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.

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BULLETIN BOARD

Jun 28

Chandler’s Restaurant at Yankee Candle Village in South Deerfield (25 Greenfield Road) is hosting a Doll’s Day Out Luncheon on Saturday, June 28th at 11am. Whether it’s an American Girl doll or a beloved baby, every doll deserves a fabulous day out! The award winning kids menu will be available with a special sweet treat included. Adults will be offered the brand new lunch menu! Mrs. Claus will be making a special appearance with her own favorite doll and beautiful handmade doll clothes will be for sale. Call 413-665-1277 to make reservations for this great event! Chandlers.yankeecandle.com ($)

Jul 1 – Aug 19

Odyssey Bookshop in South Hadley hosts Camp Odyssey this summer! This once-a-week one hour craft camp features one book and activity for kids every Tuesday afternoon, July 1-Aug 19. Activities range from designing your own glitter tattoos, decorating cupcakes, making and taking home your very own lava lamp, plus many other activities. Appropriate for ages 4-12, depending on activity. Visit their web site at www.odysseybks.com for a full list of their summer long activities. There is a $3 supply fee (or the purchase of the book) to participate, and RSVPs are required at least two days prior. Hurray! Spots are filling up fast! Odyssey Bookshop is located at 9 College Street in South Hadley. 413-534-7307

Jul 9 – Aug 9

Join NCT Kids! this summer for 2 family-friendly musicals based on beloved children’s books. First up is Judith Viorst’s classic Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day about a boy who is having the world’s worst day! Sing along with Alexander as he learns that everyone has a bad day every now and then but the great thing is…there’s always tomorrow! Next up it’s the rollicking, mischievous, off-the-wall adventures of SkippyJon Jones and the Cirque De Ole! Based on the bestselling book series about the Siamese kitten who thinks he’s a chihuahua super hero, SkippyJon Jones and the Cirque De Ole is a tuneful romp through the big-top of Skippy’s imagination. For tickets call 413-585-3220 or online www.newcenturytheatre.org

Ticket Giveaway: 2014 Green River Festival! The 28th annual Green River Festival happens again this year on July 12th & 13th, 2014… and Hilltown Families has two pairs of tickets to giveaway, one pair for each day! With a free pair of tickets, and free admittance for children ten and under, two adults can take a gaggle of kids and plan on spending the day at this great western Massachusetts music festival! Find out how you can enter for a chance to win!

Circus Smirkus is coming to Northampton on July 29 & 30, and Hilltown Families is a proud premier sponsor! Find out how you can be our guests at one of the four shows taking place at the Three-County Fairgrounds! Subscribe to our eNewsletter and find out how you can enter for a chance to win a family 4-pack of tickets with preferred seating! Best seats in the house will give our guests an opportunity to see the award-winning, international traveling youth circus up close during this exuberant & joyful two-hour show! Presented by North Star: Self-Directed Learning for Teens. For more info about the show, or to purchase tickets, visit www.northstarteens.org/circus-smirkus.

From the state where the American Revolution began, families can take part in the multitude of Fourth of July celebrations happening in western Massachusetts beginning this weekend! Fireworks are happening in Holyoke on Friday, June 27, and four more displays are planned for Saturday, June 28. On the eve for July 4th, you can catch fireworks in Easthampton or South Hadley, and then on Friday, July 4th, fireworks and parades take place across the region, from North Adams to Springfield! Check our post, 2014 Fourth of July Celebrations & Fireworks in Western Massachusetts, for all the details!

ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your summer program, school, 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 info@hilltownfamilies.org.

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 info@hilltownfamilies.org.

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LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
June 28th-July 4th 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, June 28th, 2014

9-10am – HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW: Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. This week is a rebroadcast of Local Food Episode with Guest DJ, Orange Sherbet. 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, June 28, 9am-11:30am – BIRD STUDIES/OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Families can explore Barton Cove and see the bald eagle’s nest and eaglets with Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center on a Family Eagle Expedition. Kids and adults can use a tandem kayak to explore the Cove. This is a great way to get kids interested in kayaking and other outdoor activities. It is also a rare chance to see the eagles up close! Registration is required; more info given upon registration. 1-800-859-2960. Northfield, MA. $

Saturday, June 28, 9am-4pm – LOCAL HISTORY/GEOLOGY: Explore Hawley’s rocks and gardens with the Sons and Daughters of Hawley at their annual Hawley tour, “The Bedrock of our Foundation: Rocks & Gardens of Hawley.” Bud Wobus, Professor of Geology at Williams College, will speak about Hawley’s many interesting rocks and geologic features. Participants can also see and learn about the charcoal kiln in Hawley and how it was used in the past. There will also be a luncheon at a residential property in Hawley, which features beautiful gardens and stonework. Older students interested in local history and geology would enjoy this fascinating and unique tour. Please call for tickets and more information. 413-339-4091 or 413-339-5247 or 413-339-4903. Hawley, MA. (SUGGESTED DONATION $-$$)

