Weekly Suggested Events for March 19-25, 2022

Home > Suggested Events > Weekly Suggested Events for March 19-25, 2022
The impermanence of winter and its long cold nights is made evident with the change of seasons towards the welcoming arms of summer through these micro-seasons of spring. This week, discover maple events that celebrate the year's first harvest, high school musicals, spring equinox, vernal pools, and much more in western Massachusetts!

Are you looking for things to do in western Massachusetts? Seeking place-based learning ideas? Are you a self-directed, life-long, and/or experiential learner? Are you curious or wanting to support the interests of your family? Our weekly Suggested Events list includes suggested learning ideas, resources, and fun events for all ages, each week!

Scroll down to discover featured events, learning opportunities, and educational videos to support learning from home. And be sure to subscribe to our free weekly eNewsletter so you never miss out!

COMMUNITY-BASED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Hilltown Families’ annual Summer Directory is the region’s go-to online resource for families looking for summer camps, programs, and opportunities in western Massachusetts and neighboring areas! ♦ New listings are added each week, so check back often and be sure to subscribe to our weekly eNewsletter!

Hilltown CDC (HCDC) seeks to improve the quality of life for Hilltown residents by addressing economic, housing, education, social, & community needs while preserving the rural character of the area. Thanks to a generous grant from the MGCC, the HCDC offers FREE, confidential business assistance to Hilltown residents! If you’re thinking of starting or growing your business, HCDC can help. They have experts in various areas who can help entrepreneurs get on their feet, including website help, social media marketing, business tax & accounting, legal assistance, & more. Sign up for free virtual classes: hilltowndirectory.com/events. For more info, contact HCDC Economic Development Director Michele Kenney: MicheleK@Hilltowncdc.org; 413-354-1055

FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Adventures in Music with
Berkshire Music School

Pittsfield, MA

Adventures in Music with 
Berkshire Music School
Outdoors. Indoors.

Play outside this summer! Designed for young music lovers ages 5-9, Adventures in Music gives your budding musician a solid foundation in making music in a fun, engaging atmosphere. Participants will enjoy group classes in introduction to music, chorus, creative movement, and puppetry on the tented lawn of Berkshire Music School’s historic campus, as well as small group workshops in piano, drama, visual arts, and more! Monday-Friday 10am-4pm. Mini Session: June 27-July 1, Session 1: July 11-22, Session 2: July 25-August 5. Dates: June 27-Aug 5, 2022. Age Range: 5-9yo. Contact: 413-442-1411; cpearson@berkshiremusicschool.org; www.BerkshireMusicSchool.org

FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Hilltown Sleddogs “Sled Dog” Camps
West Chesterfield, MA

Photograph of sled dogs with text and graphic overlay for Hilltown Sleddogs summer camps.
Outdoors.

Dates: July 5-August 26, 2022. Age Range: 8-16yo. Contact: 413-296-0187
♦ hilltownsleddogs@gmail.com
♦ www.hilltownsleddogs.com/camps

Learn to take care of & exercise a world-class athlete – the Alaskan Husky Sled Dog. Choose a dog for the week. Learn to feed, pet, play, clean-up after & train a sled dog. Ride a racing rig, scooter, bike, hike, jog & swim – some of the warm weather activities dogs & campers love to do together. All have fun bonding, playing & mushing with the team! “My daughter loved the week-long camp, really bonded with her dog and plans to return next year. Hilltown Sleddogs is one of Pioneer Valleys’ unique treasures!”(JG) “The hands-on connection with dogs is amazing. At the end of the week, my boys don’t want to come home.” (EM) *New Bonfire/BBQ eve last night Week 4 & Gals Only Week 5, all ages! Successful Covid Safety Protocol continues for 2022.

FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Miss Leticia Music Summer Camp
and Songwriting Camp

Amherst, MA

Miss Leticia Music Summer Camp
and Songwriting Camp
Outdoors. Indoors.

Miss Leticia Music Summer Camp and Songwriting Camp offers three levels of instruction for three weeks in July, with a beginning group (guitar, ukulele, bass, drums), intermediate, and advanced Rock Band. Week 1: Beginner group, Interm & Adv Rock band- Radio Hits July 11-15, 9-3pm; Week 2: Beginner group, Interm & Adv Rock Band- Rock Week, July 18-22, 9-3pm; Week 3 Songwriting/Recording Camp: July 25-29 Mon – Thurs 9-4pm, Friday 9-6pm.

