Hilltown Families 
Suggested Events for October 10th-16th, 2015
“We’re new to the Pioneer Valley and Hilltown Families has been connecting us to community events and people since we arrived. An invaluable source of local family-oriented events, we’re happy you’re here!” – Naomi Pusch (Easthampton, 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
Oct 10
Amherst Cinema’s Family Film series continues through October with a spooky collection of fun films for the whole family. This week’s feature Beetlejuice, Rated PG, on Saturday, October 10 at 10am, is a classic creepy comedy from the 80’s featuring Michael Keaton as a rowdy and rambunctious spirit. Audiences are encouraged to come in costume to receive a free child sized popcorn! Tickets are just $5 for everyone. For tickets and more information: www.amherstcinema.org. Additional family films this month: Coraline at 10am on Saturday, October 17; The Witches at 10am on Saturday, October 24; and Ghostbusters at 10am on Saturday, October 31.
Oct 10
Oak Meadow Open House is Saturday, October 10th from 11am-1pm, at 132 Main Street in Brattleboro, VT. Join Oak Meadow for this fun, annual event! Learn about their creative, experiential homeschooling curriculum for kindergarten to grade 12. Speak with teachers and college and educational counselors, browse curriculum materials, network with other homeschooling families. Enjoy crafts, music, and refreshments for all ages. FREE and open to anyone who’s interested in learning more about homeschooling. Help Oak Meadow celebrate their 40th anniversary! For more information visit www.oakmeadow.com.
Yoga for Kids w/ Autism & Special Needs! Family Yoga! Teen Yoga! At Eastworks in Easthampton, beginning October 18th! Help kids develop healthy habits that will last throughout the school year. Improve concentration, sense of calmness & sleep. Develop body awareness & improve self-esteem. Enhance posture, flexibility & coordination. Teen classes are a great way for homeschool and charter school students to meet their P.E. requirement in a fun, loving, and creative environment filled with opportunities for self-expression. The following classes are being offered for Fall Session 2: Family Yoga Sun 10-10:45; Teen Yoga Wed 3:30-4:20; Yoga for Kids w/Autism Wed 6-6:45 (pre-reg. required). Register online: KarenOrlandoYoga.com. Drop-ins welcome!
Oct 14
At River Valley Co-op on October 14, 6:30-8pm: The How-To’s of Cloth Diapering. Explore the basic how-to’s of cloth diapering through expert tips and demos. Learn about the cost benefits, environmental impacts, and all the myths and truths surrounding environmentally-friendly disposables, and leave with a handy resource guide. Simple Diaper & Linen is an eco-conscious diaper service based in Holyoke, and its founder Angie Gregory will share her knowledge & expertise about cloth diapering and fostering responsibility for the planet. All workshops are free & everyone is welcome. Pre-registration is required. Call 413-584-2665 to reserve a spot today. River Valley Co-op is located at 330 North King St., Northampton. www.rivervalleymarket.coop.
Open House: Oct 17
The Montessori School of Northampton’s annual Children’s Fall Fair and Open House will be held on Saturday, October 17, from 11am-3pm. This family-friendly event features games and activities, arts and crafts, delicious food and, premiering this year, the #WeNeedDiverseBooks book fair! Admission is free; there is a small fee for activities. During the fair, the school will be open for families to meet staff, visit classrooms and learn about the current programs from toddler through 6th grade as well as the new middle school opening in September 2016. The Montessori School of Northampton is located at 51 Bates Street in Northampton, MA. For more information, call 413-586-4538 or visit northamptonmontessori.org.
Open House: Oct 17
Please join The Hartsbrook School for their fall open house on Saturday, October 17th, 10am-12pm. Teachers and parents will show you the classrooms, present students’ work and answer your questions. The Hartsbrook curriculum works in harmony with the developmental stages of children, with attention to the intellectual, artistic and emotional needs of each student. Learning in this way is more joyful for students, and it produces children who are confident, creative and adaptable, all skills necessary for the modern world. High school, elementary and early childhood buildings will be open for you to explore. Sip some cider, make a craft and visit their farm animals while you are there! 193 Bay Road, Hadley, MA. 413-584-3198 www.hartsbrook.org
Oct 17
The OnTrend Fall Craft Fair will be held on Saturday, October 17 on the Hadley Town Commons on Route 9 in Hadley. The fair will showcase 60 of the region’s most talented indie crafters. Shoppers will find high-quality handmade jewelry, paper goods, body care products, home goods, ceramics, and much more. Come support our amazing local artisans – shop local, shop small! Rain or shine; free to attend. For more information, visit ontrendcrafts.com or email Jennifer at jennifer@ontrendcrafts.com.
Open House Oct 18
The Academy at Charlemont (1359 Route 2 in Charlemont, MA) will host an Open House for interested families on Sunday, October 18, with presentations beginning at 1pm. Meet students, teachers, and current parents and get a feel for their creative and rigorous academic program and warm community. The Academy offers vibrant arts, competitive athletics, and an emphasis on critical thinking and ethical leadership. Academy students love school. Shouldn’t everyone? Details at www.charlemont.org.
Oct 18
Run, Walk, or Shop to Save Local Farmland with Kestrel Land Trust! Don’t miss the 5K for Farmland & Farmers’ Market Festival on Sunday, October 18, at 11am on the West Street Common in Hadley. Family-friendly 5K race on a flat route through scenic farmland or a beautiful 2-mile riverside walk. Farmers’ Market Festival after the race with music by “The Rambling Kind,” local crafts and seasonal produce for sale, nature & animal exhibits, entertainment for kids, and FREE local beer by Valley Malt for registered participants age 21+. Register online and learn more by visiting www.kestreltrust.org. Receive a commemorative pint glass AND be entered into a raffle for great locally made prizes when you pre-register!
Oct 20
Hettie Belle Farm Local, organic and 100% grass-fed Meat and Poultry CSA! Meat & poultry grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers. 100% antibiotic and added hormone free. Hettie Belle Farm raises all of their own animals on their family farm. It really does matter! Shares include – 100% grass-fed beef & lamb, pastured pork, chicken, turkey, goose & ducks fed only certified organic grain. Monthly distribution in Greenfield, Florence, and on-farm in Warwick, MA (November-March). Details at www.hettiebellefarm.com. SNAP benefits accepted. Monthly payment plan options. Do consider becoming a member family!
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LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
October 10th-16th, 2015
Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets | Libraries| Berkshire Family Fun
Events Happening in the Hilltowns
Saturday, October 10th
9-10am – HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW: Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. This week, Hot Peas ‘n Butter front man and founder, Danny Lapidus tackles the difficult topic of “Bullying” through songs that promote friendship, peace, and Anti-Bullying messages. 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 over 8 years!
Saturday, October 10, 9am-12noon – SUSTAINABILITY/TAG SALE
The Northampton Community Tag Sale and Swap Meet is October 10th at Smith Vocational High School. If you’re looking to get rid of stuff, this is a great chance! Register by October 7th (>$) and you get an assigned parking spot where you can unload and set up your tag sale. The tag sale is a great opportunity to find quality used items at great prices while supporting your fellow community members and helping the environment by buying used instead of new. There will also be a costume swap – just in time for Halloween! Rain date 10/17. 413-587-4900. 80 Locust Street. Northampton, MA. (SALE)Saturday, October 10, 9am-2pm – LITERACY/BOOK SALE
The Emily Williston Memorial Library‘s Fall Book Sale takes place on October 10. Come find great books for the whole family! 413-527-1031. 9 Park Street. Easthampton, MA. (SALE)Saturday, October 10, 9:30am-4pm – FIBER ARTS
Saturday, October 10, 9:30am-5pm – NEW ENGLAND HISTORY
Celebrate fall this October at Old Sturbridge Village’s Apple Days! Come by for regular Village activities, plus orchard tours, apple picking, cider-making, and more. Learn about history and the many uses for apples in colonial times through these fun and educational activities. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. ($$)
Families can spend a Saturday morning at the movies at Amherst Cinema‘s screening of Beetlejuice. Kids and adults alike will love seeing this classic film on the big screen for Halloween! 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. (>$)Saturday, October 10. 10am — HISTORY WALK
Families can explore local connections to important moments in national history by participating in walking tours of Florence, offered by the Sojourner Truth Memorial Committee. Held monthly, tours weave stories together with exploration of local landmarks to make for a place-based exploration of history. The walks begin at the Sojourner Truth statue and will last about 1.5 hours. Park & Pine Streets, Florence, MA. (FREE)Saturday, October 10. 10:00am-1pm — BOTANY/HERBAL MEDICINE
Herbal medicine is the people’s medicine! This experiential, introductory workshop at The Haberdashery will teach you how to welcome common, locally prolific herbs into your life and stock up your medicine cabinet. Students will learn to confidently identify four different plants ready to harvest late fall. We will discuss several different medicine making techniques in class including tinctures, vinegars, syrups, fermentation, and decoctions. Bring 2 of your own 8oz. jars and a $10 materials fee if you would like to take home the medicines we make in class. The Haberdashery Homestead, 63 Bradford St., Northampton, MA.($$)Saturday, October 10, 10am-1pm – NATURE STUDIES/GUIDED HIKE
Saturday, October 10, 10am-3pm – PUMPKIN FESTIVAL
Look Park’s annual Pumpkin Festival is on October 10! Come enjoy carnival games, a bounce house, face painting, balloon animals, pumpkin painting, and more. A fun Halloween celebration for the whole family! 413-584-5457. 300 North Main Street. Florence, MA.Saturday, October 10, 10am-3pm – LOCAL HISTORY/CEMETERIES
The Sheffield Historical Society‘s exhibition, “Few and Evil Were Our Days: The Cemeteries of Sheffield,” is on display at the Old Stone Store every Saturday and Sunday through October 18. Learn about local residents of the past who are buried in Sheffield’s over 18 cemeteries, the carvings on the headstones, and the history of the cemeteries themselves. Learning about the town’s cemeteries is a fascinating way to experience local history and discover Sheffield’s past. 413-229-2694. 137 Main Street. Sheffield, MA. (FREE)Saturday, October 10, 10am-3pm – PAPERMAKING/LOCAL HISTORY
Families can head to the Berkshire Museum’s Spark!Lab on October 10th for “Pulp! A Day of Papermaking.” In addition to hands-on papermaking, museum visitors can learn about the history of paper in the Berkshires and hear stories of local people who were employed by the mills. This fun program blends science, crafts, and history to teach about papermaking and the importance of paper to the region. Free with museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. ($)Saturday, October 10, 10am-4pm – HISTORY/CULINARY ARTS