Saturday, June 28, 9am-5pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: Learn to waterski with the Oxbow Waterski Show Team at their site on the Connecticut River in Northampton! This learn to ski clinic includes instruction, equipment, etc., you just need to show up and bring a bathing suit! Please call to set up a time. 413-563-7142. Old Springfield Road. Northampton, MA. $$

Saturday, June 28, 10am – CHILDREN’S CELEBRATION: Hampshire Regional CFCE is holding a Beginning of Summer Celebration at the Westhampton Public Library for all kids ages 8 and under. There will be presentations by Mad Science, a StoryWalk (Frank Asch’s Water), art and fine motor activities, time to play in the water, snacks, and free book for every child. 1 North Road. Westhampton, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 10am – STORYTIME: Kids can come to the Buckland Public Library for a science-themed storytime! Engage in the summer reading theme of “Fizz, Boom, Read!” with stories, activities, and a snack. 413-625-9412. 30 Upper Street. Buckland, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 10am-12noon – HIKING: Explore Bob’s Way with the Berkshire Natural Resources Council on June 28. This intermediate hike features a beaver swamp and great views from Dave’s Bench. 413-499-0596. Route 23. Monterey, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 10am-12noon – PLANT STUDIES: Join Acorn Kitchen for a wild food walk and tasting at Knightville Basin. Learn about and try several different species of wild plants on this walk. Best for older students interested in edible wild plants. Call to RSVP and for directions. 413-329-8093. Huntington, MA. (SUGGESTED DONATION $$)

Saturday, June 28, 10am-2:30pm – HISTORY/GAMES: Play some interesting historical games at the Mason Library. You can learn about historical miniature games and how to play them. An interesting lesson in the history of gaming! 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 10am-4pm – HISTORY/CULINARY ARTS: Experience life in an early New England kitchen at Historic Deerfield‘s Open Hearth Cooking demonstrations! Learn about the role of herbs in traditional New England cooking. 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, June 28, 10am-4pm – CRAFT FAIR: Support local youth artisans (ages 14-25) at the Generation Handmade Youth Craft Fair at Railroad Street Youth Project in Great Barrington. Support these young artists and crafters at this unique craft fair – most craft fairs charge several hundred dollars for a booth, which makes it difficult for younger artisans to participate, but this one is free for youth artisans to participate in. In addition to supporting local artists and artisans, this is a great chance to check out some cool art and maybe even get a head start on some holiday shopping! 60 Bridge Street. Great Barrington, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 10:15am – STEM/SUMMER READING: Celebrate the start of summer reading at the Wilbraham Public Library with Jungle Jim of Boston, who will entertain kids ages 5 and up with “How to Catch a Mouse.” Jungle Jim will build amazing structures and a big mousetrap! Kids can learn about science, technology, engineering, and math at this super fun event. 413-596-6141. 25 Crane Park Drive. Wilbraham, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 10:30am – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Kick off summer reading at the S. White Dickinson Memorial Library with a magic performance by Scott Jameson. He will perform magic and juggling to keep all ages entertained! 413-665-2170. 202 Chestnut Plain Road. Whately, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 10:30am – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Join Odyssey Bookshop for their Summer Family Entertainment Series every Saturday this summer at 10:30am. This week, kick off the series with Trevor the Games Man! Trevor will be at Odyssey with stiltwalking and games for all ages to enjoy! This series is a fun way for the whole family to get outside and have some fun together on a Saturday morning! 413-534-7307. 9 College Street. South Hadley, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 10:30am-11:30am – ARTS & CRAFTS: Come learn about painting and make a life-size portrait of yourself at Ramsdell Library! Kids who like art will love this program. 413-274-3738. 1087 Main Street. Housatonic, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 10:30am-11:30am – NATURE STUDIES: Join the Great Falls Discovery Center for Bike Path Bingo, a canal-side nature walk for kids! Kids will learn about the natural world using binoculars, field guides, and a fun game to test their observation skills. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, June 28, 10:30am-12noon – INSECT STUDIES: Contribute to Project Native’s Butterfly House by attending a Summer Butterfly and Bug Safari! Walk the grounds looking for butterflies, caterpillars, and eggs to relocate to the Butterfly House. Learn about this order of insects, Lepidoptera, and gain skills in finding and even identifying butterflies and caterpillars and by learning about their host plants. 413-274-3433. 342 North Plain Road. Housatonic, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, June 28, 10:45am – CULINARY ARTS: Kids and adults can learn to cook traditional Shaker meals at Hancock Shaker Village! Learn about whole grains, eating in season, food preservation, fermentation, and more. This is a great way for kids to learn about cooking while spending time with a parent. 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$

