Hilltown Families 
Suggested Events 11/13/10-11/19/10
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
The Fall Chrysanthemum Show at the Lyman Conservatory of the Smith College Botanic Garden happens all weekend from 10am-4pm. Take the kids and enjoy the greenhouses with the family. (Photo credit: Sienna Wildfield)
If you have a family friendly event or educational program 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.
BEST BETS
On Saturday, November 13th at 1:30pm – FAMILY CONCERT: No Nap Happy Hour continues with The Flannery Brothers and R.O.C.K, performing a family concert at Flywheel (43 Main St.). www.flywheelarts.org Easthampton, MA (>$)
On Sunday, November 14th from 1-4pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Family Festival at the Norman Rockwell Museum with Caldecott-winning illustrator, Jerry Pinkney. Family events all day, including art, readings and tours. 298-4100 www.nrm.org Stockbridge, MA (KIDS FREE, ADULTS $)
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
On Friday, November 19th from 6-9pm – MOMS NIGHT OUT: Yoga and Women’s Gifting Circle at the Shelburne Falls Yoga Studio. A lovely mom’s night out to relax and consider gifts from the Women’s Peace Collection. shelburnefallsyoga.blogspot.com (FREE, SALE)
On Saturday, November 20st at 10am – FAMILY FILM: Kids Flix Mix will be at the International Family Film series at Images Cinema (50 Spring St.). Kids Flix Mix is a collection of international animated shorts assembled by the New York International Children’s Film Festival, targeted at ages 3-8, but fun for all ages. www.imagescinema.org Williamstown, MA (>$)
On Sunday, November 21st from 3-5pm – FAMILY DANCE: Community Family Dance at First Churches (enter across from the Iron Horse). There will be live music and dances will be taught to families. All ages 3yo & up. 230-7037 Northampton, MA (>$)
BULLETIN BOARD
CONCERT IN THE HILLTOWNS: On Saturday, November 13th at 8pm, Peter Tork (of the Monkees) and his band Shoe Suede Blues will be in concert to benefit the Institute for the Musical Arts’ (IMA) programs for women and girls in IMA’s Big Barn at 165 Cape St. (Hwy 112) in Goshen. Suggested donation: $15-$50 per person. Click here to get tickets on-line. Great cause, great music, great room to hear it in. For more information contact IMA at : (413) 268-3074
SPONSORSHIP & ADVERTISING: Reach thousands of families in Western MA while supporting the work of Hilltown Families. Let us help get the word out about your event, camp, workshop, fundraiser, business or announcement. Email hilltownfamilies@gmail.com for more information. — Help us help you!
Bill Harley writes: Free download of my song, “Enough is a Feast” to remind us that there are those with less. Wrote this song after I was hanging out with Nancy Schimmel, daughter of Malvina Reynolds, who said that line to her more than once.
NEIGHBORHOOD TOY STORE DAY: This Saturday is “Neighborhood Toy Store Day,” a national day that honors and encourages support of locally owned, independent toy stores. On Saturday, Hilltown Families sponsor, The Toy Stop of Northampton will be giving 10% off of any purchase to readers of Hilltown Families! Just mention “Hilltown Families” and get your discount. Visit The Toy Stop online at thetoystoplaughplaylearn.com
TAKE ACTION: Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood has recently launched a campaign to encourage parents and teachers to ask Scholastic to stop the promotion of SunnyD in schools. Read more about their campaign here.
