June 15, 2013 at 6:00 am (Recap Map, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Family Guide, Father's Day Weekend, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, Pioneer Valley, Spring, Weekend Guide, western massachusetts
Here’s a recap of news and information posted on Hilltown Families this past week, along with a map for finding out what’s happening this weekend and next week throughout Western MA!
MAP
Peruse our list of Suggested Events for June 15th-21st, 2013 for a comprehensive list of events happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, including: Best Bets, Bulletin Board, Hilltown Family Variety Show, and nearly 60 Summer Camp Options.
Also check our weekly column, Learn Local. Play Local. for 29 Community Highlights: Dragonflies to Damselflies. Father’s Day to Juneteenth., and our column, Berkshire Family Fun: June 2013, for a list of premier educational and cultural highlights in Berkshire County for families!
June 15th-21st, 2013
Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Historic Homes & Buildings ♦ Music Studies ♦ Lawn Concerts ♦ Animal & Insect Studies ♦ Plant Studies ♦ Library Adventures ♦ History ♦ Parent Workshops & Support
RECAP
In need of a night out? We’re giving away a 4-pack of lawn tickets for a Parents’ Night Out to see CHICAGO at Mountain Park in Holyoke on Friday, June 21st! You pay for the sitter, we’ll pay for the tickets!
Visit the Hilltown Families Facebook page and Twitter stream for more news and information!
FIVE FROM THE ARCHIVES
- Father’s Day Episode: Hilltown Family Variety Show (Podcast/Radio Show)
- 12 Tips for Live-Away Dads
- Q&A: Local Strawberries
- Food Allergies and Summer Camp
- Make Your Own Root Beers
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
June 14, 2013 at 6:00 am (Highlights, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Community Based Education, environmental education, evening concerts, experiential education, Family Activities in Western Massachusetts, Father's Day, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Massachusetts, New England, pedagogy of place, picnic dinners, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, place-based learning, staycation, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourisim, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
Dragonfly or damselfly? Learn how to tell the difference between these two insects this weekend at the Mills River Environmental Center and the benefits they contribute to our larger ecosystem.
Dragonflies to Damselflies. The Hundred Dresses to The Hunger Games. Naturalists to Musicians. Father’s Day to Juneteenth… These are just a few of the learning highlights we’re featuring this week! Peruse our list below and make plans to get out into your community and learn while you play!
Happy Father’s Day!
On Father’s Day this Sunday, June 16th, dads and grandfathers with younger kids can enjoy a free train ride at Look Park in Florence, or Forest Park Zoo in Springfield. Or take an even bigger free train ride at the Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum. Other locations honoring dads and granddads on Father’s Day include Historic Deerfield and Old Sturbridge Village, both of which will offer free admission on Sunday, and a free ride on the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round. Check our Best Bets for Father’s Day highlights for more ways to spend time with the dad in your life this weekend in western Massachusetts!
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
June 13, 2013 at 6:00 am (Suggested Events)
Tags: Berkshires, Family, Family Activities, Family Events, Father's Day, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, outdoors, Pioneer Valley, Things to do, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourism, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.
BEST BETS FOR FATHER’S DAY: Sunday, June 16th
Hilltown Families and Iron Horse Entertainment Group have partnered up to offer a chance to win free tickets to see adult venues in the Pioneer Valley for a PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT! You pay for the sitter, we’ll pay for the tickets! On Friday, June 21st at Mountain Park in Holyoke is Chicago, winner of the Grammy’s Lifetime Achievement Award… and we’re giving away a 4-pack of lawn tickets for a group of friends to enjoy an evening out! Win the tickets and take your spouse, partner and gang of BFF’s for a fun evening away from the kids! Deadline to enter to win is Tuesday, 06/18/13 @ 7pm (EST). Details here.
In Berkshire County from 8:30am-11:30am – NATURAL HISTORY & OUTDOOR ADVENTURE: Canoe the Housatonic River through Bartholomew’s Cobble on a Father’s Day canoe trip. Participants will learn about the river’s habitats and history while experiencing the many sights and sounds offered by this beautiful part of New England. 413-229-8600. 105 Weatogue Road. Sheffield, MA. $$
In Hampshire County at 1pm – COMMUNITY EVENT: All are invited to attend One Billion Fathers Rising, an event hosted by Umoja Now, that works to end violence and abuse in all communities across the globe. There will be live poetry, music, and theatrical performances, as well as speakers. Please bring a chair and come prepared to learn and make a difference in the world. 129 Main Street. Northampton, MA.
In Franklin County at 2pm – MUSIC/CULTURAL STUDIES: Come celebrate Father’s Day and the upcoming Summer Solstice with Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center and Gaia Roots World Music at Unity Park in Turners Falls. There will be demonstrations of Caribbean and West African rhythms, instruments, and songs. People of all ages can then try their hand at drumming in a community music jam. Please bring your own chair. 800-859-2960. First Street. Turners Falls, MA. (FREE)
In Hampden County at 6pm - LAWN CONCERT: The Westfield Bank Sunday Night Concert Series at Stanley Park’s Beveridge Pavilion Annex is a great place to relax on the lawn with the family. Pack a picnic dinner and come to the Park to enjoy live music, community, and time with the dad in your life! Chairs available. 413-568-9312. 400 Western Avenue. Westfield, MA. (FREE)
BULLETIN BOARD
Jun 17
Little Bear Learn & Care is having a Preschool Open House on Monday, June 17th from 6-7:30pm. LBLC is located at 184 Northampton Street in Easthampton and all are welcome. Come visit their center and meet the teachers. Little Bear’s philosophy stresses that the preschool years are vital in developing skills needed to be successful later in life. The curriculum provides meaningful experiences which encourage development in social/emotional, physical and cognitive areas. The children’s interests lead the teachers in designing activities which actively involve them in the learning process. Limited slots are available for our summer and fall programs. Contact info: www.littlebearlearn.com/ maurybear@gmail.com You can also find them on Facebook!
Jun 22 & 23
Our Shire’s beloved Mutton & Mead Tavern & Inne will be hosting its annual festival for your merriment. Enjoy the realm’s finest Entertainers as the legend of Robin Hood unfolds around you! Witness the daring spectacle of Knights Jousting, and hear the dulcet tones of minstrels songs. Stroll the enchanted paths of Sherwood Forest, encountering faeries, pixies and wood sprites. Adorn yourself with Merchants’ wares. Feast on the kingdom’s best Victuals, Meads and Ales. A Fundraiser for the Montague Common Hall & The Foodbank of Western Mass. Bring canned goods for a discount at the gate! June 22-23, 10am-6pm, 210 Turners Falls Road, Montague, MA. $15 Adults, $10 Kids and Seniors. Visit www.MuttonAndMead.com for details. Huzzah!
Reg deadline: Jun 23
Music Together® for Valley Families offers music and movement classes for 0 – 5 year olds and the grownups who love them.Their summer session begins July 1, 2013 in Amherst, Belchertown and South Hadley. Beloved by millions of families and early childhood educators, the program is now taught in 48 states and 40 other countries and is celebrating their 25 anniversary! Pioneering the idea of research based, developmentally appropriate early childhood music education, it emphasizes and facilitates caregiver involvement in a child’s musical growth. Registration deadline: June 23. Limited financial aid available. Contact: 413-259-9400, www.valleymusicgroup.com and on Facebook.
Jun 24 – Aug 16
The Bement School offers a wide variety of summer programs for students from 15 months to 15 years. Located on a beautiful campus in historic Deerfield, Bement’s programs combine the summer fun of a traditional day camp with field trips and enrichment programs. The Preschool Program provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for the youngest campers. Adventures in Chinese is a full-day Chinese language and culture program. The Adventure Camp offers games, crafts, swimming, and field trips. The Junior Counselor Program gives teens experience working with children, developing valuable job skills, and enjoying summer fun. Summer programs run from June 24 to August 16. Call 413-774-7061 or visit bement.org/summer for more information.
Cooley Dickinson Hospital: After a career coaching and playing ice hockey, Don “Toot” Cahoon couldn’t even tie his shoes without agonizing pain. A few months after getting a new hip from the Joint Replacement Center at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, he was walking, jogging, biking and skating pain free. The Joint Replacement at Cooley is second to none. It has a spectacular record in terms of safety and infections. Those are two very serious considerations when you are having a procedure like this. To hear the rest of Toot’s success story and hear from other patients, visit www.TheTalkIsGood.com.
Cooley Dickinson Childbirth Center: Voted “Best” Again in the Valley Advocate’s Readers Poll. For Granby residents Alyssa and Philip LaFlamme, Cooley Dickinson’s Childbirth Center was the comfortable choice. “From the moment I called to say I was on my way, I felt reassured and well taken care of,” said Alyssa, who praises labor and delivery nurse Terri Jay who “helped keep me calm when I had a few moments of panic.” Alyssa consistently received personalized care. “My friends have gone other places and they say they feel like a number at other hospitals.” The LaFlammes are not alone in their choice. For the third consecutive year, families have voted the Childbirth Center the Best Birthing Center in the Valley Advocate’s Readers’ Poll.
ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
June 15th-21st, 2013
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
June 11, 2013 at 1:00 pm (Berkshire County, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshires, Family Friendly Hikes, flora and fauna, greylock state reservation, Hiking, Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Mount Greylock State Reservation, Nature Based Learning, park interpreters, western massachusetts
9 Hiking Adventures For All Ages in the Berkshires
Join state park interpreters this summer for fun, family-friendly explorations on Mount Greylock State Reservation. For all programs, be prepared for weather, bring a snack and water. Sponsored by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information contact 413-499-4262.
