Hilltown Families 
Berkshire Family Fun: March 2015
Berkshire County Highlights for Families:
March 2015
Find out about community events and learning opportunities happening throughout Berkshire County for the month of March. We’ll be adding to this list as the month progresses, so be sure to check back each week. Do you have an event you’d like to include in this list? Email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org.
To find out what’s happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, check our comprehensive list of Weekly Suggested Events, published every Thursday! There you will also find our list of ongoing weekday playgroups, storyhours and events both in Berkshire County and throughout the region.
“I appreciate the extensive calendar listings and postings on Hilltown Families. They cover a wide geographic area and inspire me to visit new museums and other places and also remind me to return to some old favorites.” – Bridget Spann (Williamstown, MA)
Berkshire Family Fun is also supported in part by a grant from the Monterey, Northern Berkshire, Pittsfield and Windsor Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
North Berkshire
Adams | Cheshire | Florida | Hancock | Lanesborough | Monterey | North Adams | Williamstown | Windsor
Central Berkshire | South Berkshire
Support Hilltown Families!
Fridays, 10am-11am – PLAYGROUP: The Family Resource Center is offering a Play and Learn Group for ages walking to 5 every Friday at the Adams Youth Center. 413-664-4821. East Street. Adams, MA. (FREE)
Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum. 413-743-7121. 67 East Road. Adams, MA.
Abbot School — 56 North Country Road.
Sunday, March 15, 2pm-4pm – MAPLE SYRUP: The Jewish Federation of the Berkshires is hosting a family fun and Good Deeds Day celebration at Ioka Valley Farm on March 15. Federation and PJ Library families can come learn all about maple sugaring at this fun event. Learn how sap becomes syrup, tour the sugar shack, do a Jewish tree-themed scavenger hunt, hear stories, feed chickens and goats, and enjoy delicious maple snacks. This is a great way to learn about maple sugaring, have fun, and do a good deed – donate supplies to the Berkshire Humane Society. A list of much-needed supplies and more information on the event can be found here. 413-442-4360. 3475 Route 43. Hancock, MA. (FREE)
Hancock Shaker Village. 1843 W Housatonic St. 413-443-0188
- Fridays, 10am – PLAYGROUP: The Family Resource Center is offering a Play and Learn Group every Friday at Lanesborough Town Hall. 413-664-4821. 83 North Main Street. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE)
Bascom Lodge 413-743-1591. 30 Rockwell Road.
Lanesborough Library — 413-499-5981. 83 North Main Street.
Mt. Greylock — 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road.
Bidwell House Museum – 413-528-6888. 100 Art School Road.
Ashintully — 413-298-3239. Sodom Road
- Mondays, 5:30pm-6:30pm – PLAYGROUP: The Family Resource Center is offering a Gym Group for ages walking to 8yr every Monday at the Haskins Center. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- Tuesdays, 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Family Resource Center is offering a Play and Learn Group every Tuesday at the Haskins Center. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- Tuesdays, 3:30pm-4:30pm – LEGOS: The Family Resource Center is offering a LEGO group for ages 4-8 the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. 413-664-4821. 74 Church Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- Tuesdays, 5:30pm-6:30pm – PLAYGROUP: The Family Resource Center is offering a Play and Learn Group every Tuesday evening at the Greylock Apartments’ Community Room for children walking age to age 5. 413-664-4821. Angeli Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- Wednesdays 10am-11am – PLAYGROUP: The Family Resource Center is offering a Play and Learn Group for toddlers at the Haskins Center. For ages 1-2.5. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- Thursdays 11:30am-12:30pm – PLAYGROUP: The Family Resource Center is offering a Gym Group for ages walking to 5 every Thursday at the Haskins Center. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Friday, March 6, 8pm – DANCE STUDIES: MASS MoCA presents a performance of “Available Light” this March. Choreographer Lucinda Childs, who is currently an artist-in-residence at MASS MoCA, will perform a reimagined version of her famous 1983 performance with composer John Adams and architect Frank Gehry. There will be a Q&A after the show. Best for older students and adults interested in dance. Tickets available in advance. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. ($$)
Saturday, March 7, 8pm – DANCE STUDIES: MASS MoCA presents a performance of “Available Light” this March. Choreographer Lucinda Childs, who is currently an artist-in-residence at MASS MoCA, will perform a reimagined version of her famous 1983 performance with composer John Adams and architect Frank Gehry. There will be a Q&A after the show. Best for older students and adults interested in dance. Tickets available in advance. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. ($$)
Sunday, March 8, 3pm – DANCE STUDIES: MASS MoCA presents a performance of “Available Light” this March. Choreographer Lucinda Childs, who is currently an artist-in-residence at MASS MoCA, will perform a reimagined version of her famous 1983 performance with composer John Adams and architect Frank Gehry. There will be a Q&A after the show. Best for older students and adults interested in dance. Tickets available in advance. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. ($$)
Monday, March 9, 1pm-2:50pm – ICE SKATING: Public ice skating at the Peter W. Foote Vietnam Veterans Memorial Skating Rink. 413-664-8185. 1267 South Church Street. North Adams, MA.