Experience life in an early New England kitchen at Historic Deerfield‘s Open Hearth Cooking demonstrations! Learn about traditional fall harvest foods like pumpkins, apples, and corn. These cooking demonstrations allow visitors of all ages to see what life was like in the past and the types of chores and activities they would do had they lived several hundred years ago! Free with admission. 413-774-5581. 84B Old Main Street. Deerfield, MA. ($)Saturday, October 10, 10am-5pm – FALL FESTIVAL
Saturday, October 10, 10am-5pm – FALL FESTIVAL
The 81st Annual Berkshire Botanical Garden Harvest Festival is on October 10th and 11th from 10am-5pm! Celebrate fall with a hay jump, pumpkin toss, cider pressing, local food, a craft sale featuring local artisans, live music, gardening and food-related workshops and demonstrations, a tag sale, and much more. This is a fun fall activity jam-packed with activities for families in a beautiful setting. 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road. Stockbridge, MA. (>$)10am-5pm – CULTURE STUDIES/INDIGENOUS ART
Cultural Survival Bazaar: A Festival of Native Arts and Culture. Since 1982, Cultural Survival’s Bazaars have provided a market for thousands of artisans and cooperatives spanning six continents and over sixty countries. Families can enjoy craft-making demonstrations, live music, and one-on-one conversations with representatives of different Indigenous cultures. Amherst Common. Boltwood Ave. Amherst, MA (FREE)Saturday, October 10, 10am-6pm – ARTS FESTIVAL
Northampton’s annual Paradise City Arts Festival is back this weekend, October 10-12! Head down to the Three County Fairgrounds and enjoy food, music, fun, and beautiful art. There will be exhibits, demonstrations, activities, and more at this fun festival. See work by local artists and artisans and connect with them, learn about their work, and get a head start on holiday shopping! 54 Old Ferry Road. Northampton, MA. ($)Saturday, October 10, 11am-1pm – HOMESCHOOL EDUCATION/OPEN HOUSE
Saturday, October 10, 11am-3pm – SURREALIST PERFORMANCE
Explore the gardens of Naumkeag in a whole new way this Halloween season. Meet wacky, magical characters as you tour the gardens with the Royal Frog Ballet at the Haunting Gardens of Naumkeag event. These family-friendly performers blend performance, visual art, music, and movement to create an exciting experience for all ages. 413-298-3239 x3016. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. ($)
Saturday, October 10, 12noon-6pm – MUSIC FESTIVAL
The 5th Annual Riverside Blues, Brews, and BBQs Festival is October 10 and 11 at Beacon Field in Greenfield. There will be live music, delicious food, vendors, competitions, demos, and more. A fun music-filled fall weekend! 413-772-1553. Greenfield, MA. (>$)Saturday, October 10, 1pm – CHILDREN’S LITERATURE
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is offering an exclusive preview of Mo Willems and Tony DiTerlizzi’s new chapter book, The Story of Diva and Flea, on October 10th. Mo and Tony will share their inspirations for the story and will do a book signing. Space is limited, so please call ahead for reservations. Sign up for book signing starting at 12noon on 10/10. Free with museum admission. 413-658-1126. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. ($)Saturday, October 10, 2pm – HISTORY/TOYS
Nan Wolverton, Director of the Center for Historic American Visual Culture, presents a talk entitled “Playing in the Past: Objects of Childhood in Early America” at Historic Northampton on October 10. Learn about the history of toys and entertainment for children and how these have changed over time in America, and how they impact the roles of children both in the past and today. Childhood artifacts from Historic Northampton and other New England collections will also be shown. 413-584-6011. 46 Bridge Street. Northampton, MA.Saturday, October 10, 2pm – FILM/ART STUDIES
MASS MoCA is screening Over Your Cities Grass Will Grow (2010), a documentary about German industrial artist Anselm Kiefer. Learn about his alchemical processes and tour the museum’s Kiefer gallery. Best for older students interested in contemporary art. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. ($)Saturday, October 10, 2pm-4pm – ICE HOCKEY/GIRLS
The Amherst Hockey Association is holding a Girls Try Hockey for Free Day at the UMass Mullins Center Community Rink on October 10th. Girls (ages 4 and up) who are interested in skating and hockey can attend this event and learn from players on the UMass women’s hockey team! No prior skating or hockey experience necessary. Skate rentals and helmets will be available, but please bring your own gloves. Register in advance. 413-256-3410. 200 Commonwealth Avenue. Amherst, MA. (FREE)Saturday, October 10, 2:30pm – FAMILY MOVIE
As part of their Bright Young Things film series, Images Cinema presents “Fantastic Journeys: Animated Shorts” on October 10 and 11. They will screen a variety of fun animated shorts with many different themes and from all over the world. Films are either in English or are nonverbal. The screening is a fun opportunity for families to enjoy animated shorts together and engage in discussion after the screening. 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street. Williamstown, MA. ($)Saturday, October 10, 4pm-5:30pm – LANDSCAPE DESIGN/HISTORY
Writer Jeanne Mackin will present a talk on landscape designer Beatrix Farrand at Eastover Estate and Retreat on October 10th. “Imagined Landscapes: Beatrix Farrand and A Lady of Good Family” focuses on Farrand and her work designing the gardens and grounds at Eastover as well as her work designing the grounds for her aunt Edith Wharton’s property, The Mount. Farrand is also known for being the first woman to become a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects. Call for reservations. 413-637-3206. 430 East Street. Lenox, MA. ($$)Saturday, October 10, 7pm – THEATER/MUSICAL FANTASY
Ja’Duke presents a production of Into the Woods this October at Frontier Regional High School. The play is a musical fantasy that is inspired by the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales and is just spooky enough to get you in the Halloween spirit! Tickets available in advance. 413-863-0001. 113 North Main Street. Deerfield, MA. ($$)Saturday, October 10, 7pm-9pm – HAUNTED CORN MAZE
Saturday, October 10, 7pm-11pm – HAUNTED CORN MAZE: Mike’s Maze has a ton of fun and spooky events lined up for Mike’s at Night this Halloween season. There’s a low-scare flashlight maze ($$), a scarier zombie paintball maze ($$$), and a very scary haunted maze ($$$). Experience the maze at night and have a blast getting lost amongst the corn and trying to find your way out. More info and age guidelines are available on the Mike’s Maze website. Mike’s at Night runs every Friday and Saturday night from September 25-October 31. 413-665-8331. 23 South Main Street. Sunderland, MA. ($$-$$$)
Saturday, October 10, 7:30pm – THEATER
The Theatre Guild of Hampden presents a production of Doubt, the Pulitzer Prize-winning play about a Bronx Catholic school in the 1960s. The play was also made into a an Academy Award-nominated film. Theater fans can see this intense drama performed at the Greenhouse Theater this October. Tickets available in advance. 2 Somers Road. Hampden, MA. ($$)Saturday, October 10, 7:30pm-9pm – GHOST TOUR/HISTORY
Learn some spooky local history on a Valley Ghost Tour, which run every Wednesday-Sunday night through November 1 at 7:30pm and start behind Thornes Marketplace in Northampton and in Sweetser Park in Amherst. Explore the town and learn fascinating ghost stories from the past. The tour is family friendly, but keep in mind the stories can be spooky! Dogs are welcome. Please book tickets in advance. Downtown. Amherst & Northampton, MA. ($$)Saturday, October 10, 8pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
Indie-rock group Dr. Dog is performing at MASS MoCA on October 10. The concert would be a fun date night activity for those who enjoy indie and psychedelic music. Tickets available in advance. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. ($$$)
Sunday, October 11th
Sunday, October 11, 9am-12noon – CANOEING/NATURE STUDIES
View the fall foliage of the Berkshires on a canoe trip with The Trustees of Reservations at Bartholomew’s Cobble. Paddle the Housatonic River and learn about its history, future, and conservation efforts on this guided canoe trip. Paddles, life preservers, and boats are provided. Ages 10 and up with an adult. Registration required. 413-229-8600. 105 Weatogue Road. Sheffield, MA. ($$)Sunday, October 11, 9:30am-5pm – COLONIAL HISTORY
Celebrate fall this October at Old Sturbridge Village’s Apple Days! Come by for regular Village activities, plus orchard tours, apple picking, cider-making, and more. Learn about history and the many uses for apples in colonial times through these fun and educational activities. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. ($$)Sunday, October 11. 10:00am – 12pm — GUIDED NATURE WALK
Boardwalks through nature are a way to explore without damaging the wildlife and also provide accessibility to those who may not be able to traverse a rockier path. The new accessible boardwalk nature trail at the Silvio O. Conte Wildlife Refuge in Hadley provides an easy walk with views of fields, forests, wetlands and the Fort River. This relaxed guided tour by a Hitchcock Center naturalist will provide an opportunity to catch a glimpse of autumn colors, migrating birds, micro-ecosystems and more. Feel free to bring binoculars and field guides. Registration required/limited space. 413-256-6006. 69 Moodybridge Road, Hadley, MA. (FREE)Sunday, October 11, 10am-3pm – LOCAL HISTORY/CEMETERIES
The Sheffield Historical Society‘s exhibition, “Few and Evil Were Our Days: The Cemeteries of Sheffield,” is on display at the Old Stone Store every Saturday and Sunday through October 18. Learn about local residents of the past who are buried in Sheffield’s over 18 cemeteries, the carvings on the headstones, and the history of the cemeteries themselves. Learning about the town’s cemeteries is a fascinating way to experience local history and discover Sheffield’s past. 413-229-2694. 137 Main Street. Sheffield, MA. (FREE)Sunday, October 11, 10am-4pm – COLONIAL HISTORY/CULINARY ARTS
Experience life in an early New England kitchen at Historic Deerfield‘s Open Hearth Cooking demonstrations! Learn about traditional fall harvest foods like pumpkins, apples, and corn. These cooking demonstrations allow visitors of all ages to see what life was like in the past and the types of chores and activities they would do had they lived several hundred years ago! Free with admission. 413-774-5581. 84B Old Main Street. Deerfield, MA. ($)Sunday, October 11, 10am-5pm – FALL FESTIVAL
Sunday, October 11, 10am-5pm – FALL FESTIVAL
The 81st Annual Berkshire Botanical Garden Harvest Festival is on October 10th and 11th from 10am-5pm! Celebrate fall with a hay jump, pumpkin toss, cider pressing, local food, a craft sale featuring local artisans, live music, gardening and food-related workshops and demonstrations, a tag sale, and much more. This is a fun fall activity jam-packed with activities for families in a beautiful setting. 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road. Stockbridge, MA. (>$)10am-5pm – CULTURE STUDIES/INDIGENOUS ART