Get outside and explore a local mountain (and landmark!) with the family this summer! The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation is offering nearly ten different weekly hikes throughout the summer at Mount Greylock State Reservation, the highest point in the state of Massachusetts. Families of all ages and hiking abilities will find multiple opportunities each week to venture to various parts of the reservation – hikes highlight everything from waterfalls to local flora and fauna, hiking and woods skills to summit habitats.
Families with young children can introduce small kiddos to the wonder of the natural world and the fun of hiking at the weekly Tyke Hike, an easy and slow woods adventure that ends with a nature-themed storytime. Older kids can enjoy more strenuous hikes or take part in Hiking 101, designed to teach confidence on the trails and equip participants with the skills necessary to become seasoned hikers.
Along with introducing kids to the love hiking, the weekly adventures provide families with regular opportunities to engage with and learn about their local surroundings…
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
June 8, 2013 at 6:00 am (Recap Map, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Family Guide, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, Pioneer Valley, Spring, Weekend Guide, western massachusetts
Here’s a recap of news and information posted on Hilltown Families this past week, along with a map for finding out what’s happening this weekend and next week throughout Western MA!
MAP
Peruse our list of Suggested Events for June 8th-14th, 2013 for a comprehensive list of events happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, including: Best Bets, Bulletin Board, Hilltown Family Variety Show, and over 55 Summer Camp Options.
Also check our weekly column, Learn Local. Play Local. for 36 Community Highlights: Hermits to Fairies. Tornadoes to Dioramas., and our column, Berkshire Family Fun: June 2013, for a list of premier educational and cultural highlights in Berkshire County for families!
June 8th-14th, 2013
Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Indoor Adventures ♦ History ♦ Animal Studies ♦ Nature Studies ♦ Outdoor Adventures ♦ Meteorology ♦ Museum Adventures ♦ Engineering ♦ Occupational Science ♦ Music Studies ♦ Community Service
RECAP
In need of a night out? We’re giving away a 4-pack of lawn tickets for a Parents’ Night Out to see CHICAGO at Mountain Park in Holyoke on Friday, June 21st! You pay for the sitter, we’ll pay for the tickets!
Visit the Hilltown Families Facebook page and Twitter stream for more news and information!
FIVE FROM THE ARCHIVES
- Q&A: End of the Year Teacher Appreciation Gifts
- Western MA Folk Remedies for Stress
- How Does Your Sunscreen Rate?
- 12 Baseball Books for Kids
- 8 Featured Music CDs for Your Summer Family Road Trip
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
June 7, 2013 at 6:00 am (Highlights, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Community Based Education, environmental education, evening concerts, experiential education, Family Activities in Western Massachusetts, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Massachusetts, New England, pedagogy of place, picnic dinners, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, place-based learning, staycation, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourisim, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
Lawn concerts in the summer are lovely opportunities to enjoy a picnic dinner together with your family, and your community! We’ll be adding lawn concerts to our list of weekly Suggested Events throughout the summer, from the Berkshires down to the Valley. Check there each week and make plans for a fun family dinner, al fresco style!
Hermits to Tornadoes. Fairies to Snow White. Lawn Concerts to Kayaking… These are just a few of the learning highlights we’re featuring this week! Peruse our list below and make plans to get out into your community and learn while you play!
LAWN CONCERTS
Summer evening lawn concerts are a lovely way for families to enjoy an al fresco dinner together, in the warm air with live music. BYO picnic dinners and chairs to the following free evening concerts this week and enjoy time together with your family and community:
- Concert Series at Stanley Park in Westfield presents Shakin’ All Over, one of New England’s premier dance bands, on Sunday evening, June 9th.
- Musical Moments at Amelia’s Garden in Westfield presents Dan Kane and Friends, who will be performing Broadway classics, on Tuesday evening, June 11th.
- Coop Concerts Summer Series takes place on Thursday evening, June 13th at Greenfield Energy Park. This week’s show features Devlin Miles, Orlen & Gabriel, and Pat & Tex LaMountain Band. Each group will perform a range of music, including love songs, folk tunes, jazz, blues, ragtime, and country music.
- Arts in the Park Summer Concert Series happens at Millside Park in Easthampton on Friday evening, June 14th.
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
June 6, 2013 at 6:00 am (Suggested Events)
Tags: Berkshires, Family, Family Activities, Family Events, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, outdoors, Pioneer Valley, Things to do, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourism, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, self-post your event at any time on our “Suggest An Event” bulletin board. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.
WEEKEND BEST BET
Saturday, June 8th in Franklin County from 10am-4pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: The 25th annual RiverFest is here! Come celebrate the Deerfield River by participating in arts and crafts workshops, the Frog and Flower Parade, birds of prey demonstration, live music, observing aquatic insects, and much more. This annual event is great fun for the entire family and gives you the chance to be involved in the community while celebrating, and learning about, this amazing watershed! Bridge Street. Shelburne Falls, MA. (FREE)
Saturday, June 8th in Hampden County from 1pm-11pm – COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: The Rotary Club of West Springfield presents West Side’s Taste of the Valley 2013. This event includes food from area restaurants, live music, rides and games for kids and teens, animal rides, and a petting zoo. Bring the whole family and enjoy a weekend of fun for all. 413-883-5900. Park Street Town Common. West Springfield, MA.
Saturday, June 8th in Hampshire County from 3pm-8pm - COMMUNITY CELEBRATION/ARTS: Arthampton and Art Walk Easthampton will feature puppet shows, live music, theatrical performances, and a sidewalk parade. There will also be exhibitions, a fundraiser for the Pascommuck Land Trust, and more! 413-527-8278. 43 Main Street. Easthampton, MA. (FREE)
Sunday, June 9th in Berkshire County from 11am-3pm: COMMUNITY DAY: Bring the family and spend the day at The Mount! Tour this historic home, explore their magnificent gardens and trails, and take in the surroundings. Scavenger hunts, story times, and other activities throughout the day. A great way to discover this Berkshire County treasure with the kids! 413-551-5111. 2 Plunkett Street. Lenox, MA (FREE)
BULLETIN BOARD
Jun 8
(Image © Ruth Sanderson)
Children’s Book Festival: A Fairy Garden Celebration. On Saturday, June 8th, grab your wings and come celebrate the magical world of fairies and gnomes at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, MA from 10am-5pm! Join local authors and illustrators for a fun day of building fairy houses, creating apple head elfin puppets and learning how to draw a dragon. Plus storytimes and book signings! See the Galapagos Puppets perform, Badger Meets the Fairies. Be inspired by the world of fantasy, the magic of fairy tales, and the natural world during their annual Children’s Book Festival. Fairy and gnome inspired costumes are welcome! Visit www.carlemuseum.org for the day’s schedule or call 413-658-1126.
Jun 12
Medical Issues in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Wednesday, June 12, 6 pm. Free. Dakin Conference Room with Ann Neumeyer, MD, Child Neurologist, Medical Director of the Lurie Center for Autism at Massachusetts General Hospital and MassGeneral Hospital for Children, Assistant Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, and Peter Kenny, MD, Pediatrician, Northampton Area Pediatrics. In her lecture about autism spectrum disorders, Dr. Ann Neumeyer will discuss what autism is. She will explain that there are medical conditions that can affect children with autism, such as sleep disorders, seizures and gastrointestinal disease, and discuss some methods for detecting and understanding these conditions.
Jun 12
On Wednesday, June 12th, from 7:00-8:30 pm, Dr. Robert Davis, psychologist and director of the Brain Analysis & NeuroDevelopment (BAND) Centers in Florence and Amherst will be offering a free presentation at the Cup & Top in Florence on the use of Neurotherapy, a neuroscience-based approach to reducing or eliminating symptoms associated with attention, learning, behavior and mood disorders. Neurotherapy is a safe, effective, non-invasive and medication-free form of treatment and was recently ranked by the American Academy of Pediatrics as a ‘Level 1’ treatment for ADHD, (i.e., equal or greater in effectiveness to medication, behavior therapy and parent training). For more information, visit the BAND Center website at: www.bandcenterllc.com.
Jun 17
Little Bear Learn & Care is having a Preschool Open House on Monday, June 17th from 6-7:30pm. LBLC is located at 184 Northampton Street in Easthampton and all are welcome. Come visit their center and meet the teachers. Little Bear’s philosophy stresses that the preschool years are vital in developing skills needed to be successful later in life. The curriculum provides meaningful experiences which encourage development in social/emotional, physical and cognitive areas. The children’s interests lead the teachers in designing activities which actively involve them in the learning process. Limited slots are available for our summer and fall programs. Contact info: www.littlebearlearn.com/ maurybear@gmail.com You can also find them on Facebook!
Jun 24 – Aug 16
The Bement School offers a wide variety of summer programs for students from 15 months to 15 years. Located on a beautiful campus in historic Deerfield, Bement’s programs combine the summer fun of a traditional day camp with field trips and enrichment programs. The Preschool Program provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for the youngest campers. Adventures in Chinese is a full-day Chinese language and culture program. The Adventure Camp offers games, crafts, swimming, and field trips. The Junior Counselor Program gives teens experience working with children, developing valuable job skills, and enjoying summer fun. Summer programs run from June 24 to August 16. Call 413-774-7061 or visit bement.org/summer for more information.
ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
June 8th-14th, 2013
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
June 1, 2013 at 6:00 am (Recap Map, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Family Guide, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, Pioneer Valley, Spring, Weekend Guide, western massachusetts
Here’s a recap of news and information posted on Hilltown Families this past week, along with a map for finding out what’s happening this weekend and next week throughout Western MA!
MAP
7th annual Hilltown Spring Festival happens this Saturday, June 1st from 10am-5pm at the Cummington Fairgrounds!
Peruse our list of Suggested Events for June 1st-7th, 2013 for a comprehensive list of events happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, including: Best Bets, Bulletin Board, Hilltown Family Variety Show, and over 50 Summer Camp Options.
Also check our weekly column, Learn Local. Play Local. for 25 Community Highlights: Spring Festival to Bugaboo Review. Ponding to Nature Walks., and our column, Berkshire Family Fun: June 2013, for a list of premier educational and cultural highlights in Berkshire County for families!
June 1st-7th, 2013
Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Culinary Arts ♦ History ♦ Nature Studies ♦ Etiquette ♦ National Trails Day ♦ Community Service ♦ Science ♦ Bugs & Birds ♦ Parent Workshops ♦ Parents’ Night Out
RECAP
Visit the Hilltown Families Facebook page and Twitter stream for more news and information!
FIVE FROM THE ARCHIVES
- 16 Swimming Holes in Western MA
- Let’s Play: Miniature Playhouses & Creative Free Play
- 3 Recipes from the Spring Garden
- HFVS Guest DJ, Joe & Justin of The Okee Dokee Brothers Episode (Radio Show/Podcast)
- I Spy Nature Science: Citizen Scientists Wanted
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 31, 2013 at 6:00 am (Highlights, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Community Based Education, education for sustainability, environmental education, experiential education, Family Activities in Western Massachusetts, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Massachusetts, New England, pedagogy of place, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, place-based learning, staycation, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourisim, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
Come to the Hilltown Spring Festival on Saturday, June 1st and join in a community Maypole dance! Originating in the 18th century, families can learn about this traditional folk dance by dancing around with ribbons in hand, intertwining and plaiting the ribbons to the pole with their community. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
Afternoon Tea to Cooking Classes. Ponding to Nature Walks. Cellar Holes to Headstones. Knitting Marathon to Bugaboo Review… These are just a few of the learning highlights we’re featuring this week! Peruse our list below and make plans to get out into your community and learn while you play!
Learning Highlights at the Hilltown Spring Festival
The 7th annual Hilltown Spring Festival happens this Saturday, June 1st from 10am-5pm at the Cummington Fairgrounds. In addition to great fun and terrific music on multiple stages, there are always learning opportunities at the Festival! New this year is Joshua Wachtel’s Musical Instrument Petting Zoo. Families can come touch and play a variety of instruments, including a mountain dulcimer, Moroccan bongos, a Turkish banjo called a cumbus, autoharp, flutes and many others, including Sir Planks-a-lot (a man-sized xylophone made of 2x4s!). Other learning highlights include four different music workshops, including a couple of interactive intergenerational workshops! Aimee Gelinas will lead a West African and Caribbean percussion & song workshop, and Tony Vacca leads a world music percussion workshop. All of this and so much more, like the Kids-Made Craft Bazaar where youth get to participate directly in the Festival, giving them some real-world experience showing and selling their work. Find out more about the 7th annual Hilltown Spring Festival.
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 30, 2013 at 6:01 am (Suggested Events)
Tags: Berkshires, Family, Family Activities, Family Events, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, Memorial Day Weekend, New England, outdoors, Pioneer Valley, Things to do, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourism, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
7th annual Hilltown Spring Festival happens this Saturday, June 1st from 10am-5pm at the Cummington Fairgrounds. Get a taste of the Hilltowns at this family-friendly festival with live music on two stages, musical workshops, dancing around the Maypole, Morris Dancers, music petting zoo, kids-made craft bazaar, vendors, food and much more! (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.
WEEKEND BEST BET
Saturday, June 1st – Hilltown Spring Festival: The Hilltown CDC’s Hilltown Spring Festival on June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds will be a combined music festival, food festival, children’s festival, craft festival, and alternative energy exposition! Music for children of all ages will be performed by Mister G, David Grover and Terry A La Berry. Other musical performers include percussionist Tony Vacca, acoustic string band Appalachian Still, singer-songwriter Heather Maloney, the Lonesome Brothers, Hot Day at the Zoo, the Walkin’ Blues Band, & Dan Hales and the Frost Heaves. There will be children’s activities all day long, music workshops for families, dancing around the Maypole, children selling hand-made crafts at the Kids-Made Crafts Bazaar, 8 foot tall puppets, Morris dancers, & much more. Cummington Fairgrounds. Cummington, MA (>$)
BULLETIN BOARD
May 31 – Jun 2
FREE Event: Experience the World of Art, Music, and Culture on the Amherst Common, May 31st (12-6), June 1st and 2nd (10-6) at the Cultural Survival Bazaar. A FREE Festival of Native Arts & Cultures from around the world. Shop handmade, fairly traded art, jewelry, clothing, crafts, decor, tribal rugs & more. Featuring guest artisans from Africa, Asia, and the Americas, music of Ecuador and Mali. Enjoy FREE music performances, craft-making demos and Tibetan cuisine. Proceeds support Native artisans, fair trade & Cultural Survival’s nonprofit work worldwide. For special features, artisan profiles, performance schedule, and other dates & locations visit their website at http://www.bazaar.cs.org Amherst Common on Boltwood Ave. Click Here for Preview
Jun 8
(Image © Ruth Sanderson)
Children’s Book Festival: A Fairy Garden Celebration. On Saturday, June 8th, grab your wings and come celebrate the magical world of fairies and gnomes at The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, MA from 10am-5pm! Join local authors and illustrators for a fun day of building fairy houses, creating apple head elfin puppets and learning how to draw a dragon. Plus storytimes and book signings! See the Galapagos Puppets perform, Badger Meets the Fairies. Be inspired by the world of fantasy, the magic of fairy tales, and the natural world during their annual Children’s Book Festival. Fairy and gnome inspired costumes are welcome! Visit www.carlemuseum.org for the day’s schedule or call 413-658-1126.
Jun 8 & Jun 15
Coming soon: Hilltown Idols! An adult & child karaoke competition/fundraiser for the Williamsburg Elementary School. Auditions are Sat., 6/8, with the Final Performance on Sat., 6/15 at 7pm at the Williamsburg Grange in Williamsburg. The competition is open to children & adults from near and far! There are four competition groups: Grades 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, & Adults. Prizes will be awarded to winners. Entry fee for contestants in Grades 3-12 is $5.00 & $25.00 for adults. Register by 6/1! Tickets for audience members on 6/8 are $2/individual or $5/family for the day. Tickets for the Final Performance on 6/15 are $5(Ages 3-18), $10(Adults), or $20 per family. See https://sites.google.com/site/hilltownidols for details.
Jun 12
Medical Issues in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Wednesday, June 12, 6 pm. Free. Dakin Conference Room with Ann Neumeyer, MD, Child Neurologist, Medical Director of the Lurie Center for Autism at Massachusetts General Hospital and MassGeneral Hospital for Children, Assistant Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, and Peter Kenny, MD, Pediatrician, Northampton Area Pediatrics. In her lecture about autism spectrum disorders, Dr. Ann Neumeyer will discuss what autism is. She will explain that there are medical conditions that can affect children with autism, such as sleep disorders, seizures and gastrointestinal disease, and discuss some methods for detecting and understanding these conditions.
Jun 12
On Wednesday, June 12th, from 7:00-8:30 pm, Dr. Robert Davis, psychologist and director of the Brain Analysis & NeuroDevelopment (BAND) Centers in Florence and Amherst will be offering a free presentation at the Cup & Top in Florence on the use of Neurotherapy, a neuroscience-based approach to reducing or eliminating symptoms associated with attention, learning, behavior and mood disorders. Neurotherapy is a safe, effective, non-invasive and medication-free form of treatment and was recently ranked by the American Academy of Pediatrics as a ‘Level 1’ treatment for ADHD, (i.e., equal or greater in effectiveness to medication, behavior therapy and parent training). For more information, visit the BAND Center website at: www.bandcenterllc.com.
Jun 24 – Aug 16
The Bement School offers a wide variety of summer programs for students from 15 months to 15 years. Located on a beautiful campus in historic Deerfield, Bement’s programs combine the summer fun of a traditional day camp with field trips and enrichment programs. The Preschool Program provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for the youngest campers. Adventures in Chinese is a full-day Chinese language and culture program. The Adventure Camp offers games, crafts, swimming, and field trips. The Junior Counselor Program gives teens experience working with children, developing valuable job skills, and enjoying summer fun. Summer programs run from June 24 to August 16. Call 413-774-7061 or visit bement.org/summer for more information.
Cooley Dickinson Childbirth Center: Voted “Best” Again in the Valley Advocate’s Readers Poll. For Granby residents Alyssa and Philip LaFlamme, Cooley Dickinson’s Childbirth Center was the comfortable choice. “From the moment I called to say I was on my way, I felt reassured and well taken care of,” said Alyssa, who praises labor and delivery nurse Terri Jay who “helped keep me calm when I had a few moments of panic.” Alyssa consistently received personalized care. “My friends have gone other places and they say they feel like a number at other hospitals.” The LaFlammes are not alone in their choice. For the third consecutive year, families have voted the Childbirth Center the Best Birthing Center in the Valley Advocate’s Readers’ Poll.
ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
June 1st-7th, 2013
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 30, 2013 at 6:00 am (Berkshire County, Berkshire Family Fun, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshire County Family Events, Berkshires, Community Based Education, Family Activities in Western Massachusetts, Great Barrington, Massachusetts, New England, North Adams, place-based education, Stockbridge, Summer in the Berkshires, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Western MA, western massachusetts, Williamstown
Berkshire County Highlights for Families: June 2013
Find out about community events and learning opportunities happening throughout Berkshire County for the month of June. We’ll be adding to this list as the month progresses, so be sure to check back each week:
• North Berkshire
• Central Berkshire
• South Berkshire
To find out what’s happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, check our comprehensive list of Weekly Suggested Events, published every Thursday! There you will also find our list of ongoing weekday playgroups, storyhours and events both in Berkshire County and throughout the region.
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 28, 2013 at 6:00 am (Hampshire County, Hilltown Families, Hilltown Spring Festival, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshires, Hilltown Community Development Corporation, Hilltowns, Music Festival, Pioneer Valley, Spring Festival, western massachusetts
The Hilltown CDC’s 7th Annual Hilltown Spring Festival will be on Saturday, June 1st, 2013 at the Cummington Fairgrounds from 10am-5pm! 2,000 people are expected at the Hilltown Spring Festival this year and entertainment will include musical performances and workshops, exhibits by artists and craftspeople, displays by local businesses, food from local vendors, kids-made craft bazaar, children’s activities and much more.
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 25, 2013 at 6:00 am (Recap Map, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Family Guide, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, Memorial Day Weekend, New England, Pioneer Valley, Spring, Weekend Guide, western massachusetts
Here’s a recap of news and information posted on Hilltown Families this past week, along with a map for finding out what’s happening this weekend and next week throughout Western MA!
MAP
Mark your calendars! The Hilltown Spring Festival happens next Saturday, June 1st from 10am-5pm at the Cummington Fairground!
Peruse our list of Suggested Events for May 25th-31st, 2013 for a comprehensive list of events happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, including: Best Bets, Mark Your Calendars, Bulletin Board, Hilltown Family Variety Show, and over 50 Summer Camp Options.
Also check our weekly column, Learn Local. Play Local. for 35 Community Highlights: Rhubarb to Butterflies. Turtles to Trolley., and our column, Berkshire Family Fun: May 2013, for a list of premier educational and cultural highlights in Berkshire County for families!
May 25th-31st, 2013
Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Weekend Highlights ♦ History ♦ Transportation ♦ Animal Studies ♦ Science ♦ Entomology ♦ Geology ♦ Nature Studies ♦ Parent Workshops
RECAP
Visit the Hilltown Families Facebook page and Twitter stream for more news and information!
FIVE FROM THE ARCHIVES
- 13 Ways to Spend a Rainy Day in Western MA
- Little Homes for Little Folks: Make Your Own Gnome Home
- Q&A: Where Do Babies Come From?
- 8 Ways to Create Engaging Engineering Activities at Home
- Q&A: Best Cup of Joe in Western MA?
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 24, 2013 at 6:00 am (Suggested Activity, Highlights)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Community Based Education, education for sustainability, environmental education, experiential education, Family Activities in Western Massachusetts, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Massachusetts, Memorial Day, memorial day parades, Mother's Day, New England, pedagogy of place, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, place-based learning, staycation, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourisim, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
It’s all turtles, all day long at Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary on Saturday in Hampden for Turtle Day! Visit to meet a real, live turtle and to learn about the species of turtles native to Massachusetts. Then, visitors will be able to go on a natural history walk of the sanctuary’s grounds to learn about how the landscape was formed and to learn about turtle habitat. Free. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
Rhubarb to Butterflies. Bedrock to Marble. Turtles to Trolley… These are just a few of the learning highlights we’re featuring this week! Peruse our list and make plans to get out into your community and learn while you play!
Community Highlights
There’s fun stuff happening over the next few days! Down in the Pioneer Valley, families can check out the Amherst Town Fair on the Common all weekend, and take in a concert with Mister G at the Eric Carle Museum on Saturday. Also in the Valley, Look Park in Florence turns on all their amenities too, including their water park and paddle boats! In the Hilltowns, the Massachusetts Sheep & Woolcraft Fair happens all weekend at the at the Cummington Fairgrounds with loads of hands-on learning opportunities, fiber arts, and animals. Out in the Berkshires, there’s a Community Bike Ride in Pittsfield, Rhubarb Festival in Lenox and HoorWA’s annual Riverfest in Williamstown. Then on Monday are Memorial Day Parades in various town across the region! Check out our short list of parade highlights!
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 23, 2013 at 6:00 am (Suggested Events)
Tags: Berkshires, Family, Family Activities, Family Events, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, Memorial Day Weekend, New England, outdoors, Pioneer Valley, Things to do, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourism, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.
BEST BETS: May 25th & 26th
Saturday & Sunday, May 25th & 26th from 9am-4pm – FIBER/FESTIVAL: The 39th Annual Massachusetts Sheep & Woolcraft Fair happens at the Cummington Fairgrounds. Loads of learning opportunities for the kids. Fiber and woolcraft vendors, sheep shearing demonstrations, sheep dog trials, fiber and woolcraft workshops for adults and children, sheep shows, fleece show and sale, fleece to shawl competition, and food booths. 413-238-5902. Fairgrounds Road. Cummington, MA (>$)
Saturday, May 25th at 11am and 1pm – KIDS’ CONCERT: Mister G rocks the Eric Carle Museum today! The acclaimed children’s musician presents Bailamos!, a bilingual dance party featuring songs from his incredibly popular albums Chocolala and Bugs. 413-658-1126. 125 West Bay Road. Amherst, MA. ($)
Sunday, May 26th from 10am-4pm – TRANSPORTATION/HISTORY: Chesterwood, a National Trust Historic Site, host their Vintage Motorcar Festival. Families can get a glimpse into history by viewing vintage vehicles on display. Kids can join in a car scavenger hunt and put their STEM skills to practice in LEGO car racing. Youth ages 15yo+ can also participate as judges of displayed vehicles. There will be live music, local foods and a nice afternoon at this national treasure! 413-298-3579. 4 Williamsville Road. Stockbridge, MA ($)
BULLETIN BOARD
May 31 – Jun 2
FREE Event: Experience the World of Art, Music, and Culture on the Amherst Common, May 31st (12-6), June 1st and 2nd (10-6) at the Cultural Survival Bazaar. A FREE Festival of Native Arts & Cultures from around the world. Shop handmade, fairly traded art, jewelry, clothing, crafts, decor, tribal rugs & more. Featuring guest artisans from Africa, Asia, and the Americas, music of Ecuador and Mali. Enjoy FREE music performances, craft-making demos and Tibetan cuisine. Proceeds support Native artisans, fair trade & Cultural Survival’s nonprofit work worldwide. For special features, artisan profiles, performance schedule, and other dates & locations visit their website at http://www.bazaar.cs.org Amherst Common on Boltwood Ave. Click Here for Preview
Jun 8 & Jun 15
Coming soon: Hilltown Idols! An adult & child karaoke competition/fundraiser for the Williamsburg Elementary School. Auditions are Sat., 6/8, with the Final Performance on Sat., 6/15 at 7pm at the Williamsburg Grange in Williamsburg. The competition is open to children & adults from near and far! There are four competition groups: Grades 3-5, 6-8, 9-12, & Adults. Prizes will be awarded to winners. Entry fee for contestants in Grades 3-12 is $5.00 & $25.00 for adults. Register by 6/1! Tickets for audience members on 6/8 are $2/individual or $5/family for the day. Tickets for the Final Performance on 6/15 are $5(Ages 3-18), $10(Adults), or $20 per family. See https://sites.google.com/site/hilltownidols for details.
Jun 24 – Aug 16
The Bement School offers a wide variety of summer programs for students from 15 months to 15 years. Located on a beautiful campus in historic Deerfield, Bement’s programs combine the summer fun of a traditional day camp with field trips and enrichment programs. The Preschool Program provides a safe, nurturing camp experience for the youngest campers. Adventures in Chinese is a full-day Chinese language and culture program. The Adventure Camp offers games, crafts, swimming, and field trips. The Junior Counselor Program gives teens experience working with children, developing valuable job skills, and enjoying summer fun. Summer programs run from June 24 to August 16. Call 413-774-7061 or visit bement.org/summer for more information.
Cooley Dickinson Childbirth Center: Voted “Best” Again in the Valley Advocate’s Readers Poll. For Granby residents Alyssa and Philip LaFlamme, Cooley Dickinson’s Childbirth Center was the comfortable choice. “From the moment I called to say I was on my way, I felt reassured and well taken care of,” said Alyssa, who praises labor and delivery nurse Terri Jay who “helped keep me calm when I had a few moments of panic.” Alyssa consistently received personalized care. “My friends have gone other places and they say they feel like a number at other hospitals.” The LaFlammes are not alone in their choice. For the third consecutive year, families have voted the Childbirth Center the Best Birthing Center in the Valley Advocate’s Readers’ Poll.
ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!
