Hilltown Families 
Berkshire Family Fun: February 2017
Berkshire County Highlights for Families:
February 2017
Find out about community events and learning opportunities happening throughout Berkshire County for the month of February. We’ll be adding to this list as the month progresses, so be sure to check back each week. Do you have an event you’d like to include in this list? Email us at info@hilltownfamilies.org.
To find out what’s happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, check our comprehensive list of Weekly Suggested Events, published every Thursday!
There you will also find our list of ongoing weekday playgroups, storyhours and events both in Berkshire County and throughout the region.
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 Pittsfield, Sandisfield, Windsor, and Mt. Washington 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!
ADAMS
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
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
Saturday, February 4, 11am-9pm
MUSIC STUDIES/ART STUDIES
Have you ever heard elevator music…played live? Free Day at MASS MoCA will feature an array of artistic and musical learning opportunities, from pop-up performances to take-home art-making workshops. Take advantage of the pop-up photo booth and participate in the human sculpture contest. Kidspace artists-in-residence Huck Elling and David Lane will be exhibiting artwork they have created in collaboration with 4th and 5th grade students from the North Adams Public Schools. Wrapping up the evening, Steven Bernstein’s Universal Melody Brass Band will play their funky classic hits and jazz tunes. Bernstein has been arranging music for thirty years and has been awarded three Grammy Awards. Admission and activities for the day are free with the exception of the Universal Melody Brass Band performance. 413-662-2111. 1040 Mass MoCA Way. North Adams, MA. (FREE admission; $ music tickets)
Saturday, February 18, 10am-4pm
PLACEMAKING/WINTERFEST
Winter festivals offer opportunities for play, learning, connection to place, community-building, and artistic expression. WinterFest offers families a chance to celebrate the coming end of the last of the wintriest months! North Adams’ WinterFest will feature ice sculpting, a farmers’ market, a chowder competition, hot chocolate, horse-drawn wagon rides, and ice skating! Get out and get moving! Weather permitting the fun will continue on Sunday, February 19. For more information, visit, Explore North Adams. Various locations downtown. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, February 19, 10am-4pm
PLACEMAKING/WINTERFEST
Winter festivals offer opportunities for play, learning, connection to place, community-building, and artistic expression. WinterFest offers families a chance to celebrate the coming end of the last of the wintriest months! North Adams’ WinterFest will feature ice sculpting, a farmers’ market, a chowder competition, hot chocolate, horse-drawn wagon rides, and ice skating! Get out and get moving! The second day of WinterFest on February 19 is weather dependant. Activities will include sledding, tubing, snowshoeing and other fun in the snow, as well as a bonfire. For more information, visit, Explore North Adams. Windsor Lake. 200 Windsor Lake Road. North Adams, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, February 25, 10:30am
ANTHROPOLOGY/MULTICULTURALISM
Travel the world without leaving Massachusetts! At “Our Big World Culture Fair,” you and your children can learn about other cultures and nations through listening to personal narratives, playing games, sampling foods, and engaging with lots of hands-on, educational activities. Past performances at this annual event have included African dancing and drumming, and stories in different languages. This event can help foster in your children an understanding that in this country and across the world, people live differently, and yet share important similarities. Call 413-664-4821 with any questions. Haskins Gym. 210 State Street. 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..
Friday, February 3, 7pm
ART STUDIES/JAPANESE CULTURE
The museum is even more fun after hours! Come to an evening of creativity, live jazz, and gallery talks after hours at the Clark Art Institute and peruse the exhibition, Japanese Impressions: Color Woodblock Prints from the Rodbell Family Collection. This event will evoke the feeling of a Setsubun, a Japanese celebration of changing seasons, signifying good luck to come in the Spring, attendees will gather for conversation and contribute to a kintsugi collage wall hanging. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. (Members <$; Non members $)
Sunday, February 5, 1pm-5pm
ART STUDIES/CALLIGRAPHY
Calligraphy brings artistic visual elements to the act of writing. Calligraphy can be a fun activity for those who enjoy writing or drawing, or want to improve their penmanship. Like many art activities calligraphy can help you hone your patience by focusing on a tactile task. For children, projects such as this can help hone fine motor skills. Ann Kremers, professional calligrapher, will be giving a calligraphy demonstrations to visitors of all ages at the Clark Art Institute, as part of First Sundays Free. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, February 5, 1:30pm-4:30pm
JAPANESE CULTURE/FILM STUDIES
Stories of ghosts, spirits, apparitions, or some similar entity is a cultural universal, appearing in various forms in cultures all over the world. You can explore another culture’s ghost stories by screening the unrated, 1965 film, Kwaidan (unrated). What kinds of similarities or differences can you see, comparing American contemporary ghost stories to this film, which adapts four, nineteenth century Japanese folk tales. This event is part of the series, “Colors of Japan: Cinematic Impressions,” providing local art fans with the chance to explore Japanese culture through a variety of Japanese films and artwork at the Clark Art Institute. The film series is occurring in conjunction with the exhibition Japanese Impressions: Color Woodblock Prints. Check out both the film and the exhibit for a crash course in Japanese artistic expression. All films are in Japanese with English subtitles. This is the second to last film in the series, followed by Equinox Flower on February 26. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA.
