Hilltown Families 
Suggested Events for August 2nd-8th, 2014
Discover fun and educational events happening this week in western Massachusetts, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
“Hilltown Families has given me ways to reach out into the community with activities and ideas for things to do that are fun and close to home. I use Hilltown Families when I have friends from out of town coming over and want to show them what it is like to live in a small town community.” – Briana Kubik (Blandford, MA)
If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
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BULLETIN BOARD
Jul 30-Aug 2
PaintBox Theatre, Northampton’s theatre of imagination and improvisation for all ages, presents the world stage premiere of Cornelia Funke’s picture book, Pirate Girl, adapted and directed by Tom McCabe. Pirates, singing and carrying on, audience participation, bad jokes from Captain Firebeard, art from local children, a band of silvery pirates from the Northampton Senior Center—all without any scurvy or seasickness! Performances are Wed., July 30 – Sat., Aug. 2, 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. daily at the Northampton Senior Center, 67 Conz Street. Tickets: $10 at the door or at BrownPaperTickets.com. Group discounts: call 413-320-0517. Stay tuned for Tarzan, August 13-16 at the Three County Fairgrounds! www.paintboxtheatre.com.
Aug 1,6 & 13
The fun continues this summer at the Springfield Museums! There’s the Life Through Time exhibit of roaring, stomping mechanical dinosaurs and Ice-age mammals (extra fee), plus enjoy art and science activities, live reptile demos and more every weekday at the Summer Spectacular Family Series. There are also great family shows every Wednesday – Friday, including the Tanglewood Marionettes on Thursdays, Bubblemania with Casey Carle (August 1), Grammy-nominated The Pop Ups (August 6), Mister G (August 13), and many others, plus the Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden, all free with museum admission! Check www.springfieldmuseums.org for a full schedule.
Aug 12, 14, 19 & 21
Graphic design classes for kids and tweens in Easthampton! Introduce your art loving kid to graphic design in these two-hours courses taught by Leslie Tane at Eastworks. Intro to Graphic Design for 8-12 year olds will be held from 1-3pm on Tues., August 12; the class for 12-15 year olds is from 1-3pm on Thurs., August 14. What is Graphic Design? is from 1-3pm on Tues., August 19; the class for 12-15 year olds is from 1-3pm on Thurs., August 21. Your kids will learn about graphic design: what it is, where to find it, and the beginnings of how to make it. Supplies are provided. $25/student per class. www.tadashow.com/workshops
Sep 28
On Sunday, Sept. 28th, join The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts at their 4th annual Will Bike 4 Food (WB4F) charity cycling event. Ride as an individual or form a team. Starting a team (4 or more) with your friends and family is an easy way to help them feed our neighbors in need! With multiple courses to choose from—a 10, 25, 50 or 100 mile loop—riders of any level can become involved. WB4F provides a chance for families to participate in an activity together, while raising awareness of the issue of hunger. Now is a great time to get started. To register, or to learn more about WB4F, visit their website at www.foodbankwma.org/events/bike.
Fall Openings
Amherst Montessori School has limited fall openings for toddlers and pre-schoolers, ages 12 months through 6 years. Featuring a Young Toddler program for ages 12-24 months, Toddler for ages 18 months – 3 years, the Children’s House for ages 3-6 years, and La Casa de Niños, the Pioneer Valley’s only Spanish Montessori pre-school program for ages 3-6 years. AMS fosters the natural self-construction, cognitive development, and social-emotional well-being of each child in programs that include music, art, practical life, outdoor time, PE and yoga. For current openings or to schedule a visit, contact Laura Miller, Director of Admissions, at lmiller@amherstmontessori.org. www.amherstmontessori.org
Aug 4-8
The 24th annual Children’s Literature Festival sponsored by the Mary Lyon Foundation will be held this summer at the Buckland Shelburne Elementary School in Shelburne Falls from 8:30am-Noon, Aug 4-8. This unique program combines children’s literature with arts and crafts, music, field trips and special guests. Children will have an opportunity to visit the Mary Lyon House in Upper Buckland where Mary Lyon, founder of Mount Holyoke, first taught school in 1823. The theme this year is A Sense of Place and introduces children grades K-6 to local history. Cost for $50/child. Includes all materials and snacks. Scholarships available. For more info Toni Wilcox at 413-863-9418. Call the Mary Lyon Foundation office at 413-625-2555 for application.
ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your fall program, after school class, 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.
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LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
August 2nd-8th, 2014
Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets | Berkshire Family Fun
Events Happening in the Hilltowns | ♦ On-going Events
Saturday, August 2nd, 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 we are rebroadcasting our show with guest DJ, Mister G! 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, August 2, All Day – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The Massachusetts State 4-H Dairy Show is back this year at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. Come see and learn about dairy animals and practices. 413-549-3257. Wisdom Way. Greenfield, MA.
Saturday, August 2, 9:30am-11:30am – ART/HISTORY: Middle schoolers can explore the intersection of art and history at Herman Melville’s Arrowhead with the Berkshire Historical Society. Kids can use objects from the Historical Society’s collection to curate an exhibit with the theme of “Art and Industry” that will be on display for one week. Students who are interested in history and art would enjoy this event, which helps forge connections between the two. 413-442-1793. 780 Holmes Road. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 2, 9:30am-5pm – HISTORY: Visit Sturbridge Village for the largest Revolutionary War reenactment in New England! “Redcoats and Rebels” transforms the Village into a military camp and offers loads of fun activities that help teach about the war. There will be mock battles, tours of the British and American camps, cannon demonstrations, musket drilling, martial music, 18th-century baseball and dances, a chance to see an American soldier’s daily life, and much more. Kids get free admission in August. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. $$
Saturday, August 2, 10am – LOCAL HISTORY/AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES: Join Historic Northampton and the David Ruggles Center for a walking tour of abolition era sites in eastern downtown Northampton with Steve Strimer. This walking tour will take you from the First Churches all the way to Cherry 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, August 2, 10am-12noon – INSECT STUDIES: Learn about dragonflies, butterflies, and damselflies with Kestrel Land Trust and naturalist Josh Rose in the meadowlands of Hadley. Kids and adults can attend this outing to learn about and search for these unique and beautiful insects. Please RSVP for meeting location. 413-549-1097. Hadley, MA. >$
Saturday, August 2, 10am-1pm – COMMUNITY SERVICE: Families can help close the summer meal gap at a special Summer Family Volunteer Event at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts on August 2 from 10am-1pm. Kids and adults can come to the Food Bank warehouse to assist with the sorting of food donations and preparing food for distribution to local families in need of assistance. Space is limited, so please call to RSVP. 413-247-9738. 97 North Hatfield Road. Hatfield, MA. (VOLUNTEER)
Saturday, August 2, 10am-2pm – GARDENING/COMMUNITY SERVICE: Help Gardening the Community clean up their new site on Walnut Street! Bring tools and a strong work ethic and help do all kinds of work around the new site. More information can be found here. 413-693-5340. Walnut Street. Springfield, MA. (VOLUNTEER)
Saturday, August 2, 10am-3pm – HISTORY: The Sheffield Historical Society has the Milt Barnum All American Tool Exhibit on display through August 17 at the Old Stone Store. Come see and learn about historic tools used for a variety of trades at this fascinating exhibit. 413-229-2694. Main Street. Sheffield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 2, 10am-5pm – FUNDRAISER/AVIATION: The Franklin County Remote Control Club is hosting “Flying for Food,” an event to benefit the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. There will be raffle prizes, food vendors, model airplanes from many eras, static displays, simulators and trainers, flight demonstrations, and more. This is a great chance for family members of all ages to learn about flight and have fun while also working to fight hunger in our communities. Please bring a canned good to donate. 413- 110 Industrial Boulevard. Turners Falls, MA.
