Berkshire Family Fun: December 2013

  Posted on November 30, 2013 By

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Berkshire County Highlights for Families:
December 2013

Find out about community events and learning opportunities happening throughout Berkshire County for the month of December. We’ll be adding to this list as the month progresses, so be sure to check back each week. Do you have an event you’d like to include in this list? Email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

To find out what’s happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, check our comprehensive list of Weekly Suggested Events, published every Thursday! There you will also find our list of ongoing weekday playgroups, storyhours and events both in Berkshire County and throughout the region.

List of Weekly Suggested Events

North Berkshire

Adams | Florida | Hancock | Lanesborough | Monterey | North Adams | Savoy | Williamstown | Windsor

Central Berkshire | South Berkshire

ADAMS

CHESHIRE

Sunday, December 8th at 6pm – TREE LIGHTING: Cheshire Holiday Tree Lighting happens at Town Hall with hayrides, refreshments and Santa! Cheshire, MA (FREE)

FLORIDA

HANCOCK

LANESBOROUGH

MONTEREY

NORTH ADAMS

Thursday, December 5th from 5:30pm-7:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Child Care of the Berkshires, Inc. is holding a Parent Café at the Haskins Community Center!  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)

Saturday, December 7th at 3pm – HOLIDAYS: Western Gateway Heritage State Park is offering an educational holiday program – a Natural History of the Holidays.  All ages will enjoy this educational talk.  413-663-6312.  115 State Street, Building #4.  North Adams, MA.

Thursday, December 12th from 5:30pm-6:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Child Care of the Berkshires, Inc. is offering a workshop for parents entitled, “Stress Busters: Taking Care of Ourselves.”  This workshop focuses on ways for parents to reduce stress, nurture themselves, and live healthy lives.  Please register in advance.  413-664-4821.  210 State Street.  North Adams, MA.

Friday, December 13th at 7pm, Saturday, December 14th at 2 & 7pm and Sunday, December 15th at 2pm – CHRISTMAS STORIES: Mill City Productions will host “Fireside Yuletide,” a dramatic reading of classic Christmas stories for the whole family read by Mill City actors. “Fireside Yuletide” include dramatic readings of many holiday classics, including “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” and “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” The production also includes singing of classic holiday songs and festive holiday refreshments will be served.  Mill City’s Theatre (115 State Street, Building 4) in the Western Gateway Heritage State Park. North Adams, MA (>$) 

Saturday, December 14th at 3pm – HOLIDAYS: Western Gateway Heritage State Park is offering an educational holiday program – Washington Irving’s Old Christmas.  413-663-6312.  115 State Street, Building #4.  North Adams, MA.

Friday, December 20th at 10:30am – WINTER SOLSTICE: Celebrate the Winter Solstice with Child Care of the Berkshires, Inc.!  Their special celebration features winter activities, stories, songs, snacks, and a fun parade with homemade instruments.  Please register.  413-664-4821.  210 State Street.  North Adams, MA.

Saturday, December 21st, 3pm – WINTER SOLSTICE: Western Gateway Heritage State Park is offering an educational astronomy lecture on the Winter Solstice.  413-663-6312.  115 State Street, Building #4.  North Adams, MA.

December 26th, 27th, 30th, 31st, 10am – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: MASS MoCA’s December Break for Art is the “One-Minute Art-Making Festival” in their Kidspace.  Kids can exercise their creativity with several different projects – kids make 15 different projects for 60 seconds each, making this a fun, fast-paced art-making event.  Please reserve your space in advance.  413-662-2111 x1.  1040 MASS MoCA Way.  North Adams, MA.  >$

Saturday, December 28th, 3pm – HISTORY: Western Gateway Heritage State Park is offering an educational program on the history of the calendar.  This is a great way to learn about dates, months, seasons, etc. while getting ready to welcome the New Year.  413-663-6312.  115 State Street, Building #4.  North Adams, MA.

