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

If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.

Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families… help us help you! Click HERE to find out more.

SUMMER CAMPS IN WESTERN MA

“Hilltown Families continues to be my go-to place for family events. I really appreciated the organized list of summer camps!”

Over 50 Summer Camps to choose from! Now is the time to start signing up for summer camp! Check out our featured post, 2014 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a comprehensive list of over 50 summer camps & programs in the region! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans! — Do you have a summer camp or program you’d like to have included in our comprehensive list? Find out how you can submit your listing HERE.

BULLETIN BOARD

May 24

May 24 at The Carle: Meet Eric Carle and Dance with Mister G! Enjoy a special day at The Carle on Saturday, May 24 in Amherst, MA, with a book signing with Eric Carle and a performance by Mister G! Meet the beloved children’s book author and illustrator and celebrate 45 years of The Very Hungry Caterpillar at 10am. Become a Member and enter at 9am! Then, enjoy a must-see performance by award-winning artist Mister G, who was recently named by People Magazine as one of the “Best Live Acts for Kids and Families.” Performances begin at 1pm and 3pm and are $8. For book signing guidelines and event details, visit www.carlemuseum.org.

Jun 23-Aug 15

The Bement School offers summer programs for children from 4 to 15 years old. Children have the opportunity to enjoy the fun of a traditional day camp and help create their own schedule by choosing from our wide range of unique activities. The Junior Camp provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for our youngest campers. The Adventure Day Camp offers activity choices that include Chinese, cooking, rocketry, sports, nature, arts and crafts, and swimming. The Counselor-in-Training program gives young teenagers experience working with children and developing valuable job skills while still enjoying the fun of summer camp. Summer programs run from June 23 to August 15. Visit their website or email summer@bement.org for more information!

The Common School in Amherst, MA, has openings in the Nursery Program! Children age 3 to 5 are brimming with wonder and curiosity. Hands-on investigation is at the core of the program. What young child doesn’t love digging, pouring, drawing, cooking, singing, building, and painting? Science, math, art, and language are integrated into each day’s activities. And with their teachers’ help, their sense of wonder leads them to love learning. With a 6:1 ratio in the classroom, teachers are able to nurture the social and emotional growth of each child. For more information visit online at www.commonschool.org or call 413-256-8989.

Sweet Roots Gardens offers kids yoga programs, a kids CSA program and garden installation services. Learn and play in the garden this season! Big Kids Yoga at Second Chances, Fridays May 23- June 13 (sign up for single sessions or all 4). Children learn body awareness, mindful breathing and have fun through movement. Kids CSA at Sweet Roots Gardens in South Deerfield, July 8-August 5. Engaging garden and art activities for little ones and a snack share of veggies to take home.  Free art activities for kids at Sweet Roots stand at Wednesday Kendrick Park farmers market in Amherst, 2-6. Sweet Roots also provides help with your home garden too! Grow a garden with your children this season and get the help you need to continue on your own. Contact saracoblyn@gmail.com; www.sweetrootsgardens.com.

Through May 26

Joyful learning starts with Oak Meadow! Save from Mother’s Day to Memorial Day. Enjoy 15% off Oak Meadow’s engaging, experiential homeschooling curriculum for kindergarten to grade 12, and 5% off enrollment in their fully accredited distance learning school. Oak Meadow helps you set a natural rhythm of learning for your family through their creative and challenging curriculum. Their compassionate, child-centered approach encourages critical thinking and intellectual development through hands-on activities, interdisciplinary projects, and thoughtful reading and writing practice. This May treat Mom to great savings, and treat the family to a great home learning experience! Offer runs through May 26.

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

JOIN OUR TEAM OF CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Interested in becoming a Contributing or Guest Writer for Hilltown Families? We welcome writings that reflect the community building and educational efforts parents, teens, teachers, artists, activists and community leaders work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families. All writing styles welcomed, including local reviews, DIY posts, seasonal cooking/local food, and community-based educational & community service learning opportunities/resources. Send your query to hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.

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LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
May 24th-30th, 2014

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

Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets

Events Happening in the Hilltowns | ♦ On-going Events

Saturday, May 24th, 2014

9-10am – HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW: Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org.  David Grover is our Guest DJ with a History through Stories & Songs Episode. David puts together an eclectic mix of favorite folk songwriters and singers that highlights the history of our country. 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 7 years!

Saturday, May 24, 7am-6pm – FAIR/AGRICULTURE/FIBER ARTS: The Massachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair takes place at the Cummington Fairgrounds on May 24 and 25. There will be demonstrations, hands-on activities, exhibits, animal shows/trials, food, and more. All ages will enjoy seeing the animals and learning about wool, how it is obtained, and the many ways it can be used. 97 Fairgrounds Road. Cummington, MA. >$

Saturday, May 24, 9am-12noon – PLANT SALE: Join the Leverett Historical Society for their annual plant sale at Town Hall! Come by to find great plants for your garden and to learn about plant care and get advice from master gardener Dawn Marvin Ward. Plant sales are a great way to get kids interested in gardening – have your child pick out a plant for the garden. They will love caring for it, learning about it, and watching it grow! Call Dawn for more info on donating plants or books, or for info on helping out. 413-367-9562. 9 Montague Road. Leverett, MA. (FUNDRAISER)

Saturday, May 24, 9am-3pm – COMMUNITY SERVICE: Help clear the Keystone Arch Bridge Trail of invasive Norway maples at a work day on May 24. Older students who are interested in nature and conservation can learn about invasive species and how to identify Norway maples, and can participate in a project that helps the community. Email walkinthewatershed@hotmail.com or call to sign up. Meet at Chester Railroad Station. 413-623-2070. Chester, MA. (VOLUNTEERING)

Saturday, May 24, 9:30am-5pm – HISTORY: Learn about sheep shearing and the many uses for wool at Old Sturbridge Village’s Wool Days, May 24, 25, and 26. Families can see a herding demonstration, watch the sheep get their annual shearing, and watch costumed historians go through the process of preparing wool to be used as a textile. You can even dye your own yarn, knit or crochet scarves for deployed soldiers, meet animals, and learn about wool from llamas and alpacas. This fun event can teach kids and adults of all ages about each stage of wool production. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. $$

Saturday, May 24,10am – AUTHOR SIGNING: Meet the beloved children’s book author and illustrator, Eric Carle, and celebrate 45 years of The Very Hungry Caterpillar at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-658-1126. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. $

Saturday, May 24, 10am – CULINARY ARTS: Kids Can Cook! Asparagus & Israeli Couscous Salad at Berkshire Co-op. May is asparagus season and the Co-op will be celebrating by making a delicious asparagus and Israeli Cous Cous salad complete with a zesty dressing. Learn how to cook and with this delicious spring vegetable! Please sign up at the front desk to attend or call. 413-528-9697. 42 Bridge Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, May 24, 10am – FAIR: The Littleville Fair is coming up in just a few months, and you can get excited about it at their stone boat truck pull and ox draw on May 24. There will also be food for sale and crafters displaying their work. Call Cathie for more information. 413-667-3279. Chester, MA.