Saturday, August 2, 10am-5pm – HISTORY/BLACKSMITHING: Hancock Shaker Village presents the “Age of Iron Blacksmithing Weekend” on August 2 and August 3. Blacksmiths from the Berkshire, Connecticut, Capital District, and New England Blacksmith Guilds will be at the Village to showcase their work and demonstrate historical and contemporary blacksmithing techniques. Visitors can learn about ironwork from the 17th to the 21st Century, Japanese hardware, tool making, engraving, Viking and Shaker forging, and more. There will also be an ironwork scavenger hunt for children. This is a great opportunity for families to learn about this historic trade and how it has evolved over time and across cultures. Free with museum admission. 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Saturday, August 2, 10am-8pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The Adams Agricultural Fair runs from August 1-August 3 at Bowe Field. The Fair features an antique tractor pull, animal demonstrations, live entertainment, birds of prey demonstrations, food, a demolition derby, and many other activities. The Fair is an exciting way to learn about agriculture and the many things going on in and around Adams that you might not know about. Old Columbia Street. Adams, MA.
Saturday, August 2, 10:30am – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Join Odyssey Bookshop for their Summer Family Entertainment Series every Saturday this summer at 10:30am. This week, Bill Ross the Juggler will perform “BOOK ‘EM!” 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. (FREE)
Saturday, August 2, 11am – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Children’s Summer Theater, presented by 22 News, takes place every Saturday at the Eastfield Mall. This week, come enjoy a performance of “Bookworm and the Barefoot Books” by Talking Hands Puppet Theater. 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, August 2, 11am – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Ja’Duke presents a production of “Pirate and Princess Parade” at the Shea Theater. Younger kids will love this performance! 413-863-0001. 71 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. $
Saturday, August 2, 11am-12noon – HEALTH/SAFETY: The Lee Ambulance Squad will have an ambulance parked at the Lee Library for demonstrations and a tour. This is a great chance for kids (and adults) to learn about ambulances and how they work/look inside. 413-243-0385. 100 Main Street. Lee, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 2, 11am-12noon – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Kids can enjoy a performance by Terry A La Berry at the Spectrum Playhouse on August 2! Come dance and sing along! 413-394-5023. 20 Franklin Street. Lee, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 2, 12noon-8pm – CULTURAL STUDIES/CELEBRATION: Join the Nolumbeka Project for the Pocumtuck Homelands Festival in Unity Park. This festival is a celebration of Native American art, music, and culture, and features live music, storytelling, crafts, and more. There will be educational activities and entertainment for all ages at the festival. 413-498-4318. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, August 2, 12:30pm & 3:30pm – THEATER: Come see a performance of Hairspray JR. by the Barrington Stage Company at the Berkshire Museum. This performance is based on the film and Tony Award-winning musical and is appropriate for kids ages 5 and up. Children under age 5 are not permitted at the performance. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Saturday, August 2, 1pm – CHILDREN’S BOOKS: Join the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art for a talk with Bob Staake, author of over 50 children’s books, including Bluebird and My Pet Book. Staake will discuss some of his most notable books, the writing and illustration processes, and more. Fans of Staake’s books will enjoy this talk in the auditorium and can get a book signed after the talk. Free with museum admission. 413-658-1100. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. $
Saturday, August 2, 1pm – HISTORY: Learn about the Springfield Armory‘s historic weapons at a Blank Firing Demonstration. Visitors can see the weapons, hear the rifles blasting, and smell the burning gunpowder at this demonstration. Seeing the firing demonstration can teach students of all ages about historic weapons and what the Springfield Armory was used for in the past. 413-734-8551. 1 Armory Square. Springfield, MA.
Saturday, August 2, 2pm – HISTORY: Learn about the Civil War’s Battle of Mobile Bay at Western Gateway Heritage State Park on August 2. Attendees can learn about this important battle, which took place 150 years ago, and how it resulted in a Union victory. Best for older students interested in history. 413-663-6312. 115 State Street. North Adams, MA.
Saturday, August 2, 2pm-8pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: The Turners Falls Block Party happens on August 2, and features live music, a parade, food, crafts, and more! All ages will enjoy this fun community celebration. Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA.
Saturday, August 2, 2:30pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Kids can get ready for the school year by making upcycled notebooks out of old paper bags and scrap paper at the Berkshire Co-Op Market! Come design your notebook and sew it together. Call or stop by the front desk to RSVP. 413-528-9697 x10. 42 Bridge Street. Great Barrington, MA.