Monday, December 30th, 10am – ART: MASS MoCA’s December Break for Art is the “Rockin’ Art Countdown” to get ready for the new year.  This special event counts down the top ten hits from Kidspace art projects and gives kids the chance to make their own.  Please reserve your space in advance.  413-662-2111 x1.  1040 MASS MoCA Way.  North Adams, MA.  >$

Tuesday, December 31st, 10am – ART: MASS MoCA’s December Break for Art is the “Rockin’ Art Countdown” to get ready for the new year.  This special event counts down the top ten hits from Kidspace art projects and gives kids the chance to make their own.  Please reserve your space in advance.  413-662-2111 x1.  1040 MASS MoCA Way.  North Adams, MA.  >$

SAVOY

Saturday, December 21st from 11:30am-9pm – WINTER SOLSTICE: Starseed Sanctuary, an interfaith healing sanctuary in the northern Berkshires, is hosting a daylong Winter Solstice celebration. Come together in community. Enjoy delicious food and enlivening company. Commune with the land. Enjoy music and song; meditation and ceremony; gift-making and gift-giving; gift-purchasing and fun-raising. 413- 743-0417. 672 Chapel Rd. Savoy, MA

WILLIAMSTOWN

Friday, December 6th at 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)

Friday, December 6th at 8pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT/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. The Clark.  413-458-0524.  225 South Street.  Williamstown, MA.  $$$

Saturday, December 7th from 3pm-6pm – HOLIDAY WALK: Williamstown’s 30th Annual Holiday Walk is today, and includes tons of fun activities for the whole family!  The Walk kicks off with the Reindog Parade, where Williamstown’s cutest dogs stroll down Spring Street in their holiday best.  You can then go see Santa and a holiday bake-off at The Log.  There will also be live music throughout the day, a toy drive, caroling, and more.  A full schedule and list of events can be found here.  Spring Street.  Williamstown, MA.

Saturday, December 7th at 4pm – CAROLS/CHRISTMAS: The annual Christmas Service of Lessons and Carols at Williams College takes place this weekend in the Thompson Memorial Chapel.  Choral music will be performed by the Williams Concert and Chamber Choirs, and there will also be congregational singing of carols.  In addition to music, this program features a reading of the traditional “lessons” derived from the Biblical Christmas story.  Please bring non-perishable food to donate to local food pantries.  413-597-4277.  Route 2.  Williamstown, MA.  (FREE)

Sunday, December 8th from 1pm – FAMILY MOVIE: As part of Williamstown’s Holiday Walk festivities, there will be a screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993; rated PG) at Images Cinema.  This animated Christmas classic tells the tale of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who wants to spread the joy of Christmas.  50 Spring Street.  Williamstown, MA.  (FREE)

Sunday, December 8th at 4pm – CAROLS/CHRISTMAS: The annual Christmas Service of Lessons and Carols at Williams College takes place this weekend in the Thompson Memorial Chapel.  Choral music will be performed by the Williams Concert and Chamber Choirs, and there will also be congregational singing of carols.  In addition to music, this program features a reading of the traditional “lessons” derived from the Biblical Christmas story.  Please bring non-perishable food to donate to local food pantries.  413-597-4277.  Route 2.  Williamstown, MA.  (FREE)

WINDSOR

Saturday, December 14th & Saturday, December 21st from 11am-1pm – NATURE STUDIES/CRAFTS: Join naturalist/educator Aimee Gelinas at Tamarack Hollow to learn all about balsam fir and make simple balsam crafts, such as wreaths, door hangings,  balsam balm, and fir needle sachets.  These handmade crafts will make great holiday gifts and are an excellent way to learn more about the balsam fir.  This is an adult program, but may be appropriate for older students.  More information here.  Registration is required.  413-584-3009.  1515 Savoy Hollow Road.  Windsor, MA.  $$

Sunday, December 15th from 10am-1pm – HIKING: Come to Savoy State Forest for a snowshoe trek (hike if no snow) up the Busby Trail.  Here you can see great views of Mt. Greylock, 19th-century stone walls and cellar holes, and learn about winter ecology, evergreen trees, and animal tracks.  Dress warmly and pack water and lunch.  Email aimee@gaiaroots.com to register.  413-522-1505.  1515 Savoy Hollow Road.  Windsor, MA.  (FREE)

Suggest Event

Central Berkshire

Becket | Dalton | Hinsdale | Lee | Lenox | Pittsfield | Richmond | Stockbridge | Tyringham | Washington | West Stockbridge