Cultural Survival Bazaar: A Festival of Native Arts and Culture. Since 1982, Cultural Survival’s Bazaars have provided a market for thousands of artisans and cooperatives spanning six continents and over sixty countries. Families can enjoy craft-making demonstrations, live music, and one-on-one conversations with representatives of different Indigenous cultures. Amherst Common. Boltwood Ave. Amherst, MA (FREE)Sunday, October 11, 10am-6pm – ARTS FESTIVAL
Northampton’s annual Paradise City Arts Festival is back this weekend, October 10-12! Head down to the Three County Fairgrounds and enjoy food, music, fun, and beautiful art. There will be exhibits, demonstrations, activities, and more at this fun festival. See work by local artists and artisans and connect with them, learn about their work, and get a head start on holiday shopping! 54 Old Ferry Road. Northampton, MA. ($)
The 5th Annual Riverside Blues, Brews, and BBQs Festival is October 10 and 11 at Beacon Field in Greenfield. There will be live music, delicious food, vendors, competitions, demos, and more. A fun music-filled fall weekend! 413-772-1553. Greenfield, MA. (>$)Sunday, October 11. 12:55pm — DANCE STUDIES/BALLET
The Bolshoi Ballet HD presentations return to Amherst Cinema with Giselle. The Bolshoi is renowned for its intimate and emotionally intense interpretation of this beloved classic drama. This treasure of romantic ballet is one of the oldest and greatest in classical repertoire, touching upon the great romantic themes: a doomed love affair ending in tragedy, a dive into fantasy and ultimate redemption through the power of love. Music by Adolphe Adam and choreography by Yuri Grigorovich. Giselle screens in HD at Amherst Cinema. 413-253-2547. Amherst, MA ($$)Sunday, October 11, 1pm – FAMILY MOVIE
As part of their Bright Young Things film series, Images Cinema presents “Fantastic Journeys: Animated Shorts” on October 10 and 11. They will screen a variety of fun animated shorts with many different themes and from all over the world. Films are either in English or are nonverbal. The screening is a fun opportunity for families to enjoy animated shorts together and engage in discussion after the screening. 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street. Williamstown, MA. ($)Sunday, October 11, 2pm – THEATER
The Theatre Guild of Hampden presents a production of Doubt, the Pulitzer Prize-winning play about a Bronx Catholic school in the 1960s. The play was also made into a an Academy Award-nominated film. Theater fans can see this intense drama performed at the Greenhouse Theater this October. Tickets available in advance. 2 Somers Road. Hampden, MA. ($$)Sunday, October 11, 2pm – THEATER/MUSICAL FANTASY
Ja’Duke presents a production of Into the Woods this October at Frontier Regional High School. The play is a musical fantasy that is inspired by the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales and is just spooky enough to get you in the Halloween spirit! Tickets available in advance. 413-863-0001. 113 North Main Street. Deerfield, MA. ($$)Sunday, October 11. 2-5pm — LOCAL HISTORY
Sunday, October 11. 2-6pm. — FARM & COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Grassroots community agriculture increases community connection to food and the land on which it is grown. The goal of Just Roots is to increase knowledge about and demand for local food in Franklin County. Mark your calendars for the Just Roots annual Fall Farm Festival! Experience the magic of the fall with demonstrations, workshops, vendors, community potluck, and live music. 413-325-8969. Greenfield Community Farm, 34 Glenbrook Dr., Greenfield, MA. (FREE)Sunday, October 11. 10am-5pm – LOCAL CULTURE/CORN MAZE
Get lost in a corn maze, a classic New England tradition! There are a few in Western MA you can check out with your family, including Mike’s Maze at Warner Farm (23 South Main Street. Sunderland, MA), Hicks Family Farm Corn Maze ( 1299 Route 2. Charlemont, MA), Austin Brothers Valley Farm Corn Maze (270 West Street. Belchertown, MA), Meadow View Farm Corn Maze (120 College Highway. Southwick, MA), and Rolling Acres Farm Corn Maze (53 Pleasant Street. Southampton, MA ). Many of these mazes offer a fun and challenging outdoor adventure (of the best kind!) for families of all ages, along with other activities and farm fresh produce and perennials.Sunday. October 11. 10am-4pm – AVIATION
Fall Open Cockpit Day at the New England Air Museum! Visitors will be permitted to climb into the cockpits of up to twelve aircraft. These include the Vietnam era “Huey” helicopter; the North American F-100 Super Sabre jet fighter; the Coast Guard HH-52 rescue helicopter; Lockheed F-104C Starfighter and many more. All ages can come to NEAM for a super educational and fun-filled day! 860-623-3305. 36 Perimeter Road. Windsor Locks, CT. ($)Sunday, October 11, 12:55pm – DANCE STUDIES/BALLET
See the world-renowned Russian ballet company Bolshoi Ballet performGiselle on the big screen at Amherst Cinema. The performance was filmed live and will be screened at the Cinema for dance lovers to enjoy. Tickets available in advance. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. ($$)Sunday, October 11. 2pm — THEATRE
Tennessee Williams’ Pulitzer Prize-winning play, , examines gender, social class, and power in 1940’s New Orleans. The Majestic Theater begins its 19th season with this celebrated piece, which runs September 10-October 18. Due to mature themes, this play is appropriate for older teens and adults. 413-747-7797. 131 Elm Street, West Springfield, MA. ($$)Sunday, October 11. 2pm — LOCAL LANDSCAPES & HISTORY
The earth beneath your feet has countless stories to tell. The composition of the soil, minerals in the hillsides, and oxbowed rivers each can teach us about the land where we make our homes if we know how to interpret their tales. Local naturalist Laurie Sanders knows how to translate these stories, and she shares her expertise to help us better understand the ways in which the interactions between people and nature have shaped present-day Northampton in Rediscovering Northampton: Local History Viewed through an Ecological Lens. This six-part lecture series takes place for six Sundays (through November 22) through Historic Northampton and features a different topic each week. This title of this week’s talk is An Ever Present Danger: Fire and the Creation of Northampton’s Water Supplies. Registration required. 413-584-6011. Weinstein Auditorium, Wright Hall, Smith College, Northampton, MA. (< $ SUGGESTED DONATION)Sunday, October 11. 2pm-4pm — LOCAL HISTORY
The Charles Gillet Cigar Factory, built in 1892, is the last surviving building of its kind in the valley. It is one of two museums operated by the Southwick Historical Society, and provides visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about a manufacturing process that was important in our region in another era. The Southwick Historical Society also runs the Joseph Moore House, a structure that was built in 1751 by Joseph Moore, who lost his life in the Revolutionary War. Visit both of these museums at an open house this summer or fall, and savor the interesting artifacts and ephemera they hold while touring with a docent! Open house dates: 7/26, 8/9, 8/23, 9/13, 9/27, 10/11, and 10/25. 413-569-0275. 86 College Highway, Southwick, MA. (FREE)Sunday, October 11, 7:30pm-9pm – GHOST TOUR/LOCAL HISTORY
Learn some spooky local history on a Valley Ghost Tour, which run every Wednesday-Sunday night through November 1 at 7:30pm and start behind Thornes Marketplace in Northampton and in Sweetser Park in Amherst. Explore the town and learn fascinating ghost stories from the past. The tour is family friendly, but keep in mind the stories can be spooky! Dogs are welcome. Please book tickets in advance. Downtown. Amherst & Northampton, MA. ($$)
Monday, October 12th
Monday, October 12, 9:30am-5pm – COLONIAL HISTORY
Celebrate fall this October at Old Sturbridge Village’s Apple Days! Come by for regular Village activities, plus orchard tours, apple picking, cider-making, and more. Learn about history and the many uses for apples in colonial times through these fun and educational activities. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. ($$)Monday, October 12, 10am-4pm – ARTS FESTIVAL
Northampton’s annual Paradise City Arts Festival is back this weekend, October 10-12! Head down to the Three County Fairgrounds and enjoy food, music, fun, and beautiful art. There will be exhibits, demonstrations, activities, and more at this fun festival. See work by local artists and artisans and connect with them, learn about their work, and get a head start on holiday shopping! 54 Old Ferry Road. Northampton, MA. ($)Monday, October 12, 10am-4pm – COLONIAL HISTORY/CULINARY ARTS
Experience life in an early New England kitchen at Historic Deerfield‘s Open Hearth Cooking demonstrations! Learn about traditional fall harvest foods like pumpkins, apples, and corn. These cooking demonstrations allow visitors of all ages to see what life was like in the past and the types of chores and activities they would do had they lived several hundred years ago! Free with admission. 413-774-5581. 84B Old Main Street. Deerfield, MA. ($)10am-5pm – CULTURE STUDIES/INDIGENOUS ART
Cultural Survival Bazaar: A Festival of Native Arts and Culture. Since 1982, Cultural Survival’s Bazaars have provided a market for thousands of artisans and cooperatives spanning six continents and over sixty countries. Families can enjoy craft-making demonstrations, live music, and one-on-one conversations with representatives of different Indigenous cultures. Amherst Common. Boltwood Ave. Amherst, MA (FREE)Monday, October 12, 2pm-4pm – HALLOWEEN/PUMPKIN CARVING
Get in the Halloween spirit at a special pumpkin carving event at Chesterwood, free with one adult admission! 413-298-3579. 4 Williamsville Road. Stockbridge, MA. ($)Monday, October 12, 7pm — PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT/SCIENCE/SOCIOLOGY
Studies of animals have had a profound influence on our understanding of human behavior, health, and more. Can we flip this around and apply some of what we know about humans to better understand animals? This will be the first question explored at Nerd Nite‘s first event of the season. The second set of questions addressed at the event will be: What are the developmental origins of human prejudice? Do we begin life immune to stereotypes and biases? UMASS professors Luke Remage-Healey and Erik Cheries will lead the event and share what they have learned about these issues through their research endeavors. This event is for people age 21 and up. Eastworks, 116 Pleasant Street, Suite 160, Easthampton, MA. (< $)
Tuesday, October 13th
Tuesday October 13. 2:30pm-5:30pm —NATURE STUDIES/ENTOMOLOGY
What kinds of camouflage to caterpillars have? Imagine being able to observe a variety of caterpillars up close and see warning coloration, spiky spines, horns and false eyes! The Hitchcock Center will host the Caterpillar Lab and their collection of butterfly and moth caterpillars, along with each larva’s specific host food plant and photos of the butterflies and moths that they will turn into. 413-256-6006. 525 South Pleasant St., Amherst, MA. (<$)Tuesday, October 13, 3:30pm & 5pm – MOVIE SCREENING
The S. White Dickinson Memorial Library is screening Far from the Madding Crowd (2015; rated PG-13) on October 13th. The film is based on Thomas Hardy’s novel and is set in Victorian England. 413-665-2170. 202 Chestnut Plain Road. Whately, MA. (FREE)
