Hilltown Families 
Berkshire Family Fun: January 2014
Berkshire County Highlights for Families:
January 2014
Find out about community events and learning opportunities happening throughout Berkshire County for the month of January. 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!
North Berkshire
Adams | Florida | Hancock | Lanesborough | Monterey | North Adams | Williamstown | Windsor
Central Berkshire | South Berkshire
ONGOING: Tuesdays, 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.
- Whitney’s Farm Market – 413-442-4749. 1775 S. State Rd. Rt.8. Cheshire, MA
ONGOING: Tuesdays, 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.
- Jiminy Peak — 413-738-5500. 37 Corey Road.
Saturday, January 11, 9:45am – SNOWSHOEING: The Berkshire Natural Resources Council is holding their Constitution Hill Snowshoe Race today! Registration begins at 9:45am, the race begins at 10:30am, and the Fun Run starts at 10:35am. This is a good way for families to spend time together outdoors during the winter. Registration is required. 413-499-0596. Bridge Street. Lanesboro, MA. $
ONGOING: Fridays, 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.
- Lanesborough Library — 413-499-5981. 83 North Main Street.
- Mt. Greylock — 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road.
- Ashintully — 413-298-3239. Sodom Road
Thursday, January 9, 5:30pm-7:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Child Care of the Berkshires 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 1/6. 413-663-7588. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 11, 11am-7pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Today is Free Day at MASS MoCA! There will be art-making, dance performances, roaming musicians, gallery tours, and more. There will be something for all ages to enjoy! 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Friday, January 17, 10:30am – PARENT-CHILD WORKSHOP: Parents and babies aged 2-12 months are invited to an “Ages and Stages Playtime” at the Haskin Center’s Family Resource Center Playroom. This playtime, run by Child Care of the Berkshires, gives parents and babies an opportunity to interact with each other at various play stations while learning about their baby’s individual growth and development. Parents will also fill out a questionnaire in order to find out fun learning activities that would be beneficial for their child. This event is great for parents who want to learn about their baby’s developmental progress! Registration is required. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA.
Saturday, January 18, 10am-11:30am – CHILDREN’S CELEBRATION/CULTURAL STUDIES: Join Child Care of the Berkshires for “Our Big World Culture Festival,” a festival for families that celebrates different cultures all over the world. There will be children’s games, activities, music, and food from cultures around the world. Please call to register. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA.
Monday, January 27, 5:30pm-7pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Childcare of the Berkshires is offering a workshop for parents, “Active Parenting of Children 1-4 Years.” The workshop is a three-part series (1/27, 2/3, 2/10) on developmental stages, positive discipline methods, preventing tantrums, good routines, and how to take care of yourself so you can better take care of your family. This is also a great way to meet other parents. Pre-registration is required. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA.
ONGOING: Tuesdays, 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.
- Childcare of the Berkshires — 413-664-4821. 210 State Street.
- Downtown North Adams — 413-662-3000. Main Street.
- Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts — 413-664-4821. Church Street.
- Mill City Productions — 115 State Street, Building 4.
- Minerva Arts Center — 413-346-4502.
- Natural Bridge State Park — 413-663-6392. McCauley Road.
- Song Sailor Studio — 413-664-6109. 215 Richview Ave.
- Western Gateway Heritage State Park — 115 State Street, Building 4.
Saturday, January 18, 9am-11:30am; 12noon-4pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: Naturalist Dan Yacobellis will be at Sheep Hill to lead two Winter Snow Animal Tracking programs today. The first, from 9am-11:30am, is for beginners and young children, and features a family-friendly walk. From 12noon-4pm, adults and kids 8 and older can venture into the forest to search for fisher tracks, bobcat tracks, and more. These workshops are a great way to get kids interested in tracking and nature studies. Registration is required. 413-458-2494. 671 Cold Spring Road. Williamstown, MA. $
Saturday, January 18, 10am-12noon – OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: Cross the border into Vermont today and join the Trustees of Reservations for a Snowshoe Trek at Mountain Meadow! This is the Trustees’ most northwest property and it includes many gentle trails that are perfect for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Bring snowshoes or skis and come prepared to have fun in the snow and see some great views of the Greylock Range! 413-532-1631 x10. Benedict Road. Pownal, VT.