North Berkshire | South Berkshire

BECKET

DALTON

Crane Museum of Papermaking — Visit the Crane Museum of Papermaking to learn about the history of papermaking at Crane since the early 1800’s. Located on the banks of the Housatonic River, the building itself is a museum! This is a great opportunity to learn about local history. The museum is open weekdays from 1-5pm. — 413-684-2600. 30 South Street. (FREE)

HINSDALE

LEE

Saturday, December 7th from 11am-12noon – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Terry A La Berry is performing at the Spectrum Playhouse today!  Young kids will enjoy this fun-filled and interactive performance.  413-394-5023.  20 Franklin Street.  Lee, MA.

Saturday, December 14th at 11am – FAMILY MOVIE: The Lee Library is screening Despicable Me 2 (2013; rated PG) today!  Come by the library and enjoy this fun, family-friendly movie.  413-243-0385.  100 Main Street.  Lee, MA.

LENOX

COAT DRIVE: Lenox Memorial Middle and High School and the Lenox Community Center are sponsoring a coat drive through Dec 20th.  Families can stop by the Community Center and help themselves to warm jackets and coats for this winter.

Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum will kick off its sixth annual “A Home for the Holidays” program, an exciting full month of festivities for adults and children alike. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA ($)

Sunday, December 1st at 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.

December 6th-29th – THEATER/RADIO: Shakespeare and Company presents a special production of It’s a Wonderful Life – a live radio play!  The performance is a funny and unique play-within-a-play that tells the classic Christmas Eve tale of It’s a Wonderful Life, complete with live radio commercials, sound effects, and more.  This unique performance is a fun way to celebrate Christmas!  More information and a full list of showtimes can be found here.  413-637-3353.  70 Kemble Street.  Lenox, MA.  $$-$$$

Friday, December 6th at 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.

Saturday, December 7th & December 14th at 12noon & 2pm – HISTORY/HOLIDAYS: Celebrate the holidays at The Mount at their “Backstairs Tour.  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.  $

Saturday, December 7th at 3:30pm – PERFORMANCE: Come to Ventfort Hall for tea and a dramatic reading of “The Abduction of Mona Lisa.”  Older students and adults will enjoy this dramatic performance.  413-637-3206.  104 Walker Street.  Lenox, MA.  $$

Saturday, December 7th from 4pm-6pm – HISTORY/LITERATURE: Celebrate Jane Austen’s birthday and the 200th anniversary of Pride and Prejudice at The Mount with narrator Alison Larkin, who narrated a new audiobook for the novel.  Larkin will present excerpts from the recording, and there will also be tea, period music, and Austen trivia.  Fans of Jane Austen will enjoy this special event!  Tickets can be purchased in advance.  413-551-5111.  2 Plunkett Street.  Lenox, MA.  $$

Sunday, December 8th from 1pm-3pm – GINGERBREAD HOUSES: Celebrate the holidays and exercise your creativity at the Lenox Library’s 9th Annual Gingerbread House Competition and Silent Auction.  This year’s theme is “Berkshire Gingerbread Houses” and there will be entries by chefs, groups, and individuals of all ages.  Judges will award prizes in several categories, and each house will be auctioned off to benefit the library after the competition.  To learn more about the competition and how to enter, please contact the library.  413-637-2630.  18 Main Street.  Lenox, MA.

Saturday, December 14th from 10am-12noon – ORNITHOLOGY/CITIZEN SCIENTISTS: 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.  >$

Saturday, December 14th at 1pm & 7pm – SHAKESPEARE: Shakespeare and Company presents a special performance of Julius Caesar.  This classic Shakespearean drama would be best for older students and adults.  413-637-3353.  70 Kemble Street.  Lenox, MA.  $-$$

Sunday, December 15th at 3pm – CHRISTMAS/MUSIC: The Cantilena Chamber Choir will perform a Christmas concert today at Trinity Church.  They will sing classic carols, as well as the music of Poulenc, Britten, and more.  The whole family will enjoy this Christmas concert.  Kids get in for free.  88 Walker Street.  Lenox, MA.  $

Sunday, December 15th from 4pm-5pm – MUSIC STUDIES: Today’s installment of the Lenox Library’s Distinguished Lecture Series is “The Beatles Weren’t Really So Great! (Or Were They…?)” presented by David L. Glass.  Glass will discuss the history and hype of the Beatles.  Best for older students interested in music.  413-637-2630.  18 Main Street.  Lenox, MA.