Saturday, June 28, 11am – LUNCHEON: Chandler’s Restaurant at Yankee Candle Village is hosting a Doll’s Day Out Luncheon. Whether it’s an American Girl doll or a beloved baby, every doll deserves a fabulous day out! Call to make reservations. 413-665-1277. 25 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA.  ($$)

Saturday, June 28, 11am – LOCAL HISTORY/AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES: Join Historic Northampton and the David Ruggles Center for a walking tour of abolition era sites in downtown Northampton with Steve Strimer. This 1.5 mile walking tour will take you from Elm Street to Old South Street and will show you many of Northampton’s interesting historic sites that are somehow connected to the abolitionist movement. Older students interested in local history and African American studies would enjoy this tour of Northampton. 413-584-6011. Elm Street. Northampton, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 11am – ANIMAL STUDIES: Children’s Summer Theater, presented by 22 News, takes place every Saturday at the Eastfield Mall. This week, come hear Roger Tincknell’s “Children’s Songs and Singing Games.” Those who attend will receive food court coupons and will be entered to win a gift card to the mall. 1655 Boston Road. Springfield, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 11am-12noon – STEM: CFCE is offering a STEM program for young children at the Rowe Town Library. Come learn about science, technology, engineering, and math, do hands-on activities, and take home a STEM kit to continue learning at home. Call to register. 413-625-6194. 318 Zoar Road. Rowe, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, June 28, 11:30am-12:15pm – STEM: Families with kids in preschool-3rd grade can come to the Mason Library for SIK Science. Come learn about science and have fun mining for magnets! 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 1pm – SUMMER READING: Kick off summer reading at the Meekins Library on June 28! Come sign up for the program from 1pm-1:45pm, and then enjoy a performance by Motoko Dworkin and Eshu Bumpus (2pm), who will tell and sing world folktales. There will be ice cream sundaes after the show. 413-268-7472. 2 Williams Street. Williamsburg, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 1pm – HISTORY/AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES: Join the David Ruggles Center for a reading of Frederick Douglass’ “The Meaning of the Fourth of July for the Negro,” a speech initially delivered on July 5, 1852, in response to being asked to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This communal reading takes place on the Amherst Town Common and will teach students about history. Amherst, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 1pm-3pm – KINDERGARTEN READINESS: Are you or your child feeling nervous about kindergarten starting up this fall? Come to the Berkshire Museum for “WeeMuse: Welcome to Kindergarten” to help you both prepare! Children can ride on a school bus and practice packing their backpacks, spend time in model classrooms, and do activities that replicate the kindergarten experience. Parents can ask Museum “teachers” any questions they may have about kindergarten registration, childhood development, etc. This program is an excellent way to help kids and their families prepare for this exciting milestone. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, June 28, 2pm – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Scott Jameson presents a fun magic show at the Westfield Athenaeum to kick off summer reading! Come see amazing magic tricks and cool illusions at this fun program. Please register. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 5pm – FIREWORKS: Enjoy fireworks, food, music, games, and more at the Northampton Family Fourth Celebration at Look Park. Rain date 6/29. 300 North Main Street. Florence, MA. (FREE)

Saturday, June 28, 5pm – FIREWORKS: Celebrate the Fourth of July at the Easthampton Spirit Extravaganza at Daly Field, Galbraith Field, and Nonotuck Park. Enjoy food, music, hot air balloon rides, a rock wall, face painting, a BMX stunt show, fireworks, and more! Please bring blankets and chairs. Easthampton, MA. (DONATION)

Saturday, June 28, 5pm-9pm – VOLUNTEER: Help the Art Garden get ready for the Green River Festival (7/12 & 7/13) by prepping supplies and activities for their tent! They need help cutting cardboard, exchanging ideas, making examples, and more. Families with older students can come help out! 413-625-2782. 14 Depot Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (VOLUNTEER)

Saturday, June 28, 5pm-9pm – CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES: If you’re at the Look Park fireworks tonight, make sure to check out The Play Workshop‘s free Pop Up Adventure Playground! Here kids can engage in creative free play and have a ton of fun with their peers. You must pay to park at Look Park, or take the free shuttle from Smith Vocational High School. 413-588-2208. 300 North Main Street. Florence, MA.

Saturday, June 28, 5-9:30pm – FIREWORKS: Come to the Quarry Hill Community School for fireworks and food as part of Monson’s Summerfest. Rain date 6/29. 43 Margaret Street. Monson, MA.

Saturday, June 28, TBA – FIREWORKS: The Ware Lions Club Independence Celebration features live music, food, and of course, fireworks! Grenville Park. Ware, MA.