Saturday, August 2, 2:30pm & 3:30pm – CONCERT: Join the Porter-Phelps Huntington House Museum for A Perfect Spot of Tea, their summer tea and music series based on the colonial tradition. Sit on the museum’s back veranda and enjoy tea, pastries, and live music. This week, Bella Voce will perform. 413-584-4699. 130 River Drive. Hadley, MA. $
Saturday, August 2, 3pm – STORYTIME: Join the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art for a special storytime with Greg Pizzoli, who will read from his latest book, Number One Sam. Kids will enjoy this fun storytime and get a book signed at the end. Free with museum admission. 413-658-1100. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. $
Saturday, August 2, 4pm-7pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Celebrate the Berkshire Summer School of Art at the Bidwell House Museum‘s Garden Party on August 2! Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, music by the Plein Air Trio, see artists at work, and spend time having fun with friends. Tickets available in advance. 413-528-6888. 100 Art School Road. Monterey, MA. $$$
Saturday, August 2, 5pm-8pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Join Whole Foods Market for the second annual “In the Field and Under the Sky,” a benefit dinner to raise money for CISA (Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture) at Enterprise Farm. There will be delicious locally-grown food, live music by MilkBottle, craft beer and wine, and more. Please purchase tickets in advance. 413-665-7100. 72 River Road. Whately, MA. $$$
Saturday, August 2, 8pm – THEATER: Exit 7 Players present a production of The Wizard of Oz starring young actors from the area. All ages will like seeing this classic play. Tickets available in advance. 413-583-4301. 37 Chestnut Street. Ludlow, MA. $$
Sunday, August 3rd, 2014
Sunday, August 3, All Day – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The Massachusetts State 4-H Dairy Show is back this year at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. Come see and learn about dairy animals and practices. 413-549-3257. Wisdom Way. Greenfield, MA.
Sunday, August 3, 8am-5pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The Adams Agricultural Fair runs from August 1-August 3 at Bowe Field. The Fair features an antique tractor pull, animal demonstrations, live entertainment, birds of prey demonstrations, food, a demolition derby, and many other activities. The Fair is an exciting way to learn about agriculture and the many things going on in and around Adams that you might not know about. Old Columbia Street. Adams, MA.
Sunday, August 3, 8:30am-4pm – PLANT STUDIES: Warm up at the Smith College’s Lyman Conservatory & Plant House! Not only is it a dry/warm destination on a wet/cold day, but there are loads of learning opportunities awaiting you! They offer an audio tour for both kids and adults, and a “Woods of the World” display that features panels of wood from over 170 trees from all around the world! With ten different indoor exhibits to explore, the learning possibilities offered by the conservatory are endless. 413-585-2740. 16 College Lane on the Smith College campus. Northampton, MA (FREE/Donations)
Sunday, August 3, 9am-12noon – HISTORY/LITERATURE: Join the Berkshire Historical Society and The Trustees of Reservations for the Annual Monument Mountain Hike. The hike recreates one taken by Herman Melville on August 5, 1850, during which he met Nathaniel Hawthorne. Best for adults or older students interested in literature and/or history. Meet at Monument Mountain parking lot. 413-442-1793. Route 7. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, August 3, 9:30am-5pm – HISTORY: Visit Sturbridge Village for the largest Revolutionary War reenactment in New England! “Redcoats and Rebels” transforms the Village into a military camp and offers loads of fun activities that help teach about the war. There will be mock battles, tours of the British and American camps, cannon demonstrations, musket drilling, martial music, 18th-century baseball and dances, a chance to see an American soldier’s daily life, and much more. Kids get free admission in August. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. $$
Sunday, August 3, 10am-3pm – 10am-3pm – HISTORY: The Sheffield Historical Society has the Milt Barnum All American Tool Exhibit on display through August 17 at the Old Stone Store. Come see and learn about historic tools used for a variety of trades at this fascinating exhibit. 413-229-2694. Main Street. Sheffield, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, August 3, 10am-5pm – HISTORY/BLACKSMITHING: Hancock Shaker Village presents the “Age of Iron Blacksmithing Weekend” on August 2 and August 3. Blacksmiths from the Berkshire, Connecticut, Capital District, and New England Blacksmith Guilds will be at the Village to showcase their work and demonstrate historical and contemporary blacksmithing techniques. Visitors can learn about ironwork from the 17th to the 21st Century, Japanese hardware, tool making, engraving, Viking and Shaker forging, and more. There will also be an ironwork scavenger hunt for children. This is a great opportunity for families to learn about this historic trade and how it has evolved over time and across cultures. Free with museum admission. 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Sunday, August 3, 1pm – MUSIC: The Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood presents Watch and Play, a program designed to engage kids ages 3-10 in Tanglewood’s musical experience. Musicians will present an interactive musical performance in order to teach kids about musical concepts, instruments, and concert themes. This program is free with tickets to the Sunday afternoon performance. 617-266-1200. 297 West Street. Lenox, MA. $$-$$$
Sunday, August 3, 2pm – FILM: Join Amherst Cinema for Big Screen Classics, where they screen a classic film each Sunday and following Wednesday. This week, see The Sound of Music (1965; rated G), one of the most popular movie musicals of all time. This is a great way for families to experience classic films on the big screen! 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. $
Sunday, August 3, 2pm – SPORTS HISTORY/FILM: The Yiddish Book Center is screening The Life and Times of Hank Greenberg (1998; rated PG) on August 3. This documentary is about a young Jewish baseball player during World War II who nearly broke Babe Ruth’s homerun record and was the first Jewish superstar of mainstream American sports. Older students interested in baseball and history will enjoy this screening. 413-256-4900. 1021 West Street. Amherst, MA. $
Sunday, August 3, 2pm – THEATER: Come see a performance of Hairspray JR. by the Barrington Stage Company at the Berkshire Museum. This performance is based on the film and Tony Award-winning musical and is appropriate for kids ages 5 and up. Children under age 5 are not permitted at the performance. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Sunday, August 3, 2pm – THEATER: Exit 7 Players present a production of The Wizard of Oz starring young actors from the area. All ages will like seeing this classic play. Tickets available in advance. 413-583-4301. 37 Chestnut Street. Ludlow, MA. $$
Sunday, August 3, 2pm & 6:30pm – THEATER: Majestic Children’s Theater presents a production of Fantastic Mr. Fox this July and August. Kids and adults will enjoy seeing this classic Roald Dahl story come to life onstage! 413-747-7797. 131 Elm Street. West Springfield, MA. $
Sunday, August 3, 4pm – SPORTS: Enjoy America’s pastime this summer at one of the Pittsfield Suns’ home games at Wahconah Park! Come watch the game and eat classic ballpark food. A full schedule of the team’s home and away games can be found on the Pittsfield Suns website. 413-445-7867. 105 Wahconah Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Sunday, August 3, 6pm-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Coop Concerts Summer Concert Series takes place weekly at Greenfield Energy Park. This week’s show features Orlen & Gabriel and Devlin Miles. Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic dinner with family and friends while listening to exciting live music. 50 Miles Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)
Monday, August 4th, 2014
Monday, August 4, 10am, 1pm, & 6:30pm – THEATER: Majestic Children’s Theater presents a production of Fantastic Mr. Fox this July and August. Kids and adults will enjoy seeing this classic Roald Dahl story come to life onstage! 413-747-7797. 131 Elm Street. West Springfield, MA. $
Monday, August 4, 10am-11:30am – SWIMMING: Families can join the Family Resource Center for a beach day at Margaret Lindley Park. Come have fun in the sun with friends! Tell the attendant that you are with the FRC and the parking fee will be waived. 413-664-4821. Cold Spring Road. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Monday, August 4, 10am-5pm – AVIATION/STEM: The New England Air Museum is offering fun, educational activities for kids every day this summer! From August 4-August 8, museum visitors can build their own bottle rockets. Design and build a rocket using an inverted water bottle and see how high it can go! This is a great way to get involved in a fun and creative engineering project. 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Road. Windsor Locks, CT. $
Monday, August 4, 1pm – MAGIC: The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame presents a magic show by Magic Dave. Come enjoy his high-energy show full of amazing magic tricks! 877-446-6752. 1000 Hall of Fame Avenue. Springfield, MA. $$
Monday, August 4, 2pm – FAMILY MOVIE: Families can come see Atlantis the Lost Empire (2001; rated PG) at the Westfield Athenaeum. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA.