Dates: July 11-29, 2022. Age Range: 6-16yo. Contact: 413-246-7338
 missleticia@missleticia.com
 www.missleticia.com

FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Amherst Recreation Summer Day Camps

Amherst Recreation Summer Day Camps
Indoors. Outdoors.

Spend the summer with Amherst Recreation! At Amherst Recreation Summer Programs, children will have the opportunity to participate in sports clinics, arts, science, crafts, games, nature activities, swimming lessons, and more. Their caring and experienced staff will make this a summer to remember. Learn more and browse all of their exciting programs on the Amherst Recreation website.

Dates: July 27-August 12, 2022. Age Range: 5-11yo. Contact: 413-259-3065
♦ rec@amherstma.gov
♦ www.amherstma.gov

FEATURED SUMMER PROGRAM
Summer at The Academy at Charlemont
Charlemont, MA

Summer at The Academy at Charlemont
Outdoors.

Academy Summer Programs tap into The Academy’s artistic, outdoor, and academic communities by enabling students to explore areas of interest in a safe, in-person, outdoor environment. Offerings are week-long, half or full day for rising 4th-10th graders.

Dates: July 29-August 5, 2022. Age Range: 9-16yo. Contact: 413-339-4912
♦ summer@charlemont.org
♦  www.charlemont.org/2022-summer-programs

FEATURED PRESCHOOL
Prelude Preschool of the Arts
Springfield, MA

Prelude Preschool of the Arts
Ages 2.9-5 years

Prelude Preschool of the Arts is now enrolling for summer and fall 2022! Full-day & half-day programming options feature specialized classes taught by expert musicians & artists in the areas of early childhood music, dance, yoga, Suzuki violin, bucket drumming, and visual art. Prelude Preschool’s arts-centered curriculum fosters creativity and a lifelong love for learning while supporting students’ social-emotional development. Flexible before & aftercare is available to meet your scheduling needs, and regularly scheduled family nights facilitate connection & collaboration among students, their families, and their teachers. To learn more or schedule your tour: 
prelude@communitymusicschool.com; 413-750-9560; communitymusicschool.com/prelude

FEATURED SCHOOL
Amherst Montessori School
Amherst, MA

Amherst Montessori School
Ages 3mo-12yrs

Amherst Montessori School believes your child is inherently intelligent and that hands-on learning is critical to their developing brains. In mixed-age classrooms, your child is empowered to explore, discover, and learn through all five senses. In a beautiful new building designed uniquely for children, classrooms are filled with sunlight, natural materials, and views outside to playgrounds. Trained Montessori teachers nurture each child’s innate curiosity and independence. For more information: 413-253-3101; kedreich@amherstmontessori.org; amherstmontessori.org.

The Academy at Charlemont is a community-oriented independent day school for grades 6-12. For 40 years, Academy students have become engaged learners and articulate leaders through small classes, rigorous coursework, diverse electives in the arts and beyond, inclusive athletics, personalized advising, and student leadership. Learn more about The Academy at a Virtual Info Session on Tues, March 29 (7-8pm), and join them for a personalized visit day. Generous financial aid and daily round-trip bus service from Amherst, Northampton, and the Hilltowns are available. Rolling admission for select grade levels is now open. Ready to learn more about The Academy family for your family? Find details and Info Session registration at www.charlemont.org.

See Your Ad Here

Partner with HIlltown Families!

Partner with Hilltown Families in your online advertising! Delivering your message each week to over 25,000 subscribers, web visitors, and social media followers each week, Hilltown Families can bring your message to thousands of families in Western Massachusetts. Serving the region since 2005, Hilltown Families is an award-winning, online communication network, recognized as a leading family strengthening initiative in the region, promoting “positive parenting through the social norm of community social connectedness.” A trusted partner in your online marketing! To find out how we can partner together in your online marketing and outreach, contact us for info on our affordable options and packages: swildfield@hilltownfamilies.org. Have an event, resource, or opportunity you’re ready to promote? Click HERE to submit your information.