Host Families Needed for Spanish Teens. Expand your family’s horizons this summer by welcoming a student from Spain into your home through the STEP-to-U.S.A. program. These boys and girls, who range in age from 14 to 17, arrive Wednesday, June 26, for a 3 ½ week home stay. They are eager to be part of your family and to practice their English. You and your children can also practice your Spanish and make a lifelong friend from another country. Host siblings are welcome to join the students in a variety of weekly activities, including day trips to Boston and Six Flags. Apply early to select just the right student for your family. To learn more, contact Ann Newsmith at 802-257-4710, exchangevt@gmail.com and visit www.step-to-usa.com.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS: June 1st & 2nd
Saturday, June 1st – Hilltown Spring Festival: The Hilltown CDC’s Hilltown Spring Festival on June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds will be a combined music festival, food festival, children’s festival, craft festival, and alternative energy exposition! Music for children of all ages will be performed by Mister G, David Grover and Terry A La Berry. Other musical performers include percussionist Tony Vacca, acoustic string band Appalachian Still, singer-songwriter Heather Maloney, the Lonesome Brothers, Hot Day at the Zoo, the Walkin’ Blues Band, & Dan Hales and the Frost Heaves. There will be children’s activities all day long, music workshops for families, dancing around the Maypole, children selling hand-made crafts at the Kids-Made Crafts Bazaar, 8 foot tall puppets, Morris dancers, & much more. Cummington Fairgrounds. Cummington, MA (>$)
Sunday, June 2nd – WGBY Asparagus Festival: WGBY celebrates all All Things Local at Seven Sisters Market Bistro and Long Hollow Bison Farm at their Asparagus Festival. The kids can meet baby bison, enjoy asparagus-themed activities, and entertainment from Paintbox Theater. There will be live music and an old fashioned outdoor luncheon too. Local brews for the adults in the late afternoon. Route 9. Hadley, MA (FREE)
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
May 25th-31st, 2013
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 18, 2013 at 6:00 am (Recap Map, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Family Guide, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, Pioneer Valley, Spring, Weekend Guide, western massachusetts
Here’s a recap of news and information posted on Hilltown Families this past week, along with a map for finding out what’s happening this weekend and next week throughout Western MA!
MAP
Peruse our list of Suggested Events for May 18th-24th, 2013 for a comprehensive list of events happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, including: Mark Your Calendars, Bulletin Board. and over 50 Summer Camp Options.
Also check our weekly column, Learn Local. Play Local. for 33 Community Highlights: Lady’s Slipper to Bird Calls. Charcoal Industry to Historic Mill Sites., and our column, Berkshire Family Fun: May 2013, for a list of premier educational and cultural highlights in Berkshire County for families!
May 18th-24th, 2013
Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Early Childhood ♦ History ♦ Animal/Nature Studies ♦ Plant Studies ♦ Language Arts ♦ Community Service ♦ Parent Workshops
RECAP
Visit the Hilltown Families Facebook page and Twitter stream for more news and information!
FIVE FROM THE ARCHIVES
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 17, 2013 at 6:00 am (Highlights, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Community Based Education, education for sustainability, environmental education, experiential education, Family Activities in Western Massachusetts, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Massachusetts, Mother's Day, New England, pedagogy of place, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, place-based learning, staycation, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourisim, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
Healthy Smiles to Spring Fling. Lady’s Slipper to Bird Calls. Charcoal Industry to Historic Mill Sites… These are just a few of the learning highlights we’re featuring this week! Peruse our list and make plans to get out into your community and learn while you play!
Community Highlights
With beautiful weather in the forecast, it’ll be a great weekend to head out to any of the many annual community celebrations taking place this weekend. Community highlights include the 34th annual Longmeaddowe Days in Longmeadow, 18th annual Springfest in Northampton, Muddy Brook Elementary School PTA’s annual Mud Day in Great Barrington, and Chester On Track which this year celebrates the 174th anniversary of the coming of the railroad to Chester! There are also a couple of museum adventures awaiting families this Saturday with Museum Day at The Clark in Williamstown, and Art Museum Day at the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge.
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 16, 2013 at 6:00 am (Suggested Events)
Tags: Berkshires, Family, Family Activities, Family Events, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, outdoors, Pioneer Valley, Things to do, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourism, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
Mark your calendars! The Hilltown CDC’s Hilltown Spring Festival is just two weeks away on Saturday, June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds! (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
Hilltown Spring Festival: The Hilltown CDC’s Hilltown Spring Festival on June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds will be a combined music festival, food festival, children’s festival, craft festival, and alternative energy exposition! Music for children of all ages will be performed by Mister G, David Grover and Terry A La Berry. Other musical performers include percussionist Tony Vacca, acoustic string band Appalachian Still, singer-songwriter Heather Maloney, the Lonesome Brothers, Hot Day at the Zoo, the Walkin’ Blues Band, & Dan Hales and the Frost Heaves. There will be children’s activities all day long, music workshops for families, dancing around the Maypole, children selling hand-made crafts at the Kids-Made Crafts Bazaar, 8 foot tall puppets, Morris dancers, & much more.
Talking to Your Kids About Sex Series Hilltown Families and Cup and Top Café are presenting a series of free talks for parents with Brooke Norton, Certified Sex Educator. Continuing with this series, the third talk, “Puberty for Parents,” will focus on the physical changes, social impacts and emotional aspects of puberty. Brooke will also touch upon sexual orientation and coming out, and what parents can teach their kids about consent. “Puberty for Parents” will take place on Tuesday, May 21st after hours at Cup and Top Café from 6:30pm-8:30pm (1 North Main Street) in Florence, MA. For more information, please contact Brooke Norton at 413-684-8697 or email brookenorton712@gmail.com.
SUMMER CAMP
Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!
BULLETIN BOARD
May 17
ServiceNet and Prospect Meadow Farm invite the local community to a free family friendly community day and open house on the farm located at 103a Prospect St. in Hatfield, MA. The activities will take place on Friday, May 17 from 3:30pm-6:00pm. This event will feature guided farm tours, animal demonstrations, lawn games, 2 professional magic shows at 4pm and 5:30pm, live music, a free dessert bar, and food available from the local food truck the Bistro Bus. Prospect Meadow Farm is a nonprofit social enterprise that empowers disabled individuals to find meaningful activity through work in agriculture related fields. For more information visit www.facebook.com/prospectmeadowfarm or call Shawn Robinson at 413-887-9441.
May 17-19
Starlight’s Youth Theatre proudly presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr., the musical, May 17th at 7:00 pm, May 18th at 2:00 & 7:00 pm, May 19th at 2:00 pm at the Academy of Music, Northampton. Tickets are $12 students/seniors and $16 adults and may be purchased from the Academy of Music box office: in person, or by phone at 413-584-9032, extension 105, or online: www.academyofmusictheatre.tix.com. This year’s production will feature a double cast of over 100 children representing 30+ communities throughout the Pioneer Valley. There’s something for everyone in this Disney favorite: Princess Ariel and Prince Eric, the adorable Flounder, the comical duo of Sebastian the crab and Scuttle the sea gull, and other colorful sea creatures.
June 26
Host Families Needed for Spanish Teens. Expand your family’s horizons this summer by welcoming a student from Spain into your home through the STEP-to-U.S.A. program. These boys and girls, who range in age from 14 to 17, arrive Wednesday, June 26, for a 3 ½ week home stay. They are eager to be part of your family and to practice their English. You and your children can also practice your Spanish and make a lifelong friend from another country. Host siblings are welcome to join the students in a variety of weekly activities, including day trips to Boston and Six Flags. Apply early to select just the right student for your family. To learn more, contact Ann Newsmith at 802-257-4710, exchangevt@gmail.com and visit www.step-to-usa.com.
ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
Call for Kid Crafters for the Hilltown Spring Festival Kids-Made Craft Bazaar! The Hilltown CDC’s 7th Annual Hilltown Spring Festival is on Saturday, June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds. This will be the 4th year the Kids-Made Craft Bazaar happens at the festival. Children up to the age of 12 are invited to sell and barter their hand-made crafts and arts… and each year it’s a huge success! More information and application form here.
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
May 18th-24th, 2013
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 11, 2013 at 6:00 am (Recap Map, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Family Guide, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, Pioneer Valley, Spring, Weekend Guide, western massachusetts
Here’s a recap of news and information posted on Hilltown Families this past week, along with a map for finding out what’s happening this weekend and next week throughout Western MA!
MAP
Peruse our list of Suggested Events for May 11th-17th, 2013 for a comprehensive list of events happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, including: Mark Your Calendars, Bulletin Board. and the Hilltown Family Variety Show.
Also check our weekly column, Learn Local. Play Local. for 25 Community Highlights: Mother’s Day to Mamadrama. Steamboat Bill to Beaver Ponds., and our column, Berkshire Family Fun: May 2013, for a list of premier educational and cultural highlights in Berkshire County for families!
May 11th-17th, 2013
Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Mother’s Day Highlights ♦ Animal Studies ♦ Local History ♦ Nature Studies ♦ Film Studies ♦ Plant Sales ♦ Parent Workshop
RECAP
Visit the Hilltown Families Facebook page and Twitter stream for more news and information!
FIVE FROM THE ARCHIVES
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 10, 2013 at 6:00 am (Highlights, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Community Based Education, education for sustainability, environmental education, experiential education, Family Activities in Western Massachusetts, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Massachusetts, Mother's Day, New England, pedagogy of place, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, place-based learning, staycation, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourisim, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
Sunday is Mother’s Day! If you’re looking for ideas for getting out on Mother’s Day, we have a few suggestions…
Mother’s Day to Plant Something Campaign. Mamadrama to Steamboat Bill. Beaver Ponds to Fishways… These are just a few of the learning highlights we’re featuring this week! Peruse our list and make plans to get out into your community and learn while you play!
