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
SUGGESTED EVENTS: FEBRUARY 11-17, 2023
Saturday, February 11, 2023
Sunday, February 12, 2023
Monday, February 13, 2023
Tuesday, February 14, 2023
Wednesday, February 15, 2023
Thursday, February 16, 2023
Friday, February 17, 2023
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING IDEAS
COMMUNITY-BASED EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Featured Events, Resources, & Opportunities FEATURED EVENT The 10th Annual Easthampton WinterFest Saturday, February 11, 2023. A major fundraiser to help support the health of Nashawannuck Pond, this event provides a winter celebration for the community near and far. Online events begin in January designed to engage the community, such as the Easthampton trivia contest, photo contest, snowflake-making contest, and more. In-person events begin February 2 with the 10 Days of WinterFest, ending on February 11 for the actual festivities of Winterfest. Look forward to an artisan, craft, and vendor fair, horse-drawn carriage rides, ice harvesting and ice carving demonstrations, magic shows, bingo, and a deca-dance gala featuring Johnny and the Flashback, an ice bar and hors d’oeuvres. More info: www.nashawannuckpond.org/winterfest.html
FEATURED EVENT FEATURED EVENT Head to The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art for February vacation! weekends and February 21-24 , their galleries include a new exhibition by award-winning artist Christian Robinson. Move your body with Center Dance Studio and laugh with the Happier Family Comedy Show (Feb 18 ). Enjoy storytimes and book signings with authors and illustrators, including Hayley and John Rocco (Feb 18 ), Astrid Sheckels (Feb 22 ), and Circle Round’s Rebecca Sheir and Eric Shimelonis (Feb 24 ). Make The Carle your February vacation destination! The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is at 125 W Bay Rd in Amherst, MA . For more information on scheduled events, visit www.carlemuseum.org.
FEATURED WINTER CAMP
February Vacation STEAM Camp at LaunchSpace Makerspace in Orange, MA. Come out of the cold this February vacation & join LaunchSpace Makerspace makers, inventors & artists in 4 days of hands-on STEAM Maker Camp fun! Experiment with acrylic painting, hand building with clay, mechanical engineering, and Rube Goldberg not-so-simple machines. These workshops are designed for ages 8-12 and are held February 20-24, 1-3pm . Cost: $25 for all 4 days of workshops & Thursday is free for everyone! Click here to register . For more info, email sid@launchspace-orange.com , or visit online: www.launchspace-orange.com . These programs are made possible through generous sponsorship from community partners at Walmart & the Community Foundation of Western Mass.
Introducing a brand-new winter theatre camp program from Barrington Stage Company: MTC Jr.! For students ages 13–18 , this class is perfect for the performer who has some experience, is ready to level up, and wants to develop their skills in a safe and comfortable environment. Students will be coached on group songs and solos and be taught audition techniques for live or virtual theatre auditions. By the end of the course, students will have a better idea of how to choose material for themselves, be more well-rounded performers, and will have built their confidence for any audition they attend in the future! To learn more and register, email Education@BarringtonStageCo.org or visit Barrington Stage Company’s website: www.bsceducation.org/kata
Welcome to Winter Vacation Day “Sled Dog Camp!” February 23, 10am-3pm, Ages 8-15 , Cost $100 for 1, $190 for 2 kids. Hilltown Sleddogs is home to a team of Alaskan Huskies in Western MA . They lived in Alaska for the past three winters, but they are home this winter. Marla has mushed the 750-mile Serum Run Expedition & 300-mile Summit Quest Race. Summer Sled Dog Camps are open now for sign-up online, where each child gets their sled dog & each dog gets their own kid! The Hilltown Sleddogs offer Dog Yard Tours, Hikes, Rides on Dryland & Snow, Lessons with your dog or theirs & Birthday Parties too! Marla BB & Dog Team have stories & demonstrations to share at schools & festivals. 413-296-0187. hilltownsleddogs@gmail.com ; www.hilltownsleddogs.com .
FEATURED MUSEUMHistoric Deerfeld
Fun in February: School Vacation Week . February 20-24 from 10am-3pm
Are you looking for an exciting family outing during school vacation this month? Drop in at Historic Deerfield’s Visitor Center for their Fun in February: School Vacation Week, open February 20-24 from 10am-3pm each day. Play and have fun in their 1786 Hall Tavern. Dress up, write with a quill pen, play games, make a craft, and experience a hearth cooking demonstration! Since it is a drop-in program, you can come anytime between 10am-3pm. Children 17 and under are free but must be accompanied by an adult (admission is $7 for adults). Historic Deerfield . 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
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; admissions@amherstmontessori.org ; amherstmontessori.org .
Make music with the Community Music School of Springfield this summer! CMSS offers high-quality music instruction for students of all ages and levels, and their summer session features flexible scheduling and a choice of online or in-person learning . Whether you’re just starting or a seasoned musician, CMSS takes the time to match you with a teacher who will connect to you while helping you accomplish your personal musical goals. Offering instruction in over 30 instruments and voice, their registration team can help you decide whether to rent or purchase your instrument. Getting started is easy — your summer music lesson is just a click away! To learn more, call 413-732-8428 or visit communitymusicschool.com
The Common School transforms into a vibrant day camp for kids during summer. Open to the greater Pioneer Valley community, the program has served local kids and their families for over 40 years. Depending on age and interests, kids can explore frog ponds, wooded trails, and gardens in The Common School’s Down on the Farm Camp . Campers can design, invent, and build their own creations in the school’s Design Squad Camp . Or they can cheer for their friends and work with their teammates as they compete in various games in a version of the Summer Olympics. Plus, more! Aspiring creators, artists, recyclers, superheroes, and Dungeons and Dragons masters can all join them this summer! Contact: 413-256-8989. emma@commonschool.org ; commonschool.org/summerfun
Deerfield Academy Summer Arts Camp (DASAC) is an alternative education community focusing on experimental and traditional arts in a day camp setting for campers ages 11 through 16. DASAC creates space and agency for campers to be their most authentic selves. DASAC is designed to welcome children from the communities that surround Deerfield. Because of this design, they seek camper families rooted in the nearby communities. Session 1: June 27 – July 14; Session 2: July 18 – August 4. Contact: 413-774-1498. cwelch@deerfield.edu ; deerfield.edu/summer-programs/dasac .
Unleash your children’s creativity and explore their passion for dance at Art In Motion summer camps! Art In Motion offers a wide range of camps for kids ages 5-16, where they can take dance classes, engage in craft projects, and enjoy outdoor activities. Art In Motion’s experienced instructors will lead campers through various dance styles and creative projects, fostering a fun and supportive environment for children to learn, grow, and make lasting memories. Art In Motion summer camps have something for everyone, whether a beginner or an experienced dancer. Sign up now and let your child’s imagination run wild! Contact: 413-355-0196. Hello@artinmotion413.com ; artinmotion413.com/camps .
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Partner with Hilltown Families in your online advertising! Delivering your message each week to over 35,000 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.
List of Weekly Suggested Events
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2023
🍁 SUGAR SHACK/FAMILY MEAL . 7am-1pm. Maple Season Breakfast – Bring the family for a maple season breakfast that includes demonstrations of maple syrup rendering, tastings, and tours. North Hadley Sugar Shack. 413-585-8820. 181 River Drive. Hadley, MA.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/ SNOWSHOEING . 8:30am-4pm. Ski Notchview – Renowned for its Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, there is something for everyone. Ski Notchview this winter and enjoy over 25 miles of trails. Half of the trails are groomed and track-set for classical cross-country skiing, and 5 miles are groomed for skate skiing. A separate trail system is for “skijoring” (aka skiing with dogs). Visitors can also snowshoe alongside the ski trails or go off track and explore the backcountry. Rentals are available. Notchview. 413-684-0148. 83 Old Route 9, Windsor, MA.
FAMILY RADIO : 9-10am. Hilltown Family Variety Show. WXOJ 103.3FM Northampton, MA. (Radio )
OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. Daylight. Outdoor ice skating rink open at Lee Athletic Field. Lee, MA.
🩹 HEALTH CARE/ FIRST AID. 9am. Infant and Toddler First Aid for Parents and Caregivers – Learn skills such as choking relief, bleeding control, treatment of soft tissue injuries, management of severe allergies, treating tick bites, identifying and treating heat exhaustion, and lots of Q&A. Nicole Thurrell, Recreation Therapist, and Wilderness EMT teach this course. Hosted by Northampton Parents Center (Virtual )
📚 LIBRARY ADVENTURES. 9am. A Special Saturday in February – Chesterfield Library. 413-296-4735. 408 Main Rd, Chesterfield, MA.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/ SNOWSHOEING. 9am-4:30pm. Cross-Country Skiing at Northfield Mountain – Northfield Mountain has more than 25 miles of trails designed specifically for cross-country skiing and groomed for both classical and free-style skiing. Their trails offer some of the finest Nordic skiing in the region, from beginner trails to the demanding 800-foot vertical climb of Tenth Mountain Trail. A seasonal rental program for cross-country skis and snowshoes is available. Northfield Mountain. 413-659-3714. 99 Millers Falls Road, RT 63, Northfield, MA.
NEW ENGLAND HISTORY. 9:30am-4:30pm. Historic Deerfield – Founded in 1952, Historic Deerfield is an outdoor museum that interprets the history and culture of early New England and the Connecticut River Valley. Visitors can tour twelve carefully-preserved antique houses dating from 1730 to 1850 and explore world-class collections of regional furniture, silver, textiles, and other decorative arts on display in the authentic period houses; as well as the Flynt Center of Early New England Life, a state-of-the-art museum facility featuring exhibitions and a visible storage area. Support interests in history through the lens of architecture, New England antiques, arts and crafts needlework, ironware and basketry, cooking and baking, gardening, textiles, fashion, furniture, and much more! Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
🧸 PLAYGROUP . 10am. Learn Through Play: We are Special, We are Kind – Activities and circle time will focus on friendship. UNO Community Center. 413-663-7588. 157 River Street. North Adams, MA.
🌾 WINTER FARMERS’ MARKET. 10am. Grow Food Northampton Farmers Markets – Vibrant pre-Valentine’s Day farmers market with 20+ vendors, including local veggies, eggs, meats, mushrooms, bread, cheese, bread, maple syrup, pierogi, prepared food, chocolate, kombucha, teas, tinctures, flowers, jewelry, art, crafts and more! Northampton Senior Center. 413-587-1228. 67 Conz St, Northampton, MA.