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Sunday, June 29th, 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, June 29, 10am-2pm – AGRICULTURE/LOCAL FOOD: Join CISA (Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture) for a tour of Pomeroy’s Vegetable Farm and Meadowbrook Farm. Families can come tour these two local farms and learn about how they operate, what they grow, and can pick peas, carrots, and strawberries. This is a great opportunity to get kids engaged in local agriculture by touring two local farms. Pack a picnic lunch. Space is limited; please RSVP. 413-665-7100 x19. 244 Hampden Road. East Longmeadow, MA.

Sunday, June 29, 11am-3pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Families can come to The Mount for a Community Garden Party on June 29. Tour the house, explore the grounds, participate in all-ages activities, meet Curious George, and more! The Downtown Pittsfield Farmers’ Market will also be on site selling local produce and goods. Family members of all ages will love getting to explore this local landmark on this day of free fun! 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)

Sunday, June 29, 1pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts is offering a docent-led “mini-tour” by Deena Maniscalchi titled, “The Thirties.” She will discuss the social, political, and artistic movements that shaped the work of American artists in the 1930s. Free with museum admission. 800-625-7738. 21 Edwards Street. Springfield, MA. $$

Sunday, June 29, 1pm-3pm – NATURE STUDIES/OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Adults with developmental, physical, or mental health disabilities can come to the Hitchcock Center for the Environment for “Nature for Wellness,” a nature connection workshop that aims to help find wellness and self empowerment through interaction with nature. The program focuses on exercise, relaxation in nature, naturalist observations, and shared experiences. Space is limited; please call to register. 413-256-6006. 525 South Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)

Sunday, June 29, 1pm-5pm – BOOK SALE: World Eye Bookshop and the Greenfield Elks are holding a Community Book Fair at the Elks Lodge. There will be books for all ages, and the first 200 kids (preschool-grade 12) to arrive will get a voucher for $10 worth of books! Don’t miss this great community event! 413-772-2186. 3-5 Church Street. Greenfield, MA.

Sunday, June 29, 2pm-4pm – FILM/HISTORY: The Berkshire Museum presents a screening of Nicky’s Family (2011; not rated), a documentary about Nicholas Winton, an Englishman who organized the rescue of over 650 Czech and Slovak children shortly before the outbreak of World War II. This story remained little-known for over fifty years, until Winton’s wife found a suitcase full of papers and transport plans. Older students interested in film and history, especially World War II, would enjoy this screening. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $

Sunday, June 29, 6pm-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Coop Concerts Summer Concert Series takes place weekly at Greenfield Energy Park. This week’s show features Russell Kaback and Zydeco Connection. Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic dinner with family and friends while listening to exciting live music. 50 Miles Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)

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Monday, June 30th, 2014

Monday, June 30, TBA – LAWN CONCERT: The Tilton Library presents their Monday Night Music series of concerts on the library lawn. On June 30, Mike Graffius will perform folk music. Bring a blanket and lawn chair and enjoy time spent with family and friends enjoying great live music! 413-665-4683. 75 North Main Street. South Deerfield, MA.

Monday, June 30, 10am-5pm – AVIATION/STEM: The New England Air Museum is offering fun, educational activities for kids every day this summer! From June 30-July 6, museum visitors can build and race their own air trolley. These trolleys, powered by rubber bands and propellers, can teach kids about engineering and physics by giving them the opportunity to build the trolleys and then see how they work in a race. 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Road. Windsor Locks, CT. $

Monday, June 30, 10:30am-12:30pm – MAPS: Kids ages 8 and up can attend map camp with Joey Chernila at the Mason Library. Learn how to make artistic and informative maps using the Mason’s children’s book collection for inspiration and Great Barrington’s Main Street for information. The camp is four days long and runs from Monday, June 30 to Thursday, July 3. Registration is required. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.

Monday, June 30, 2pm – FAMILY MOVIE: Families can come see The LEGO Movie (2014; rated PG) at the Westfield Athenaeum. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA.

Monday, June 30, 7:30pm-9:30pm – LOCAL HISTORY: You may know about Edith Wharton’s home, The Mount, but did you know that it’s considered to be haunted? Come see for yourself on one of The Mount’s ghost tours. The tour will take you through the stables and the main house, where you will learn about and even witness the property’s haunted creaks and footsteps. Not recommended for children under 12. Tickets must be purchased in advance. 413-551-5100. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. $$

ONGOING FOR MONDAYS (We are building up our summer ongoing list! To add your free ongoing event/activity here, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org)

• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Northampton Parents Center is holding a Summer Park Play Date at Jackson Street School’s playground every Monday from June 30 until August 4. 413-582-2636. 120 Jackson Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)
• 11am-12:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Young kids can come to tummy time at the Forbes Library every Monday. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA.
• 2pm-3pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: The West Springfield Public Library is offering a guided arts and crafts program for ages 9-15 every Monday from June 30-August 4. Please register. 413-736-4561 x3. 511 Main Street. West Springfield, MA. (FREE)
• 6pm-7:30pm – SPORTS: Kids and adults 12 and up can come play pickup soccer at Pettingill Park in Cummington. All experience levels welcome. Runs all summer. Cummington, MA. (FREE)
• 7:30pm-9:30pm – MUSIC: Every second and fourth Monday, the Montague Retreat Center holds a Community Singing Night. Come express yourself and your music at these intergenerational, community-oriented singing events. 413-824-0855. 177 Ripley Road. Montague, MA.