Wednesday, February 8, 6pm
FILM STUDIES/ANIME
The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter is considered the oldest known Japanese narrative. This 10th century Japanese folktale tells the story of a childless bamboo cutter who finds an infant in a stalk of bamboo. Folktales of any culture can be a useful key to understanding modern literature and narrative art forms. The 2015 film, The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (rated PG) combines elements of this famous folktale with beautiful, hand-drawn artwork. This film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. The Clark Art Institute will be screening the film as part of their anime film series, in conjunction with the current exhibition, Japanese Impressions: Color Woodblock Prints from the Rodbell Family Collection. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, February 11, 10am-12pm
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP/NATURE STUDIES
“Leave No Trace” is a term referring to a set of principles for conserving natural lands. Nature lovers can use these principles to learn how they can spend time outdoors without negatively impacting the environment. Some basic tenets include taking your trash with you and minimizing the impact of campfires. You can introduce the next generation to these important principles by bringing your elementary school aged children to a workshop at Sheep Hill farm. For more information, please email: ruraland@wrlf.org. 413-458-2494. 671 Cold Spring Road. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Monday, February 13, 7pm
FILM STUDIES/FRENCH STUDIES
The 2015 drama La Belle Saison (Summertime) (not rated) paints a picture of rural France in 1971, and tells the story of a young woman’s struggle against homophobia and class divisions. The main character Delphine moves from her family’s farm in Limousin, to Paris, where she falls in love with political activist, Carole. She returns to home a changed woman, and brings Carole with her. This authentic love story provides educational insight into the feminist movement in France, while carefully depicting the powerful dramas which occur within the family dynamic. You can screen this film at Images Cinema as part of Williams College’s ongoing series, “School Stories: Diversity and Adversity in New French Film.” 50 Spring Street. 413-458-5612. Williamstown, MA. (<$)
Friday, February 17, 8pm
ASTRONOMY
Astronomy is a natural science which applies mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Astronomers use various mathematical and scientific methods to answer questions such as the distance between celestial bodies, their physical movements, and even their origins. Studying astronomy formally can appeal to people with strong mathematical and scientific inclinations. At the same time, nearly anyone can appreciate the beauty and wonder of the night sky. Whether your interest is scientific, artistic, or spiritual in nature, you can learn about astronomy by attending free shows for the public held at the Milham Planetarium, located inside the Old Hopkins Observatory at Williams College. Astronomy students will use the Zeiss Skymaster to demonstrate phenomena such as retrograde motions of planets, phases of the moon, and locations of neighboring galaxies. They will teach audiences about mythological figures and zodiacal signs ascribed to constellations, artificial satellites, and much more. Shows run Fridays through through May 12, with the exception of March 17, 24, and 31. Call 413-597-2188 for reservations. 829 Main Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, February 19, 2pm
MUSIC STUDIES/CLASSICAL
Ludwig Van Beethoven is a figure often discussed in music classes from elementary school up to college and beyond. In addition to the impact Beethoven had on Classical music, he also led a difficult life and lost his hearing in his late twenties. Due to his talent, historical impact, and fascinating personal life, he has been a prominent figure in both musical and historical studies. Beethoven composed, among many other works, five sonatas for cello and piano. You can hear each one performed by cellist Edward Arron and pianist Jeewon Park, at the Clark Art Institute. The sonatas span Beethoven’s career; hearing them will provide insight into his growth as a composer. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. ($$; Students with valid ID FREE)
Monday, February 20, 7pm
FILM STUDIES/FRENCH STUDIES
The 2015 drama La Belle Saison (Summertime) (not rated) paints a picture of rural France in 1971, and tells the story of a young woman’s struggle against homophobia and class divisions. The main character Delphine moves from her family’s farm in Limousin, to Paris, where she falls in love with political activist, Carole. She returns to home a changed woman, and brings Carole with her. This authentic love story provides educational insight into the feminist movement in France, while carefully depicting the powerful dramas which occur within the family dynamic. You can screen this film at Images Cinema as part of Williams College’s ongoing series, “School Stories: Diversity and Adversity in New French Film.” 50 Spring Street. 413-458-5612. Williamstown, MA. (<$)
Friday, February 24, 8pm
ASTRONOMY
Astronomy is a natural science which applies mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Astronomers use various mathematical and scientific methods to answer questions such as the distance between celestial bodies, their physical movements, and even their origins. Studying astronomy formally can appeal to people with strong mathematical and scientific inclinations. At the same time, nearly anyone can appreciate the beauty and wonder of the night sky. Whether your interest is scientific, artistic, or spiritual in nature, you can learn about astronomy by attending free shows for the public held at the Milham Planetarium, located inside the Old Hopkins Observatory at Williams College. Astronomy students will use the Zeiss Skymaster to demonstrate phenomena such as retrograde motions of planets, phases of the moon, and locations of neighboring galaxies. They will teach audiences about mythological figures and zodiacal signs ascribed to constellations, artificial satellites, and much more. Shows run Fridays through through May 12, with the exception of March 17, 24, and 31. Call 413-597-2188 for reservations. 829 Main Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, February 26, 1:30pm-3:30pm
FILM STUDIES/JAPANESE CULTURE
The first color film was made in 1932. Even in the 1940s and 1950s, color film was a relatively new art form and filmmakers were experimenting with the visual effect of color on their movies. The 1958 film Equinox Flower (unrated) was director Yasujiro Ozu’s first film in color, released seven years after the first Japanese color film. You can screen this film at the Clark Art Institute, thinking about the role of color and cinematography play on your experience on the film. This film is presented in conjunction with the special exhibition Japanese Impressions: Color Woodblock Prints from the Rodbell Family Collection, on view through April 2. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
Monday, February 27, 7pm
FILM STUDIES/FRENCH FILM
In American culture, it is well known and understood that artists of all kinds struggle financially. We sometimes convey this through the phrase “starving artist.” Is this the case in other cultures? In the 2014 film Qu’Allah bénisse la France! (May Allah Bless France!), French rapper and novelist Abd Al Malik draws upon his own experiences as a struggling artist. The film’s main character, Régis, uses petty crime to fund his music, before eventually fingin salvation in literature and Islam. You can learn about contemporary French film, culture, and music, as well as Islamic religion, by viewing this film at Images Cinema. This screening is the final event in Williams College’s series, “School Stories: Diversity and Adversity in New French Film.” 50 Spring Street. 413-458-5612. Williamstown, MA. (<$)
Tuesday, February 28, 5:30pm
ART STUDIES/THEATER STUDIES
Within the realm of theater, set design is an art form in its own right. You can learn about the art of set design, and how people created ideas about space through painting and other means, at this lecture: “The Painted Stage: Drama in Pictures and Pictures in Drama at Rome.” Clark/Oakley Fellow Marden Nichols will be discussing the Roman concept of theater as pictures-in-motion at the Clark Art Institute, kicking off a seven-part lecture series. Marden Nichols is assistant professor of classics at Georgetown University. 413-458-2303. 225 South Street. Williamstown, MA. (FREE)
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.