Saturday, May 24, 10am-12noon – VERNAL POOLS: Join the Dickinson Memorial Library in exploring a local vernal pool as part of their Northfield’s Woodlands series of programs. Search for salamanders, frogs, tadpoles, and more, and learn about these interesting creatures and why they live in vernal pools. Pre-registration is required. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, May 24, 10am-12noon – SWORDS: Phoenix Swords will demonstrate the history of swordsmanship at the Indian Orchard Branch Library! Come see long swords, daggers, lances, and more, enjoy descriptions of fighting, and ask questions. Phoenix Swords focuses on historical sword techniques in Europe from 1300-1700. Teens interested in swords and history will enjoy this program. 413-263-6846. 44 Oak Street. Indian Orchard, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, May 24, 10am-2pm – NATURE STUDIES: Discover the amazing world of turtles and other pond creatures at a special Turtle and Field Day at Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary. All ages can go on a natural history walk, explore the Sanctuary’s trails, and search for turtles, frogs, and more in the pond. Christine Palmer Lowrance, author of Nature’s Ambassador: The Legacy of Thornton W. Burgess will be at the event to sign books and talk about Burgess, an acclaimed naturalist and children’s book author from Springfield. Children’s book- and nature-lovers of all ages will enjoy this fun and informative program on natural history, animals, nature, and children’s books. 413-584-3009. Main Street. Hampden, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, May 24, 10am-4pm – HISTORY/CULINARY ARTS: Experience life in an early New England kitchen at Historic Deerfield‘s Open Hearth Cooking demonstrations! Learn about preserved foods and the meaning of the term “bottom of the barrel.” These cooking demonstrations allow visitors of all ages to see what life was like in the past and the types of chores and activities they would do had they lived several hundred years ago! Free with admission. 413-774-5581. 84B Old Main Street. Deerfield, MA. $

Saturday, May 24, 11am – STORYTIME: Kids ages 3 and up can meet Mother Goose and learn all about famous fairy tale characters at the West Springfield Public Library. 413-736-4561 x3. 511 Main Street. West Springfield, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, May 24, 11am-12noon – STEM: Preschool children and their families can come to the Griswold Memorial Library to participate in a STEM Sprouts Workshop. This workshop features fun and engaging activities that promote learning in science, technology, engineering, and math. Kids will have a blast examining bugs, playing with water, studying sounds and smells, using magnifying glasses, and more! Please call to register. 413-625-6194. 12 Main Road. Colrain, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, May 24, 12noon – CARNIVAL: The Amherst Rotary Club’s carnival runs from May 21-May 24 on the Amherst Town Common! Come by for fun and games for the whole family. Amherst, MA. (FREE ENTRANCE/TICKETS $)

Saturday, May 24, 12noon – THEATER/ACTIVISM: Hartsbrook High School students are leading a march from Whole Foods in Hadley to Kendrick Park in Amherst as part of the March Against Monsanto, a worldwide protest against the corporation and their GMO products. At the end of the march, there will be a rally and performance by the Hartsbrook students titled, “Who’s Afraid of the Corn Worm?” The performance, in collaboration with PachaMama Puppet Productions, is about the ways fields, plants, and insects are affected by people and corporations. Those who are interested in theater, puppets, agriculture, local food, and activism will enjoy both the march and the performance. Hadley/Amherst, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, May 24, 1pm & 3pm – FAMILY CONCERT: Mister G is performing live at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art on May 24! Come hear him play classic songs, as well as newer ones from his latest album, ABC Fiesta. Kids and adults will enjoy this fun live concert experience! Tickets are available in advance. 413-658-1126. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. $

Saturday, May 24, 1:30pm-2:30pm – SWORDS: Phoenix Swords will demonstrate the history of swordsmanship at the East Springfield Branch Library! Come see long swords, daggers, lances, and more, enjoy descriptions of fighting, and ask questions. Phoenix Swords focuses on historical sword techniques in Europe from 1300-1700. Teens interested in swords and history will enjoy this program. 413-263-6840. 21 Osborne Terrace. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, May 24, 2pm – LOCAL HISTORY: The : Celebrate the 15th year of MASS MoCA at a special event that features live music, a silent auction, great food, and more. This a fun, unique event that features many activities in one – see Teresita Fernández’s exhibition As Above So Below, hear music by DJ Rekha and Red Baraat, and enjoy food from delicious food trucks. There will also be pop-up performances. Tickets are available in advance. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. $$$

Saturday, May 24, 7:30pm: BALLET: East Street Ballet presents Spring Showcase 2014 at the Bowker Auditorium, UMASS. The performances will include a mixed repertory program featuring excerpts from Swan Lake, arranged by Carlos Molina, and original works by Carlos Molina, George Birkadze, Claire Maurey, and Tekla Kostek as performed by the East Street Ballet dancers. 413-584-5535. Bowker Auditorium. Amherst, MA ($$)

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Sunday, May 25th, 2014

7-8am – FAMILY RADIO: Valley Free Radio (WXOJ-LP 103.3FM Northampton, MA) airs encores the Hilltown Family Variety Show every Sunday morning. commercial-free family radio. Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. Listen to the Hilltown Family Variety Show podcast anytime. Click here to see 7 years of archived shows.