2022 Class Directory

Class Directory

Discover virtual & adapted programming in our Class Directory for Western MA

2022 Preschool & Daycare Directory

Preschool Directory

Find what you’re looking for in our Preschool & Daycare Directory for Western MA

List of Weekly Suggested Events

SATURDAY, MARCH 19, 2022

MAPLE SYRUP/ COMMUNITY MEAL. 8am-1pm. Pancake Breakfast at Holiday Brook Farm. Give them a call and bring your appetite for freshly made, local maple syrup! 413-684-0444. 100 Holiday Cottage Road. Dalton, MA. 

FAMILY RADIO: 9-10am. Hilltown Family Variety Show. WXOJ 103.3FM Northampton, MA. (Radio)  

INTERGENERATIONAL/ COMMUNITY CELEBRATION. 9am-4pm. FUN DAY 2022 – A full day of kid-friendly fun! Egg Hunt, hidden prizes, and fun games at Otis Ridge Ski Area. 413-269-4444. 159 Monterey Rd, Otis, MA. 

PLANT STUDIES/ DENDROLOGY. 10am. Trees through the Seasons at Lynes Woods – Meandering trail past small fields and stone walls and through a forest that has grown up in the years since farming ceased. Enjoy the beauty of a crystal clear stream and a walk through quiet woods while identifying the common tree species and how the trees are getting ready for spring. Lynes Woods Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-584-3009. Edwards Rd, Westhampton, MA. 

INTERGENERATIONAL/ BOARD GAMES. 10am. Boardgames at the Meekins Library. 413-268-7472. 2 Williams St, Williamsburg, MA. 

ART STUDIES/ COLLAGE. 10am-12pm. Art Class: Tissue Paper Botanical Collage – This workshop for ages 17+ is perfect for anyone who wants a step-by-step guide to creating a vibrant, unique collage. No prior experience is necessary. Mill District Local Art Gallery. 413-835-0966. 91 Cowls Rd., Amherst, MA. 

CULINARY ARTS/ ITALIAN. 10am-1pm. Fun With Fio: Filming and Tasting – Join Fiore Grassetti while filming an episode of the “Fun With Fio” show. Fio will be giving samples of all of his innovative culinary creations. Italian Cultural Center of Western Mass. 413-784-1492. 56 Margaret St., Springfield, MA. 

BOTANY/ SEED SWAP. 10am-1pm. The growing season is upon us, time to plant some seeds, provided by Grow Food Northampton. Pick up at the Winter Farmers Market located at the Northampton Senior Center. 67 Conz St, Northampton, MA. 

LOCAL FOOD/FARMERS’ MARKET. 10am-2pm. Grow Food Northampton Winter Market – Stock up on local goods- Fresh produce, prepared foods, honey, maple products, herbal remedies, crafts, soap, and more! Held at the Northampton Senior Center. 67 Conz St, Northampton, MA. 

LOCAL FOOD/FARMERS’ MARKET. 10am-2pm. Berkshire Grown Winter Farmers Market – Berkshire Grown’s indoor Winter Farmers Markets feature locally grown and produced foods, including fruits and vegetables, cheese, meats, bread, and more. Held at Housy Dome, 1064 Main Street, Housatonic, MA. 

LOCAL FOOD/FARMERS’ MARKET. 10am-2pm. Holyoke Winter Farmers’ Market offers a variety of produce, crafts, and non-profit services. Nuestro Mercado de Agricultores ofrece una variedad de productos, artesanías, y servicios de sin-fines de lucro. 310 Appleton St, Holyoke, MA. 

MAPLE SYRUP. 10am-4pm. Maple Weekend at Harris Mtn. Sugar Shack. 145 Harris St, Granby, MA. 

ROLLER SKATING. 11am-12pm. Learn to roller skate at Interskate 91. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street, Hampshire Mall, Hadley, MA.

 

ART STUDIES/ FILM STUDIES: 12:30pm. Exhibition on Screen: Frida Kahlo – Who was Frida Kahlo? Who was the woman behind the bright colors, the big brows, and the floral crowns? Take a journey through the life of a true icon, discover her art, and uncover the truth behind her often turbulent life. Amherst Cinema. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity St, Amherst, MA. 

MAPLE SYRUP. 1-4pm. Ferrindino Maple Open House for Maple Weekend! 413-519-9945. 284 Glendale Rd, Hampden, MA. 

ARTISAN SKILLS/ FELTING. 1-4pm. Felted Bowl Workshop – Learn basic wet felting techniques at Wool-ology. 413-350-5158. 242A Greenfield Rd. South Deerfield, MA. 