Friday, March 20, 1:30pm-2:30pm – PARENT WORKSHOP: Parents/caregivers can attend a free workshop at the Haskins Center on March 20. Come learn about finances and stretching your dollar at this budgeting workshop, “Dollar Cents.” Learn the basics of banking and more at this highly informative workshop. Transportation and childcare available – please register. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Peter W. Foote Vietnam Veterans Memorial Skating Rink. 413-664-8185. 1267 South Church Street.
North Adams Farmers’ Market 413-664-6180. St. Anthony Drive & Route 8.
Western Gateway Heritage State Park 413-663-6312. 115 State Street.
North Adams Public Library 413-662-3133. 74 Church Street.
MASS MoCA 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way.
Haskins Community Center 413-664-4821. 210 State Street.
Natural Bridge State Park — 413-663-6392. McCauley Road..
- Mondays, 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Family Resource Center is offering a Play and Learn Group every Monday at the Williamstown Youth Center. 413-664-4821. School Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
- First Friday of the Month, 10am-11am – PLAYGROUP: Child Care of the Berkshires, Inc. is offering a free baby group for babies and caretakers at the Williamstown Youth Center the first Friday of every month. 413-663-6593. School Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, March 1, 1:30pm – FILM/FOOD STUDIES: Fresh Fest is a film festival taking place at Images Cinema, featuring films focused on food and sustainability. Come see Food for Change (2012), a documentary focused on food co-ops as a force for dynamic social and economic change in American culture. Best for older students interested in documentary film, food, and sustainability. 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE/DONATIONS ACCEPTED)
Monday, March 2, 7pm – FILM: The Williams College French Film Festival continues at Images Cinema with a screening of Hold Back (Rengaine) (2012; not rated). The film is a drama about a couple that wants to get married but faces resistance from their families due to their different ethnic backgrounds. Older teens interested in film studies can attend this series to learn about conflict and violence in new French film. Please note, this film is not rated and may not be appropriate for viewers under a certain age. Check online or call the theater to find out more about it. 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, March 5, 10am-11am – NATURE STUDIES: The Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation is offering a preschool nature program, beginning March 5 and running for four weeks. The classes include stories, crafts, and outdoor play/exploration. This is a good way to help your preschooler explore the outdoors and make new friends. A parent or guardian must accompany every two children. Call to pre-register. 413-458-2494. 671 Cold Spring Road. Williamstown, MA. ($$)
Saturday, March 7, 10:30am-6:30pm – TED TALK: Williams College will screen TEDxManhattan on March 7. Come to the campus’ Wege Auditorium for the free screening of talks on the topic of “Changing the Way We Eat.” Older students interested in food studies and sustainability will enjoy hearing these interesting and informative talks and seeing relevant film clips. 880 Main Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, March 7, 6pm-9pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Join The Clark for Dinner and the Show, a special evening that includes a private gallery tour of Machine Age Modernism: Prints from the Daniel Cowin Collection, and a prix fixe meal by Cafe 7. Reservations are required. 413-458-0524. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. ($$$)
Monday, March 9, 7pm – FILM: As part of their Classic Series, Images Cinema will screen 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968; rated G). This classic sci-fi film, directed by Stanley Kubrick, is about humans and computers. The film series is a rare chance to catch these classic movies on the big screen! 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street. Williamstown, MA. ($)