Sunday, May 25, 6:30am-4pm – FAIR/AGRICULTURE/FIBER ARTS: The Massachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair takes place at the Cummington Fairgrounds on May 24 and 25. There will be demonstrations, hands-on activities, exhibits, animal shows/trials, food, and more. All ages will enjoy seeing the animals and learning about wool, how it is obtained, and the many ways it can be used. 97 Fairgrounds Road. Cummington, MA. >$

Sunday, May 25, 9am-5pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: During the spring, anadromous fish (those who live in rivers but spawn in the ocean) make their way to their Atlantic breeding grounds – watch them make their way down the Connecticut River at the Turners Falls Fishway! The fishway offers kids a chance to see directly into the river through a special viewing window, an experience that can serve as the foundation for building an understanding of the life cycle of fish and/or river ecosystems. The Fishway is open Wednesday-Sunday through June 15. 800-859-2960. First Street. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

Sunday, May 25, 9:30am-5pm – HISTORY: Learn about sheep shearing and the many uses for wool at Old Sturbridge Village’s Wool Days, May 24, 25, and 26. Families can see a herding demonstration, watch the sheep get their annual shearing, and watch costumed historians go through the process of preparing wool to be used as a textile. You can even dye your own yarn, knit or crochet scarves for deployed soldiers, meet animals, and learn about wool from llamas and alpacas. This fun event can teach kids and adults of all ages about each stage of wool production. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. $$

Sunday, May 25, 10am-12noon – HISTORY: Learn about the roles, relationships, living conditions, and working expectations of the 20 servants who staffed The Mount and its property each summer on a Backstairs Tour. Those who are interested in history and want to know more about class dynamics in the late 1800s and early 1900s will enjoy this tour. 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. $$

Sunday, May 25, 9am-12pm & 2-4pm- HISTORY: View the Hatfield Historical Society‘s new exhibit, The Things They Left Us: A Glimpse Into Civil War Life for Hatfield Men and Boys on May 25 during the town’s Memorial Day celebrations. Representatives from the 15th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry will be at the museum with a multi-tent Union soldier encampment and will perform drilling exercises on the lawn. Families can view the exhibit and watch the reenactors in order to learn about the soldiers’ living conditions during the Civil War, see how they cleaned their guns, and discover what life was like for soldiers from Hatfield. The exhibit features diary excerpts, photographs, a Confederate tourniquet, and more. All ages can discover what life was like during the Civil War at this special Memorial Day event. You can even try Civil War foods like hardtack and Johnny Cake! 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE)

Sunday, May 25, 12noon – COMMUNITY MEAL/PARADE: Celebrate Memorial Day and enjoy an intergenerational meal with your fellow community members at the Hadley Memorial Day Parade Picnic! Bring food to share and enjoy grilled foods made on the Town Common, then watch the parade at 2pm. All ages will have a great time hanging out at this community-centered event. Hadley, MA.

Sunday, May 25, 1pm – CULTURAL STUDIES: The Springfield Museums are offering a docent-led “mini-tour” by Dave Carlson titled, “Architecture in and Around the Quadrangle.” Older students will enjoy learning about the interesting architectural details of the Springfield Museums complex. 800-625-7738. 21 Edwards Street. Springfield, MA. $$

Sunday, May 25, 1pm-3pm – PLANT STUDIES: Discover wild plants and their uses as food, medicine, handicrafts, and more on a plant walk in Amethyst Brook Conservation Area. You will learn how to ethically harvest these plants and prepare them for use. Kids and adults alike will enjoy learning about the practical uses of many common plants. Adult cost is sliding scale and kids can attend for free. Please email wearewildfood@gmail.com ASAP to register. West Pelham Road. Amherst, MA. (SLIDING SCALE >$-$)

Sunday, May 25, 2pm-4pm – HISTORY/AFRICAN-AMERICAN STUDIES: Celebrate the legacy of Sojourner Truth, learn about her life and activism, and recognize two local high school students who will be receiving the Sojourner Truth Scholarship for Social Justice at the 12th Annual Sojourner Truth Celebration. This event features addresses by the scholarship recipients, a performance by local musician Deja Carr, and a keynote address by Dr. Amilcar Shabazz, a professor in the W.E.B. Du Bois Department of Afro-American Studies at UMass Amherst. There will be a walking tour of Sojourner Truth’s Florence (12:30pm) before the celebration. Older students interested in history, social justice, and activism would benefit from attending this event. Park Street & Pine Street. Florence, MA. (FREE)

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Monday, May 26th, 2014

Happy Memorial Day!

Monday, May 26, TBA – PARADE: The Ashfield Memorial Day Parade takes place on May 26! Come watch and celebrate our veterans. Kids can even be a part of the parade by marching with Belding Memorial Library! Dress up as a favorite book or movie character and ride on the library’s float. Call the library or stop by for more info. 413-628-4414. Ashfield, MA. (FREE)

Monday, May 26, 8am – PARADE: The annual Lenox Dale Memorial Day Parade is on May 26, and begins at Veterans Memorial Park (Walker Street) and proceeds to St. Vincent dePaul Church, where there will be a service to commemorate and thank our veterans. The parade then continues back to Veterans Memorial Park, where concluding services will be held. Lenox, MA. (FREE)

Monday, May 26, 8am-2pm – CRAFT FAIR: The Hampden Federated Church is holding a big craft fair this Memorial Day! Come by for local crafts and goods – this is a great place to find gifts for family and friends of all ages. 413-566-3711. 590 Main Street. Hampden, MA. (SALE)

Monday, May 26, 9:30am-11:30am – PARADE: Celebrate Memorial Day at the Town of Amherst’s annual Memorial Day parade and ceremony! There will be an invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, guest speaker, music, and readings. The parade goes from North Common (South Pleasant Street) to the War Memorial (21 Mattoon Street). Amherst, MA. (FREE)

Monday, May 26, 9:30am-5pm – HISTORY: Learn about sheep shearing and the many uses for wool at Old Sturbridge Village’s Wool Days, May 24, 25, and 26. Families can see a herding demonstration, watch the sheep get their annual shearing, and watch costumed historians go through the process of preparing wool to be used as a textile. You can even dye your own yarn, knit or crochet scarves for deployed soldiers, meet animals, and learn about wool from llamas and alpacas. This fun event can teach kids and adults of all ages about each stage of wool production. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. $$

Monday, May 26, 10am – PARADE: The Westfield Memorial Day Parade is on May 26, and features community members and local groups/organizations marching from North Elm Street to Parker Memorial Park, where a ceremony will follow the parade. More information on the parade and route can be found on the City of Westfield’s website. Westfield, MA. (FREE)