Friday, December 27th, 3:30pm – MARIONETTE SHOW: Come to Ventfort Hall for refreshments and a Cinderella Marionette Show with Carl Sprague.  All ages will enjoy this classic story acted out with marionettes.  413-637-3206.  104 Walker Street.  Lenox, MA.  $$

Friday, December 27th, 7pm – PERFORMANCE: Come to Ventfort Hall for tea and a dramatic reading of “The Abduction of Mona Lisa.”  Older students and adults will enjoy this dramatic performance.  413-637-3206.  104 Walker Street.  Lenox, MA.  $$

PITTSFIELD

Pittsfield families are invited to participate in the North Pole Calling Program 2013. The purpose of this program is to offer City of Pittsfield children in Kindergarten through Second Grade an opportunity to speak directly with Santa Claus, or his number one assistant Mrs. Claus. The Parks & Recreation Program ‘elves’ would be more than happy to call your son or daughter and wish him or her ‘Happy Holidays’ on the evening of Wednesday, December 18 or Thursday, December 19.  Calls will be made from 5:00-7:30 p.m.  Forms will be sent home through the schools late November.

Sunday, December 1st at 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. ($$)

Wednesday, December 4th at 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.

Friday, December 6th at 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.

Saturday, December 7th & Sunday, December 8th from 10am-5pm – CRAFT FAIR: Find handmade and crafty holiday gifts at Alchemy Initiative’s 5th Annual Handmade Holiday Festival, held at the Masonic Lodge in Pittsfield.  Over 30 juried artisans, designers, and food producers from all over New England will be selling their handmade goods, including jewelry, ceramics, watercolors, apparel, wooden cutting boards, ornaments, and much more.  This is an excellent place to find a variety of local, handmade gifts.  116 South Street.  Pittsfield, MA.  >$

Saturday, December 7th from 7pm-11pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Berkshire Ballroom is holding a Holiday themed ballroom dance with a free night club 2 step lesson!  Try something new on date night and dance the night away with live DJ music.  413-684-1510.  116 South Street.  Pittsfield, MA.  $$

Saturday, December 14th from 10am-5pm – HOLIDAY CELEBRATION: The Berkshire Museum is offering a special Family Day in conjunction with the “Festival of Trees: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow.”  This fun day at the museum features Animals Up Close with Richard Roth of Creature Teachers, cookie decorating, a performance by the Blafield Children’s Chorus and the Berkshire Singers, and all the museum has to offer.  More information can be found here.  413-443-7171.  39 South Street.  Pittsfield, MA.  $$

December 14th-December 29th – THEATER:  Celebrate Christmas at the Berkshire Theatre Group’s performance of A Christmas Carol.  This classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge will take you back in time to Victorian England and entertain you with holiday music.  All ages will enjoy this holiday performance.  Show takes place at the Colonial Theatre.  413-997-4444.  111 South Street.  Pittsfield, MA.  $$$

Sunday, December 15th at 11am – CHRISTMAS MOVIE: The Berkshire Museum will host a screening of the holiday classic, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”  Books will be given out to attending children while supplies last! 413-443-7171. 39 South Street.  Pittsfield, MA (FREE)

Saturday, December 21st, 7:30pm – CHRISTMAS CONCERT: The Berkshire Lyrics Chorus and the Blafield Children’s Chorus come together tonight for “Making Spirits Bright,” a Christmas concert at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church.  The featured work at this concert will be Benjamin Britten’s “A Ceremony of Carols.”  This Christmas concert is appropriate for all ages and is a great holiday event for the whole family.  413-499-0258.  67 East Street.  Pittsfield, MA.  $$

Tuesday, December 24th, 10am-2pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Berkshire Museum presents the 29th annual Festival of Trees 2013: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow featuring more than 100 dazzling holiday trees sponsored by local businesses, schools, and community organizations and decorated to express the nostalgia of years past, the excitement of today’s hustle-bustle lifestyle, and the endless possibilities of the future. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA ($)

