Hilltown Families 
100+ Suggested Events in Western MA: September 28-October 11, 2019
Awarded the “Essential Agent of Change Award” by the MDPH’s Massachusetts Essentials for Childhood, Hilltown Families is recognized as a leading family strengthening initiative in the region, promoting “positive parenting through the social norm of community social connectedness.” Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families continues to support the development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, farms, individuals, schools, and non-profit organizations are invited to collaborate with Hilltown Families in their community outreach. With over 9,000 opt-in subscribers and 2.6+ million visits to our web site alone, Hilltown Families can deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out about our affordable advertising options and how you can partner with Hilltown Families in your online marketing by contacting us at info@hilltownfamilies.org… and scroll down to discover community-based educational events and community building opportunities happening this weekend and next week in Western MA!
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Class Directory
Western Massachusetts is rich in learning opportunities to supplement the interests of children, teens, and lifelong learners! Hilltown Families Class Directory features classes, lessons, enrichment programs, and membership opportunities across the region and throughout the year. Our Class Directory makes it easier to find these gems while connecting families with resources that support their interests and education, including theater, music, dance, art, and much more. — Have a class, private lesson, or program you’d like to include in our directory?
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Bulletin Board
Open House Oct 5
Come to Oak Meadow’s Open House Party on October 5 from 11am-1pm in Brattleboro, VT! Learn about their flexible, progressive homeschooling curriculum and distance learning school for grades K to 12. Speak with teachers, browse curriculum materials, and network with other families. Crafts and activities for students of all ages. Free and open to anyone interested in learning more about independent learning. For more info, visit oakmeadow.com/open-house.
Field Trips
Expand your classroom at the Springfield Museums. With 5 museums to mine for information and activities, the Springfield Museums does what few others can—combine art, history, science, and Dr. Seuss into fun-filled, engaging experiences that reinforce critical thinking & observation skills through inquiry-based learning. The Museums offer a broad range of school programs for all grades and interest levels, and all programs link directly to the MA State Curriculum Frameworks and help students prepare for standardized testing. Learn more at SpringfieldMuseums.org/groups/school. Fall Field Trip Discount: Visit between Oct 1 & Dec 31 for $1 off per student when booking 2+ programs. Contact 413-263-6800 x322 or fieldtrips@springfieldmuseums.org.
Oct 16 – Dec 18
“Sense of Place: Life Reflections Through the Seasons” an autumn writing workshop series with Hilltown Families founder, Sienna Wildfield. Understanding how we are a part of our changing landscape year after year as we move through the seasons strengthens our sense of place. Our experiences of autumn in New England as a child, teenager, young adult, parent, and grandparent are very different. Connecting our stages of life experiences through the seasons give us a better understanding of who we are in relation to where we are in the world. This intergenerational 8-week series will be held every Wed at 6pm at the Senior Center Café in Williamsburg. Best for lifelong learners & self-directed teens. Classes begin Oct 16 and run through the end of the year. RSVP: 413-268-8407. Cost: $10/class.
Sep 28
The second annual Arcadia Folk Festival returns on September 28th with Dar Williams, Anaïs Mitchell, Martin Sexton, and many more! This outdoor fall musical event will bring the community together around music in the heart of the Pioneer Valley to celebrate 75 years of Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary. Little Roots and The Mammals will perform music for the entire family. There will be nature activities, nature arts and craft projects, and a nature walk just for kids. The festival will also feature the best in local food vendors and Makers Market craft vendors making work inspired by nature or environmentally friendly / up-cycled art. Kids 10 and under are free! Tickets: www.arcadiafolkfest.com.
Sep 28 & 29
The 21st Annual North Quabbin Garlic and Arts Festival is the weekend of September 28 & 29, 10am-5pm in Orange, MA! There’s something for everyone at this fabulous family destination on a beautiful farm. Over 100 booths are vibrant with local artists, farmers, fabulous food, chef demos, and skills for local living. Enjoy amazing music, performance, spoken word, and dance on three stages — art and environmental activities for all ages. Admission is good for the weekend! Adults: $10; Students, Seniors, EBT cardholders $5; Kids 12 and under free. Visit www.garlicandarts.org for travel/parking info and full program; follow enjoyable festival updates daily on Facebook!
Fall Sales
Shop local and smart! There’s still time to stock up and save at River Valley Co-op this Fall during their amazing sale events. Get huge deals on full case discounts and more. September 18-October 1, Squirrel Away Savings: Great deals on items perfect for the pantry or freezer. Stock up and enjoy them for months to come! For information on these amazing sales and more, visit River Valley Co-op online at www.rivervalley.coop or call 413-584-2665. Or better yet, stop by! Open from 8am-10pm. River Valley Co-op is located at 330 North King St. in Northampton.
Oct 12
Saturday, October 12th 10am to 4pm, come enjoy a family friendly fun-filled fall day at Look Park Pumpkin Festival. Bounce houses, carnival games, pumpkin painting and a great juggling and variety show by Steve Corning! Wristbands for unlimited carnival games and a pumpkin to paint: $10. Individual Tickets: $.50 cents each. Visit www.lookpark.org or call 413-584-5457 for details.
Oct 13
Join OnTrend Crafts for their Fall Craft Fair on Sunday, October 13 at the beautiful Hadley Farms Meeting House in Hadley, MA. They’ll have 60 the region’s top crafters and makers selling their high-quality handmade goods. You’ll find jewelry, paper goods, wood crafts, housewares, ceramics, knitted apparel, and much more. Free admission; 10am to 4pm. For more information, visit ontrendcrafts.com or email Jennifer at jennifer@ontrendcrafts.com.
