Hilltown Families 
Suggested Events for February 15th-21st, 2014
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
“My son and I attend events we learn about through Hilltown Families every week! Thanks to Hilltown Families we went to the Birds of Prey workshop at the Greenfield Center School this past weekend (even more interesting and fun than we’d anticipated); we’re finishing up our cards to send out for the Valentines Card swap tonight; we hope to attend a concert at Mount Holyoke of mbira music of Zimbabwe tomorrow evening; and we’ll decorate chocolates at All Things Local on Saturday (yum!) before heading over to the Winterfest…” – Susan M. (Amherst, 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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SUMMER CAMP
MARKET YOUR SUMMER CAMP: In an effort to connect families with summer camps & programs in the region, Hilltown Families is offering camps and programs a chance to partner with us in their online marketing with a special enhanced publicity offer. On Sunday, March 16th, 2014, Hilltown Families will be featuring camps in the region on Hilltown Families with a special post titled: 2014 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA. Find out more about our marketing package and early bird discounts HERE.
BULLETIN BOARD
Feb 17-20
February vacation at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art! Open Monday, Feb 17th! Come by the Museum for storytimes, art making, and live performances! See your friends, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Elephant and Piggie, and many others in the galleries. Plus, The Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter School presents, The Fairy’s Mistake, Feb 18th-20th at 11am & 1pm. Filled with jewels, bugs, ladies in waiting and magic, The Fairy’s Mistake is fun for the whole family! [$6 (Members $5.50). Museum Admission extra.]. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the Museum Admissions Desk or by calling 413-658-1126. www.carlemuseum.org Amherst, MA.
Feb 17-21
This school vacation, join the Springfield Museums for their “Sights and Sounds of the Rainforest” programs, February 17 – 21. Enjoy live animal demonstrations by Teaching Creatures and Rainforest Reptiles, shows by top family performers like Jungle Jim and Roger Tincknell, and a host of family activities. All this, plus the new Rainforest Adventure exhibit at the Springfield Science Museum, where kids can learn about the amazing diversity of life in rainforests, one of our planet’s most delicate resources (Recommended for ages 3-9; $5 special exhibit fee to see both Rainforest Adventure and Intent to Deceive.). For more information, visit www.springfieldmuseums.org.
Feb 17-21
KidsBestFest 2014, the annual children’s film festival, runs Monday, 2/17 through Friday, 2/21. Every day at 1 pm at Northampton’s Academy of Music Theatre, there will be YouthFilm screenings—shorts produced and directed by local youth at the beginning of their budding careers—followed by feature films, from “Matilda” and a selection of Mo Willems’ animated shorts to a coming-of-age story from Germany and an award-winning documentary about a 14-year-old who sails around the world alone. All seats $3 cash only at the door. northamptonartscouncil.org. Amherst Cinema hosts Family Week featuring “The ZigZag Kid” from the Netherlands, and the Miyazaki Children’s Festival, screening “Porco Rosso” and “Kiki’s Delivery Service.” amherstcinema.org.
Feb 19-22
The Williston Northampton School Children’s Theatre is proud to present the classic tale of Cinderella, with a dose of pop glam thanks to songs by Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift. The play features an all-female cast and will be performed in the British pantomime style, which encourages audience participation—cheer, boo, even sing—with the actors. The production runs from February 19 through February 22 at 3:30pm in the Williston Theatre. Tickets are $5 and are available at snsboxoffice.tixato.com/buy. The Williston Theatre is located in Scott Hall at 18 Payson Avenue in Easthampton. Parking is available and free of charge behind the building.
Feb 22
Sunnyside Child Care Presents: “February Fiesta!” Spend the morning singing and dancing with the Valley’s own Grammy-Nominated Mister G! “Kid-friendly, bilingual rockstar…Mister G and his guitar will surely make you feel like bailando!” – The Washington Post. Come dance, decorate a maraca, and eat pizza with your friends! Join Sunnyside on Saturday February 22nd from 10:30am-12noon at the Florence Community Center (140 Pine Street, Florence, MA). Tickets just $5 per person ($20 maximum per family). All proceeds fund the Sunnyside Scholarship Fund. www.sunnysidekids.org
Feb 22, Mar 8, Apr 12, May 31
“Stepping into the Creative Flow” is a personalized retreat that will support all of its participants to open up to a deeper sense of creative passion and life purpose. On this retreat participants will take time from their busy and hectic lives to make an internal shift: from pushing to allowing…The Retreat will be offered on four Saturdays from 10am-5pm: February 22, March 8, April 12, May 31. Choose the day that works best for you. Takes place in the DeCice Room at the Marian Center in Holyoke, MA. For more info and pre-registration, visit www.jessicafeldheim.com or call 413-250-6111.
Amherst Montessori School is now accepting applications for the 2014-2015 year. Early education from 15 months – 6 years, Elementary education for grades 1-6. Join them in their beautiful new school in South Amherst for Montessori education that supports each child’s individual development. Music, art, Spanish language lessons and immersion, outdoor play, and a rich offering of afterschool programming enrich each student’s learning. AMS is a diverse and welcoming community. To learn more, contact Laura Miller, Director of Admission, at lmiller@amherstmontessori.org, or go to www.amherstmontessori.org. Limited openings now in Toddler for immediate enrollment.
Accepting applications for fall 2014. The Bement School founded in 1925 and located in Deerfield is a co-educational junior boarding and day school serving 220 students in kindergarten through grade 9. Bement’s rich, traditional curriculum motivates and challenges students with strong academics, a renowned fine arts program, and a diverse athletic program. Students participate in athletics and fine arts every day. The pervasive atmosphere at Bement is that of a family, learning and living together. Bement actively seeks an academically diverse, international, and multi-cultural student body. For info on how to apply, financial aid, their upcoming Kindergarten Screenings, or to arrange a visit to campus, call 413-774-4209 www.bement.org.
ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your winter vacation program, afterschool class, community event, open house, audition, homeschool program, workshop, 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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LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
February 15th-21st, 2014
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, February 15th, 2014
9-10am – HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW: Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. Encore of Saturday’s broadcast airs Sunday morning from 7-8am and podcast is posted here on Hilltown Families immediately following Sunday’s broadcast. Listen to the Hilltown Family Variety Show podcasts anytime. Click here to choose from 6 years of archived show.
Saturday, February 15, TBA – WINTER CELEBRATION: North Adams’ Winter Fest is today! Head downtown for this annual festival, which features ice sculptures, a chowder cook-off, and other winter fun! 413-662-3000. Downtown. North Adams, MA.
Saturday, February 15, 8:30am & 1pm – VOLUNTEER: The Hatfield Public Library needs teen (13-17 yrs) and junior (10-12 yrs) volunteers to help set up and take down their life size Candy Land board today. Teens and tweens interested in gaining some experience volunteering and who want to help set up/take down this fun activity should call the library. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA.