ONGOING FOR TUESDAY
(To add your free ongoing event/activity here, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org)
- 8:45am-10:15am – PLAYGROUP: The Community Network for Children hosts a playgroup for newborns through preschool-aged children with their caregivers at the Swift River School every Tuesday through June 30, 2016. It may not run on school holidays and in inclement weather; please call ahead to check. 978-544-5157. 201 Wendell Road, New Salem, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: Every Tuesday, Community Health Programs of Berkshire County hosts Toddler Steps, a playgroup for children ages 18 months- 3 years with their caregivers. 413-644-0104. 442 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am-11am – PLAYGROUP: Playgroup for young kids ages birth-preK at the Dickinson Memorial Library with Deb Wood features fun toys and more! Every Tuesday. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Easthampton Family Center is open every Monday, Tuesday, and Friday for drop-in playgroup and activities for kids ages 5 and under. The Family Center follows the Easthampton Public Schools schedule. 413-527-5496. 43 Main Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Frontier Regional CFCE is offering a playgroup for kids ages 5 and under every Tuesday and Friday at Sunderland Elementary School through June 10, 2016. Follows Sunderland school schedule. 413-665-8928. 1 Swampfield Drive. Sunderland, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Young children and their caregivers are invited to participate in the Explore & Play playgroup, sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County, which meets Tuesday mornings. 413-644-0104. 1 North Main Road, Otis, MA. (FREE)
- 10am – PARENT GROUP: Nursing Families group every Tuesday at the Haskins Center. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-11am – STEAM: Preschool-age children can learn about science, technology, engineering, art, and math at the Dalton Free Public Library every Tuesday! There will be a story, a lesson, and a STEAM project. 413-684-6112. 462 Main Street. Dalton, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-11am – STORYTIME: Join the Greenfield Public Library for a weekly storytime year-round! This event includes stories, songs, fingerplays, and crafts for kids age five and under. 413-772-1544 x5. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-11:30am – LITERACY: Kids ages 2-5 can attend a literacy group at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield. Come with a parent or caregiver and practice reading skills! Runs every Tuesday. 413-568-5242. 28 West Silver Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-5pm – WOODWORKING:The Shakers are known for their beautiful and simple handcrafted utilitarian objects. Visit the Hancock Shaker Village any Tuesday to watch master woodworkers create oval boxes using traditional tools and techniques. Borrow a free museum pass from the library. 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street, Pittsfield, MA. (FREE for members and children 12 and under; $)
- 10:15am-11:45am – CRAFTING: What better way to prepare for a cozy New England winter than to complete those knitting projects? Knitting alongside others also builds community and increases skills. The Storrs Library in Longmeadow offers a Novel Knitters drop-in program for adults where you can bring your own projects and supplies or participate in ongoing community projects. All levels of expertise are welcome. 413- 565-4182. Storrs Library, 693 Longmeadow St., Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am – STORYTIME: Preschoolers can attend a fun storytime at the Chicopee Public Library the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. Come for songs, finger plays, movement, stories, activities, and crafts. 413-594-1800 x107. 449 Front Street. Chicopee, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am – STORYTIME: Storytime and music for ages 1-3 every Tuesday at the North Adams Public Library. 413-662-3133. 74 Church Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am-11am – MUSIC: The Hubbard Library is offering a music program for preschoolers every Tuesday. Come for singing, clapping, and dancing. 413-583-5646. 24 Center Street. Ludlow, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am-11:30am – STEM & LITERACY PLAYGROUP: The Mason Library invites children ages 0-5 with their caregivers to its Brain Builders Play & Learn Playgroup every Tuesday. Activities will include reading, singing, playing, circle time, and engaging table-time activities that focus on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) themes! 413-528-1720. 231 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Toddlers aged 12-36 months and their caregivers are welcome at the bilingual toddler storytime at the Forest Park Library. stories, songs, fingerplays, and playtime. Registration required if you bring more than three children. Runs through December 8. Registration required/limited space. Adult must be present. 413-263-6843. 380 Belmont Ave., Springfield, MA. (FREE)
- 11am – PLAYGROUP: Childcare of the Berkshires, Inc. holds a playgroup every Tuesday at the Adams Youth Center. 413-664-4821. 20 East Street Adams, MA. (FREE)
- 11:00am – 12:00pm – PLAYGROUP: Child Care of the Berkshires, Inc. is offering a playgroup at Adams Youth Center for infants to 5 year olds. 413-664-4821. 20 East St., Adams, MA. (FREE)
- 11am-12pm – PLAYGROUP: Facilitator MaryBeth leads Baby Steps, a playgroup that meets Tuesdays. This playgroup is sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. 413-644-0104. 442 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 11:30am-1pm – SUPPORT GROUP: Grandparents and great-grandparents who are raising their grandchildren – “grandfamilies” – can attend a support group every second and fourth Tuesday in Turners Falls. Come to the group to learn about resources, meet other grandfamilies, share experiences, and seek support. Run by United Arc. 413-563-1981. 294 Avenue A. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)
- 12:30pm-2pm – TECHOLOGY SUPPORT: The Storrs Library’s Tech Tuesday ongoing, drop-in sessions allow folks to receive coaching in various skills with which they’ve been needing support. Learn how to use your new computer, send email, operate an e-reader, and more. Bring your phone, e-reader, or other relevant device. 413-565-4181. 693 Longmeadow Street, Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)
- 1pm-2pm – BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT: Are you or your partner facing breastfeeding challenges? Is nursing not what you thought it would be? Stop in to MaryBeth’s breastfeeding support group, which meets Tuesday afternoons, for advice, techniques, and emotional support. Babies and children welcome, of course! This group is sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. 413-644-0104. 442 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 1:30pm-6:30pm – FARMERS’ MARKET: Northampton’s Tuesday Market runs through the fall. Tuesday Market features delicious local fruits, vegetables, bread, syrup, fish, honey, and much more! Come each Tuesday for food, community, and entertainment. Takes place between Thornes Market and the parking garage. Downtown. Northampton, MA.
- 2pm – FILM: Amherst Cinema offers weekly matinees every Tuesday, 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. >$
- 3pm-5pm – GAMES: Kids can play Magic the Gathering every Tuesday at Comics N’ More. A great chance for kids to make new friends with similar interests and learn how to play this fun card game! 413-529-0800. 31 Union Street. Easthampton, MA.
- 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)
- 4:30pm – AFTERSCHOOL & YO-YO: Not many toys can boast over 2,500 years of use worldwide, but the yo-yo has enjoyed consistent use in hundreds of cultures for nearly three millenia. The popular Northampton education-based store A to Z hosts Yo-Yo School three times a week inside their store, and their teachers are true masters. Open to all ages, although older elementary children often have the motor skills and coordination needed for it to be a bit easier to learn. Read more about Yo-Yo school on Hilltown Families. Call 413-586-1611. 57 King St., Northampton, MA. (FREE)
- 5:15pm-6:45pm – SUPPORT GROUP: Grandparents and great-grandparents who are raising their grandchildren – “grandfamilies” – can attend a support group every first Tuesday (5:15pm-6:45pm) and third Wednesday (12:30pm-2pm) in Greenfield. Come to the group to learn about resources, meet other grandfamilies, share experiences, and seek support. Run by United Arc. 413-563-1981. 90 Federal Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)
- 6pm – LITERACY/GAMES: Meet up with other community members at the Monson Library each Tuesday for a game of Scrabble! 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE)
- 6pm – PARENTING & CLIMATE CHANGE: Mothers Out Front is a group of “mothers and others” who are concerned about climate change and passionate about creating a cleaner energy future for future generations. Learn more about the group’s work and meet other parents with whom to share your stories, hopes, and fears at their monthly climate support gatherings, held every 2nd Tuesday and 4th Thursday of the month. RSVP via the MOF site. Sunderland, MA (Tuesdays) and Florence, MA (Thursdays). (FREE)
- 6:30pm – ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE: Is the health of our Earth on your mind? Gather with others who are contemplating the same topic at the Environmental Awareness Discussion Group, which meets on the last Tuesday of the month at the Dickinson Memorial Library. Members of the group use both non-fiction and fiction books and films as launching off points for meaningful conversations about the environment. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street, Northfield, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, October 14th
Seniors can join naturalist John Green and the Hitchcock Center for the Environment for a Morning Nature Walk for Seniors. This is a great chance for grandparents to get outdoors and learn about nature! Registration is required; location given upon registration. 413-256-6006. Amherst, MA. (FREE)Wednesday, October 14, 12:30pm-1pm – MUSIC STUDIES/CLASSICAL MUSIC
Take the opportunity to relax and enjoy live music at Smith College’s Music in the Noon Hour event. Smith faculty artists and friends will perform half-hour recitals of classical music. Takes place at Sweeney Concert Hall. 413-585-3222. 122 Green Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)Wednesday, October 14, 5pm-7pm – CONCERT/CHAMBER MUSIC
The Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce presents Chamber After 5 Jazz Fest in the Hampshire Mall’s Center Court. Enjoy this fun jazz concert as a mid-week treat or as an introduction to the genre. 413-253-0700. 367 Russell Street. Hadley, MA. ($)Wednesday, October 14, 5:30pm-7pm – PARENT WORKSHOP
Parents of children ages 3-5 can attend a “Parenting Preschoolers” workshop at Atkinson Family Practice beginning on October 14th and running for eight weeks. Evan Shopper, LICSW, will lead this workshop series, which focuses on the complexities of parenting preschoolers, including discipline, developmental stages, attachment, toileting, and much more. This is a great chance for parents to come together to explore, share, and learn about parenting preschoolers in a supportive environment. Childcare is provided. Register ASAP. 413-835-1593. 17 Research Drive. Amherst, MA.