💌 ARTS & CRAFTS/ VALENTINE. 10am. Valentine Card Making for All Ages – Carnegie Public Library. 413-863-3214. 201 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA.
🐾 NATURE SCIENCE . 10am. Family Science: Tracks and Traces – What tales can animals tell us by looking at what they leave behind? This seasonal nature and science program is designed for children (ages 5–7) with their caregivers to explore nature-related topics. Hitchcock Center for the Environment. 413-256-6006, 845 West St, Amherst, MA.
🐾 TRACKING. 10am. Tracks, Trees, and Tunnels – The rich forests, old fields, and coldwater streams of Graves Farm provide a diverse landscape for large mammals such as bears, fishers, coyotes, and bobcats and for their prey: deer, porcupines, red squirrels and more. Search for signs of local wildlife, the food and trees they may rely on, and where they shelter for the winter season. Graves Farm Wildlife Sanctuary. 413-584-3009. Adams Rd, Haydenville, MA.
CREATIVE FREE-PLAY/ INTERACTIVE MUSEUM . 10am-4pm. The Children’s Museum – Dedicated to enhancing children’s educational and cultural awareness through the arts, sciences, and the world around them. The Museum’s participatory exhibits and educational programming invite children and adults to interact and enjoy learning and self-discovery while at play. Young children almost always want to start on the Curvy Climber. And then, throughout the Museum, there are several other activities that older children might spend more time with, including the Legos Table, The Magna Tile Table, Maxi Rollways, and the Imagination Playground. There is also a state-of-the-art World of Motion room that stimulates children and adults’ curious minds. This room is STEM-based and encourages learning and play. Discover more at The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum – Ventfort Hall is an imposing Jacobean Revival-style mansion built in 1893 for Sarah Morgan, the sister of J. P. Morgan. It was one of the approximately seventy-five so-called “Cottages” built in Lenox in the late 19th century when the village became a popular Gilded Age resort. The museum can support interests in history and architecture, photography, film, art, and botany. Photography and film students can test their skills in the house, finding interesting areas to photograph. Art students are welcome to find a spot they enjoy and sketch, paint, and/or interpret the site as it fits their interests and studies. History classes may compare and contrast the architectural elements of Ventfort Hall with observations in their community. Botany students can investigate and identify trees and plants on the property that are of the era. And much more! Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
NATURAL HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES : 10am-5pm. The Beneski Museum of Natural History – One of New England’s largest natural history museums, featuring three floors of exhibits with more than 1,700 specimens on display. Step inside the museum, and you’ll find: Dramatic displays of fossil skeletons, from fish to dinosaurs to Ice Age megafauna, an extraordinary collection of local dinosaur footprints, geological specimens and immersive exhibits that tell the history of the local landscape through geologic time, including when dinosaurs inhabited the area, and dazzling mineral specimens from around the world and meteorites from beyond Earth. Beneski Museum of Natural History. 413-542-2165. Amherst College. 11 Barrett Hill Dr, Amherst, MA.
MUSEUMS ADVENTURES . 10am-5pm. Springfield Museums – The Springfield Museums uses art, history, science, and Dr. Seuss to explore our shared connections and unique perspectives to promote engagement, literacy, and learning. Located in the heart of downtown Springfield, the Springfield Museums offer access to five world-class museums, including the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, all under a single admission. The museums are community-based educational resources that can support interests and education in art studies, natural history, STEM, astronomy, zoology, geology, paleontology, ecology, history, and, of course, Dr. Seuss. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-5pm. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art – A museum devoted to the art of picture books, especially children’s books. The Carle’s picture-book exhibitions showcase various artists, themes, and styles. Their three galleries host six original shows a year, so there is always something new! In addition to exploring art in the galleries, drop into the art studio to experience the creative joy of making art; explore new picture books, and rediscover old ones in their library. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-6pm. The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) – One of the world’s liveliest centers for making and enjoying today’s most evocative art. With vast galleries and a stunning collection of indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, MASS MoCA embraces all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and new, boundary-crossing works of art that defy easy classification. MASS MoCA offers various participatory learning opportunities, including hands-on art-making classes and docent-guided tours. A must-visit for families is Kidspace, a child-centered art gallery and hands-on studio that offers in-depth art education. Visit the ArtBar, a hands-on studio space in Kidspace, to make art or take a project home with you. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA.
📖 MOVEMENT/ STORYTELLING. 10:30am. Dancing Stories – Join dancer/educator Olivia Martin for a morning of reading and movement exploration. Participants ages 4-12 will explore reading and storytelling through movement. Berkshire Athenaeum. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, MA.
💌 ARTS & CRAFTS/ VALENTINE. 10:30am. Valentine Crafting – Make Valentines, decorate cookies, and enjoy Valentine-themed STEAM activities. Ages 3+. Meekins Library. 413-268-7472. 2 Williams St, Williamsburg, MA.
🌟 DANCE STUDIES/ INTERPRETATION. 11am. Library Dances – Words are to the writer, what movement vocabulary is to the dancer. Writers craft phrases, and dancers craft choreography. Both artists improvise at some point during their artistic process. In this performance, Maureen Shea will perform solo dances and recent choreography performed by dance students at Springfield College and will be presented in three parts: a dance poem, a dance essay, and the chapter of a dance novel. South Hadley Public Library. 413-538-5045. 2 Canal St., South Hadley, MA.
💌 VALENTINE/ FILM STUDIES. 11am. Be My Valentine Charlie Brown – It’s Valentine’s Day again, and Charlie Brown dreams the seemingly hopeless dream of receiving a valentine from anyone. All the while, the rest of the gang have their trials, whether Linus struggles to get the most significant card he can for his beloved teacher, or Lucy tries to get some token from Schroeder while Snoopy and Woodstock have fun spearing valentines on each other’s nose. Let the littles try out a movie with a 25-minute run time perfect for 1st timers at no cost. Greenfield Garden Cinema. 413-773-9260. 361 Main St. Greenfield, MA.
ART STUDIES . 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) – SCMA is recognized as a leading academic museum. Their collection comprises 27,000+ objects, representing the diversity of art and material culture across periods and geographies. Visitors can discover artworks from across periods and geographies in their permanent collection galleries and temporary exhibitions, engaging people with first-hand experiences of art, artists, and museum practice. The museum’s collection ranges from ancient Greek vases to contemporary video art. The works in their permanent collection galleries are regularly rotated, so there’s something new to see each time you visit. Special exhibitions highlight a dynamic range of artworks and artists. Smith College Museum of Art. 413-585-2760. 20 Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. Northampton, MA.
🎲 ROLL-PLAYING GAMES . 12-2pm. Dungeons & Dragons for Kids – Serving as a continuation of innate childhood creativity, role-playing games offer maturing tweens and teens the opportunity to exercise imagination and creativity within complex structures. Role-playing games like D&D challenge players by containing creative storytelling to a pre-existing structure. Families can utilize a handful of community resources to pursue these interests, including an afternoon of Dungeons & Dragons at The Worthington Library. 413-238-5565. One Huntington Rd, Worthington, MA .
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES . 1-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum – Located on the Mount Holyoke College campus, this Museum is one of the oldest teaching museums in the country, dedicated to providing firsthand experience with works of significant aesthetic and cultural value. The Museum offers pre- and post-visit educational materials designed for kids of all ages to maximize their learning potential while exploring the galleries and connecting art with their personal experiences, including walking and activity guides and educator resources. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA.
🎥 LITERATURE IN TRANSLATION. 1:30pm. Interactive Movie Afternoon: “Princess Bride” – Come to the library for all ages’ fun, enjoying snacks, reciting favorite lines, cheering for the heroes, and interacting with the beloved adaptation of S. Morgenstern’s classic tale, starring Carey Elwes and Robin Wright. Dress up as your favorite character from the movie for a costume contest with a themed prize. Prop kits will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Clapp Memorial Library. 413-323-0417. 19 South Main Street, Belchertown, MA.
🎶 MUSIC STUDIES . 2pm. The Organ Masters – Support music studies by learning about Johnson Organs, created by a Westfield-based firm that built hundreds of pipe organs throughout the United States from 1844 through 1898. The Johnson organ at the Unitarian Universalist Meeting of South Berkshire is one of the most important historical instruments in the region. It has been called a hidden gem of the Berkshires for its sweet musical voice. Hear this instrument played in person. Great community-based educational event to support an interest in music, history, and industry in the region. Unitarian Universalist Meeting of South Berkshire (UUMSB). Housatonic, MA
🧧 CHINESE NEW YEAR. 3-8pm. Lantern Festival & Chinese New Year Culture Fair – Celebrate the Year of Rabbit and lantern festival! Learn the Chinese culture with your family through a memorable evening of fun games, making traditional snacks, a live performance, a delicious dinner, and a lantern sing-along! Hosted by the Chinese Association of Western Massachusetts at Smith Vocational High School. 80 Locust Street (Route 9), Northampton, MA.
⛸ICE SKATING. 4-5:50pm. Public Ice Skate – Ice skating sessions for the public at UMass Mullins Center. Skate rentals are provided. Great opportunity to get moving on cold New England days! UMass Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, MA.
🎳 SPORTS/ BOWLING. 4-11pm. Vintage Candlepin Bowling & Bar – Bowling is a fun way to practice math skills and statistics while observing physics concepts, such as friction, torque, velocity, and gravity. Shelburne Falls Bowling Alley. 413-625-6179. 43 Bridge Street. Shelburne Falls, MA.
🥌 SPORTS/ CURLING. 6pm. Learn To Curl – You’ve watched it on TV, now come and try it for yourself! All necessary equipment and instruction will be provided; bring clean rubber-soled shoes, warm layers, and your enthusiasm! Learn how to deliver the stone, sweep, and yell, and everyone will get to play a short game. Registration required. Boys & Girls Club Of The Berkshires. 413-448-8258. 16 Melville Street. Pittsfield, MA.
🏒 SPORTS/ ICE HOCKEY. 7pm. UMass Hockey vs. Vermont – UMass Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave, Amherst, MA.