Saturday, February 15, 9am-10:30am & 11am-12:30pm – LEGOS: Explore physics and engineering at the Northampton Recreation Department‘s Play-Well LEGO Workshop today at JFK Middle School. Kids will be given instructions, challenges, and competitions for which they will build LEGO creations. This is a good way to meet other kids who are interested in LEGOS and have fun being creative while engaging in engineering. For kids in grades K-2 (9am-10:30am) and kids in grades 3-5 (11am-12:30pm). Pre-registration is required. 413-587-1040. Bridge Road. Florence, MA. $
Saturday, February 15, 9am-1pm – GAMES: Play a life-size game of Candy Land at the Hatfield Public Library today! There will be a huge Candy Land game in the basement of the library, where you can stroll through the Molasses Swamp, Peppermint Forest, and Gumdrop Mountains to work your way around the board doing crafts and puzzles. This is a great opportunity for intergenerational fun and community play! 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, February 15, 9:30am-4pm – HISTORY: Celebrate President’s Day at Old Sturbridge Village! There will be plenty of fun and educational events happening for George Washington’s birthday, including toasting the memory of George Washington, learning about 19th century hairstyles, learning a 19th century dance, making a tri-corner hat, making a presidential thaumotrope, and more, in addition to the Village’s regular activities. Kids under 17 get free admission with a paying adult. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. $
Saturday, February 15, 10am-11:30am – ANIMAL STUDIES: Kids ages 5-12 can learn all about animal tracks and sign at Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary with naturalist Kevin Kopchynski. Learn about the different types of animals living at the Sanctuary and search for their tracks in the snow and mud. Kids will love this hands-on outdoor program that allows them to learn about animals and nature. Registration is required. 413-584-3009. Main Street. Hampden, MA. >$
Saturday, February 15, 10am-1pm – HIKING: Berkshire Natural Resources Council is leading an easy hike at the Berkshire South Regional Community Center, co-sponsored by the Center and the Department of Conservation and Recreation. This guided hike is easy and snowshoes are available to rent. Pre-registration and snowshoe rental requests are required at least 24 hours in advance. 413-528-2810 x31. Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, February 15, 10am-8pm – DINOSAURS: “Discover the Dinosaurs” at the MassMutal Center! This fun exhibit of moving and replica dinosaurs, plus a dino dig, dino coloring station, scavenger hunt, and more is an exciting way to learn about dinosaurs and the prehistoric environment. Kids and adults will enjoy seeing these dinosaurs and learning all about them and this fun event for the whole family. Takes place Sat-Mon. 413-787-6610. 1277 Main Street. Springfield, MA. $$
Saturday, February 15, 10:30am – CHILDREN’S CONCERT: Kids ages 4-10 and their families are invited to a Caribbean Fiesta at the Jones Library! Jose Gonzalez and Banda Criolla will perform many bilingual songs. Kids will love this fun concert! 413-259-3090. 43 Amity Street. Amherst, MA.
Saturday, February 15, 10:30am, 12:30pm, & 2:30pm – FILM: Images Cinema is screening Oscar-nominated shorts programs today. The Cinema will screen the documentary nominees (10:30am), animation nominees (12:30pm), and live action nominees (2:30pm). Don’t miss your chance to see these great short films before the Oscars! Best for older students and adults interested in film. 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street. Williamstown, MA. $
Saturday, February 15, 11am-12noon – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Nutshell Playhouse presents a special performance – Nutshellapalooza! There will be music, puppets, clowns, stories, pirates, and more! Kids of all ages are welcome to enjoy this imaginative show. Takes place at Spectrum Playhouse. 413-394-5023. 20 Franklin Street. Lee, MA. >$
Saturday, February 15, 11am-2pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Today is Family Fun Day at Amherst College’s Mead Art Museum! The theme for this event is “Feasts and Medieval Life,” and there will be a scavenger hunt for medieval-themed art, a chance to decorate a crown for yourself, a kid-friendly tour (1pm) of the museum, a reading of Aliki’s A Medieval Feast, and much more! Discover this great local museum and learn all about medieval life at this fun family-oriented event. 413-542-2335. 41 Quadrangle Drive. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, February 15, 11am-3pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The Berkshire Museum is creating a kid’s playspace in their Crane Room from 2/14-2/23. The room will be full of cardboard, fabric, tape, and more to get kids using their imaginations and being creative with a variety of different materials. “WeeMuse: 10 Days of Play” aims to give kids an opportunity to experience creative free play and have fun making, building, and playing with other museum visitors. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Saturday, February 15, 12noon-1pm – SUSTAINABILITY: Are you interested in learning about composting? The Amherst Winter Farmers’ Market is offering a workshop on composting, led by environmental science students from Amherst Regional High School. Learn about the benefits of composting, what you can compost, and why composting works. 413-259-3149. 170 Chestnut Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, February 15, 12:30pm-4:30pm – FAMILY FUN: The Northampton Recreation Department is hosting an afternoon of family fun at JFK Middle School today. Come see a fascinating birds of prey show with Tom Ricardi (12:30pm-1:30pm), play bingo (1:45pm-2:30pm), and go swimming (1:30pm-4:30pm)! This fun-filled afternoon will help beat the winter blues and gives you a chance to have some fun as a family. 413-587-1040. Bridge Road. Florence, MA. $
Saturday, February 15, 1pm-5pm – SUSTAINABILITY: Do you have broken stuff at home that you would like to fix but don’t know how? Come to the Pittsfield Repair Cafe with mendable clothing, cushions, chairs, lamps, electrical items, and more, to be fixed instead of thrown away. Enjoy a snack and drink while volunteers repair your items! Repair Cafes encourage sustainability by helping you fix what you already have, instead of buying new things and disposing of old items. Takes place in the basement of St. Stephen’s Church. 413-212-8589. 67 East Street. Pittsfield, MA.
Saturday, February 15, 1:30pm – READING: The Westfield Athenaeum is hosting a Read to Rover event for kids ages 3-9. Young readers can practice reading stories aloud to specially-trained dogs, who offer non-judgmental, non-threatening attention. This is a wonderful opportunity for kids to improve their reading skills and their confidence in reading aloud. Please register in advance. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, February 15, 2pm – FILM: Get ready for the Academy Awards at the Jones Library today! The library will be screening the best picture from 1943. Call the library for the movie title and more information. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity Street. Amherst, MA.