ART STUDIES/ WATERCOLOR. 1pm. Art Class: Watercolor Sunset Landscape – This workshop is perfect for anyone ages 17+ who wants a step-by-step guide to painting a beautiful watercolor landscape of trees at sunset. No prior experience is necessary. Mill District Local Art Gallery. 413-835-0966. 91 Cowls Rd., Amherst, MA. 

THEATER STUDIES/ HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL. 2pm & 7pm. Northampton High School presents Mamma Mia!, featuring a live pit orchestra and a cast of more than 50 NHS students. Northampton High School. 380 Elm Street. Northampton, MA 

LIVING HISTORY. 4:30-9pm. Night in the Museum: Evening Investigation – Start the evening with a hot catered dinner before traveling back in time for a candlelit adventure through the 1830s. The quest will exercise detective skills by hunting for clues, conducting experiments, and investigating the past. Back at Investigation Headquarters, participants will experiment with historic crafts to learn more about 19th-century life. Old Sturbridge Village. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA. 

ORNITHOLOGY. 6:30pm. Dance of the American Woodcock – Spring is when male American Woodcocks present a unique aerial courtship dance to attract a female. This spring ritual happens in fields just after sunset. Hosted by Mass Audubon Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary at Park Hill Orchard. Easthampton, MA. 

THEATER STUDIES/ MUSICAL. 7pm. The smash-hit movie musical, High School Musical, comes to life on Frontier Regional’s stage! Troy, Gabriella, and the students of East High must deal with issues of first love, friends, and family while balancing their classes and extracurricular activities. Disney’s High School Musical is fun for the whole family. Frontier Regional School. 413-665-2118. 113 N Main St, South Deerfield, MA. 

THEATER STUDIES. 8pm. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time with Exit 7Players Theater. 413-583-4301. 37 Chestnut St, Ludlow, MA. 

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Self-Directed Learning: Textile Arts/Quilts

Often, math and art are seen as opposites: structure and the lack thereof. However, at the intersection of the two lies quilting: an inherently mathematical art form. The third Saturday in March is recognized as National Quilting Day. Let it be your catalyst for learning! Families can explore everything from shape identification to tessellations by learning to create quilts together! Read more in our post, Quilting Offers Multidisciplinary Exploration of Math and Art.

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SUNDAY, MARCH 20, 2022

VERNAL EQUINOX/ASTRONOMY: 6:45am & 6pm. Spring has sprung! The vernal equinox, the first full day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, is a good time to learn about astronomical concepts such as the seasonal positions of the Earth, Sun, and Moon. The public is invited to view sunrise and sunset from the standing stones of the UMass Amherst Sunwheel. A UMass Amherst astronomer will be present discussing the significance of the solstices and equinoxes, phases of the moon, the building of the Sunwheel, and other calendar sites such as the Karnak Temple in Egypt, Stonehenge in the U.K, Chichen Itza in Mexico, and Chankillo in Peru. UMass Sunwheel. Rocky Hill Road, south of McGuirk Alumni Stadium. Amherst, MA. 

FAMILY RADIO: 7-8am. Hilltown Family Variety Show. WXOJ 103.3FM Northampton, MA. (Radio)  

MAPLE SYRUP/ COMMUNITY MEAL. 8am-1pm. Pancake Breakfast at Holiday Brook Farm. Give them a call and bring your appetite for freshly made, local maple syrup! 413-684-0444. 100 Holiday Cottage Road. Dalton, MA. 

MAPLE SYRUP. 10am-4pm. Maple Weekend at Harris Mtn. Sugar Shack. 145 Harris St, Granby, MA. 

ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory – An 8000 square-foot tropical conservatory with nearly 4000 free-flying tropical and native butterflies from all over the world. Learn about butterflies along with exotic reptiles, frogs, fish, birds, and insects! Ask about their guided tours. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA.  

PARADE/ ST. PATRICK’S DAY. 11am. Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Holyoke, MA. 

MINDFULNESS/ HIKE. 1pm. Mountain Mindfulness: Spring Equinox Walk – Experience the expansive feeling of forest rebirth and new growth while celebrating the Spring Equinox. Mount Greylock Visitor Center. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA. 