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Tuesday, July 1st, 2014

Tuesday, July 1, 9am-4pm – VOLUNTEER: Families can help the community at a Family Volunteer Event at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Help fight food insecurity in the Valley by helping the Food Bank sort produce, tour the Food Bank warehouse, and meet other community members working to fight hunger. Kids and adults of all ages are welcome to come help out; kids 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Please RSVP. 413-247-9738 x114. 97 North Hatfield Road. Hatfield, MA. (VOLUNTEER)

Tuesday, July 1, 10am – MUSIC: Kids ages 6 and up and their parents/caregivers can come to the Westfield Athenaeum for music and movement. Please register. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA.

Tuesday, July 1, 10am-11:30am – INSECT STUDIES: Contribute to Project Native’s Butterfly House by attending a Summer Butterfly and Bug Safari! Walk the grounds looking for butterflies, caterpillars, and eggs to relocate to the Butterfly House. Learn about this order of insects, Lepidoptera, and gain skills in finding and even identifying butterflies and caterpillars and by learning about their host plants. 413-274-3433. 342 North Plain Road. Housatonic, MA. (FREE)

Tuesday, July 1, 1pm – STEM: The Berkshire Athenaeum presents a science program by Keith Michael Johnson – “Science Isn’t Always Pretty.” He will do show and tell, share fun facts, and more. This event is great for kids 5 and up and connects with the summer reading theme of “Fizz, Boom, Read!” 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA.

Tuesday, July 1, 3pm – ARTS AND CRAFTS/LANGUAGE ARTS: Join Odyssey Bookshop for Camp Odyssey! This once-a-week camp features a weekly book and activities to go along with it. Recommended for kids age 4 and up, this week’s book/activity is Project Kid: 100 Ingenious Crafts for Family Fun with Amanda Kingloff. Registration is required by June 29th. 514-534-7307. 9 College Street. South Hadley, MA. >$

Tuesday, July 1, 5pm-6pm – WRITING: Kids in grades 5-12 can come to the Sunderland Public Library for a writing workshop with authors and illustrators. Practice your writing skills and do creative writing exercises. Runs every Tuesday from June 24-July 29. 413-665-2642. 20 School Street. Sunderland, MA. (FREE)

ONGOING FOR TUESDAYS (We are building up our summer ongoing list! To add your free ongoing event/activity here, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org)

• 10am – STORYTIME: Come to the Goodwin Memorial Library every Tuesday for storytime! Runs all year. 413-584-7451. Route 47 & Route 9. Hadley, MA.
• 10am – STORYTIME: Storytime for toddlers at the Berkshire Athenaeum. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
• 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 through October 7. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A. Turners Falls, 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. >$
• 5:30pm & 6:30pm – KARATE: Free shotokan karate classes are offered every Tuesday and Thursday at Northfield Elementary School. There are two classes – one for 7-10 year olds (5:30pm-6:15pm) and one for teens and adults (6:30pm-7:30pm). More info available here. 802-451-0303. 104 Main Street. Northfield, MA. (FREE)
• 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.
• 8pm – ASTRONOMY: The Milham Planetarium at Williams College will be open to the public for a planetarium viewing every Tuesday and Thursday from June 17 until August 14. 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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Wednesday, July 2nd, 2014

Wednesday, July 2, 10am-11am – LITERACY: You and your child can work together to develop pre-reading skills at the “Every Child Ready to Read” workshop. The workshop is for kids birth-age through five years and runs every Wednesday from July 2 until July 30(five meetings). The workshop includes a literacy workshop, storytime, and playgroup. This is a great chance to introduce your young child to the world of reading! Registration is required and you must register for the full five-week session. 413-464-5095. 442 Stockbridge Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, July 2, 10:30am & 1pm – THEATER: Paintbox Theatre presents a performance of Cinderella at the Northampton Senior Center on July 2, 3, and 5. All ages will enjoy seeing their interesting take on this classic tale! Tickets available in advance. 413-210-1898. 67 Conz Street. Northampton, MA. $$

Wednesday, July 2, 1pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: The Berkshire Athenaeum is offering a craft activity for kids ages 5-12. “Smart as Einstein’s Hair” is the activity and it is connected to the summer reading program. Registration is required. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA.

Wednesday, July 2, 2pm – GAMES/STEM: Have fun with physics at the Westfield Athenaeum, where you can play a real-life version of the hit game, Angry Birds! Please register. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA.