Saturday, December 28th from 11am-12noon – CHEMISTRY: Be a mad scientist at the Berkshire Museum! Along with the help of the museum’s very own crazy chemist, kids can learn how to do exciting and surprising (and safe!) experiments with regular household materials. Kitchen Kaboom! is totally kid-safe, but adults must accompany participating scientists. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE with museum admission)

Friday, December 27th, 1pm – CHRISTMAS/STORYTIME: All ages are invited to the Berkshire Athenaeum for Wilton Wilberry’s Magical Christmas Wishing Well!  The event features Christmas music and storytelling by A. Mifflin Lowe.  413-499-9480 x5.  1 Wendell Avenue.  Pittsfield, MA.  (FREE)

Saturday, December 28th, 11am-12noon – CHILDREN’S THEATER: The Berkshire Museum presents the Berkshire Children’s Theater Troupe in a performance of Peter Rabbit and the Bunny Hop.  The performance features kids ages 5-19 in a revamped, musical version of Beatrix Potter’s classic story, taking place in the 1950s.  Kids ages 2 and up will love this show, which includes singing, dancing, and more.  Cost includes museum admission.  413-443-7171.  39 South Street.  Pittsfield, MA.  $$

Saturday, December 28th, 7pm – THEATER/CHRISTMAS: Celebrate Christmas at the Berkshire Theatre Group’s performance of A Christmas Carol.  This classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge will take you back in time to Victorian England and entertain you with holiday music.  All ages will enjoy this holiday performance.  Show takes place at the Colonial Theatre.  413-997-4444.  111 South Street.  Pittsfield, MA.  $$$

Sunday, December 29th, 3:30pm-4:30pm – CHILDREN’S THEATER: Celebrate Ten Years of Berkshire Children’s Theater at the Berkshire Museum.  Past and present troupe members will perform their favorite musical memories for audience members.  Followed by a reception in the museum’s Crane Room.  413-443-7171.  39 South Street.  Pittsfield, MA.  $$$

Monday, December 30th, 11am-12:30pm  CHILDREN’S THEATER: The Berkshire Museum presents the Berkshire Children’s Theater Troupe in a performance of Peter Rabbit and the Bunny Hop.  The performance features kids ages 5-19 in a revamped, musical version of Beatrix Potter’s classic story, taking place in the 1950s.  Kids ages 2 and up will love this show, which includes singing, dancing, and more.  Cost includes museum admission.  413-443-7171.  39 South Street.  Pittsfield, MA.  $$

Tuesday, December 31st, 11am-12noon – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: The Berkshire Museum presents “The Pirate, the Princess, and the Pea,” performed by Crabgrass Puppet Theater.  The show tells a tale of pirates, princesses, treasure, and more.  413-443-7171.  39 South Street.  Pittsfield, MA.  $$

RICHMOND

Saturday, December 14th at 7pm: PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Visit Hilltop Orchards for a Full Moon Trek and Bonfire tonight!  After the 1-1.5 mile hike, there will be a bonfire, wine tasting, and entertainment.  This is a fun opportunity to get outdoors and hike under the beautiful full moon.  Please call to reserve your spot.  800-833-6274.  508 Canaan Road.  Richmond, MA.  $

Saturday, December 28th, 12noon-2:30pm – HIKING: Join the Berkshire Natural Resources Council for a 3-4 mile hike at Hollow Fields.  The hike will lead you through fields and forests, and you can see amazing views of the Yokun Ridge.  Come prepared for snow hiking – bring snowshoes.  Best for older students or adults.  413-499-0596.  Perry’s Peak Road.  Richmond, MA.

STOCKBRIDGE

Friday, December 6th at 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)

Saturday, December 7th from 11am-11:30am – HOLIDAY STORYTIME: As part of the Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas event, the Stockbridge Library is hosting a children’s holiday storytime.  Kids can come hear favorite holiday stories!  413-298-5501.  46 Main Street.  Stockbridge, MA. 