HILLTOWN CLOTHING EXCHANGE: Ashfield Needles & Threads is working in collaboration with Share the Warmth to host a Free Clothing Exchange – a community hand-me-around to facilitate Recycling, Reusing, Sharing and Happiness! It starts with collecting: please drop off clean clothes and shoes in excellent condition – all seasons and sizes – in the foyer of St. John’s Church (corner of Main & South Streets in Ashfield) anytime between the afternoon of Sunday, 11/14 & Friday, 11/19. Then, come see what we have for you on Saturday, November 20th from 9am–2pm in the Ashfield Community Hall (Grange) on Main Street. Everyone is encouraged to bring family and friends and their own reusable shopping bags. Leftover items will be distributed through Share the Warmth. 628-4527
BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES: Looking for help with breastfeeding? Did you know that Cooley Dick offers breastfeeding services, supplies and equipment? Group support is offered every Monday from 12-1pm and individual breastfeeding consultations are available via referral. Their Breastfeeding Clinic has a variety of support items available too. Give them call at 582-2096. — Another great local resource is The Motherwear Breastfeeding Blog. Based out of Western MA, lactation consultant Tanya Lieberman hosts the blog and does an excellent job sharing information and resources! – And be sure to check out List of Weekly Suggested Events for breastfeeding workshops & support groups.
HILLTOWN FAMILY VARIETY SHOW
Tune in every Saturday from 9-10am. Encore episodes are aired every Sunday from 7-8am.
This week on the HFVS the Dream Jam Band is our Guest DJ, spinning tunes by The Tornados, Owl Jolson, Pete Seeger, Jerry Garcia & David Grisman, The Turtles, Falther Goose and many others!
Families have several ways to tune in to the Hilltown Family Variety Show:
Streaming Audio: Surf on over to ValleyFreeRadio.org on Saturday & Sunday mornings and listen to us live via streaming audio. On Your FM Dial: Tune in to WXOJ 103.3FM if you live near Northampton, MA.
PODCAST: Listen to the most recent episodes of the Hilltown Family Variety Show anytime you wish! Click here to see our current select of episodes, and be sure to subscribe to our podcast too!
WEEKLY LIST OF SUGGESTED EVENTS
Saturday • Sunday • Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday • Thursday • Friday
Suggest an Event | Local Forecast | Free Museum Passes | Playgroups & Family Centers | Movies in the Valley | Movies in the Berkshires | Listen Here
Events Happening in the Hilltowns
♦ On-going Events
Saturday – 11/13
9am – OPEN HOUSE: The Berkshire County Day School will be hosting an open house and preschool play dated (Route 183). 637-0755 www.berkshirecountryday.org Stockbridge, MA (FREE)
10:30am – NATURE STUDIES: Animal ABC’s: Busy Bold Beavers. Kids 6yo and younger can learn about this master builder and what the beavers tools are. Build a beaver home with mud and sticks. At the M.M. Spear Memorial Library. (978) 544-5157 www.mnspear.org Shutesbury, MA (FREE)
10am-12Noon – ANIMAL STUDIES: Bird Banding Demonstration at Pleasant Valley (472 W. Mt. Rd.). Observe birds closeup and see a demonstration of mist next and the banding of captured birds. Learn how information is gathered in this fieldwork. www.massaudubon.org Lenox, MA (>$)
10am-12Noon – BABY SHOWER: A community baby shower will be at the Berkshire Mall Center Court for expecting families to learn about labor, delivery, infant care, breastfeeding, nutrition, lead poisoning, child care, parenting strategies and more from local agencies. Lanesborough, MA (FREE)
10am-3pm – HOLIDAY BAZAAR: JFK PTO will be hosting its 2nd Annual Holiday Bazaar at JFK Middle School. Florence, MA (SALE)
10am-4pm – CHRYSANTHEMUM SHOW: The Botanic Garden Lyman Conservatory of Smith College (15 College Lane) will host a Fall Chrysanthemum Show. A sweet event to take the family to. 585-2740 Northampton, MA (FREE, DONATION)