Saturday, February 15, 2pm & 7pm – THEATER: Ja’Duke Productions presents a performance of Peter Pan at the Shea Theater! All ages will enjoy seeing this classic story come to life onstage. Don’t miss your chance to see it live! 413-863-0001. 81 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. $$
Saturday, February 15, 2pm & 8pm – THEATER: The Great Barrington Waldorf High School presents a production of Harvey, a Pulitzer Prize-winning play written by Mary Chase in 1944. It is a comedy that tells the story of a man with an unseen/imaginary friend in the form of an anthropomorphic rabbit named Harvey. Tickets available at the door. 413-298-3800. 6 East Street. Stockbridge, MA. $$
Saturday, February 15, 2pm-3pm – JEWELRY: Tweens and teens in grades 5-12 can come have fun with Rainbow Loom at the Sunderland Public Library. Bring your own Loom and come hang out with friends while working together! Registration is required. 413-665-2642. 20 School Street. Sunderland, MA.
Saturday, February 15, 2pm-4pm – PEACE: Peace Net: Girls and Women Building Peace are holding their third community gathering today at Valley Women’s Martial Art Institute. Maria Luisa Arroyo will read poetry, Janet Aalfs will facilitate movement and meditation, and Sarah Pirtle will share information about the Peace Net project. All are welcome at this event. Please bring a notebook and pen. 413-625-2355. 1 Cottage Street, #319. Easthampton, MA. >$
Saturday, February 15, 2pm-4pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: Kids ages 12 and up can learn all about animal tracking at Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center. Learn about which animals are active in the winter, their common track patterns, and how to identify them. This is a great introduction to animal tracking for teens! Snowshoe rentals available ($). Please pre-register. 800-859-2960. 99 Millers Falls Road. Northfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, February 15, 3pm-5:30pm – MUSIC: Celebrate the life of Pete Seeger at All Souls Church today at a special sing-along. This sing-along is informal and all are welcome. Feel free to come join in, bring a guitar and strum along, or just listen. 413-773-5018. 399 Main Street. Greenfield, MA.
Saturday, February 15, 6pm-7:30pm – PARADE: Tonight is the Holyoke Winter Carnival’s Night Parade! Come see this fun parade, complete with marching bands, dance troupes, and more! Holyoke, MA.
Saturday, February 15, 6pm-8pm – DANCE: The Franklin County Father Daughter Dance is tonight at the Greenfield Moose Family Center! Dads (or other male role models, i.e. grandfathers, older brothers, uncles, etc.) and their daughters can come enjoy dancing, a snack bar, a photoshoot, and more. This is a fun way for dads and daughters to spend time together. Tickets can be purchased in advance. 20 School Street. Greenfield, MA.
Saturday, February 15, 8pm-12midnight – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Celebrate Valentine’s Day at a fundraiser dance for the LGBT Coalition of Western Massachusetts! There will be live music, dancing, cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres, all for a good cause! Proceeds support the Coalition’s youth initiatives. Takes place in the Clarion Hotel ballroom. 413-588-1018. 1 Atwood Drive. Northampton, MA. $$
Sunday, February 16th, 2014
Sunday, February 16, 7am – FISHING: The Lenox Sportmen’s Club Annual Family Fishing Derby takes place today at the Stockbridge Bowl. Come spend time with family and community members at this fun, family-oriented fishing event. 413-637-4740. Stockbridge, MA. $
Sunday, February 16, 8am-12noon – COMMUNITY MEAL: There will be a pancake breakfast today at VFW Post 8006 to benefit the VFW and Frontier Girls Troop #210. The breakfast is a great chance to spend time with community members of all ages while supporting two local groups. Tickets available in advance or at the door. 413-847-6525. 18 Meadows Street. Florence, MA. >$
Sunday, February 16, 9:30am-4pm – HISTORY: Celebrate President’s Day at Old Sturbridge Village! There will be plenty of fun and educational events happening for George Washington’s birthday, including toasting the memory of George Washington, meeting President and Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant, making a tri-corner hat, making a presidential thaumotrope, and more, in addition to the Village’s regular activities. Kids under 17 get free admission with a paying adult. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. $
Sunday, February 16, 10am-7pm – DINOSAURS: “Discover the Dinosaurs” at the MassMutal Center! This fun exhibit of moving and replica dinosaurs, plus a dino dig, dino coloring station, scavenger hunt, and more is an exciting way to learn about dinosaurs and the prehistoric environment. Kids and adults will enjoy seeing these dinosaurs and learning all about them and this fun event for the whole family. 413-787-6610. 1277 Main Street. Springfield, MA. $$
Sunday, February 16, 11:30am-1:30pm – AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY/LOCAL HISTORY: Celebrate Black History Month at the Springfield Armory at “Men of Color to Arms!: The Story of the 54th Regiment.” Guest ranger Ryan McNabb will discuss the 54th Regiment, one of the first African American units in the Civil War. After the talk, there will be a blank firing demonstration and a musical interlude of “Songs from the Soul. Learn about Civil War history during school vacation week at this event. 413-734-8551. 1 Armory Square. Springfield, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, February 16, 12noon-3pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The Berkshire Museum is creating a kid’s playspace in their Crane Room from 2/14-2/23. The room will be full of cardboard, fabric, tape, and more to get kids using their imaginations and being creative with a variety of different materials. “WeeMuse: 10 Days of Play” aims to give kids an opportunity to experience creative free play and have fun making, building, and playing with other museum visitors. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Sunday, February 16, 1pm – HISTORY: The Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History is offering a docent-led “mini tour” titled “The Duryea Motor Wagon: The First Successful Automobile,” with Arch Battista. Battista will discuss the first successful gasoline-powered horseless carriage, which traveled the streets of Springfield on September 20, 1883. Discover the history of the automobile as it relates to Springfield at this interesting event. Free with museum admission. 800-625-7738. 21 Edwards Street. Springfield, MA. $$
Sunday, February 16, 1pm-2pm – NATURE STUDIES: Families can get outdoors at Mt. Tom State Reservation on a “Noticing Nature” guided family hike. Explore the grounds and learn how animals and plants get through the winter. A great nature walk for family members of all ages! Meet at the Stone House Visitor Center. 413-534-1186. 125 Reservation Road. Holyoke, MA.
Sunday, February 16, 1:30pm-3:30pm – LEGOS: The LEGO Lady will be at the Erving Public Library today with tons and tons of LEGOs for kids to have fun with. There will also be special projects to do. 413-423-3348. 17 Moore Street. Erving, MA.