Saturday, December 7th from 11am-4pm – LOCAL HISTORY/HOLIDAY STROLL: Explore some of Stockbridge’s historic homes and properties as past of Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas on this Holiday House Tour.  The self-guided tour will take you to October Mountain Farm, 1862 Seasons on Main B&B, Merwin House, Southmayd, Naumkeag, and Windermere.  Discover local history and learn about the Stockbridge of the past on this tour.  Tickets can be purchased in advance through the Chamber of Commerce or on the day of at the Red Lion Inn.  Stockbridge, MA.  $$$

Saturday, December 7th from 6pm-7pm – CAROLING: Participate in the Caroling Luminaria Walk as part of the Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas festivities.  Meet in front of the Red Lion Inn with your flashlight or candle, sing carols, and walk to the First Congregational Church with luminarias.  Main Street.  Stockbridge, MA.

Saturday, December 7th from 7:30pm – HOLIDAY CONCERT: Celebrate the holidays at the First Congregational Church in Stockbridge at the Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas Holiday Concert.  There will be performances by the Berkshire Lyric Chorus, the Blafield Children’s Chorus, and others.  Main Street.  Stockbridge, MA.  $$-$$$

Sunday, December 8th from 12noon-2pm – HOLIDAY STROLL: The Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas Recreation is today!  Stroll down Main Street and see it as it was when Norman Rockwell painted his famous painting “Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas.”  Antique cars will be parked along the street, and there will be music, carols, Christmas food, Roger the Jester, kids’ activities, and visits with Santa.  This holiday event allows you to get an idea of what Stockbridge was like in the past, while celebrating the present-day town and the upcoming holidays.  A full schedule is available here.  Main Street.  Stockbridge, MA.  >$

Thursday, December 26th, 1pm-4pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: There will be a drop-in picture book activity at the Norman Rockwell Museum today!  Kids can come make up characters and design their own storylines, plots, and settings inspired by the picture book art on display at the museum.  Kids can even come dressed as princes and princesses when they come to make their picture books.  Free with museum admission.  413-298-4100.  9 Route 183.  Stockbridge, MA.  $

Saturday, December 28th, 11am – CHILDREN’S CONCERT: The Berkshire Theatre Group presents a performance by David Grover and Grover’s Gang with the BTG PLAYS! Children’s Chorus at the Unicorn Theatre.  They will perform great live music that kids of all ages will enjoy.  Tickets can be purchased in advance.  413-298-5576.  6 East Street.  Stockbridge, MA.  $$

Saturday, December 28th, 1pm-4pm – PICTURE BOOKS: There will be a drop-in picture book activity at the Norman Rockwell Museum today!  Kids can come make up characters and design their own storylines, plots, and settings inspired by the picture book art on display at the museum.  Kids can even come dressed as princes and princesses when they come to make their picture books.  Free with museum admission.  413-298-4100.  9 Route 183.  Stockbridge, MA.  $

TYRINGHAM

  • Woven Roots Farm — 413-528-9697.

WASHINGTON

  • Washington Town Park —  Route 8.

WEST STOCKBRIDGE

  • Town Center — 413-232-0222. Town center.

Suggest Event

South Berkshire

Great Barrington | Housatonic | Monterey | New Marlborough | Sheffield

North Berkshire | Central Berkshire

GIFTS FOR TEENS: The spirit of giving back to the community emerges during the holiday season in full force – perhaps more than at any other time of year. We find ways to donate our time, our money, our food, and our goods to those in need, but despite the countless opportunities for doing so, certain people are left out of our system of giving. This holiday season, the South Berkshire Community Coalition will be collecting donations in order to provide gifts to teens (ages 13-18) who are not served by other gift-giving organizations. Rather than donating actual items to Gifts for Teens, the organization asks that community members make monetary donations or purchase a gift card to a local business in the southern Berkshires. In addition to the project’s accessibility for families and individuals, the organization offers a drop off change jar service! Local organizations, businesses, and schools can arrange to raise money on a larger scale by prominently displaying a collection jar and sharing information about the organization’s goals. For more information or to request a jar, call Shelley Brooks at 413-248-0755 or e-mail sbrooks@chpberkshires.org.