Oct 19
The Common School will hold its annual Children’s Carnival, open to the wider Pioneer Valley community, on Saturday, October 19, from 10am-2pm, on the school’s campus at 521 South Pleasant Street in Amherst, MA. Open to the community, the Children’s Carnival will offer old-fashioned activities, games, and entertainment, including a bounce house and live music. Admission to the carnival is free. Games and activities have a small fee. Breakfast, hearty lunches, and treats such as cotton candy, homemade baked goods, and smoothies will be available for purchase. This event will happen, rain or shine! For more information, call 413-256-8989 or go to www.commonschool.org.
Experience the very best with a YMCA in Greenfield Family Membership. When you and your family become members of the YMCA in Greenfield, you become part of Y family; full of caring members and dedicated, supportive staff. Your membership represents an investment in your family, as well as the mission of our Y; as they Y seeks to serve both members and the community, by enhancing the quality of life in Franklin County. Find your healthy – find your community – find yourself – at your YMCA in Greenfield. Free ChildWatch for ages 8 week-7 years. Free Game Room fun for children ages 6+. Fun Family events on Friday nights and Sunday afternoons at no extra cost. Free Dodgeball & Floor Hockey for ages 6-10. Discounts on summer camps, classes, and more! 413-773-3646. info@ymcaingreenfield.org. ymcaingreenfield.org.
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
September 28 – October 11, 2019
Saturday, Sept 28 • Sunday, Sept 29
Monday, Sept 30 • Tuesday, Oct 1 • Wednesday, Oct 2
Thursday, Oct 3 • Friday, Oct 4
Saturday, Oct 5 • Sunday, Oct 6
Monday, Oct 7 • Tuesday, Oct 8 • Wednesday, Oct 9
Thursday, Oct 10 • Friday, Oct 11
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Events Happening in the Hilltown
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
Saturday, September 28, 9-10am – FAMILY RADIO: In this episode, join Hilltown Family Variety Show Guest DJ, Dave Kinnoin from Grin Brigade for a show about good fortune. Listen to songs about things you like that you have some control over, and other things that are just plain lucky. Along the way, you’ll hear a few Spanish words which you may or may not know, think about what you can and can’t be, get tips on getting a high-paying job, mix some concrete, and eat a delicious taco. We’ll explore ways of being kind and generous that lead to wonderful feelings … good fortune, indeed. Click here select from over 13 years of archived shows! It’s better than Saturday morning cartoons and commercial radio! ♥ Hilltown Families eNewsletter subscribers are invited to an exclusive sneak peak every Thursday of the upcoming show. Check your eNewsletter to listen any time. Not a subscriber? Click here to subscribe to our free Weekly eNewsletter!
Saturday, September 28, TBD – RIVER CONSERVATION/VOLUNTEER: Our local ecosystems are home to thousands of species of flora and fauna, have a fascinating natural history, and connect us to our heritage. By engaging with community-based conservation organizations that focus on our river ecosystems, like the Connecticut River Conservancy, families can learn about and connect with our local landscape through the seasons of the year. Environmentalist, Dr. Kurt Heidinger of Biocitizen, points out that it’s easy to forget that a river is alive, and has a life that is valuable unless, from time to time, you touch it. Unless we “touch” the river, we can’t understand enough about it to be ethical towards it… There is a big difference between viewing a river, though, and touching it. Dr. Heidinger invites us to “touch” the Connecticut River, which flows for over 400 miles from just over the Canadian border to Long Island Sound. One way to touch the Connecticut River is to volunteer to assist the Source to Sea Clean-up, an annual trash cleanup of the Connecticut River system in late September. Visit the Connecticut River Conservancy website to sign-up to participate. 413-772-2020 x211. Pioneer Valley, MA.
Saturday, September 28, 9am-2pm – ART STUDIES/DRAWING ANIMALS: Drawing Animals Workshop with Eliza Moser. Learn tips and tricks in drawing animals. Whether it’s a family pet or a wild beast, join in for a day of drawing your favorite furry friends. Workshop13. 413-277-6072. 13 Church Street, Ware, MA.
Saturday, September 28, 9:30-11am – COMMUNITY MEAL/COMMUNITY SERVICE: Community Breakfast hosted by Amherst Survival Center, open to all! Delicious food. Great company. Come break bread, connect with an old friend, meet the volunteers. Bring a neighbor who hasn’t been to ASC. Sign up for a volunteer orientation. Get a tour. Learn about local legislative efforts to increase food security. The brief speaking program will be offered in English and Spanish. Amherst Survival Center. 413-549-3968. 138 Sunderland Road, North Amherst, MA.
Saturday, September 28, 10am – SCULPTURE WORKSHOP: Park Hill Orchard hosts Saturday Sculpture Workshops. Participants will be using their imaginations and recycled materials to create sculptures of fauna and flora. Workshops are free – no registration required – all are welcome! Please note: all children must be accompanied by an adult. Park Hill Orchard. 413-527-6186. 82 Park Hill Road. Easthampton, MA.
Saturday, September 28, 10am-4pm – FOLK TRADITIONS/SILVERSMITHING & STONEWARE POTTERY: Visitors to Historic Deerfield will meet talented craftspeople and observe their work up close at these Historic Trade demonstrations, including Silversmithing with Steve Smithers and Stoneware Pottery with Mark Shapiro. Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
Saturday, September 28, 10:30am – ZOOLOGY/REPTILES: Life Around the Lake: Reptiles are this week’s focus. The reptiles are on full display as participants travel around Bray Lake on this one hour walk. Hear about snakes and turtles and what they have to do to survive this watery habitat. Meet at Bray Lake. Mt. Tom State Reservation Stone House Visitor Center. 413-527-4805. 125 Reservation Rd, Holyoke, MA.