💃 YOUTH PERFORMANCE FESTIVAL . 7pm. The Youth Performance Festival (YPF), a collaboration between Play Incubation Collective and the Northampton Center for the Arts, for youth artists ages 8-18 to create original performance pieces under the guidance of mentor artists in the fields of music, dance, theater, poetry/spoken word, and video. YPF centers the creative agency of young artists and is committed to supporting them as they discover their creative processes. Northampton Center for the Arts. 413-584-7327. 33 Hawley Street, Northampton, MA.
🦉 ORNITHOLOGY/ OWLS 7:30pm Owl Prowl – Hitchcock Center for the Environment 413-256-6006, 845 West St, Amherst, MA.
🎭 THEATER STUDIES. 8-11pm. Exit 7 Players Presents: Clue – The classic board game is brought to life in Clue! Exit 7 Players Theater. 413-583-4301. 37 Chestnut St, Ludlow, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Valentine Candy
Valentine’s Day is often observed through sugary sweetness, including giving heart-shaped boxes of chocolates, the iconic Sweethearts, and chocolate-covered strawberries! Let the tradition of giving and receiving confections be a lens for learning about manufacturing , pastry arts , and food history .
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SUNDAY, FEBURARY 12, 2023
🎣 ICE FISHING DERBY . 6am-12pm. Cheshire Fire Department Annual Ice Fishing Derby – As part of our local heritage, ice fishing has a long history linked to food and survival. The region offers opportunities to learn about and participate in ice fishing in the mid-winter. Sporting clubs, environmental organizations, and civic groups often host ice fishing derbies and clinics like the Cheshire Fire Department’s annual Ice Fishing Derby. First Lake Boat Ramp. Chester, MA.
🍁 SUGAR SHACK/FAMILY MEAL . 7am-1pm. Maple Season Breakfast – Bring the family for a maple season breakfast that includes demonstrations of maple syrup rendering, tastings, and tours. North Hadley Sugar Shack. 413-585-8820. 181 River Drive. Hadley, MA.
FAMILY RADIO : 7-8am. Hilltown Family Variety Show. WXOJ 103.3FM Northampton, MA. (Radio )
OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. Daylight. Outdoor ice skating rink open at Lee Athletic Field. Lee, MA.
🥞 COMMUNITY MEAL/PANCAKE BREAKFAST. 8-11am. Pancake Day – It’s been proven that having meals with your children benefits their social and emotional development and linguistic skills. Family meals allow adults to model good manners, gratitude, and generosity—a time to connect through storytelling, conversations, and holding space for one another. But family meals don’t have to be solely dinner at home. It can be a community pancake breakfast like this one coming up next weekend in Middlefield to benefit the Middlefield Fair! Middlefield Town Hall. Middlefield, MA.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/ SNOWSHOEING . 8:30am-4pm. Ski Notchview – Renowned for its Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, there is something for everyone. Ski Notchview this winter and enjoy over 25 miles of trails. Half of the trails are groomed and track-set for classical cross-country skiing, and 5 miles are groomed for skate skiing. A separate trail system is for “skijoring” (aka skiing with dogs). Visitors can also snowshoe alongside the ski trails or go off track and explore the backcountry. Rentals are available. Notchview. 413-684-0148. 83 Old Route 9, Windsor, MA.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/ SNOWSHOEING. 9am-4:30pm. Cross-Country Skiing at Northfield Mountain – Northfield Mountain has more than 25 miles of trails designed specifically for cross-country skiing and groomed for both classical and free-style skiing. Their trails offer some of the finest Nordic skiing in the region, from beginner trails to the demanding 800-foot vertical climb of Tenth Mountain Trail. A seasonal rental program for cross-country skis and snowshoes is available. Northfield Mountain. 413-659-3714. 99 Millers Falls Road, RT 63, Northfield, MA.
NEW ENGLAND HISTORY. 9:30am-4:30pm. Historic Deerfield – Founded in 1952, Historic Deerfield is an outdoor museum that interprets the history and culture of early New England and the Connecticut River Valley. Visitors can tour twelve carefully-preserved antique houses dating from 1730 to 1850 and explore world-class collections of regional furniture, silver, textiles, and other decorative arts on display in the authentic period houses; as well as the Flynt Center of Early New England Life, a state-of-the-art museum facility featuring exhibitions and a visible storage area. Support interests in history through the lens of architecture, New England antiques, arts and crafts needlework, ironware and basketry, cooking and baking, gardening, textiles, fashion, furniture, and much more! Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
JEWISH CULTURE/ HISTORY. 10am-4pm. Yiddish Book Center – Learning about Jewish culture and history often leads parents and children to conversations about their family’s history, culture, and traditions. Part of The Center’s mission is to offer engaging learning opportunities for curious visitors of all ages who come to the expansive, sunny museum designed to resemble a shtetl (Eastern European Jewish small town), which sits in an apple orchard adjacent to the Hampshire College campus. Visitors don’t need to be able to read or speak Yiddish to enjoy the Center—although, by the visit’s end, they’ll realize they probably knew more Yiddish words than they thought (nosh , schmooze , and shlep are all Yiddish words commonly used in English), and leave knowing even more. Yiddish Book Center. 413-256-4900. 1021 West Street. Amherst, MA.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum – Ventfort Hall is an imposing Jacobean Revival-style mansion built in 1893 for Sarah Morgan, the sister of J. P. Morgan. It was one of the approximately seventy-five so-called “Cottages” built in Lenox in the late 19th century when the village became a popular Gilded Age resort. The museum can support interests in history and architecture, photography, film, art, and botany. Photography and film students can test their skills in the house, finding interesting areas to photograph. Art students are welcome to find a spot they enjoy and sketch, paint, and/or interpret the site as it fits their interests and studies. History classes may compare and contrast the architectural elements of Ventfort Hall with observations in their community. Botany students can investigate and identify trees and plants on the property that are of the era. And much more! Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, 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.
NATURAL HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES : 10am-5pm. The Beneski Museum of Natural History – One of New England’s largest natural history museums, featuring three floors of exhibits with more than 1,700 specimens on display. Step inside the museum, and you’ll find: Dramatic displays of fossil skeletons, from fish to dinosaurs to Ice Age megafauna, an extraordinary collection of local dinosaur footprints, geological specimens and immersive exhibits that tell the history of the local landscape through geologic time, including when dinosaurs inhabited the area, and dazzling mineral specimens from around the world and meteorites from beyond Earth. Beneski Museum of Natural History. 413-542-2165. Amherst College. 11 Barrett Hill Dr, Amherst, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-6pm. The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) – One of the world’s liveliest centers for making and enjoying today’s most evocative art. With vast galleries and a stunning collection of indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, MASS MoCA embraces all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and new, boundary-crossing works of art that defy easy classification. MASS MoCA offers various participatory learning opportunities, including hands-on art-making classes and docent-guided tours. A must-visit for families is Kidspace, a child-centered art gallery and hands-on studio that offers in-depth art education. Visit the ArtBar, a hands-on studio space in Kidspace, to make art or take a project home with you. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA.
💌 VALENTINE’S DAY. 11am. Besties Bash – Kids can make Valentines for their family and friends with “The Snow Queen.” Cupcakes and crafts too. Edwards Public Library. 413-527-9480. 30 East Street, Southampton, MA.
ART STUDIES . 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) – SCMA is recognized as a leading academic museum. Their collection comprises 27,000+ objects, representing the diversity of art and material culture across periods and geographies. Visitors can discover artworks from across periods and geographies in their permanent collection galleries and temporary exhibitions, engaging people with first-hand experiences of art, artists, and museum practice. The museum’s collection ranges from ancient Greek vases to contemporary video art. The works in their permanent collection galleries are regularly rotated, so there’s something new to see each time you visit. Special exhibitions highlight a dynamic range of artworks and artists. Smith College Museum of Art. 413-585-2760. 20 Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. Northampton, MA.
MUSEUMS ADVENTURES . 11am-5pm. Springfield Museums – The Springfield Museums uses art, history, science, and Dr. Seuss to explore our shared connections and unique perspectives to promote engagement, literacy, and learning. Located in the heart of downtown Springfield, the Springfield Museums offer access to five world-class museums, including the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, all under a single admission. The museums are community-based educational resources that can support interests and education in art studies, natural history, STEM, astronomy, zoology, geology, paleontology, ecology, history, and, of course, Dr. Seuss. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA.
CREATIVE FREE-PLAY/ INTERACTIVE MUSEUM . 12-4pm. The Children’s Museum – Dedicated to enhancing children’s educational and cultural awareness through the arts, sciences, and the world around them. The Museum’s participatory exhibits and educational programming invite children and adults to interact and enjoy learning and self-discovery while at play. Young children almost always want to start on the Curvy Climber. And then, throughout the Museum, there are several other activities that older children might spend more time with, including the Legos Table, The Magna Tile Table, Maxi Rollways, and the Imagination Playground. There is also a state-of-the-art World of Motion room that stimulates children and adults’ curious minds. This room is STEM-based and encourages learning and play. Discover more at The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 12-5pm. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art – A museum devoted to the art of picture books, especially children’s books. The Carle’s picture-book exhibitions showcase various artists, themes, and styles. Their three galleries host six original shows a year, so there is always something new! In addition to exploring art in the galleries, drop into the art studio to experience the creative joy of making art; explore new picture books, and rediscover old ones in their library. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
🧩 PUZZLE SWAP. 1pm. Puzzle Swap – Bring a puzzle to swap or select a puzzle to borrow. All ages are welcome. Erving Public Library. 413-423-3348. 2 Care Dr, Erving, MA.
🎥 LOCAL HISTORY/ FAMILY FILM. 1pm. Family Movie Matinee – Beat the winter blues with this nature-related film series. The feature film is “Purple Mountain Majesty: A History of the Thunderbolt Ski Run. ” Featured guest speakers and local Thunderbolt experts share first-hand accounts of this legendary Mount Greylock trail! Enjoy a thrilling film history about the legendary Thunderbolt Ski Trail. Best for ages 8 and older. Mount Greylock Visitor Center. 413-499-4262. 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES . 1-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum – Located on the Mount Holyoke College campus, this Museum is one of the oldest teaching museums in the country, dedicated to providing firsthand experience with works of significant aesthetic and cultural value. The Museum offers pre- and post-visit educational materials designed for kids of all ages to maximize their learning potential while exploring the galleries and connecting art with their personal experiences, including walking and activity guides and educator resources. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA.