GREAT BARRINGTON

Saturday, December 7th at 1pm – CULINARY ARTS/HOLIDAYS: Kids can come to the Berkshire Co-Op Market today to learn how to make gingerbread people.  Participants will leave the workshop with dough they made, and will have the chance to decorate cookies as well.  A good way for kids to learn how to make fun holiday treats!  Please sign-up in advance.  413-528-9697 x10.  42 Bridge Street.  Great Barrington, MA.

Friday, December 13th at 7:30pm – CAROLING: Enjoy an evening of traditional, festive winter carols and general merriment, performed by the four gentlemen who are Nowell Sing We Clear. Fiddles, accordions and gorgeous harmonies, peppered with their unique humor and a traditional Mummer’s Play are sure to get the whole family into the Holiday spirit. Takes place at the Great Barrington Rudolf Steiner School Auditorium. Limited seating available. 413-528-4015 x104. 35 West Plain Road. Great Barrington, MA ($)

Saturday, December 14th & Sunday, December 15th from 10am-2pm – HOLIDAY FARMERS’ MARKET: The Berkshire Grown Holiday Farmers’ Market features holiday ingredients and gifts from local farmers and artisans.  Support local agriculture and craftspeople this holiday season!  Takes place at Monument Valley Middle School.  413-528-0041.  313 Monument Valley Road.  Great Barrington, MA.

Saturday, December 14th from 1:15pm-2:30pm – GINGERBREAD HOUSES: Kids ages 6 and up can get creative this holiday season at the Mason Library’s Gingerbread House activity.  All supplies will be provided, so come to the library and practice your architectural skills by building a gingerbread house!  Registration is required.  413-528-2403.  231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.

Saturday, December 14th at 3pm – DIY: Kids can make their own holiday snow globes at the Berkshire Co-Op Market!  Bring small old toys (some will be provided) to put in the snow globes.  This is a great way for kids to get into the holiday spirit by creating holiday decorations made from pre-used goods (jars, toys).  Please call or stop by the front desk to sign up.  413-528-9697 x10.  42 Bridge Street.  Great Barrington, MA.

Sunday, December 15th at 3pm – FOOD HISTORY/FILM: Would you like to learn more about what the holidays were like in the past?  The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center and the Mount have partnered to present “Downton Abbey and Gilded Age Holiday Entertaining,” with food historian Francine Segan.  She will discuss the sorts of traditions, etiquette, dishes, and entertainment that were popular in high society during the Gilded Age, such as calling cards, horse-drawn coaches, high tea, cotillions, formal dinner, and more.  The evening also includes trivia, tastings, demonstrations, recipes, and a screening of  Somewhere in Time (1980; rated PG).  This fascinating and entertaining lecture would be best for older students interested in history, food, or film.  Tickets can be purchased in advance.  413-528-0100.  14 Castle Street.  Great Barrington, MA.  $

Wednesday, December 18th at 4pm – CAROLING: Engage with your community and spread holiday cheer by going caroling at the Claire Teague Senior Center!  All are welcome at this fun holiday activity, which is a great opportunity to spend time with community members of all ages.  Please RSVP.  413-248-0755.  917 Main Street.  Great Barrington, MA.

Saturday, December 21st, 4pm – WINTER SOLSTICE: Join the Guthrie Center at the old Trinity Church for Circle of Sound – A Global Sound Meditation in Honor of the Winter Solstice.  Bring a drum, bowl, or your voice and come meditate for “joy, harmony, acceptance, unity, and compassion for all beings on Mother Earth.”  Please RSVP.  413-528-1955.  2 Van Deusenville Road.  Great Barrington, MA.

Sunday, December 22nd, 7pm – CHRISTMAS/FILM: The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center is screening It’s a Wonderful Life (1946).  This classic Christmas film will delight all ages and get everyone in the Christmas spirit!  413-528-0100.  14 Castle Street.  Great Barrington, MA.  (FREE)

Thursday, December 26th, 11am-12noon – CHILDREN’S CONCERT: Join Berkshire South Regional Community Center for a post-holiday family concert with Terry A La Berry and Friends!  The concert will get you singing and dancing and having fun!  413-528-2810.  15 Crissey Road.  Great Barrington, MA.