Learn the basics of cloth diapering at a workshop at River Valley Co-Op on October 14th. Angie Gregory of Simple Diaper and Linen will give demos and discuss the environmental and financial benefits of cloth diapers, and how they compare to disposable diapers. Pre-registration is required. 413-584-2665. 330 North King Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)Wednesday, October 14, 7pm – MUSIC STUDIES/GUITAR
Guitarist Peter Biedermann will perform original jazz and improvisation on 6- and 12-string guitars at the Forbes Library on October 14th. Students with audience skills who are interested in music, especially guitar, will enjoy this performance that showcases Biedermann’s skill and unique style. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)Wednesday, October 14, 7:30pm-9pm – GHOST TOUR/LOCAL HISTORY
Learn some spooky local history on a Valley Ghost Tour, which run every Wednesday-Sunday night through November 1 at 7:30pm and start behind Thornes Marketplace in Northampton and in Sweetser Park in Amherst. Explore the town and learn fascinating ghost stories from the past. The tour is family friendly, but keep in mind the stories can be spooky! Dogs are welcome. Please book tickets in advance. Downtown. Amherst & Northampton, MA. ($$)
ONGOING FOR WEDNESDAY
(To add your free ongoing event/activity here, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org)
- 9:30am-11am – PLAYGROUP: Young kids can play, learn, and discover at a weekly program every Wednesday at Kittredge Elementary School. 413-655-0146. Maple Street. Hinsdale, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: You and your young children are welcome to join other kids and caregivers each Wednesday at the Lenox Community Center’s weekly playgroup, sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. 413-644-0104. 65 Walker Street, Lenox, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Children ages 3-5 years old and their caregivers can join Kim each Wednesday for Play N Learn, a playgroup sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. Advance registration required. 413-644-0104. 442 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-10:45am – STORYTIME: Kids can come to the Holyoke Public Library every Monday and Wednesday at 10am for stories with Nathan! 413-420-8105. 250 Chestnut Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-11am – PLAYGROUP: Playgroup every Wednesday at the Lanesborough Town Hall’s Community Room. For ages walking to 5 years. Run by The Family Center. 413-664-4821. 83 North Main Street. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE)
- 10am – 11:30am – MUSIC AND LITERACY: Young children and their caregivers can visit the Wendell Free Library on Wednesdays through June 30, 2016 for Tunes and Tales with Sylvia Wetherby, organized by the Community Network for Children. This group may not run on school holidays and in inclement weather; please call ahead to check. 978-544-3559. 7 Wendell Depot Road, Wendell, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Community Network for Children hosts a playgroup for newborns through preschool-aged children with their caregivers at the Erving Elementary school every Wednesday through June 30, 2016. It may not run on school holidays and in inclement weather; please call ahead to check. 413-423-3326. 28 Northfield Road, Erving, MA. (FREE)
- 10:00am-11:00am – PLAYGROUP: Child Care of the Berkshires, Inc.is offering a toddler playgroup at Haskins Center for ages 1 to 2.5 years. 413-664-4821. 210 State St., North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-12pm – STORYTIME: Enjoy a morning of stories at the New Marlborough Library’s weekly storytime, held each Wednesday. This storytime series is sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. 413-644-0104. 1 Mill River-Great Barrington Road, New Marlborough, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am – STORYTIME: There is a storytime for preschool-age kids every Wednesday at the Monson Free Library! Come for stories and fun. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am – STORYTIME: Storytime and crafts for ages 3-6 every Wednesday at the North Adams Public Library. 413-662-3133. 74 Church Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Stop by the Edwards Library on the first and third Wednesday of each month for playgroup. Storytime, games, and arts and crafts are featured. For kids 8 and under. 30 East Street. Southampton, MA.
- 10:30am – STORYTIME: Storytime for ages 3-8 at the Mason Square Branch Library. Come every Wednesday for stories, songs, and crafts. 413-263-6853. 765 State Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)
- 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. Borrow a free museum pass from the library. 413-443-7171 x21. 39 South Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am-12pm – STORYTIME: The Community Network for Children offers a story hour every Wednesday at the Leverett Library. Children ages 5 and under can come for music, movement, books, and hands-on activities. Runs through June 30, 2016. May not run on holidays or in inclement weather; please call ahead to check. 978-544-5157. 75 Montague Road. Leverett, MA. (FREE)
- 11am & 2pm – FIBER ARTS:The Shakers are known for their beautiful and simple fiber crafts. Visit the Hancock Shaker Village any Wednesday to watch flax-processing and felted bead-making demonstrations by talented artisans who use traditional tools and techniques. Borrow a free museum pass from the library. 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street, Pittsfield, MA. (FREE for members and children 12 and under; $)
- 11:00am-11:30am – STORYTIME Toddlers and their caregivers can come to the Forbes Library for Toddler Time, which includes stories, bubbles and songs with friends every Wednesday. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)
- 11am-12pm – STORYTIME: Preschool storyhour every Wednesday at the Dickinson Memorial Library with Ruthanne Paulson includes stories, music, movement, crafts, and a snack. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA. (FREE)
- 11:30am-12:30pm – GYM GROUP: Child Care of the Berkshires, Inc. is offering a Gym Group at Haskins Center for ages walking to 5 years old. 413-664-4821. 210 State St., North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- 12pm-1:30pm – PARENT SUPPORT GROUP: Every Wednesday there will be a support group for pregnant and postpartum mothers of children ages 0-5 at Square One’s Family Square, facilitated by MotherWoman. This group is a great place to talk about motherhood in a safe and confidential space. Childcare provided. 413-858-3122. 1095 Main Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)
- 12:30pm-2pm – SUPPORT GROUP: Grandparents and great-grandparents who are raising their grandchildren – “grandfamilies” – can attend a support group every first Tuesday (5:15pm-6:45pm) and third Wednesday (12:30pm-2pm) in Greenfield. Come to the group to learn about resources, meet other grandfamilies, share experiences, and seek support. Run by United Arc. 413-563-1981. 90 Federal Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)
- 1pm-2:30pm – MOTHER SUPPORT GROUP: There will be a MotherWoman support group every Wednesday at Midwifery Care of Holyoke. Expectant mothers and moms of babies under age 1 can come discuss all aspects of motherhood. 413-534-2700. 230 Maple Street. Holyoke, MA. (FREE)
- 1pm-2:30pm – PARENT SUPPORT GROUP: Parents, caregivers, and grandparents are invited to attend a Parents Supporting Parents Support Group every Wednesday at the Salasin Center. 413-775-0010. 474 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)
- 1:30pm – NATURE STUDIES: Preschool-aged kids can attend Kidleidoscope every Wednesday at Natural Bridge State Park. This weekly program features forest-themed educational activities. 413-663-6392. McCauley Road. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- 3pm-5:30pm – MAKER SPACE: Every Wednesday, Amherst Media hosts a drop-in group for makers of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re working on computer programming, tech projects, knitting, other projects, or are just curious, stop by and check it out! 413-259-3300. 246 College Street. Amherst, MA.
- 3:15pm – 4:15pm – AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
When you see a piece of art, how deeply do you explore the artist behind the work, and the context in which is was created? Young people can practice asking these questions when they explore pieces of art & the artist that made it during a four-week “After School Art” program at the Bushnell Sage Library. Four sessions on Wednesdays: October 7, October 21, November 4, November 18. Artists explored will be Edward Hopper, Picasso and others. All participants are encouraged to sign up for all four classes. 413-229-7004. Bushnell-Sage Library, 48 Main St., Sheffield, MA. (FREE)- 4pm-5pm – Story/Craft Hour: Join the Cushman Library during the school year for thematic picture book/craft activities, snacks and opportunity to meet other parents while the kids get crafty together. 413-648-5402. 28 Church Street. Bernardston, MA. (FREE)
- 5:30pm-7:30pm – KNITTING: Knitting provides an excellent base for intergenerational skill sharing every Wednesday through Dec 23 at the Cushman LIbrary. Bring your current project or one you’ve been meaning to start! All levels of knitters are welcome at this Wednesday knitting circle. 413-648-5402. 28 Church Street. Bernardston, MA. (FREE)
- 5:30pm-6:30 pm – LITERACY: How might books be like video games? Head to Sprinfield’s Central Library for Book and Build. Hear a book (or a chapter) then work together to three-dimensionally recreate the scene. Ages 8-12. Runs through November 18. Children’s Program Room. 413-263-6828 x201. Children’s Room, Central Library, 220 State Street Springfield, MA. (FREE)
- 6pm-6:30pm – STORYTIME: Stories, songs, and movement for children ages 3 to 10 at the East Springfield Library. Runs through November 18. No registration required. Adult must accompany children, siblings welcome. 413-263-6840. 21 Osborne Terrace Springfield, MA. (FREE)
- 6:30pm – STORYTIME: Pajama storytime for kids ages 3-6 at the East Longmeadow Library. Runs every Wednesday evening. 413-525-5400 x1506. 60 Center Square. East Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)
- 6pm-8pm — CRAFTING: Sheep & Shawl yarn and fiber arts shop in South Deerfield offers Knit/Crochet/Spin Circles every Wednesday night. 413-397-3680. 265 Greenfield Rd., South Deerfield, MA. (FREE)
- 7pm – FILM STUDIES: New Asia Cinema and Arab Cinema Panorama screen a film as part of their “Fantastic Animals” series every Wednesday at the Flavin Theater School of Management at UMass. Each film deals with the connections between humans and animals around the world. See the Fine Arts Center website for a full schedule and list of films. Runs through December 9, 2015. 413-577-2486. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
- 7pm-9pm – PARENT SUPPORT GROUP: There will be a MotherWoman support group the fourth Wednesday of each month in Conference Room D at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. This is a bereavement group for infant and pregnancy loss. Please contact emptyarmsbereavement@gmail.com for more information. 413-387-0703. 30 Locust Street. Northampton, MA.
- 7pm-9pm – PARENT SUPPORT GROUP: There will be a MotherWoman support group the second Wednesday of each month in the Owl and Raven Community Space. The group is for mothers and partners who have experienced the loss of a baby through miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. Please email lexi.walters@gmail.com for more information. 413-387-0703. 2 Conz Street, Unit 42. Northampton, MA.