Sunday, February 16, 2pm – FILM: For their Family Week, Amherst Cinema is having a Miyazaki Children’s Festival. Today they are screening Porco Rosso(1992; rated PG), an animated film about a former World War I flying ace (who also happens to be a pig) who spends his days fighting sky bandits from his red plane. Kids and adults will will enjoy this fun movie! Dubbed in English. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. >$
Sunday, February 16, 2pm – MUSIC: As part of the Four Sundays in February series, the Academy of Music presents Mumbai in Massachusetts: An Afternoon of Classic Indian Music with Shahid Parvez Khan (sitar), Max ZT (hammered dulcimer), Aditya Kalyanpur (tabla), Jay Gandhi (flute, bansuri), and Amit Kavthekar (tabla). These talented musicians will perform an array of songs in the classical genre, each with their own unique style. Audience members will enjoy this exciting show and will love seeing these musicians play together. Tickets can purchased in advance at State Street Fruit Store, Cooper’s Corner, or Food for Thought Books. 274 Main Street. Northampton, MA. $$
Sunday, February 16, 2pm – THEATER: Ja’Duke Productions presents a performance of Peter Pan at the Shea Theater! All ages will enjoy seeing this classic story come to life onstage. Don’t miss your chance to see it live! 413-863-0001. 81 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. $$
Sunday, February 16, 2pm-4pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: Caitlin Quinn of Animal Farm Foundation, Inc. will present a talk titled “Changing Perceptions About Pit Bull Dogs” today at the Berkshire Humane Society. Pit bulls are perhaps the most widely misunderstood dog breed – they are seen as aggressive and dangerous primarily due to their size, strength, and reputation as dogs used for fighting. Quinn will discuss the reasons why pit bulls are so misunderstood and teach about the breed’s many positive traits, such as loyalty, companionship, and intelligence. This talk would be good for all dog-lovers and for those who want to learn more about this particular breed. 413-447-7878. 214 Barker Road. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, February 16, 3pm – ANIMATION: Historic Northampton’s Fast Forward Film Series presents “Alumnae Animators from the Five Colleges: A screening of six animated films.” Films by Dan Cohen, Jess Bass, Sally Cruikshank, and Emily Hubley will be presented, and Bass and Hubley will be present for a question and answer session after the screening. Come see some great animated short films by Five College alums! 413-584-6011. 46 Bridge Street. Northampton, MA.
Sunday, February 16, 4pm – ASTRONOMY:Today’s installment of the Lenox Library’s Distinguished Lecture Series is “Transits of Venus,” with Jay M. Pasachoff, Professor of Astronomy and Director of the Hopkins Observatory (Williams College). This program would be best for older students interested in astronomy. 413-637-2630. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA.
Sunday, February 16, 7pm-9:30pm – MUSIC: Celebrate the life of Pete Seeger at a community sing along at the First Congregational Church in Amherst. Come share songs, stories, and memories. All are welcome. Amherst Center. Amherst, MA.
Monday, February 17th, 2014
Monday, February 17, ALL DAY – WINTER CELEBRATION: Celebrate winter at Springfield’s 36th Fabulous February at Forest Park! Enjoy old fashioned hot dogs, sleigh rides, a high-flying frisbee dog, a birds of prey show, a magic show, and activities for kids, including a scavenger hunt, survival games, shelter building, and more. This fun celebration is a great way for families and community members to come together to celebrate winter. Forest Park. Springfield, MA.
Monday, February 17, 9am-2pm – BABYSITTING CERTIFICATION: The Children’s Study Home is offering a free American Red Cross Babysitting Certification Course for kids ages 11-15. Here kids can get the information they need to babysit safely and confidently, including how to handle emergencies, important childcare skills, and kid-friendly games. In order to become certified, you must attend both parts of this two-part class (2/17 and 2/18 9am-2pm). Please register in advance. Call to find out location. 413-302-0369. Springfield, MA. (FREE)
Monday, February 17, 9:30am-4pm – HISTORY: Celebrate President’s Day at Old Sturbridge Village! There will be plenty of fun and educational events happening for George Washington’s birthday, including toasting the memory of George Washington, hearing a presentation by John Quincy Adams, making a tri-corner hat, making a thaumotrope, and more, in addition to the Village’s regular activities. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. $
Monday, February 17, 10am-5pm – AVIATION: Visit the New England Air Museum this school vacation week for loads of fun activities relating to planes, aviation, physics, and more. The museum has simulators, cockpit tours, exhibits, and demonstrations. For school vacation week, they are offering activities for kids like glider engineering, an egg drop challenge, a LEGO race, open cockpits, and an aero modeling workshop. Please see the NEAM website for more information and the full schedule of events taking place all week. 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Road. Windsor Locks, CT. $
Monday, February 17, 10am-7pm – DINOSAURS: “Discover the Dinosaurs” at the MassMutal Center! This fun exhibit of moving and replica dinosaurs, plus a dino dig, dino coloring station, scavenger hunt, and more is an exciting way to learn about dinosaurs and the prehistoric environment. Kids and adults will enjoy seeing these dinosaurs and learning all about them and this fun event for the whole family. 413-787-6610. 1277 Main Street. Springfield, MA. $$
Monday, February 17, 11am-12noon – THEATER: The Berkshire Theatre Group presents a performance of The Emperor’s New Clothes at the Berkshire Museum for school vacation week (2/17-2/22). The play is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s story about a vain emperor who is obsessed with clothing. This comedy will delight museum visitors of all ages, making it a great family activity during school vacation week! 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Monday, February 17, 11am-3pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The Berkshire Museum is creating a kid’s playspace in their Crane Room from 2/14-2/23. The room will be full of cardboard, fabric, tape, and more to get kids using their imaginations and being creative with a variety of different materials. “WeeMuse: 10 Days of Play” aims to give kids an opportunity to experience creative free play and have fun making, building, and playing with other museum visitors. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Monday, February 17, 1pm-2:15pm – MUSIC: Students and faculty from the Berkshire Music School will perform Camille Saint-Saens’ Carnival of the Animals, a whimsical tribute to their world of animals, in the form of a fourteen movement musical suite. Family members of all ages will enjoy this humorous and fun performance. Tickets can be purchased in advance. 413-443-7171 x10. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Monday, February 17, 1pm-5pm – ART: Kids are invited to the Norman Rockwell Museum for “Fact or Fiction? Every Picture Tells a Story,” a special school vacation week workshop that runs 2/17-2/21. Kids of all ages can discover how artists like Norman Rockwell, Ruth Sanderson, and Wendell Minor tell stories in pictures. Kids will then be able to participate in hands-on workshops in which they can create their own art pieces using in mixed media. This is a great way to encourage creativity during school vacation week! Free with museum admission. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. $
Monday, February 17, 2pm – FILM: For their Family Week, Amherst Cinema is having a Miyazaki Children’s Festival. Today they are screening Kiki’s Delivery Service(1989; rated G), an animated film about a young witch who sets out on a year-long apprenticeship with her cat. Kids and adults will will enjoy this fun movie! Dubbed in English. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. >$
