Hilltown Families 
Suggested Events for June 18th-24th, 2016
“Hilltown Families is my link to all events in Western MA, and I am unsure what I would do without all of the eNewsletter and updates. I also found skating, sledding festivals, and swimming locations from Hilltown Families. It is a very valuable resource for my family.” – Susan Wessels (Chester, 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.
Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families… help us help you! Click HERE to find out more.
Summer Camps in Western MA
Nearly 70 summer camps & programs, in and around western MA, to choose from with new camps added every week!
Check out our featured post, 2016 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a comprehensive list of summer camps & programs in the region! Summer opportunities featured range from music, arts & crafts, wilderness adventures, dance, performance art, farming, rock climbing, STEM, pre-college, sports, theater… to good old traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans! — Do you have a summer camp or program you’d like to have included in our comprehensive list? Find out how you can submit your listing HERE.
Bulletin Board
Flexible Toddler Schedules at the Montessori School of Northampton: For summer and the school year, the Montessori School of Northampton provides flexible toddler programs for children ages 2 to 2 years 11 months. Small class size, a Montessori-trained toddler teacher and a beautifully prepared child-centered environment make MSN the perfect setting for a toddler to experience independence while engaging in enriching activities including self-care, singing, creative movement, cooking, and outdoor play. Flexible full and half day school year schedules are available, as well as four two-week summer sessions running from June 27-August 19. For more information, call 413-586-4538 or visit northamptonmontessori.org.
Jun 16, Jul 15 & Aug 19
The Amherst Business District is happy to announce the Amherst Community Band, led by Timothy Anderson (Director of the UMass Minuteman Marching Band) will be performing in its Downtown Beats Summer Concert series. The Free Concerts will be held in Sweetser Park (with the historic fountain) on June 16, July 15, and August 19 from 6:30-8pm. Rain location is the First Congregational Church. Enjoy the stirring sounds of a mini orchestra, complete with brass and string playing popular and classic tunes. Picnic in Sweetser with some famous downtown take out. Simple. Easy. Enjoy!
A pre-school experience that savors childhood. Nature walks by woods and stream, days of music and song, toys made of natural materials, nourishing, shared meals: these are parts of the young child’s daily rhythm at The Hartsbrook School. Led by experienced, nurturing teachers, the early childhood program supports imagination and joyful play. Give your child the foundation for future learning and enjoy a vibrant parent community. The Hartsbrook School has limited openings for children 2.9 to 5 years old. Applications accepted through the end of June. Please call for more information and a tour of the school. 413-586-1908 x115, 193 Bay Road, Hadley.
Smith College faculty member Alexandra Burgess, Ph.D., is recruiting families with children ages 8-12 to participate in a paid psychology study about children’s emotions, thinking styles, and problem solving abilities. Study activities are fun and interactive, including tasks such as solving a variety of puzzles, playing memory games, and writing about a favorite game. All caregiver-child pairs are encouraged to participate, and will earn $40 for their time. The study takes place on the Smith College campus, with free parking provided. Participation is also a great way to teach kids about the process of science! Please contact Dr. Burgess at childperfectionism@gmail.com or in her office at 413-585-3386 to find out more and schedule a time to come into the lab!
ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your summer camp, class, community event, school, open house, audition, homeschool program, workshop, volunteer opportunity, wellness program, local business, program, after school class, or non-profit featured here in the Bulletin Board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and in our weekly eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! Find out more about our advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by emailing us at info@hilltownfamilies.org. Find out more about this targeted marketing opportunity HERE.
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LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
June 18-24, 2016
Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets | Libraries| Berkshire Family Fun | Advertise/Sponsorship | en Español
Events Happening in the Hilltowns
Saturday, June 18, 2016
9-10am – HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW: Tune in on your FM dial, or listen live via streaming audio at www.valleyfreeradio.org. Kb Whirly takes you an fun funky musical journey to where it all began. From dancing like a rooster in the kitchen with Pete Seeger, to celebrating all the Critters with Andrew and Polly. Buckle up and hang on for the ride as we cruise through through folk, blues, funk, pop and hip hop tunes that are sure to get your toes tappin’! 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, June 18, TBA
CRAFTS/SUSTAINABILITY
Learn how to create puppets while supporting a community effort towards sustainability! The First Annual Northampton Interdependence Day Festival will be held on July 2nd 2016 and feature children’s theater and street performances around the theme, “We Love This World.” Prior to the event, on June 18th and 25th, workshops will be held for those interested in making puppets to be used in the performances. Get involved early and watch this new, exciting event unfold in your community. For more information including workshop time and place, contact Beth Fairservis at bethbirth@crocker.com. Location TBA.Saturday, June 18, all day
BIODIVERSITY/ECOLOGY/CITIZEN SCIENCE