- 7pm-9pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: The Creacion Latin Big Band has open practice sessions every first and third Wednesdays. Enjoy salsa, cha cha, mambo, and more, and enjoy food and drink from the beer garden, too. Audience members are invited to dance to their hearts’ content! 413-650-2670. Gateway City Arts, 92-114 Race Street, Holyoke, MA. (FREE)
- 7:30pm-10:30pm – DANCE: Beginners and people of all skill levels can come dance the night away at Downtown Amherst Contra! This is a great way to have fun and meet new people in a low-pressure environment. Beginners can show up at 7 for a learning session. Best for teens and adults. Every Wednesday except the second Wednesday of each month. 99 Main Street. Amherst, MA. $
Thursday, October 15th
Looking for service-based learning? RSVP of Hampshire & Franklin Counties is sponsoring a community volunteer fair ideal for older youth and adults looking for opportunities to serve in Hampshire and Franklin counties. The local organizations exhibiting at the fair have volunteer opportunities in education, nutrition, fundraising, non-profit consulting, exercise & activity programs, senior services, and more. Come find the perfect way for you and your family to give back to your community! 67 Conz Street. Northampton, MA (FREE)Thursday, October 15, 3:30pm-5pm – EDUCATOR EVENT
The Springfield Museums are holding an Educator Open House on October 15. Learn about field trips and Museums on the Go! outreach programs, upcoming events, and more. Educators, PTO/PTA members, and administrators are invited to attend to learn about the Museums’ programs and how students can benefit. Register in advance. 800-625-7738. 21 Edwards Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)Thursday, October 15, 4:30pm-6pm – PHOTOGRAPHY/FILM/ART STUDIES
The UMass Amherst Fine Arts Center presents a screening of Chuck Close (2007), a documentary directed by Marion Cajori, in Herter Hall Room 227. The last film made by Cajori, the documentary focuses on artist Chuck Close’s singular use of portraiture. The screening is held in conjunction with the University Museum of Contemporary Art’s exhibition, Chuck Close Photographs, on view through December 6, 2015. The screening would appeal to older students interested in contemporary art, art history, film studies, and photography. 413-545-3670. 161 Presidents Drive. Amherst, MA. (FREE)Thursday, October 15. 5:00pm-6:30pm — SURREALIST PERFORMANCE
Experience landscape-based art and performance with both humor and drama while you traipse around fields and farmland when The Royal Frog Ballet presents the 8th Annual Surrealist Cabaret and Pumpkin Walk. The performance takes audience members traveling through a gorgeous farm landscape at autumnal sunset. Along the way they encounter a surreal collection of short performances, installation pieces, and roving characters created by artists working collaboratively in various media, exploring and celebrating themes of season and place. Please bring a flashlight and wear hiking appropriate footwear and layers for a chilly fall evening in farm country. May be a bit spooky for the youngest in the crowd. Reservations required. Directions sent after reserving tickets. Amherst, MA.($$)Thursday, October 15, 5pm-7pm – ART/WRITING
Join the UMass Fine Arts Center for the opening reception of their new exhibition, “A Change Is Gonna Come,” on October 15th in the Augusta Savage Gallery. The exhibit consists of handwritten writings (letters, poems, stories, essays, diary entries, etc.) submitted by the general public that celebrate change and the beauty of handwriting. The exhibit will be on view through October 30. 413-545-5177. 180 Infirmary Way. Amherst, MA. (FREE)Thursday, October 15, 7:30pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
As part of their Thursday Night Jazz Series, CityStage presents a performance by Nicole Zuraitis Group. Hear the Group’s unique genre-bending sound at this fun concert. Tickets available in advance. 413-788-7033. 150 Bridge Street. Springfield, MA. ($$$)Thursday, October 15, 7:30pm – THEATER
The Smith College Department of Theatre presents the New Play Readings series this fall, which brings audiences new and developing scripts that have been honored by the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize, as well as others, and those written by Smith MFA graduate playwrights. On October 15, hear a reading of Always Plenty of Light at the Starlight All-Night Diner, by Darcy Parker Bruce MFA ’16. Older students interested in theater will enjoy these readings, which are a unique way to experience theater. Takes place in Hallie Flanagan Studio Theatre. 413-585-3222. 122 Green Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)Thursday, October 15, 7:30pm-9pm – GHOST TOUR/LOCAL HISTORY
Learn some spooky local history on a Valley Ghost Tour, which run every Wednesday-Sunday night through November 1 at 7:30pm and start behind Thornes Marketplace in Northampton and in Sweetser Park in Amherst. Explore the town and learn fascinating ghost stories from the past. The tour is family friendly, but keep in mind the stories can be spooky! Dogs are welcome. Please book tickets in advance. Downtown. Amherst & Northampton, MA. ($$)
ONGOING FOR THURSDAY
(To add your free ongoing event/activity here, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org)
- 9am-12pm – VOLUNTEERING: Help monitor and care for the trails at Bartholomew’s Cobble, a Trustees of Reservations property. Runs Thursdays through November 26, 2015. Contact conservation ranger Rene Wendell for more details. 413-229-8600. 105 Weatogue Road, Sheffield, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: Children ages 18 months through 3 years and their caregivers may participate in the Toddler Steps playgroup which meets on Thursdays, sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. 413-644-0104. 442 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am-10:30am – STORYTIME: On Thursdays, young children and their caregivers can enjoy building early literacy skills at Richmond Reads, a weekly group sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. 413-644-0104. Richmond Library, 1831 State Road, Richmond, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-11am – STORYTIME: Storytime every Thursday at the Dalton Free Public Library. There will be stories, snacks, and a craft. 413-684-6112. 462 Main Street. Dalton, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP Add some playtime, socializing, and song to your morning at Sing N Play each Thursday. Open to young children and their caregivers, and sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. 413-644-0104. Bushnell-Sage Library, 48 Main Street, Sheffield, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am-11:15am – STORYTIME: Storytime for toddlers (ages 2-5) every Thursday at the Ramsdell Library. 413-274-3738. 1087 Main Street. Housatonic, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am-11:30am – STORYTIME: Join the Emily Williston Memorial Library for storytime every Thursday! There will be snacks, stories, and crafts. 413-529-1605. 9 Park Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am – MUSIC: The Jones Library will offer a preschool storytime every Thursday. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am-12:30pm – PLAY GROUP: Children birth – 5 years old are welcome to attend a neighborhood playgroup at Sixteen Acres Library. Enjoy stories, fingerplays, a craft and playtime. Adult must accompany and consistently supervise children, siblings welcome. 413-263-6858. 1187 Parker Street, Springfield MA. (FREE)
- 10:45am-11:45am – PARENTING SKILLS/SUPPORT: Would you like to meet other parents in the area and share your parenting triumphs and challenges? Would you enjoy learning sound parenting advice from a trusted source? Check out Sips & Tips, a parenting group that meets on Thursdays, sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. Childcare is provided. 413-644-0104. 442 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 10:45am-12pm – NUTRITION & CULINARY ARTS: Children ages 2.5-5 years and their caregivers are invited to Kids’ Kitchen, a fun cooking group that meets on Thursdays. Children who participate in meal preparation often show greater tolerance for a variety of foods and healthier eating habits than children who do not. The focus will be on learning basic food prep techniques and making healthy choices for everyday meals. Sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. 413-644-0104 x 1159. 442 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 11am-12pm – PARENTING SUPPORT: Mothers, fathers, grandparents, and all others providing care for a child age 0-9 months are invited to Welcome Baby, a support group that meets on Thursdays, sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. Learn how to address the needs of infants and yourself, and address feeding concerns and other topics. Childcare is provided. 413-644-0104 x 1159. 442 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 3pm & 5pm – INTERGENERATIONAL SKILL SHARING: Dottie’s Coffee Lounge hosts two knitting groups most Thursdays. The 3pm group is open to all levels, and is led by Kay, who spins her own wool. The 5pm group, led by Caitlin, focuses on teaching and practicing the fundamentals of knitting, but all levels and projects are welcome. 413-443-1792. 444 North Street, Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
- 11:30am-1:30pm – JOB SKILLS: Do you need help finding a job? Do you need assistance in creating or revising a resume and/or with interview skills? The Amherst Survival Center provides support during weekly sessions. And you can also join for lunch between 12pm and 1pm! You can ride the #33 bus right to the door. The Amherst Survival Center, 138 Sunderland Rd., North Amherst, MA. (FREE)
- 12:15pm – FINE ARTS: Visit the Springfield Museums‘ Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts for their popular Thursday Museums a la Carte lectures, featuring presentations on a variety of fine art-related topics! Visitors are welcome to bring a lunch; coffee and cookies will be provided. Intended for older students and adults. Borrow a free museum pass from the library. 800-625-7738. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA. (< $)
- 12:30pm-2:30pm – MOTHER SUPPORT GROUP: There will be a MotherWoman support group every third Thursday at Scantic Valley YMCA. Mothers of babies 12 months and under can come talk about motherhood at this monthly program. 413-583-3527. 45 Post Office Park. Wilbraham, MA. (FREE)
- 1:00pm-3:00pm – PLAYGROUP: Too old for tummy time? Too young for toddler time? Drop into this fun social time for babies at Forbes Library! 413-587-1011. Community Room, Forbes Library, 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)
- 1:30pm-2:30pm – STORYTIME/BILINGUAL: Little ones can come to the Brightwood Library every Thursday for a bilingual story club (English and Spanish). Come sing, dance, play, hear stories in English and Spanish, and meet new friends. 413-263-6805. 359 Plainfield Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)
- 2pm-4pm – KNITTING: Knitting provides an excellent base for intergenerational skill sharing every Thursday. Bring your current project or one you’ve been meaning to start! All levels of knitters are welcome at this Thursday knitting circle, hosted at Dottie’s Coffee Lounge. 413-443-1792. 444 North Street, Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
- 2:30pm-4:30pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: The Hatfield Public Library holds a weekly Crafting Club for ages 5 and up every Thursday! Come to the library and get creative at this fun program. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE)
- 3pm-5pm – STEAM: Kids can attend a STEAM program at the Greenfield Public Library on the third Thursday of each month. A guest presenter will cover either science, technology, engineering, art, or math using a book. 413-772-1544. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)
- 3:30pm-4:45pm – MINECRAFT: Tweens and teens can attend Minecraft Club at the Indian Orchard Branch Library every Thursday. Come make new friends and trade Minecraft tips and tricks! 413-263-6846. 44 Oak Street. Indian Orchard, MA. (FREE)