Monday, May 26, 11am-4pm – MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION: Honor, remember, and celebrate veterans at Springfield’s Celebration of Heroes. There will be a Veteran’s Memorial Rededication (11am), followed by the Celebration of Heroes (12noon-4pm), which includes live music, food, and entertainment. Proceeds benefit Friends of Ward 8 and Friends of the Springfield Vet Center. Takes place at Smith and Wesson. 2100 Roosevelt Avenue. Springfield, MA. (FREE)

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Tuesday, May 27th, 2014

Tuesday, May 27, 9:30am-11am & 6:30pm-8pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: The Agawam Public Schools are hosting a parent cafe on finding summer activities for families on a budget and helping children adjust to the summer schedule. Childcare is available at the morning session only. Morning session takes place at Agawam Congregational Church (745 Main Street) and evening session takes place at Agawam Senior Center (954 Main Street). 413-821-0552. Agawam, MA. (FREE)

Tuesday, May 27, 3:45pm – LEGOS: Kids ages 9 and up can have fun creating with LEGOs at the West Springfield Public Library. Come practice your building skills at this fun event. 413-736-4561 x3. 511 Main Street. West Springfield, MA. (FREE)

Tuesday, May 27, 7pm-8:30pm – PLANT STUDIES: Learn all about edible weeds at the Westhampton Public Library on May 27! Discover which common weeds can be eaten and how to transform your yard or garden into an edible landscape. Older students interested in gardening and plants will enjoy this talk. 413-527-5386. 1 North Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE)

ONGOING FOR TUESDAYS (Always double check events before heading out. To add your ongoing event/activity here, email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com)

• 9am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Amherst Family Center has drop-in playgroups Monday-Friday, including snacks, circle time, activities, and more. 413-256-1145. 1200 North Pleasant Street. North Amherst, MA
• 9:30am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: The CHP Family Center is holding a “Toddler Steps” playgroup for kids 18 months to three years. Takes place at CHP Family Services Building every Tuesday and Thursday. 413-464-5095. Great Barrington, MA (FREE)
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Northampton Parents Center is open every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-11:30am for playgroup, stories, snacks, and circle time. For pre-K children and their siblings. 413-582-2636. 297 Main Street, lower level. Northampton, MA.
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The South Hadley Family Center offers playgroups every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-11:30am at All Saints Episcopal Church. Stop by for open play, crafts, stories, music, and more. 413-533-7096. 7 Woodbridge Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE)
• 9:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Belchertown Family Center is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30am-12noon for drop-in playgroup. 413-283-7594. 720 Franklin Street. Belchertown, MA.
• 9:30am-12noon – PARENT/CHILD GROUP: Gateway Family Center offers a parent-child school readiness group every Tuesday from until June. 413-667-2203. 9 Russell Road. Huntington, MA. (FREE)
• 10am – STORYTIME: Come by the Goodwin Memorial Library for “Lunatunes!” a dynamic storytime with songs, movement, stories, and original art. For babies through age 5. 413-584-7451. Route 47 & Route 9. Hadley, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Palmer Monson Family Network’s drop-in playgroup runs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and is open to families with young children. Creative play, snack time, and circle time. 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA. (FREE)
• 10am – STORYTIME: Storytime for toddlers at the Berkshire Athenaeum. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly playgroup at Sunderland Elementary School for kids 5 and under. Every Tuesday and Friday. Old Amherst Road. Sunderland, MA.
• 10am-11am – STORYTIME: Join the Greenfield Public Library for a weekly storytime! This event includes stories, songs, fingerplays, and crafts for kids age five and under. 413-772-1544 x5. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Playgroup for pre-K kids with educational games and hands-on activities. Takes place at Haskins Center. 413-663-6593. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA.
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Easthampton Family Center is open every Monday, Tuesday, and Friday from 10am-12noon. 413-527-5496. 43 Main Street. Easthampton, MA.
• 10:30am-11:30am – NATURE STUDIES: Children ages 3-6 and their parents are invited to the Great Falls Discovery Center’s Kidleidoscope event! Kidleidoscope focuses on teaching young children about the natural world using the theme “we share our home.” Activities include stories, interactive games, and crafts. Kidleidoscope runs every Tuesday from May 27 until October 7. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)
• 11am-12noon – CULINARY ARTS: Community Health Programs is offering “Kids’ Kitchen,” a cooking class for kids ages 2.5-5 that focuses on healthy food choices. This class teaches kids the importance of healthy eating at an early age and gets them interested in cooking. 413-528-0457 x1154. 442 Stockbridge Road. Great Barrington, MA.
• 11am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Every Tuesday is toddler storytime at the Lenox Library! Come by for interactive board books, stories, songs, and fingerplays. For kids 18 months to 3 years. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
• 11am-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)
• 2pm – FILM: Amherst Cinema offers weekly matinees on Tuesdays especially for people with babies! This is a great chance to get out and see a movie without having to worry about finding a sitter. Check their website to see what’s playing each week. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. >$
• 2pm-4:30pm – LIBRARY: Kids ages 10 and up are invited to the Hatfield Public Library for Teen Tuesdays. Each meeting features a fun activity. Takes place the first and third Tuesdays of each month. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA.
• 3-5pm – TEENS: The Lilly Library hosts a weekly, drop in teen program for ages 12-17yo. Activities include games, crafts, book chat, movies, snacks. 413-587-1500. 19 Meadow Street. Florence, MA (FREE)
• 3pm – LEGOS: Lego Club is every Tuesday at the Bushnell-Sage Library! Come to the library and make new friends while creating Lego masterpieces. 413-229-7004. 48 Main Street. Sheffield, MA.
• 3:30pm-4:30pm – LEGOS: Lego Club meets at the Adams Library the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. For kids 4-8. Please call to sign up. 413-664-4821. 92 Park Street. Adams, MA.
• 3:30pm-4:30pm – LIBRARY TIME: Kids of all ages can come to the Millers Falls Library for Library Club! This includes games, activities, crafts, and snacks. 413-659-3801. 23 Bridge Street. Millers Falls, MA.
• 4pm-5pm – LEGOS: Kids ages 7-12 can join the Indian Orchard Branch Library‘s Lego Questers group! Come have fun with Legos each week at the library. Space is limited; call to sign up. 413-263-6846. 44 Oak Street. Indian Orchard, MA.
• 5:30pm-6:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Come to Gabriel Abbott Memorial School Gym for a gym group for kids up to age 8. The group is all about indoor active play, but also includes an art project, circle time, and a snack. Siblings welcome. 413-663-6593. 56 N Country Road. Florida, MA.
• 6:30pm – STORYTIME: It’s Pajama Storytime at the Monson Free Library! Wear your pajamas and enjoy stories and fun. Happens the second Tuesday of each month. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA.
• 7:30pm – MUSIC: The M.N. Spear Memorial Library is holding a Ukulele Sing Along the first Tuesday of each month. Come to the library with your ukulele (or other instruments) and have fun playing music with community members of all ages. Ukuleles available at the library. 413-259-1213. 10 Cooleyville Road. Shutesbury, MA.