Are your kids curious about all of the many different plants and animals that they find while exploring outside? A “bioblitz” is a community event designed to quickly compile information on biodiversity in a relatively small area. The 24-hour long Berkshire Bioblitz will take place from June 18th through June 19th at Mount Greylock. The BioBlitz is an opportunity for biologists, naturalists and environmentalists to work in collaboration with the general public to gather and complete a formal survey of all living species while seeing first-hand the importance of a healthy, active ecosystem in their own community. For more information, visit the website or email berkshirebioblitz@gmail.com. Lanesboro, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, June 18, 8am
COLLABORATIVE CONSUMPTION/TAG SALE
Town wide tag sales are a fantastic way for neighbors to meet while buying or selling items in a collaborative and sustainable way. These social and monetary interactions can also be good practice for kids. You can teach your kids about math and budgeting at the Worthington town wide tag sale. Maps of the sale are available, by donation, at the Worthington Public Library. 413-238-5565. 1 Huntington Road. Worthington, MA. (MARKET/SALE)
Saturday, June 18, 8am-8pm
PLACEMAKING/HABITAT
Since the dawn of agriculture and increasingly settled life, people have made their homes near rivers and other water sources. Land near rivers and waterways tends to be more fertile for growing crops, and traditionally water has been used as a form of transportation. How do rivers and other bodies of water affect culture and lifestyle today? You can explore these topics while simultaneously learning about and enjoying art, music, and other entertainment, at RiverWalk! The day will begin at 8am with a book sale, followed by the opening of shops and galleries at 10am. At 4pm, the family-friendly “Frog & Flower Stroll” around the Deerfield river will begin at Mallei Park in Buckland and culminate with a river dance. For more information, visit the Greater Shelburne Falls Area website. Shelburne Falls, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, June 18, 9am-1pm
ART STUDIES/WATERCOLOR PAINTING
Watercolor is an ancient art form which has existed since Egyptian times. Watercolor had a resurgence during the European Renaissance and has been relatively popular ever since. You can learn watercolor painting techniques from teacher Sylvia Foster in this workshop at the Otis Town Hall. Class size is limited. To register call 772-785-6547. 1 North Main Road. Otis, MA. ($)Saturday, June 18, 9:30am-3:30pm
LOCAL HISTORY/AGRICULTURE
The Porter-Phelps-Huntington Museum, an historic house museum dating to 1752 in Hadley, showcases life in rural New England over three centuries. Through the words, spaces and possessions of the women and men who lived there, the museum portrays the activities of a prosperous and productive 18th-century farmstead. On June 18th, the museum opens its doors for free to residents of Amherst. Tours will take place every half hour. 413-584-4699.130 River Drive. Hadley, MA. (FREE for Amherst residents. <$ for non residents)Saturday, June 18, 9:30am-5pm
JUNETEENTH/HISTORY
“Freedom Week” at Old Sturbridge Village offers historical programs to celebrate Juneteenth. This holiday commemorates the ending of slavery in the United states and the day on which Texas slaves learned of the Emancipation Proclamation. Daily performances will highlight the experience of American slaves, particularly local figures. Storyteller Tammy Denease Richardson will portray Elizabeth “Mum Bett” Freeman, a woman who lived in the Berkshires and became the first black enslaved person to gain her freedom in a court of law based on the principle of general equality. Denease will also play Belinda Royall, a woman who was sold into slavery to the Royall Family and later taken to Medford, Massachusetts.Belinda petitioned the government for reparations. Andre Keitt will present Keys to the Keepers, a presentation about the ways in which slaves preserved their African culture through storytelling and folklore. On June 18th and 19th only, The Ray of Hope Project musicians and actors will perform participatory music programs which incorporate history and primary source readings. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. (Adults $$. 17 and under $. 2 and under FREE)Saturday, June 18, 10am
FAMILY FILM
What does a script with no dialogue look like? Script writers think about and indicate a lot more than just conversations between characters, as evidenced by the 2015 movie Shaun the Sheep (rated PG), which contains no dialogue. This family friendly film can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages, with no complex conversations to follow, but a lot of visual humor and impressive animation. You can screen this film with your family at this one time showing, at Amherst Cinema. 413- 253-2547. 28 Amity Street. Amherst, MA. (<$)Saturday, June 18, 10am-11:30am
GENEALOGY
Saturday, June 18, 10am-1pm
ECOLOGY/HABITAT
Discover the biodiversity of the Wild Scenic Westfield River! Naturalist Ed Neumuth will lead participants around the river on this “Birds, Beasts, and Bees” guided hike. Find out about species which thrive at the West branch of the Westfield River, and how they impact one another as well as humans. For all the event details, register with Meredyth Babcock, 413-623-2070. Huntington, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, June 18, 10am-2pm
HEALTH
Holistic models of health encourage people to critically examine all aspects of their lives including physical and emotional issues. Some holistic models of health even stress the importance of a sense of community to individual well-being. Health fairs are a great way to examine your wellness while getting a healthy dose of community involvement! The Hatfield Public Schools health fair will offer vision screening, blood pressure screening, medication safety, heat-related illness prevention, bicycle and bus safety, and physical therapist functional movement analysis to participants of all ages. At the same time, the health fair will feature a strawberry festival with fun activities for kids. Call 413-247-5010 with any questions. Hatfield Elementary School. 33 Main Street. Hatfield, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 18, 10am-2pm