Monday, February 17, 5pm – STEM/FIELD TRIP: Take a trip up to Brattleboro for the Seventh Annual Domino Toppling Extravaganza at the Brattleboro Museum and Art Center. Come see this amazing domino display before it topples! 802-257-0124. 10 Vernon Street. Brattleboro, VT. >$
Monday, February 17, 7pm – BIRD STUDIES: Julie Anne Collier of Wingmasters will be at Shutesbury Elementary School tonight for a live raptor presentation! Come learn about some amazing North American birds of prey at this fun and educational presentation. 413-259-1213. 23 West Pelham Road. Shutesbury, MA
Monday, February 17, 7pm – FILM: The Williams College French Film Festival kicks off tonight at Images Cinema with a screening of Farewell My Queen(2012; rated R). The film, directed by Benoît Jacquot, is about one of Marie Antoinette’s ladies-in-waiting. This period drama offers a look into the 18th century French monarchy and the lives of those who served the king and queen. 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street. Williamstown, MA. $
Tuesday, February 18th, 2014
Tuesday, February 18, 9am-2pm – BABYSITTING CERTIFICATION: The Children’s Study Home is offering a free American Red Cross Babysitting Certification Course for kids ages 11-15. Here kids can get the information they need to babysit safely and confidently, including how to handle emergencies, important childcare skills, and kid-friendly games. In order to become certified, you must attend both parts of this two-part class (2/17 and 2/18 9am-2pm). Please register in advance. Call to find out location. 413-302-0369. Springfield, MA. (FREE)
Tuesday, February 18, 10am-12noon – CHILDREN’S MUSIC: Come hear David Grover perform at the Westfield Athenaeum! Kids of all ages will enjoy this fun, kid-oriented folk performance. Registration is required. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE)
Tuesday, February 18, 10am-5pm – AVIATION: Visit the New England Air Museum this school vacation week for loads of fun activities relating to planes, aviation, physics, and more. The museum has simulators, cockpit tours, exhibits, and demonstrations. For school vacation week, they are offering activities for kids like glider engineering, an egg drop challenge, a LEGO race, open cockpits, and an aero modeling workshop. Please see the NEAM website for more information and the full schedule of events. 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Road. Windsor Locks, CT. $
Tuesday, February 18, 10am-5pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Stop by the Hatfield Public Library for a DIY craft activity! 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA.
Tuesday, February 18, 10:30am – STORYTIME: Come to the Lanesborough Public Library for a school vacation week storytime! 413-442-0222. 83 Main Street. Lanesborough, MA.
Tuesday, February 18, 11am – OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: The whole family is invited to Hilltop Orchards for a Paintball Biathlon! Strap on your snowshoes or cross-country skis and do the orchard’s loop while shooting paintballs at targets. The loop is easy-moderate and no experience is necessary. More information is available on the Hilltop Orchards website. 800-833-6274. 508 Canaan Road. Richmond, MA. $$-$$$
Tuesday, February 18, 11am-12noon – THEATER: The Berkshire Theatre Group presents a performance of The Emperor’s New Clothes at the Berkshire Museum for school vacation week (2/17-2/22). The play is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s story about a vain emperor who is obsessed with clothing. This comedy will delight museum visitors of all ages, making it a great family activity during school vacation week! 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Tuesday, February 18, 11am-3pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The Berkshire Museum is creating a kid’s playspace in their Crane Room from 2/14-2/23. The room will be full of cardboard, fabric, tape, and more to get kids using their imaginations and being creative with a variety of different materials. “WeeMuse: 10 Days of Play” aims to give kids an opportunity to experience creative free play and have fun making, building, and playing with other museum visitors. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Tuesday, February 18, 11:30am & 1:30pm – NATURAL HISTORY: The Beneski Museum of Natural History is offering guided tours for families with children ages 5 and up this school vacation week. These tours will help museum visitors discover all the neat things the museum has to offer while learning about the natural history of the Pioneer Valley. 413-542-2165. 11 Barrett Hill Road. Amherst, MA.
Tuesday, February 18, 1pm-2:15pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: Discover the amazing lives of wolves and the many roles they play in maintaining healthy ecosystems at the Berkshire Museum today! Atka, an 11-year-old Arctic Gray Wolf from the Wolf Conservation Center, will be at the Museum to help teach about wolves. This is a rare opportunity to see this misunderstood predator up close. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$ [POSTPONED. RESCHEDULED FOR TOMORROW, 2/19]
Tuesday, February 18, 1pm-5pm – ART: Kids are invited to the Norman Rockwell Museum for “Fact or Fiction? Every Picture Tells a Story,” a special school vacation week workshop that runs 2/17-2/21. Kids of all ages can discover how artists like Norman Rockwell, Ruth Sanderson, and Wendell Minor tell stories in pictures. Kids will then be able to participate in hands-on workshops in which they can create their own art pieces using in mixed media. This is a great way to encourage creativity during school vacation week! Free with museum admission. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. $
Tuesday, February 18, 2pm – FILM: For their Family Week, Amherst Cinema is having a Miyazaki Children’s Festival. Today they are screening Porco Rosso(1992; rated PG), an animated film about a former World War I flying ace (who also happens to be a pig) who spends his days fighting sky bandits from his red plane. Kids and adults will will enjoy this fun movie! Dubbed in English. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. >$
Tuesday, February 18, 4pm – BOOK GROUP: Join The Westfield Athenaeum for a kids book discussion group on Louis Sachar’s Sideways Stories from Wayside School. Youth in grades 3-5 can come to discuss the book and play relevant games. This is a great chance for kids to do some outside-of-school reading while interacting with their peers in a discussion group. Please register in advance. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE)
Tuesday, February 18, 4pm – CHILDREN’S BOOKS: Come to the S. White Dickinson Memorial Library for a Dr. Seuss Birthday Bonanza! At 4pm, kids 10 and up can learn to draw superheroes with cartoonist Paul Merklein (call to register). Then, at 6pm, there will be a Dr. Seuss celebration show in which Merklein will combine art, comedy, and audience participation as he draws the faces of famous people and audience members. At 7:15pm, local Whately authors will read Dr. Seuss books out loud. This fun celebration full of great activities for all ages is not to be missed! 413-665-2170. 202 Chestnut Plain Road. Whately, MA.
Tuesday, February 18, 4pm-7pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Bring a white tee shirt to Dickinson Memorial Library today and have fun making a one-of-a-kind tie dye shirt! Board games, books, and crafts will be available to use while your shirt dries. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA.
Tuesday, February 18, 6:30pm – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Enjoy juggling, comedy, and magic at Hubbard Memorial Library today with LuckyBob! He will juggle fire, escape from a straight jacket, ride a unicycle, and perform other cool tricks, many of which rely on audience participation. This is a fun school vacation week performance that all ages will enjoy! 413-583-3408. 24 Center Street. Ludlow, MA.
