auction, a small works show, food by Apollo Grill, an announcement of the Pioneer Valley Buzz and Outstanding ECA+ Volunteer Awards, and more. More information available here. 413-527-8278. 43 Main Street. Easthampton, 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-11:30am – ROLLERSKATING: Kids age 6 and under can come to Interskate 91 North for skating, roller racers, games, music, and more! Admission for kids includes snack and skate rental. More info here. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street. Hadley, 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 – 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.
Friday, December 6th, 2013
8:30am-12noon – PARENT WORKSHOP: The human brain is complicated, and it can be difficult to understand how sleep, food, alcohol, and other things affect it. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Substance Abuse Services is leading a certification workshop on Teen Brain Development. The workshop will “explain how the interaction between biological and environmental factors impacts brain circuitry and human behavior.” This workshop is a half-day training event that includes a one-woman performance on the developing brain, breakout sessions, and more. It is perfect for parents, caregivers, teachers, counselors, psychologists, nurses, pediatricians, and anyone who works with youth. More information on the workshop and certification is available here. Takes place at Northampton Senior Center. Registration is required. 413-586-4998 x114. 67 Conz Street. 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. >$
12noon-5pm – OPEN STUDIOS: Shop for local, handmade gifts and explore artists’ studios at Cottage Street Studios’ annual Open Studio and Holiday Sale! Participating artists will open their studio doors to the public, who can take a peek inside the studios of these professional artists while looking at handmade gifts for the holidays. This unique opportunity is not to be missed! 413-658-8406. 1 Cottage Street. Easthampton, MA.
12:15pm – LOCAL HISTORY: The Amherst Historical Society hosts History Bites, a lunchtime history talk! This week’s talk, “The Klondike Gold Rush – A Gold Seeker from Chicopee Goes to the Klondike in 1898 (and Back),” is presented by Bob Romer. Tea and coffee provided. Takes place at Simeon Strong House. Best for older students, self-directed teens, and adults. 413-256-0678. 67 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
4pm-9pm – CHRISTMAS/HISTORY: Take a step back in time this holiday season at Sturbridge Village, where you can celebrate “Christmas by Candlelight.” This exciting event happens every weekend leading up to Christmas, and features sleigh rides, a recreation of Mrs. Cratchit’s Christmas dinner, a gingerbread house contest, Christmas traditions, carolers, Father Christmas, Santa Claus, a puppet show, music, dancing, and much more. This event allows visitors to experience the Christmas holiday as it was in the past in colonial New England. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. $$$
4:15-6:30pm – TREE LIGHTING: Kick off the holiday season with the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce as they light the Merry Maple tonight! There will be hayrides, crafts, a performance by the Amherst Regional Middle School Chorus, the Minuteman Marching Band parade, an appearance by Santa Claus, cider doughnuts, and more. This is an exciting annual event and a great way to spend time with family and friends of all ages! 413-253-0700. Downtown. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
5pm – HISTORY: Hear seasonal stories and poems read by volunteers in period costume at the Stockbridge Library. This fun and educational reading will help get you in the holiday spirit! Stories include The Night Before Christmas, Yes Virginia There Is a Santa Claus, as well as pieces by Pearl Buck, Robert Frost, and others. In addition to these stories and poems, thank you notes from local soldiers (thanking the town for Christmas presents) during WWII will be read. 413-298-5501. 46 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA. (FREE)
5pm-8pm – TOY EXCHANGE: The Northampton Department of Public Works is holding their Third Annual Holiday Toy Exchange on 12/6 from 5pm-8pm and 12/7 from 8am-9am, with pickup for the general public on 12/7 from 10am-12noon. The DPW is accepting donations of clean, gently used sports equipment, musical instruments, action figures/dolls, books, games, puzzles, stuffed animals, and MUCH more! Most children’s toys and activities are accepted, as well as clean and gently used outerwear. Takes place at the Northampton Senior Center. 67 Conz Street. Northampton, MA.
5pm-11pm – HOLIDAY LIGHTS: Bright Nights at Forest Park returns this season for holiday fun! Bring the whole family to come see the beautiful holiday light display. More information and a schedule available here. Runs though the New Year. Sumner Avenue. Springfield, MA. $$
5:30pm – TREE LIGHTING: Pittsfield’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is tonight at Park Square! There will be performances by the Berkshire Hills Chorus and the Taconic High School Chorus before and after the ceremony, an appearance by Mr. and Mrs. Clause, free hot chocolate, and more. Please bring non-perishable food to donate to the Christian Center’s food pantry. Downtown. Pittsfield, MA.
6pm – TREE LIGHTING: Tonight the town of Lenox will light their Christmas tree in Lilac Park! Come with friends and family to celebrate the holidays and meet with Santa! Lenox, MA.
6:30pm-8:30pm – HOLIDAY CELEBRATION: The Westfield YMCA is holding their annual Frosty Festival with Mr. and Mrs. Clause tonight! Families can come dressed in ugly sweaters for swimming, a kids’ carnival, crafts, a bake sale, and much more! This is a great event for the whole family to attend together to get into the holiday spirit. 413-568-8631. 67 Court Street. Westfield, MA. >$
7pm-9pm – THEATER: Over 65 students from Undermountain Elementary School will perform Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory tonight at the Thomas A. Consolati Performing Arts Center. This well-loved play is good for all ages. 491 Berkshire School Road. Sheffield, MA.
7:30pm – THEATER: The Drama Studio is putting on a production of Pinocchio at CityStage’s Blake Theatre. This classic tale tells the story of a woodcarver who, longing for a son, carves one out of wood and names him Pinocchio. The play teaches important lessons on honesty, empathy, and generosity as Pinocchio yearns to be a real boy. This classic play will delight theater-goers of all ages. 413-739-1983. One Columbus Center. Springfield, MA. $$
7:30pm – ASTRONOMY: Join the Springfield Museums for “Stars Over Springfield,” an introductory astronomy talk and star viewing at the Science Museum’s observatory. This week, astronomy educator Paul Cardone will present a talk titled, “What’s New in Our Solar System?” The event is recommended for kids 8 and up, but younger children are welcome. If it is cloudy or rainy, a planetarium show will be presented in place of the live star viewing. 800-625-7738. 21 Edwards Street. Springfield, MA. >$
8pm – ASTRONOMY: The Milham Planetarium at Williams College will be open to the public for a planetarium show this evening. You can learn about the motions of the planets, the phases of the moon, comets, and much more! Reservations recommended. 413-597-2188. 829 Main Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
5:30pm-8:30pm – DROP N’ SHOP: The Northampton Recreation Department is holding a “Drop N’ Shop” event – parents, you can drop your kids (grades K-5) off at JFK Middle School tonight for pizza, supervised swimming, arts and crafts, games and more, while you go out to dinner or try to get in some holiday shopping! Cost is $15 per child and registration is required. 413-587-1040. 100 Bridge Road. Florence, MA. $
8pm – CELTIC MUSIC: The Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute presents a special holiday concert with Solas, an Irish-American band known for their high-energy performances. The band will play original pieces, covers, and age-old songs using many instruments, including flute, banjo, mandolin, tin whistle, guitar, low whistle, bodhran, accordion, concertina, and more. Kick off the Williamstown Holiday Walk weekend with this exciting Celtic concert! It is recommended that you purchase tickets in advance. 413-458-0524. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. $$$
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
- 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: 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 – 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.
