Hilltown Families 
Berkshire Family Fun: January 2016
Berkshire County Highlights for Families:
January 2016
“I like the ability to see what is happening in the area. We have experienced many different and delightful events that I would not known of if I did not know about the [Hilltown Families] eNewsletter.” – Kathy Couch (East Otis, MA)
To find out what’s happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, check our comprehensive list of Weekly Suggested Events, published every Thursday!
There you will also find our list of ongoing weekday playgroups, storyhours and events both in Berkshire County and throughout the region.
Berkshire Family Fun, a project of Hilltown Families, is sponsored in part by MASS MoCA:
Berkshire Family Fun is also supported in part by a grant from the Hinsdale/Peru, Monterey, North Berkshire, Pittsfield, Washington, and Windsor Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
North Berkshire
Adams | Cheshire | Florida | Hancock | Lanesborough | Monterey | North Adams | Williamstown | Windsor
Central Berkshire | South Berkshire
Support Hilltown Families!
Both children and adults can benefit greatly from mentor relationships, and Childcare of the Berkshires’ Youth Mentoring Program offers mentor opportunities to local community members! Youth participants ages 8-14 can be matched with adult mentors to build relationships, learn new skills, and develop interests – all in a supportive and fun environment!
Friday, January 29, 10am — CREATIVE FREE PLAY/STEM
Children can learn about basic math skills, counting, shapes and colors at a Polar Bear Picnic sponsored by the Family Center of Northern Berkshire County at Adams Free Library. Registration requested. 413-664-4821. 92 Park Street, Adams, MA. (FRE
Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum. 413-743-7121. 67 East Road. Adams, MA.
Abbot School — 56 North Country Road.
Hancock Shaker Village. 1843 W Housatonic St. 413-443-0188
Friday, January 1, 12pm and 1pm —
NATURE-BASED/GUIDED HIKES
Get the new year off to a healthy start by joining MassParks and people at state parks across the country for a First Day Hike. Meet at Mt. Greylock Reservation (Visitor Center) in Lanesborough at 12pm or the Great Falls Discovery Center in Turners Falls at 1pm. Hiking promotes mental and physical well-being. Wear winter boots, and dress in layers. 617-626-1450. Various locations, MA. (FREE)
Bascom Lodge 413-743-1591. 30 Rockwell Road.
Lanesborough Library — 413-499-5981. 83 North Main Street.
Mt. Greylock — 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road.
Bidwell House Museum – 413-528-6888. 100 Art School Road.
Ashintully — 413-298-3239. Sodom Road
Monday, January 4, 11am-5pm — MUSEUM ADVENTURES
North Adams residents: One of the world’s premier centers for making and showing the best modern art is right in your backyard, and today it’s free. See something new in one of the temporary exhibitions or revisit your favorite permanent works at MASS MoCA on the 4th of the month, when it’s free for 01247 residents. Bring an official ID or utility bill with your address on it. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Monday, January 18, 9am-2pm — SERVICE LEARNING/COMMUNITY MEAL/MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
Step forward to better your community during the MLK Day of Service sponsored by The Northern Berkshire Community Coalition. Participate in one of 17 projects throughout the community then enjoy a free lunch and celebration that includes inspirational remarks, music, and presentation of the 2016 Peacemaker Award. The first 200 registrants receive free passes to the North Adams Skating Rink. Read a brief biography of the civil rights leader here. 413-663-7588. Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, Church Street Center, 375 Church Street, North Adams MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 23, 10am-2pm — COMMUNITY INTENTIONS/QUILTING
Williams College artist-in-residence Emily Johnson and her company Catalyst asked people across the country to share intentions for themselves and their communities on squares of fabric. You can help stitch these wishes into 80 quilts at a Community Sewing Bee at Makers’ Mill.The quilts will be used at a night of stargazing and performance in Williamstown in Spring 2017. No experience necessary, and all are welcome to be part of this project to spread joy. 413-749-2073. 73 Main Street, North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Monday, January 25, 10am-11am — PARENTING SUPPORT/SPECIAL NEEDS
Parents of children with special needs can find support and understanding from fellow parents at Our Children, Ourselves, a support group sponsored by the Family Center of Northern Berkshire County at the Johnson School. Share resources, challenges, and joys! Focused on parents of kids from birth to eight years old. Snacks provided. Call ahead to arrange free transportation and child care. 413-664-4821. Haskins Center Conference Room. 210 State Street.North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Monday, January 25, 5:30pm-6:30pm — PLAYGROUP/DADS
Why should moms have all the fun? At Dad and Me Playtime and Pizza at the Family Center of Northern Berkshire County, fathers and grandfathers can bond with their kids and each other over pizza and activities. 413-664-4821. Haskins Center Gym, 210 State Street, North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Tuesday, January 26, 5:30pm-7:30pm — PARENTING SKILLS
Most parents want their children to behave well but also be able to express themselves. Learn to be both firm and kind with your children and foster creative cooperation and self-discipline in an eight-week Positive Discipline course sponsored by the Family Center of Northern Berkshire County. Meets every Tuesday through March 22 at Head Start Johnson School. Registration required. 413-664-4821. 21 Williams Street, North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, January 28, 5:30pm-7:30pm — PARENTING SUPPORT
In the Game of Parenting, it helps to have support. The Parent Cafe, sponsored by the Family Center of Northern Berkshire County, is a game of conversation where parents share the joys and challenges of parenting and learn from one another. Enjoy a FREE meal, transportation and child care. Takes place at Johnson School Head Start; registration requested. 413-664-4821. 21 Williams Street, North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, January 28, 6pm-7pm — CREATIVE FREE PLAY/STEM/LEGOS
Playing with LEGOS strengthens problem-solving skills and builds fine motor skills, while promoting creativity. The Evening LEGO Group, sponsored by the Family Center of Northern Berkshire County, meets on the third floor of the North Adams Public Library.