Monday, August 4, 6pm-7:30pm – LAWN CONCERT: Pack a picnic and head to the S. White Dickinson Memorial Library for an outdoor performance by Old Country Road. 413-665-2170. 202 Chestnut Plain Road. Whately, MA.
ONGOING FOR MONDAYS (We are building up our summer ongoing list! To add your free ongoing event/activity here, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org)
- 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Northampton Parents Center is holding a Summer Park Play Date at Jackson Street School’s playground every Monday from June 30 until August 4. 413-582-2636. 120 Jackson Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)
- 10am – STORYTIME: Young children can attend Tales and Tunes storytime at the M.N. Spear Memorial Library every Monday in July and August. 413-259-1213. 10 Cooleyville Road. Shutesbury, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-5pm – HISTORY: Join the Trustees of Reservations every day for tours of Naumkeag’s Mansion House, a 44-room Gilded Age summer home. The Mansion has all the original artwork and furniture from the time period. Visitors can also tour the Fletcher Steele-designed gardens and kids can participate in a garden adventure quest! 413-298-3239 x3013. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. $
- 11am – HISTORY: Kids can experience a day in the life of a Shaker child on one of Hancock Shaker Village’s Young Shaker’s Tour, which take place every day at 11am this summer. Kids, accompanied by an adult, can learn about school for Shaker children, meet the barn animals, and do a hands-on activity. Check with your local library to see if you can get a museum pass to HSV! Young Shaker’s Tour is not included in cost of admission. 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield, MA. $-$$
- 11am-11:30am – CHILDREN’S PROGRAM: Every Monday at 11am, Moo-Licious Farm will offer an educational show for kids. Call for more info. 413-569-1700. 258 Feeding Hills Road. Southwick, MA.
- 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.
- 1pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Teens can do a fun arts and crafts project/experiment at theEmily Williston Memorial Library every Monday as part of the teen summer reading program. 413-529-1605. 9 Park Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE)
- 1:30pm-2:30pm – LITERACY: Every Monday in July and August, the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art offers a Summer Reading Buddies program with dogs from Bright Spot Therapy Dogs. Kids ages 4-11 can practice their reading skills by reading aloud to one of these trained therapy dogs, who offer nonjudgmental support and make a great audience. Free with museum admission. Call to sign up for a time slot. 413-658-1100. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. $
- 2pm-3pm – INSECT STUDIES: Every Monday in July and August, study the caterpillars in the Berkshire Museum‘s “Butterflies” exhibition and learn about their life stages at a “Caterpillar Chat.” Discover some of their amazing adaptations at this program. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, 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)
- 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.
Tuesday, August 5th, 2014
Tuesday, August 5, 10am – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Look Park’s Children’s Series is back this summer with tons of great performances! This week, the UNH Little Red Wagon will perform. 413-584-5457. 300 North Main Street. Florence, MA. $
Tuesday, August 5, 10am & 1pm – THEATER: Majestic Children’s Theater presents a production of Fantastic Mr. Fox this July and August. Kids and adults will enjoy seeing this classic Roald Dahl story come to life onstage! 413-747-7797. 131 Elm Street. West Springfield, MA. $
Tuesday, August 5, 10am-11am – STEM/ARTS: Kids ages 3-6 can come to the Dalton Free Public Library for a weekly program focused on integrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. There will be storytime, arts and crafts, and a snack. 413-684-6112. 462 Main Street. Dalton, MA. (FREE)
Tuesday, August 5, 2pm-3pm – STEM: Mad Science presents an afternoon of physics and chemistry experiments at Forbes Library! Come see this fun show and maybe even participate! 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)
Tuesday, August 5, 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 5 and up, this week’s book/activity is “Papertoy Monsters.” Registration is required by August 3. 514-534-7307. 9 College Street. South Hadley, MA. >$
Tuesday, August 5, 6pm & 7pm – STEM: The Museum of Science and the M.N. Spear Memorial Library present “Rockets: There and Back Again!” This hands-on workshop explores rockets and the science behind space exploration. Come design and build your own rockets at this fun and educational program! Takes place at Town Hall. Please call to register. 413-259-1213. 10 Cooleyville Road. Shutesbury, MA. (FREE)
Tuesday, August 5, 6:30pm – LAWN CONCERT: Musical Moments at Amelia’s Garden, the Amelia Park Ice Arena summer concert series, presents Broadway music by Dan Kane and Friends. This concert is fun for the whole family – bring lawn chairs, pack a picnic dinner, and enjoy the sunset while listening to great music. 413-568-2503. 21 South Broad Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE)