Saturday, September 28, 10:30am – JAPANESE STORY-TELLING: Kamishibai Story Time. Local author of Japanese language children’s books, Susan Matsui, will read from her books (in English translation), and will lead some fun song and movement activities to go with them. She will also perform a couple of kamishibai, a Japanese story-telling art form that uses a little wooden theater box and picture cards. This program is best for children ages 1 – 5 and their caregivers, but all are welcome. Sunderland Public Library. 20 School Street, Sunderland, MA
Saturday, September 28, 12-4pm – HARVEST FESTIVAL/AGRICULTURE: Come celebrate the gift of the harvest at Nuestras Raices Farm in Holyoke! In addition to live traditional music and dance, you will absolutely not want to miss the lechon, or traditional whole roast pig. Lechon is the national dish of Puerto Rico and occupies a place of enormous importance in Puerto Rican culture. Like many of the world’s best dishes, lechon is deceptively simple. A simple whole pig is slowly roasted, while basting the skin, resulting in a uniquely crispy texture. Lechon is wildly popular across the Latin American world and though there are regional differences, the essence remains the same. Get to know the people who are responsible for producing the local food that we enjoy and connect with the community. Nuestras Raices Farm. 413-535-1789. 24 Jones Ferry Road, Holyoke, MA.
Saturday, September 28, 7pm – PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT/TRAIN RIDE: Hoosac Valley Train rides are great for a special date night. Travel 10 miles on a one-hour scenic train trip through history. Staff are excited to share this rail experience with you. This evening is one of their select Cabaret Train Rides with live cabaret singers Ron and Samantha. BYO beverages & snacks. Purchase tickets online only to guarantee your seats or come 30 minutes before ride to purchase tickets at the counter. 413-663-4189. Adams Welcome Center. 3 Hoosac St, Adams, MA.
Saturday, September 28, 7:30pm – HISTORICAL COMEDY/FRENCH REVOLUTION: The Revolutionists. The Revolutionists is a brutal comedic quartet about four very real women who lived boldly in France during the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror (1793-1794). Playwright Olympe De Gouge, assassin Charlotte Corday, former queen (and fan of ribbons) Marie Antoinette, and Haitian rebel Marianne Angelle hang out, murder Marat, loose their heads, and try to beat back the extremist insanity in revolutionary Paris. The Revolutionists invites audiences to experience history from a new perspective in this grand and dream-tweaked comedy about violence and legacy, feminism and terrorism, art and how we actually go about changing the world. Performances will be held at the Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center, 289 Main Street, Greenfield, MA.
Saturday, September 28, 7:30-10pm – CONTRA DANCE/DANCE STUDIES: According to 19th century folklore, Fiddler’s Green is the afterlife to which sailors go if they have served for at least 50 years at sea. It is a place where joy abounds and the fiddling never ceases. As novelist Frederick Marryat wrote in 1856: “At Fiddler’s Green, where seamen true / When here they’ve done their duty / The bowl of grog shall still renew / And pledge to love and beauty.” Well, they don’t have an endless bowl of grog, but Fiddlers Green Contra Dance is a casual, fun, joyful community folk dance where everyone is welcome. Musicians are encouraged to join in and this event is perfect for beginners and all levels of experience. Ages 10 and above suggested. Midway through the event there will be potluck snacks and socializing. Munson Memorial Library. 1046 South East Street, Amherst, MA.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
Sunday, September 29, Dawn-Dusk – SCULPTURE/AGRICULTURE: Park Hill Orchard in Easthampton is home of “Art in the Orchard,” a biennal orchard-based gallery of outdoor sculptures and installation art to peruse with family from dawn to dusk any day of the week. Bringing “Culture into Horticulutre,” the orchard features the work of dozens of artists whose work is brought to life amongst the apple trees and changing landscape as we move from summer to fall. Park Hill Orchard. 413-527-6186. 82 Park Hill Road. Easthampton, MA.
Sunday, September 29, TBA – CHARITY BIKE RIDE/FOOD SECURITY: The Annual Will Bike 4 Food charity cycling event to benefit the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts takes place every late September. There are multiple rides to choose from – 3.5, 10, 25, 50, or 100 miles. Preregister and raise money to support food security. Will Bike 4 Food is a great opportunity for the whole family to get outdoors to support a good cause. Following the ride, cyclists are treated to a BBQ, music, brews (21+), and much more. Hatfield Lions Club Pavilion. 413-247-9738. Billings Way. Hatfield, MA.
Sunday, September 29, 11am-4pm – ARTS AND CRAFTS/SCARECROW WORKSHOP: On the Japanese island of Shikoku there is a strange little village called Nagoro, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. The village has only 35 inhabitants but over 350 scarecrows, many of which are shockingly lifelike. For years, villager Tsukimi Ayano has been making lifelike scarecrows of deceased villagers and placing them around the village in realistic poses. At a bus stop, for instance, one may see a group of huddled figures seated on a bench. In the abandoned schoolhouse, a roomful of children. Additionally, many of the scarecrows are wearing the actual clothes of the people they are meant to represent! Make your own scarecrow at Atkins Market and who knows, maybe you’ll be inspired to make an entire village full of them. Atkins Farms Country Market. 413-253-9528. 1150 West St. Amherst, MA.
Sunday, September 29, 1pm – ANIMALS STUDIES/HAWK MIGRATION: Learn about hawks and their migration and all the obstacles they go through to survive it. After a brief intro, participants will hike to Goat Peak to search for migrating hawks in this 90-minute program. Bring binoculars. Mt. Tom State Reservation Stone House Visitor Center. 413-527-4805. 125 Reservation Rd, Holyoke, MA.