- 3:30pm-5pm – CHESS: Every second and fourth Thursday, kids are invited to the Mason Library for chess. There will be no instruction provided, so this event is best for kids who already have an understanding of the game. This is a great place to come play with peers, make new friends, and improve your chess skills in a relaxed and supportive environment. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 4pm-5pm – STORYTIME: The Hubbard Library is offering a storytime for students ages 5-8. Every Thursday. 413-583-5646. 24 Center Street. Ludlow, MA. (FREE)
- 4pm-8pm – GAMES/LEGOS: Families can have fun every Thursday at Gaylord 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. (FREE)
- 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)
- 4:30pm – AFTERSCHOOL & YO-YO: Not many toys can boast over 2,500 years of use worldwide, but the yo-yo has enjoyed consistent use in hundreds of cultures for nearly three millenia. The popular Northampton education-based store A to Z hosts Yo-Yo School three times a week inside their store, and their teachers are true masters. Open to all ages, although older elementary children often have the motor skills and coordination needed for it to be a bit easier to learn. Read more about Yo-Yo school on Hilltown Families. Call 413-586-1611. 57 King St., Northampton, MA. (FREE)
- 5pm-6:30pm – LEGO: Kids ages 6 and up can have fun and get creative with LEGOs at the Mason Square Branch Library‘s LEGO Club every Thursday. Call to sign up. 413-263-6853. 765 State Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)
- 5pm-7:30pm – LAWN CONCERT: Stunning scenery, sunsets, and great music await you at the Naumkeag at Night concert series which runs Thursdays through October 29, 2015. Sponsored by The Trustees of Reservations. Bring a picnic dinner and a blanket! 413-339-3239. 5 Prospect Hill Road. Stockbridge, MA. ($)
- 5:30pm – SKILLSHARE/CRAFT GROUP: The Haberdashery holds a Chat ‘n Do every Thursday at 5:30pm. Bring a project you are working on and chat with others, hash out ideas, ask advice, offer tips, and more. This is a good opportunity for intergenerational skill sharing! 413-527-1638. 52 Union Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE)
- 6pm – PARENTING & CLIMATE CHANGE: Mothers Out Front is a group of “mothers and others” who are concerned about climate change and passionate about creating a cleaner energy future for future generations. Learn more about the group’s work and meet other parents with whom to share your stories, hopes, and fears at their monthly climate support gatherings, held every 2nd Tuesday and 4th Thursday of the month. RSVP via the MOF site. Sunderland, MA (Tuesdays) and Florence, MA (Thursdays). (FREE)
- 6:00pm-7pm – LEGOS: The Family Resource Center is offering a LEGO group for ages 4-12 the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. 413-664-4821. North Adams Library, 4th Floor. 74 Church Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- 6pm-8pm – KNITTING: Spruce up your knitting skills and spend time with community members of all ages at the Dickinson Memorial Library‘s knitting group every Thursday evening. All skill levels are welcome. 413-498-2455. 115 Main Street. Northfield, MA. (FREE)
- 6:30pm – GAMES: There will be a family game night the third Thursday of each month at Montague Common Hall. Spend quality time playing games with family and friends. 34 Main Street. Montague, MA. (FREE/DONATION)
- 6:30pm – TRIVIA: Is your mind brimming with all sorts of facts and figures? On the first Thursday of every month, the Jones Library will host a trivia night where you can put this knowledge to a fun use! Individuals may form teams ahead of time or meet up with others at the event and create teams on the spot (no more than 5 members per team). Prizes and refreshments will be shared. Intended for older students and adults. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity Street, Amherst, MA. (< $; SUGGESTED DONATION)
- 6:30pm-8:30pm – TRIVIA: Display your trivia knowledge the first Thursday of each month at the Jones Library‘s trivia night! There will be two rounds of 15 questions and you can either come with a team or form one at the library (teams must be smaller than 5). There will also be prizes and refreshments. 413-259-3090. 43 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. (DONATION $)
- 7pm-7:30pm – STORYTIME: The Hubbard Library will have a “Tuck Me In” storytime for ages 3-7 the first Thursday of each month. Kids can come to the library in pajamas and enjoy this bedtime-themed storytime. Registration is required. 413-583-5646. 24 Center Street. Ludlow, MA. (FREE)
- Time TBD — COMMUNITY BUILDING
Are you a Montague resident who would like to connect with your neighbors to discuss creative ideas? Are you a thinker, feeler, maker or do-er? The Montague Common Hall is accepting proposals for a future monthly program, called Think Tank Thursdays, during which 1 or 2 local experts talk about their passion. If you are an expert, or an amateur expert in some fascinating, strange, or esoteric field, and want to tell people all about it and answer questions in a friendly, informal setting, get in touch! Contact: hannahMCH@doktorwise.com. 34 Main St., Montague, MA (FREE)
Friday, October 16th
Experience life in an early New England kitchen at Historic Deerfield‘s Open Hearth Cooking demonstrations! Learn about traditional fall harvest foods like pumpkins, apples, and corn. These cooking demonstrations allow visitors of all ages to see what life was like in the past and the types of chores and activities they would do had they lived several hundred years ago! Free with admission. 413-774-5581. 84B Old Main Street. Deerfield, MA. ($)Friday, October 16. 10:30am-11:30am — LITERACY & CRAFTING
Reading or listening to a story activates the imagination and can put you in a mindset for expansive creativity. Linking art and books can also help build a love of reading! Children and their caregivers are invited to the Eric Carle Museum‘s Open Book, Open Play mornings, in which they will have a storytime of picture books followed by creative explorations in the art studio. Themes that emerge in the stories will provide inspiration for the art activities that follow. 413-658-1100. 125 West Bay Road, Amherst, MA. (< $)Friday, October 16, 1pm-2:15pm – ORNITHOLOGY/BIRDS OF PREY
Learn about fascinating birds of prey at a live raptor program with wildlife rehabilitator Tom Ricardi at UMass Amherst’s W.E.B. DuBois Library on October 16. All ages will enjoy learning about these amazing creatures. 154 Hicks Way. Amherst, MA. (FREE)Friday, October 16, 2:30pm & 7:30pm – FILM STUDIES
MASS MoCA presents the Wind-Up Fest, formerly the Williamstown Film Festival. The festival is focused on documentary film and creative nonfiction, and socially engaged participatory art. At 2:30pm, attend an interactive variety show, “The Wide, Wonderful World of Wind-Up,” and at 3:30pm see a screening of Abandoned Goods and other shorts, followed by a screening of Very Semi-Serious, which is about New Yorker cartoonists, at 7:30pm. Older students interested in documentary film and art would enjoy the festival. Cost is per each event. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. ($)Friday, October 16, 3:30pm-4:30pm – ARTS & CRAFTS
Come by the Forbes Library for a crafternoon on October 16th. Spend time outside and print leaves, flowers, and other items on light-sensitive paper. 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)Friday, October 16. 5:00pm-6:30pm — SURREALIST PERFORMANCE
Experience landscape-based art and performance with both humor and drama while you traipse around fields and farmland when The Royal Frog Ballet presents the 8th Annual Surrealist Cabaret and Pumpkin Walk. The performance takes audience members traveling through a gorgeous farm landscape at autumnal sunset. Along the way they encounter a surreal collection of short performances, installation pieces, and roving characters created by artists working collaboratively in various media, exploring and celebrating themes of season and place. Please bring a flashlight and wear hiking appropriate footwear and layers for a chilly fall evening in farm country. May be a bit spooky for the youngest in the crowd. Reservations required. Directions sent after reserving tickets. Amherst, MA.($$)Friday, October 16, 5:30pm-6:30pm – CRAFTS/STORYTIME
All ages can do a fun fall craft at the Hatfield Public Library on October 16. Come hear a fall-themed story and do a pumpkin craft using melted crayons. Takes place outside on the lawn. 413-247-9097. 39 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE)Friday, October 16, 5:30pm-8:30pm – HALLOWEEN/HAUNTED TRAIN RIDE
Look Park’s train becomes haunted this Halloween season! Kids 5 and up can enjoy this fun and spooky haunted train ride around the park. Cancelled in case of rain. Runs 10/16-10/18, 10/23-10/25, and 10/30. 413-584-5457. 300 North Main Street. Florence, MA. (>$)Friday, October 16, 5:45pm-7:15pm & 7pm-8:30pm – LOCAL HISTORY
You may know about Edith Wharton’s home, The Mount, but did you know that it’s rumored to be haunted? Come see for yourself on one of The Mount’s ghost tours. The tour will take you through the stables and the main house, where you will learn about and even witness the property’s haunted creaks and footsteps. Not recommended for children under 12. Tickets must be purchased in advance. 413-551-5100. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. ($$)Friday, October 16, 6pm – HALLOWEEN MOVIE
Teens and tweens can come to the Sunderland Public Library for a fun Halloween movie the last three Fridays in October. On 10/16, see Hocus Pocus (1993; rated PG); on 10/23 see Casper (1995; rated PG); and on 10/30 see Gremlins (1984; rated PG). Celebrate Halloween with these classic flicks! 413-665-2642. 20 School Street. Sunderland, MA. (FREE)Friday, October 16. 6:00pm — HILLTOWN HISTORY
Friday, October 16, 7pm-9pm – HAUNTED CORN MAZE
Friday, October 16, 7pm-10pm – HAUNTED HAYRIDE
Looking for some scary fun this Halloween? The Purgatory Road Haunted Hayride features scary clowns and more. Not recommended for children under 12. All proceeds benefit Teen Suicide Prevention Programming. Tickets available in advance at the Dalton CRA. 190 Cleveland Road. Dalton, MA. ($$)Friday, October 16, 7pm-11pm – HAUNTED CORN MAZE
Mike’s Maze has a ton of fun and spooky events lined up for Mike’s at Night this Halloween season. There’s a low-scare flashlight maze ($$), a scarier zombie paintball maze ($$$), and a very scary haunted maze ($$$). Experience the maze at night and have a blast getting lost amongst the corn and trying to find your way out. More info and age guidelines are available on the Mike’s Maze website. Mike’s at Night runs every Friday and Saturday night from September 25-October 31. 413-665-8331. 23 South Main Street. Sunderland, MA. ($$-$$$)Friday, October 16, 7:30pm – MUSIC/CULTURAL STUDIES
October 16th is the 6th annual Berkshire Drum and Dance Fest! Come to Berkshire Community College’s Boland Theater for an evening of rhythm and dance by many musicians and dancers. The Fest is focused on celebratory music from around the world. Some of the featured artists include the Iroko/Nuevo Cuban/Puerto Rican Drum and Dance Troupe, Berkshire Rhythm Keepers, Gaia Roots, Mountain River Taiko, Youth Alive, and many others. There will also be a silent auction and craft marketplace at 7pm. The Fest is a fundraiser for the Tamarack Hollow Nature and Cultural Center Raise the Roof project. 1350 West Street. Pittsfield, MA. (SUGGESTED DONATION $-$$)Friday, October 16, 7:30pm-9pm – GHOST TOUR/LOCAL HISTORY
Learn some spooky local history on a Valley Ghost Tour, which run every Wednesday-Sunday night through November 1 at 7:30pm and start behind Thornes Marketplace in Northampton and in Sweetser Park in Amherst. Explore the town and learn fascinating ghost stories from the past. The tour is family friendly, but keep in mind the stories can be spooky! Dogs are welcome. Please book tickets in advance. Downtown. Amherst & Northampton, MA. ($$)Friday, October 16, 8:30pm – POETRY
The UMass Black Student Union is hosting a poetry jam at the Campus Center Auditorium on October 16. Come hear poetry read by students in the Black Student Union that celebrate the spoken word and self-expression. There will be refreshments and music in addition to the poetry readings. 1 Campus Center Way. Amherst, MA.