Monday, January 20, 5pm – ACTIVISM/FILM: In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Images Cinema is screening #ReGENERATION, a documentary about the influences of education, parenting, and media on today’s youth and how it affects their social activism. Directed by Phillip Montgomery, the film features the wisdom and personal reflections of scholars, social activists, and media personalities like Noam Chomsky, Howard Zinn, Kalle Lasn, Andrew Bacevich, Talib Kweli, and others. The film would be best for teens interested in politics, social justice, or activism. 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
ONGOING: Mondays, 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.
- Field Farm — 413-458-3135. 554 Sloan Road.
- The Clark — 413-458-2303. 225 South Street.
- Hops and Vines — 413-884-1372. 16 Water Street.
- Images Cinema — 413-458-1039. 50 Spring Street.
- Milne Library — 413-458-5369. 1095 Main Street.
- Sweet Brook Farm — 413-884-4246. 580 Oblong Road.
- Wild Oats Co-op — 413-458-8060. 320 Main Street.
- Williams College — 413-597-2188. 829 Main Street.
- Williams College Museum of Art — 413-597-2376. 15 Lawrence Hall Drive.
- Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation — 413-458-2494. 671 Cold Spring Road. Route 7.
- Williamstown Youth Center — 413-458-5925. 270 Cole Avenue.
Saturday, January 11, 10:30am-1:30pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: As part of the “Winter Feels Good” campaign, Notchview is holding a Winter Trails Day for families. Get outdoors and enjoy winter with cross-country ski lessons, a waxing and ski care clinic, a snowshoe hike, a ski fti testing station, half price trail fees, and more. There will be a limited number of skis available for use. 413-684-0148. Route 9. Windsor, MA. [postponed until February 1st due to lack of snow]
Saturday, January 11, 7pm-9pm – SKIING: Tonight is the Trustees of Reservations’ annual Moonlight Skiing event at Notchview. Come meet other skiers, enjoy the outdoors, and have cider and popcorn after the event. Best for older students and adults. 413-684-0148. Route 9. Windsor, MA. $
Sunday, January 12, 10am-1pm – HIKING/NATURE STUDIES: Explore Savoy State Forest and the Hoosac Range with Aimee Gelinas of Tamarack Hollow Nature and Cultural Center on a winter hike (with snowshoes if snowy). Learn about winter ecology, animal tracking, evergreen trees, and more. Best for older students or adults. Registration is required. Directions will be given upon registration. Email aimee@gaiaroots.com to register. Location TBA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 18, 10am-1pm – HIKING/NATURE STUDIES: Explore the high-elevation forests of Tamarack Hollow with Aimee Gelinas of Tamarack Hollow Nature and Cultural Center. Forests at high elevations are unique in their plant and animal life, and you can learn how to identify some of these plants, like balsam fir, and look for tracks of animals, like snowshoe hare and ruffled grouse. This snowshoe hike is approximately two miles round trip and is best for older teens and adults. More information about the event and snowshoe rentals can be found on the Mass Audubon website. Registration is required. 413-584-3009. 1516 Savoy Hollow Road. Windsor, MA. $$
Central Berkshire
Becket | Dalton | Hinsdale | Lee | Lenox | Pittsfield | Richmond | Stockbridge | Tyringham | Washington | West Stockbridge
North Berkshire | South Berkshire
Saturday, January 11, 1-5pm: CROSS COUNTRY SKIING: Canterbury Farm Cross Country Ski Center is participating in Winter Trail Days with free ski rental and trail passes for new skiers. Classes Run at 1:15pm, 2:30pm, & 3:45pm (come 15 min early) and they may put in a child’s class. Registration required. 413-623-0100. 1986 Fred Snow Road. Becket, MA (FREE)
ONGOING: Tuesdays, 11am-12:30pm – STORYTIME: Weekly story time, snack and get-together for preK kids and their caregivers. Becket-Washington Library. 413-623-5483. 3367 Main Street. Becket, MA (FREE)
- Becket Arts Center — 413-623-6635. 7 Brooker Hill Road.