🕺 YOUTH PERFORMANCE FESTIVAL . 2pm. The Youth Performance Festival (YPF), a collaboration between Play Incubation Collective and the Northampton Center for the Arts, for youth artists ages 8-18 to create original performance pieces under the guidance of mentor artists in the fields of music, dance, theater, poetry/spoken word, and video. YPF centers the creative agency of young artists and is committed to supporting them as they discover their creative processes. Northampton Center for the Arts. 413-584-7327. 33 Hawley Street, Northampton, MA.
🎭 THEATER STUDIES. 2-5pm. Exit 7 Players Presents: “Clue” – The classic board game is brought to life in Clue! Exit 7 Players Theater. 413-583-4301. 37 Chestnut St, Ludlow, MA.
ART STUDIES/ GALLERY . 2-5pm. Hampshire College Art Gallery – The Hampshire College Art Gallery is a dynamic space for contemporary art and collections-based exhibitions, uniting innovative curatorial approaches with a focus on teaching and learning. Families can visit the gallery to check out traditional exhibitions, along with more interactive programs. Many objects in their small, eclectic permanent collection were donated when founders first built the college, so there are among them some quintessentially “’60s” artworks, alongside fine art photography. The gallery is located in the Harold F. Johnson Library Building, Ground Floor, on the campus of Hampshire College. 893 West Street. Amherst, MA.
⛸ ICE SKATING. 2:30-4:20pm. Public Ice Skate – Ice skating sessions for the public at UMass Mullins Center. Skate rentals are provided. Great opportunity to get moving on cold New England days! UMass Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, MA.
🌟 PURIM . 2:30pm. Pre-Purim Puppet Show & Costume Swap – Have a costume your family is no longer using? This event is an excellent opportunity to swap costumes with another family and to prepare for Purim. Featuring a hilarious puppet show from Monder Time Theater. The show begins at 2:30pm. Swap and snacks to follow. This event is free and open to all families Pre-register. City Space. 43 Main St. Easthampton, MA.
🧶 FIBER ARTS/ NEEDLEWORK. 3pm. Yarnspinners & Junior Yarnspinners – Needleworkers knit, crochet, and chat. Children interested in needlework can learn to knit or crochet, work on a yarn project, or find a new one. For needleworkers of all ages. Meekins Library. 413-268-7472. 2 Williams St, Williamsburg, MA.
⛸ ICE SKATING. 3-5pm. Williston Lossone Rink. BYO Skates. Greenwood Ct. Easthampton, MA.
🎳 SPORTS/ BOWLING. 4-8pm. Vintage Candlepin Bowling & Bar – Bowling is a fun way to practice math skills and statistics while observing physics concepts, such as friction, torque, velocity, and gravity. Shelburne Falls Bowling Alley. 413-625-6179. 43 Bridge Street. Shelburne Falls, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Super Bowl
On a Sunday in late January or early February every year, 100 million viewers tune in to watch the Super Bowl on television! With Super Bowl parties happening across the country, this annual event can encourage the curiosity of several interests. The study of American Football can support learning in sports history , manufacturing , geometry , science , physics , girls’ sports , culinary arts , politics , and even pop culture . On game day, get curious about the shape of the football and how it’s manufactured. Ask how science and math contribute to the outcome of a game and seek answers. Why don’t women play in the Super Bowl? How are food, dance, and music a part of the American tradition? What is the difference between soccer and football ? Seek answers and tackle your interests on game day!
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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2023
PLAYGROUP . Northampton Parents Center .
PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County
PLAYGROUPS . Family Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS . Family Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS . Home. City. Families. in Springfield
OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. Daylight. Outdoor ice skating rink open at Lee Athletic Field. Lee, MA.
PLAYGROUP . 8:30-11am. Hilltown Family Center Infant & Toddler Play Group – Starting with Infant Playgroup at 8:30am and families with children 9mo-5yo joining at 9:45am. Families are welcome to eat breakfast at 8:30am for a nominal cost. Takes place at R.H. Conwell Elementary School. 413-667-2203 x311. 147 Huntington Rd, Worthington, MA.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/ SNOWSHOEING . 8:30am-4pm. Ski Notchview – Renowned for its Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, there is something for everyone. Ski Notchview this winter and enjoy over 25 miles of trails. Half of the trails are groomed and track-set for classical cross-country skiing, and 5 miles are groomed for skate skiing. A separate trail system is for “skijoring” (aka skiing with dogs). Visitors can also snowshoe alongside the ski trails or go off track and explore the backcountry. Rentals are available. Notchview. 413-684-0148. 83 Old Route 9, Windsor, MA.
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 . 10-11am. For ages 0-5 at the Meekins Library. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 2 Williams St, Williamsburg, MA.
JEWISH CULTURE/ HISTORY. 10am-4pm. Yiddish Book Center – Learning about Jewish culture and history often leads parents and children to conversations about their family’s history, culture, and traditions. Part of The Center’s mission is to offer engaging learning opportunities for curious visitors of all ages who come to the expansive, sunny museum designed to resemble a shtetl (Eastern European Jewish small town), which sits in an apple orchard adjacent to the Hampshire College campus. Visitors don’t need to be able to read or speak Yiddish to enjoy the Center—although, by the visit’s end, they’ll realize they probably knew more Yiddish words than they thought (nosh , schmooze , and shlep are all Yiddish words commonly used in English), and leave knowing even more. Yiddish Book Center. 413-256-4900. 1021 West Street. Amherst, MA.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum – Ventfort Hall is an imposing Jacobean Revival-style mansion built in 1893 for Sarah Morgan, the sister of J. P. Morgan. It was one of the approximately seventy-five so-called “Cottages” built in Lenox in the late 19th century when the village became a popular Gilded Age resort. The museum can support interests in history and architecture, photography, film, art, and botany. Photography and film students can test their skills in the house, finding interesting areas to photograph. Art students are welcome to find a spot they enjoy and sketch, paint, and/or interpret the site as it fits their interests and studies. History classes may compare and contrast the architectural elements of Ventfort Hall with observations in their community. Botany students can investigate and identify trees and plants on the property that are of the era. And much more! Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-6pm. The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) – One of the world’s liveliest centers for making and enjoying today’s most evocative art. With vast galleries and a stunning collection of indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, MASS MoCA embraces all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and new, boundary-crossing works of art that defy easy classification. MASS MoCA offers various participatory learning opportunities, including hands-on art-making classes and docent-guided tours. A must-visit for families is Kidspace, a child-centered art gallery and hands-on studio that offers in-depth art education. Visit the ArtBar, a hands-on studio space in Kidspace, to make art or take a project home with you. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA.
ART STUDIES/ GALLERY . 10:30am-4:30pm. Hampshire College Art Gallery – The Hampshire College Art Gallery is a dynamic space for contemporary art and collections-based exhibitions, uniting innovative curatorial approaches with a focus on teaching and learning. Families can visit the gallery to check out traditional exhibitions, along with more interactive programs. Many objects in their small, eclectic permanent collection were donated when founders first built the college, so there are among them some quintessentially “’60s” artworks, alongside fine art photography. The gallery is located in the Harold F. Johnson Library Building, Ground Floor, on the campus of Hampshire College. 893 West Street. Amherst, MA.
🐉 ARTS & CRAFTS . 11am. Dragon Boat Making – Joong or Tsung-Tse was the name of a food served during the Dragon Boat Festival in China. It later became a yarn-wrapped ornament. Learn how to make these festive and decorative ornaments at the Easthampton Council On Aging & Enrichment Center. Call to hold a spot: 413-527-6151. 19 Union Street. Easthampton, MA.
🌟 MAKERSPACE . 2-4:30pm. Makerspace Collaboratory Drop-In – The East Forest Park Branch Makerspace is a place you can visit for free to use their selection of equipment to create, craft, tinker, and experiment! From traditional crafts to digital tinkering. The East Forest Park Makerspace is your place to create, invent, and learn. Each week there is a drop-in project or two based on a theme. All ages. East Forest Park Branch. 413-263-6836. 136 Surrey Road. Springfield, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Roosting Crows
Learning when seasonal phenomena occur in nature helps strengthen a sense of place. Like maple trees, crows are a common part of our landscape here in New England. Between the time maple trees lose their leaves in the fall and when the flow of their sap begins and ends in the spring, American Crows and Fish Crows often gather in flocks, swelling up to 10,000 birds large to roost for the night . With crows, observing and asking questions about their staging and roosting behavior in the early evenings can help young naturalists connect with the season. Do they roost in large flocks to stay warm? For protection? To support a complex social hierarchy ? Why do they roost in the winter and not in the summer? What does this have to do with maple trees and winter in New England? Getting curious and learning about crows in the winter can support interests in biology, ornithology, animal behavior, and the importance of conservation. Check with your local nature center or conservation organization to see if they will be hosting events this winter on the topic of crows!
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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2023
PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley
PLAYGROUP . Northampton Parents Center
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County
PLAYGROUPS . Family Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS . Family Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS . Home. City. Families. in Springfield
OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. Daylight. Outdoor ice skating rink open at Lee Athletic Field. Lee, MA.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/ SNOWSHOEING . 8:30am-4pm. Ski Notchview – Renowned for its Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, there is something for everyone. Ski Notchview this winter and enjoy over 25 miles of trails. Half of the trails are groomed and track-set for classical cross-country skiing, and 5 miles are groomed for skate skiing. A separate trail system is for “skijoring” (aka skiing with dogs). Visitors can also snowshoe alongside the ski trails or go off track and explore the backcountry. Rentals are available. Notchview. 413-684-0148. 83 Old Route 9, Windsor, MA.
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.
CREATIVE FREE-PLAY/ INTERACTIVE MUSEUM . 9am-4pm. The Children’s Museum – Dedicated to enhancing children’s educational and cultural awareness through the arts, sciences, and the world around them. The Museum’s participatory exhibits and educational programming invite children and adults to interact and enjoy learning and self-discovery while at play. Young children almost always want to start on the Curvy Climber. And then, throughout the Museum, there are several other activities that older children might spend more time with, including the Legos Table, The Magna Tile Table, Maxi Rollways, and the Imagination Playground. There is also a state-of-the-art World of Motion room that stimulates children and adults’ curious minds. This room is STEM-based and encourages learning and play. Discover more at The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
PLAYGROUP . 9:30-11:30am. School-readiness program for ages 3-4yo + caregiver. Engagement with young children is modeled through songs, books, circle time, literacy activities, StoryWalks, crafts, STEM activities, free play, cooperative games, take-home activities, and outdoor play. Hilltown Family Center. 9 Russell Road. Huntington, MA .