Tuesday, February 18, 6:30pm – LITERACY: The Lenox Library is holding a community-wide reading event during the month of February, which includes relevant programs at the library each week. The book being read is The Celestials by Berkshire author Karen Shepard. The book is about the hiring of Chinese immigrants in North Adams in the 1870s. Tonight’s event is a book discussion. This book and the discussions held at the library will help teach about immigration, assimilation, and acceptance in America. Community reading events help encourage reading and discussion among all community members. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA.
10am-7pm – PIANO LESSONS: Simply Music Piano with Barbara Goodchild, 7yrs-adult. Mon-Thurs., 25-55 min. lessons. Free introductory session. 413-625-8203. Cooper Lane. Shelburne, MA ($20/lesson)
Wednesday, February 19th, 2014
Wednesday, February 19, TBA – LEGOS: The Lego Lady will be at the Erving Public Library today with tons and tons of LEGOs for kids to have fun with. There will also be special projects to do. 413-423-3348. 17 Moore Street. Erving, MA.
Wednesday, February 19, 10am-5pm – AVIATION: Visit the New England Air Museum this school vacation week for loads of fun activities relating to planes, aviation, physics, and more. The museum has simulators, cockpit tours, exhibits, and demonstrations. For school vacation week, they are offering activities for kids like glider engineering, an egg drop challenge, a LEGO race, open cockpits, and an aero modeling workshop. Please see the NEAM website for more information and the full schedule of events. 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Road. Windsor Locks, CT. $
Wednesday, February 19, 11am – GAMES: Kids in grades 6-12 can come to the Westfield Athenaeum for pizza, Wii, board games, and card games. Come hang out with friends and have fun playing games. Registration is required. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, February 19, 11am – STORYTIME: Come to Dickinson Memorial Library for a beach party storytime! Bring a beach blanket or towel and enjoy ocean-related stories, songs, and crafts. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA.
Wednesday, February 19, 11am-12noon – THEATER: The Berkshire Theatre Group presents a performance of The Emperor’s New Clothes at the Berkshire Museum for school vacation week (2/17-2/22). The play is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s story about a vain emperor who is obsessed with clothing. This comedy will delight museum visitors of all ages, making it a great family activity during school vacation week! 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Wednesday, February 19, 11am-3pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The Berkshire Museum is creating a kid’s playspace in their Crane Room from 2/14-2/23. The room will be full of cardboard, fabric, tape, and more to get kids using their imaginations and being creative with a variety of different materials. “WeeMuse: 10 Days of Play” aims to give kids an opportunity to experience creative free play and have fun making, building, and playing with other museum visitors. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Wednesday, February 19, 11:30am & 1:30pm – NATURAL HISTORY: The Beneski Museum of Natural History is offering guided tours for families with children ages 5 and up this school vacation week. These tours will help museum visitors discover all the neat things the museum has to offer while learning about the natural history of the Pioneer Valley. 413-542-2165. 11 Barrett Hill Road. Amherst, MA.
Wednesday, February 19, 1pm-2:15pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: Discover the amazing lives of wolves and the many roles they play in maintaining healthy ecosystems at the Berkshire Museum today! Atka, an 11-year-old Arctic Gray Wolf from the Wolf Conservation Center, will be at the Museum to help teach about wolves. This is a rare opportunity to see this misunderstood predator up close. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$ [RESCHEDULED FROM YESTERDAY]
Wednesday, February 19, 1pm-5pm – ART: Kids are invited to the Norman Rockwell Museum for “Fact or Fiction? Every Picture Tells a Story,” a special school vacation week workshop that runs 2/17-2/21. Kids of all ages can discover how artists like Norman Rockwell, Ruth Sanderson, and Wendell Minor tell stories in pictures. Kids will then be able to participate in hands-on workshops in which they can create their own art pieces using in mixed media. This is a great way to encourage creativity during school vacation week! Free with museum admission. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. $
Wednesday, February 19, 1:30pm – FAMILY MOVIE: Enjoy a screening of Finding Nemo(2003; rated G) at Dickinson Memorial Library today. Kids and adults of all ages will enjoy this heartwarming animated movie. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA.
Wednesday, February 19, 2pm – FILM: For their Family Week, Amherst Cinema is having a Miyazaki Children’s Festival. Today they are screening Kiki’s Delivery Service(1989; rated G), an animated film about a young witch who sets out on a year-long apprenticeship with her cat. Kids and adults will will enjoy this fun movie! Dubbed in English. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. >$
Wednesday, February 19, 2pm-3pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: Kids ages 3 and older can come to the Agawam Public Library to learn about the habitats and behaviors of unique and exotic animals. Kids will even get a chance to touch the animals! Please pre-register. 413-789-1550. 750 Cooper Street. Agawam, MA.
Wednesday, February 19, 2pm-5pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Come to the Monson Free Library to enjoy a variety of craft activities, including snap circuits, button making, Rainbow Loom, and more. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA.
Wednesday, February 19, 2:30pm-8pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Stop by the Hatfield Public Library for a DIY craft activity! 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA.
Wednesday, February 19, 3pm – LEGOS: Come have fun with LEGOs at the Lanesborough Public Library today! Spend time with other kids and improve your engineering skills by being creative with LEGOs. 413-442-0222. 83 Main Street. Lanesborough, MA.
Wednesday, February 19, 3pm – FAMILY MOVIE: Come to the S. White Dickinson Memorial Library for a screening of Despicable Me 2 (2013; rated PG). This fun movie is good for all ages. 413-665-2170. 202 Chestnut Plain Road. Whately, MA.
Wednesday, February 19, 5pm-7pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Kick off the Berkshire Museum’s WeeMuse: 10 Days of Play event at this fun Community Night! Along with their partner, Pop-Up Adventure Play, the Museum will offer loads of fun activities and opportunities for creative free play! There will be a giant shadow puppet screen, an instrument petting zoo, marble tracks, and more. This event is free and open to the community. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, February 19, 6:30pm-7:45pm – GAMES: Teens in grades 7-12 can come to the Agawam Public Library for Teen-Glo, an evening full of glowing games like frisbee, bowling, and musical chairs. The program is sponsored by the YMCA and the Let’s Move Program. Please pre-register. 413-789-1550. 750 Cooper Street. Agawam, MA.