- Becket Land Trust — 413-623-2100. Quarry Road.
- Becket Quarry — 413-623-2100. Quarry Road.
- Jacob’s Pillow — 413-243-9919. 385 George Carter Road.
Saturday, January 11th & Sunday, January 12th: – COAT GIVE AWAY: Dalton Rotary Interact Club PRESENTS The 6th Community Coat Give Away January 11th – 12th 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Dalton CRA Coats will be free of charge, a coat donation is not necessary to receive a coat. During the weeks leading up to the coat drive, drop off unwanted coats, jackets hats and/or gloves to the following locations: Wahconah Nessacus Craneville St. Agnes Kittredge Dalton Ballet Studio O’Laughlins Home Pharmacy Dalton CRA
Monday, January 20, 7:30am-5pm – DAY CAMP: The Dalton CRA is holding a Martin Luther King Jr. Day Camp for kids, featuring fun games, activities, time outside, swimming, a movie, and pizza. Sign up at the CRA. 413-684-0260. 400 Main Street. Dalton, MA. $$
ONGOING: Weekdays, 1-5pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: 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/industry and how paper is made. — 413-684-2600. 30 South Street. (FREE)
ONGOING: Thursdays, 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.
- Dalton CRA — 413-684-0260. 400 Main St.
- Lee Library — 413-243-0385. 100 Main Street.
- Spectrum Playhouse — 413-394-5023. 20 Franklin Street.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS: The Lenox Library announces another community-wide read, this year reading The Celestials: A Novel by Berkshire author Karen Shepard. Suggested by Lenox High School students, the novel is based on the hiring of Chinese immigrants in order to break a strike in North Adams in 1870. Discussions will center on immigration, assimilation, and acceptance in America. Activities related to the book will take place in February, beginning with a talk by author and Williams College professor Karen Shepard on Thursday, February 6. Additional programs include a lecture on North Adams in 1870 by Paul W. Marino on February 13, a slideshow on minority groups in Lenox’s history on February 20, and a showing of the film “The Visitor” on February 27. All programs will be held at the library at 7 p.m. Two book discussions for The Celestials will be held, one in the library on February 18 and one at The Bookstore on February 25, both beginning at 6:30 p.m. For more information and links to related articles on The Celestials, visit The Lenox Library’s Facebook page or email info@lenoxlib.org
Saturday, January 4, 3:30pm – FILM STUDIES/LOCAL HISTORY: Ventfort Hall will present the Academy Award-winning period drama, All This, and Heaven Too (1940), along with a discussion about the film, its history, and the novel on which it is based. The book, by Rachel Field, is based on her experiences with her family in Stockbridge. This event is best for older students with audience skills who are interested in film and/or local history. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. $$
Saturday, January 11, 10am-12noon – BIRD STUDIES: Observe birds and learn about bird banding at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Sanctuary volunteers will demonstrate how to use mist nets and what information can be gathered through bird banding. Visitors can come and go from the program as they wish. Free with Sanctuary admission. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road. Lenox, MA. >$
Saturday, January 18, 3pm-5pm – HISTORY/LITERATURE: What do Edith Wharton and Julian Fellowes, creator of Downton Abbey, have in common? Join Vanity Fair writed David Kamp for, “From the House of Mirth to the House of Crawley,” at The Mount. He will discuss his conversations and experiences with Fellowes, and how Fellowes’ work is informed by Wharton’s The House of Mirth, The Age of Innocence, and Old New York. Recommended for older students who are interested in history and/or literature. Reservations are encouraged. 413-551-5100. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. $
Sunday, January 19, 3pm – COMMUNITY SING/MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY: The Cantilena Chamber Choir presents a Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend Psalms and Spirituals Open Sing. Dr. King will be remembered through poems and speeches, and there will also be a spiritual sing-along. In addition to the Chamber Choir, the MCLA Allegrettos and the Taconic High School Choir will perform. Takes place at Trinity Church. 88 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. SUGGESTED DONATION $$
Sunday, January 19, 4pm – POETRY:Today’s installment of the Lenox Library’s Distinguished Lecture Series is “The State of Contemporary Poetry,” with author, columnist, and poet Michelle Gillett. This program would be best for older students interested in poetry. 413-637-2630. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA.