FARMERS’ MARKET
Farmers’ markets offer a consistent, simple way for local farmers and food producers to connect with the community. These markets provide locally grown items, teaching buyers about their habit through seasonal variation in what is available. This Easthampton farmers’ and makers’ market will also offer locally made items, bringing artists and crafters into the mix. See what you can find, every Saturday from 10am-2pm through September 24th. For more information, visit the Easthampton Farmers’ and Makers’ Market website. 50 Payson Avenue. Easthampton, MA. (MARKET/SALE)
Saturday, June 18, 10am-3pm
LITERACY/FITNESS
This year, many Massachusetts libraries are providing summer reading programs with an Olympics theme. The Whately Library will kick off their summer reading program with fitness activities including archery, basketball, fencing and more. Summer reading participants will get a reading log where they can record their books and earn prizes all summer long! 413-665-2170. 202 Chestnut Plain Road. Whately, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 18, 10am-5pm
MAKERSPACE
Makerspaces, which have been popping up in museums, schools, and community centers, are a space for people with various interests to collaborate in innovative ways. These spaces do not limit to a particular discipline, and in fact provide the chance to combine science, technology, engineering, art, and math (a combination widely known as STEAM) in order to produce something new. You and your family can get creative and bring your special knowledge and abilities to the table at Makers’ Day! Included with regular museum admission at the Berkshire Museum. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (Adult $. Under 18 <$. 3 and under FREE)Saturday, June 18, 10am-5pm
LIVING HISTORY
August 2016 is the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service. The Springfield Armory National Historic Site is currently exhibiting an art installation in honor of the National Park Service. You can come see this exhibition and learn about American war history on Armory Day. A full day of events will include military drills with living history reenactors, primary source documents such as WWI videos and letters, and much more. Visit the Springfield Armory National Historic Site website for a full schedule of events.413-734-8551. One Armory Square. Springfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, June 18, 10:30am
FAMILY THEATER/ENTOMOLOGY
Saturday, June 18, 10:30am
MAKERSPACE/PHYSICS
Saturday, June 18, 11am
ENTOMOLOGY/BEEKEEPING
Beekeeping is an educational hobby which can also be a vital part of a sustainable living lifestyle. Just Roots is holding a summer-long beekeeping workshop with Daniel Berry. You can drop by one session, or attend them all on June 18, July 16, August 20 and September 17. This workshop has a pay-what-you-can policy, with the goal of achieving a $10 donation on average, per person, at each workshop. Bee suits will be provided. Register at the Just Roots website. 413-325-8969. Just Roots Farm. 34 Glenbrook Drive, Greenfield, MA. ($)Saturday, June 18, 11am-1pm
FUNDRAISING/INTERGENERATIONAL
Do your children enjoy watching sports and rooting for their favorite team? The Duck Derby at the Family Center will be a fun and exciting fundraiser. Hundreds of rubber ducks will race down the river behind Noel Field. Parents can adopt ducks at five dollars each and root for their adopted ducks! Owners of the winning ducks will receive cash prizes. Call 413-664-4821 to get involved. 210 State Street. North Adams, MA. (FUNDRAISER)
Saturday, June 18, 11am-3pm
FAMILY MUSIC/ART STUDIES
Families with an interest in animals, art, or music, will find entertainment at the opening reception for “Here Comes the Sun” at MASS MoCA. This exhibit features animal sculptures made out of many different materials such as leather sneakers or an army helmet. Federico Uribe’s artwork sheds light on the ways in which humans use animals to make products. Instead, he uses products to make animals. After exploring his artwork, you can enjoy family-friendly music performed at 2pm by Grammy-winning folk and blues musician, Dan Zanes. The “Here Comes the Sun” reception is free. Tickets for Dan Zanes can be purchased on the MASS MoCA website. 413-662-2111. 1040 Mass MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. (Adult tickets purchased on the day of the event $$. Adult advance tickets and under 16 tickets $. Kids 5 and under FREE)Saturday, June 18, 11am-3pm
NEW ENGLAND HISTORY
Storrowton Village Museum, located in West Springfield at the Big E, offers hands-on, historical learning through workshops. The museum also offers tours of historic 18th and 19th century buildings including the meetinghouse, schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, Eddy Law Office, John Potter Mansion, and Gilbert Farmstead. Tours and activities provide the opportunity for interactive learning about history, the closes you will get to stepping back in time. On June 18th, opening day for the season, free activities will include broom making, open hearth cooking, and blacksmithing demonstrations.Visitors can also learn about herbal folklore and remedies. 413-205-5051. 1305 Memorial Avenue. West Springfield, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 18, 11:30am
FAMILY MUSIC/FABLES
Fairy tales such as Hansel and Gretel, which was told through oral storytelling before its publication in 1812, continue to capture the imagination of children after more than two centuries. Even when they are not read in their original format, imitations and adaptations of these tales persist. Ami and Tami is a modern adaptation of Hansel and Gretel which aims to depict modern life for teenagers and their parents. You can watch this performance with the cost of regular museum admission at the Berkshire Museum. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (Adult $. Under 18 <$. 3 and under FREE)Saturday, June 18, 12pm-10pm
PLACEMAKING/SKATEBOARDING