For ages 4-12; facilitated by parent Erin Connolly. 413-664-4821. 74 Church Street, North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 30, 11am-7pm — MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Come to MASS MoCA for Free Day 2016, a day of music, family art projects, gallery tours, and pop-up performances. Enjoy one of the world’s premier centers for making and showing the best modern art. Also view the results of the Kidspace artist residency with North Adams and North Berkshire students. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 30, 11am-5pm — MUSEUM ADVENTURES/MODERN ART
Come to MASS MoCA for Free Day 2016, a day of music, family art projects, gallery tours, and pop-up performances. Enjoy one of the world’s premier centers for making and showing the best modern art. Also view the results of the Kidspace artist residency with North Adams and North Berkshire students. 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams, MA. (FREE)
North Adams Farmers’ Market 413-664-6180. St. Anthony Drive & Route 8.
Western Gateway Heritage State Park 413-663-6312. 115 State Street.
North Adams Public Library 413-662-3133. 74 Church Street.
MASS MoCA 413-662-2111. 1040 MASS MoCA Way.
Haskins Community Center 413-664-4821. 210 State Street.
Natural Bridge State Park — 413-663-6392. McCauley Road..
Object Lab Williams College Museum of Art. January 22, 2016 through August 7, 2016
This unique gallery displays works of art selected by Williams faculty from across disciplines and makes visible how works of art are used in courses across the curriculum. Object Lab at Williams College Museum of Art changes each semester and highlights how professors deeply embed art into their teachings. This exhibit also allows viewer to truly appreciate the impact of visual learning. The exhibit is on display from January 22, 2016 through August 7, 2016 at Williams College Museum of Art. 15 Lawrence Hall Drive, Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
African Art Against the State Williams College Museum of Art. January 29, 2016 through August 28, 2016
This cultural exhibit highlights the long and extraordinary history of activism, intervention, and resistance that has characterized a great deal of African art-making from prehistory to the present. African Art Against the State at Williams College Museum of Art will utilize a select group of objects from various traditions and artistic moments to spotlight how art has been used as a mechanism of mediation across both space and time, while giving teeth to the adage that sometimes images can speak louder than words. The exhibition aims to underscore how artists have used expressive culture in Africa to produce advocacy and agency for disenfranchised and marginalized groups and communities.The exhibit is on display from January 29, 2016 through August 28, 2016 at Williams College Museum of Art. 15 Lawrence Hall Drive, Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, January 3, 10am-5pm — MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Every first Sunday of the month, The Clark Art Institute offers free admission! The Clark Art Institute, located in north Berkshire County, is one of a small number of institutions globally that is both an art museum and a center for research, critical discussion, and higher education in the visual arts. Opened in 1955, the Clark houses exceptional European and American paintings and sculpture, extensive collections of master prints and drawings, English silver, and early photography. The Clark library, open to the public with more than 240,000 volumes, is one of the nation’s premier art history libraries. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street, Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Friday, January 8, 10:15am – MUSEUM ADVENTURES
The Clark Art Institute is holding a New Parents Gallery Talk. New parents and their infants are welcome to visit the museum for an informal guided talk. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street, Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 9, 10am-12pm — ART STUDIES
Art gives preschoolers the chance to express their feelings and practice their fine motor skills. The Clark Art Institute‘s Start with Art program offers themed talks, gallery guides, and art-making activities for three-to-six-year-old and their parents. Art project-appropriate clothing recommended. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street, Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Monday, January 18, 2pm — CIVIL RIGHTS/FILM STUDIES/MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
The Clark Art Institute presents Selma (PG-13, 2014) in the Michael Conforti Pavilion. The movie chronicles the activities of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and his supporters in the months leading up to the historic march from Selma to Montgomery, which led to the signing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by President Lyndon Johnson. King consistently guided his followers in nonviolent resistance and thus achieved one of the most important successes of the civil rights movement. What parallels can be drawn between the events portrayed in the movie and those of the Black Lives Matter movement that is active today? Best suited for mature tweens and teens. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street, Williamstown, MA. ($)
Thursday, January 28, 5pm-8pm — MUSEUM ADVENTURES/ART STUDIES
During the month of January, Williams College students in the Mapping the Museum class have developed projects that engage the Williams College Museum of Art and its collections and staff in unorthodox ways. Come enjoy an evening of “petite interventions” curated by class leader and socially engaged artist Lexa Walsh. 413-597-2429. 15 Lawrence Hall Drive, Suite 2, Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 30, 6pm — PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT/CLASSICAL MUSIC
The Four Nations Ensemble performs Baroque music inspired by works in the Clark Art Institute‘s collections. The group will play music with a theme of “goddess and laundress” to complement paintings by Francois Boucher and Hubert Robert. A French country supper will follow at 7:30pm, at an additional cost. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street, Williamstown, MA. ($)
Milne Public Library 413-458-5369. 1095 Main Street.