Thursday, January 23, 6pm-7:30pm – LITERATURE: Today, the eve of Edith Wharton’s 152nd birthday, author Francesca Segal will read aloud from New Year’s Day (the ‘Seventies) by Edith Wharton, at The Mount. This novella was written to capture the essence of the 1870s and can provide a peek into life in the past. 413-551-5100. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. $
Saturday, January 25, 3pm-5:30pm – HISTORY/ART/LITERATURE: Dr. Emily Orlando will present “Fifty Shades of Lily: Wharton, Art, and Popular Culture” at the Mount today in honor of Edith Wharton’s 152nd birthday. The lecture focuses on Wharton’s career-long engagement with the visual arts and the ways in which Wharton’s critique of the representation of women in 19th-century visual culture is relevant to the 12st-century. Those interested in history, art, literature, and women’s studies will enjoy this talk. Reservations are encouraged. 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. $
ONGOING: Tuesdays, 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)
ONGOING: Wednesdays, 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)
ONGOING: Thursdays, 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)
- Elayne P. Bernstein Theatre — 413-637-3353. 70 Kemble Street.
- Lenox Historical Society — Main Street.
- The Mount — 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street.
- Tanglewood — 413-637-5274. 297 West Street.
- Ventfort Hall — 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street.
Saturday, January 4, 10am & 2pm – VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY/ANIMAL WELFARE: The Berkshire Humane Society will host an orientation for their “Humane Hero” youth program. This is a new volunteer program just for kids and their parents. Come learn about this new program at one of two different orientations happening on Saturday: 10am at Berkshire Humane Society classroom at 214 Barker Road in Pittsfield; or 2pm at Berkshire South Community Center at 15 Crissey Road in Great Barrington. Call to RSVP. 413-447-7878 x. 29. Pittsfield & Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 4, 12:30pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: It’s chow time at the Berkshire Museum! Come watch museum staff some of the aquarium’s most exciting residents. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Saturday, January 11, 10:30am-11:30am – ANIMAL STUDIES/PHOTOGRAPHY: Photographers Dan Mead and Sally Eagle of MeadEagle Photos will be at the Berkshire Museum today to share some of their photos and talk about their exciting travels all over the world. “Untamed: Wild and Endangered Animals” will feature stunning animal photos and stories from all over the globe. Reservations are requested. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Saturday, January 11, 2pm-3:45pm – ICE SKATING: The City of Pittsfield Recreation Program and the Boys and Girls Club of Pittsfield have teamed up to offer a free public skate and free skate rentals at the Boys and Girls Club rink! This offer only applies to the first 100 people to arrive, so get there early! 413-448-8258. 16 Melville Street. Pittsfield, MA.