Skateboarding is a daring sport which encourages balance, strength, coordination, and even creativity as skateboarders try to create routines which showcase their best tricks. For nearly two decades, young people of the Montague area have been fighting for the creation of a permanent skate park. It’s finally here! Come to the opening celebration, with a ribbon cutting at 1pm. There will be a Skateboarding Jam and Best Tricks Contest from 2-4pm. Sign up before 2pm. 56 First Street. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 18, 12pm-10pm
PLACEMAKING/CULINARY ARTS
The Taste of Amherst festival is an opportunity to check out and sample food from tons of restaurants. Taking place on the common, this gathering also supports placemaking in the Amherst community. It is more than just an opportunity to eat food as visitors can meet and converse with chefs, and witness demonstrations. From 1pm-4pm on Saturday, June 18th there will be chef demonstrations including a knife skills presentation and a demonstration on how to make gnocchi. Amherst Town Common. Amherst, MA. (MARKET/SALE)Saturday, June 18, 1pm-3pm
CULTURE STUDIES/CULINARY ARTS
Saturday, June 18, 1pm-5pm
FITNESS/LITERACY
In “bubble soccer,” each player wears a protective, inflatable bubble which transforms the game, allowing for bouncing, rolling, bumping and flipping. The Jones Library, Sunderland Public Library, and Hatfield Public Library invite teens ages 14 to 19 to sign up for a game of library vs. library bubble soccer. Refreshments will be provided and a book giveaway will take place. Please register at the Jones Library (413-259-3091) The Hatfield Public Library (413-247-9097) or the Sunderland Public Library (413-665-2642). The tournament will take place at the Sunderland Public Library. 20 School Street. Sunderland, MA. (FREE)Saturday, June 18, 4pm
PALEONTOLOGY
Saturday, June 18, 6pm
COMMUNITY MEAL/LAWN CONCERT
Do you enjoy swing music? You and your family can dance to free, live music at the annual Sup and Swing party in Otis. Bring a picnic meal to enjoy as you listen to music by the Wanda Houston Band. For more information, visit the Otis Cultural Council website. Izaak Walton Field. Route 8. Otis, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, June 18, 7pm
FILM STUDIES/NUTRITIONAL ANTHROPOLOGY
Don’t judge a restaurant by its appearance. In this 2015 documentary, City of Gold (rated R), Pulitzer Prize-winning food critic Jonathan Gold looks for little known eateries in Los Angeles, from food trucks to strip malls, aiming to draw attention to them through his writing. Gold explains to audiences how an exploration of local food reveals the diversity of people and cultures in a given city.This documentary delves into the question of how food criticism can tell stories and help communities thrive. You can screen this film on June 17th, 18th, 19th, and 20th at the Berkshire Museum. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (>$)Saturday, June 18, 7pm-10pm
INTERGENERATIONAL SQUARE DANCE
Saturday, June 18, 7:30pm
MUSIC STUDIES/GYPSY JAZZ
Django Reinhardt is famous for being the forefather of gypsy jazz, and is regarded as one of the best guitarists of all time. Django in June brings together students of this genre from all over North America and beyond, to perform at the Academy of Music Theatre. Anyone who likes jazz guitar, or wants to branch out in their knowledge of musical genres, should attend this performance. 413-584-9032. 274 Main Street. Northampton, MA. ($$)Saturday, June 18, 7:30pm
CONTEMPORARY DRAMA/MILITARY
This timely and humorous new drama, Ugly Lies the Bone, follows the story of Jess, a combat veteran who returns home to Florida after three tours in Afghanistan. Bearing deep physical and emotional scars, Jess embarks on a journey of healing through innovative, experimental video game therapy that offers an escape from her excruciating pain. But can virtual reality help Jess come to terms with the altered reality of her hometown, relationships, and dreams? Winner of the Woodward/Newman Award and the Laurents/Hatcher Citation of Excellence, this play boldly explores the concept of reality with a perspective that’s both humorous and profoundly moving. Performances will be held in the Elayne P. Bernstein Theatre at Shakespeare & Co. 413-637-3353. 70 Kemble Street. Lenox, MA. ($$)Saturday, June 18, 8pm
WORLD PREMIERE/CONTEMPORARY THEATER
Winner of the prestigious 2016 Laurents/Hatcher Foundation Award for Best Play, American Son examines our nation’s racial divide as seen through the eyes of an estranged biracial couple. Over the course of a tense night, the couple’s disparate backgrounds collide as they confront an unexpected crisis involving the police and their missing 18-year old son. This new work is a timely and important play on race in present-day America. Performed on the Boyd-Quinson Mainstage at the Barrington Stage Company. 413-236-8888. 30 Union Street, Pittsfield, MA ($$)
Sunday, June 19, 2016
Sunday, June 19, 8:30am
FATHER’S DAY
Celebrate Father’s Day by staying fit and healthy with your family! The Springfield Jewish Community Center will be hosting kids’ fun runs and healthy family walks. At 8:30am, 10K & 5K Relays will begin, followed by a kids’ one mile Fun Run & Family Health Walk at 10am. Register on the Springfield Jewish Community Center website for the 10k/Relay ($25) or the fun run/walk ($18). There will be prizes! 413-739-4715. 1160 Dickinson Street. Springfield, MA. ($ – $$)Sunday, June 19, 9:30am-5pm
JUNETEENTH/HISTORY
“Freedom Week” at Old Sturbridge Village offers historical programs to celebrate Juneteenth. This holiday commemorates the ending of slavery in the United states and the day on which Texas slaves learned of the Emancipation Proclamation. Daily performances will highlight the experience of American slaves, particularly local figures. Storyteller Tammy Denease Richardson will portray Elizabeth “Mum Bett” Freeman, a woman who lived in the Berkshires and became the first black enslaved person to gain her freedom in a court of law based on the principle of general equality. Denease will also play Belinda Royall, a woman who was sold into slavery to the Royall Family and later taken to Medford, Massachusetts.Belinda petitioned the government for reparations. Andre Keitt will present Keys to the Keepers, a presentation about the ways in which slaves preserved their African culture through storytelling and folklore. On June 18th and 19th only, The Ray of Hope Project musicians and actors will perform participatory music programs which incorporate history and primary source readings. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road. Sturbridge, MA. (Adults $$. 17 and under $. 2 and under FREE)Sunday, June 19, 9am-5pm