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Wednesday, May 28th, 2014

Wednesday, May 28, 9am-5pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: During the spring, anadromous fish (those who live in rivers but spawn in the ocean) make their way to their Atlantic breeding grounds – watch them make their way down the Connecticut River at the Turners Falls Fishway! The fishway offers kids a chance to see directly into the river through a special viewing window, an experience that can serve as the foundation for building an understanding of the life cycle of fish and/or river ecosystems. The Fishway is open Wednesday-Sunday through June 15. 800-859-2960. First Street. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, May 28, 10am-2pm – HIKING: Join the Berkshire Natural Resources Council for a hike at the Hoosac Range. BNRC President Ted Ames will lead this hike, which offers great views of the Berkshires. Best for older students and adults. 413-499-0596. Route 2. North Adams, MA.

Wednesday, May 28, 10:30am-11:30am – STEM: Kids ages 2-4 can explore science, technology, engineering, and math at the Berkshire Museum! “Who Will Huff and Puff and Blow My House Down?” is a parent-child STEM event where parents and their kids can build houses and see if they can stand up to the Big Bad Wolf wind test! Space is limited; registration is required. 413-443-7171 x21. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, May 28, 12noon – THEATER/ACTIVISM: Hartsbrook High School students will perform “Who’s Afraid of the Corn Worm?,” a performance, in collaboration with PachaMama Puppet Productions, about the ways fields, plants, and insects are affected by people and corporations. Those who are interested in theater, puppets, agriculture, local food, and activism will enjoy this performance, which takes place in front of the First Churches. Main Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, May 28, 5:30pm – STORYTIME: Odyssey Bookshop is hosting “Passport to Adventure! A Magic Tree House Live Reading Tour” with Jack and Annie of the Magic Tree House book series, written by Mary Pope Osborne. Jack and Annie will tell stories of their adventures in a theatrical performance, complete with songs based on the books. Those who purchase Magic Tree House books at Odyssey can get them stamped by Jack and Annie. You can RSVP or just show up – first come, first served. 413-534-7307. 9 College Street. South Hadley, MA.

Wednesday, May 28, 6pm-7pm – LEGOS: Families can have fun being creative together at the Fall River Public Library‘s Family LEGO Night! Learn about architecture by building a LEGO skyscraper at the library. 508-324-2700. 104 North Main Street. Fall River, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, May 28, 6:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: South Berkshire Kids is offering a workshop for parents entitled, “Calming the Storm” with Jeanine Fitzgerald. This workshop focuses on anger issues and what steps can be taken to understand them and change the cycle of anger. Takes place at Community Health Programs, Inc. campus. Please pre-register; childcare is available. 413-464-5095. 444 Stockbridge Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, May 28, 4-6pm – BREAD BAKING: June 1st is International Children’s Day! At the Pioneer Valley Bread House they will celebrate different ways in which children, including the child within, bring knowledge and curiosity to life. Participants will learn to bake and create bread together in an intergenerational setting. While the bread rises and bakes, bread-makers enjoy conversations, story-telling, and other creative activities. One of the goals of the PVBH is to stimulate community engagement with issues vital to our towns – issues of food, health, local resources, sustainability, and intercultural dialogue. Takes place at Five College Women’s Studies Research Center. Gluten free breads are also made. 83 College Street, South Hadley, MA (Donations Welcomed)

Wednesday, May 28, 6pm – US HISTORY/TRANSPORTATION: U.S. 20 is the longest federal highway, traveling 3,365 miles from Boston to Newport, Oregon. Traveling right through Westfield too, the Westfield Athenaeum will host authors, Bill and Mary Lewis, who will present their book entitled, Through the Heartland on U.S. 20, with a lecture and slideshow depicting other towns on Route 20. Through the Heartland on U.S. 20 relates the development of the road, each town’s historic events, people of renown who lived there, even the infamous, things to do and see, and the towns’ best restaurants. One of the purposes of Lewis’ books is to encourage travelers to depart from the interstates and enjoy a less traveled route. 413-562-0638. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA (FREE)

Wednesday, May 28, 7pm-8:30pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: Join Williamsburg Woodland Trails for a presentation on moose in Massachusetts at the Meekins Library. UMass Amherst Department of Environmental Conservation PhD candidate Dave Wattles will discuss movements, habitat use, thermoregulatory behavior, and road interaction of moose in Massachusetts. Older students interested in animals, conservation, and nature will enjoy this talk. 413-268-7472. 2 Williams Street. Williamsburg, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, May 28, 7:30pm – THEATER: The Pittsfield High School drama department, Proteus, presents a production of Cats, based on the Broadway play of the same name and T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. The musical is about a tribe of cats called the Jellicles. This play is the second longest-running show in Broadway history, and audience members will enjoy seeing it performed by talented local students. Ticket reservations can be made in advance. 413-499-9535 x1102. 300 East Street. Pittsfield, MA. $

ONGOING FOR WEDNESDAYS (Always double check events before heading out. To add your ongoing event/activity here, email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com)