Sunday, January 12, 2-4pm: HISTORY/ANIMAL ADVOCACY: Do you consider yourself an advocate for animal welfare? Do your kids bring home every stray cat or dog (or fledgling) with whom they cross paths? Having an understanding of the history of the movement to prevent cruelty towards animals can help animal lovers young and old feel more rooted in their understanding and support of animal welfare. Berkshire Humane Society will host Diane Beers, Ph.D., author of “For the Prevention of Cruelty: The History and Legacy of Animal Rights Activism in the United States” (Ohio University Press, 2006.), as part of their “Coffee Hour Speaking Series.” Dr. Beers will trace the history of the animal welfare movement in the United States from its earliest beginnings until the 1970’s. 413-447-7878, ext. 28. Berkshire Humane Society. 214 Barker Road. Pittsfield, MA (FREE)
Saturday, January 18, 10:30am-12noon – STORYTIME: Celebrate winter at the Berkshire Athenaeum! Toddlers and preschoolers are invited to the library for a special winter-themed storytime featuring stories, crafts, snacks, and a short video. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 25, 2pm-3:45pm – ICE SKATING: The City of Pittsfield Recreation Program and the Boys and Girls Club of Pittsfield have teamed up to offer a free public skate and free skate rentals at the Boys and Girls Club rink! This offer only applies to the first 100 people to arrive, so get there early! 413-448-8258. 16 Melville Street. Pittsfield, MA.
Saturday, January 25, 5pm-7pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Explore the Berkshire Museum’s newest exhibit, “Berkshire Collects,” at its opening reception this evening! The exhibition features Berkshire County residents’ collectible items, from motorcycles to antique toasters, and much more. More than forty collectors share their items in this exhibit, which allows visitors to see a variety of different collections. At the reception, you can see the exhibit, meet some of the collectors, and enjoy light refreshments. Please RSVP. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. >$
ONGOING: Tuesdays, 10am – STORYTIME: Storytime for toddlers at the Berkshire Athenaeum. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
ONGOING: Wednesdays, 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)
ONGOING: Thursdays, 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)
ONGOING: Fridays, 10am – PLAYGROUP: Come watch preschool videos at the Berkshire Athenaeum every Friday! 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
ONGOING: Fridays, 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. $
- Arrowhead — 413-442-1793. 780 Holmes Road.
- Berkshire Music School — 413-442-1411. 30 Wendell Ave.
- Canoe Meadows — 413-637-0320. Holmes Road.
- Colonial Theatre — 413-298-5576. 111 South Street.
- First Friday Artswalk — Downtown.
- Hancock Shaker Village — 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic.
- Lichtenstein Center for the Arts — 413-499-9348. 28 Renne Avenue. ($)
- Marketplace Cafe — 55 North Street.
- Moments House — 413-443-6800. 194 Fenn St.
- Hilltop Orchard — Route 295.
Tuesday, January 7, 6:30pm – LOCAL HISTORY: The Stockbridge Library’s Museum and Archives is offering a local history program on the first Tuesday of each month, entitled “Behind Closed Doors: At Home in Stockbridge.” Each program focuses on the town’s historic homes, their history, and the people who lived in them. Current Stockbridge homeowners will present this information about their homes and the previous residents. This month’s program is entitled, “Two Sturdy Brick Houses on Main Street.” Those interested in local history will enjoy these programs. 413-298-5501. 46 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA.
Saturday, January 11, 1pm-4pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES/ART: Families are invited to the Norman Rockwell Museum for “ Dance! A Family Day.” This special family day celebrates the museum’s current featured exhibit, “Dancing Princesses: The Fairy Tale Art of Ruth Sanderson,” and features dancers from the Berkshire Ballroom, an illustrated look at dance as it relates to the exhibition (by dancer/archivist Eugenia Kim), tours, reading, art-making, and more. This is a great way for families to engage with the museum and its current featured exhibit. Free with museum admission. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. $$
Sunday, January 12, 4pm – PSYCHOLOGY: The Stockbridge Library presents a talk by Dr. Jonathan Aronoff, entitled “The Lost Generation of Boys,” as part of their Sunday Speaker Series. Aronoff is a licensed psychologist, psychoanalyst, and personal coach who focuses on adolescent and young adult males. His talk is about the current trend of immaturity, impatience, passivity, and/or abusive, violent, and aggressive behaviors displayed by many young men and boys who gravitate towards technologically-driven activities as a way to withdraw from the real world. Aronoff will discuss factors that have contributed to this trend and possible ways that adults can socialize and mentor boys to help steer them from this path. 413-298-5501. 46 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 25, 9am-4pm – TEACHER WORKSHOP: Teachers are invited to the Norman Rockwell Museum for “ True Stories: Non-Fiction Children’s Books in the Classroom,” a workshop in which you can explore the world of non-fiction picture books and Common Core-ready resources. Illustrators and authors, including David Macaulay, Wendell Minor, and Florence Minor, will be present to offer curriculum connections. There will also be tours of the Wendell Minor’s America exhibit, snacks, and a book signing. Pre-registration is required. 413-931-2252. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. $$
ONGOING: Fridays, 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.