Tuesday, August 5, 6:30pm-8pm – COMMUNITY CARNIVAL: The West Springfield Town Carnival is presented by children who participated in the West Springfield Park and Recreation Department’s summer programs, and features carnival games, prizes, snacks, an art show, and more. Community fun for the whole family! Takes place at West Springfield Middle School. 413-263-3284. 31 Middle School Drive. West Springfield, 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 – PLAYGROUP: Join the South Hadley Family Center for playgroup every Tuesday morning in July and August. In July, come to Beachgrounds Park (Main Street) and in August, come to Buttery Brook Park (Willimansett Street). Rain cancels. South Hadley, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-11am – ARTS & CRAFTS: Kids can do a fun arts and crafts project/experiment at theEmily Williston Memorial Library every Tuesday as part of the youth summer reading program. 413-529-1605. 9 Park Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-12noon – ART: Kids ages 7 and up can draw and paint at the Norman Rockwell Museum‘s Summer Sketch Club every Tuesday this summer. Bring a sketchbook or drawing pad. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183 Stockbridge, MA. >$
- 10am-5pm – HISTORY: Join the Trustees of Reservations every day for tours of Naumkeag’s Mansion House, a 44-room Gilded Age summer home. The Mansion has all the original artwork and furniture from the time period. Visitors can also tour the Fletcher Steele-designed gardens and kids can participate in a garden adventure quest! 413-298-3239 x3013. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. $
- 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)
- 11am – CHILDREN’S CONCERT: Every Tuesday at 11am, Terry A La Berry and Friends will perform in the Roche Reading Park at the Lenox Library. Kids will love these fun interactive concerts! 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
- 11am – HISTORY: Kids can experience a day in the life of a Shaker child on one of Hancock Shaker Village’s Young Shaker’s Tour, which take place every day at 11am this summer. Kids, accompanied by an adult, can learn about school for Shaker children, meet the barn animals, and do a hands-on activity. Check with your local library to see if you can get a museum pass to HSV! Young Shaker’s Tour is not included in cost of admission. 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield, MA. $-$$
- 1:30pm-3pm – KNITTING: Spend time knitting with others and improving your knitting skills at the Emily Williston Memorial Library‘s knitting group. Runs every Tuesday. 413-529-1605. 9 Park Street. Easthampton, 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)
Wednesday, August 6th, 2014
Wednesday, August 6, 10am – STEM: Learn all about the air around us at the Westfield Athenaeum! Come learn and experiment with air. Please register in advance. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 6, 10am & 1pm – THEATER: Majestic Children’s Theater presents a production of Fantastic Mr. Fox this July and August. Kids and adults will enjoy seeing this classic Roald Dahl story come to life onstage! 413-747-7797. 131 Elm Street. West Springfield, MA. $
Wednesday, August 6, 10:30am – THEATER: New Century Theatre Kids! presents a production of Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, based on the book by Judith Viorst. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this performance of the classic kids’ book. Performance takes place in Theatre 14 in the Mendenhall Center for the Performing Arts on the Smith College campus. Call for reservations or more info. 413-585-3220. Green Street. Northampton, MA. $
Wednesday, August 6, 10:30am-11:30am – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: The Palmer Public Library presents a performance by the Toe Jam Puppet Band. This fun performance features music, dancing, and more for kids of all ages to enjoy! 413-283-3330. 1455 North Main Street. Palmer, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 6, 1pm – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Join the Berkshire Athenaeum for “Library Boogie,” a performance by Tom Knight Puppets. All ages will enjoy this fun puppet show! 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 6, 1pm-2pm – WRITING: Kids ages 7-10 can attend a writer’s workshop at the Dalton Free Public Library every Wednesday from July 16 through August 20. Here kids can explore the joy of fiction writing, narratives, poetry, and more. This is a great environment for kids to practice and discuss writing – the workshop is led by Sarah DiFazio, a 2nd-grade teacher and speech and language pathologist. 413-684-6112. 462 Main Street. Dalton, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 6, 2pm & 7pm – THEATER: Come see a performance of Hairspray JR. by the Barrington Stage Company at the Berkshire Museum. This performance is based on the film and Tony Award-winning musical and is appropriate for kids ages 5 and up. Children under age 5 are not permitted at the performance. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Wednesday, August 6, 2pm-4pm – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE/CELEBRATION: Celebrate the end of summer reading at the Lee Library with a performance by Meredyth Babcock of Marmalade Productions! Kids can bring reading logs for certificates and prizes – the grand prize is tickets to The Big E! There will also be ice cream sundaes. 413-243-0385. 100 Main Street. Lee, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 6, 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 discuss Rebecca Stead’s Liar and Spy. Keep kids interested in reading this summer with this fun book club! 413-534-7307. 9 College Street. South Hadley, MA.