Tuesday, February 14, 7-9pm
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE/PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
Snowshoes, Beer & Chocolate – Oh my! Valentine’s Day, Tuesday, February 14 from 7-9pm at Notchview in Windsor, MA. A unique way to spend Valentine’s Day! Enjoy a night time self-guided snowshoe on Notchview’s beautiful woodland trails followed by a cozy evening in the warmth of the visitor center for tasting of beer and chocolate! There will be a chocolate fountain too! Members: $12; Nonmembers: $20. Registration preferred. Snowshoe rentals available on a first come, first served basis. Bring a headlamp! For more information: acaluori@thetrustees.org or call 413-684-0148.
Saturday, February 11, 10am-3pm
NORDIC SKIING
Winter Trails is a national annual event that offers children and adults new to snowshoeing and nordic skiing the chance to try out snowshoes and cross-country skis on local trails while showcasing the health benefits of these two outdoor winter activities. These low-impact aerobic sports incorporate strength and endurance training, and can help people stay active and healthy throughout the winter months when other sports are more difficult to pursue. Notchview will be participating, offing half priced and free 2-hour snowshoe & ski equipment rentals on a first-come, first-served basis. 413-684-0148 . 83 Old Route 9. Windsor, MA. (<$)
Saturday, February 11, 6pm-8pm
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES/SNOWSHOE
Did you know that snowshoeing was practiced 6,000 years ago? The world’s oldest known snowshoe was discovered in September 2016 at an altitude of 10,280 ft on the Gurgler Eisjoch glacier close to the Italian-Austrian border. Learn more by reading our post, History of Snowshoeing. You can engage in this 6,000-year-old sport, and learn about ornithology, by participating in a guided hike at Notchview. Participants will learn to look for the sights and sounds of owls, and enjoy pizza in the visitor’s center after the hike. Registration is required. Bring your own snowshoes! Snowshoe rentals available on first come first served basis. For more information call The Trustees at 413-628-4485 x3. 83 Old Route 9. Windsor, MA. (Member <$; Non member $)
Tuesday, February 14, 7pm-9pm
VALENTINE’S DAY/PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
Snowshoes, Beer and Chocolate – Oh my! Spend the holiday at Notchview and enjoy a night time self-guided snowshoe on the beautiful woodland trails. Snowshoeing will be followed by a cozy evening in the warmth of the visitor center, with a tasting of beer and chocolate! There will be a chocolate fountain too! Registration is preferred. Snowshoe rentals available on a first come, first served basis. Bring a headlamp! For more information: acaluori@thetrustees.org or call 413-684-0148. 83 Old Route 9. Windsor, MA. ($)
Saturday, February 18, 2pm-4:15pm
PHOTOGRAPHY/NATURE
Want to improve your photography skills? Before you buy an expensive camera, see what you can do with what you already have. Bring your smartphone and a seasoned photographer will show you the best settings, techniques, and apps to capture the beautiful winter scenes at Notchview. Photography can be a great metaphor for attitude and personality. Two people can capture the same image with a completely different focus, even creating different moods from the same scene. See what your creative lens reveals. Registration is required required. For more information call The Trustees at 413-628-4485 ex 3. 83 Old 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)
Monday, February 27, 5:30pm-8pm
PHOTOGRAPHY/PORTRAITURE
People have long been a popular subject for paintings. Since the invention of photography, photographic portraits have grown into a thriving industry all over the world. You can learn the basics of photographic portraits by attending a free, interactive seminar at the Lee Library. Photographer Thad Kubis will discuss technical decisions about lighting, depth of field, and selecting the correct focal length. He will also discuss techniques used for candid, studio, and street portraits. 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.