FIBER ARTS & CRAFTS. 10am. Knit & Crafts Circle – Bring a portable craft (knitting, crochet, spinning, rug-hooking, mending, etc.) and get support and camaraderie. Best for lifelong and self-directed learners. Registration is required. Tilton Library. 413-665-4683. 75 North Main Street. South Deerfield, MA.
PLAYGROUP . 10am. Tinker Tots – Each week, children ages 0-2 (siblings welcome) and their caregivers engage in child-centered play, art, music, storytime, and sensory activities to encourage social, fine & gross motor skills, and pre-literacy. Berkshire Athenaeum. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, MA.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-3pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum – Ventfort Hall is an imposing Jacobean Revival-style mansion built in 1893 for Sarah Morgan, the sister of J. P. Morgan. It was one of the approximately seventy-five so-called “Cottages” built in Lenox in the late 19th century when the village became a popular Gilded Age resort. The museum can support interests in history and architecture, photography, film, art, and botany. Photography and film students can test their skills in the house, finding interesting areas to photograph. Art students are welcome to find a spot they enjoy and sketch, paint, and/or interpret the site as it fits their interests and studies. History classes may compare and contrast the architectural elements of Ventfort Hall with observations in their community. Botany students can investigate and identify trees and plants on the property that are of the era. And much more! Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
NATURAL HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES : 10am-4pm. The Beneski Museum of Natural History – One of New England’s largest natural history museums, featuring three floors of exhibits with more than 1,700 specimens on display. Step inside the museum, and you’ll find: Dramatic displays of fossil skeletons, from fish to dinosaurs to Ice Age megafauna, an extraordinary collection of local dinosaur footprints, geological specimens and immersive exhibits that tell the history of the local landscape through geologic time, including when dinosaurs inhabited the area, and dazzling mineral specimens from around the world and meteorites from beyond Earth. Beneski Museum of Natural History. 413-542-2165. Amherst College. 11 Barrett Hill Dr, Amherst, MA.
JEWISH CULTURE/ HISTORY. 10am-4pm. Yiddish Book Center – Learning about Jewish culture and history often leads parents and children to conversations about their family’s history, culture, and traditions. Part of The Center’s mission is to offer engaging learning opportunities for curious visitors of all ages who come to the expansive, sunny museum designed to resemble a shtetl (Eastern European Jewish small town), which sits in an apple orchard adjacent to the Hampshire College campus. Visitors don’t need to be able to read or speak Yiddish to enjoy the Center—although, by the visit’s end, they’ll realize they probably knew more Yiddish words than they thought (nosh , schmooze , and shlep are all Yiddish words commonly used in English), and leave knowing even more. Yiddish Book Center. 413-256-4900. 1021 West Street. Amherst, 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.
MUSEUMS ADVENTURES . 10am-5pm. Springfield Museums – The Springfield Museums uses art, history, science, and Dr. Seuss to explore our shared connections and unique perspectives to promote engagement, literacy, and learning. Located in the heart of downtown Springfield, the Springfield Museums offer access to five world-class museums, including the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, all under a single admission. The museums are community-based educational resources that can support interests and education in art studies, natural history, STEM, astronomy, zoology, geology, paleontology, ecology, history, and, of course, Dr. Seuss. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA.
LITERACY/ STORYTIME . 10:30am. Story Time – All ages and abilities are welcome! Drop in for a relaxed story hour, listen to books, play, make a seasonal craft, and chat with other grown-ups. Tilton Library. 413-665-4683. 75 North Main Street. South Deerfield, MA.
PLAYGROUP . 10:30am. For ages 0-5 at the Edwards Public Library. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 30 East Street, Southampton, MA.
ART STUDIES . 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) – SCMA is recognized as a leading academic museum. Their collection comprises 27,000+ objects, representing the diversity of art and material culture across periods and geographies. Visitors can discover artworks from across periods and geographies in their permanent collection galleries and temporary exhibitions, engaging people with first-hand experiences of art, artists, and museum practice. The museum’s collection ranges from ancient Greek vases to contemporary video art. The works in their permanent collection galleries are regularly rotated, so there’s something new to see each time you visit. Special exhibitions highlight a dynamic range of artworks and artists. Smith College Museum of Art. 413-585-2760. 20 Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. Northampton, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES . 11am-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum – Located on the Mount Holyoke College campus, this Museum is one of the oldest teaching museums in the country, dedicated to providing firsthand experience with works of significant aesthetic and cultural value. The Museum offers pre- and post-visit educational materials designed for kids of all ages to maximize their learning potential while exploring the galleries and connecting art with their personal experiences, including walking and activity guides and educator resources. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, 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.
🌟 MAKERSPACE . 2-4:30pm. Makerspace Collaboratory Drop-In – The East Forest Park Branch Makerspace is a place you can visit for free to use their selection of equipment to create, craft, tinker, and experiment! From traditional crafts to digital tinkering. The East Forest Park Makerspace is your place to create, invent, and learn. Each week there is a drop-in project or two based on a theme. All ages. East Forest Park Branch. 413-263-6836. 136 Surrey Road. Springfield, MA.
LEGOS . 3pm. LEGO Club – Playing with LEGOs offers an excellent opportunity for kids to practice problem-solving and spatial skills while engaging in semi-complex tasks. Children ages 6-10 are invited to build with the library’s impressive collection of LEGO Bricks at the Berkshire Athenaeum. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, MA.
GRANDPARENTING SUPPORT . 4-6pm. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group – A group for grandparents actively parenting their grandchildren. A safe and confidential space to share similar experiences with other grandparents. All groups are on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month. Free pizza and childcare provided. Questions or to register: 413-663-7588. Northern Berkshire Community Coalition. 61 Main Street. Ste 218. North Adams, MA.
🗣 WORLD LANGUAGES/ FRENCH 5:30pm BONJOUR Bernardston’s French Conversation Group – Whether you are fluent in French or in the process of learning this beautiful language, join a conversational French group out on the patio BONJOUR! meets monthly on the 2nd Tuesday from 5:30-6:30 New members are always welcome Cushman Library 413-648-5402 28 Church St, Bernardston, MA.
🏀 SPORTS/ BASKETBALL. 7pm. UMass Men’s Basketball vs. Loyola Chicago – Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Valentine’s Day
Every year, Americans exchange an average of 145 million Valentine’s Day cards . Valentine cards come in many different shapes and sizes. They can be handmade, store-bought, clever, creative, or traditional. Whatever form they come in, the American valentine industry has its roots in western Massachusetts, starting in the mid-19th century by Esther Howland, a Mount Holyoke graduate . She was inspired by the beautiful, ornate valentines imported from England and suspected there might also be a market for them in the United States. Esther Howland sold her first valentines through her father’s paper company in 1848 and, within a few years, began her own business, the New England Valentine Company . In addition to store-bought cards, families can make handmade Valentine cards instead, supporting interests in art studies , fiber arts , physics , chemistry , and geometry ! Read more in our post, Put Some STE(A)M into Your Valentines
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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023
PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley
PLAYGROUP . Northampton Parents Center
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County
PLAYGROUPS . South Berkshire County.
PLAYGROUPS . Family Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County.
PLAYGROUPS . Home. City. Families. in Springfield
OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. Daylight. Outdoor ice skating rink open at Lee Athletic Field. Lee, MA.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/ SNOWSHOEING . 8:30am-4pm. Ski Notchview – Renowned for its Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, there is something for everyone. Ski Notchview this winter and enjoy over 25 miles of trails. Half of the trails are groomed and track-set for classical cross-country skiing, and 5 miles are groomed for skate skiing. A separate trail system is for “skijoring” (aka skiing with dogs). Visitors can also snowshoe alongside the ski trails or go off track and explore the backcountry. Rentals are available. Notchview. 413-684-0148. 83 Old Route 9, Windsor, MA.
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.
CREATIVE FREE-PLAY/ INTERACTIVE MUSEUM . 9am-4pm. The Children’s Museum – Dedicated to enhancing children’s educational and cultural awareness through the arts, sciences, and the world around them. The Museum’s participatory exhibits and educational programming invite children and adults to interact and enjoy learning and self-discovery while at play. Young children almost always want to start on the Curvy Climber. And then, throughout the Museum, there are several other activities that older children might spend more time with, including the Legos Table, The Magna Tile Table, Maxi Rollways, and the Imagination Playground. There is also a state-of-the-art World of Motion room that stimulates children and adults’ curious minds. This room is STEM-based and encourages learning and play. Discover more at The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/ SNOWSHOEING. 9am-4:30pm. Cross-Country Skiing at Northfield Mountain – Northfield Mountain has more than 25 miles of trails designed specifically for cross-country skiing and groomed for both classical and free-style skiing. Their trails offer some of the finest Nordic skiing in the region, from beginner trails to the demanding 800-foot vertical climb of Tenth Mountain Trail. A seasonal rental program for cross-country skis and snowshoes is available. Northfield Mountain. 413-659-3714. 99 Millers Falls Road, RT 63, Northfield, MA.
NEW ENGLAND HISTORY. 9:30am-4:30pm. Historic Deerfield – Founded in 1952, Historic Deerfield is an outdoor museum that interprets the history and culture of early New England and the Connecticut River Valley. Visitors can tour twelve carefully-preserved antique houses dating from 1730 to 1850 and explore world-class collections of regional furniture, silver, textiles, and other decorative arts on display in the authentic period houses; as well as the Flynt Center of Early New England Life, a state-of-the-art museum facility featuring exhibitions and a visible storage area. Support interests in history through the lens of architecture, New England antiques, arts and crafts needlework, ironware and basketry, cooking and baking, gardening, textiles, fashion, furniture, and much more! Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
WORLD LANGUAGES/ SPANISH. 10am. Libros y canciones/Bilingual Storytime – Sing songs and read books in English and Spanish. Best suited for children ages 1.5-3. ¡Canta canciones y lee libros en ingles y español! Este evento es apropriado para niños de edades 1.5-3. Reuniremos en la sala de comunidad y se limitará asistencia a 30. Forbes Library. 413-587-1011. 20 West St, Northampton, MA.