Wednesday, August 6, 3pm-6pm – OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: The Housatonic Valley Association is offering a free paddle trip on the Housatonic River! Adults and kids ages 6 and up can paddle a section of the river in South Lee. Enjoy the river and explore this section, which is “ponded” by the Willow Mill Dam. More information available on the Housatonic Valley Association website. Registration is required; space is limited. 413-394-9796. South Lee, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 6, 6pm – HISTORY/NATURE STUDIES: Learn about the history and nature of Mt. Greylock at Bascom Lodge with DCR Interpretive Ranger Alec Gillman. Gillman will give a presentation covering the changes the mountain has gone through and how people reconciled their need to shape it and their desire to preserve its wilderness. 413-743-1591. 30 Rockwell Road. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 6, 6pm-8pm – LOCAL FOOD/AGRICULTURE: Ron Krupp, author of The Woodchuck’s Guide to Gardening, will be at the Greenfield Public Library to discuss the politics of food and farming. He will address such questions as: Why are so many U.S. farmers going broke? Why is there an obesity epidemic in our country? How can we provide local and sustainable food solutions in our communities? Older students interested in sustainability, food, farming, and food justice will enjoy this talk, which is co-sponsored by the World Eye Bookshop. 413-772-1544. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 6, 6pm-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Have fun with family and friends at the Positively Holyoke summer concert series at Heritage State Park every Wednesday from July 9 through August 6. This week, Trailer Trash will perform modern country music. There will also be a beer and wine garden. In case of rain, concert takes place on Thursday of the same week. Appleton Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 6, 6:30pm – LAWN CONCERT: The Porter-Phelps-Huntington House Museum’s summer concert series, Wednesday Folk Traditions, takes place every Wednesday this summer. August 6′s concert is by Achéray Ensemble, who will perform a blend of Latin American and jazz music. Bring a picnic blanket and chairs and enjoy this exciting performance. 413-584-4699. 130 River Drive. Hadley, MA. $
Wednesday, August 6, 6:30pm – CELEBRATION/SUMMER READING: Those who participated in the Pelham Library summer reading program can come to a summer reading finale party at the library! Bring your reading log for prizes, games, treats, and more. 413-253-0657. 2 South Valley Road. Pelham, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 6, 6:30pm-8pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: Explore the Beaver Ponds at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary! Sanctuary volunteer Butch Ptak will lead the expedition, and visitors will learn not only about the habits of beavers, but about the various types of wildlife who congregate at beaver ponds and the long-lasting effects that beaver ponds have upon habitats. This event is appropriate for all ages. 472 West Mountain Road. Lenox, MA. $
Wednesday, August 6, 6:30pm-8pm – ASTRONOMY: Alan Rifkin, President of the Springfield Stars Club, will present “Touring the Universe Through Binoculars” at the Storrs Library on August 6. This talk is great for beginning and amateur astronomers – it teaches how to explore the night sky using only a pair of binoculars! Best for older students interested in astronomy. Call to register. 413-565-4181. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, August 6, 7pm – SPORTS: Enjoy America’s pastime this summer at one of the Pittsfield Suns’ home games at Wahconah Park! Come watch the game and eat classic ballpark food. A full schedule of the team’s home and away games can be found on the Pittsfield Suns website. 413-445-7867. 105 Wahconah Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Wednesday, August 6, 7:30pm – FILM: Join Amherst Cinema for Big Screen Classics, where they screen a classic film each Sunday and following Wednesday. This week, see The Sound of Music (1965; rated G), one of the most popular movie musicals of all time. This is a great way for families to experience classic films on the big screen! 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, 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-11:30am – ART: The Norman Rockwell Museum hosts, “Creating Together: A Parent-Child Experience,” an art workshop featuring a gallery tour and hands-on art making. Each week brings a new theme and art style to explore. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183 Stockbridge, MA. ($)
- 10am – FAMILY MOVIE: Looking for a way to cool down or get out of the rain this summer? Cinemark’s Summer Movie Clubhouse screens a kids movie (rated G or PG) every Wednesday at 10am at their three Western Mass locations – Hadley (367 Russell Street), Springfield (1655 Boston Road), and West Springfield (864 Riverdale Street). Come see great movies at a great price! Western Massachusetts. >$
- 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)
- 10am-5pm – HISTORY: Join the Trustees of Reservations every day for tours of Naumkeag’s Mansion House, a 44-room Gilded Age summer home. The Mansion has all the original artwork and furniture from the time period. Visitors can also tour the Fletcher Steele-designed gardens and kids can participate in a garden adventure quest! 413-298-3239 x3013. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. $
- 10:30am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Kids can attend a fun storytime at the Leverett Library every Wednesday in July and August. 413-548-9220. 75 Montague Road. Leverett, 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 – HISTORY: Kids can experience a day in the life of a Shaker child on one of Hancock Shaker Village’s Young Shaker’s Tour, which take place every day at 11am this summer. Kids, accompanied by an adult, can learn about school for Shaker children, meet the barn animals, and do a hands-on activity. Check with your local library to see if you can get a museum pass to HSV! Young Shaker’s Tour is not included in cost of admission. 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield, MA. $-$$
- 11am – STORYTIME: Every Wednesday at 11am, head to the Dickinson Memorial Library for story hour. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA. (FREE)
- 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.
- 12noon-4pm – GAMES: All ages can come to the Dalton Free Public Library for games every Wednesday from July 9 until August 27. Board games, puzzles, card games, and more. 413-684-6112. 462 Main Street. Dalton, MA. (FREE)
- 1:30pm-4:30pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Learn about some fascinating local history at the Swift River Valley Historical Society every Wednesday and Sunday from 1:30pm-4:30pm through September 28. Tour the building, see interesting exhibits, and learn about the Quabbin Reservoir and the towns that were flooded for its creation. 978-544-6882. 40 Elm Street. New Salem, MA.
- 3pm – ARTS & CRAFTS/NATURE STUDIES: Every Wednesday at 3pm, head to the Dickinson Memorial Library for a nature craft. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA. (FREE)
- 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. (>$)
- 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. $
Thursday, August 7th, 2014
Thursday, August 7, 10am-11am – STORYTIME: Kids ages 0-5 can enjoy storytime at the Dalton Free Public Library every Thursday from July 10 until August 7. Come by for stories, snacks, and crafts. 413-684-6112. 462 Main Street. Dalton, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 7, 10:30am – THEATER: New Century Theatre Kids! presents a production of Skippyjon Jones in the Cirque de Olé, based on the books by Judith Byron Schachner. Performance takes place in Theatre 14 in the Mendenhall Center for the Performing Arts on the Smith College campus. Call for reservations or more info. 413-585-3220. Green Street. Northampton, MA. $
Thursday, August 7, 11am – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Come to the Lenox Library for BubbleMania! Casey Carle will perform this science, art, and comedy filled how. 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 7, 11am-1pm – SAFETY/TRUCKS: Families can head to Buttery Brook Park for their annual Big Rig Day, co-sponsored by the South Hadley Electric Department. Come see, climb into, and learn about fire trucks, police cars, ambulances, utility trucks, and more. 123 Willimansett Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 7, 1:30pm – STEM: Professor Daniel Aalberts of the Williams College Physics Department will talk about his work and show some experiments at the Milne Public Library. This is a great chance for kids to learn about science and what scientists do. 413-458-5369. 1095 Main Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 7, 2pm & 7pm – THEATER: Come see a performance of Hairspray JR. by the Barrington Stage Company at the Berkshire Museum. This performance is based on the film and Tony Award-winning musical and is appropriate for kids ages 5 and up. Children under age 5 are not permitted at the performance. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Thursday, August 7, 2pm-3pm – STEM: Students in grades 6-12 can experiment with some crazy concoctions at the Westfield Athenaeum! Please register in advance. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 7, 2pm-4pm – LEGOS: Kids ages 7-12 can come have fun with LEGOs with the Library LEGO Lady at the Carnegie Public Library. 413-863-3214. 201 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 7, 4:30pm-5:30pm – LEGOS: Come play with LEGOs and Duplos at the Monson Free Library! All ages are welcome. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA.