Brunch, Hike & Celebrate for Mother’s Day
Not up for breakfast in bed, then head out for breakfast or brunch. We asked our readers for family friendly restaurant recommendations for Mother’s Day and they had several to offer. Check out Mother’s Day Brunch to see their suggestions… and add one of your own.
After breakfast/brunch, celebrate Mother’s Day by taking her to one of the many gorgeous gardens dotted throughout Western Massachusetts including the Bridge of Flower in Shelburne Falls, one of the Commonwealth’s most unusual and enchanting “gardens” is found in Franklin County. Read our post The Art of Great Gardens in Western MA for a list of recommended public gardens in the region.
Looking for other ideas? Check out our Mother’s Day Highlights!
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 9, 2013 at 6:00 am (Suggested Events)
Tags: Berkshires, Event Listings, Family, Family Activities, Family Events, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, Mohawk Trail, New England, outdoors, Pioneer Valley, Spring Events, Things to do, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourism, Travel, vacation, Volunteer Activities, Western MA, western massachusetts
Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
Thank you to all of our volunteers, facilitators & sponsors for making last Saturday’s Family Community Service Event a great success! At this one of a kind event, families came together to volunteer at seven different stations in a single morning, generating 450 hours of community service. Throughout the morning folks participated in hands-on projects for different non-profit and community organizations in our region that work on behalf of animal welfare, conservation and food security… including the building of nearly 50 bluebird houses we donated to the Franklin Land Trust! Read more about the event here and how you can get involved in the next one: Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event
If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
Hilltown Spring Festival: The Hilltown CDC’s Hilltown Spring Festival on June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds will be a combined music festival, food festival, children’s festival, craft festival, and alternative energy exposition! Music for children of all ages will be performed by Mister G, David Grover and Terry A La Berry. Other musical performers include percussionist Tony Vacca, acoustic string band Appalachian Still, singer-songwriter Heather Maloney, the Lonesome Brothers, Hot Day at the Zoo, the Walkin’ Blues Band, & Dan Hales and the Frost Heaves. There will be children’s activities all day long, music workshops for families, dancing around the Maypole, children selling hand-made crafts at the Kids-Made Crafts Bazaar, 8 foot tall puppets, Morris dancers, & much more.
Talking to Your Kids About Sex Series Hilltown Families and Cup and Top Café are presenting a series of free talks for parents with Brooke Norton, Certified Sex Educator. Continuing with this series, the third talk, “Puberty for Parents,” will focus on the physical changes, social impacts and emotional aspects of puberty. Brooke will also touch upon sexual orientation and coming out, and what parents can teach their kids about consent. “Puberty for Parents” will take place on Tuesday, May 21st after hours at Cup and Top Café from 6:30pm-8:30pm (1 North Main Street) in Florence, MA. For more information, please contact Brooke Norton at 413-684-8697 or email brookenorton712@gmail.com.
SUMMER CAMP
Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!
BULLETIN BOARD
May 10
Just in time for Mother’s Day, Hilltown Families presents a free family Friday night event, Mother’s Day Mementos, at The Art Garden in Shelburne Falls on Friday, May 10th from 4-7pm. Come make handmade cards and gifts to give to the mothers in your life. Let them know they are appreciated while getting creative with your family! All materials included and everyone is invited to join in this community building event that honors the mother in your life. The Art Garden is located at 14 Depot Street, Suite 2 in Shelburne Falls, MA (in the same building as the Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum.).
May 17-19
Starlight’s Youth Theatre proudly presents Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr., the musical, May 17th at 7:00 pm, May 18th at 2:00 & 7:00 pm, May 19th at 2:00 pm at the Academy of Music, Northampton. Tickets are $12 students/seniors and $16 adults and may be purchased from the Academy of Music box office: in person, or by phone at 413-584-9032, extension 105, or online: www.academyofmusictheatre.tix.com. This year’s production will feature a double cast of over 100 children representing 30+ communities throughout the Pioneer Valley. There’s something for everyone in this Disney favorite: Princess Ariel and Prince Eric, the adorable Flounder, the comical duo of Sebastian the crab and Scuttle the sea gull, and other colorful sea creatures.
June 26
Host Families Needed for Spanish Teens. Expand your family’s horizons this summer by welcoming a student from Spain into your home through the STEP-to-U.S.A. program. These boys and girls, who range in age from 14 to 17, arrive Wednesday, June 26, for a 3 ½ week home stay. They are eager to be part of your family and to practice their English. You and your children can also practice your Spanish and make a lifelong friend from another country. Host siblings are welcome to join the students in a variety of weekly activities, including day trips to Boston and Six Flags. Apply early to select just the right student for your family. To learn more, contact Ann Newsmith at 802-257-4710, exchangevt@gmail.com and visit www.step-to-usa.com.
ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
Please help the Southern Hilltown Domestic Violence Task Force by taking a five to ten minute survey on-line at @ www.surveymonkey.com/s/hilltowndvsurvey, and by sending this link to others in the Hilltowns. Survey respondents may be eligible to enter a raffle for $200 cash. The Task Force designed the survey to get a better understanding of how Hilltown residents view and respond to domestic abuse, and to find out if community members know where to get help. The Task Force will use survey results as the foundation for a community education and outreach campaign later this year. For more information about the survey or the Task Force, email southernhillsdvtaskforce@gmail.com.
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
May 11th-17th, 2013
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter | Farmers’ Markets
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 8, 2013 at 6:00 pm (Hampshire County, HCDC, Hilltown Spring Festival)
Tags: Berkshires, Cummington Fairgrounds, Hilltown Spring Festival, Hilltowns, Music Festival, Pioneer Valley, regional musicians, western massachusetts
Local & Regional Musicians will Grace Two Stages at the Hilltown Spring Festival on June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds!
From Hot Day at the Zoo to Mister G, there’s a great line up of local & regional musical acts scheduled for the Hilltown CDC Hilltown Spring Festival this year on June 1st at the Cummington Fairgrounds! All great entertainment for the entire family, the music begins at 11am and continues until 5pm on two stages. Check out who’s gonna be there and make plans to come for the day with your family: Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 4, 2013 at 6:00 am (Recap Map, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Family Guide, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, Pioneer Valley, Spring, Weekend Guide, western massachusetts
Here’s a recap of news and information posted on Hilltown Families this past week, along with a map for finding out what’s happening this weekend and next week throughout Western MA!
MAP
Peruse our list of Suggested Events for May 4th-10th, 2013 for a comprehensive list of events happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, including: Best Bets, Bulletin Board. and the Hilltown Family Variety Show.
Also check our weekly column, Learn Local. Play Local. for 23 Community Highlights: Building Birdhouses to Making Giving Bags. Jurassic Roadshow to Long Island Express., and our column, Berkshire Family Fun: May 2013, for a list of premier educational and cultural highlights in Berkshire County for families!
May 4th-10th, 2013
Saturday • Sunday
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Service-Based Learning ♦ Playgroups & Storyhours ♦ Dinosaurs/Fossils ♦ Nature & History ♦ Fashion ♦ Science ♦ Animal/Nature Studies ♦ Parent Workshop
RECAP
Visit the Hilltown Families Facebook page and Twitter stream for more news and information!
FIVE FROM THE ARCHIVES
- Affirming What’s Essential ❥ Love in Western MA
- What to do with Fiddleheads?
- Hilltown Families on Pinterest!
- Let’s Play: Monsters and Creative Free Play
- HFVS Music from South Africa with Guest DJ, Debbie Lan (Radio Show/Podcast)
HILLTOWN FAMILIES EVENT: This Saturday, May 4th form 10am-1pm. JOIN US!
GIVEAWAY
RECAP MAP SPONSORS
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 3, 2013 at 6:00 am (Highlights, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Community Based Education, Community Service, Community Service Based Learning, education for sustainability, environmental education, experiential education, Family Activities in Western Massachusetts, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Massachusetts, National Volunteer Week, New England, Park Clean Ups, pedagogy of place, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, place-based learning, staycation, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourisim, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
Northampton’s annual Pride Parade and Celebration takes place on Saturday starting at 12noon! Celebrate LGBTQ culture and rights – there is a specially designated youth space at the event just for families!
Building Birdhouses to Making Giving Bags. Jurassic Roadshow to Long Island Express. Wild Flower Walk to Historical Fashion Show…
These are just a few of the learning highlights we’re featuring this week!
Get out into your community and learn while you play!
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
May 2, 2013 at 6:01 am (Suggested Events)
Tags: Berkshires, Event Listings, Family, Family Activities, Family Events, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, May Day, Mohawk Trail, New England, outdoors, Pioneer Valley, Spring Events, Things to do, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourism, Travel, vacation, Volunteer Activities, Western MA, western massachusetts
Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
Join us this Saturday, May 4th at the Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event! Our goal is to contribute up to 600 hours of volunteer service in a single event! We’ll be making bird houses for the Franklin Land Trust, cat toys for the Dakin Humane Society, fleece chews for Kane’s Krusade, making seed bombs with Help Yourself, planting seedlings with Grow Food Northampton, making Giving Bags with Knack, writing letters with the Key Club, collection donations of cat/dog food & blankets for wildlife rehabilitation… It’s gonna awesome! Happens both indoors and outdoors from 10am-1pm at Leeds Elementary School in Northampton where you’ll find something for ALL AGES. Find out more about this free event here and sign up to join us: Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event: May 4th!
If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.
WEEKEND BEST BET:
Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event
Volunteer with your family to help local non-profits at seven different hands-on volunteer stations— a one of a kind event for families to volunteer together while educating children about animal welfare, conservation efforts and the value of community service.