Sunday, September 29, 4pm – MULTICULTURAL/JAPANESE THEATER: Experiencing the World of Japanese Noh Theater. Take an intimate glimpse into one of the world’s major performing arts traditions! Noh theatre combines elements of dance, drama, music and poetry into a dazzling aesthetic form. Tokyo-based Kanze School Noh actors Hisa and Hikaru Uzawa provide a rare opportunity to watch this 650-year-old art. Noh theater offers audiences a close-up look at the masks, gorgeous costumes, movement forms as they witness this one-of-a-kind theater experience! The performance will be held in the Hallie Flanagan Studio Theater at Smith College. 122 Green Street, Northampton, MA (FREE)
Sunday, September 29, 5:30-6pm – PHYSICS/DOMINOES – To help kids understand the concept of interrelatedness, try building your very own chain reactions at home using dominoes! Building chains of dominoes is the classic DIY chain reaction. At the annual Domino Toppling Extravaganza, see this classic DIY chain reaction take place on a large scale and marvel as skilled domino stackers put together an epic display of chain reactions with 30,000+ dominoes, as well as some cobra weave sticks and elements inspired by Rube Goldberg machines! Brattleboro Museum & Art Center. 802-257-0124.10 Vernon St. Brattleboro, VT.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
Monday, September 30, 10:30am – NATURAL HISTORY/GEOGRAPHY: Children ages 7-9 can learn about the history of Mt. Tom and the surrounding area through the program, “History of Mt. Tome and the Area.” Participants start 200 million years ago and work their way forward learning about volcanoes, dinosaurs, other plants and animals along with human interaction with summit houses, the CCC and Reservation construction. Mt. Tom State Reservation Stone House Visitor Center. 413-527-4805. 125 Reservation Rd, Holyoke, MA.
Monday, September 30, 6-7:30pm – WOMEN’S HISTORY/COLONIAL HISTORY: The Not-So-Good-Life of the Colonial Good Wife. Don’t miss this entertaining presentation from a mother/daughter team discussing the taboo topics of the colonial era. Laugh, grimace, and honor our foremother’s journeys while learning about the issues faced by colonial women. It’s “herstory” unsanitized! East Longmeadow Public Library. 413-525-5432. 60 Center Square, East Longmeadow, MA.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1
Tuesday, October 1, Dawn-Dusk – SCULPTURE/AGRICULTURE: Park Hill Orchard in Easthampton is home of “Art in the Orchard,” a biennal orchard-based gallery of outdoor sculptures and installation art to peruse with family from dawn to dusk any day of the week. Bringing “Culture into Horticulutre,” the orchard features the work of dozens of artists whose work is brought to life amongst the apple trees and changing landscape as we move from summer to fall. Park Hill Orchard. 413-527-6186. 82 Park Hill Road. Easthampton, MA.
Tuesday, October 1, 10-11:30am – INTERPRETIVE WALK/LOCAL HISTORY: Morning Canal Walk at Holyoke Heritage State Park. Join the Park Interpreter for a walk around the block, stopping at points of historical significance. Discussions include how Holyoke has evolved from a major manufacturing city to a thriving cultural center. Each walk in the series will touch upon a specific historical or contemporary topic. Wear appropriate footwear and bring water. Heavy rain cancels. Suitable for individuals and families with children, ages 8 and older (siblings welcome). Holyoke Heritage State Park. 413-534-1723. 221 Appleton Street, Holyoke, MA.
Tuesday, October 1, 6:30pm – WORKSHOP/ORGANIZING: Need help staying organized? Join the Jones Library for Bullet Journaling 101 to learn about bullet journaling in a hands-on workshop. Bullet journaling is an amazing system that keeps a record of everything you could ever want to toss at it. It can be your task manager, sketchbook, journal, idea catcher, and much more. Learn how it can help you lead a more meaningful and productive life! All materials will be provided. Space is limited, and registration required. Please call 413-259-3096 to register. Free and open to the public. Jones Library. 43 Amity St, Amherst, MA.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2
Wednesday, October 2, All Day – CULINARY ARTS/PUMPKIN PIE: There are so many different uses for pumpkins! One of America’s oldest native crops, modern day uses include carving as ornaments for Halloween, prepared as pies, and highlighted as the main attraction in agricultural fairs (largest pumpkin contests) and fall festivals (pumpkin roll & pumpkin games). Needless to say, pumpkins are an integrated part of our fall traditions in Western MA. Self-directed and lifelong learners can find out how pumpkin can support an interest in pastry arts and Colonial History through seasonal pies in our post, How Pumpkin Pies Support Interests & Education.
Wednesday, October 2, 5:30-6:30pm – BOTANY/SEED SAVING: Berkshire Seed Library Seed Saving Workshop. Interested in saving money and resources by saving your seeds from your vegetable and flower gardens but aren’t sure where to start? Want to increase your food sovereignty and self-reliance at home through seed saving? Join others interested in the same to process seeds saved from community gardens in Pittsfield for the Berkshire Seed Library. Participants will cover the basics of saving heirloom and open-pollinated vegetable, and flower varieties and participants will take home a packet of seeds for next years gardens. No registration is necessary. All ages welcome. Berkshire Athenaeum. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, MA.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3
Thursday, October 3, 8:30pm – OUTDOOR MOVIE/PLACEMAKING: Movies Under the Stars at Look Park! Pack a blanket, grab the kids and enjoy a beloved family movie classic outdoors, Little Shop of Horrors. Entrance to Pines Theater for movies is free. Parking fee applies. Look Memorial Park. 413-584-5457. 300 N Main St, Florence, MA.