Saturday, February 4, 3:30pm
LIVING HISTORY
Teddy Roosevelt was a soldier, naturalist, historian, father, statesman, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, and remains to this day a relatively popular presidential figure. Author, educator, and actor Ted Zalewski will be bring Roosevelt’s boisterous personality to life at Ventfort Hall. This one-man performance will be followed by a Victorian tea. Step into the past and learn about the life and personality of the 32nd United States president. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. ($$)
Friday, February 10, 10am
THEATER/SHAKESPEARE
Romeo and Juliet, the story of “star-crossed” lovers from dueling families, remains a popular play to read and to perform today, more than four hundred years after Shakespeare wrote it. William Shakespeare permanently reshaped the English language as we know it today, inventing hundreds of words and phrases in his writing which are now commonly used. Young actors and fans of literature are invited to a performance of Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare and Company. This performance is for student audiences. Homeschooled parents are invited to bring their homeschoolers. Performances run for 90 minutes, and are followed by an optional 15-minute talkback with the actors. 413-637-3353. 70 Kemble Street. Lenox, MA. (Student <$; Chaperone FREE)
Saturday, February 11, 1pm-2:30pm
ANIMAL STUDIES/CRAFTS
By putting a bat house on your property, you are helping bats who may not have a safe place to live due to deforestation. Attracting bats near your home also allows you to observe them. In this workshop at the Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary you will be taught how to build a bat box and where to put it in order to attract bats. You will also learn about various species in your area and their natural history. Ages five and up. Bat houses may be donated to Mass Audubon if you don’t have a suitable location. All materials and equipment are included in the program fee. Call 413-637-0320 to register. 472 West Mountain Road. Lenox, MA. (Adult $$; Child FREE)
Monday, February 13, 10am
THEATER/SHAKESPEARE
A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a great introductory play for students beginning to learn about Shakespeare. This comedy has a relatively simple plot compared to other Shakespeare plays and as a comedy, it has a happy ending. More advanced students can use this play to contrast a Shakespearean comedy with one of his tragedies, such as the also popular Romeo and Juliet. William Shakespeare permanently reshaped the English language as we know it today, inventing hundreds of words and phrases in his writing which are now commonly used. Young actors and fans of literature are invited to a performance of Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare and Company. This performance is for student audiences. Homeschooled parents are invited to bring their homeschoolers. Performances run for 90 minutes, and are followed by an optional 15-minute talkback with the actors. 413-637-3353. 70 Kemble Street. Lenox, MA. (Student <$; Chaperone FREE)
Saturday, February 18, 6pm
THEATER/PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
Dinner, theatrics, comedy, mystery, and wine! You’ll get all of the above at “Don’t Wine If You Are Murdered!” a dinner theater performance at Ventfort Hall. Helena Handbasket invites you to her winetasting, where the audience will be called upon to help solve the mystery of who murdered world-famous Wine Connoisseur U. Paul McCork! The Comical Mystery Theater Tour ensemble has appeared at Ventfort Hall to sold-out audiences and has been performing for over two decades. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA. ($$)
Saturday, February 25, 10am-12pm
GUIDED NATURE HIKE/TRACKING
Do you like solving riddles, puzzles, or mysteries? You might enjoy tracking wildlife! Come to Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary for a two hour adventure outdoors and learn how to look for visual clues of animal behavior. This event is suitable for ages six and up. Time spent in nature is an opportunity to learn through observation, once you know what to look for. Dress warmly and in layers. Snowshoes will be provided if the conditions warrant. Registration is not required. Call 413-637-0320 for more information. 472 West Mountain Road. Lenox, MA. (<$)
Saturday, February 25, 1pm-2:30pm
ORNITHOLOGY
Putting a nest box on your property can help protect vulnerable species while teaching you about wildlife. This Kestrel & Wood Duck Nest Box Building Workshop at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary will teach participants about the natural history of these birds and help them identify an ideal location for a nest box. All materials and equipment are included in the program fee and no experience is necessary. 413-637-0320. 472 West Mountain Road. Lenox, MA. ($$; child 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.