Thursday, August 7, 6pm-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Coop Concerts Summer Concert Series takes place weekly at Greenfield Energy Park. This week’s show features Abe Loomis and Stephanie Marshall and FriendsBring a blanket and enjoy a picnic dinner with family and friends while listening to exciting live music. 50 Miles Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 7, 6:30pm – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: It’s the end of summer reading at the Granby Free Public Library! Come hear Jay Mankita perform “The Amazing Time Travel Show” at the library. Kids will love this fun performance. 413-467-3320. 297 East State Street. Granby, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 7, 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 Acoustic Brew. 90 Park Street. Florence, MA.
Thursday, August 7, 7pm – FILM/LOCAL HISTORY: Ventfort Hall presents “Ventfort Films: A Berkshire Connection,” a series focusing on films that are in some way connected to the Berkshires. This week, come see Enslavement: The True Story of Fanny Kemble (2000; not rated), a film about a famous English actress who lived in Lenox and her marriage to a plantation owner. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. (SUGGESTED DONATION $)
Thursday, August 7, 7pm – SPORTS: Enjoy America’s pastime this summer at one of the Pittsfield Suns’ home games at Wahconah Park! Come watch the game and eat classic ballpark food. A full schedule of the team’s home and away games can be found on the Pittsfield Suns website. 413-445-7867. 105 Wahconah Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Thursday, August 7, 7pm-9pm – FAMILY MOVIE: The Berkshire Botanical Garden and the Berkshire International Film Festival present a screening of Babe (1995; rated G). Come see the movie, enjoy popcorn, and meet animals at the petting zoo! 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road. Stockbridge, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, August 7, 8:30pm – INSECT STUDIES: The Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation is holding a Sounds of the Summer Night program at Sheep Hill on August 7. All ages can learn about amazing insects like katydids, grasshoppers, crickets, and other bugs that sing at night. Walk around Sheep Hill and learn about these insects and why they make night sounds. Rain date 8/14. 413-458-2494. 671 Cold Spring Road. Williamstown, 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.
- 10am-5pm – HISTORY: Join the Trustees of Reservations every day for tours of Naumkeag’s Mansion House, a 44-room Gilded Age summer home. The Mansion has all the original artwork and furniture from the time period. Visitors can also tour the Fletcher Steele-designed gardens. 413-298-3239 x3013. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, 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.
- 11am – HISTORY: Kids can experience a day in the life of a Shaker child on one of Hancock Shaker Village’s Young Shaker’s Tour, which take place every day at 11am this summer. Kids, accompanied by an adult, can learn about school for Shaker children, meet the barn animals, and do a hands-on activity. Check with your local library to see if you can get a museum pass to HSV! Young Shaker’s Tour is not included in cost of admission. 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield, MA. $-$$
- 1pm-3pm – PLAYGROUP: Babies can have fun and make friends at the Forbes Library‘s weekly baby playgroup. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA.
- 2pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Kids can do an art project inspired by the Berkshire Museum‘s Butterflies exhibition every Thursday in July and August. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
- 2pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Learn about art at Amherst College’s Mead Art Museum‘s “It’s Cool at the Mead” series of free gallery talks, every Thursday at 2pm and Friday at 11am from June 19-August 22. The gallery talks cover a different topic each time, so take a break from the summer heat and come learn about the Museum’s wonderful collection. 413-542-2335. 41 Quadrangle Drive. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
- 2pm-5pm – HISTORY: Kids can discover Naumkeag every Thursday this summer! Take a special children’s tour of the Gilded Age Cottage, play Edwardian-era lawn games, and spend time in the gardens. This is a great chance to get kids interested in history! 413-298-8138. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. $
- 2:30pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Join the Norman Rockwell Museum for Historic Property Walks every Thursday this summer. Explore the Museum’s 36-acre site and many historic buildings. Free with museum admission. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183 Stockbridge, MA. $$
- 4pm – 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. $$
- 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 – KNITTING: Every Thursday at 6pm, the Dickinson Memorial Library will hold a knitting and crocheting group for experts, beginners, all skill levels. Come improve your skills, share tips, and learn from others. 413-498-2455. 115 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)
- 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)
Friday, August 8th, 2014
Friday, August 8, 10am-4pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: The Children’s Museum at Holyoke (10am-4pm) and the Volleyball Hall of Fame (12noon-4:30pm) are offering free admission as part of Highland Street Foundation’s Free Fun Friday series! Come explore both museums and see what they have to offer. 413-536-5437. 444 Dwight Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)
Friday, August 8, 10am-5pm – CRAFT FAIR: The 41st Berkshire Crafts Fair takes place August 8-August 10 at Monument Mountain Regional High School. There will be work by 89 different artists, including jewelry, furniture, ceramics, textiles, glassware, and more. This is a great place to find work by talented artisans from all over the country. 600 Stockbridge Road. Great Barrington, MA. >$
Friday, August 8, 10am-7pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Families can explore the Clark Art Institute for free this Friday thanks to the Highland Street Foundation’s Free Fun Friday series! This is a unique opportunity to explore this great local museum and its exhibitions. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Friday, August 8, 10:30am – THEATER: New Century Theatre Kids! presents a production of Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day, based on the book by Judith Viorst. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this performance of the classic kids’ book. Performance takes place in Theatre 14 in the Mendenhall Center for the Performing Arts on the Smith College campus. Call for reservations or more info. 413-585-3220. Green Street. Northampton, MA. $
Friday, August 8, 11am – BIRD STUDIES: Join wildlife rehabilitator Tom Ricardi at the Berkshire Botanical Garden for a birds of prey program. He will teach about the natural history, behaviors, habitats, and more of these unique birds, and audience members will have a chance to see them up close. This program is appropriate for all ages. Free with Garden admission. 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road. Stockbridge, MA. $
Friday, August 8, 11am – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: Enjoy a comedy/magic performance by Ed Popielarczyk at the Monson Free Library! All ages can come celebrate the end of summer reading at this fun performance. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA.