Thursday, October 3, 7:10-8:10pm – PARENTING/SOCIAL MEDIA: Movie screening on the impact of social media, hosted by Greenfield Safe Schools Safe Streets. Like is a 50-minute documentary about the impact of social media on our lives. It is not available anywhere online so this is your chance to see it! The movie will be shown for free after the Greenfield High School Open House. Like is most engaging for adults who are raising or educating youth – middle and high school students with a parent or guardian are also welcome and encouraged! Come a few minutes early for a free slice of pizza in the cafeteria. Stay after for a brief conversation about the film. Greenfield High School. 21 Barr Ave, Greenfield, MA.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4
Friday, October 4, 10:30-11:30am – ANIMAL STUDIES/BEARS: Kidleidoscope Story Hour. Come learn about our wildlife neighbors who share our home in the Connecticut River Watershed. The program includes a story, interactive games, and a craft to introduce young children to wildlife along the river. For ages 3-6, accompanied by an adult. Siblings and friends welcome. Great Falls Discovery Center. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA.
Friday, October 4, 10am-3pm – HERBALISM: Herbs and Practices for these Changing Times Workshop with herbalist, Tonya Lemos. Mary Oliver writes, “It is a serious thing just to be alive on this fresh morning in this broken world.” Being dedicated to a practice of self-care that nourishes and heals the body, heart, mind, and spirit may be the most empowering, and loving action you can do for yourself (and those around you). Working with both the medicinal and spiritual properties of herbs, participants in this workshop will create a heart-healing toolkit of valuable remedies for living on the Earth in these changing times, of herbs, daily rituals, healing practices which build resilience and support our healing journeys to wholeness and connection. Discus herbal allies (including Tulsi, Hawthorn, Self Heal, Goldenrod, Motherwort, Rose, Cacao) for these dark times and different ways of integrating them respectfully into our lives. Best for self-directed teens and lifelong learners. Blazing Star Herbal School. Conway, MA.
Friday, October 4, 5-8pm – ART STUDIES/PLACEMAKING: As Henry David Thoreau points out, the root of the word “saunter” comes from “the idle people who roved about the country… under the pretense of going à la Sainte Terre, or the Holy Land.” Thus the act of casually strolling an inherently sacred act. For those who saunter, the entire world becomes their Holy Land. To walk aimlessly is to find a pilgrimage in every step, a temple in every tree, shrub, or blade of grass. What better way to find your temple than to combine walking with art? Pittsfield’s First Fridays Artswalk features a dozen different art shows throughout the Upstreet Cultural District. Happens every month all year (except January). Come check out amazing local art and meet some of the artists! Guided tour begins at 5pm at the Intermodal Center (BRTA, 1 Columbus Ave.). Downtown Pittsfield. Pittsfield, MA.
Friday, October 4, 7-9pm – CIVICS/INTERGENERATIONAL: Civics Trivia Night, hosted by League of Women Voters of Franklin County. Join in the annual Civics Trivia Night Fundraiser! Featuring new Quizmasters, GCC President Dr. Yves Salomon-Fernández and state Senator Jo Comerford! New topics, cash prizes, and free snacks! $10 per person, with teams up to 8. Round up your friends and come out for some fun competition! Greenfield Lodge of Elks 1296. 3 Church St. Greenfield, MA.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5
Saturday, October 5, 10am-2pm – ANTHROPOLOGY/SOCIAL COHESION: Founded in 2001 in Denmark to promote human rights and social cohesion, the human library project seeks to create greater understanding between people and provide a safe space where we can learn more about each other and work through stereotypes and discrimination present in our community in order to ultimately to forge new connections between people. Living Books, a community-building event hosted by the Forbes Library, is modeled after this project. Living Books is made up not of actual books but of human books – human beings whose unique life experiences make up volumes and volumes of information, stored amongst a network of brain cells and synapses instead of a stack of bound pages. Check out a “living book” and have a 20-minute conversation in a safe and respectful environment that fosters empathy and understanding. If you have questions about the event, email: livingbooks@forbeslibrary.org. Forbes Library. 413-587-1011. 20 West St, Northampton, MA.
Saturday, October 5, 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 habitat through seasonal variation in what is available. Now, a new farmers’ and makers’ market in Easthampton will bring these benefits to a new area. This 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. For more information, visit the Easthampton Farmers’ Market website. 50 Payson Avenue. Easthampton, MA.
Saturday, October 5, 10am-5pm – PLACEMAKING/LOCAL CULTURE: Fantastical Fall Festival, a celebration of culture and heritage in Chicopee. This event is free and family-friendly, featuring local artists of various cultures that represent Chicopee, and many activities for families, and children. Some of the Festival activities will include: Elected officials storytelling tent, puppet making coordinated by local artisans, the Chicopee Boys and Girls Club will be hosting games for family fun, Jugglers will be teaching the art of juggling, Oops Art will be doing public art projects featuring block printmaking with symbols from various cultures. There will be a Makers tent- featuring local craftspeople, musicians and dancers from different cultures that make up Chicopee along with local food trucks. Sherman Park. 21 Vivian St, Chicopee, MA.