Friday, February 3, 10am-4pm
STEM/LIFELONG LEARNING
It’s never too late to develop a new interest or expand your knowledge of a subject you love. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute will be at the Berkshire Museum providing science courses for lifelong learners. On February 3, there will be three sessions on three scientific topics: Science Conversations at 10am, Advances in Medicine at 12:30pm, and A Picture is Worth More Than a Thousand Words – Understanding Visual Perceptual Phenomena from 2:30pm-4pm. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (<$)
Friday, February 3, 6pm-7:30pm
ANIMAL STUDIES/CANIDS
You’ve heard of “canines,” a word which can be used to refer to man’s furry best friend, the domestic dog, or to refer to the sharp teeth we both have. “Canid” is a biological family of carnivorous mammals, including dogs, wolves, foxes and coyotes. Wildlife tracker Sue Morse will be teaching people about these species in her talk, “Wild Cousins of Our Best Friends: Wolves, Coyotes and Foxes.” Her talk will include photographs of her expeditions observing canid species in varied habitats, from the northeast United States, to the Arctic, to Canada. For more information, call Berkshire Environmental Action Team (BEAT) at 413-429-6416. This presentation is open to the public and will take place at The Boland Theater on Berkshire Community College’s main campus. 1350 West Street. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, February 9, 6:30pm-8pm
ART STUDIES/DRAWING
Zentangle is a simple, structured method of drawing which relies on patterns. Learning how to draw these structures is a creative way to engage with geometry, as well as a relaxing hands-on activity. Zentangle drawing can be combined with a meditation practice or simply be a way of branching out your artwork. Delsie Dunn will be running a Zentangle Evening of Relaxation at the Berkshire Athenaeum. Registration is required. Call 413-623-5483 by noon the day of the event. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (<$)
Saturday, February 11, 10am-12pm
GUIDED NATURE HIKE/TRACKING
Do you like solving riddles, puzzles, or mysteries? You might enjoy tracking wildlife! Come to Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary for a two hour adventure outdoors and learn how to look for visual clues of animal behavior. This event is suitable for ages six and up. Time spent in nature is an opportunity to learn through observation, once you know what to look for. Dress warmly and in layers. Snowshoes will be provided if the conditions warrant. Registration is not required. Call 413-637-0320 for more information. Holmes Road. Pittsfield, MA. (<$)
Wednesday, February 15, 10am-5pm
STEM/MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Science fairs ask young people to demonstrate their scientific knowledge through practically applying it in a creative way. Science projects can encourage outside-the-box, innovative thinking. The Berkshire Museum brings top-notch, high school science projects to the public at their annual Science and Innovation Fair, featuring approximately 100 students from Pittsfield’s public high schools. Teens will likely be inspired by the work of their peers. People of all ages can use this fair as inspiration for their own scientific ideas. Museum admission is free for the day of the science fair. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, February 16, 2pm-8pm
PLACEMAKING/ART STUDIES
Pittsfield’s 10×10 Upstreet Arts Festival offers ten days of community-based cultural events that showcase music, theater, art, local food, play and creativity. This annual event celebrates the rich arts and culture found in the communities of the Berkshires. Theatrical performances include the New Play Festival, showcasing ten new, ten-minute plays with small ensembles of just six actors (7:30pm). There will be educational learning opportunities in the form of art lectures and discussions. Visit the festival website for a full schedule of events. Various locations. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE – $$)
Friday, February 17, 5:30pm-7:30pm
CREATIVE FREE PLAY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Play is the work of childhood. Creative, self-directed play teaches children physical, mental, social, and emotional skills- all while they’re having a great time. Ten Days of Play at the Berkshire Museum encourages youth to experiment, improvise, create, and learn while they play. Friday, February 17, the event kicks off with Free Community Night. Visit the brand new Curiosity Incubator, as well as a LEGO® station, Tegu magnetic block station, and the Imagination Playground. These open-ended, child-directed stations are bound to bring out your child’s natural instinct for creative free play. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, February 18, 8am-9:30pm
PLACEMAKING/ART STUDIES
10×20 Upstreet Arts Festival consists of ten days of community-based cultural events that showcase music, theater, art, local food, play and creativity and celebrate the rich arts and culture found in the communities of the Berkshires! This annual winter celebration features daily performances and activities to connect you to your area and to other community members. Programs on February 18 will include historical learning through photography, a new photographic art exhibit opening talk, ten minute plays and more. Visit the Discover Pittsfield website for a full schedule of events. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE – $$)
Saturday, February 18, 10am-4pm
PLACEMAKING/WINTERFEST
Pittsfield’s 10×10 Upstreet Arts Festival offers ten days of community-based cultural events that showcase music, theater, art, local food, play and creativity. This annual event celebrates the rich arts and culture found in the communities of the Berkshires. Theatrical performances include the New Play Festival, showcasing ten new, ten-minute plays with small ensembles of just six actors. There will be educational learning opportunities in the form of art lectures and discussions. On February 18, the arts festival coincides with the 20th annual WinterFest, offering tons of winter fun including ice sculpting and a chowder competition. Visit the festival website for a full schedule of events. Various locations. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE – $$)
Saturday, February 18, 11am-3pm
CREATIVE FREE PLAY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Play is the work of childhood. Creative, self-directed play teaches children physical, mental, social, and emotional skills- all while they’re having a great time. Ten Days of Play at the Berkshire Museum encourages youth to experiment, improvise, create, and learn while they play. Visit the brand new Curiosity Incubator, as well as a LEGO® station, Tegu magnetic block station, and the Imagination Playground. These open-ended, child-directed stations are bound to bring out your child’s natural instinct for creative free play. Ten Days of Play activities are included with regular Museum admission and will be available daily from 11am-3pm daily, and 12pm-3pm on Sundays through February 26, in connection with Pittsfield’s 10×10 Upstreet Arts Festival. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, February 19, 11am-5pm