Friday, December 27th, 5pm – FAMILY MOVIE: The Polar Express (2004; rated PG), based Chris Van Allsburg’s book of the same name, is about a boy who boards a magical train headed for the North Pole.  The film is known for its use of live action performance capture technique, which used the movements of live actors and turned these into 3D animation.  The movie is a great Christmas story for kids of all ages, so come to Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center and enjoy the screening of this fun holiday film!  413-528-0100.  14 Castle Street.  Great Barrington, MA.  $

Saturday, December 28th, 8pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Broadway star Jessica Molaskey will perform tonight at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center with John Pizzarelli and special guest Bucky Pizzarelli.  The three will perform jazz music with guitar, vocals, and banjo.  This is a great pre-New Year’s performance and a good chance to see some wonderful live music.  Tickets can be purchased in advance.  413-528-0100.  14 Castle Street.  Great Barrington, MA.  $$$

Sunday, December 29th, 4pm – CARTOONS: The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center presents “Classic Cartoons,” a screening of the Looney Tunes short films that were produced from 1930 until 1969.  Kids will enjoy seeing these fun cartoons, and adults will love getting to step into the past and see Bugs, Daffy, Porky, Sylvester, Taz, and the rest of the Looney Tunes gang on the big screen.  413-528-0100.  14 Castle Street.  Great Barrington, MA.  $

Tuesday, December 31st, 6pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Welcome the New Year with Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center at their “Bach at New Year’s” event!  This is the 20th year that the Berkshire Bach Society has done this event, and in order to celebrate the tradition, the Berkshire Bach Ensemble will perform all of Bach’s Six Brandenburg Concerti in reverse order.  Classical music lovers will enjoy this performance, which is an exciting and unique way to ring in the New Year!  Tickets can be purchased in advance.  413-528-0100.  14 Castle Street.  Great Barrington, MA.  $$$

HOUSATONIC

Saturday, December 14th from 10:30am-11:30am – ARTS & CRAFTS: Kids 4 and up can come to the Ramsdell Library to make holiday crafts.  This fun activity is a way for kids to have fun, be creative, and help with holiday decorating.  413-274-3738.  1087 Main Street.  Housatonic, MA.

MONTEREY

NEW MARLBOROUGH

  • Cookson State Forest  — Hotchkiss Road.
  • New Marlborough Library  — 413-664-0104. 1 Mill River-Great Barrington Road.

OTIS

SANDISFIELD

SHEFFIELD

Friday, December 6th & Saturday, December 7th from 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.

Saturday, December 7th from 9am-2pm – COOKIE WALK: Don’t miss Undermountain Elementary’s Annual Cookie Walk! Not only will there be tons of cookies, but there will also be an auction, book sale, plant sale, school groups and over 45 community vendors. Santa Claus will also be making a special appearance. Undermountain Elementary School. 413-229-8754. 491 Berkshire School Rd. Sheffield, MA (Sale)

Saturday, December 7th from 10am-3pm: HOLIDAY FAIR: New Marlborough Central and Monterey Schools have been gearing up for their annual Holiday Fair at the New Marlborough Central School in Mill River. The Holiday Fair is PTA’s biggest fundraising event of the year.  For an auction preview, check out www.nmmpta.weebly.com.  New Marlborough Central School.  491 Berkshire School Rd, Sheffield, MA (SALE)

Saturday, December 14th from 10am-12noon – HIKING/SANTA: Spend this morning on a special half-mile hike with Santa at Bartholomew’s Cobble!  Kids can learn about nature and the wonders of winter while spending time friends, parents, and Santa.  Adults free; cost for children includes a present.  413-229-8600.  105 Weatogue Road.  Sheffield, MA.

Saturday, December 28th, 10am-12noon – SNOWSHOEING: Join the Trustees of Reservations at Bartholomew’s Cobble for a Snowshoe Trek!  Explore the reservation’s forests, fields, hills, and river, as well as wildlife tracks and signs, on this easy-to-moderate trek.  Snowshoes available in kid and adult sizes.  Please RSVP.  413-229-8600.  105 Weatogue Road.  Sheffield, MA.  $

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[Photo credit: (cc) Pete Zarria]

 Category: Berkshire County, Berkshire Family Fun, Western MA Events, Western Massachusetts Events      Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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