Monday, March 9, 7pm – FILM STUDIES/CULTURAL STUDIES: Williams College presents the South Asian Film Series: Highlights of Indian Cinema 1955-2013. Film fans can come see key films from the past six decades at this series. On March 9, see Umrao Jaan (1982), which is based on an Urdu novel from 1899 and features classical Indian music. Older students will enjoy this film series, and can learn about both the history of film and Indian culture through the screenings. Takes place in Paresky Center Auditorium. 413-597-3131. 39 Chapin Hall Drive. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, March 14, 9:30am-12:30pm – HISTORY/RESTORATION: The Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation and the Williamstown Historical Museum are working together to restore an antique horse-drawn worksled. Older students can assist with the restoration and can learn about the sled and what it was used for in the past. 413-458-2494. 671 Cold Spring Road. Williamstown, MA. (VOLUNTEER)
Saturday, March 14, 10am – ART STUDIES: Start With Art is The Clark’s series of programs for preschool students. There will be themed talks, gallery guides, and art-making activities related to theme of flowers and plants. Best for children ages 3-6 and their parents/caregivers. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, March 14, 11am-2pm – MAPLE SYRUP: Learn all about modern-day and historical methods for gathering maple syrup at Williams College’s Maplefest at the Hopkins Memorial Forest. This annual event lets community members of all ages get involved in the syrup-making process. Come to Maplefest and visit a working sugar house, observe the finishing and bottling of syrup, tap a tree, gather sap, taste syrup, and more. There will also be kids’ activities, videos, and other fun things to do. 413-597-4277. 271 NW Hill Road. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, March 19, 12noon – ART STUDIES: Tour the Williams College Museum of Art‘s exhibition, Three Centuries of American Art, with curator Kevin Murphy. Learn about American art by touring this chronological installation. Best for older students and adults interested in art. 413- 15 Lawrence Hall Drive. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Monday, March 23, 7pm – FILM: As part of their Classic Series, Images Cinema will screen Chinatown (1974; rated R). The film is a film noir classic, directed by Roman Polanski. The film series is a rare chance to catch these classic movies on the big screen. Best for older teens interested in film studies. 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street. Williamstown, MA. ($)
Milne Public Library 413-458-5369. 1095 Main Street.
Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation 413-458-2494. 671 Cold Spring Road.
Clark Art Institute 413-458-2303. 225 South Street.
Images Cinema. 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street.
Sweet Brook Farm — 413-884-4246. 580 Oblong Road.
Williams College Museum of Art — 413-597-2376. 15 Lawrence Hall Drive.
Williamstown Youth Center — 413-458-5925. 270 Cole Avenue.
Saturday, March 7, 10am-1pm – SNOWSHOEING: Explore Windsor on snowshoes with Mass Audubon and Aimee Gelinas of Tamarack Hollow Nature and Cultural Center. Learn how to identify trees and the tracks and sign of animals on this 2-mile hike. Call to register. 413-584-3009. Savoy Hollow Road. Windsor, MA. ($$)
Central Berkshire
Becket | Dalton | Hinsdale | Lee | Lenox | Peru | Pittsfield | Richmond | Stockbridge | Tyringham | Washington | West Stockbridge
North Berkshire | South Berkshire
Support Hilltown Families!
Dalton Free Public Library 0 413-684-6112. 462 Main Street.
Crane Museum of Papermaking — Visit the Crane Museum of Papermaking to learn about the history of papermaking at Crane since the early 1800’s. Located on the banks of the Housatonic River, the building itself is a museum! This is a great opportunity to learn about local history. The museum is open weekdays from 1-5pm. — 413-684-2600. 30 South Street. (FREE)
Tuesday, March 3, 10:30am-11:15am – LITERACY: You and your child can work together to develop pre-reading skills at the Lee Library’s “Every Child Ready to Read” workshop. The workshop is for kids birth-age through five years and runs every Tuesdays from March 3 through 31 (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. 100 Main Street. Lee, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, March 28, 1pm-3:30pm – ORIGAMI: Learn about the art of paper folding and try it out for yourself at the Good Purpose Gallery. This is a fun chance to learn origami! 413-394-5045. 40 Main Street. Lee, MA. ($)
Spectrum Playhouse – 413-394-5023. 20 Franklin Street.
South Berkshire Kids – 413-464-5095. 100 Main Street.
Lee Library – 413-243-0385. 100 Main Street.