PLACEMAKING/ART STUDIES
10×20 Upstreet Arts Festival consists of ten days of community-based cultural events that showcase music, theater, art, local food, play and creativity and celebrate the rich arts and culture found in the communities of the Berkshires! This annual winter celebration features daily performances and activities to connect you to your area and to other community members. Programs on February 19 will include a new photographic art exhibit, film shorts, ten minute plays and more. Visit the Discover Pittsfield website for a full schedule of events. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE – $$)
Sunday, February 19, 12pm-3pm
CREATIVE FREE PLAY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Play is the work of childhood. Creative, self-directed play teaches children physical, mental, social, and emotional skills- all while they’re having a great time. Ten Days of Play at the Berkshire Museum encourages youth to experiment, improvise, create, and learn while they play. Visit the brand new Curiosity Incubator, as well as a LEGO® station, Tegu magnetic block station, and the Imagination Playground. These open-ended, child-directed stations are bound to bring out your child’s natural instinct for creative free play. Ten Days of Play activities are included with regular Museum admission and will be available daily from 11am-3pm daily, and 12pm-3pm on Sundays through February 26, in connection with Pittsfield’s 10×10 Upstreet Arts Festival. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Monday, February 20, 11am-3pm
CREATIVE FREE PLAY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Play is the work of childhood. Creative, self-directed play teaches children physical, mental, social, and emotional skills- all while they’re having a great time. Ten Days of Play at the Berkshire Museum encourages youth to experiment, improvise, create, and learn while they play. Visit the brand new Curiosity Incubator, as well as a LEGO® station, Tegu magnetic block station, and the Imagination Playground. These open-ended, child-directed stations are bound to bring out your child’s natural instinct for creative free play. Ten Days of Play activities are included with regular Museum admission and will be available daily from 11am-3pm daily, and 12pm-3pm on Sundays through February 26, in connection with Pittsfield’s 10×10 Upstreet Arts Festival. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Monday, February 20, 11am-9pm
PLACEMAKING/ART STUDIES
10×20 Upstreet Arts Festival consists of ten days of community-based cultural events that showcase music, theater, art, local food, play and creativity and celebrate the rich arts and culture found in the communities of the Berkshires! This annual winter celebration features daily performances and activities to connect you to your area and to other community members. Programs on February 20 will include family theater and spoken word poetry. Visit the Discover Pittsfield website for a full schedule of events. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE – $$)
Tuesday, February 21, 9am-1pm
PLACEMAKING/ART STUDIES
10×20 Upstreet Arts Festival consists of ten days of community-based cultural events that showcase music, theater, art, local food, play and creativity and celebrate the rich arts and culture found in the communities of the Berkshires! This annual winter celebration features daily performances and activities to connect you to your area and to other community members. Programs on February 21 will include family theater and a photographic art exhibition. Visit the Discover Pittsfield website for a full schedule of events. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE – $$)
Tuesday, February 21, 11am-3pm
CREATIVE FREE PLAY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Play is the work of childhood. Creative, self-directed play teaches children physical, mental, social, and emotional skills- all while they’re having a great time. Ten Days of Play at the Berkshire Museum encourages youth to experiment, improvise, create, and learn while they play. Visit the brand new Curiosity Incubator, as well as a LEGO® station, Tegu magnetic block station, and the Imagination Playground. These open-ended, child-directed stations are bound to bring out your child’s natural instinct for creative free play. Ten Days of Play activities are included with regular Museum admission and will be available daily from 11am-3pm daily, and 12pm-3pm on Sundays through February 26, in connection with Pittsfield’s 10×10 Upstreet Arts Festival. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Wednesday, February 22, 11am-3pm
CREATIVE FREE PLAY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Play is the work of childhood. Creative, self-directed play teaches children physical, mental, social, and emotional skills- all while they’re having a great time. Ten Days of Play at the Berkshire Museum encourages youth to experiment, improvise, create, and learn while they play. Visit the brand new Curiosity Incubator, as well as a LEGO® station, Tegu magnetic block station, and the Imagination Playground. These open-ended, child-directed stations are bound to bring out your child’s natural instinct for creative free play. Ten Days of Play activities are included with regular Museum admission and will be available daily from 11am-3pm daily, and 12pm-3pm on Sundays through February 26, in connection with Pittsfield’s 10×10 Upstreet Arts Festival. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, February 23, 9am-9:15pm
PLACEMAKING/ART STUDIES
10×20 Upstreet Arts Festival consists of ten days of community-based cultural events that showcase music, theater, art, local food, play and creativity and celebrate the rich arts and culture found in the communities of the Berkshires! This annual winter celebration features daily performances and activities to connect you to your area and to other community members. Programs on February 23 will include family theater, a photographic art exhibition, Pecha Kucha presentations and more. Visit the Discover Pittsfield website for a full schedule of events. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE – $$)
Thursday, February 23, 11am-3pm
CREATIVE FREE PLAY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Play is the work of childhood. Creative, self-directed play teaches children physical, mental, social, and emotional skills- all while they’re having a great time. Ten Days of Play at the Berkshire Museum encourages youth to experiment, improvise, create, and learn while they play. Visit the brand new Curiosity Incubator, as well as a LEGO® station, Tegu magnetic block station, and the Imagination Playground. These open-ended, child-directed stations are bound to bring out your child’s natural instinct for creative free play. Ten Days of Play activities are included with regular Museum admission and will be available daily from 11am-3pm daily, and 12pm-3pm on Sundays through February 26, in connection with Pittsfield’s 10×10 Upstreet Arts Festival. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, February 23, 2pm-3pm