Williamstown Rural Lands Foundation 413-458-2494. 671 Cold Spring Road.
Clark Art Institute 413-458-2303. 225 South Street.
Images Cinema. 413-458-5612. 50 Spring Street.
Sweet Brook Farm — 413-884-4246. 580 Oblong Road.
Williams College Museum of Art — 413-597-2376. 15 Lawrence Hall Drive.
Williamstown Youth Center — 413-458-5925. 270 Cole Avenue.
Sunday, January 3, 10am-1pm — OUTDOOR ADVENTURES/NORDIC SKIING
Add some excitement to your skiing and fitness regime by taking part in the Nordic Race Series: Kick Off Classic at Notchview Reservation, with 2, 5, and 10K citizens tour, race, and party. This informal race series is sponsored by the Berkshire Trail Nordic Ski Club. Throughout the season, there will be a mix of both classical and freestyle races, at both 5K and 10K distances. 413-684-0148. Route 9, Windsor, MA. (<$ Members, $ Non-members)
Sunday, January 9, 10am-3pm — NATURE-BASED/SKIING/SNOWSHOEING
Have you been wanting to try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing but don’t know how to start? Come to Winter Trails Day at Notchview Reservation and learn how to enjoy these fun ways to exercise outdoors in winter! Free ski and snowshoe lessons, wax clinic, tips on dressing for winter sports, and snowshoe hike. Half-price trail passes allow use of skis and snowshoes for two hours. Quantities limited; first-come, first-served. 413-684-0148. Route 9, Windsor, MA. (<$)
Sunday, January 17, 10am — OUTDOOR ADVENTURES/CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
Add some excitement to your fitness routine by testing your abilities against other skiers. The Berkshire Trails Nordic Ski Club hosts a low-key 15K skate race at Notchview Reservation. 413-684-0148. Route 9, Windsor, MA. (<$ Members, $ Non-members)
Saturday, January 23, 10am-3pm — NATURE-BASED/SKIING/SNOWSHOEING
Have you been wanting to try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing but don’t know how to start? Come to Winter Trails Day at Notchview Reservation and learn how to enjoy these fun ways to exercise outdoors in winter! Free ski and snowshoe lessons, wax clinic, tips on dressing for winter sports, and snowshoe hike. Half-price trail passes allow use of skis and snowshoes for two hours. Quantities limited; first-come, first-served. 413-684-0148. Route 9, Windsor, MA. (<$)
Notchview Reservation 413-684-0148. Route 9. Windsor, MA.
Central Berkshire
Becket | Dalton | Hinsdale | Lee | Lenox | Peru | Pittsfield | Richmond | Stockbridge | Tyringham | Washington | West Stockbridge
North Berkshire | South Berkshire
Support Hilltown Families!
Dalton Free Public Library 0 413-684-6112. 462 Main Street.
Crane Museum of Papermaking — Visit the Crane Museum of Papermaking to learn about the history of papermaking at Crane since the early 1800’s. Located on the banks of the Housatonic River, the building itself is a museum! This is a great opportunity to learn about local history. The museum is open weekdays from 1-5pm. — 413-684-2600. 30 South Street. (FREE)
Friday, January 22, 3pm-4pm — STEM/LEGOS/TEENS
LEGOs aren’t just for kids — they can be used to create sophisticated projects using robotics. Challenge your creative and collaborative skills by building and programming a robot with your friends at Teen LEGO Robotics at the Lee Library. 413-243-0385. 100 Main Street, Lee, MA. (FREE)
Spectrum Playhouse – 413-394-5023. 20 Franklin Street.