On Saturday, May 4th from 10am-1pm: FAMILY COMMUNITY SERVICE EVENT: Join Hilltown Families for a Saturday morning of volunteering together with your family during our spring Family Community Service Event to be held at Leeds Elementary School. We will be offering seven volunteer stations for families to participate in hands-on service projects for ALL AGES that support animal welfare organizations, conservation efforts and food security. Come any time after 10am, get your Passport, and travel about to one or all stations! Find out more and preregister here: Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event: May 4th! Northampton, MA (FREE)
SUMMER CAMP
Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!
BULLETIN BOARD
May 4
Yes Computers is co-sponsoring their 2nd annual Free Electronic Waste Recycling Event on Saturday, May 4th, 9am-12noon, adjacent to Yes Computers in the Public Parking Lot in Northampton. In partnership with River Radio, Alternative Waste Recycling & Gold Circuit E-cycling, they will take for FREE, Computers, Monitors (CRT’s), all small electronics & electrical appliances even old TV’s (limit one). Bring old cell phones to donate to Safe Passage & working old iPods to donate to Music & Alzheimer’s Project (sponsored by the Northampton Community Music Center). Please limit largest recyclables to 3 items, smaller stuff no limit; Household items only. Participants get a free Yes Computers $10 gift voucher good on anything in the store for participating.
May 5
Bread Euphoria is having a birthday & the community is invited to celebrate 15 years of baked goodness at Wheatstock II, featuring live music & delicious food. The party takes place on Sunday, May 5th from 12noon-6pm at the Williamsburg Grange, on Route 9. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids 5-12yo (under 5yo are free), & includes an impressive entertainment lineup of local favorites the Sweetback Sisters, Primate Fiasco and Swing Caravan — & birthday cake (including vegan & gluten-free choices). Meat & vegetarian shish kabobs, salads, sides & beverages will be available for purchase, as well. Come for the food and stay for the fun-or come for the fun & stay for the food-either way, come! For more info call Bread Euphoria: 413-268-7757
May 11
Mother’s Day Giveaway! Enter to win more than $700 worth of wellness services for new and expecting mothers in Western MA. This collaboration of five local (women-owned) businesses will grant one lucky mother with gift certificates for a month of free diaper service, 2 appointments for prenatal or postnatal massage, 2 acupuncture treatments, $150 savings on birth doula service & $150 savings on birth photography. Participating business include Simple Diaper & Linen, Window of Heaven Acupuncture & Yoga, Jo Bunny Massage and Yoga, Bellyfull Birth, and Nature & Nurture Photography and Doula Services. Deadline to enter is May 11, 2013. Drawing will take place on Mother’s Day. Check out www.facebook.com/MothersDayGiveaway to enter & for details.
ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
Enter for a chance to win tickets for a Parents’ Night Out!
The Amherst Survival Center has volunteer opportunities for teens ages 15yo+ on weekdays (not Wed). Shifts are typically 2 hours/week between 9am-3pm. They are looking for a two hour/week commitment for a minimum of 8 weeks with organizing and sorting through fresh bread & produce, helping in their Free Store, serving lunch and doing dishes. Their Emergency Food Pantry often needs help too with keeping the shelves stocked and helping folks fill their carts with their monthly food “box.” Strong folks can help pick up furniture from around town in the mornings. And people who like to clean can help clean the place after 2:30pm. Lots and lots of options for summer volunteering. For more info visit www.amherstsurvival.org or email tracey@amherstsurvival.org
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
May 4th-10th, 2013
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
April 29, 2013 at 6:01 am (Hampshire County, Hilltown Families, Hilltown Spring Festival, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshires, Children's Festival, Craft Festival, Food Festival, hampshire county, Hilltown Spring Festival, Hilltowns, Music Festival, Pioneer Valley, Spring Festivals, Sustainability Festival, western massachusetts
Hilltown Spring Festival on June 1st will be a medley of festivals!
Innovative percussionist, Tony Vacca will be returning to Hilltown Spring Festival this year, with a performance and rhythm workshop for families. His performances are a nearly non-stop athletic spectacle of percussion music and spoken word, incorporating a world of percussion traditions that includes African, Caribbean, Asian and Middle-Eastern influences. To be enjoyed by the entire family! (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
The Hilltown Spring Festival on June 1st, 2013 at the Cummington Fairgrounds will be a combined music festival, food festival, children’s festival, craft festival, and alternative energy exposition!
MUSIC
Musical performers include percussionist Tony Vacca, acoustic string band Appalachian Still, singer-songwriter Heather Maloney, the Lonesome Brothers, Hot Day at the Zoo, the Walkin’ Blues Band, and Dan Hales and the Frost Heaves. The complete music schedule is at www.hilltowncdc.org.
CHILDREN
Music for children of all ages will be performed by Mister G, David Grover and Terry A La Berry. There will be children’s activities all day long, dancing around the Maypole at noon, children selling their own hand-made crafts at the Kids-Made Crafts Bazaar, eight foot tall puppets, Morris dancers, and much more.
New this year is an open mike stage for local musicians of all ages!
EDUCATION
Music workshops for families will be led by percussionists Aimee Gelinas and Tony Vacca, Jim Armenti of the Lonesome Brothers,, and Mariam Massaro.
SUSTAINABILITY
The Festival also features vendors of sustainable living products and services, farmers selling starter plants, local craft vendors, horse-training demonstrations, displays by local organizations and much more.
The gates will open at 10am; the music begins at 11am. Admission is $8; children 12 and under are free. Free parking is available on the fairgrounds.
The Hilltown CDC’s 7th Annual Hilltown Spring Festival will be on Saturday, June 1st, 2013 at the Cummington Fairgrounds! 2,000 people are expected at the Hilltown Spring Festival this year and entertainment will include musical performances and workshops, exhibits by artists and craftspeople, displays by local businesses, food from local vendors, a family contra-dance, kids-made craft bazaar, children’s activities and much more. More information is available at www.hilltowncdc.org. – Proceeds go to support Hilltown CDC programs that support low and moderate income hilltown residents. These programs include small business support, housing rehabilitation, child care subsidies, and social services for families and the elderly.
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
April 27, 2013 at 6:00 am (Recap Map, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Family Guide, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, New England, Pioneer Valley, Spring, Weekend Guide, western massachusetts
Here’s a recap of news and information posted on Hilltown Families this past week, along with a map for finding out what’s happening this weekend and next week throughout Western MA!
MAP
Peruse our list of Suggested Events for April 27th-May 3rd, 2013 for a comprehensive list of events happening throughout the four counties of Western MA, including: Mark Your Calendars, Bulletin Board. and the Hilltown Family Variety Show.
Also check our weekly column, Learn Local. Play Local. for 40 Community Highlights: History of Tea to Biology of Frogs. Cultural Festivals to Fundraisers., and our bi-weekly column, Berkshire Family Fun for late April through early May, 2013, for a list of premier educational and cultural highlights in Berkshire County for families!
April 27th – May 3rd, 2013
Saturday • Sunday • Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Community Service ♦ Fundraisers ♦ Sustainability ♦ Animal/Nature Studies ♦ Economics ♦ Cultural Studies ♦ History
RECAP
Visit the Hilltown Families Facebook page and Twitter stream for more news and information!
FIVE FROM THE ARCHIVES
- Q&A: Does Your Family Have a Pediatric Dentist You Love Here in Western MA?
- HFVS Arbor Day Episode (Radio Show/Podcast)
- One Clover & A Bee: Poems For Families To Learn And Love
- Make Your Own Natural Bug Repellent Using Essential Oils
- Our Daughters: Using Facebook to Air Conflict
HILLTOWN FAMILIES EVENT
GIVEAWAY
RECAP MAP SPONSORS
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
April 26, 2013 at 6:00 am (Highlights, Suggested Activity)
Tags: Berkshire County, Berkshires, Community Based Education, Community Service, Community Service Based Learning, education for sustainability, environmental education, experiential education, Family Activities in Western Massachusetts, franklin county, Hampden County, hampshire county, Massachusetts, National Volunteer Week, New England, Park Clean Ups, pedagogy of place, Pioneer Valley, place-based education, place-based learning, staycation, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourisim, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
The new exhibition, Tea Talk: Ritual and Refinement in Early American Parlors, opens at Historic Deerfield this weekend. Families can learn about the history of the tea trade, historical use of tea in homes, and its role in socializing in early America. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
Spaghetti Dinner to Fun Run. Composting to Recycling. Victorian Tea to Potluck Dinner. Frog Life Cycle to Arabic Cultural Festival…
These are just a few of the learning highlights we’re featuring this week!
On the heels of Earth Day as we head towards the end of National Volunteer Week, there are still a plethora of events to participate in that celebrate and support sustainability, along with opportunities to volunteer with your family this weekend. Peruse our list below and make plans to get out into your community and learn while you play!
And be sure to check our list of supporting book titles to supplement the learning on the different topics highlighted each week.
Purchase them for your family library, or check them out from the public library!
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
April 25, 2013 at 6:00 am (Suggested Events)
Tags: Berkshires, Event Listings, Family, Family Activities, Family Events, Farmers' Market, Hilltowns, Massachusetts, May Day, Mohawk Trail, New England, outdoors, Pioneer Valley, School Vacation, Spring Events, Things to do, Things to do in Western Massachusetts, Tourism, Travel, vacation, Western MA, western massachusetts
Discover fun and educational events happening this week in Western Mass, along with announcements, upcoming events, links, resources and the HFVS podcast.
