Learn, Connect, and Strengthen a 
Sense of Place

Step into the rhythm of Western Massachusetts—where winding rivers, rolling hills, and vibrant community traditions connect within the seasons that shape a life rooted in place.

Subscribe to our free weekly eNewsletter

Each week, we share community events, self-directed learning ideas, and local resources—delivered right to your inbox. Sign up to explore, learn, and grow with your community all year round!

First Name(Required)
Last Name
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

hilltown families

Welcome to Hilltown Families

Your Guide to Learning Through Place & Community

Since 2005, Hilltown Families has been the thread that connects community, learning, and the seasonal rhythms of Western Massachusetts. From the plumes of steam rising from maple sap boiling in Hilltown sugar shacks to the sound of fiddles filling the air during summer lawn concerts on the commons, we help our community find meaningful ways to engage with the landscape, humanities, and food traditions that shape our region. Every Thursday, we share a curated list of intergenereational community events, inviting you to explore the forests, farms, festivals, and friendly faces that make Western Massachusetts a rich and vibrant place to grow, learn, and belong.

Learn Local. Play Local.

Suggested Events

Explore the region through community-based education and seasonal events for all ages.

Looking for things to do in Western Massachusetts? Each week, we highlight community gatherings, seasonal traditions, and place-based learning experiences that deepen your connection to the region. Explore local habitats through guided nature walks, delight in farm-fresh foods at farmers’ markets and harvest festivals, and immerse yourself in history and the arts with performances, museum exhibits, and reenactments. Our curated calendar of events bring learning to life, weaving together the land, traditions, and culture that make this region feel like home.

Browse Community Calendar
Habitat Exploring

Curiosity Begins Here

Follow your interests with self-directed learning ideas throughout the seasons.

Learning is woven into the world around us—in the flowing rivers and quiet forests, at bustling farmers’ markets, and through the traditions that shape our communities. Hilltown Families’ Self-Directed Learning ideas provide inspiration and resources for families to explore the seasonal landscape and local culture in meaningful ways. From winter wildlife tracking to uncovering the history and traditions of agricultural fairs, these experiences spark curiosity, nurture interests, and deepen our
 connection to place.

Spark Your Curiosity

Featured Opportunities

Explore Local Learning & Community Connections

Our directories help families find trusted resources, educational opportunities, and community spaces that encourage growth and creativity. Whether you’re searching for enrichment programs, summer camps, daycare, school, or the ideal birthday venue, you can discover everything you need right here in Western Massachusetts—where learning and play go hand in hand.

Your Guide to Summer Camps & Programs in Western Massachusetts

Summer in Western Massachusetts is a season filled with adventure, creativity, and exploration. Whether your child wants to scramble along river edges, gain confidence on stage, immerse themselves in farm life, or engage in hands-on STEM projects, our annual Summer Directory links families to the best local camps and enrichment programs in the region. With options for all ages, you’ll discover day camps, overnight experiences, and specialized programs that make summer truly unforgettable.

Thank You to Our Sponsors & Community Partners

Hilltown Families thrives thanks to the generous support of our community sponsors and advertisers. Their partnerships help keep this valuable resource free for families across Western Massachusetts. We invite you to discover the local businesses and organizations that are dedicated to enriching and strengthening our community.

Subscribe to our Weekly eNewsletter!

Stay connected and discover community-based events and self-directed learning ideas curated for curious minds of all ages. Our weekly eNewsletter helps families and lifelong learners turn local happenings into meaningful moments of learning, exploration, and community connection.
First Name(Required)
Last Name
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.