- Berkshire Botanical Garden — 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road.
- Chesterwood — 413-298-3579. 4 Williamsville Road
- Mission House — 413-298-3239. 5 Prospect Hill Road.
ONGOING: Mondays, 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)
South Berkshire
Great Barrington | Housatonic | Monterey | New Marlborough | Sheffield
North Berkshire | Central Berkshire
Saturday, January 4, 10am & 2pm – VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY/ANIMAL WELFARE: The Berkshire Humane Society will host an orientation for their “Humane Hero” youth program. This is a new volunteer program just for kids and their parents. Come learn about this new program at one of two different orientations happening on Saturday: 10am at Berkshire Humane Society classroom at 214 Barker Road in Pittsfield; or 2pm at Berkshire South Community Center at 15 Crissey Road in Great Barrington. Call to RSVP. 413-447-7878 x. 29. Pittsfield & Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Friday, January 10, 7-8:30pm – YOUTH DANCE: Berkshire South Regional Community Center invites youth ages 10-14yo to “The Snow Ball,” an annual semi-formal New Year’s Dance. 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA ($)
Friday, January 10, 7pm – PARENT WORKSHOP/STEM: The Great Barrington Waldorf High School presents renowned scientist, author and educator Michael D’Aleo, who will discuss “From Playing Fields to Electromagnetic Fields: Going Beyond an Object-Based World Conception.” Given current urgent educational discussions about science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), D’Aleo’s lecture is a timely look at educating for America’s future. The author of two books, Sensible Physics Teaching and Embracing Materialism and Letting it Go: An Experiential Guide to Overcoming an Object-Based World Conception, he has taught and trained physics teachers at the high school and graduate level for many years and lectures internationally on science, education and environmental issues. 413-528-4015. 35 West Plain Road. Great Barrington, MA (FREE)
Saturday, January 11, 11am-1pm – SUSTAINABILITY: Barter and swap unwanted gifts and goods at the Post Holiday Barter Market at the Mason Library. Bartering and trading are great ways to get rid unwanted things without tossing them in a landfill. Bring unwanted things to trade, and go home with something you want. Some barter ideas are canned goods, seed, plants, herbal tinctures, books, arts and crafts supplies, clothes, jewelery, and more. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, January 22, 6:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Representatives from the Greylock Federal Credit Union will present a workshop for parents on Family Finance. You will learn about avoiding security scams, online banking, credit scores, family budgeting, and how to teach your kids about money. Childcare (space limited) is available. Pre-registration is required. Takes place on CHP Campus in Administrative Offices Building. 413-464-5095. 444 Stockbridge Road. Great Barrington, MA.
Saturday, January 25, 1:30pm-2:30pm – HISTORY: Come to the Mason Library for Swords Through the Ages with Jeff Goodhind and Jeff Lord from the Association for Renaissance and Medieval Swordsmanship. Goodhind and Lord will demonstrate the art of Western European swordsmanship and how it has changed over the centuries. For ages 9 and up. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.