• 9am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Palmer Monson Family Network’s infant/toddler group runs every Wednesday. Kids age 2 and under can explore age-appropriate toys and the playroom, and enjoy a snack and circle time. Please no children or siblings over age 2. 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA. (FREE)
• 9am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Amherst Family Center has drop-in playgroups Monday-Friday, including snacks, circle time, activities, and more. 413-256-1145. 1200 North Pleasant Street. North Amherst, MA
• 9am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: Kids from birth to age five and their caregivers can come to the First Congregational Church of Hatfield for playgroup, including snacks, stories, and songs. 413-586-4998 x102. 41 Main Street. Hatfield, MA.
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Stop by the Cummington Family Center for playgroup for kids 5 and under! There will be stories, arts and crafts, songs, and playtime. Takes place at Community House. Main Street. Cummington, MA.
• 9:30am-11am – PLAYGROUP: There will be a loosely structured playgroup at the Clapp Memorial Library every Wednesday for kids from birth to age five. 413-323-0417. 19 South Main Street. Belchertown, MA.
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: There will be playgroup every Wednesday at the Lenox Community Center. 413-464-5095. 65 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Northampton Parents Center is open every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-11:30am for playgroup, stories, snacks, and circle time. For pre-K children and their siblings. 413-582-2636. 297 Main Street, lower level. Northampton, MA.
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The South Hadley Family Center offers playgroups every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-11:30am at All Saints Episcopal Church. Stop by for open play, crafts, stories, music, and more. 413-533-7096. 7 Woodbridge Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE)
• 9:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Belchertown Family Center is open every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-12noon for drop-in playgroup. 413-283-7594. 720 Franklin Street. Belchertown, MA.
• 10am – STORYTIME: Weekly storytime at the Holyoke Public Library. 413-322-5640. 335 Maple Street. Holyoke, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Come by the Westhampton Library for playgroup the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. Features games, arts and crafts, and storytime. For kids 8 and under. 1 North Road. Westhampton, MA.
• 10:15am-11:15am – STORYTIME: Kids of all ages and their families are invited to the Carnegie Public Library for a weekly storytime, complete with crafts, stories, activities, and snacks. 413-863-3214. 201 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA.
• 10:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Stop by the Edwards Library on the first and third Wednesday of each month for playgroup. Storytime, games, and arts and crafts are featured. For kids 8 and under. 30 East Street. Southampton, MA
• 10am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Weekly storytime at the New Marlborough Library. 413-464-5095. 1 Mill River-Great Barrington Road. New Marlborough, MA. (FREE)
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly playgroup at Erving Elementary School for kids 5 and under. Sponsored by Community Network for Children. 978-544-5157. Northfield Road. Erving, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly playgroup at Wendell Free Library for kids 5 and under. Sponsored by Community Network for Children. 978-544-5157. 7 Wendell Depot Road. Wendell, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly Tales and Tunes playgroup at the Leverett Library for kids 5 and under. Sponsored by Community Network for Children. 978-544-5157. 75 Montague Road. Leverett, MA.
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Playgroup at the Gateway Family Center every Wednesday and Friday. 413-667-2203. 9 Russell Road. Huntington, MA.
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: It’s storytime at the Monson Free Library for kids ages 2-5! Come by for stories, snacks, crafts, and fun. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA.
• 10:30am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Come to the Mason Square Branch Library for storytime, songs, and crafts. For ages 3-8. 413-263-6853. 765 State Street. Springfield, MA.
• 11am – STORYTIME: Weekly story hour at the Tilton Library. 413-665-4683. 75 North Main Street. South Deerfield, MA.
• 11am – STORYTIME: Join the Dickinson Memorial Library for storytime every Wednesday. There will be movement, stories, music, crafts, and a snack. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA.
• 11am – STORYTIME: Preschoolers and their caregivers can come to storytime at the Dickinson Memorial Library every Wednesday for stories, music, movement, and crafts. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA.
• 1pm-2:30pm – PARENT SUPPORT GROUP: Every Wednesday, the Salasin Center is holding a “Parents Supporting Parents” support group. Parents and grandparents can come connect and discuss parenting in this safe environment. Free childcare is available. Please call for more info or to sign up for childcare. 413-774-4307. 474 Main Street. Greenfield, MA.
• 3pm – CHESS: Chess Club is every Wednesday at the Bushnell-Sage Library! Come to the library and make new friends while improving your chess skills. 413-229-7004. 48 Main Street. Sheffield, MA.
• 3:30pm – LEGOS: Have fun with LEGOs the second Wednesday of each month at the Lanesborough Public Library! 413-442-0222. 83 Main Street. Lanesborough, MA.
• 4pm-5pm – LEGOS: The Berkshire Athenaeum hosts LEGO Club on the third Wednesday of each month. Kids can use LEGOs to experiment with basic principles of architecture, physics, and design. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
• 4pm – CHESS: Kids from kindergarten to 8th grade can drop by the East Longmeadow Public Library for chess! This weekly program is open to kids of all skill levels, from beginner to chess pro. Come make new friends and improve your chess skills. 413-525-5400 x4. 60 Center Square. East Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)
• 4pm-5pm – WRITING: Forbes Library holds a writing group for children and young adults the third Wednesday of each month. Come do some free writing, story workshopping, and do exercises to beat writer’s block. All ages welcome. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA.
• 6:30pm – STORYTIME: Pajama storytime for kids ages 3-6 at the East Longmeadow Library. 413-525-5400 x1506. 60 Center Square. East Longmeadow, MA.
• 7:30pm-10:30pm – DANCE: Beginners and people of all skill levels can come dance the night away at Downtown Amherst Contra! This is a great way to have fun and meet new people in a low-pressure environment. Beginners can show up at 7 for a learning session. Best for older students and adults. Every Wednesday except the second Wednesday of each month. 99 Main Street. Amherst, MA. $

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Thursday, May 29th, 2014

Thursday, May 29, 10am – FAMILY CONCERT: The Chesterfield Community Center is hosting a fun family concert with Roger Tincknell! All ages will enjoy this lively performance. Route 143. Chesterfield, MA. (FREE)

Thursday, May 29, 10am-11am – STEM: Kids ages 3-5 can explore science, technology, engineering, and math at the STEM Sprouts Playgroup at Amelia Park Children’s Museum! There will be fun, hands-on activities to get kids engaged in these topics. Pre-registration is required. 413-572-4014. 29 South Broad Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE)

Thursday, May 29, 12noon – THEATER/ACTIVISM: Hartsbrook High School students will perform “Who’s Afraid of the Corn Worm?,” a performance, in collaboration with PachaMama Puppet Productions, about the ways fields, plants, and insects are affected by people and corporations. Those who are interested in theater, puppets, agriculture, local food, and activism will enjoy this performance, which takes place at Solar Park. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)

Thursday, May 29, 12:15pm – LOCAL HISTORY: This week’s Museums a la Carte lecture at the Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts is, “Living Steampunk,” with Bruce Rosenbaum. He will discuss how the steampunk art and design process celebrates history through the telling of personal stories of individuals, families, organizations, and places. 800-625-7738. 21 Edwards Street. Springfield, MA. >$

Thursday, May 29, 1:30pm-3:30pm – NATURE STUDIES/HOMESCHOOL: The Hitchcock Center for the Environment is holding an open house day for their homeschool programs. Come enjoy a pond walk on the property and learn about some of the classes for homeschool students ages 6-12 that the Center offers. This event is great for parents looking to learn more about homeschool programs for their children, and kids will love getting to explore the Center and participate in the pond exploration! 413-256-6006. 525 South Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA.