STRAWBERRY FEST/FATHER’S DAY
Sunday, June 19, 10am
FITNESS/INTERGENERATIONAL
Do you love to run? Participate in this short road race of just one mile, and help fundraise for the Northampton High School Athletic Booster Club. People of all ages and abilities are highly encouraged to participate. The road races will begin with a kids’ one mile race at 10am, followed by women’s and men’s heats. Register at The Northampton Mile website to participate in the run. Those who do not wish to participate can still donate and cheer on participants at Northampton High School. 380 Elm Street. Northampton, MA. (FUNDRAISER)
Sunday, June 19, 11am-4pm
FATHER’S DAY
In addition to the typical learning opportunities at Hancock Shaker Village, the village will have special programming for Father’s Day. Have fun with a father figure and enjoy a guided hike to the old village sawmill and reservoir at 11am. For an additional $10 per person, participants can also attend the Attics and Basements Tour at 2pm and delve into typically unseen areas of the village! 413-443-0188. 1843 West Housatonic Street. Pittsfield MA. (Adults $. 13 to 17 <$. 12 and under FREE)Sunday, June 19, 11am-4pm
FATHER’S DAY
A property of The Trustees of Reservations, the Choate family summer estate “Naumkeag” is distinguished by beautifully landscaped grounds originally designed by Nathan Barrett. With its gracious house, magnificent gardens, and panoramic views, Naumkeag is a quintessential country estate of the Gilded Age. You and your dad can celebrate Father’s Day with historical learning at Naumkeag. One day only, fathers get in free! 413-298-3239 x3008. 5 Prospect Hill. Stockbridge, MA. (Non member $. Member FREE. Fathers FREE)Sunday, June 19, 12pm-4pm
FATHER’S DAY
Fathers and grandfathers will be treated to a free ride at the Holyoke Merry Go Round on Father’s Day. Families can celebrate the important role of their fathers by making a happy memory together. Bring a picnic to enjoy in Holyoke Heritage State Park! 413-538-9838. 221 Appleton Street. Holyoke, MA. (<$. FREE for fathers and grandfathers)Sunday, June 19, 12pm-4pm
PLACEMAKING/CULINARY ARTS
The Taste of Amherst festival is an opportunity to check out and sample food from tons of restaurants. Taking place on the common, this gathering also supports placemaking in the Amherst community. It is more than just an opportunity to eat food as visitors can meet and converse with chefs, and witness demonstrations. On Sunday, June 19, demonstrations will take place from 12:30pm-4pm covering topics such as ice cream and cows. Amherst Town Common. Amherst, MA. (MARKET/SALE)Sunday, June 19, 1pm
ART STUDIES/HISTORY
Author and illustrator Robert McCloskey is best known for his 1942 picture book, Make Way for Ducklings. McCloskey actually purchased ducks, which lived in his studio, so he could study their appearance and movements in order to render them realistically in his illustrations. This is a testament to his artistic dedication and precision. Curator Nick Clark will be providing tours of the new exhibition, “The Art of Robert McCloskey,” at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. See examples of McCloskey’s iconic images and learn about his life. This program is free with museum admission. Following the tour, at 2pm, there will be a reading of Ryan T. Higgins’ book, Mother Bruce. Stick around for this storytime. 413-658-1100. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. (<$)Sunday, June 19, 1:30pm
CARILLON
A carillon is a musical instrument involving at least twenty-three bells, typically played by striking a keyboard. Automated music can also be played on certain carillons, similar to a player piano. You can hear these bells played by carilloneur Norma Hopper in Stanley Park. Concerts will take place on Sundays throughout Spring and Summer: June 19, July 17, August 21. For more information, call 413-568-9312 ext 100. 400 Western Avenue. Westfield, MA. (FREE)Sunday, June 19, 3pm-5pm
FATHER’S DAY
Sunday, June 19, 4pm
ORNITHOLOGY
Sunday, June 19, 4pm
JUNETEENTH/HISTORY
The day upon which Texas slaves learned of the Emancipation Proclamation is celebrated today as Juneteenth. Originally celebrated only in Texas, the day has served as a commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States since 1865. Across the country, Juneteenth is celebrated in order to honor the struggles of those who endured slavery, and to remind us of the ways in which our country’s history has affected (and continues to affect) our current society. Learn more about this historic day through storytelling, and celebrate with song at Old Deerfield’s Brick Church. 413-628-0262. 77 Old Main Street. Deerfield, MA. ($)Sunday, June 19, 4pm-7pm
JUNETEENTH/HISTORY
In a time of globalization and instantaneous information spreading, it can be difficult to imagine news traveling slowly. Juneteenth, on June 19th, commemorates the ending of slavery in the United states and the day on which Texas slaves learned of the Emancipation Proclamation. Union General Gordon Granger read the news aloud at Galveston Island. Juneteenth is a time to honor those who endured slavery, and reflect on the ways in which our society continues to be shaped by this history. Arise for Social Justice invites you to a Juneteenth celebration at Ruth Elizabeth Park. There will be food, activities, and entertainment for the whole family. 413-734-4948. Hancock Street and Hickory Street. Springfield, MA. (FREE)Sunday, June 19, 7pm
FILM STUDIES/NUTRITIONAL ANTHROPOLOGY