Wednesday, February 19, 7pm – SPORTS: The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to the MassMutual Center! This family-friendly show features basketball, fan participation, and tons of laughs. The team will introduce rules for fans to vote on to make the game a little more interesting. Kids and adults of all ages will enjoy this entertaining show. Tickets can be purchased in advance. 413-787-6610. 1277 Main Street. Springfield, MA. $$-$$$
Thursday, February 20th, 2014
Thursday, February 20, TBA – LEGOS: The LEGO Lady will be at the Erving Public Library today with tons and tons of Legos for kids to have fun with. There will also be special projects to do. 413-423-3348. 17 Moore Street. Erving, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 10am-12noon – ICE SKATING: Fitzpatrick Skating Rink and the Department of Conservation and Recreation are hosting an adaptive skating event for people of all ages and abilities. You can use your wheelchair, an ice sled, or conventional skates and have fun playing games on ice with others. This is a great way to get out on the rink and make new friends! Please sign up in advance. 413-545-5758. 575 Maple Street. Holyoke, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 10am-5pm – AVIATION: Visit the New England Air Museum this school vacation week for loads of fun activities relating to planes, aviation, physics, and more. The museum has simulators, cockpit tours, exhibits, and demonstrations. For school vacation week, they are offering activities for kids like glider engineering, an egg drop challenge, a LEGO race, open cockpits, and an aero modeling workshop. Please see the NEAM website for more information and the full schedule of events. 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Road. Windsor Locks, CT. $
Thursday, February 20, 10am-5pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Stop by the Hatfield Public Library for a DIY craft activity! 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 10:30am – STORYTIME/ARTS & CRAFTS: Kids 3 and up can come to the Hubbard Memorial Library for a storytime and craft to go along with Judith Byron Schachner’s Skippyjon Jones stories. 413-583-3408. 24 Center Street. Ludlow, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 11am-12noon – THEATER: The Berkshire Theatre Group presents a performance of The Emperor’s New Clothes at the Berkshire Museum for school vacation week (2/17-2/22). The play is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s story about a vain emperor who is obsessed with clothing. This comedy will delight museum visitors of all ages, making it a great family activity during school vacation week! 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Thursday, February 20, 11am-3pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The Berkshire Museum is creating a kid’s playspace in their Crane Room from 2/14-2/23. The room will be full of cardboard, fabric, tape, and more to get kids using their imaginations and being creative with a variety of different materials. “WeeMuse: 10 Days of Play” aims to give kids an opportunity to experience creative free play and have fun making, building, and playing with other museum visitors. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Thursday, February 20, 11:30am & 1:30pm – NATURAL HISTORY: The Beneski Museum of Natural History is offering guided tours for families with children ages 5 and up this school vacation week. These tours will help museum visitors discover all the neat things the museum has to offer while learning about the natural history of the Pioneer Valley. 413-542-2165. 11 Barrett Hill Road. Amherst, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 1pm – CONCERT: Come to the Berkshire Athenaeum for a fun performance by Scott Kepnes! Kepnes will play fun and funky rock music that all ages will enjoy. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 1pm-3pm – MUSIC: Students and faculty from the Berkshire Music School will perform Camille Saint-Saens’ Carnival of the Animals, a whimsical tribute to their world of animals, in the form of a fourteen movement musical suite. Family members of all ages will enjoy this humorous and fun performance. Tickets can be purchased in advance. 413-443-7171 x10. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Thursday, February 20, 1pm-5pm – ART: Kids are invited to the Norman Rockwell Museum for “Fact or Fiction? Every Picture Tells a Story,” a special school vacation week workshop that runs 2/17-2/21. Kids of all ages can discover how artists like Norman Rockwell, Ruth Sanderson, and Wendell Minor tell stories in pictures. Kids will then be able to participate in hands-on workshops in which they can create their own art pieces using in mixed media. This is a great way to encourage creativity during school vacation week! Free with museum admission. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. $
Thursday, February 20, 2pm – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Ed Popielarczyk will perform his Magical Moments show at the Chicopee Public Library today. The show features magic, jokes, and more, and kids of all ages will enjoy the fun performance. 413-594-1800. 449 Front Street. Chicopee, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 2pm – FILM: For their Family Week, Amherst Cinema is having a Miyazaki Children’s Festival. Today they are screening Kiki’s Delivery Service(1989; rated G), an animated film about a young witch who sets out on a year-long apprenticeship with her cat. Kids and adults will will enjoy this fun movie! Dubbed in English. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. >$
Thursday, February 20, 2pm-4pm – ENGINEERING: Come meet the Agawam Robotics Team at the Agawam Public Library today! The team is made up of students in grades 2-12, and they will be at the library to show and tell about their robots. Kids interested in robotics will love this event! 413-789-1550. 750 Cooper Street. Agawam, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 3pm – CRAFTS: Make creative bracelets for family, friends, or yourself at the Lanesborough Public Library today at their loom bands event for kids. 413-442-0222. 83 Main Street. Lanesborough, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 3pm-4pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Come to the Gaylord Memorial Library for a fun winter craft activity! Kids ages 5 and up can come make some sparkling snowflakes to celebrate winter. 413-538-5047. 47 College Street. South Hadley, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 3:30-5pm – CRAFTS/CHINESE NEW YEAR : Celebrate the end of the Chinese New Year at the Greenfield Library! Children ages 7+ are invited to join Lori & Stephan Gordan for an interactive craft activity to make Chinese Lanterns. Ask the group leaders what is the origin of the Chinese lantern and how they are used in modern days. Are they just decorational or functional. A fun time to be creative and curious at the library! While you’re there, check out some books to help you celebrate the year of the Wood Horse. Check out our post, Three Picture Books for the Year of the Horse for recommendations. 413-772-1544 x5. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, February 20, 3:30pm-6pm – DANCE: The Salasin Center is holding a fun family dance party today at RPX! Bring the whole family and come have fun dancing the afternoon away! 413-774-4307. 1 Osgood Street. Greenfield, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 4pm-5pm – BOOK GROUP: The Mason Library‘s Massachusetts Children’s Book Award Nominees book group meets today. Come discuss and do fun activities related to the books. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 6pm-7:30pm – GAMES: Kids ages 8-12 can come to the Agawam Public Library for Glo-Games, an evening full of glowing games like Twister and frisbee. The program is sponsored by the YMCA and the Let’s Move Program. Please pre-register. 413-789-1550. 750 Cooper Street. Agawam, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 7pm – LITERACY: The Lenox Library is holding a community-wide reading event during the month of February, which includes relevant programs at the library each week. The book being read is The Celestials by Berkshire author Karen Shepard. The book is about the hiring of Chinese immigrants in North Adams in the 1870s. Tonight’s event is a slideshow on minority groups in Lenox history. This book and the discussions held at the library will help teach about immigration, assimilation, and acceptance in America. Community reading events help encourage reading and discussion among all community members. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA.