HEALTH CARE. 10-11:30am. Walk-in Wellness Clinic – Provided by Westhampton’s Public Health Nurse, Michael Archbald. Clinics include: Guidance in managing chronic health issues; Medication management/side effects consultations; Sharps and mercury thermometers disposal, COVID-19 symptom management including “Long Covid”; Information regarding Home Health Care and local resources. Westhampton Public Library. 413-527-5386. 1 N Rd, Westhampton, MA.
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.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum – Ventfort Hall is an imposing Jacobean Revival-style mansion built in 1893 for Sarah Morgan, the sister of J. P. Morgan. It was one of the approximately seventy-five so-called “Cottages” built in Lenox in the late 19th century when the village became a popular Gilded Age resort. The museum can support interests in history and architecture, photography, film, art, and botany. Photography and film students can test their skills in the house, finding interesting areas to photograph. Art students are welcome to find a spot they enjoy and sketch, paint, and/or interpret the site as it fits their interests and studies. History classes may compare and contrast the architectural elements of Ventfort Hall with observations in their community. Botany students can investigate and identify trees and plants on the property that are of the era. And much more! Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art – A museum devoted to the art of picture books, especially children’s books. The Carle’s picture-book exhibitions showcase various artists, themes, and styles. Their three galleries host six original shows a year, so there is always something new! In addition to exploring art in the galleries, drop into the art studio to experience the creative joy of making art; explore new picture books, and rediscover old ones in their library. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, MA.
JEWISH CULTURE/ HISTORY. 10am-4pm. Yiddish Book Center – Learning about Jewish culture and history often leads parents and children to conversations about their family’s history, culture, and traditions. Part of The Center’s mission is to offer engaging learning opportunities for curious visitors of all ages who come to the expansive, sunny museum designed to resemble a shtetl (Eastern European Jewish small town), which sits in an apple orchard adjacent to the Hampshire College campus. Visitors don’t need to be able to read or speak Yiddish to enjoy the Center—although, by the visit’s end, they’ll realize they probably knew more Yiddish words than they thought (nosh , schmooze , and shlep are all Yiddish words commonly used in English), and leave knowing even more. Yiddish Book Center. 413-256-4900. 1021 West Street. Amherst, MA.
NATURAL HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES : 10am-4pm. The Beneski Museum of Natural History – One of New England’s largest natural history museums, featuring three floors of exhibits with more than 1,700 specimens on display. Step inside the museum, and you’ll find: Dramatic displays of fossil skeletons, from fish to dinosaurs to Ice Age megafauna, an extraordinary collection of local dinosaur footprints, geological specimens and immersive exhibits that tell the history of the local landscape through geologic time, including when dinosaurs inhabited the area, and dazzling mineral specimens from around the world and meteorites from beyond Earth. Beneski Museum of Natural History. 413-542-2165. Amherst College. 11 Barrett Hill Dr, Amherst, 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.
MUSEUMS ADVENTURES . 10am-5pm. Springfield Museums – The Springfield Museums uses art, history, science, and Dr. Seuss to explore our shared connections and unique perspectives to promote engagement, literacy, and learning. Located in the heart of downtown Springfield, the Springfield Museums offer access to five world-class museums, including the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, all under a single admission. The museums are community-based educational resources that can support interests and education in art studies, natural history, STEM, astronomy, zoology, geology, paleontology, ecology, history, and, of course, Dr. Seuss. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-6pm. The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) – One of the world’s liveliest centers for making and enjoying today’s most evocative art. With vast galleries and a stunning collection of indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, MASS MoCA embraces all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and new, boundary-crossing works of art that defy easy classification. MASS MoCA offers various participatory learning opportunities, including hands-on art-making classes and docent-guided tours. A must-visit for families is Kidspace, a child-centered art gallery and hands-on studio that offers in-depth art education. Visit the ArtBar, a hands-on studio space in Kidspace, to make art or take a project home with you. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, 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.
LITERACY/ STORYTIME . 10:30am. Storytime – Westhampton Public Library. 413-527-5386. 1 N Rd, Westhampton, MA.
ART STUDIES . 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) – SCMA is recognized as a leading academic museum. Their collection comprises 27,000+ objects, representing the diversity of art and material culture across periods and geographies. Visitors can discover artworks from across periods and geographies in their permanent collection galleries and temporary exhibitions, engaging people with first-hand experiences of art, artists, and museum practice. The museum’s collection ranges from ancient Greek vases to contemporary video art. The works in their permanent collection galleries are regularly rotated, so there’s something new to see each time you visit. Special exhibitions highlight a dynamic range of artworks and artists. Smith College Museum of Art. 413-585-2760. 20 Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. Northampton, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES . 11am-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum – Located on the Mount Holyoke College campus, this Museum is one of the oldest teaching museums in the country, dedicated to providing firsthand experience with works of significant aesthetic and cultural value. The Museum offers pre- and post-visit educational materials designed for kids of all ages to maximize their learning potential while exploring the galleries and connecting art with their personal experiences, including walking and activity guides and educator resources. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA.
⛸ ICE SKATING. 11:30am-12:50pm. Public Ice Skate – Ice skating sessions for the public at UMass Mullins Center. Skate rentals are provided. Great opportunity to get moving on cold New England days! UMass Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, 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.
🌟 INDIGENOUS WISDOM/ SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE . 5pm. Smith College Presidential Colloquium with Robin Wall Kimmerer – The Presidential Colloquium series regularly features influential thought leaders in various fields—from poets and writers to economists and policy experts—to share their expertise, offer insights, and inspire discourse on key social, political, and global topics that call for our attention. Robin Wall Kimmerer is a mother, scientist, decorated professor, and enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. She is the author of Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants , which has earned Kimmerer wide acclaim. Her first book, Gathering Moss: A Natural and Cultural History of Mosses, received the John Burroughs Medal for outstanding nature writing. Kimmerer is a Distinguished Teaching Professor of Environmental Biology at the State University of New York and the founder and director of the Center for Native Peoples and the Environment, whose mission is to create programs that draw on the wisdom of both indigenous and scientific knowledge for our shared goals of sustainability. (Virtual )
🧼 ARTISAN SKILLS/ SOAP MAKING. 5:30pm. Intro to Cold Process Soap Making – Learn the basics of soap making! Gain the confidence and skills to create high-quality soap for yourself and your family. Age: 12+, under 18 with an adult. LaunchSpace. 978-633-5131. 131 W Main St Suite 342, Orange, MA.
🔭 OCEANOGRAPHY/ ASTRONOMY. 6pm. Exploring Ocean Worlds In Our Solar System and Beyond – Jim Zebrowski, President of the Aldrich Astronomical Society, will explore the ocean worlds of our solar system. In this family-friendly event, he will cover the recent explorations of Earth’s deep oceans with the discovery of black smokers, which combines geological & biological activity. He will then discuss other ocean worlds in our solar system, like Europa, Enceladus, Titan, Triton, and even the dwarf planet Pluto. Stargazing will follow the talk, weather permitting. Wendell Free Library. 978-544-3559. 7 Wendell Depot Rd, Wendell, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Science Books
Experience is always the best teacher – and this is especially true for children! However, when kids are eager to learn about a topic, the lessons available might leave some space for supplementation. After you’ve explored your local habitat, got curious about native species, messed about with materials, and exercised all five senses together, it might be time to turn to books to add specific language and detail to understanding scientific topics for children. Age- and reading-level-appropriate materials are available for whatever topic kids are learning about. Please find out more in our post, 100+ Science Books to Support STEM Learning at Home & in the Classroom.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2023
PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley
PLAYGROUP . Northampton Parents Center
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County
PLAYGROUPS . Family Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS . Family Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS . Home. City. Families. in Springfield
OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. Daylight. Outdoor ice skating rink open at Lee Athletic Field. Lee, MA.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/ SNOWSHOEING . 8:30am-4pm. Ski Notchview – Renowned for its Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, there is something for everyone. Ski Notchview this winter and enjoy over 25 miles of trails. Half of the trails are groomed and track-set for classical cross-country skiing, and 5 miles are groomed for skate skiing. A separate trail system is for “skijoring” (aka skiing with dogs). Visitors can also snowshoe alongside the ski trails or go off track and explore the backcountry. Rentals are available. Notchview. 413-684-0148. 83 Old Route 9, Windsor, MA.
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.
CREATIVE FREE-PLAY/ INTERACTIVE MUSEUM . 9am-4pm. The Children’s Museum – Dedicated to enhancing children’s educational and cultural awareness through the arts, sciences, and the world around them. The Museum’s participatory exhibits and educational programming invite children and adults to interact and enjoy learning and self-discovery while at play. Young children almost always want to start on the Curvy Climber. And then, throughout the Museum, there are several other activities that older children might spend more time with, including the Legos Table, The Magna Tile Table, Maxi Rollways, and the Imagination Playground. There is also a state-of-the-art World of Motion room that stimulates children and adults’ curious minds. This room is STEM-based and encourages learning and play. Discover more at The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/ SNOWSHOEING. 9am-4:30pm. Cross-Country Skiing at Northfield Mountain – Northfield Mountain has more than 25 miles of trails designed specifically for cross-country skiing and groomed for both classical and free-style skiing. Their trails offer some of the finest Nordic skiing in the region, from beginner trails to the demanding 800-foot vertical climb of Tenth Mountain Trail. A seasonal rental program for cross-country skis and snowshoes is available. Northfield Mountain. 413-659-3714. 99 Millers Falls Road, RT 63, Northfield, MA.
NEW ENGLAND HISTORY. 9:30am-4:30pm. Historic Deerfield – Founded in 1952, Historic Deerfield is an outdoor museum that interprets the history and culture of early New England and the Connecticut River Valley. Visitors can tour twelve carefully-preserved antique houses dating from 1730 to 1850 and explore world-class collections of regional furniture, silver, textiles, and other decorative arts on display in the authentic period houses; as well as the Flynt Center of Early New England Life, a state-of-the-art museum facility featuring exhibitions and a visible storage area. Support interests in history through the lens of architecture, New England antiques, arts and crafts needlework, ironware and basketry, cooking and baking, gardening, textiles, fashion, furniture, and much more! Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
PLAYGROUP . 10am. For ages 0-5 at St. Philip’s Church Parish Hall. Call to register: 413-345-6015. 126 Main St., Easthampton, MA.