Thursday, March 5, 6pm-7:30pm – NATURE STUDIES: Mass Audubon is holding a program for families at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary – “Wildlife, Pollutants, and Watersheds – A Sackett Brook Restoration Family Program.” At this program, families can learn how pollutants enter rivers, the role of dams, and how to restore rivers. Participants will build model habitats, test the models with different scenarios, and learn what makes a resilient ecosystem. Call to register. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
Friday, March 6, 6pm-8:30pm – SNOWSHOEING: Explore Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary at a Moonlight Snowshoe Hike with Mass Audubon. Ages 7 and up can explore the Sanctuary’s trails by moonlight and then enjoy snacks afterwards. Children can attend for free. Call to register. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road. Lenox, MA. ($$)
Wednesday, March 11, 10am-1pm – HIKING: Join the Berkshire Natural Resources Council for a hike/snowshoe at North Yokun Ridge. This moderate, 3.5-mile hike takes you along this popular trail, which features overlooks, cellar holes, and a view of Monks Pond. 413-499-0596. Richmond-Lenox Road. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, March 14, 3:30pm-5:30pm – MUSIC/CULTURAL STUDIES: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Ventfort Hall! Chris Scott and Woody Printz will play Irish tunes on the dobro, fiddle, banjo, guitar, bass, and harmonica. There will also be Irish-themed foods like tea and leprechaun lemonade. Older students and adults will enjoy this lively and educational musical event. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. ($$)
Thursday, March 19, 6pm – ASTRONOMY: Learn about and explore the night sky at the Lenox Library with amateur astronomer Rick Costello. He will present a lecture titled, “How the Stars Created the Elements,” and participants will then have the opportunity to view the night sky through a 16″ reflecting telescope, which will be used to spot Jupiter, the Orion Nebula, and several galaxies. Anyone interested in astronomy will love this program! 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street. Lenox, MA.
Saturday, March 21, 8pm-11:30pm – CONTRA DANCE: Lenox’s monthly contra dance takes place February 21 at the Lenox Community Center. There will be music and a caller. Families can come dance together at this fun series – there will be an introduction for beginners and all dances will be taught. 65 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. ($)
Saturday, March 28, 10am & 1pm – EASTER/ARTS & CRAFTS: Learn the traditional Eastern European craft of Slavic Easter Egg Decorating at Ventfort Hall. This annual demonstration and workshop teaches you the history and basics of this time-honored craft. For ages 12 and up. Please pre-register. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. ($$$)
Saturday, March 28, 1:30pm-3pm – BIRD STUDIES/DIY: Families can join Mass Audubon for a Bluebird Nest Box Building Workshop at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Build pre-cut nest boxes to help provide much-needed nesting sites for cavity nesting birds like bluebirds, tree swallows, house wrens, chickadees, and others. Participants will also learn how and where to mount the boxes, and will learn about Eastern Bluebird conservation efforts. Call to register. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road. Lenox, MA. ($$)
Summer at Berkshire Montessori
Lenox Dale, MA ♦ The 40-acre campus is home to a variety of natural habitats waiting to be discovered! Summer at Berkshire Montessori encompasses art, movement, music, and science through exploration of the natural world. Each day, children will discover new and fun ways to explore the outdoors, making use of our woodland trails and organic garden. MSB offers two-week sessions for ages 3-6, and one-week sessions for ages 6-12. Session themes include: Comic Book Camp, Glorious Gardeners, Art Imitates Nature, Mapping My World, The Doctrine of Signatures, and much more!
Dates: Jun 22-Aug 14; Age/Grade Range: 3-12yo
Contact: 413-637-3662 ♦ kehr@berkshiremontessori.org ♦ berkshiremontessori.org/summer
Lenox Library — 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street.
Lenox Historical Society — Main Street.
The Mount – 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street.
Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary – 472 West Mountain Road.
Shakespeare and Company – 413-637-3353. 70 Kemble Street.
Ventfort Hall – 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street.
- Saturdays, 12:30pm – ANIMAL STUDIES: It’s chow time at the Berkshire Museum! Come watch museum staff some of the aquarium’s most exciting residents. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
- Fridays, 11am-11:30am – STORYTIME: The Berkshire Museum’s weekly Museum Adventures program features stories, songs, dancing, play time, scavenger hunts, and more, and is open to kids 18 months to 3 years. It’s a great way for young kids to explore some of what the museum has to offer! Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. $
- Wednesdays, 10:30am-11am – STEM: The Berkshire Museum is offering a Parent/Child STEM Session the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. Come explore science, technology, engineering, and math through books, hands-on activities, and play. Registration is required. 413-443-7171 x21. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
- Mondays, 10am-11am – PLAYGROUP: Join the Pittsfield CFCE for “Fun on the Farm” every Monday at Herman Melville’s Arrowhead. 413-499-4809. 780 Holmes Road. Pittsfield, MA.