SEED SWAP. 1-4pm. 15th Annual “Cabin Fever” Seed Swap – Seeds! Let’s swap them! Bring saved seeds, extra seeds, and whatever gardening-related items you’d like to share. Seedlings? Sure! Tools or books or compost? Why not? And as always, bring your excitement, curiosity, knowledge, and questions. Novices and beginners are welcome! Held at Just Roots/Greenfield Community Farm. 34 Glenbrook Dr, Greenfield, MA. 

ROLLER SKATING. 1-5pm. Interskate 91. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street, Hampshire Mall, Hadley, MA. 

THEATER STUDIES. 2pm. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time with Exit 7Players Theater. 413-583-4301. 37 Chestnut St, Ludlow, MA.  

THEATER STUDIES/ MUSICAL. 2pm. The smash-hit movie musical, High School Musical, comes to life on Frontier Regional’s stage! Troy, Gabriella, and the students of East High must deal with issues of first love, friends, and family while balancing their classes and extracurricular activities. Disney’s High School Musical is fun for the whole family. Frontier Regional School. 413-665-2118. 113 N Main St, South Deerfield, MA. 

VERNAL EQUINOX/ASTRONOMY: 6pm. UMass Sunwheel. Rocky Hill Road, south of McGuirk Alumni Stadium. Amherst, MA. 

PERFORMANCE ART. 6pm. Bread & Puppet’s performance of Finished Waiting is a show for this moment of political, social, ecological, and epidemiological rupture and uncertainty. Northampton Community Arts Trust. 33 Hawley Street. Northampton, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: Spring Equinox

In the Northern Hemisphere, the spring equinox falls on March 20 or 21, depending on when the Sun crosses the celestial equator. As we spend the month of March wishing away the snow and scouring the local landscape for the first signs of spring, we often forget to prepare ourselves for the most accurate sign of spring there is … the vernal equinox! Marking the first official day of spring, the vernal equinox is when the Sun is located directly over the Earth’s equator. Along with a shadow-less noontime around the equator, the equinox brings six months of darkness to the south pole and six months of a perpetually visible sun to the north pole. Read more in our post, Celebrate & Learn about the Vernal Equinox at UMass Sunwheel.

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Self-Directed Learning: Poetry

Western Massachusetts has been home to many poets and writers inspired by this region’s remarkable landscapes and natural settings. Since today is National Poetry Day, the spring season is a great time to explore some of the local poets’ homes and writing places from the past. Read more in our post, Poetry & Place in the Hilltowns, and check out our archived column, One Clover & A Bee: Poems for Families to Learn & Love, for more encouragement that supports love for poetry in our children and ourselves.

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TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2022

PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley 

PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County  

BOTANY. 9am-4pm. There is much to see at the Smith College Botanic Garden. You can spend many hours exploring the Lyman Plant House exhibitions, the Lyman Conservatory plant collections, the Campus Arboretum, and Campus Gardens. The Botanic Garden of Smith College. 413-585-2740. 16 College Lane. Northampton MA.

PLAYGROUP. 10-11:30am. Otis Explore & Play. Join South Berkshire Kids or this caregiver/child program. Activities will include free play, crafts, stories, and songs. No registration is required. Masks will be required, except for children under 2. Held at the Otis Town Hall. Otis, MA. 

ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory – An 8000 square-foot tropical conservatory with nearly 4000 free-flying tropical and native butterflies from all over the world. Learn about butterflies along with exotic reptiles, frogs, fish, birds, and insects! Ask about their guided tours. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA.  

MUSIC PROGRAM/ PreK. 10:30am. Sing With Me preschool music program, hosted by the Hubbard Memorial Library. (Virtual) 

PLAYGROUP. 10:30-11:30am. For ages 0-5 at the Edwards Public Library. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 30 East Street, Southampton, MA. 

ART STUDIES. 11am. Reflections: Introspective Gallery Talk – Engage with Clark’s collection through the lens of current events and personal interpretation in this series of introspective discussions focused on one or two objects in the galleries. Discover how works of art can help us process our own experience and how our experience can help us understand works of art. Clark Art Institute. 413-458-2303. 225 South St., Williamstown, MA. 

STE(A)M/ PreK. 1pm. Pre-School STEAM Program. Learn how to inspire your kids to engineer, create, design, explore, and build at home. Becket Athenaeum. 413-623-5483. 3367 Main St, Becket, MA. 

ENGINEERING/ LEGOS. 3-4:30pm.  At the Berkshire Athenaeum. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, MA. 