South Berkshire Kids – 413-464-5095. 100 Main Street.
Lee Library – 413-243-0385. 100 Main Street.
Wednesday, January 6, 10am-1pm — NATURE-BASED/HIKING
In addition to improving physical health, hiking promotes a feeling of wellbeing that can counter the “winter blues.” Join the Berkshire Natural Resources Council for a trek from Olivia’s Overlook to Monk’s Pond, returning by the Brothers Trail. Enjoy views of the Berkshires and impressive stone work. Easy, three-mile hike with moderate elevation gain. Depending on weather conditions, microspikes or snowshoes may be necessary. Bring water, a snack, and plenty of layers. See website for directions. 413-499-0596. Lenox, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 23, 9am-12:30pm — NATURE BASED/SNOWSHOEING/TEENS
Join Mass Audubon for a moderately strenuous hike on snowshoes at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. The three-mile round-trip trek leads to a 50-mile view atop Lenox Mountain (2,126 feet). Along the way, you’ll pass through a northern hardwood forest, tracking wildlife and identifying trees by their bark. The winter woods, barren of leaves, reveal secrets that are kept in summer. Bring your own snowshoes or borrow theirs. Cross-country ski poles or trekking poles are recommended. Best suited for teens and adults. 413-637-0320. 427 West Mountain Road, Lenox, MA. (FREE Members and Lenox Residents, <$ Non-members)
Saturday, January 23, 10:30am-12noon — NATURE BASED/SNOWSHOEING
Have you been trying to keep your family more active this winter? Join Mass Audubon for a family hike on snowshoes at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Snowshoeing is an easy-to-learn sport for all ages that promotes physical activity and social interaction. Start with an introduction to equipment and safety, then head out for a trek through wetlands and across gentle slopes. Dress warmly and in layers. Bring snowshoes if you have them. A limited number of adult and child snowshoes are available if reserved ahead of time. Suitable for children ages 5-12 and their caregivers. 413-637-0320. 427 West Mountain Road, Lenox, MA. (<$ Members, $ Non-members)
Sunday, January 24, 4pm — INTERGENERATIONAL/PHILOSOPHY
Philosopher and author Daniel Klein, seeking guidance on living the best life he could, started collecting quotes from the great philosophers when he was a young college student. Now in his eighth decade, he shares some of his favorites, from luminaries such as Epicurus, Emerson, and Camus, along with his own charming insights, in Every Time I Find the Meaning of Life, They Change It. He will discuss the book as part of the Distinguished Lecture Series, in the Sedgwick Reading Room at The Lenox Library. 413-637-2630. 18 Main Street, Lenox, MA. (FREE)
Lenox Library — 413-637-0197. 18 Main Street.
Lenox Historical Society — Main Street.
The Mount – 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street.
Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary – 472 West Mountain Road.
Shakespeare and Company – 413-637-3353. 70 Kemble Street.
Ventfort Hall – 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street.
Begins Jan 27
Pittsfield, MA – Winter/Spring enrollment! Join UBU Theater’s Middle and High School Teen theater programs at the Boys and Girls Club of the Berkshires. No auditions! Just bring commitment and curiosity to explore theater through acting, improvisation, theater games, voice and movement, devising, ensemble work, scenes, monologues, plays. Includes 2 final performances. Starts January 27th, Monday’s and Wednesday’s. High School 3-4:30pm, Middle School 5:30-7pm. Register www.bgcberkshires.org. 16 Melville St. Pittsfield, MA. 413-448-8258. $10 Club membership plus $10 activity fee. Homeschoolers welcome. Alternatively, contact UBU Theater directly for individualized homeschool groups at ubutheater@icloud.com.