- Tuesdays, 9:30am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: Join the Pittsfield CFCE every Tuesday for a playgroup at Egremont Elementary School. 413-499-4809. Pittsfield, MA.
Tuesday, March 3, 9:30am-11am – COMPUTERS: The Berkshire Athenaeum is offering a class on cloud computing. Learn about cloud computing services like Apple’s iCloud, Google Drive, Dropbox, and Microsoft’s OneDrive. Best for older students and adults interested in learning more about computers. Pre-registration is required. 413-499-9480 x202. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Tuesday, March 3, 6pm – FILM/LAW: The Berkshire Athenaeum presents their film series, “Cinema of Law,” this March. The series consists of films on legal topics with commentary by local law professionals. The series kicks off on March 3 with a screening of Thou Shalt Not: Sex, Sin, and Censorship in Pre-Code Hollywood (2008; not rated) and a talk by attorney Lou Oggiani. The documentary is about the history of the Hays Code and what it meant for Hollywood. Best for older students interested in law. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA.
Tuesday, March 10, 6pm – FILM/LAW: The Berkshire Athenaeum presents their film series, “Cinema of Law,” this March. The series consists of films on legal topics with commentary by local law professionals. The series continues on March 10 with a screening of Runaway Jury (2003; rated PG-13) and a talk by attorney Michael McCarthy. The film, which is based on a novel by John Grisham, is about gun control and examines the integrity of the jury system in the United States. Best for older teens interested in law. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA.
Saturday, March 14, TBA – ST. PATRICK’S DAY: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Bousquet Mountain at their 18th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Slush Run and Fireworks Spectacular. There will be activities for all ages, including an obstacle course, Irish Olympics, a cookie race, a torch light parade (8:30pm), fireworks (9pm), and a slush run. Sign up the morning of the event. 413-442-8316. 101 Dan Fox Drive. Pittsfield, MA.
Saturday, March 14, 7pm – FILM: The Berkshire Museum is screening the Oscar-nominated film Song of the Sea (2014; rated PG), which was nominated for Best Animated Film and is based on the Irish legend of the Selkies. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. ($)
Sunday, March 15, 1:30pm & 7pm – FILM: The Berkshire Museum is screening the Oscar-nominated film Song of the Sea (2014; rated PG), which was nominated for Best Animated Film and is based on the Irish legend of the Selkies. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. ($)
Monday, March 16, 1:30pm & 7pm – FILM: The Berkshire Museum is screening the Oscar-nominated film Song of the Sea (2014; rated PG), which was nominated for Best Animated Film and is based on the Irish legend of the Selkies. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. ($)
Tuesday, March 17, 6pm – FILM/LAW: The Berkshire Athenaeum presents their film series, “Cinema of Law,” this March. The series consists of films on legal topics with commentary by local law professionals. The series continues on March 17 with a screening of Rashomon (1950; not rated) and a talk by the Honorable Joan McMenemy. The film, directed by Akira Kurosawa, is a complex story revolving around a violent crime and the accounts of different witnesses. Best for older teens interested in law. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA.
Friday, March 20, 3pm-4:30pm – WRITING: The Berkshire Museum presents, “Think Like an Editor: How to Make a Good Manuscript Great,” a writing workshop that’s part of the Berkshire Festival of Women Writers. Writer/editor Robin Catalano will discuss the basics of editing, what professional editors do, and more. Older students interested in writing and editing can learn from this engaging workshop. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, March 21, 10am-11am – CULINARY ARTS: Are you experienced in the kitchen and looking to learn or improve your knife skills? Visitors to the Berkshire Museum can learn knife skills at the Learner’s Lab on March 21. A butcher from Red Apple Butchers will teach you about safe/proper use of knives, sharpening methods, uses of different knives, cutting techniques, and more. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. ($)
Tuesday, March 24, 6pm – FILM/LAW: The Berkshire Athenaeum presents their film series, “Cinema of Law,” this March. The series consists of films on legal topics with commentary by local law professionals. The series continues on March 17 with a screening of The Rape of Europa (2006; not rated) and a talk by Attorney Paul Rapp. The documentary tells the story of the destruction and survival of Europe’s art treasures during the Third Reich and World War II. Best for older teens interested in law and history. 413-499-9480. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA.