PLAYGROUP. 3:30-4:30pm. For ages 0-5 at the Westhampton Public Library. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 1 N Rd, Westhampton, MA.

ROLLER SKATING. 5-8pm. Interskate 91. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street, Hampshire Mall, Hadley, MA. 

CULINARY ARTS. 6:30pm. Cookbook Club: Soup & Bread at the Southwick Public Library. 413-569-1221. 95 Feeding Hills Road. Southwick, MA. 

BOTANY/ SCIENCE. 7pm. Adaptation (Science on Screen) – Separating fact from fiction around ADAPTATION’s ghost orchid, Charlie Kaufman’s screenplay for ADAPTATION takes ample liberty in adapting Susan Orlean’s non-fiction book The Orchid Thief, creating wild fictions—both biographical and botanical. Plant scientist Tim Johnson, who studied the real ghost orchid in Florida, sets the record straight about the flowers that play a central role in the film. Tim Johnson, Director of the Botanic Garden at Smith College, joins the Amherst Cinema to introduce the film as part of the 2022 National Evening of Science on Screen®. Amherst Cinema. 413-253-2547. 28 Amity St, Amherst, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: Vernal Pools

Like autumn, spring is a time of transition as habitats and animals begin to respond to the change in weather and climate. Phenology-based activities coincide with the natural changing of our seasons (our ultimate accessible community-based educational resource) and are great catalysts for learning through community engagement. Maple syrup season, filled with delicious community activities and opportunities, is our first harvest of the year, followed by another seasonal event as winter transitions into spring. Vernal Pools! Studies of vernal pools support learning in many areas of interest, and a close look at amphibian reproduction can help spark children’s curiosity about other aspects of amphibian life. Read more in our post, Learning Ahead: Spring Landscape & Vernal Pools.

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23, 2022

PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley 

PLAYGROUPSSouth Berkshire County. 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County. 

PLAYGROUP. 9:30am. Grow, Play & Learn Group. Join Pathways for Parents CFCE for Grow Play Learn on Zoom. This program is geared for 4-5-year-old children with a caregiver. This group will include a storytime curriculum, activities, and the Ages and Stages Questionnaire. A set of books (one per family) will be provided and picked up in the Discovery Room. Hosted by the Storrs Library. (Virtual) 

BOTANY. 9am-4pm. There is much to see at the Smith College Botanic Garden. You can spend many hours exploring the Lyman Plant House exhibitions, the Lyman Conservatory plant collections, the Campus Arboretum, and Campus Gardens. The Botanic Garden of Smith College. 413-585-2740. 16 College Lane. Northampton MA.

LITERACY/ STORYTIME. 10am. Storytime with the Montague Center Library. (Virtual)

PLAYGROUP. 10-11am. For ages 0-5 at St. Philip’s Church Parish Hall. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 126 Main St., Easthampton, MA. 

ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory – An 8000 square-foot tropical conservatory with nearly 4000 free-flying tropical and native butterflies from all over the world. Learn about butterflies along with exotic reptiles, frogs, fish, birds, and insects! Ask about their guided tours. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA. 

LITERACY/ STORYTIME. 10:30am. Storytime at the Westhampton Public Library. 413-527-5386. 1 N Rd, Westhampton, MA.  

STORYTIME & CRAFT. 10:30am.Storytime at the Becket Athenaeum. 413-623-5483. 3367 Main St, Becket, MA. 

NEW PARENT GROUP. 10:30am & 1pm. Beyond Birth groups meet weekly. New babies birth-6mos are at 1pm and older babies 6mos-1 yr are at 10:30am. Amherst, MA. 

SUGAR ART. 2:30-4pm. Make candy sushi in the YA department at the Berkshire Athenaeum. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, MA. 

PLAYGROUP. 3:30-4:30pm. For ages 0-5 at Goshen Town Hall. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 42 Main St., Goshen, MA. 

 

PLAYGROUP. 4pm. At the Berkshire Athenaeum. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, MA. 