Wednesday, July 2, 3pm – BOOK CLUB: Odyssey Bookshop is hosting a Summer Fun Book Club for kids ages 8-14 this summer, from July 2 until August 20. This week, come to the Book Club Meet and Greet Ice Cream Party and meet the book club leader, discuss this summer’s books, and enjoy ice cream. Keep kids interested in reading this summer with this fun book club! 413-534-7307. 9 College Street. South Hadley, MA.

Wednesday, July 2, 3pm-7pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: The Housatonic Valley Association is offering a free paddle trip on the Housatonic River! Families with children ages 6 and up can paddle through Historic Stockbridge and see the Stockbridge Country Club and the Norman Rockwell Museum, learn about the River’s fascinating wildlife, and more. More information available on the Housatonic Valley Association website. Registration is required; space is limited. 413-394-9796. Park Street. Stockbridge, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, July 2, 3:30pm-4:30pm – BOOK CLUB: Kids in grades 5-8 can participate in a tween summer book club at the Sunderland Public Library. Choose books to read and then come together to discuss them. Runs every Wednesday until July 30. 413-665-2642. 20 School Street. Sunderland, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, July 2, 4pm-5pm – FUNGI STUDIES: Grow Food Amherst will have a special event for kids each week at the Amherst Wednesday Market in Kendrick Park. This week, kids can learn how to become a “fungi ally.” Amherst, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, July 2, 4:15pm & 8:15pm – DANCE: Jacob’s Pillow presents Bleu!, an interactive dance performance for all ages by Compagnia T.P.O. Through light, animation, and music, this performance explores an underwater world of mythical sea creatures and ancient legends. Audience members of all ages are welcome to come onstage and participate in the performance. This unique and exciting show can get young kids interested in dance and theater. 413-243-9919. 358 George Carter Road. Becket, MA. $$

Wednesday, July 2, 5pm-6pm – DANCE: Kids in grades 5-12 can come to the Sunderland Public Library‘s dance club on Wednesday evenings. Learn jazz, hip hop, swing, ballet, salsa, bellydance, and more. No dance experience is required, so this is a great chance to try something new! Registration is required. 413-665-2642. 20 School Street. Sunderland, MA.

Wednesday, July 2, 6pm – STEM: Learn all about volcanoes at M.N. Spear Memorial Library! Kids can come build their own volcano in the first part of this three-part volcano series. Please call to register. 413-259-1213. 10 Cooleyville Road. Shutesbury, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, July 2, 6pm – FUNGI STUDIES: Learn about mushrooms at Bascom Lodge atop Mt. Greylock with John Wheeler, founder of the Berkshire Mycological Society. This talk will focus on identification, seasons, and typical habitats of local mushrooms. Best for older students interested in nature. Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, July 2, 6pm & 7pm – ASTRONOMY: Learn about astronomy at the Pelham Library on July 2. The Springfield Museums’ mobile, inflatable planetarium will be at the library for a star program. Registration is required. 413-253-0657. 2 South Valley Road. Pelham, MA. (FREE)

Wednesday, July 2, 6:30pm – LAWN CONCERT: Enjoy summer, live music, family, and friends at North Adams‘ summer concerts at Windsor Lake. 413-662-3000. North Adams, MA.

ONGOING FOR WEDNESDAYS (We are building up our summer ongoing list! To add your free ongoing event/activity here, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org)

• 10am – FAMILY MOVIE: Looking for a way to cool down or get out of the rain this summer? Cinemark’s Summer Movie Clubhouse screens a kids movie (rated G or PG) every Wednesday at 10am at their three Western Mass locations – Hadley (367 Russell Street), Springfield (1655 Boston Road), and West Springfield (864 Riverdale Street). Come see great movies at a great price! Western Massachusetts. >$
• 10am-10:45am – STORYTIME: The West Springfield Public Library is offering a summer storytime for preschoolers every Wednesday from July 2 until August 6. Please register. 413-736-4561 x3. 511 Main Street. West Springfield, MA. (FREE)
• 10am-12noon – STORYTIME/STEM: Elementary school-aged kids can come to the Arms Library for fun STEM programming every Wednesday morning this summer, from July 2 until August 6. Come enjoy storytime and learn about things like gardens, space, the ocean, robots, how to make ice cream, and much more! These hands-on activities can get kids engaged in STEM learning. 413-625-0306. Main Street & Bridge Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (FREE)
• 10:30am – STORYTIME: Children (ages 5+) and their parents can come to the Mead Art Museum for storytime every Wednesday at 10:30am. Come hear stories and explore connections between the stories and the art on display at the Mead. Runs to August 13. 413-542-2335. 41 Quadrangle Drive. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
• 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.
• 11am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Toddlers can have fun at the Forbes Library every Wednesday at their toddler time program. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA.
• 3pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Tour the outside of Emily Dickinson’s Homestead and The Evergreens every Wednesday this summer with the Emily Dickinson Museum. These tours teach not only about the poet, but also about historic New England architecture. Some of Dickinson’s house-related poems will also be read on the tours. 413-542-8161. 280 Main Street. Amherst, MA. $
• 4:30pm-5:30pm – AGRICULTURE/STEM: Kids ages 8 and up can attend the Mason Library‘s 4-H Club every Wednesday from July 2 until August 13. The club focuses on topics like animals, motion, science, engineering, chemical reactions, and more. Registration is required. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA.t
• 5pm-6pm – LANGUAGE ARTS/HISTORY: Enjoy summer afternoons on The Mount‘s terrace and hear Edith Wharton’s short stories read aloud by professional actors. Runs through August. 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. (>$)
• 6:15pm – DANCE: Come to Jacob’s Pillow for their Inside/Out Performances – free, outdoor performances by different dancers, showcasing the talent of the Festival’s many dancers and choreographers. Students of all ages who enjoy dance would love these performances, which take place every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday until August 23. 413-243-9919. 358 George Carter Road. Becket, MA. (FREE)
• 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, July 3rd, 2014