Saturday, March 28, 11am-12noon – CHEMISTRY: Be a mad scientist at the Berkshire Museum! Along with the help of the museum’s very own crazy chemist, kids can learn how to do exciting and surprising (and safe!) experiments with regular household materials. Kitchen Kaboom! is totally kid-safe, but adults must accompany participating scientists. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. ($)
Berkshire Museum Summer Camps
Pittsfield, MA ♦ This summer the Berkshire Museum presents an exciting variety of summer camp offerings, including hands-on experiences in robotics, theater, animation, forensics, natural science, and even magic! All of our camps reflect the interdisciplinary focus of the Museum by combining STEM skills with creative experiences. Whether your child is a budding star of the stage or a future robotics engineer (or both!) we’ve got the program for them! One week sessions include half and full day options for kids entering Kindergarten through 6th grade. New this summer is a counselor-in-training program for teens age 13 and up.
Dates: Jun 29-Aug 21; Age/Grade Range: K-6th grade
Contact: 413-443-7171 x360 ♦ frontdesk@berkshiremuseum.org ♦ berkshiremuseum.org
KidsAct!
Pittsfield, MA ♦ KidsAct! gives young performers, ages 7-14, the opportunity to work with experienced theatre instructors as they create, rehearse and perform their own original plays & musicals. The two-week DramaKids! program (6/29-7/10 or 8/3-14), focuses on building acting and improv skills through fun theatre games as well as the creation of original plays. The three-week BroadwayKids! program (7/13-31) adds the elements of music and movement as students work with professional theatre artists to learn Broadway songs and dance numbers as a part of their original musical. Register for two or more sessions and save 10%! Classes meet M-F, 9 AM-3PM at: Zion Church, 74 First Street, Pittsfield. Extended-care available from 7:30AM – 5:30PM
Dates: Jun 29 – Aug 14; Age/Grade Range: 7-14yo
Contact: 413-997-6112 ♦ education@barringtonstageco.org ♦ www.barringtonstageco.org
Rock On
Pittsfield, MA ♦ Rock On is launching a new String Chamber Music Program directed by violinist Alla Zerniskaya. For violin, viola, cello & double bass players, String Chamber Music will run parallel to Rock On programs in rock, blues & jazz for guitar, bass, keyboards, brass, winds, & drums. At Rock On, the emphasis is on developing musicianship through ensemble playing. All levels are welcome. Instrument training classes are held daily. Crossover workshops are offered in different musical genres to bring students together in large ensembles to further expand knowledge, increase creativity, & enhance technical skills. Workshops in Songwriting, Recording Technology, & Technical Theater are open to all students. Beginners welcome! Berkshire Community College.
Dates: Jul 13-Jul 24; Age/Grade Range: 8-21yo
Contact: 413-329-2280 ♦ rockonworkshopma@gmail.com ♦ rockonworkshop.org
The Berkshire Athenaeum 413-499-4809. 1 Wendell Avenue.
Berkshire Humane Society 413-447-7878. 214 Barker Road.
Berkshire Lyric Theatre – 413-499-0258
Berkshire Museum – 413-443-7171 x10. 39 South Street.
Berkshire Music School — 413-442-1411. 30 Wendell Ave.
Colonial Theatre — 413-298-5576. 111 South Street.
Downtown Pittsfield Farmers’ Market. First Street.
First Friday Artswalk — Downtown.
Hancock Shaker Village – 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street.
Herman Melville’s Arrowhead. 413-442-1793. 780 Holmes Road.
Hilltop Orchard — Route 295.