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Self-Directed Learning: Impermanence

Just before the moment arrives when the memory of cold river plunges on hot summer days becomes faded and difficult to place, the sap begins to run, the snow starts to melt, the vernal pools reemerge, and the spring peepers advertise their arrival with their ear-piercing choruses. The impermanence of winter and its long cold nights is made evident with the change of seasons towards the welcoming arms of summer through these micro-seasons of spring. Memories of the past are alive within every one of us. Experiences become memories, propelling us towards the future, moment by moment. Our perceptions draw the line between all three, defining what is past, what is present, and what is future. Our only hope is to let go of our preconceived notions of what should be and embrace what is. Within the letting go, we may find relief, openness, and forgiveness in a forever-changing world. Welcome, Spring!

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THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2022

PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley 

PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County  

BOTANY. 9am-4pm. There is much to see at the Smith College Botanic Garden. You can spend many hours exploring the Lyman Plant House exhibitions, the Lyman Conservatory plant collections, the Campus Arboretum, and Campus Gardens. The Botanic Garden of Smith College. 413-585-2740. 16 College Lane. Northampton MA.

PLAYGROUP. 10am. At the Berkshire Athenaeum. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, MA. 

PLAYGROUP. 10am. Join South Berkshire Kids for a parent-child program that will include free play, storytime, songs, and more. Best for families with children 0-5yo. No registration is required; however, masks are. Monterey Public Library. 413-528-3795. 452 Main Rd, Monterey, MA. 

PLAYGROUP. 10am. Join South Berkshire Kids for a virtual playgroup. This program is full of music and movement! Be sure to register for a Zoom link and get up with the kids to move and sing during the winter months. (Virtual) 

MUSIC STUDIES/ PreK. 10am. Join local libraries for a virtual music time with Little Roots. (Virtual) 

PLAYGROUP. 10-11am. For ages 0-5 at St. Philip’s Church Parish Hall. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 126 Main St., Easthampton, MA. 

ANIMAL STUDIES/ SCATOLOGY. 10am Scoop on Poop! – Did you know that poop tells the story of where a creature has been? Become a student of scatology by exploring the how and why of poop, the science of poop, and what you can learn from what an animal leaves behind! Recommended ages 6-12. Hosted by the Springfield Museums. (Virtual) 

ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory – An 8000 square-foot tropical conservatory with nearly 4000 free-flying tropical and native butterflies from all over the world. Learn about butterflies along with exotic reptiles, frogs, fish, birds, and insects! Ask about their guided tours. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA. 

NEW PARENT GROUP. 10:30am & 1pm. Beyond Birth groups meet weekly in Northampton (Thurs) and Amherst (Wed)! New babies birth-6 mos are at 1pm and older babies 6 mos to 1 year are at 10:30am. Northampton & Amherst, MA. 

ARTS & CRAFTS. 11am & 2pm. Crafts at Amelia Park Children’s Museum. 413-572-4014. 29 S Broad St, Westfield, MA. 

 

WOMEN’S HISTORY. 3:30pm. Women in history poster-making at the Berkshire Athenaeum. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, MA. 

TEENS/ CRAFTS. 3:30pm. Teen Craft Night: Perler Beads. Westfield Athenaeum. 413-568-7833. 6 Elm Street, Westfield, MA. 

FOLK TOYS/ PLAY. 5pm. Kendama Club with the Pioneer Valley Movement Collective at Pulaski Park in Northampton, MA.

TEENS/ CRAFTS. 5:30pm. Paint Your Own Pottery Mug! (Age 12+) – Create a unique and personal masterpiece to give as a gift or enjoy for years to come. No experience or artistic skill is necessary to enjoy this fun paint-your-own pottery class! LaunchSpace. 978-633-5131. 131 W Main St Suite 342, Orange, MA. 

INTERGENERATIONAL/ GAMES. 6pm. Corn Hole at the Williamsburg Grange. 413-340-1313. 10 Main Street. Williamsburg, MA. 

 

ROLLER SKATING. 7-9:30pm. Interskate 91. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street, Hampshire Mall, Hadley, MA. 

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Self-Directed Learning: Stoneflies

Like tiny submariners bursting up and out of the bottom of the brook, breaking into wings and soaring for a short time above the world they once knew, the stoneflies are here, molting from crab-shells they lived in. Learn more in our post, The Ripple: Synchronization of the Watershed Flora & Fauna.

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FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2022

PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley 

PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County 

PLAYGROUPSFamily Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County 

BOTANY. 9am-4pm. There is much to see at the Smith College Botanic Garden. You can spend many hours exploring the Lyman Plant House exhibitions, the Lyman Conservatory plant collections, the Campus Arboretum, and Campus Gardens. The Botanic Garden of Smith College. 413-585-2740. 16 College Lane. Northampton MA.