Thursday, July 3, 10:30am – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: The West Springfield Public Library is hosting a performance by Sparky’s Puppets. Kids ages 3 and up can come to the library and enjoy “The Time Machine Show.” 413-736-4561 x3. 511 Main Street. West Springfield, MA. (FREE)

Thursday, July 3, 10:30am & 1pm – THEATER: Paintbox Theatre presents a performance of Cinderella at the Northampton Senior Center on July 2, 3, and 5. All ages will enjoy seeing their interesting take on this classic tale! Tickets available in advance. 413-210-1898. 67 Conz Street. Northampton, MA. $$

Thursday, July 3, 4:15pm & 8:15pm – DANCE: Jacob’s Pillow presents Bleu!, an interactive dance performance for all ages by Compagnia T.P.O. Through light, animation, and music, this performance explores an underwater world of mythical sea creatures and ancient legends. Audience members of all ages are welcome to come onstage and participate in the performance. This unique and exciting show can get young kids interested in dance and theater. 413-243-9919. 358 George Carter Road. Becket, MA. $$

Thursday, July 3, 6pm-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Coop Concerts Summer Concert Series takes place weekly at Greenfield Energy Park. This week’s show features Austin & Elliott, Daniel Hales and the Frost Heaves, and Rich Briere and Friends. Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic dinner with family and friends while listening to exciting live music. 50 Miles Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)

Thursday, July 3, 6:30pm-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Music on the Porch is back this summer at the Florence Civic Center! Pack a picnic and enjoy music by Rick Murnane, Gentle Hen, and The Fawns. 90 Park Street. Florence, MA.

Thursday, July 3, 8pm – SUMMER CELEBRATION: Enjoy a hike, live music, and a campfire at Sheep Hill with the Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation on July 3! All ages can come search for fireflies, hear local musician Mike Quinones, roast marshmallows, and have fun with family and friends. 413-458-2494. 671 Cold Spring Road. Williamstown, MA. >$

Thursday, July 3, 8:30pm – MOVIE: Enjoy a classic movie in a unique setting with MASS MoCA at their Movie at the Airport event at Harriman-West Airport. They will screen Apollo 13 (1995; rated PG), the Oscar-winning film about the 1970 mission to the moon. The grounds open at 7pm for food and drinks. 413-662-2111. 836 State Road. North Adams, MA. $$

Thursday, July 3, 9pm – FIREWORKS: Spend time with family, friends, and community members at East Longmeadow’s fireworks celebration! The fireworks take place at East Longmeadow High School. 180 Maple Street. East Longmeadow, MA.

Thursday, July 3, dusk – FIREWORKS: : South Hadley’s annual fireworks celebration. Rain date, 7/5. South Hadley, MA. (FREE)

ONGOING FOR THURSDAYS (We are building up our summer ongoing list! To add your free ongoing event/activity here, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org)