Friday, August 8, 2pm-3pm – STEM: Kids in grades 5 and up can learn all about forensic science at Forbes Library. Learn about the science behind crime scene investigation at this fun program! 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)
Friday, August 8, 3pm-5pm – FOOD DRIVE: The Franklin County Hunger Task Force is holding their 10th Annual Fill the Belly Bus Food Drive on the Greenfield Town Common on August 8 from 3pm-5pm. Businesses, organizations, workplaces, and individuals are welcome to donate by bringing non-perishable food and personal care items to the bus. This food drive is especially important for families this time of year because many summer meal programs end before the school year begins, leaving a gap in food assistance for many families in the community. The donations benefit five emergency food programs in Franklin County. This is a great chance for families to help out their fellow community members and an excellent opportunity to teach kids about food security in our communities. 413-376-1179. Greenfield, MA. (DONATION)
Friday, August 8, 4pm – AGRICULTURAL FAIR: The 159th Middlefield Fair takes place this weekend! Come for a weekend full of entertainment, truck pulls, animal shows, contests, community meals, rides, games, a petting zoo, and much more! The Middlefield Fair is fun for the whole family. 413-623-6027. 7 Bell Road. Middlefield, MA. >$
Friday, August 8, 4:30pm-7:15pm – TEEN MOVIE: The Mason Library is screening a movie for teens – The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013; rated PG-13). Come enjoy the movie and eat some pizza. 413-464-5095. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Friday, August 8, 6pm – LAWN CONCERT: Pack a picnic blanket and chairs and enjoy a concert by Colour 9 with Paul DiLego at the North Adams Public Library! This is part of the library’s Music at the Mansion summer lawn concert series. 413-662-3133. 74 Church Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Friday, August 8, 6:30pm-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Easthampton’s summer concert series, Arts in the Park, takes place in Millside Park every Friday night. This week, hear Mark VI Polka perform. Bring a picnic blanket and the whole family and enjoy the show! 2 Ferry Street. Easthampton, MA.
Friday, August 8, 7pm – THEATER: The Berkshire Theatre Group presents Seussical at the Colonial Theatre. This is the 9th annual production of the play, which combines Dr. Seuss’ most beloved stories into one fun musical starring local actors of all ages. Fans of the Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, the Whos of Whoville, Gertrude McFuzz, and others will enjoy this unique and exciting performance. Tickets available in advance. 413-997-4444. 111 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Friday, August 8, 7pm – THEATER: Come see a performance of Hairspray JR. by the Barrington Stage Company at the Berkshire Museum. This performance is based on the film and Tony Award-winning musical and is appropriate for kids ages 5 and up. Children under age 5 are not permitted at the performance. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $$
Friday, August 8, 7pm – SPORTS: Enjoy America’s pastime this summer at one of the Pittsfield Suns’ home games at Wahconah Park! Come watch the game and eat classic ballpark food. A full schedule of the team’s home and away games can be found on the Pittsfield Suns website. 413-445-7867. 105 Wahconah Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
Friday, August 8, 7:30pm – THEATER: Red Door Theatre presents a production of The Mystery of Griswald Theatre, an original, dark comedy about a London theater that is haunted by the ghost of William Shakespeare. Please call for ticket reservations. 413-789-2026. 152 South Westfield Street. Feeding Hills, MA. $
Friday, August 8, 7:30pm-9pm – CONCERT: Celebrate the life of Pete Seeger at “Singing for Food and Freedom: Carrying on the Legacy of Pete Seeger” at the NOFA Summer Conference. This concert/sing-along, which takes place in the Cape Cod Lounge on the UMass Amherst campus, features performances by Charlie King, Sarah Stockwell Arthen, and Ben Grosscup. 413-658-5374. 41 Campus Center Way. Amherst, MA. (SUGGESTED DONATION >$)
Friday, August 8, 7:30pm – FILM/SUSTAINABILITY: Join the NOFA Summer Conference for a screening of two films in the UMass Amherst Campus Center. This first film, at 7:30pm, is Forces of Nature: The David Suzuki Movie and the second, at 9pm, is Queen of the Sun. Each of these films would be interesting to older students interested in sustainability. 1 Campus Center Way. Amherst, MA.
Friday, August 8, 8pm – THEATER: Exit 7 Players present a production of The Wizard of Oz starring young actors from the area. All ages will like seeing this classic play. Tickets available in advance. 413-583-4301. 37 Chestnut Street. Ludlow, MA. $$
ONGOING FOR FRIDAYS (We are building up our summer ongoing list! To add your free ongoing event/activity here, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org)
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)
- 10am-5pm – HISTORY: Join the Trustees of Reservations every day for tours of Naumkeag’s Mansion House, a 44-room Gilded Age summer home. The Mansion has all the original artwork and furniture from the time period. Visitors can also tour the Fletcher Steele-designed gardens. 413-298-3239 x3013. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. $
- 10:30am – STORYTIME: Families can attend the “Family Frolic Storytime” every Friday this summer at Gaylord Memorial Library! Enjoy stories, musical plays, and crafts. 413-538-5047. 47 College Street. South Hadley, MA.
- 10:30am-11:30am – STEM: South Berkshire Kids is hosting a science, technology, engineering, and math program every Friday at the Mason Library for kids ages 3-5. 413-464-5095. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 11am – HISTORY: Kids can experience a day in the life of a Shaker child on one of Hancock Shaker Village’s Young Shaker’s Tour, which take place every day at 11am this summer. Kids, accompanied by an adult, can learn about school for Shaker children, meet the barn animals, and do a hands-on activity. Check with your local library to see if you can get a museum pass to HSV! Young Shaker’s Tour is not included in cost of admission. 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield, MA. $-$$
- 11am – 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)
- 11am-12noon – STEM: The West Springfield Public Library is offering “Science Rocks,” a science program for ages 9-15. Takes place every Friday from July 11 until August 8. First session meets Thursday, July 3 instead of Friday. Please register. 413-736-4561 x3. 511 Main Street. West Springfield, MA. (FREE)
- 5pm-8pm – LAWN CONCERT: Enjoy a free outdoor concert after hours at The Mount every Friday this summer. 413-551-5100. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
- 6:30pm – LAWN CONCERT: The Chesterfest Americana Music Series runs every Friday until August 29. Bring lawn chairs and a blanket and enjoy live bluegrass, folk, and country music on the West Porch of Chesterwood. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. Kids get in free. 413-298-3579 x25210. 4 Williamsville Road. Stockbridge, MA. $
Hilltown Families’ list of Weekly Suggested Events is supported in part by a grant from the Agawam, Buckland, Cummington, Deerfield, Goshen, Plainfield, Shelburne and Westhampton Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