ONGOING FOR FRIDAY
(To add your free ongoing event/activity here, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org)
9:30am-3:30pm – GIRLS’ EMPOWERMENT: Full Moon Girls: Nature mentoring. Fridays, October 2, 2015 – May 27, 2016. Ages 9-15. A spot is open for you! FullMoonGirlsInfo@gmail.com. 413-367-6191. Greenhill Center for Outdoor Activities. Conway, MA ($$)
- 9am-10:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Community Network for Children hosts a playgroup for newborns through preschool-aged children with their caregivers at the Shutesbury Elementary School every Friday through June 30, 2016. It may not run on school holidays and in inclement weather; please call ahead to check. 413-259-1212. 23 West Pelham Road, Shutesbury, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am – WRITING: The Edwards Public Library‘s Writing Group meets every Friday. Older students with a passion for writing of any style can attend this supportive intergenerational group. 413-527-9480. 30 East Street. Southampton, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: The Easthampton Family Center is open every Monday, Tuesday, and Friday for drop-in playgroup and activities for kids ages 5 and under. The Family Center follows the Easthampton Public Schools schedule. 413-527-5496. 43 Main Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: Frontier Regional CFCE is offering a playgroup for kids ages 5 and under every Tuesday and Friday at Sunderland Elementary School through June 10, 2016. Follows Sunderland school schedule. 413-665-8928. 1 Swampfield Drive. Sunderland, MA. (FREE)
- 9:30am-11:30am – PLAYGROUP: There will be a weekly playgroup every Friday at Whole Children for children ages 5 and under. 413-585-8010. 41 Russell Street. Hadley, MA. (FREE)
- 10am – PLAYGROUP: Childcare of the Berkshires, Inc. holds a playgroup every Friday at the playground on Narragansett Avenue. 413-664-4821. Narragansett Avenue. Lanesborough, MA. (FREE)
- 10am & 2pm – GEOLOGY: Learn about the fascinating geology of Natural Bridge State Park at their Marvelous Marble Tour every Friday at 10am & 2pm. Join a park interpreter for an easy walk around the park exploring its geologic history and the remains of the 19th- and 20th-century marble quarry that once operated on the grounds. All ages will enjoy exploring the park and learning some interesting local geology. 413-663-6392. McCauley Road. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- 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)
- 10am-11am – PRENATAL SUPPORT: Exercise and emotional support are both important components of a healthy pregnancy. Get some of both at a walk and talk group that allows pregnant women to gather, support each other, and learn together. Each session begins with a walk and ends with a sit-down talk about topics such as nutrition, health, and infant care. This group is sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. Childcare is provided. 413-644-0104 x 1159. 442 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-11am — BABY & ME/PLAYGROUP Pittsfield CFCE hosts an interactive Baby & Me Playgroup for parents with babies ages 1 and under each Friday. Explore and connect with others, and learn from guest speakers. Pre-registration required. 413-441-0974. 480 West Street. Pittsfield, MA (FREE)
- 10am-12noon – PLAYGROUP: Drop-in time at the Haskins Center every Friday. Come play and make friends every week. 413-664-4821. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-12noon – MOTHER SUPPORT GROUP: There will be a MotherWoman support group every Friday at the Community Action Family Center. Expectant mothers and moms of infants can attend this group to discuss adjustment to motherhood. Childcare provided; babies in arms welcome. 413-387-0703. 220 Russell Street. Hadley, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-12noon – MOTHER SUPPORT GROUP: There will be a MotherWoman support group every Friday at the MotherWoman Office. Expectant mothers and moms of infants through preschoolers can attend this group to discuss all aspects of motherhood. Childcare provided for ages 4 and under. 413-256-1145. 1200 North Pleasant Street. Amherst, MA. (FREE)
- 10am-12pm – PLAYGROUP: Incorporate much-needed physical activity into your child’s day by participating in Skip & Dip, a high-energy playgroup sponsored by Community Health Programs of Berkshire County. This group, which meets on Fridays, starts with an hour of playtime in the gym with assorted toys and equipment, followed by an hour of swimming in the pool. 413-644-0104. Berkshire South Regional Community Center, 15 Crissey Road, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am – PLAYGROUP: Playgroup/storytime every Wednesday at Edwards Library. 30 East Street. Southampton, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am – STORYTIME: Every Friday is Bounce and Rhyme Storytime at the Monson Free Library! Kids 2 ½ and younger can come enjoy stories, songs, and rhymes. 413-267-3866. 2 High Street. Monson, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am – MOVEMENT: The Chicopee Public Library holds a weekly Music and Movement program for kids ages 5 and under every Friday. Come have fun moving, singing, and dancing. 413-594-1800. 449 Front Street. Chicopee, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am – STORYTIME: Families can attend the “Family Frolic Storytime” every Friday at Gaylord Memorial Library! Enjoy stories, musical plays, and crafts. 413-538-5047. 47 College Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am-11:30am – MUSIC & PLAYGROUP: Children ages 2-5 with their caregivers are invited to the Mason Library‘s Sing N Play group every Friday. Please register in advance for one 4-week session. New sessions begin each month. 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am-11:30am – STORYTIME/ART/MUSIC Toddlers ages 2-5 with their caregivers are invited to the Ramsdell Library every Friday for the “Time for Tots” group. This hour of fun will include stories, songs, art, and movement. 413-274-3738. 1087 Main Street, Housatonic, MA. (FREE)
- 10:30am-11:30am – STORYTIME: The East Forest Park Library offers infants (birth) – 3 year olds for stories, songs, a craft, and playtime. Runs Oct. 16 – Nov. 20. Adult must accompany children, siblings welcome. No registration required. 413-263-6836. 122 Island Pond Rd., Springfield, MA. (FREE)
- 11am-12pm – STORYTIME: Preschool Story Time on the first Friday of every month through the end of June at the Cushman Library. Stories, coloring, crafts, songs, activities, snacks, and more. 413-648-5402. 28 Church Street. Bernardston, MA. (FREE)
- 11:00am – STORYTIME: The Sunderland Public Library’s Head of Youth Services, Kelly Daniels Baker, invites children ages 3-5 and their families to a preschool storytime. Includes stories, songs, finger plays, and crafts. Sunderland Public Library, 20 School St., Sunderland, MA. (FREE)
- 11am-11:30am – MUSEUM-BASED PLAY: Visit the Berkshire Museum for WeeMuse Adventures, a weekly program every Friday that will feature songs, stories, scavenger hunts, playtime, and more. Intended audience is children 18 months – 3 years with a caregiver; siblings welcome. Borrow a free museum pass from the library. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street, Pittsfield, MA. ($)
- 11:00-12:50pm – ICE SKATING: Want to teach a child how to ice skate but find it difficult to navigate the ice when it is so crowded? The Mullins Center on the UMass Amherst Campus offers a “just for families” skate (no college students) every Friday throughout the school year. You can borrow ice skates or bring your own. Skate rental is free with paid admission. Parents and caregivers skate free when accompanying children. Call to confirm: 413-545-2791, Mullins Center. 200 Commonwealth Ave., University of Massachusetts-Amherst. Amherst, MA (<$)
- 11:30am-1:30pm – PLAYGROUP: Parents/caregivers and their babies, ages 0-15 months, can come to “Welcome Baby” every Friday at the Storrs Library. This program, run by Pathways for Parents, is all about the importance of reading, music, and interactive play. Call to sign up. 413-565-4182. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)
- 12:15pm – LOCAL HISTORY: Learn about a number of unique facets of local history at the Amherst Historical Society & Museum‘s History Bites lunchtime lecture series. On selected Fridays through December 2015, all are invited to bring a lunch and listen to a program on a different topic. October 9 focuses on the New England pie tradition, October 23’s topic is Amherst’s Garden Club, November 6 highlights local landscapes and related art collections, November 20’s talk is about the economy of rural New England, and December 4’s topic is “A Story of the Street.” Simeon Strong House, 67 Amity Street, Amherst, MA. (FREE)
- 1:00pm-3:00pm — CRAFTING: Sheep & Shawl yarn and fiber arts shop in South Deerfield, MA offers Knit/Crochet/Spin Circles every Friday afternoon. 413-397-3680. 265 Greenfield Rd., South Deerfield, MA. (FREE)
- 3:30pm-4:30pm – MINECRAFT: The Storrs Library has a Minecraft Club for kids in grades 3 and up every Friday. Call to sign up. 413-565-4181. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)
- 5pm-8pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: The first Friday of each month, First Friday Greenfield takes place downtown. Stores and restaurants will be open late, and there will be music, activities, art shows, and more. Support local businesses and explore everything Greenfield has to offer at this fun monthly event. Downtown. Greenfield, MA.
- 5:30pm-8pm – GAMES: Game night happens at A2Z Science and Learning Store. Stop by on a Friday night to meet up with others and try out new games. Suitable for older children and teens. Ongoing. 413-586-1611. 57 King Street, Northampton, MA. (FREE)
- 6pm-8:30pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT: Parents/caregivers can drop off kids ages 3-12 at Berkshire South Regional Community Center while you enjoy date night every Friday! Kids will enjoy swimming, activities, pizza, and stories. Cost includes pizza dinner. Reservations required at least 48 hours in advance. 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road. Great Barrington, MA. ($)
- 7:30pm – ASTRONOMY: Have you ever learned about an eclipse, comet, meteor shower, or other celestial event after it happened? Don’t miss out on another one! The “Stars over Springfield” observatory series invites the public to learn about and enjoy the night sky with the help of the Springfield Science Museum‘s large rooftop telescope on the first Friday of every month. There will be a short talk on an astronomy-related topic, followed by opportunities to view celestial objects of interest. These programs are best suited for families with children ages 8 and up, although younger children are also welcome. In case of clouds or rain, a planetarium show will replace the outdoor viewing. Borrow a free museum pass from the library. 413-263-6800 x 318. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA. (< $)
- 8pm – TALENT SHOW: The first Friday of every month, the Valley Talent Showcase takes place at Gateway City Arts. Come watch local bands, musicians, dancers, and more perform on stage, or sign up to participate and gain experience performing onstage for an audience. This is a great chance to see some talented local groups perform or to get your name out there. 413-650-2670. 92-114 Race Street. Holyoke, MA. (< $)
- 8pm-9pm – ASTRONOMY: Autumn nights offer wonderful skywatching, and with the help of Williams College students and their Zeiss Skymaster planetarium projector, folks can really be treated to a wonderfully informative and awe-inspiring tour of the night sky and astronomical phenomena. This planetarium program will be held most Friday evenings through December 4, 2015. Reservations are recommended. 413-597-2188. Hopkins Observatory, 829 Main Street, Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Hilltown Families’ list of Weekly Suggested Events is supported in part by a grant from the Amherst, Ashfield, Bernardston, Chesterfield, Conway, Erving, Goshen, Heath, Holyoke, Leyden, Pelham, Shutesbury, South Hadley, Warwick, Williamsburg and Worthington Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