Thursday, May 29, 7pm – MUSIC: Students from Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Public School will perform in “Bright Size Life,” the school’s music department showcase. This event takes place at the Academy of Music Theater and features performances by different ensembles. Come see these talented local students perform! Tickets available in advance. 413-584-9032 x105. 274 Main Street. Northampton, MA. $

Thursday, May 29, 7:30pm – THEATER: The Pittsfield High School drama department, Proteus, presents a production of Cats, based on the Broadway play of the same name and T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. The musical is about a tribe of cats called the Jellicles. This play is the second longest-running show in Broadway history, and audience members will enjoy seeing it performed by talented local students. Ticket reservations can be made in advance. 413-499-9535 x1102. 300 East Street. Pittsfield, MA. $

ONGOING FOR THURSDAYS (To add your ongoing event/activity here, email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com)

• 9am-12:30pm – PLAYGROUP: The Amherst Family Center has drop-in playgroups Monday-Friday, including snacks, circle time, activities, and more. 413-256-1145. 1200 North Pleasant Street. North Amherst, MA
• 9:30am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: The CHP Family Center is holding a “Toddler Steps” playgroup for kids 18 months to three years. Takes place at CHP Family Services Building every Tuesday and Thursday. 413-464-5095. Great Barrington, MA (FREE)
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Northampton Parents Center is open every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-11:30am for playgroup, stories, snacks, and circle time. For pre-K children and their siblings. 413-582-2636. 297 Main Street, lower level. Northampton, MA.
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The South Hadley Family Center offers playgroups every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-11:30am at All Saints Episcopal Church. Stop by for open play, crafts, stories, music, and more. 413-533-7096. 7 Woodbridge Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE)
• 9:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Belchertown Family Center is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30am-12noon for drop-in playgroup. 413-283-7594. 720 Franklin Street. Belchertown, MA.
• 9:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Belchertown Family Center is open every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am-12noon for drop-in playgroup. 413-283-7594. 720 Franklin Street. Belchertown, MA.
• 9:45am-10:45am – ARTS & CRAFTS: The Amelia Park Children’s Museum offers weekly arts and crafts activities for kids. The theme changes each week, but the activity is always fun, educational, and often connected to other things at the museum. 413-572-4014. 29 South Broad Street. Westfield, MA.
• 10am – MOVEMENT: The Music and Movement program with Laurie and Tom will be at the Carnegie Library every Thursday. Young children and their caregivers are invited to this fun, free program. 413-863-3214. 201 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA.
• 10am-11am – PARENT SUPPORT GROUP: New parents and their infants from birth to one year are invited to a support group at the Greenwood Children’s Center. Come share stories about the new little one in your life. 413-565-4163. 231 Maple Road. Longmeadow, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – ROLLERSKATING: Kids age 6 and under can come to Interskate 91 North for skating, roller racers, games, music, and more! Admission for kids includes snack and skate rental. More info here. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street (Inside of Hampshire Mall). Hadley, MA. >$
• 10am-12noon – STORYTIME: The Dalton Free Public Library offers a weekly storytime, which includes stories, short films, and crafts, all designed to help kids with social and literacy skills. 413-684-6112. 462 Main Street. Dalton, MA.
• 10am – PLAYGROUP: Play and Learn group at the Berkshire Athenaeum every Thursday includes stories, songs, and games. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
• 10am-11am – STORYTIME: Stop by the New Salem Library every Thursday for nursery rhymes, tales, and tunes. 978-544-6334. 23 S Main Street. New Salem, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Sponsored by the Community Health Program (CHP), Bushnell-Sage Library is hosting a Sing-A-Song playgroup for kids 0-5 and their caregivers. Runs every Thursday. 413-229-7004. 48 Main Street. Sheffield, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PARENT WORKSHOP: MotherWoman is returning to the Hilltowns for a monthly drop-in group for mothers of young children. The group offers a supportive environment for mothers to discuss motherhood and all aspects of raising young children. Takes place at the Cummington Family Center on the second Thursday of each month. 413-634-8853. 33 Main Street. Cummington, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Palmer Monson Family Network’s drop-in playgroup runs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and is open to families with young children. Creative play, snack time, and circle time. 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA. (FREE)
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: The Hatfield Public Library holds a storytime for kids 5 and under every Thursday! Come to the library for stories and fun. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA.
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Story hour: stories, songs, finger plays, crafts and more for preschool-age children; siblings welcome. Hatfield Library. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA (FREE)
• 10:30am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Join the Emily Williston Memorial Library for storytime every Thursday! There will be snacks, stories, and crafts. 413-529-1605. 9 Park Street. Easthampton, MA.
• 11am-11:45am – STORYTIME: Come by the Lenox Library for preschool storycraft. Kids ages 3-5 can hear stories, sing songs, and do a related craft activity. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
• 3:30pm-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.
• 3:30pm-6:30pm – FAMILY FUN: The Salasin Center will be open for family time every Thursday. Come by for activities to do with the whole family. 413-774-4307 x4. 474 Main Street. Greenfield, MA.
• 4:30-6pm – COMMUNITY MEAL/MOVIE: The Amherst Survival Center serves a free community meal every Thursday and screens a film for the community to enjoy together. Bring your family and come enjoy an evening with your community while learning about the work of the ASC! 413-549-3968. 138 Sunderland Road. North Amherst, MA. (FREE)

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Friday, May 30th, 2014

Friday, May 30, 11am – 12noon – THEATER/ACTIVISM: Hartsbrook High School students will perform “Who’s Afraid of the Corn Worm?,” a performance, in collaboration with PachaMama Puppet Productions, about the ways fields, plants, and insects are affected by people and corporations. Those who are interested in theater, puppets, agriculture, local food, and activism will enjoy this performance, which takes place at the Hartsbrook School. 193 Bay Road. Hadley, MA. (FREE)