Berkshire Now: Peter Gordon. Berkshire Museum. On view through February 21, 2016
This solo show of collages and paintings by Peter Gordon offers a powerful reminder of how our use of natural resources, goods, and services impact the environment. Using a contrast of natural and manmade elements, Berkshire Now: Peter Gordon at the Berkshire Museum emphasizes the fragility of the ecosystem in the context of modern society. In vivid collages, Gordon uses clippings of prices, sales slogans, and real estate offerings as the backdrops for animals, out of place in their now unfamiliar territory. Gordon hopes that his work will encourage viewers to make and promote environmentally conscious decisions in their daily lives. The exhibit is on display now through February 21, 2016 at the Berkshire Museum. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street, Pittsfield, MA. (FREE W/ADMISSION)
Saturday, January 2, 11am — MUSEUM ADVENTURES/STEAM
Create your own watercolors and “snow dough” at WeeMuse:Art Lab at the Berkshire Museum. What is the science behind your creations? 413-443-7171. 39 South Street (Route 7), Pittsfield, MA. ($ Members, $$ Non-members)
Out of the Studio
Lichtenstein Center for the Arts
January 8, 2016 through January 30, 2016
In this new exhibit, Out of the Studio at Lichtenstein Center for the Arts, the gallery will be transformed to present the work of eight local artists who have crafted artwork reflective of themselves and their environment. The display will feature art from resident visual and performing artists in various mediums, including paint, sculpture, and dance. The show is designed to exemplify the vibrant arts community characteristic of Pittsfield. The exhibit runs now through January 30, 2016 at the Lichtenstein Center for the Arts. 413-499-9348. 28 Renne Avenue, Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 9, 9am-1pm — LOCAL FOOD/FARMERS’ MARKET
Come to the Downtown Pittsfield Winter Farmers Market at the Boys’ and Girls’ Club Lighthouse Cafe. Shop for pasture-raised meats, eggs, cheese, fruits, vegetables, breads, baked goods, coffee, wine, art, and more. This is an opportunity to teach your kids where and how food is grown in Western Mass. Enjoy live music at 11:30am. 16 Melville Street, Pittsfield, MA. (MARKET/SALE)
Saturday, January 16, 7pm — INCLUSION/TECHNOLOGY/FILM STUDIES
Although jobs in the technology industry are growing faster than colleges can produce computer science graduates, the number of tech positions held by women has declined, from roughly one-third to one-quarter, over the last 25 years. African-Americans and Hispanics are also underrepresented in the field. Code: Debugging the Gender Gap (Not rated, 2015), showing at the Berkshire Museum, examines how cultural mindsets, stereotypes, and other factors brought about this imbalance and endeavors to inspire change. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street (Route 7), Pittsfield, MA. (<$ Members, $ Non-members)
Sunday, January 17, 12noon-5pm — CREATIVE FREE PLAY/STEM
Inventing is not just for grownups. When he was 11, Benjamin Franklin created a pair of paddles for his hands to help him swim faster. Put on your thinking cap and create something new during Kid Inventors’ Day, celebrated on Franklin’s birthday, at the Berkshire Museum. Work to solve local and global problems with the materials and ideas provided in Spark!Lab. Do hands-on activities, and participate in the Spark!Lab Invent It Challenge. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street (Route 7), Pittsfield, MA. (FREE Members, $ Non-members)
Sunday, January 17, 7pm — INCLUSION/TECHNOLOGY/FILM STUDIES
Although jobs in the technology industry are growing faster than colleges can produce computer science graduates, the number of tech positions held by women has declined, from roughly one-third to one-quarter, over the last 25 years. African-Americans and Hispanics are also underrepresented in the field. Code: Debugging the Gender Gap (Not rated, 2015), showing at the Berkshire Museum, examines how cultural mindsets, stereotypes, and other factors brought about this imbalance and endeavors to inspire change. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street (Route 7), Pittsfield, MA. (<$ Members, $ Non-members)
Monday, January 18, 9am-2:30pm — COMMUNITY SERVICE/MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
Make this day of remembrance count for those in your community! As part of Berkshire Community College‘s Third Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, volunteers can choose from three service projects: Cooking and serving a free community lunch at First United Methodist Church; helping Central Berkshire Habitat for Humanity with an indoor renovation; or leading activities for children and teens at Gladys Allen Brigham Community Center. Breakfast and lunch provided for volunteers. Read about the meaning of Martin Luther King, Jr., Day in the words of Coretta Scott King. 413-236-2177. 55 Fenn Street, Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Monday, January 18, 1:30pm and 7pm — INCLUSION/TECHNOLOGY/FILM STUDIES