Don’t judge a restaurant by its appearance. In this 2015 documentary, City of Gold (rated R), Pulitzer Prize-winning food critic Jonathan Gold looks for little known eateries in Los Angeles, from food trucks to strip malls, aiming to draw attention to them through his writing. Gold explains to audiences how an exploration of local food reveals the diversity of people and cultures in a given city.This documentary delves into the question of how food criticism can tell stories and help communities thrive. You can screen this film on June 17th, 18th, 19th, and 20th at the Berkshire Museum. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (>$)
Monday, June 20, 2016
Monday, June 20, 1:30pm and 7pm
FILM STUDIES/NUTRITIONAL ANTHROPOLOGY
Don’t judge a restaurant by its appearance. In this 2015 documentary, City of Gold (rated R), Pulitzer Prize-winning food critic Jonathan Gold looks for little known eateries in Los Angeles, from food trucks to strip malls, aiming to draw attention to them through his writing. Gold explains to audiences how an exploration of local food reveals the diversity of people and cultures in a given city.This documentary delves into the question of how food criticism can tell stories and help communities thrive. You can screen this film on June 17th, 18th, 19th, and 20th at the Berkshire Museum. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (>$)Monday, June 20, 2pm-8pm
LITERACY/LIFELONG LEARNING
Even for book lovers with never-ending lists of books to read, it can be difficult to find the time and motivation to read. The Westhampton Public Library’s Adult Summer Reading program adds a new level of motivation and fun to an already enjoyable and healthy hobby. Pick up a bingo card at the library, available beginning on June 20th, and enter a raffle for prizes! Get a friend to participate with you for twice as much fun and potential book discussions. 413-527-5386. 1 North Road. Westhampton, MA. (FREE)
Monday, June 20, 5pm
LITERACY/PLAY
The Sunderland Public Library will kick off their Teen Summer Reading program with Messy Twister and Water Balloons! Teens can meet others in the area who will be participating in the summer reading program and have a great time playing messy games. Please sign up in advance and wear clothing which can get stained. For younger kids who want to participate in summer reading, there will be a kick off event at 6pm featuring The Bubble Man. His comedic and musical performance will captivate kids with lots of bubbles! 413-665-2642. 20 School Street. Sunderland, MA. (FREE)
Monday, June 20, 6:30pm
LITERACY/LIFELONG LEARNING
Summer reading programs in public libraries encourage early literacy in the young, and lifelong learning in adults. The Adult Summer Reading program at the Agawam Public Library will encourage adult readers to discuss books together and attend programs which relate literacy to other topics. The kickoff event will feature a meet and greet with local authors, including Susan Buffam, Linda Cardillo, Tamara Fricke, Gerald McFarland, Bob McMaster, Matt Norris, Gail Olmstead, Tim Parker, Marcy Robitaille, VC Russell, and Jacqueline Sheehan. 413-789-1550. 750 Cooper Street. Agawam, MA. (FREE)Monday, June 20, 6pm-9pm
ART STUDIES/SUMMER SOLSTICE
Kick off summer 2016 with a celebration of art and movement at the Clark Art Institute. At special after-hours admission to the galleries, you can see the exhibition currently on view, “Splendor, Myth, and Vision: Nudes from the Prado.” Summer solstice celebration activities will include yoga sessions and drum circles. This event is open to all ages. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. (Non members $. Members FREE)
ONGOING FOR MONDAY
Our summer list of ongoing events is being updated and will return next week. If you would like to submit a free ongoing event to be included in this list, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org.
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Tuesday, June 21, 9:30am-11am
INTERGENERATIONAL HORTICULTURE
Tuesday, June 21, 12pm
COMMUNITY MEAL/INTERGENERATIONAL
Tuesday, June 21, 1:30pm-3pm
GENEALOGY
Studying your own genealogy, or the family tree of someone else, can teach you extensive research techniques. Genealogy research can require investigation into public records as well as utilizing people as informational resources. The Forbes Library Genealogy Lab is the perfect workshop for getting started. Staff and volunteers will be available for questions or assistance with a library database such as Ancestry, Heritage Quest, American Ancestors or archival newspapers.413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)Tuesday, June 21, 4pm
LOCAL HISTORY/ARCHITECTURE
Joseph McArthur Vance was an architect who created over 250 buildings, including homes, hotels, schools, churches, and theaters, in the Berkshires and beyond. Vance is most famously known for the Colonial Theater, although this building was only partly his creation. Find out how this architect’s vision shaped towns in the Berkshires by attending this lecture at Ventfort Hall. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. ($$)Tuesday, June 21, 6:30pm-8pm
LIVING HISTORY/POETRY
Walt Whitman is one of the most famous American poets, whose work Leaves of Grass is still widely read and appreciated. Come to the Storrs Library to see Whitman come to life through the actor Stephen Collins. Learn about his life and work, and how they influenced each other. Please call to register. 413-565-4181. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)Tuesday, June 21, 7pm
WORLD PREMIERE/CONTEMPORARY THEATER
Winner of the prestigious 2016 Laurents/Hatcher Foundation Award for Best Play, American Son examines our nation’s racial divide as seen through the eyes of an estranged biracial couple. Over the course of a tense night, the couple’s disparate backgrounds collide as they confront an unexpected crisis involving the police and their missing 18-year-old son. This new work is a timely and important play on race in present-day America. Performed on the Boyd-Quinson Mainstage at the Barrington Stage Company. 413-236-8888. 30 Union Street. Pittsfield, MA ($$)
ONGOING FOR TUESDAY
Our summer list of ongoing events is being updated and will return next week. If you would like to submit a free ongoing event to be included in this list, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org.