PLAYGROUP . 10am. Playgroup – Nurture your child’s social skills and school readiness at our weekly playgroup for preschoolers (older siblings are also welcome)! Opportunities for free and guided play. No registration is necessary. Please Note: Playgroup happens outside of regular library hours. Montague Center Library. 413-367-2852. 17 Center Street, Montague, MA.
PLAYGROUP . 10am. Preschool Play & Learn – Join Miss Jenn from Pittsfield’s CFCE for Preschool Play & Learn, a parent/child program centered around a theme from children’s literature and integrates pre-literacy, math, and fine and gross motor skills. There are a variety of exploration stations for children 3 to 5 years old to discover. Berkshire Athenaeum. 1 Wendell Ave, Pittsfield, MA.
PLAYGROUP. 10am. Playgroup – Free play, crafts, storytime, and songs for children ages birth to 5 years old with South Berkshire Kids at Monterey Public Library. 413-528-3795. 452 Main Rd, Monterey, MA.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum – Ventfort Hall is an imposing Jacobean Revival-style mansion built in 1893 for Sarah Morgan, the sister of J. P. Morgan. It was one of the approximately seventy-five so-called “Cottages” built in Lenox in the late 19th century when the village became a popular Gilded Age resort. The museum can support interests in history and architecture, photography, film, art, and botany. Photography and film students can test their skills in the house, finding interesting areas to photograph. Art students are welcome to find a spot they enjoy and sketch, paint, and/or interpret the site as it fits their interests and studies. History classes may compare and contrast the architectural elements of Ventfort Hall with observations in their community. Botany students can investigate and identify trees and plants on the property that are of the era. And much more! Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
JEWISH CULTURE/ HISTORY. 10am-4pm. Yiddish Book Center – Learning about Jewish culture and history often leads parents and children to conversations about their family’s history, culture, and traditions. Part of The Center’s mission is to offer engaging learning opportunities for curious visitors of all ages who come to the expansive, sunny museum designed to resemble a shtetl (Eastern European Jewish small town), which sits in an apple orchard adjacent to the Hampshire College campus. Visitors don’t need to be able to read or speak Yiddish to enjoy the Center—although, by the visit’s end, they’ll realize they probably knew more Yiddish words than they thought (nosh , schmooze , and shlep are all Yiddish words commonly used in English), and leave knowing even more. Yiddish Book Center. 413-256-4900. 1021 West Street. Amherst, MA.
NATURAL HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES : 10am-4pm. The Beneski Museum of Natural History – One of New England’s largest natural history museums, featuring three floors of exhibits with more than 1,700 specimens on display. Step inside the museum, and you’ll find: Dramatic displays of fossil skeletons, from fish to dinosaurs to Ice Age megafauna, an extraordinary collection of local dinosaur footprints, geological specimens and immersive exhibits that tell the history of the local landscape through geologic time, including when dinosaurs inhabited the area, and dazzling mineral specimens from around the world and meteorites from beyond Earth. Beneski Museum of Natural History. 413-542-2165. Amherst College. 11 Barrett Hill Dr, Amherst, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art – A museum devoted to the art of picture books, especially children’s books. The Carle’s picture-book exhibitions showcase various artists, themes, and styles. Their three galleries host six original shows a year, so there is always something new! In addition to exploring art in the galleries, drop into the art studio to experience the creative joy of making art; explore new picture books, and rediscover old ones in their library. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, 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.
MUSEUMS ADVENTURES . 10am-5pm. Springfield Museums – The Springfield Museums uses art, history, science, and Dr. Seuss to explore our shared connections and unique perspectives to promote engagement, literacy, and learning. Located in the heart of downtown Springfield, the Springfield Museums offer access to five world-class museums, including the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, all under a single admission. The museums are community-based educational resources that can support interests and education in art studies, natural history, STEM, astronomy, zoology, geology, paleontology, ecology, history, and, of course, Dr. Seuss. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-6pm. The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) – One of the world’s liveliest centers for making and enjoying today’s most evocative art. With vast galleries and a stunning collection of indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, MASS MoCA embraces all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and new, boundary-crossing works of art that defy easy classification. MASS MoCA offers various participatory learning opportunities, including hands-on art-making classes and docent-guided tours. A must-visit for families is Kidspace, a child-centered art gallery and hands-on studio that offers in-depth art education. Visit the ArtBar, a hands-on studio space in Kidspace, to make art or take a project home with you. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA.
NEW PARENT GROUP . 10:30am & 1pm. Beyond Birth groups meet weekly in both 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.
ART STUDIES . 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) – SCMA is recognized as a leading academic museum. Their collection comprises 27,000+ objects, representing the diversity of art and material culture across periods and geographies. Visitors can discover artworks from across periods and geographies in their permanent collection galleries and temporary exhibitions, engaging people with first-hand experiences of art, artists, and museum practice. The museum’s collection ranges from ancient Greek vases to contemporary video art. The works in their permanent collection galleries are regularly rotated, so there’s something new to see each time you visit. Special exhibitions highlight a dynamic range of artworks and artists. Smith College Museum of Art. 413-585-2760. 20 Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. Northampton, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES . 11am-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum – Located on the Mount Holyoke College campus, this Museum is one of the oldest teaching museums in the country, dedicated to providing firsthand experience with works of significant aesthetic and cultural value. The Museum offers pre- and post-visit educational materials designed for kids of all ages to maximize their learning potential while exploring the galleries and connecting art with their personal experiences, including walking and activity guides and educator resources. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA.
🎶 MUSIC/ MOVEMENT. 1:30pm. Music with Mr. Liam – Mr. Liam plays ukulele and drums. At the same time, he puts an energetic new twist on children’s classic songs. Join this fun musical concert for children ages 1.5 to 6 and their parents and caregivers. Forbes Library. 413-587-1011. 20 West St, Northampton, MA.
🌟 MAKERSPACE . 3-5pm. Kids’ Low-Tech Makerspace – Using tape, glue guns, recycled stuff, clothes pins, popsicle sticks, and more, imagine what you can create and make it happen! The Worthington Library. 413-238-5565. One Huntington Rd, Worthington, MA .
LITERACY/ STORYTIME . 3:30pm. Storytime with Julie – Storytime plus crafts and singing for children up to age 5. Tyler Memorial Library. 413-339-4335. 157 Main St, Charlemont, MA.
🐾 WILDLIFE/ TAIL CAMERAS . 4pm. Wildlife Connections using Trail Cameras – Join this BNRC-hosted online event to learn more about local wildlife. Camera specialist, Sally Naser of CR Wildlife Cams, will discuss using trail cameras to learn about our wildlife neighbors, including those in our own backyards. Learn how trail cameras work and tips on where to set them up to reveal the secret lives of wildlife. See beautiful and compelling photos and videos of wildlife in western and central Massachusetts and hear stories from the field along with tips on getting started. (Virtual )
PARENTING SUPPORT GROUP. 5pm. The Brick House Community Resource Center is hosting a parenting support group for any parents and guardians who want to connect. Free childcare. The Brick House. 413-800-2496. 24 3rd Street. Turners Falls, MA.
🌟 HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE . 5:30-8pm. Open House for Rising 9th-Grade Students and Parents – Overview of what Easthampton High School offers in their auditorium, followed by a sample schedule of 9th-grade classes. Meet 9th-grade teachers. No RSVP. Just show up and learn about EHS! Easthampton High School. 70 Williston Ave. Easthampton, MA.
🌟 ARTS & CRAFTS. 6:30pm. Teen Craft Night – February: Cinnamon Stick Macrame – Ages 12 and up. Westhampton Public Library. 413-527-5386. 1 N Rd, Westhampton, MA.
ROLLER SKATING . 7-9:30pm. Interskate 91. 413-586-8344. 367 Russell Street, Hampshire Mall, Hadley, MA .
🎶 MUSIC STUDIES/ JAZZ GUITAR. 7:30pm. Bobby Broom Trio -Hailed by the Chicago Tribune as “offering an object lesson in what an inventive jazz musician can do with a familiar song,” guitarist Bobby Broom is a five-time winner for best jazz guitarist in DownBeat magazine’s annual polls and has been defying conventions for four decades. UMass Bowker Auditorium (Stockbridge Hall). 413-545-0111. 100 Holdsworth Way, Amherst, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Great Backyard Bird Count
Native species are nature-based resources accessible to everyone, especially birds! Because they are so accessible, of all native animal species active during the winter, they are perhaps the most easily spotted in the snowy landscape of New England. Our fine feathered friends flock to feeders , leave tracks in fresh snow , and flit around in trees and bushes of backyards everywhere. And they are super delightful for supporting nature-based learning! Let your interests in ornithology, local habitat, conservation, and citizen science take flight this year by participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count ! Read more in our post, Great Backyard Bird Count Supports Nature-Based Learning What It’s Like to Be a Bird
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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2023
Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Public School South Hadley, MA, is accepting applications for grades 7-11 for the 2023/24 school year at www.pvpa.org/admissions . Application deadline: Feb 10, 2023. Lottery: Feb 17, 2023. PVPA is committed to supporting the Artist in every student! Students from over 50 towns in Grades 7-12 thrive in an arts-centered, creative, challenging learning environment. Join PVPA for an Open House and see why they are consistently voted one of the “Best Charter Schools in the Valley! ” No tuition or audition is required. Questions? Email admissions@pvpa.org or call 413-552-1580 x216 for more info.
PLAYGROUPS. Family Centers & Playgroups in Hilltowns & Pioneer Valley
PLAYGROUP . Northampton Parents Center
PLAYGROUPS. Family Center & Playgroups in Franklin County
PLAYGROUPS . Family Center & Playgroups in south Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS . Family Center & Playgroups in north Berkshire County
PLAYGROUPS . Home. City. Families. in Springfield
🍁 SUGAR SHACK/FAMILY MEAL . 7am-1pm. Maple Season Breakfast – Bring the family for a maple season breakfast that includes demonstrations of maple syrup rendering, tastings, and tours. North Hadley Sugar Shack. 413-585-8820. 181 River Drive. Hadley, MA.