Although jobs in the technology industry are growing faster than colleges can produce computer science graduates, the number of tech positions held by women has declined, from roughly one-third to one-quarter, over the last 25 years. African-Americans and Hispanics are also underrepresented in the field. Code: Debugging the Gender Gap (Not rated, 2015), showing at the Berkshire Museum, examines how cultural mindsets, stereotypes, and other factors brought about this imbalance and endeavors to inspire change. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street (Route 7), Pittsfield, MA. (<$ Members, $ Non-members)
Wednesday, January 20, 4pm-5pm — STEM/COMPUTERS
Engineer Tom Patton will lead a 10-week Programming Camp every Wednesday at the Berkshire Museum. Participants will learn programming basics and design and build their own “Etch-a-Sketches” to take home on the last day. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street (Route 7), Pittsfield, MA. (FREE Members, $ Non-members)
ArtZoo. Berkshire Museum. January 23, 2016 through May 1, 2016
Set out on an adventure at this family-friendly exhibition that explores a magnificent menagerie of creatures portrayed in photograph, painting, sculpture, ceramic, video, and more! Grouped by species, as in a real zoo, ArtZoo at the Berkshire Museum features wild animals from every corner of the world. Scientific specimens – a pair of real sea turtles, a life-size ostrich skeleton, and enormous 10-inch eggs – provide an unmatched visual and educational experience. Interactive activities like Animal Yoga, a live monitor lizard, games, and a zoo quest are also included. Visitors of all ages will marvel at the variety of ways artists have chosen to portray animals. Since many of the objects are from the Museum’s permanent collection, ArtZoo provides a fun and unique opportunity to view some of these rarely seen items. The exhibit begins on January 23, 2016 and will be on display through May 1, 2016 at the Berkshire Museum. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street, Pittsfield, MA. (FREE W/ADMISSION)
Saturday, January 23, 10am-11am — ART CONSERVATION
If you’ve invested in a fine art print, you want to make sure you take care of it. During Learner’s Lab: Caring for Art Prints, staff from Museum Facsimiles will demonstrate how to mat, store, and maintain your investment. At the Berkshire Museum. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street (Route 7), Pittsfield, MA. (FREE Members, $ Non-members)
Saturday, January 23, 5pm-7pm — MUSEUM ADVENTURES/ART STUDIES/ANIMAL STUDIES
Look a rhinoceros in the eye, watch a jaguar attack a caiman, and get up close and personal with a live monitor lizard during a Family Friendly Preview Party of the Berkshire Museum‘s new ArtZoo exhibit. Set up by species, like a real zoo, animals are portrayed in photos, paintings, sculptures, ceramic, video, and more. There are also scientific specimens and interactive stations. How does each artist capture the essence of the creature in the chosen medium? Can you do a butterfly pose? Come learn about wild animals and art in the warmth and safety of the museum. RSVP. 413-443-7171, ext. 313. 39 South Street (Route 7), Pittsfield, MA. (FREE Members, $ Non-members)
Saturday, January 30, 10:30am-12noon — NATURE-BASED/SNOWSHOEING
Have you been trying to keep your family active this winter? Join Mass Audubon for a family hike on snowshoes at Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary. Snowshoeing is an easy-to-learn sport for all ages that promotes physical activity and social interaction. Start with an introduction to equipment and safety, then head out for a trek through wetlands and across gentle slopes. Dress warmly and in layers. Bring snowshoes if you have them. A limited number of adult and child snowshoes are available if reserved ahead of time. Suitable for children ages 5-12 and their caregivers. 413-637-0320. Holmes Road, Pittsfield, MA. (<$ Members, $ Non-members)
The Berkshire Athenaeum 413-499-4809. 1 Wendell Avenue.
Berkshire Humane Society 413-447-7878. 214 Barker Road.
Berkshire Lyric Theatre – 413-499-0258
Berkshire Museum – 413-443-7171 x10. 39 South Street.
Berkshire Music School — 413-442-1411. 30 Wendell Ave.
Colonial Theatre — 413-298-5576. 111 South Street.
Downtown Pittsfield Farmers’ Market. First Street.
First Friday Artswalk — Downtown.
Hancock Shaker Village – 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street.
Herman Melville’s Arrowhead. 413-442-1793. 780 Holmes Road.
Hilltop Orchard — Route 295.