Saturday, October 5, 10am-6pm – LOCAL FOOD/POTATO FESTIVAL: In his 2008 book, Potato: The Propitious Esculent, John Reader suggests that the potato was responsible for changing world history. Originally cultivated in the area of Peru and Bolivia around 10,000 years ago, potatoes were introduced to Europe by the Spanish in the 16th century. In its early years, the crop was not especially popular in Europe but eventually became such an important staple that according to conservative estimates, the potato was responsible for a quarter of the population growth in Europe between 1700 and 1900. In 1845, a plant blight spread throughout Ireland and Scotland, resulting in the failure of potato crops, which largely drove the Great Irish Famine. The popularity and cultural importance of the potato continues to grow worldwide. It is the fourth largest vegetable crop in the world after wheat, rice, and corn. Potato plays a vital role in world cuisines from Peru to India to Korea. The popularity of the vegetable continues to be strongest in eastern Europe, which is the highest per capita consumer of potatoes by an enormous margin. Despite the relative popularity of potatoes in the United States, the country is not even in the top ten per capita consumer. Come celebrate the amazing potato at the Annual Potato Festival, where visitors can try a variety of potato dishes and kids can meet Mr Potato Head! Smiarowski Farmstand and Creamery. 320 River Road. Sunderland, MA.
Saturday, October 5, 1-2:30pm – ZOOLOGY/BATS: Bat Day! Amanda Melinchuk, Bat Research Monitor with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, shares her expertise and talk about the myths and misconceptions surrounding bats, why bats are important, the bats in Massachusetts, threats to bats such as White-nose Syndrome, what you can do to help bats, and information on bat houses. Followed by Q & A. Best for self-directed and lifelong learners. Great Falls Discovery Center. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6
Sunday, October 6, Dawn-Dusk – SCULPTURE/AGRICULTURE: Park Hill Orchard in Easthampton is home of “Art in the Orchard,” a biennal orchard-based gallery of outdoor sculptures and installation art to peruse with family from dawn to dusk any day of the week. Bringing “Culture into Horticulutre,” the orchard features the work of dozens of artists whose work is brought to life amongst the apple trees and changing landscape as we move from summer to fall. Park Hill Orchard. 413-527-6186. 82 Park Hill Road. Easthampton, MA.
Sunday, October 6, TBA: RURAL HERITAGE/CORN MAZE: Corn mazes are classic New England traditions that transform cornfields into community building experiences. Before we had corn mazes, corn has been a staple in the diet of countless cultures for thousands of years. Today, corn is the largest produced crop in the world, and can even be a source of adventure as played out in corn mazes. There are a few in Western MA you can check out with your family, including Mike’s Maze at Warner Farm in Sunderland Hicks Family Farm Corn Maze in Charlemont, and Meadow View Farm Corn Maze in Southwick. Many of these mazes offer a fun and challenging outdoor adventure for families of all ages, along with other activities and farm-fresh produce and perennials. Let the adventure get your kids curious about corn and it’s variety history and many uses. Educators can use this teacher-friendly guide to the evolution of maize to help get kids interested in learning more!
Sunday, October 6, 10am-6pm – LOCAL FOOD/POTATO FESTIVAL: In his 2008 book, Potato: The Propitious Esculent, John Reader suggests that the potato was responsible for changing world history. Originally cultivated in the area of Peru and Bolivia around 10,000 years ago, potatoes were introduced to Europe by the Spanish in the 16th century. In its early years, the crop was not especially popular in Europe but eventually became such an important staple that according to conservative estimates, the potato was responsible for a quarter of the population growth in Europe between 1700 and 1900. In 1845, a plant blight spread throughout Ireland and Scotland, resulting in the failure of potato crops, which largely drove the Great Irish Famine. The popularity and cultural importance of the potato continues to grow worldwide. It is the fourth largest vegetable crop in the world after wheat, rice, and corn. Potato plays a vital role in world cuisines from Peru to India to Korea. The popularity of the vegetable continues to be strongest in eastern Europe, which is the highest per capita consumer of potatoes by an enormous margin. Despite the relative popularity of potatoes in the United States, the country is not even in the top ten per capita consumer. Come celebrate the amazing potato at the Annual Potato Festival, where visitors can try a variety of potato dishes and kids can meet Mr Potato Head! Smiarowski Farmstand and Creamery. 320 River Road. Sunderland, MA.
Sunday, October 6, 11am-4pm – ARTS AND CRAFTS/SCARECROW WORKSHOP: On the Japanese island of Shikoku there is a strange little village called Nagoro, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. The village has only 35 inhabitants but over 350 scarecrows, many of which are shockingly lifelike. For years, villager Tsukimi Ayano has been making lifelike scarecrows of deceased villagers and placing them around the village in realistic poses. At a bus stop, for instance, one may see a group of huddled figures seated on a bench. In the abandoned schoolhouse, a roomful of children. Additionally, many of the scarecrows are wearing the actual clothes of the people they are meant to represent! Make your own scarecrow at Atkins Market and who knows, maybe you’ll be inspired to make an entire village full of them. Atkins Farms Country Market. 413-253-9528. 1150 West St. Amherst, MA.
Sunday, October 6, 1pm – PARADE/PLACEMAKING: The Northern Berkshire annual Fall Foliage Parade is a celebration of changing seasons, fall harvest, and community. Attending the parade is a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of New England and the Berkshires. All past grand marshals are welcome to join in the parade. The parade will commence at the Ocean State Job Lots parking lot, and conclude on Ashland Street after passing through downtown via Main Street. Fall Foliage Festival. North Adams, MA.
Sunday, October 6, 1pm: – PLACEMAKING/PARADE:Come celebrate community and the coming fall with the North Adams Annual Children’s Parade. This event is part of North Adams’ weeklong Fall Foliage Festival, featuring a wide variety of events and activities. All children from the Northern Berkshires are invited to dress up and join a themed parade! And don’t forget to check out all exciting Fall Foliage Festival events. Main Street, North Adams, MA.