• 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Northampton Parents Center is holding a Summer Park Play Date at Look Park’s little playground every Thursday until August 28. 413-582-2636. 300 North Main Street. Florence, MA.
• 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.
• 1pm-3pm – PLAYGROUP: Babies can have fun and make friends at the Forbes Library‘s weekly baby playgroup. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA.
• 2pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Learn about art at Amherst College’s Mead Art Museum‘s “It’s Cool at the Mead” series of free gallery talks, every Thursday at 2pm and Friday at 11am from June 19-August 22. The gallery talks cover a different topic each time, so take a break from the summer heat and come learn about the Museum’s wonderful collection. 413-542-2335. 41 Quadrangle Drive. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
• 4pm-8pm – GAMES/LEGOS: Families can have fun every Thursday atGaylord Memorial Library‘s game and LEGO night! Stop by for board games, puzzles, LEGOs, and more. 413-538-5047. 47 College Street. South Hadley, 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)
• 5:30pm & 6:30pm – KARATE: Free shotokan karate classes are offered every Tuesday and Thursday at Northfield Elementary School. There are two classes – one for 7-10 year olds (5:30pm-6:15pm) and one for teens and adults (6:30pm-7:30pm). More info available here. 802-451-0303. 104 Main Street. Northfield, MA. (FREE)
• 6pm-7pm – PLAYGROUP: Kindergarteners can attend a playgroup at the Haskins Center’s playground from June 19 until August 28! Kids can come enjoy playing, hearing stories, having fun, and making friends. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
• 6:15pm – DANCE: Come to Jacob’s Pillow for their Inside/Out Performances – free, outdoor performances by different dancers, showcasing the talent of the Festival’s many dancers and choreographers. Students of all ages who enjoy dance would love these performances, which take place every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday until August 23. 413-243-9919. 358 George Carter Road. Becket, MA. (FREE)
• 8pm – ASTRONOMY: The Milham Planetarium at Williams College will be open to the public for a planetarium viewing every Tuesday and Thursday from June 17 until August 14. 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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Friday, July 4th, 2014

Friday, July 4, 9am-4pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Explore the Amelia Park Children’s Museum on July 4 for Free Fun Fridays, sponsored by the Highland Street Foundation. Discover the museum’s many cool exhibits, see demonstrations, and more at this free museum day for families! 413-572-4014. 29 South Broad Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE)

Friday, July 4, 10am – PARADE/CELEBRATION: The Williamstown Theatre Festival holds their annual Fourth of July celebration. At 10am, hear WTF actors read the Declaration of Independence and the British reply at the Williams College Museum of Art, then enjoy the parade, which begins at 11am. 413-597-3400. Spring Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)

Friday, July 4, 10am – PARADE: Celebrate Independence Day at the Monson Summerfest Parade. Watch the floats go by while spending the holiday with family and friends. Main Street. Monson, MA. (FREE)

Friday, July 4, 10am – PARADE: Celebrate Independence Day in Downtown Pittsfield at their annual parade. This year’s theme is “Made in America.” Rain or shine. Downtown. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)

Friday, July 4, 10am – PARADE: Celebrate Independence Day at the East Longmeadow 4th of July Parade! Bring the whole family to see the parade go by and hear the marching band. Parade starts at high school. East Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)

Friday, July 4, 10:30am – PARADE/CELEBRATION:  The theme of the 67th annual Chesterfield Parade this year is “Healthy Living.” A quintessential New England, small town 4th of July parade with marching bands, floats, antique cars, government officials, livestock, and awards for many different categories.  413-296-4422. Downtown Chesterfield (Route 143 & Main Street). Chesterfield, MA (FREE)

Friday, July 4, 3pm-7pm – DANCE: Jacob’s Pillow Dance is offering an afternoon of free activities for families as part of Highland Street Foundation’s Free Fun Fridays! There will be kids’ dance activities, a kid-friendly tour of the grounds, a free outdoor performance by Yin Yue Dance Company, arts and crafts, stories, family dance classes, and more. This is a great chance for families to explore Jacob’s Pillow together! 413-243-9919. 358 George Carter Road. Becket, MA. (FREE)

Friday, July 4, 4:15pm & 8:15pm – DANCE: Jacob’s Pillow presents Bleu!, an interactive dance performance for all ages by Compagnia T.P.O. Through light, animation, and music, this performance explores an underwater world of mythical sea creatures and ancient legends. Audience members of all ages are welcome to come onstage and participate in the performance. This unique and exciting show can get young kids interested in dance and theater. 413-243-9919. 358 George Carter Road. Becket, MA. $$

Friday, July 4, 5pm – FIREWORKS: The Amherst LSSE is hosting a Fourth of July celebration at UMass with fireworks, food, hot air balloon rides, entertainment, and more! Fireworks start at 9:30pm. 413-259-3065. Stadium Drive. Amherst, MA. (>$ FOR PARKING)

Friday, July 4, 6pm – FIREWORKS/CELEBRATION: Old Sturbridge Village is holding an Independence Day celebration with celebratory music, food, entertainment, games, and fireworks. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. $$

Friday, July 4, DUSK – FIREWORKS: Star Spangled Springfield, the city of Springfield’s annual fireworks show, happens at Riverfront Park. Springfield, MA.

Friday, July 4, 9:15pm – FIREWORKS: The city of West Springfield fireworks are tonight, following a day of food, activities, and music. Wendell Road. West Springfield, MA. (FREE)

Friday, July 4, 9:30pm – FIREWORKS: : Annual fireworks celebration following the 4th of July SteepleCats game. North Adams, 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.