OUTDOOR ICE SKATING. Daylight. Outdoor ice skating rink open at Lee Athletic Field. Lee, MA.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/ SNOWSHOEING . 8:30am-4pm. Ski Notchview – Renowned for its Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, there is something for everyone. Ski Notchview this winter and enjoy over 25 miles of trails. Half of the trails are groomed and track-set for classical cross-country skiing, and 5 miles are groomed for skate skiing. A separate trail system is for “skijoring” (aka skiing with dogs). Visitors can also snowshoe alongside the ski trails or go off track and explore the backcountry. Rentals are available. Notchview. 413-684-0148. 83 Old Route 9, Windsor, MA.
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.
CREATIVE FREE-PLAY/ INTERACTIVE MUSEUM . 9am-4pm. The Children’s Museum – Dedicated to enhancing children’s educational and cultural awareness through the arts, sciences, and the world around them. The Museum’s participatory exhibits and educational programming invite children and adults to interact and enjoy learning and self-discovery while at play. Young children almost always want to start on the Curvy Climber. And then, throughout the Museum, there are several other activities that older children might spend more time with, including the Legos Table, The Magna Tile Table, Maxi Rollways, and the Imagination Playground. There is also a state-of-the-art World of Motion room that stimulates children and adults’ curious minds. This room is STEM-based and encourages learning and play. Discover more at The Children’s Museum at Holyoke. 413-536-7048. 444 Dwight St, Holyoke, MA.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING/ SNOWSHOEING. 9am-4:30pm. Cross-Country Skiing at Northfield Mountain – Northfield Mountain has more than 25 miles of trails designed specifically for cross-country skiing and groomed for both classical and free-style skiing. Their trails offer some of the finest Nordic skiing in the region, from beginner trails to the demanding 800-foot vertical climb of Tenth Mountain Trail. A seasonal rental program for cross-country skis and snowshoes is available. Northfield Mountain. 413-659-3714. 99 Millers Falls Road, RT 63, Northfield, MA.
🌟 HOMESCHOOL/ NEW ENGLAND HISTORY 9:30am-4pm. Homeschool Days at Old Sturbridge Village. 800-733-1830. 1 Old Sturbridge Village Rd, Sturbridge, MA.
NEW ENGLAND HISTORY. 9:30am-4:30pm. Historic Deerfield – Founded in 1952, Historic Deerfield is an outdoor museum that interprets the history and culture of early New England and the Connecticut River Valley. Visitors can tour twelve carefully-preserved antique houses dating from 1730 to 1850 and explore world-class collections of regional furniture, silver, textiles, and other decorative arts on display in the authentic period houses; as well as the Flynt Center of Early New England Life, a state-of-the-art museum facility featuring exhibitions and a visible storage area. Support interests in history through the lens of architecture, New England antiques, arts and crafts needlework, ironware and basketry, cooking and baking, gardening, textiles, fashion, furniture, and much more! Historic Deerfield. 413-774-5581. 84 Old Main St, Deerfield, MA.
MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum – Ventfort Hall is an imposing Jacobean Revival-style mansion built in 1893 for Sarah Morgan, the sister of J. P. Morgan. It was one of the approximately seventy-five so-called “Cottages” built in Lenox in the late 19th century when the village became a popular Gilded Age resort. The museum can support interests in history and architecture, photography, film, art, and botany. Photography and film students can test their skills in the house, finding interesting areas to photograph. Art students are welcome to find a spot they enjoy and sketch, paint, and/or interpret the site as it fits their interests and studies. History classes may compare and contrast the architectural elements of Ventfort Hall with observations in their community. Botany students can investigate and identify trees and plants on the property that are of the era. And much more! Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. 413-637-3206. 104 Walker Street. Lenox, MA.
JEWISH CULTURE/ HISTORY. 10am-4pm. Yiddish Book Center – Learning about Jewish culture and history often leads parents and children to conversations about their family’s history, culture, and traditions. Part of The Center’s mission is to offer engaging learning opportunities for curious visitors of all ages who come to the expansive, sunny museum designed to resemble a shtetl (Eastern European Jewish small town), which sits in an apple orchard adjacent to the Hampshire College campus. Visitors don’t need to be able to read or speak Yiddish to enjoy the Center—although, by the visit’s end, they’ll realize they probably knew more Yiddish words than they thought (nosh , schmooze , and shlep are all Yiddish words commonly used in English), and leave knowing even more. Yiddish Book Center. 413-256-4900. 1021 West Street. Amherst, MA.
NATURAL HISTORY/MUSEUM ADVENTURES : 10am-4pm. The Beneski Museum of Natural History – One of New England’s largest natural history museums, featuring three floors of exhibits with more than 1,700 specimens on display. Step inside the museum, and you’ll find: Dramatic displays of fossil skeletons, from fish to dinosaurs to Ice Age megafauna, an extraordinary collection of local dinosaur footprints, geological specimens and immersive exhibits that tell the history of the local landscape through geologic time, including when dinosaurs inhabited the area, and dazzling mineral specimens from around the world and meteorites from beyond Earth. Beneski Museum of Natural History. 413-542-2165. Amherst College. 11 Barrett Hill Dr, Amherst, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-4pm. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art – A museum devoted to the art of picture books, especially children’s books. The Carle’s picture-book exhibitions showcase various artists, themes, and styles. Their three galleries host six original shows a year, so there is always something new! In addition to exploring art in the galleries, drop into the art studio to experience the creative joy of making art; explore new picture books, and rediscover old ones in their library. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. 413-559-6300. 125 W Bay Rd, Amherst, 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.
MUSEUMS ADVENTURES . 10am-5pm. Springfield Museums – The Springfield Museums uses art, history, science, and Dr. Seuss to explore our shared connections and unique perspectives to promote engagement, literacy, and learning. Located in the heart of downtown Springfield, the Springfield Museums offer access to five world-class museums, including the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, all under a single admission. The museums are community-based educational resources that can support interests and education in art studies, natural history, STEM, astronomy, zoology, geology, paleontology, ecology, history, and, of course, Dr. Seuss. Springfield Museums. 413-263-6800. 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES. 10am-6pm. The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) – One of the world’s liveliest centers for making and enjoying today’s most evocative art. With vast galleries and a stunning collection of indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, MASS MoCA embraces all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and new, boundary-crossing works of art that defy easy classification. MASS MoCA offers various participatory learning opportunities, including hands-on art-making classes and docent-guided tours. A must-visit for families is Kidspace, a child-centered art gallery and hands-on studio that offers in-depth art education. Visit the ArtBar, a hands-on studio space in Kidspace, to make art or take a project home with you. MASS MoCA. 413-662-2111.1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA.
PLAYGROUP . 10:30am. Sing and Dance – This program includes songs, music, and movement. No registration is required, and drop-ins are welcome! Bushnell-Sage Library. 413-229-7004. 48 Main St, Sheffield, MA.
ART STUDIES . 11am-4pm. Smith College Museum of Art (SCMA) – SCMA is recognized as a leading academic museum. Their collection comprises 27,000+ objects, representing the diversity of art and material culture across periods and geographies. Visitors can discover artworks from across periods and geographies in their permanent collection galleries and temporary exhibitions, engaging people with first-hand experiences of art, artists, and museum practice. The museum’s collection ranges from ancient Greek vases to contemporary video art. The works in their permanent collection galleries are regularly rotated, so there’s something new to see each time you visit. Special exhibitions highlight a dynamic range of artworks and artists. Smith College Museum of Art. 413-585-2760. 20 Elm Street at Bedford Terrace. Northampton, MA.
ART STUDIES/ MUSEUM ADVENTURES . 11am-5pm. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum – Located on the Mount Holyoke College campus, this Museum is one of the oldest teaching museums in the country, dedicated to providing firsthand experience with works of significant aesthetic and cultural value. The Museum offers pre- and post-visit educational materials designed for kids of all ages to maximize their learning potential while exploring the galleries and connecting art with their personal experiences, including walking and activity guides and educator resources. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum. 413-538-2245. 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA.
GRANDPARENTING SUPPORT . 1pm. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Tea Time, every 1st & 3rd Friday of the month, with Community Action’s Family Center. 413-475-1555. 90 Federal Street , Greenfield, MA .
⛸ ICE SKATING. 3:30-5:20pm. Public Ice Skate – Ice skating sessions for the public at UMass Mullins Center. Skate rentals are provided. Great opportunity to get moving on cold New England days! UMass Mullins Center. 413-545-3040. 200 Commonwealth Ave. Amherst, MA.
🎳 SPORTS/ BOWLING. 6-11pm. Vintage Candlepin Bowling & Bar – Bowling is a fun way to practice math skills and statistics while observing physics concepts, such as friction, torque, velocity, and gravity. Shelburne Falls Bowling Alley. 413-625-6179. 43 Bridge Street. Shelburne Falls, MA.
MUSIC STUDIES/ DRUMMING . 6:45pm. The Hilltown Intergenerational Drum Circle – All ages and beginners are welcome to this biweekly drum circle, led by Rosie Fanale. Call to confirm before heading over. Shelburne Senior Center. 413-625-8470. Shelburne Falls, MA.
🎭 THEATER STUDIES. 8-11pm. Exit 7 Players Presents: Clue – The classic board game is brought to life in Clue! Exit 7 Players Theater. 413-583-4301. 37 Chestnut St, Ludlow, MA.
MORE EVENTS : Discover more events on Hilltown Families’ Facebook page.
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Self-Directed Learning: Random Acts of Kindness
National Random Acts of Kindness Day is today, a day that encourages acts of kindness. Exploring books with kindness themes presents opportunities to learn about and discuss ways to show kindness to people, animals, the earth, and ourselves. Let today spark an exploration of the theme of kindness with one of our literary guides. Check out our featured titles and download your free guide: Literature in Context: A Literary Guide for Valentine’s Day & Kindness
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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, Bernardston, Buckland, Goshen, Greenfield , Hadley, Heath, Huntington, Lee, Montgomery, Northern Berkshire, Orange, Plainfield, Rowe, Shelburne, South Hadley, Southampton, Springfield, Washington, Westhampton, Windsor, and Worthington Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
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