Sunday, October 6, 1-3pm – CULINARY ARTS/VEGETARIAN COOKING: Vegetarian Cooking From The Heart with Leslie Cerier. How can we use more fresh local produce year-round to create healthy and delicious meals? New England has a bounty of local farms providing the freshest ingredients that naturally support our bodies as we transition from season to season. But navigating the options and turning those ingredients into tasty meals can be a real challenge. Learn from a real pro with over 30 years of experience doing just that and the playful art of mix and match with our local harvest. Create wonderful, delicious meals for health and pleasure. Tasty samples offered! Yoga Center Amherst. 413-256-0604. 17 Kellogg Ave, Amherst, MA.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 7
Monday, October 7, 1-4pm – LIVING HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES: First settled in the early 18th century, the Connecticut River Valley is rich in colonial history. The Porter-Phelps-Huntington House Museum gives guests a look into the evolution of the region over 250 years, through the history of one family. Learn about how momentous historical events such as the Revolutionary War, the abolition of slavery, and the women’s rights movement impacted the lives of ordinary people in our region. Spend the afternoon visiting this local treasure! Guided tours available Porter-Phelps-Huntington House Museum. 413-584-4699.130 River Drive, Hadley, MA.
Monday, October 7, 6:30-8pm – PARENTING SUPPORT/ADHD: Northampton Area Pediatrics host a monthly Valley ADHD Parent Support Group. Join other area parents and caregivers to: Receive ADHD information and support; Be heard without being judged; Hear how others cope with similar issues and challenges; Learn about local resources for families; Hear from area specialists on pertinent topics; Learn new strategies to try at home; Leave feeling empowered and hopeful. Light refreshments will be available. ValleyADHDfamilies@gmail.com. Northampton Area Pediatrics. 413-584-8700193. Locust St., Northampton, MA
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8
Tuesday October 8, 10am-4pm – BOTANY: The Durfee Conservatory, located on the University of Massachusetts Amherst campus and established in 1867, has a rich history. Tucked away in a hustling and bustling campus of over 25,000 students, this greenhouse complex is a sanctuary of calm and serenity. Greenhouses include Bonsai-Camellia, Epiphyte/Vine, Tropical, and Succulents. Durfee Conservatory. 413-545-5234. 210 Stockbridge Road. Amherst, MA.
Tuesday October 8, All Day – SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING/HERBARIUMS: Wondering what an herbarium is? Herbariums are collections of preserved plants and are fun ways for families to preserve summer memories while supporting an interest in botany and local habitats. Learn more about whys you can engage in this activity with your family in our post, Pressing Plants and Flowers Supports Nature-Based Learning through the Generations. — Want to dive deeper? In the video, What in the World is an Herbarium, tour the New York Botanical Garden for a glimpse into one of the world’s largest herbaria, a collection that contains millions of specimens.
Tuesday October 8, 6pm – ENTOMOLOGY/ BEEKEEPING: Join local beekeepers for a season-appropriate discussion and demonstration using the Berkshire Botanical Garden apiary. Focus on sustainable beekeeping techniques: raising and sourcing bees locally, managing pests and diseases ecologically, and creating beneficial habitats for honeybees and native pollinators alike. New to beekeeping? Learn how to get started with your first hives. Are you a seasoned beekeeper? Your experience and knowledge will be invaluable to others in the group! 413-357-4657. Berkshire Botanical Garden. 5 West Stockbridge Road, Stockbridge, MA.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9
Wednesday, October 9, 9am-8pm – SELF-GUIDED HIKE/GEOLOGY: In the 19th-century, outdoor recreation became a popular leisure activity. Summit houses, such as the one atop Mount Holyoke at Skinner State Park, were constructed to accommodate tourists traveling to see mountain views. An interest in the wild landscape and sweeping view of countryside inspired many Americans to explore the natural landscape and value spending time outside. Many writers and artists looked to nature as a creative muse for poetry and painting. Walking through the woods became a pleasurable and meaningful pastime. Contemporary self-guided geology walks are another way to explore this local treasure, with map in hand! Skinner State Park. 413-586-0350. 10 Skinner State Park Road, Hadley, MA.
Wednesday, October 9, 3:30-4:15pm – LANGUAGE ARTS/WRITING CLUB: Are you an aspiring writer? Join the Forbes Library in their Children’s Department for their monthly Writing Club. They’ll warm up with a few writing prompts, have some snacks, and get writing! If you feel comfortable sharing your work, we’ll have time for that at the end of the meeting. Feel free to bring writing projects you’re currently working on! For writers ages 8 and up. Forbes Library. 413-587-1011. 20 West St, Northampton, MA.
Wednesday, October 9, All Day – CULINARY ARTS/PUMPKIN PIE: There are so many different uses for pumpkins! One of America’s oldest native crops, modern day uses include carving as ornaments for Halloween, prepared as pies, and highlighted as the main attraction in agricultural fairs (largest pumpkin contests) and fall festivals (pumpkin roll & pumpkin games). Needless to say, pumpkins are an integrated part of our fall traditions in Western MA. Self-directed and lifelong learners can find out how pumpkin can support an interest in pastry arts and Colonial History through seasonal pies in our post, How Pumpkin Pies Support Interests & Education.