MUSIC STUDIES
When you listen to music, multiple areas of your brain become engaged and active. But when you actually play an instrument, that activity becomes more like a full-body brain workout. At the Berkshire Museum’s Instrument Petting Zoo, participants will be able to see, listen to, and play lots of different instruments! Picking the right instrument is an important factor for sustaining a lifelong hobby of musicianship. Explore risk-free as part of Ten Days of Play 2017. Included with regular museum admission. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. ($; children under 18 <$; members, ages three and under FREE)
Thursday, February 23, 6pm-8pm
IMMIGRATION STUDIES/CULTURAL PRESERVATION
Immigration stories are integral to the history and present culture of our communities. If you have an immigration story to share, The Berkshire Immigrant Stories Project will be offering assistance with the process of digitizing a chosen object and narrating a personal story. These narratives and artifacts will be shared on the “Your Story, Our Story” website. This workshop at the Berkshire Athenaeum is one in a series of three. Laptops, scanners, digital cameras will be provided, as well as food and drink. There will be writing and translation assistance available. The workshop is open to all. For more information on participating in the project or volunteering: call 413-236-4607. 1 Wendell Avenue. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE/VOLUNTEER)
Friday, February 24, 9am-10:30pm
PLACEMAKING/ART STUDIES
10×20 Upstreet Arts Festival consists of ten days of community-based cultural events that showcase music, theater, art, local food, play and creativity and celebrate the rich arts and culture found in the communities of the Berkshires! This annual winter celebration features daily performances and activities to connect you to your area and to other community members. Programs on February 24 will include a performance by Jacob’s Pillow Dance Company, history through photography, and ten minute plays! Visit the Discover Pittsfield website for a full schedule of events. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE – $$)
Friday, February 24, 11am-3pm
CREATIVE FREE PLAY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Play is the work of childhood. Creative, self-directed play teaches children physical, mental, social, and emotional skills- all while they’re having a great time. Ten Days of Play at the Berkshire Museum encourages youth to experiment, improvise, create, and learn while they play. Visit the brand new Curiosity Incubator, as well as a LEGO® station, Tegu magnetic block station, and the Imagination Playground. These open-ended, child-directed stations are bound to bring out your child’s natural instinct for creative free play. Ten Days of Play activities are included with regular Museum admission and will be available daily from 11am-3pm daily, and 12pm-3pm on Sundays through February 26, in connection with Pittsfield’s 10×10 Upstreet Arts Festival. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, February 25, 8am-9pm
PLACEMAKING/ART STUDIES
10×20 Upstreet Arts Festival consists of ten days of community-based cultural events that showcase music, theater, art, local food, play and creativity and celebrate the rich arts and culture found in the communities of the Berkshires! This annual winter celebration features daily performances and activities to connect you to your area and to other community members. The festival continuesp on February 25 with a 1-10 mile community run, mini golf at the Berkshire Athenaeum, plays, fireworks and much more. Visit the Discover Pittsfield website for a full schedule of events. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE – $$)
Saturday, February 25, 11am-3pm
CREATIVE FREE PLAY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Play is the work of childhood. Creative, self-directed play teaches children physical, mental, social, and emotional skills- all while they’re having a great time. Ten Days of Play at the Berkshire Museum encourages youth to experiment, improvise, create, and learn while they play. Visit the brand new Curiosity Incubator, as well as a LEGO® station, Tegu magnetic block station, and the Imagination Playground. These open-ended, child-directed stations are bound to bring out your child’s natural instinct for creative free play. Ten Days of Play activities are included with regular Museum admission and will be available daily from 11am-3pm daily, and 12pm-3pm on Sundays through February 26, in connection with Pittsfield’s 10×10 Upstreet Arts Festival. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, February 26, 12pm-3pm
CREATIVE FREE PLAY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES
Play is the work of childhood. Creative, self-directed play teaches children physical, mental, social, and emotional skills- all while they’re having a great time. Ten Days of Play at the Berkshire Museum encourages youth to experiment, improvise, create, and learn while they play. Visit the brand new Curiosity Incubator, as well as a LEGO® station, Tegu magnetic block station, and the Imagination Playground. These open-ended, child-directed stations are bound to bring out your child’s natural instinct for creative free play. Ten Days of Play activities are included with regular Museum admission and will be available daily from 11am-3pm daily, and 12pm-3pm on Sundays through February 26, in connection with Pittsfield’s 10×10 Upstreet Arts Festival. 413-443-7171. 39 South Street. Route 7. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, February 26, 10am-4pm
PLACEMAKING/ART STUDIES
10×20 Upstreet Arts Festival consists of ten days of community-based cultural events that showcase music, theater, art, local food, play and creativity and celebrate the rich arts and culture found in the communities of the Berkshires! This annual winter celebration features daily performances and activities to connect you to your area and to other community members. The festival wraps up on February 26 with creative free play, theatre, and a contemporary dance performance. Visit the Discover Pittsfield website for a full schedule of events. Pittsfield, MA. (FREE – $$)
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.
Wednesday, February 8, 11:30am-12:30pm
GUIDED NATURE HIKE
Hiking is safer and more enjoyable with friends! The Berkshire Natural Resource Council is sponsoring a guided, moderate 1.2 mile hike at Stevens Glen. Meet neighbors and community members who also enjoy spending time outdoors, and enjoy scenic views of the ravine. Bring lunch or a snack, water, and wear warm layers and appropriate footwear. Be prepared for potential ice on the trail. Dogs on leash are welcome. Email mleavitt@bnrc.org with any questions. Park at a small pull-off on the right with a sign for the Glen. Lenox Branch Road. West Stockbridge / Richmond, MA. (FREE)
Hilltop Orchard — Route 295.