Masters of the Golden Age: Harvey Dunn and His Students
Norman Rockwell Museum
November 7, 2016 through March 13, 2016
Harvey Dunn was an illustrator best known for depicting the harsh realities of World War I combat, as well as portraying the healing comfort of life on the prairie. Dunn is also credited for instructing and inspiring a number of successful artists, such as Dean Cornwell, Mead Schaeffer, Harold von Schmidt, and Lyman Anderson, among others. This exhibit, Masters of the Golden Age: Harvey Dunn and His Students at the Norman Rockwell Museum, will feature over 85 paintings by Dunn and his prodigious students. Displays will also include illustrations from prominent periodicals, including Harper’s and The Saturday Evening Post. Harvey Dunn was an influential and vital part of our visual history. His work captivates viewers as it documents the adventure and mystery of the World War I era, while also providing an intimate and historic glimpse of homestead life on the prairies of South Dakota. This exhibit will be on display now through March 13, 2016 at the Norman Rockwell Museum. 413-298-4100. Route 183, Stockbridge, MA. ($$)
Saturday, January 2, 1pm-4pm — CREATIVE FREE PLAY/ART STUDIES
Drop In on Art at the Norman Rockwell Museum all through school vacation! Write your own story lines, develop characters and plots, and create settings, using pieces on display as inspiration. Engaging in art builds motor skills, promotes language development, and strengthens decision-making abilities. Monday through Saturday, except Friday, January 1. Every day is different, with art educators who promote experimentation with materials and techniques. Open to all ages. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183, Stockbridge, MA. (FREE Members, $$ Non-members)
Wednesday, January 6, 1pm — US HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES
In his January 6, 1941 address to Congress, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt articulated his vision for a postwar world founded on four basic human freedoms: freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. In 1943, Norman Rockwell was inspired to illustrate the President’s ideas through a iconic series of paintings that toured the nation, helping sell 133 million dollars in war bonds and stamps in the process. In commemoration of the 75th anniversary of The Four Freedoms, Norman Rockwell Museum will present an afternoon talk and performance that pays tribute to President Roosevelt’s speech and Rockwell’s paintings, which are on view and part of the Museum’s permanent collection. Join members of the Berkshire Music School for a performance of patriotic music from the World War II era. Following the music, the Museum’s Curator of Education Tom Daly will offer historical insight into both Roosevelt’s words and Rockwell’s paintings. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183, Stockbridge, MA. (FREE Members, $$ Non-members)
Saturday, January 16, 5:30pm — ART HISTORY/LIVING HISTORY
Spend “An Evening in the Classroom with Illustrator Harvey Dunn,” as painter/interpreter Dan Howe brings him to life at the Norman Rockwell Museum. As an artist and teacher, Dunn had a big personality and enjoyed sharing his philosophy and the virtues of a life in art. Offered in conjunction with the current exhibition, Masters of the Golden Age: Harvey Dunn and His Students. Refreshments will follow. 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183, Stockbridge, MA. ($)
Wednesday, January 27, 6:30pm — FOOD HISTORY/TEA TASTING/FUNDRAISER
Explore teas of the world with Michael Harney, vice president of Harney & Sons Master Tea Blenders, at the Stockbridge Library Association‘s Speaker Series at the First Congregational Church of Stockbridge. Started in the basement of the historic White Hart Inn in Salisbury, CT, in 1983, Harney & Sons has grown to employ 155 people in its Millerton, NY, headquarters. Michael Harney has been the master tea buyer and blender for the company for more than 25 years, meeting with tea producers in all of the world’s major tea countries. Michael will show you tasting techniques and explain how where and how tea is grown and processed can affect its taste and appearance. 413-298-5501. Jonathan Edwards Room, 4 Main Street, Stockbridge, MA. (<$ SUGGESTED DONATION)
Berkshire Botanical Garden 413-298-3926. 5 West Stockbridge Road.
Chesterwood — 413-298-3579. 4 Williamsville Road
Norman Rockwell Museum – 413-298-4100. 9 Route 183.
The Stockbridge Library, Museum, and Archives – 413-298-5501. 18 Main Street.
Ashintully Gardens. 413-298-3239. Sodem Road.
West Stockbridge Public Library – 413-232-0300 x308. 21 State Line Road.
South Berkshire
Alford | Great Barrington | Housatonic | Monterey | New Marlborough | Sheffield
North Berkshire | Central Berkshire
Support Hilltown Families!
Friday, January 1 —
CITIZEN SCIENCE/ORNITHOLOGY
Participate in the longest-running citizen science bird project in the country by joining a local team for the 116th Christmas Bird Count. In early winter, volunteers count every bird they see or hear during a 24-hour period within a designated 15-mile radius. Beginners are matched with experienced counters to learn and help at the same time. Data from the count, which occurs throughout the Western Hemisphere, are used to monitor bird populations and identify species in decline. This is a rewarding activity for all ages, and you can join a team for whatever period of time you like. Call local coordinator for more information. 413-623-8803. Southern Berkshire County, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 2, 2pm-4pm — INTERGENERATIONAL/CREATIVE FREE PLAY/CIRCUS ARTS