Wednesday, October 9, All Day – HISTORY WALK/SELF-DIRECTED: Have you ever walked, biked, or driven through downtown Holyoke and wondered about the history of the city’s numerous old buildings? Each empty mill, towering church, and brick rowhouse tells a story of the city’s past. An exploration of Holyoke’s history reveals a vibrant, diverse, and complicated history. Visitors to Holyoke can now learn about the city’s history themselves – from home or while exploring the city’s streets thanks to the Wistariahurst Museum. The Museum hosts a large online community resource to its repertoire- the Holyoke History Walk, available on the museum’s website, offering a comparative look at the city and many of its streets and buildings as they once were (up to 125 years ago). The program uses Google Maps and provides a map – created by piecing together numerous maps from the museum’s archives – of Holyoke past, layered above a map of Holyoke present. Scattered across the map are over 100 of the city’s landmarks – churches, civic buildings, prominent businesses, and views across the canal, from hilltops, and down various streets in the busiest parts of town. The old photos are shown next to a current image of the location. In some cases, the buildings are unrecognizable; in others, entire blocks are boarded up; meanwhile, some others remain relatively unchanged. Families can use the interactive tour to learn all about local history and can apply what they learn about the city to bring context and more in-depth understanding to American history and changes in industries, technology, and the American way of life. Holyoke, MA.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10
Thursday, October 10, Dawn-Dusk – SCULPTURE/AGRICULTURE: Park Hill Orchard in Easthampton is home of “Art in the Orchard,” a biennal orchard-based gallery of outdoor sculptures and installation art to peruse with family from dawn to dusk any day of the week. Bringing “Culture into Horticulutre,” the orchard features the work of dozens of artists whose work is brought to life amongst the apple trees and changing landscape as we move from summer to fall. Park Hill Orchard. 413-527-6186. 82 Park Hill Road. Easthampton, MA.
Thursday, October 10, All Day – SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING/BOTANICAL ILLUSTRATION: Taking a class with an artist that specializes in botanical illustration provides the scientific and artistic instruction needed to learn how to create botanical drawings. Botanical illustrations are not just limited to painting flowers, but also include sketching trees and other plant specimens. Not only is botanical illustration a creative outlet, but also a scientific one that lets you explore a plant species at an observational and focused level! The American Society of Botanical Illustrators provides different resources and tools to help students locate classes in their area or informational books on doing an individual study of botanical illustration. Gardens and wayside growing flowers offer an opportunity to engage with the landscape through art, literature, and community. Whether it’s botanical watercolors, illustrations, photography, or a relaxed visit to your local public garden, flowers blooming in a community support interests and connect residents to their public parks and the patterns of the seasons.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11
Friday, October 11, 10:30-11:30am – ANIMAL STUDIES/SQUIRRELS: Kidleidoscope Story Hour. Come learn about our wildlife neighbors who share our home in the Connecticut River Watershed. The program includes a story, interactive games, and a craft to introduce young children to wildlife along the river. For ages 3-6, accompanied by an adult. Siblings and friends welcome. Great Falls Discovery Center. 413-863-3221. 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA.
Friday, October 11, 4:30: SURREALISM/EXPERIENTIAL THEATER: Folklorists have argued that the medieval British custom of the Lord of Misrule dates back to ancient Rome, where the Saturnalia, or Winter Solstice, involved choosing a man to rule as king for thirty days. At the end of the thirty days, on the Solstice eve, the man would be sacrificed upon an altar to Saturn, the Roman god of renewal, wealth, and fertility. Anthropologist James Frazer demonstrated that these rituals, which persisted throughout Europe until the so-called Enlightenment in the 16th and 17th centuries, symbolically celebrated the passing of the seasons, the transition from darkness into light, and from death into life. The trope of the sacrificial king globally appears in folklore and is generally linked to agriculture and the concept of the sacrifice of the individual for the good of the community. While more recent customs around the Lord of Misrule seem not to have included the element of ritual death, the figure eventually evolved into mummery shows, in which community members dressed in costumes, took on the roles of gods and heroes, and enacted myths and legends. Many of these shows continue to revolve around a murder, in this case symbolic, to mark the passage of the seasons and other transitions. Evoking the mummery show aesthetics and earth-based spiritual philosophy, the Royal Frog Ballet’s Surrealist Cabaret leads audiences on an enchanted dream journey through the field and wood, conjuring images of death and rebirth, land and spirit. This is an absolutely one of a kind show, and it is not to be missed. You will remember this experience for the rest of your life. Park Hill Orchard. 413-527-6186. 82 Park Hill Road. Easthampton, MA.
Friday, October 11, 5-8pm – PERFORMANCE ART: October Arts Fest, an open mic/open floor fundraiser during Arts Night Out at the Center for the Arts. Bring your poetry, short plays, monologues, music, dance, and comedy to perform (5 min or less). This event is free and open to the public. Wine and snacks will be served. To sign up for the open mic or to donate artwork or services to the raffle, email ncfa@nohoarts.org. Northampton Center for the Arts. 413-584-7327. 33 Hawley Street, Northampton, MA.
Friday, October 11, 6pm – ART STUDIES/FIGURE DRAWING: Are you a lifelong learner looking to sharpen your skills as an artist? Figure drawing gets right down to the fundamentals of art. Figure Drawing Fridays has a nice little studio close to downtown Northampton and opens every Friday night at 6 (drawing at 6:30) for three hours of arty fun in an open and light atmosphere. There will be music playing, people chatting and of course, sketching and painting (no oils please). BYOB and bring your own media. Model and easels provided. RSVP is requested if you want an easel as space is limited. There is NO INSTRUCTOR (except for special nights) at this event although plenty of friendly peer review. Northampton, MA. ($)
Hilltown Families’ list of Suggested Events is supported in part by grants from the Bernardston, Chester, Heath, Montgomery, Pelham, Rowe, South Hadley, Amherst, Hatfield, Russell, Shutesbury, and Springfield Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