SUGGEST AN EVENT
Outdoor Farmers’ Markets are slowly starting back up! The opening of Tuesday Market in Northampton happens this coming Tuesday, April 30th where you can pick up the ingredients you need to make a dish to bring to the Burgy Farmers’ Market Pot-Luck Dinner Benefit at the Williamsburg Grange two days later on Thursday, May 2nd! How convenient is that?!
If you have a community event, educational program or service opportunity for youth/families happening in Western Massachusetts that you’d like to let us know about, post your event on our “Suggest An Event” page. The events below are “suggested.” Please take the time to confirm that these events are happening, along with time, place, age appropriateness and costs before attending.
Serving Western Massachusetts since 2005, Hilltown Families supports development and enhancement of our local economy and community. Local businesses, individuals, schools and non-profits are encouraged to partner with Hilltown Families through sponsorship and advertising. Let us help get the word out about your after school/homeschool class, event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business/school, service, open house, volunteer opportunity or general announcement. Deliver your message to thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families. Click HERE to find out more.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event
Volunteer with your family to help local non-profits — a one of a kind event for families to volunteer together while educating children about animal welfare, conservation efforts and the value of community service.
On Saturday, May 4th from 10am-1pm: FAMILY COMMUNITY SERVICE EVENT: Join Hilltown Families for a Saturday morning of volunteering together with your family during our spring Family Community Service Event to be held at Leeds Elementary School. We will be offering seven volunteer stations for families to participate in hands-on service projects for ALL AGES that support animal welfare organizations, conservation efforts and food security. Find out more and preregister here: Hilltown Families’ Family Community Service Event: May 4th! Northampton, MA (FREE)
SUMMER CAMP
Looking for a summer camp or program in Western MA? Check out our featured post, 2013 Summer Camps and Programs in Western MA for a list that will wow and dazzle you! Summer opportunities featured range from music, art, farming, theater, dance, science, nature, sports, speaking, yoga, rock ‘n roll… to traditional summer day or overnight camps/programs! There’s something for all ages, toddlers to teens! Check it out and start making your summer plans!
BULLETIN BOARD
Apr 27
The Ashfield Community Preschool invites you to join them for their annual open house on Saturday, April 27th 10am-Noon. This event is for families with young children age 2.9 – 5yo who are looking for quality care and small class sizes in the rural Hilltown of Ashfield, MA. Children who attend the preschool participate in a hands-on gardening program, growing sunflowers, pumpkins and blueberries. The preschool grazes the neighbors’ sheep and llamas in their pastoral setting and offers a six week summer program with walking trips to visit local Ashfield artists. Join their staff on April 27th and tour their facility and grounds. 103 Baptist Corner Road. Ashfield, MA. Call for more information 413-628-3248.
Apr 27
On Saturday, April 27, 2013 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 noon, the Montessori School of Northampton (MSN) at 51 Bates Street, Northampton, will hold a family open house. All parents of toddler, preschool and elementary students interested in September 2013 admission are encouraged to attend. The school currently has full- and part-time openings available for fall 2013, including a new full day 3-day/week program for toddlers and a new half-day Children’s House (preschool) classroom. MSN enrolls students from ages 2 through 12 and is currently in its 36th year of fostering independent learners in a welcoming community. For information, please call (413) 586-4538 or visit www.northamptonmontessori.org.
Apr 28
Holy Bonfire! Community Lag B’Omer Festival happening Sunday, April 28th from 11am-1pm- rain or shine! Beit Ahavah & Congregation B’nai Israel Community Schools present: Bonfire, live music by Yiddishkeit Klezmir, musical storytelling by Anna Sobel & Aharaon Skogland, recycled art crafts, archery, games, haircutting booth, chickens, facepainting, “love-shack booth” & more! Kosher, pastured beef hot-dogs & veggie dogs. $5 suggested donation. All ages welcome! Held at Cong. B’nai Israel, 253 Prospect St, Northampton. Lag B’Omer is the joyous holiday held on the 33rd day of the counting of the Omer between Passover & Shavuot. For more info & RSVP: 413-584-3593, rabbijacob@cbinorthampton.org. “Join” us on Facebook & invite your friends!
May 5
Looking for an excuse to wear your superhero cape in public all while supporting students in our community with Intellectual and Development Disabilities (We don’t believe that you ever need an excuse to do this!)? Come on out to the Best Buddies Superhero Friendship Walk on Sunday morning , May 5th, 2013 in the beautiful setting of Look Park in Florence, MA. Best Buddies is an amazing organization that promotes inclusion and friendships between students with and without Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The event will feature musical performances by the students of Berkshire Hills Music Academy, Circus performances by students of Show Circus and so much more! Sign up at www.bestbudiesma.org/walk.
May 5
Bread Euphoria is having a birthday & the community is invited to celebrate 15 years of baked goodness at Wheatstock II, featuring live music & delicious food. The party takes place on Sunday, May 5th from 12noon-6pm at the Williamsburg Grange, on Route 9. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids 5-12yo (under 5yo are free), & includes an impressive entertainment lineup of local favorites the Sweetback Sisters, Primate Fiasco and Swing Caravan — & birthday cake (including vegan & gluten-free choices). Meat & vegetarian shish kabobs, salads, sides & beverages will be available for purchase, as well. Come for the food and stay for the fun-or come for the fun & stay for the food-either way, come! For more info call Bread Euphoria: 413-268-7757
May 11
Mother’s Day Giveaway! Enter to win more than $700 worth of wellness services for new and expecting mothers in Western MA. This collaboration of five local (women-owned) businesses will grant one lucky mother with gift certificates for a month of free diaper service, 2 appointments for prenatal or postnatal massage, 2 acupuncture treatments, $150 savings on birth doula service & $150 savings on birth photography. Participating business include Simple Diaper & Linen, Window of Heaven Acupuncture & Yoga, Jo Bunny Massage and Yoga, Bellyfull Birth, and Nature & Nurture Photography and Doula Services. Deadline to enter is May 11, 2013. Drawing will take place on Mother’s Day. Check out www.facebook.com/MothersDayGiveaway to enter & for details.
Spring
Join Crimson & Clover Farm in celebrating the spring! The Farm Education Collaborative will be leading a wide array of farm-based education programs this growing season at Crimson & Clover Farm in Florence, MA. Whether you’re a parent wanting to share a morning with your young child on the farm or an aspiring farmer looking to work in the fields, there’s something for you at Crimson & Clover Farm this spring. Plant, harvest, tend to the animals, cook farm-fresh produce, explore and work together, and so much more! Financial aid is available to low-income families through Grow Food Northampton. For complete details and registration please visit their website – www.thefarmeducationcollaborative.org.
ADVERTISE HERE: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the community development work of Hilltown Families! See your April vacation event, open house, auditions, afterschool class, homeschool program, community event, workshop, school, wellness program or business featured here in the bulletin board section of our list of Weekly Suggested Events and eNewsletter, reaching thousands of families living throughout the four counties of Western MA! Find out more about our enhanced publicity packages and options and how we can help with your online marketing by emailing us at hilltownfamilies@gmail.com.
LIST OF WEEKLY SUGGESTED EVENTS
April 27th-May 3rd, 2013
Suggest an Event | Forecast | Museum Passes | Weekly eNewsletter
Read the rest of this entry »
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
April 22, 2013 at 9:30 am (Hampshire County, Hilltown Spring Festival)
Tags: Berkshires, hampshire county, Hilltown Spring Festival, Hilltowns, Kids Crafts, Pioneer Valley, Spring Festivals, western massachusetts
Kids-Made Crafts Bazaar
Call for Kid Crafters for the Hilltown Spring Festival
Saturday, June 1st, 2013
The Kids-Made Craft Bazaar allows children to participate directly in the Festival, rewards them for their creativity, and gives them some real-world experience showing and selling their work.
The Hilltown CDC’s 7th Annual Hilltown Spring Festival is on Saturday, June 1st, 2013 at the Cummington Fairgrounds. This will be the 4th year the Kids-Made Craft Bazaar happens at the festival, spearheaded by Hilltown Families founder, Sienna Wildfield in 2010. Children up to the age of 12 are invited to sell and barter their hand-made crafts and arts… and each year it’s a huge success! The Kids-Made Craft Bazaar allows children to participate directly in the Festival, rewards them for their creativity, and gives them some real-world experience showing and selling their work.
Kids ages 12 and younger are invited to participate! The Kids-Made Crafts Bazaar will be located in a central covered area on the fairground, and all crafts and art must be hand-made predominantly by children. Children will participate directly in the Festival as vendors, allowing for hands-on experience in showing and selling their crafts. Participants must be pre-registered and be able to bring their own tables (card table size) and chairs. The fee for child artists and crafters is $5. Registration forms must be filled out and returned with registration fee to the Hilltown CDC:
Only a certain number of children can be accommodated, so register early. One adult free pass will be provided for each exhibitor; there is no admission charge for children 12 and under. If there are questions, call Seth Isman at 413-296-4536 x112 or email sethi@hilltowncdc.org.
The Hilltown CDC’s 7th Annual Hilltown Spring Festival will be on Saturday, June 1st, 2013 at the Cummington Fairgrounds! 2,000 people are expected at the Hilltown Spring Festival this year and entertainment will include musical performances and workshops, exhibits by artists and craftspeople, displays by local businesses, food from local vendors, a family contra-dance, kids-made craft bazaar, children’s activities and much more. More information is available at www.hilltowncdc.org.
Like this:
Like Loading...
Leave a Comment
« Older entries