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Wednesday, June 22, 8am
YOGA
There are many reasons to try yoga, from a desire to build strength and flexibility, to the goal of pain regulation, to connecting with another culture, to the possibility of cultivating a mindfulness practice. Whatever your reason for enjoying yoga or wanting to try it for the first time, you can come to a group session of Yoga on the Lawn at the Westfield Athenaeum. The rain location will be the Lang Auditorium, inside the library. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street. Westfield, MA. (FREE)Wednesday, June 22, 9:30am-11am
PARENTING/PSYCHOLOGY
What makes parenting so challenging? For one thing, people are complicated! Understanding the emotions of children, whether those children are babies or teenagers, requires empathy and emotional intelligence. Every human being is unique, and a parenting strategy which works on one child could backfire on another. That’s why it’s a good thing to have the support and understanding of other parents, as well as tons of behavioral strategies to try. This four part “Positive Solutions” workshop at the Northampton Parents Center will explore techniques for helping children handle their emotions, follow directions, and communicate effectively. Sessions will take place on June 8, 15, 22 ,and 29. Childcare will be available during the workshop. To register or ask questions, please call 413-587-1471 or email bblack@northampton-k12.us. 297 Main Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)Wednesday, June 22, 2pm-4pm
SERVICE-BASED LEARNING/FOOD SECURITY
Kick off this summer with your family by giving back to your community. You are invited to participate in this Hilltown Families Family Volunteer Day with The Food Bank of Western MA. Volunteering together teaches children positive values like kindness, empathy, and tolerance, and opens up channels of communication between parent and child. Engaging children in community service can increase their participation as future volunteers, helping to create more resilient and sustainable communities. There will be a number of educational and hands-on activities for children and their caregivers at this event. Register online. This volunteer day will take place at Mountain View Farm. 393 East Street. Easthampton, MA (VOLUNTEER)
Wednesday, June 22, 3pm-6pm
INTERGENERATIONAL/OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Wednesday, June 22, 6pm
INTERGENERATIONAL DANCE STUDIES
Wednesday, June 22, 6pm
MUSIC STUDIES
The Greenfield Public Library will kick off their summer reading program with an all ages, multi-disciplinary learning experience. Author, educator, and drummer Craig Harris will lead a group session of music making and guided movement. There will be opportunities for the whole family to dance, listen, and play at the “Ready, Steady, Read: Rhythmic Moves” program. Get excited for a summer full of reading and learning. 413-772-1544. 402 Main Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)Wednesday, June 22, 6:30pm
LITERACY/DANCE
Many of the pioneer valley’s library summer reading programs will offer learning opportunities which span topics and skills far beyond just literacy. This Adult Summer Reading program kick off at the Storrs Library will feature an all ages square dance! Begin your summer full of reading and learn a new dance with friends and family. 413-565-4181. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)Wednesday, June 22, 6:30pm
ORNITHOLOGY
Wednesday, June 22, 6:30pm
MUSIC STUDIES/FOLK
People write music for many different reasons. Writing music can be a cathartic experience and a way of expressing political and cultural experiences or beliefs. Afro-Andean Fusion group, Viva Quetzal, has members from all over New England as well as Latin America, producing a unique sound and a fascinating blend of cultures. You can hear them perform as part of Wednesday Folk Traditions at the Porter-Phelps-Huntington Museum. Come to the museum every Wednesday through July 20th to hear a range of folk music. Picnickers are welcome on the museum grounds at 5:00 pm. 413-584-4699. 130 River Drive. Hadley MA. ($. 16 and under <$)
Wednesday, June 22, 6:30-8pm
BEGINNER UKULELE
Come learn to play this convenient, portable string instrument in a supportive environment with other beginners. More experienced ukulele players are also welcome, however, to come join in on the fun at the Storrs Library. Please bring a ukulele if you own one. Loaner ukuleles will be available on a first-come first-served basis. With only four strings, the ukulele is easier to learn than the guitar and can be a great introduction to learning chord progressions. 413-565-4181. 693 Longmeadow Street. Longmeadow, MA. (FREE)
ONGOING FOR WEDNESDAY
Our summer list of ongoing events is being updated and will return next week. If you would like to submit a free ongoing event to be included in this list, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org.
Thursday, June 23, 2016
Thursday, June 23, 10am
PHYSICS/FREE PLAY
You don’t have to talk your children into playing with bubbles. Most people find this to be an immensely fun activity. What’s more, you can use your children’s enjoyment of bubbles as an entry point for talking about the math of measuring bubble solutions or the physics of a substance which involves air and liquid. Playing with bubbles can be a sensory exploration as well as a fine or large motor experience. This “bubbleology” session at the West Springfield Public Library will educate participants ages 4 and up about the fascinating science of bubbles. 413-736-4561. 200 Park Street. West Springfield, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, June 23, 5pm-8pm
COMMUNITY MEAL
Thursday, June 23, 6pm
INTERGENERATIONAL DANCE STUDIES
Thursday, June 23, 6pm-8pm
LAWN CONCERT/PLACEMAKING
Bring a lawn chair, or set up a picnic with friends and family at this Co Op Concert in Greenfield. You can also explore the gardens, and children will be able to play on the train structure in the children’s area. This concert will feature Katie Clarke, Austin & Elliott, and Sue Kranz & Ben Tousley. Open concerts like this one are a great place to meet local musicians and form new community connections. Energy Park. 50 Miles Street. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)Thursday, June 23, 6:30pm-8pm
LAWN CONCERT/PLACEMAKING
Lawn concerts bring people together and strengthen a sense of community. They do so even more effectively when featuring local musicians and musical groups. The Florence Community Band is a unique organization which helps foster a love of music in local audiences, as well as providing the opportunity for lifelong learning among their 75 members! The Florence Community Band will kick off the Music on the Porch Series which will take place at the Florence Civic Center on Thursdays from June 23 and through September 1. Rain location: Florence VFW. 90 Park Street. Florence, MA. (FREE)Thursday, June 23, 7pm
ART/FUNDRAISER
The Maker’s Mill in North Adams is a space for inclusive and collaborative learning and creating. You can support this community resource at a fundraising event full of dancing, food, auctions and art at The Elks Club. This auction will include local and locally connected artwork. Support local artwork and get inspired. 100 Eagle Street. North Adams, MA. (FUNDRAISER)Thursday, June 23, 8pm
WORLD PREMIERE/CONTEMPORARY THEATER
Winner of the prestigious 2016 Laurents/Hatcher Foundation Award for Best Play, American Son examines our nation’s racial divide as seen through the eyes of an estranged biracial couple. Over the course of a tense night, the couple’s disparate backgrounds collide as they confront an unexpected crisis involving the police and their missing 18-year-old son. This new work is a timely and important play on race in present-day America. Performed on the Boyd-Quinson Mainstage at the Barrington Stage Company. 413-236-8888. 30 Union Street. Pittsfield, MA ($$)
ONGOING FOR THURSDAY (To add your free ongoing event/activity here, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org)
Our summer list of ongoing events is being updated and will return next week. If you would like to submit a free ongoing event to be included in this list, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org.