Have you dreamed of flying through the air with the greatest of ease or being part of a human pyramid? You can try these circus skills and more at Berkcirque Circus School of the Berkshires‘ Intergenerational Circus PLAYshop. After a group warm-up game, caregivers and kids will rotate through circus skill stations including balance, juggling, aerial arts, and pyramid building. Children and adults inspire each other and build self-confidence, concentration, trust, and teamwork. For ages 6 and up. Ages 6-10 must be accompanied by an adult caregiver. 413-429-4215. 115 Gas House Lane, Great Barrington, MA. ($$)
Friday, January 8, All Day —WINTER SPORTS
Learn-to-Ski or Learn-to-Snowboard package offered by Ski Butternut as part of the Guinness Book of World Records – World’s Largest Ski and Snowboard Lesson Event. Perfect for homeschooling families! Great Barrington, MA (>$)
Saturday, January 16, 10am-2pm — FARMERS’ MARKET/LOCAL FOOD/COMMERCIAL-FREE HOLIDAY
Shop locally grown and produced foods and gifts, including fruits and vegetables, cheeses, meats, breads, yarn, and more at the Berkshire Grown MLK, Jr. Day Weekend Holiday Farmers’ Market at Monument Valley Middle School. Learn where your food comes from and share your experience at family dinner time. Plus, enjoy live music, lunch fare, and children’s activities. SNAP accepted. 413.528.0041. 313 Monument Valley Road, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, January 17, 3pm — CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT/INDIA/FILM STUDIES
Like Martin Luther King, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi employed nonviolent civil disobedience to bring about social change by inspiring a movement for civil rights and freedom across the world for India.Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center will screen Gandhi (1982) over Martin Luther King weekend as an opportunity to consider how each of us can create change, locally or globally. Directed by Richard Attenborough, this film is the eighth-highest Oscar winning film of all time—claiming eight awards from 11 nominations, including best film. It stars Ben Kingsley, Candice Bergen, John Gielgud, and Martin Sheen. 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street. Great Barrington, MA ($)
Sunday, January 24, 1pm-3pm — OUTDOOR ADVENTURES/SNOWSHOEING
The Berkshire Natural Resources Council is holding a Snow Shoe Clinic for all ages at Housatonic Flats. Come try a great outdoor activity and explore this in-town trail system that travels through field and forest and offers glimpses of the Housatonic River. A group will start out each hour. Bring your own snowshoes or try a pair provided by Berkshire Bike & Board. Pre-registration requested; 24-hour advance reservation required for snowshoes. Cross-country skiers also invited. 413-499-0596. Route 7, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, January 30, 10:30am and 11:30am — FOLKTALE/PUPPET SHOW
The Great Barrington Rudolf Steiner School presents The Snow Maiden at Matrushka Toys and Gifts as part of its Spring Puppet Series. Teachers will use their own handmade, needle-felted puppets to tell the Russian folktale of an old couple whose wish for a child is answered one winter night. For ages 2-6. 413-528-4015. 309 Main Street, Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Berkshire South Regional Community Center — 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road.
Great Barrington Historical Society — South Main Street.
The Guthrie Center — 413-644-9288. 2 Van Deusenville Road.
Great Barrington Riverwalk — Church and River Streets.
Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center — 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street.
Mason Library — 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street.
South Berkshire Kids – 413-464-5095. 444 Old Stockbridge Road.
Sunday, January 31, 3pm — FAMILY THEATER
Pirate stories feed children’s imaginations and help them learn good from bad. Watch one onstage when Nutshell Playhouse presents “Pirates!” a swashbuckling adventure featuring bold buccaneers, a mysterious map with a riddle, cursed treasure, a visit to an island that you can’t see, a pirate ghost, and a magical journey to the bottom of the sea. This seafaring tale features mime, music, masks, and puppets created by Clothespin Puppets. At Berkshire Pulse. 274-854-7674. 420 Park Street, Housatonic, MA. (FREE)
Project Native – 413-274-3433. 342 North Plain Road.
Ramsdell Library – 413-274-3738. 1087 Main Street.
Bidwell House Museum — 413-528-6888. 100 Art School Road.
Cookson State Forest — Hotchkiss Road.
New Marlborough Library — 413-664-0104. 1 Mill River-Great Barrington Road.
Friday, January 22, 5pm-8pm — COMMUNITY MEAL/FUNDRAISER
Red or white, beans or no beans — what’s your preference? Shake off winter’s chill while supporting local students at the Farmington River Elementary PTA‘s Chili Cookoff at the Knox Trail Inn. Sample various chili entries submitted by your neighbors then vote for your favorite. After warming your insides, generate some heat on the dance floor with David Reed & Trio Traumatica. Route 23, Downtown, East Otis, MA. (<$ DONATION)
Otis Library and Museum – 413-269-0109. 48 North Main Road.
Sunday, January 10, 3pm-5pm — NATURE-BASED/ANIMAL STUDIES/SNOWSHOEING
Have you ever chatted with an owl? You may get the chance during the Owl Prowl at Bartholomew’s Cobble. First learn about these nocturnal predators during an owl-y storytime with snack at the visitor center, then venture into the woods to call to them. If you’re lucky, one or more will answer. Dress warmly, and bring snowshoes, if you have them. Snowshoe rentals $5 Members, $7 Non-members. 413-229-8600. 105 Weatogue Road, Sheffield, MA. (<$)
Bushnell-Sage Library – 413-229-7004. 48 Main Street.
Bartholomew’s Cobble – 413-229-8600. 105 Weatogue Road.
Sheffield Historical Society. 413-229-2694. 91 Main St.