Saturday, February 4, 2pm-4pm
ART STUDIES
Does your teen make art? Artistic, creative hobbies can be a great emotional outlet for young people. Art also takes considerable practice to master, so starting early can help teens hone their natural abilities. You and your teen can connect with other talented young artists at the 31st Annual Berkshire County High School Art Show! This special exhibition at the Norman Rockwell Museum is free of charge. Attendees can choose to pay regular museum admission in order to also visit the permanent exhibit. 413-298-4100. 9 Glendale Road. Stockbridge, MA. (FREE)
Thursday, February 16, 5:30pm
IMMIGRATION STUDIES/REFUGEES
The first step towards political involvement and social transformation is education. You can become more informed about the current, global refugee crisis, and gain an understanding of current immigration issues in the United States at an educational forum. Norman Rockwell Museum‘s Four Freedoms Forum speakers will include: Asma Abbas, Associate Professor of Politics and Philosophy at Bard College at Simon’s Rock; Hilary Greene, Director of Berkshire Immigrant Center; and Dr. Charles Park, Director of Berkshire Immigrant Stories Project. Come with questions and ideas to contribute, or simply listen. 413-298-4100. 9 Glendale Road. Stockbridge, MA. (FREE)
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.
Wednesday, February 8, 11:30am-12:30pm
GUIDED NATURE HIKE
Hiking is safer and more enjoyable with friends! The Berkshire Natural Resource Council is sponsoring a guided, moderate 1.2 mile hike at Stevens Glen. Meet neighbors and community members who also enjoy spending time outdoors, and enjoy scenic views of the ravine. Bring lunch or a snack, water, and wear warm layers and appropriate footwear. Be prepared for potential ice on the trail. Dogs on leash are welcome. Email mleavitt@bnrc.org with any questions. Park at a small pull-off on the right with a sign for the Glen. Lenox Branch Road. West Stockbridge / Richmond, MA. (FREE)
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!
Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30pm
CHESS
Research shows that, when played from a young age, chess can be beneficial to a child’s learning and development. The game requires the use of high-order thinking skills, such as weighing actions and consequences, and helps players practice decision making. The Susan Polgar Foundation offers a page of information on this topic. If your family is interested in learning to play chess or is in need of new people to play with, there are opportunities to do so locally! Berkshire Chess Club meets weekly in the community room at Muddy Brook Elementary School. Intergenerational and open to all skills. 413-528-4030. Great Barrington, MA (FREE)
Saturday, February 4, 7pm-9pm
MUSIC STUDIES/GOSPEL
Gospel is a genre of Christian music which can be traced back to the 17th century. Gospel music holds great historic and cultural significance in many African American communities. This year, you can kick off Black History Month by attending the Second Annual Gospel concert at Bard College at Simon’s Rock. This concert will feature both traditional and contemporary gospel music featuring choirs from Pittsfield, Albany, and Hudson. 413-644-4400. 84 Alford Road. Great Barrington, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, February 18, 10am-2pm
FARMERS’ MARKET
What kinds of vegetables can you buy fresh in the cold months? Find out by shopping and connecting with local farmers at Berkshire Grown’s Holiday Farmers’ Market! Bring along your children to teach them about the changing of the seasons through food. Local meats, cheeses, and vegetables will be available as well as craft items. There will also be live music and activities for kids. 413-528-0041. Monument Valley Middle School. 313 Monument Valley Road. Great Barrington, MA. (MARKET/SALE)
Berkshire South Regional Community Center — 413-528-2810. 15 Crissey Road.
Great Barrington Historical Society — South Main Street.
The Guthrie Center — 413-644-9288. 2 Van Deusenville Road.
Great Barrington Riverwalk — Church and River Streets.
Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center — 413-528-0100. 14 Castle Street.
Mason Library — 413-528-2403. 231 Main Street.
South Berkshire Kids – 413-464-5095. 444 Old Stockbridge Road.
Project Native – 413-274-3433. 342 North Plain Road.
Ramsdell Library – 413-274-3738. 1087 Main Street.
Bidwell House Museum — 413-528-6888. 100 Art School Road.
Cookson State Forest — Hotchkiss Road.
New Marlborough Library — 413-664-0104. 1 Mill River-Great Barrington Road.
Otis Library and Museum – 413-269-0109. 48 North Main Road.
Sunday, February 5, 2pm-4pm
HERBAL MEDICINE
For people who love to spend time outdoors, ticks and the threat of Lyme disease can be a significant concern. Hannah Jacobson-Hardy, community herbalist, will be at Bartholomew’s Cobble educating community members on how to prevent and treat Lyme disease with herbal medicine. Nature is the cause, but it can also help to cure! For more information please call 413-298-3239 ex 3013. 117 Cooper Hill Road. Sheffield, MA. (<$)
Sunday, February 12, 2pm-4pm
PLANT AND SOIL SCIENCE/BIOLOGY
This year, you can make Valentine’s Day a learning opportunity. Expand your biological knowledge by learning about plant reproduction, in this talk at Bartholomew’s Cobble. Plants differ greatly in their reproduction, from asexual plants to self-pollinating ones. For more information please call 413-298-3239 ex 3013. 117 Cooper Hill Road. Sheffield, MA. (Members <$; Non members $)
Sunday, February 19, 11am-1pm
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES/GAMES
Games can bring families together whether you’re playing on teams or individually. The Family Winter Olympics at Bartholomew’s Cobble will get family members outdoors and moving on their fun winter obstacle course. There will be plenty of silliness as families work together to reach the finish line. This event is suitable for ages 5 and up and will happen with or without snow. For more information please call 413-298-3239 ex3013. 117 Cooper Hill Road. Sheffield, MA. (Members <$; Non members $; Kids FREE)
Bushnell-Sage Library – 413-229-7004. 48 Main Street.
Bartholomew’s Cobble – 413-229-8600. 105 Weatogue Road.
Sheffield Historical Society. 413-229-2694. 91 Main St.