Friday, May 30, 4:30pm-8pm – ARTS & CRAFTS/CULTURAL STUDIES: La Noche de San Juan is an annual celebration of Puerto Rican arts, culture, dance, and food that takes place each year in Holyoke Heritage State Park on June 21. Beautiful paper lanterns are an important part of this celebration, and you can learn to make them at a workshop hosted by the Holyoke Winter Carnival, the South Holyoke Safe Neighborhood Initiative, and the Care Center on May 30 at the Morgan School. Families and community members can create handmade illuminated lanterns to carry in the La Noche de San Juan Lantern Parade. More information is available here. 413-322-5643. 596 Bridge Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)

Friday, May 30, 5pm-6pm – KNITTING: Are your kids interested in knitting? The Sunderland Public Library is offering a knitting event for teens and tweens in grades 5-12. Come work on a project or learn to knit for the first time! 413-665-2642. 20 School Street. Sunderland, MA. (FREE)

Friday, May 30, 7pm – MUSIC: Students from Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Public School will perform in “Bright Size Life,” the school’s music department showcase. This event takes place at the Academy of Music Theater and features performances by different ensembles. Come see these talented local students perform! Tickets available in advance. 413-584-9032 x105. 274 Main Street. Northampton, MA. $

Friday, May 30, 7:30pm – THEATER: The Pittsfield High School drama department, Proteus, presents a production of Cats, based on the Broadway play of the same name and T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. The musical is about a tribe of cats called the Jellicles. This play is the second longest-running show in Broadway history, and audience members will enjoy seeing it performed by talented local students. Ticket reservations can be made in advance. 413-499-9535 x1102. 300 East Street. Pittsfield, MA. $

ONGOING FOR FRIDAYS (To add your ongoing event/activity here, email us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com)

11:30am-12:30pm – PRENATAL YOGA: Open to all trimesters and all levels of yoga experience. No registration necessary. For info visit HRYMCA website or call Courtney at 413-303-1246. Hampshire Regional YMCA, 286 Prospect Street. Northampton, MA ($10 for non-members, free for HRYMCA members)

• 9am-12oon – PLAYGROUP: The Amherst Family Center has drop-in playgroups Monday-Friday, including snacks, circle time, activities, and more. 413-256-1145. 1200 North Pleasant Street. North Amherst, MA
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Stop by the Cummington Family Center for playgroup for kids 5 and under! There will be stories, arts and crafts, songs, and playtime. Takes place at Community House. Main Street. Cummington, MA.
• 9am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly playgroup at Shutesbury Elementary School for kids 5 and under. Sponsored by Community Network for Children. 978-544-5157. 23 West Pelham Road. Shutesbury, MA.
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Play and Learn group for young kids at Sunderland Elementary. 1 Swampfield Drive. Sunderland, MA.
• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Kids ages 0-5 and their caregivers can stop by Whole Children for playgroup, featuring snacks and playtime. 37 Russell Street. Hadley, MA.
• 10am – PLAYGROUP: Come watch preschool videos at the Berkshire Athenaeum every Friday! 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Palmer Monson Family Network’s drop-in playgroup runs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, and is open to families with young children. Creative play, snack time, and circle time. 413-283-6246. 4 Springfield Street. Three Rivers, MA. (FREE)
• 10am – STORYTIME: Preschool-aged kids can come to the Stockbridge Library for StoryCraft, a storytime and craft time with Miss Vicky! Siblings are welcome. 413-298-5501. 46 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA.
• 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly playgroup at Sunderland Elementary School for kids 5 and under. Every Tuesday and Friday. Old Amherst Road. Sunderland, MA.
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Playgroup at the Gateway Family Center every Wednesday and Friday. 413-667-2203. 9 Russell Road. Huntington, MA.
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: The Easthampton Family Center is open every Monday, Tuesday, and Friday from 10am-12noon. 413-527-5496. 43 Main Street. Easthampton, MA.
• 10am-12noon – PARENT WORKSHOP: The Gateway Family Center is offering a weekly workshop for parents and infants 0-12 months titled “Nurturing Your Baby.” Learn infant massage, learn about infant development, meet other parents and babies, and more. This is a great workshop for parents and their young children to do together. Childcare for older children is available. Please register. 413-667-2203. 9 Russell Road. Huntington, MA.
• 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Weekly “Skip and Dip” playgroup at Berkshire South RCC. 413-464-5095. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
• 10:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Stop by the Chesterfield Community Center on the first and third Friday of each month for playgroup. Storytime, games, and arts and crafts are featured. For kids 8 and under. Chesterfield, MA.
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Storytime for little ones at the Pelham Library! 413-253-0657. 2 South Valley Road. Pelham, MA. (FREE)
• 10:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Weekly fitWIC playgroup at CHP Family Services Building. 413-464-5095. 442 Stockbridge Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
• 11am – STORYTIME: Weekly storytime for preschoolers at the Sunderland Public Library. Features stories, songs, and crafts. 413-665-2642. 20 School Street. Sunderland, MA.
• 11am-11:30am – STORYTIME: The Berkshire Museum’s weekly Museum Adventures program features stories, songs, dancing, play time, scavenger hunts, and more, and is open to kids 18 months to 3 years. It’s a great way for young kids to explore some of what the museum has to offer! Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
• 11am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Play and Learn Group at Lanesborough Town Hall, featuring educational playthings, snack, art project, and circle time. For kids walking-age to five years. 413-663-6593. 83 N Main Street. Lanesborough, MA.
• 12:30pm-2pm – PARENT/CHILD WORKSHOP: The Storrs Library‘s Pathway for Parents is a program for families with their first baby (0-15 months). Learn about the importance of reading, music, and interactive play, and how these can benefit your new baby. Please call to sign up. 413-565-4182. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA.
• 2:15pm-4pm – LEGOS: The Dickinson Memorial Library’s LEGO Club meets the second Friday of each month. Come make friends and build with LEGOs. Best for kids in grade 3 and up. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA.
• 5:30pm – BOOK CLUB: Kids in grades 2-4 can come to the Hatfield Public Library for book club! Book clubs are a great way for kids to read for fun and then discuss books with their peers. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA.
• 8pm – ASTRONOMY: The Milham Planetarium at Williams College will be open to the public for a planetarium every Friday evening (except 3/24 and 4/4). You can learn about the motions of the planets, the phases of the moon, comets, and much more! Reservations recommended. 413-597-2188. 829 Main Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)

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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.