Friday, June 24, 2016
Friday, June 24, all day,
MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Museums are often an entertaining and educational place for both children and adults, and can provide learning opportunities across many subjects including STEM topics, history, and art. As part of the philanthropic organization Highland Street Foundation’s efforts to encourage education to families, many museum and performance locations will be open to the public free of charge on Friday, June 24, a “Free Fun Friday!” This is your chance to visit the Clark Art Institute, MASS MoCA, Tanglewood, Children’s Museum at Holyoke, The Mount and the International Volleyball Hall of Fame. Check out their websites for more information. Western MA. (FREE)Friday, June 24, 9am-5pm
NEW ENGLAND HISTORY
The Pioneer Valley may be some distance from the Atlantic, but the Ocean has had an enormous influence on the history of Massachusetts and New England. Join Historic Deerfield for a three-day conference of nineteen lectures on the maritime history of New England and adjacent areas of New York and Canada from the mid-eighteenth to the early twentieth century. The seminar is designed for educators, historians, collectors, independent scholars, librarians, preservationists, and museum curators, as well as students and the general public. Coffee and doughnuts will be served each morning. Housing is available at group rates at local hotels. Deerfield Community Center. 16 Memorial Street. Deerfield, MA. ($$$)Friday, June 24, 10am-3pm
LITERATURE/HISTORY
Edith Wharton was an extremely prolific and respected author, writing fifteen novels, seven novellas, and eighty-five short stories, poetry and more. She was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature three times, in 1927, 1928 and 1930. You can learn about her legacy as you explore her magnificent home at The Mount. At this 8th annual Free Fun Friday program you are invited to explore the gardens, bring a picnic, and listen to hourly talks and storytelling, all free of charge. 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA. (FREE)Friday, June 24, 10am-10pm
SWIMMING/PLACEMAKING
Greenfield is hosting a full day of Star Wars themed activities which also encourage fitness and placemaking! From 10am to 10pm, the Green River Swimming Area will have arts and crafts tables, a costume contest, and games. Then at 8pm, a movie in the park gathering will play the 2015 film Star Wars: The Force Awakens (PG-13). 413-772-1553. Nash Mill Road. Greenfield, MA. (FREE)Friday, June 24, 10:30am
LITERACY
Participating in a summer reading program at your local library is something you can do as an entire family, setting positive examples for your children and discussing books. The Gaylord Memorial Library. summer reading kickoff celebration will feature family music and storytelling by Mary Jo Maichack. Read books this summer and you could earn raffle tickets for prizes! 413-538-5047. 47 College Street. South Hadley, MA. (FREE)Friday, June 24, 2pm-4pm
CRAFTS/LITERACY
Outside of school in the summer months, there is a risk for children to fall behind in their academic and learning. The Forbes Library will be offering programs all summer long to support children’s literacy and learning. This “crafternoon” program will provide youth participants with tote bags to decorate. They can meet other kids, and use the bags they decorate to take home their summer reading books! 413-587-1011. 20 West Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)Friday, June 24, 6pm
BUBBLE SOCCER
Friday, June 24, 6pm
INTERGENERATIONAL DANCE STUDIES
Friday, June 24, 7pm
LGBT/MUSIC STUDIES
Musicians and singers, with their fame and their powerful position in front of the microphone, have the power to positively influence culture through their lyrics. This cabaret performance at Wistariahurst will feature songs throughout history which spoke of gay experiences and experiences of those with non conforming gender identities. This performance with feature music from Vaudeville, the Harlem Renaissance, Tin Pan Alley, the Weimar Republic, and more. 413-322-5660. 238 Cabot Street. Holyoke, MA. ($)
Friday, June 24, 7pm
LOCAL HISTORY/ART STUDIES
in the Smith Art Museum, depicts his Buckland home, which was built with his brother in 1876 and is still standing on Bray Road. Join Polly Anderson of Buckland for an illustrated talk about this local artist who walked the streets of Shelburne Falls as it was being built, saw Buckland burn in The Great Fire of 1876, tried his hand at businesses with his inventions, and dealt in his own way, with sorrow. A pie social follows the program. Buckland Public Hal., 15 Upper Street. Buckland, MA. (<$)Friday, June 24, 7:30pm-8:30pm
MUSIC STUDIES/FILM STUDIES
With the rise of music websites and applications such as Spotify, the future of recorded music as a business is currently in flux. The new documentary film, Behind a Good Song, explores this issue from a local standpoint, relaying the experience of Northampton-based recording studio, Signature Sounds, and their music venue The Parlor Room. Learn about how changes in technology have affected a local business, and discover local bands by attending this screening. The Parlor Room. 413-923-2800. 32 Masonic Street. Northampton, MA. (FREE)
ONGOING FOR FRIDAY
Our summer list of ongoing events is being updated and will return next week. If you would like to submit a free ongoing event to be included in this list, email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org.
Hilltown Families’ list of Weekly Suggested Events is supported in part by a grant from the Agawam, Belchertown, Buckland, Chicopee, Colrain, Cummington, Deerfield, Goshen, Hadley, Heath, New Salem, Plainfield, Shelburne, Southampton, Sunderland, Westhampton and Worthington Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