Monday, March 2, 10am-3pm – PLANT STUDIES: The Berkshire Botanic Garden‘s second annual Bulb Show runs from March 2 through March 20. Visit the Fitzpatrick Greenhouse to escape the cold weather and see some lovely colorful flowers. 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road. Stockbridge, MA. (FREE/DONATIONS ACCEPTED)
Saturday, March 7, 1pm-4pm – HISTORY/ART: Families can learn about the Civil War at the Norman Rockwell Museum’s Family Day on March 7. See the work of Mort Künstler, hear Civil War-era music by Ampersand, do period art activities, see Civil War clothing and displays, go on family-friendly tours of the museum, and attend an art talk. Family Day is a great chance for all ages to learn about art and history and where they intersect. Free with museum admission. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. ($$)
Wednesday, March 11, 6:30pm – LOCAL HISTORY: The Stockbridge Library’s Museum and Archives is offering a local history program entitled, “Behind Closed Doors: At Home in Stockbridge.” The series focuses on the town’s historic homes, their history, and the people who lived in them. Current Stockbridge homeowners will present this information about their homes and the previous residents. This month’s program is entitled, “Main Street Doctors.” Those interested in local history will enjoy these programs. Takes place at First Congregational Church. 413-298-5501. 4 Main Street. Stockbridge, MA.
Friday, March 13, 2:30pm-3:30pm – ART: Learn the stories behind some of Norman Rockwell’s most famous paintings at the Norman Rockwell Museum with Curator of Education Tom Daly. Best for older students interested in art. Free with museum admission. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. ($$)
Saturday, March 21, 4pm – HISTORY/ART: The Norman Rockwell Museum presents the opening of their newest exhibition, J.C. Leyendecker and the Saturday Evening Post on March 21. The exhibit will display the work of J.C. Leyendecker, who is known for his Saturday Evening Post illustrations – all 322 of which will be on display at the museum. The opening takes place at 4pm on March 21 and features a talk by authors Judy and Laurence Cutler. The exhibit will be on display from March 21 through June 14. Free with museum admission. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183. Stockbridge, MA. ($$)
Berkshire Botanical Garden 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road.
Chesterwood — 413-298-3579. 4 Williamsville Road
Norman Rockwell Museum – 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183.
The Stockbridge Library, Museum, and Archives – 413-298-5501. 18 Main Street.
Thursday, March 5, 7:30pm-9pm – SNOWSHOEING: Explore Ashintully Gardens on snowshoe with The Trustees of Reservations. Walk the fields, carriage roads, gardens, and mansion ruins by moonlight on this fun hike. 413-243-3582. Sodem Road. Tyringham, MA. (>$)
Ashintully Gardens. 413-298-3239. Sodem Road.
West Stockbridge Public Library – 413-232-0300 x308. 21 State Line Road.
South Berkshire
Alford | Great Barrington | Housatonic | Monterey | New Marlborough | Sheffield
North Berkshire | Central Berkshire
Support Hilltown Families!
- Fridays, 12noon-1pm – CLOTH DIAPERS: Simple Diaper and Linen is offering a Cloth Diaper 101 workshop at Life Works Studio. Come learn the ins and outs of cloth diapering and get information on Simple Diaper and Linen’s new diaper service in Southern Berkshire County. 413-749-6232. 50 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- Tuesdays, 10:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: South Berkshire Kids is offering a Brain Builder Play and Learn Group at the Mason Library every Tuesday. Kids ages birth to age 5 can come read, sing, play, and talk, with a focus on STEM concepts and early literacy. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, March 5, 10am – CHILDREN’S PERFORMANCE: The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center presents a performance of Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse, by the Omaha Theater Company. Kids in grades K-3 will enjoy this performance, which is based on the children’s books by Kevin Henkes. Call for more information on this and other school-time field trip performances at Mahaiwe. 413-644-9040 x105. 14 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA. (>$)
Saturday, March 7, 10am-2pm – HEALTH/WELLNESS: Community members can join Berkshire South Regional Community Center for their Health and Wellness Day. There will be fitness and wellness demonstrations, kids’ activities, community collaboration info booths, raffles, prizes, and more. 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, March 8, 3pm-4:30pm – DANCE: Berkshire South Regional Community Center has a family square dance on March 8 with Cliff Brodeur. Ages 7 and up can come learn to square dance at this event. Call to sign up. 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. ($)