Thursday, February 20, 7pm – SPORTS: The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to the MassMutual Center! This family-friendly show features basketball, fan participation, and tons of laughs. The team will introduce rules for fans to vote on to make the game a little more interesting. Kids and adults of all ages will enjoy this entertaining show. Tickets can be purchased in advance. 413-787-6610. 1277 Main Street. Springfield, MA. $$-$$$
Friday, February 21st, 2014
Friday, February 21, 10am-10:50am – ICE SKATING: The West Springfield Park and Recreation Department is holding a Free Family Skate at Amelia Park Ice Arena today. West Springfield families can come pick up a voucher at the Park and Rec office anytime prior to the event. Bring your own skates or rent a pair for $2. More information here. 413-263-3284. 21 South Broad Street. Westfield, MA. >$
Friday, February 21, 10am-5pm – AVIATION: Visit the New England Air Museum this school vacation week for loads of fun activities relating to planes, aviation, physics, and more. The museum has simulators, cockpit tours, exhibits, and demonstrations. For school vacation week, they are offering activities for kids like glider engineering, an egg drop challenge, a LEGO race, open cockpits, and an aero modeling workshop. Please see the NEAM website for more information and the full schedule of events. 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Road. Windsor Locks, CT. $
Friday, February 21, 10:30am – STORYTIME/ARTS & CRAFTS: Come to the Gaylord Memorial Library for a story and craft. Read C. Rodger Mader’s new book Lost Cat and paint with finger paints, brushes, tempera, and golf balls. 413-538-5047. 47 College Street. South Hadley, MA.
Friday, February 21, 10:30am-11:30am – PARENT WORKSHOP: The Family Place and the Family Resource Center are hosting a workshop for parents titled, “Dollar ‘Cents’: Learning to Stretch Your Dollar.” The workshop focuses on cooking meals on a budget, and will teach you new recipes and the best ways to have fun cooking healthy food on a budget. Please call before 2/14 if you need childcare. 413-664-4821. 61 Main Street. North Adams, MA.
Friday, February 21, 11am-12noon – THEATER: The Berkshire Theatre Group presents a performance of The Emperor’s New Clothes at the Berkshire Museum for school vacation week (2/17-2/22). The play is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s story about a vain emperor who is obsessed with clothing. This comedy will delight museum visitors of all ages, making it a great family activity during school vacation week! 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Friday, February 21, 11am-3pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The Berkshire Museum is creating a kid’s playspace in their Crane Room from 2/14-2/23. The room will be full of cardboard, fabric, tape, and more to get kids using their imaginations and being creative with a variety of different materials. “WeeMuse: 10 Days of Play” aims to give kids an opportunity to experience creative free play and have fun making, building, and playing with other museum visitors. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Friday, February 21, 11:30am & 1:30pm – NATURAL HISTORY: The Beneski Museum of Natural History is offering guided tours for families with children ages 5 and up this school vacation week. These tours will help museum visitors discover all the neat things the museum has to offer while learning about the natural history of the Pioneer Valley. 413-542-2165. 11 Barrett Hill Road. Amherst, MA.
Friday, February 21, 1pm – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Ed Popielarczyk will perform at the Holyoke Public Library today for kids of all ages! This comedy magic show features fun tricks, funny jokes, and audience participation. 413-420-8101. 250 Chestnut Street. Holyoke, MA.
Friday, February 21, 1pm-5pm – ART: Kids are invited to the Norman Rockwell Museum for “Fact or Fiction? Every Picture Tells a Story,” a special school vacation week workshop that runs 2/17-2/21. Kids of all ages can discover how artists like Norman Rockwell, Ruth Sanderson, and Wendell Minor tell stories in pictures. Kids will then be able to participate in hands-on workshops in which they can create their own art pieces using in mixed media. This is a great way to encourage creativity during school vacation week! Free with museum admission. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. $
Friday, February 21, 1:30pm – FAMILY MOVIE: Enjoy a screening of Despicable Me(2010; rated PG) at Dickinson Memorial Library today. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA.
Friday, February 21, 2pm – PERFORMANCE: Do something fun this school vacation week and go see DiNO-Light at the Colonial Theatre! DiNO-Light, by Lightwire Theater, is a unique and lively performance told using electroluminescent creatures. DiNO-Light blends puppetry, technology, and dance to tell an exciting and original tale about dinosaurs. Tickets can be purchased in advance. 413-997-4444. 111 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Friday, February 21, 2pm – FILM: For their Family Week, Amherst Cinema is having a Miyazaki Children’s Festival. Today they are screening Porco Rosso(1992; rated PG), an animated film about a former World War I flying ace (who also happens to be a pig) who spends his days fighting sky bandits from his red plane. Kids and adults will will enjoy this fun movie! Dubbed in English. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. >$
Friday, February 21, 3pm-4pm – KNITTING: The Gaylord Memorial Library is holding a Parent and Child Learn to Knit event today! You and your child (age 5 and up) can come to the library and spend time with one another learning the basics of knitting. Registration is required. 413-538-5047. 47 College Street. South Hadley, MA.
Friday, February 21, 3:30pm-4:30pm – LEGOS: Berkshire South Regional Community Center has a drop-in Lego group for ages 5 and up. Come to the Community Center and have fun building with Legos! 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. >$
Friday, February 21, 3:30pm-4:30pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Kids 10 and up are invited to the Forbes Library for Mod Podge Mania! Come make crafts and bring items you would like to collage and Mod Podge! Please register in advance. 413-587-1010. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA.
Friday, February 21, 5pm-8pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Stop by the Hatfield Public Library for a DIY craft activity! 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA.
Friday, February 21, 6:15pm – ASTRONOMY: The Mason Library is offering an indoor-outdoor astronomy program with Rick Costello. Costello will bring several large telescopes for planet gazing and learning about light speed, supernovas, dwarf stars, and more. Older students interested in astronomy would enjoy this event. Please pre-register. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.
Thursday, February 21, 7pm – STEM: The UMass Department of Chemistry and the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education Institute are holding a chemistry demonstration night to display the wonders of chemistry and chemical reactions. There will be exciting explosions, colorful reactions, and much more! Come see how cool chemistry is at this fun event! Takes place in the Integrated Science Building, Room 135. Email rkittilstved@chem.umass.edu to sign up. 661 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA.
Friday, February 21, 7pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Support Holyoke Public Schools at a special evening featuring dinner and a performance by Boston’s Improv Asylum. There will be dinner and cocktails at 7pm, followed by Improv Asylum’s performance at 9pm. This is a great chance to see this group close to home while supporting Holyoke’s Public Schools. Takes place at the Log Cabin. Tickets must be purchased in advance. 413-535-5077. 500 Easthampton Road. Holyoke, MA. $$$
Hilltown Families’ list of Weekly Suggested Events is supported in part by a grant from the Agawam, Buckland, Cummington, Deerfield, Goshen, Plainfield, Shelburne and Westhampton Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