PLAYGROUP. 10am. Baby Lapsit at the Montague Center Library. 413-367-2852. 17 Center Street, Montague, MA.  

LITERACY/ STORYTIME. 10am. Storytime with the Cushman Library (Virtual) 

PLAYGROUP. 10-11am. For ages 0-5 at St. Philip’s Church Parish Hall. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 126 Main St., Easthampton, MA.  

ENTOMOLOGY/ BUTTERFLIES. 10am-4:30pm. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory – An 8000 square-foot tropical conservatory with nearly 4000 free-flying tropical and native butterflies from all over the world. Learn about butterflies along with exotic reptiles, frogs, fish, birds, and insects! Ask about their guided tours. Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory. 413-665-2805. 281 Greenfield Road. South Deerfield, MA.  

ICE SKATING. 11am-1pm. Homeschool Ice Skating. Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, MA. 

HISTORY/ NATIVE AMERICAN STUDIES. 12pm. History Bites Lunchtime Lecture Series: The Unlikely Marriage of Elaine Goodale and Charles Alexander Eastman (Ohíye S’a) – Elaine Goodale Eastman, her husband, Ohíye S’a, or Dr. Charles Alexander Eastman, and their six children, lived in three different houses in Amherst from 1903-1921. When they first arrived in Amherst, Elaine and Charles were already both well-known figures from their respective careers as authors, public speakers, and reformers of Indian policy, as well as from their unusual interracial marriage which was frequently written about in the press of the day. Dr. Julie Dobrow will talk about her upcoming book, Crossing Indian Country: From the Wounded Knee Massacre to the Unlikely Marriage of Elaine Goodale and Charles Alexander Eastman (Ohíye S’a). Hosted by the Amherst History Museum at the Jones Library. 413-259-3223. 43 Amity St, Amherst, MA. 

MUSIC STUDIES/ TEENS. 3pm. Intro to Ukulele for Teens. Instruments are provided. No registration is required. Springfield City Library: Forest Park Branch. 413-263-6843. 380 Belmont Ave, Springfield, MA.    

 

 

ROLLER SKATING. 6-9pm. Interskate 91. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street, Hampshire Mall, Hadley, MA.  

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 6:30pm. Night Out at the Museum: Beyond the Sea – Enjoy science, art, and smart conversation after-hours during a special event for adults ages 21+ as you grab a drink, meet new friends, and explore the Voyage to the Deep exhibition. The evening will feature delicious snacks, a cash bar, and origami crafts, and an informative and entertaining presentation by a coral reefs expert. Berkshire Museum. 413-443-7171. 39 South St, Pittsfield, MA.

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Self-Directed Learning: Women’s History

Western Massachusetts is home to many women changemakers who have dedicated their lives to enacting social change through the arts, critical inquiry, and learning. Still today, there are many women poets, writers, activists, artists, teachers, educators, and scientists that reside in Western Massachusetts who continue to work towards positive social change, including Emily Dickinson, Elizabeth Porter Phelps, and Juanita Nelson. March is Women’s History Month, a national observation that honors and pays tributes to women who dedicated their lives to social justice, the environment, education, and positive change for society. These women are a tiny sample to explore; however, note the incredible number of talented women today in Western Massachusetts that continue to demonstrate the importance of women’s rights. Their grit and perseverance as pioneers are honored during the month of March. Read more in our post, Local Women & Local History: Understanding New England Women’s Lives from the Past.

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Weekly eNewsletter

Online and in-person events and resources shared above are done so as a courtesy and not as an endorsement. While we do our best to share accurate and up-to-date information, please take the time to confirm information, age appropriateness, registration requirements, safety protocols, and associated costs.

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Hilltown Families’ list of Suggested Events is supported in part by grants from the Agawam, Amherst, Becket, Bernardston, Buckland, Chicopee, Colrain, Cummington, Easthampton, Goshen, Granby, Greenfield, Hadley, Hatfield, Heath, Hinsdale/Peru, Huntington, Leyden, Montgomery, Mount Washington, Northern Berkshire, Orange, Otis, Palmer, Pelham, Rowe, Shelburne, Shutesbury, South Hadley, Tolland, Tyringham, Windsor, and Worthington Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

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