Thursday, March 12, 3:30pm-4:30pm – BOOK CLUB: The Mason Library will have a MCBA Book Club on March 12. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Friday, March 13, 6:15pm-8pm – ASTRONOMY: Join the Mason Library for their family astronomy night on March 13. Learn about the elements and how they relate to astronomy, and look at the night sky through an ultra-powerful telescope. This program is for ages 9 and up – younger kids can make an outer space craft with a parent/caregiver. Please register. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, March 14, 11am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Young kids and their dad can come to the Mason Library for a fun Dad & Me Playgroup! 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, March 15, 7pm – ACROBATICS PERFORMANCE: The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center presents “Cirque Ziva,” a performance by the Golden Dragon Acrobats. This fast-paced performance incorporates Chinese acrobatics, dance, costumes, ancient and contemporary music, and modern theatrical techniques to create one amazing show. 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA. ($$$)
Monday, March 16, 10am – ACROBATICS PERFORMANCE: The Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center presents “Cirque Ziva,” a performance by the Golden Dragon Acrobats. This fast-paced performance incorporates Chinese acrobatics, dance, costumes, ancient and contemporary music, and modern theatrical techniques to create one amazing show. Call for more information on this and other school-time field trip performances at Mahaiwe. 413-644-9040 x105. 14 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA. (>$)
Saturday, March 21, 10:30am & 11:30am – PUPPETRY: Community members are invited to a free puppet play, “The Straw Broom,” at Matrushka Toys and Gifts as part of the Rudolf Steiner School’s free puppet play series. 413-528-4015. 309 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, March 28, 10am-11:30am – EGG HUNT: Kids ages 6 and under can participate in an Egg Hunt at Berkshire South Regional Community Center. There will be three hunts for each different age group – age 2 and under (10am), ages 3 and 4 (10:30am), and ages 5 and 6 (11am). Arrive early to register or register in advance. 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. (>$)
Action Adventures Day Camp
Great Barrington, MA ♦ Join Action Adventures Day Camp this summer for a fun-filled recreational day camp with a different theme each week! For children entering 1st grade to age 12. Each week has its own unique theme that drives the week’s activities. A typical day includes crafts, projects, games, group activities, swimming, sports and outdoor experiences. The focus is on activities that foster critical thinking and development of self awareness, respect, tolerance, empathy, honesty and kindness. Financial assistance available. Camp runs all summer, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Price per week: $225 Members, $295 Guests. State Vouchers accepted.
Dates: Jun 29-Aug 21; Age/Grade Range: 1st grade-12yo
Contact: 413-528-2810 ♦ rbaxendale@berkshiresouth.org ♦ www.berkshiresouth.org
Berkshire South Regional Community Center — 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road.
Great Barrington Historical Society — South Main Street.
The Guthrie Center — 413-644-9288. 2 Van Deusenville Road.
Great Barrington Riverwalk — Church and River Streets.
Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center — 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street.
Mason Library — 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street.
South Berkshire Kids – 413-464-5095. 444 Old Stockbridge Road.
Project Native – 413-274-3433. 342 North Plain Road.
Ramsdell Library – 413-274-3738. 1087 Main Street.
Bidwell House Museum — 413-528-6888. 100 Art School Road.
Saturday, March 28, 11am – PUPPETRY: There will be a performance by Dr. Marmalade and Her Shadow Puppet Show at the New Marlborough Library on March 28. Kids can see the performance and make their own shadow puppets. 413-229-6668. 1 Mill River-Great Barrington Road. New Marlborough, MA. (FREE)
Cookson State Forest — Hotchkiss Road.
New Marlborough Library — 413-664-0104. 1 Mill River-Great Barrington Road.
Otis Library and Museum – 413-269-0109. 48 North Main Road.
Tuesday, March 17, 10am-12:30pm – HIKING: Join the Berkshire Natural Resources Council for a hike/snowshoe at Clam River Reserve. This 1.5-mile hike offers great views and a chance to explore this somewhat new property. 413-499-0596. 66 Sandisfield Road. Sandisfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, March 28, 4pm-6pm – LOCAL HISTORY: There will be a reception for the Sheffield Historical Society‘s exhibition, “Antique Bottles from Berkshire County,” at the Old Stone Store on March 28. Come see antique bottles from Berkshire County, which can help teach about local history and industries of the past. What are the names on the bottles? Based on the business names on the bottles, what were the most popular industries in Berkshire County? Older students interested in local history and industry will enjoy seeing these artifacts on display. The exhibit is also open weekends 10am-3pm through April 19. 413-229-2694. Main Street. Sheffield, MA. (FREE)
Bushnell-Sage Library – 413-229-7004. 48 Main Street.
Bartholomew’s Cobble – 413-229-8600. 105 Weatogue Road.
Sheffield Historical Society. 413-229-2694. 91 Main St.