Sunday, January 26, 2pm – PUPPETRY/CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: The Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia will perform Leo Lionni’s Swimmy, Frederick, and Inch by Inch today at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center . The performances, appropriate for kids of all ages, incorporate puppets, imaginative lighting techniques, and an original musical score. Tickets can be purchased in advance. 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA. $$
ONGOING: Tuesdays, 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)
ONGOING: Tuesdays, 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.
ONGOING: Wednesdays, 5:30-7pm – CERAMICS/FIBER ARTS: Youth ages 14-25 are invited to the Railroad Street Youth Project’s Tight Knit Craft Night. Do you like to knit, felt, or crochet? How about ceramics? Jewelry design or glass blowing? Have you always wanted to try but never had the chance? Beginning this month, Tight Knit Craft Night will rotate between Fiber Arts & Ceramics every Wednesday. Come every week and learn them all! 60 Bridge Street. Great Barrington, MA (FREE)
ONGOING: Thursdays, 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)
ONGOING: Thursdays, 3:30pm-5pm – CHESS: Every second and fourth Thursday, kids are invited to the Mason Library for chess. There will no instruction provided, so this event is best for kids who already have an understanding of the game. This is a great place to come play with peers, make new friends, and improve your chess skills in a relaxed and supportive environment. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.
ONGOING: Fridays, 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Weekly “Skip and Dip” playgroup at Berkshire South RCC. 413-464-5095. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
ONGOING: Fridays, 10:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly fitWIC playgroup at CHP Family Services Building. 413-464-5095. 442 Stockbridge Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- Berkshire Co-op — 413-528-9697. 42 Bridge Street.
- Captain Truman Wheeler Farmstead — South Main Street.
- Great Barrington Historical Society — South Main Street.
- The Guthrie Center — 413-644-9288. 2 Van Deusenville Road.
- Great Barrington Riverwalk — Church and River Streets.
- Ski Butternut — 413-528-2000 x 273. 380 State Road.
Saturday, January 18, 10:30am-12noon – ARTS & CRAFTS: Kids 7 and up can join local clay artist and sculptor Leslie Klein for a two-week Clay Mask Workshop at Ramsdell Library. Kids can design, create, and paint their own masks to take home. Registration is required and you must attend both sessions. 413-274-3738. 1087 Main Street. Housatonic, MA.
- Project Native — 413-274-3433. 342 North Plain Road.
Wednesday, January 22, 10am-2pm – HIKING: Hike the Loop Trail and Beartown State Forest with Berkshire Natural Resources Council today! The trail features beautiful rock formations, beaver dams, and briefly connects with the Appalachian Trail. This is a fun, moderate, two-mile hike that older students and adults will enjoy. 413-499-0596. Benedict Pond Road. Monterey, MA.
- Bidwell House Museum — 413-528-6888. 100 Art School Road.
- Gould Farm — Gould Road.
ONGOING: Tuesdays, 10am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Weekly storytime at the New Marlborough Library. 413-464-5095. 1 Mill River-Great Barrington Road. New Marlborough, MA. (FREE)
- Cookson State Forest — Hotchkiss Road.
- New Marlborough Library — 413-664-0104. 1 Mill River-Great Barrington Road.
ONGOING: Mondays, 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Stop by Otis Town Hall for playgroup every Monday! 413-464-5095. 1 North Main Road. Otis, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 18, 9am-12noon – HIKING: Join the Berkshire Natural Resources Council for a hike at Clam River. The hike is three miles, on moderate terrain, and features a river, old stone walls, cellar holes, and more. Bring snowshoes if you have them. 413-499-0596. Route 57. Sandisfield, MA.
Saturday, January 4, 9am-4:30pm – HIKING: Join the Trustees of Reservations at Bartholomew’s Cobble every Saturday this winter for Hot Chocolate Saturdays, featuring outdoor activities like hiking, snowshoeing, and more. This is a great way to get outside during the cold winter months. 413-229-8600. 105 Weatogue Road. Sheffield, MA. >$
ONGOING: Tuesdays, 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.
ONGOING: Wednesdays, 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.
ONGOING: Thursdays, 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.
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