10am-5pm – VOCATIONAL STUDIES: Artists in the Arts and Industry Building (Pine St.) will open up their studios this weekend and invite all to come by. A great opportunity for vocational studies with the kids. The will be food and drinks from Hilltown Families Sponsors, Cup & Top and Bread Euphoria too. Florence, MA (FREE)
10:30an-12noon – LOCAL HISTORY: Older students will enjoy a walking tour that will illustrate the history of railroads in Springfield from 1839 to 1930 on a tour lead by Jim Boone, past president of the Springfield Preservation Trust. He will point out the sites of four old Springfield railroad stations and talk about the building of the Hotel Massasoit and the railroad arch over Main Street. Meet at Welcome Center at the Springfield Museums. 747-1830 aqca@kimballtowers.com Springfield, MA(>$)
11am-2pm – NATURE STUDIES: Mass Audubon Basin Pond Ecology Hike with naturalist Aimee Gelinas of Tamarack Hollow Environmental and Cultural Programs. A moderate three-mile hike to Basin Pond with northern hardwood forests, glacial erratics, remnants of impoundment dams and old settlements. Learn how to identify native trees and plants in their late fall colors along the way. Register by calling 584-3009 www.massaudubon.org Berkshires, MA ($)
12Noon – 4:30pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Holiday gift making at Historic Deerfield. With thread and a needle museum educators will help visitors embroider a small design or initials on a cloth napkin. Make a unique napkin ring to go along with the napkin, and tie it up with a ribbon. Then decorate a card, and put it a gift bag. 775-7127 www.historic-deerfield.org Deerfield, MA (MUSEUM ADMISSION)
1-2:30pm – READING ADVENTURES: Family Adventures in Reading (FAIR) will be offered at the Indian Orchard Branch Library (44 Oak St.) with professional storyteller John Porcino lerading families and children 6 and older in discussions about children’s stories on topics such as fairness, courage, and dreams. Snacks will be provided. Register at 263-6846 www.springfieldlibrary.org Springfield, MA (FREE)
♦ 1:30-3:20pm – ICE SKATING: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 Greenfield, MA ($)
♦ 2-3:50pm – ICE SKATING: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 Holyoke, MA ($)
1:30pm – FAMILY CONCERT: No Nap Happy Hour continues with The Flannery Brothers and R.O.C.K, performing a family concert at Flywheel (43 Main St.). www.flywheelarts.org Easthampton, MA (>$)
2pm & 3pm – THEATER: Picture Book Theatre Presents Tico and The Golden Wings and Geraldine, The Music Mouse in the auditorium at the Eric Carle Museum. 658-1100 www.carlemuseum.org Amherst, MA ($)
2-4pm – INFANT CPR: Infant CPR & basic first aid at Cradle. 341-5282 http://www.cradlefamily.com Northampton, MA ($$)
2-5pm – DANCE CLASS: Celtic Heels School of Irish Dance will host free Irish dance classes in their studio (267 Main St.). 4-6yo @ 2pm. 6-8yo @ 3pm. 8yo+ @ 4pm. Adults @ 5pm. www.celticheelsdance.com Greenfield, MA (FREE)
5-8pm – ART WALK: Easthampton Art Walk. Follow the yellow banners. www.ArtWalkEasthampton.org Easthampton, MA (FREE)
Sunday – 11/14
10am-12Noon – LATKE BREAKFAST: Eric Carle Museum will host at latke breakfast. RSVP 658-1126 www.carlemuseum.org Amherst, MA ($)
10am-4pm – CHRYSANTHEMUM SHOW: The Botanic Garden Lyman Conservatory of Smith College (15 College Lane) will host a Fall Chrysanthemum Show. A sweet event to take the family to. 585-2740 Northampton, MA (FREE, DONATION)
10am-5pm – VOCATIONAL STUDIES: Artists in the Arts and Industry Building (Pine St.) will open up their studios this weekend and invite all to come by. A great opportunity for vocational studies with the kids. The will be food and drinks from Hilltown Families Sponsors, Cup & Top and Bread Euphoria too. Florence, MA (FREE)
12Noon – 4:30pm – ARTS & CRAFTS: Holiday gift making at Historic Deerfield. With thread and a needle museum educators will help visitors embroider a small design or initials on a cloth napkin. Make a unique napkin ring to go along with the napkin, and tie it up with a ribbon. Then decorate a card, and put it a gift bag. 775-7127 www.historic-deerfield.org Deerfield, MA (MUSEUM ADMISSION)
1-4pm – MUSEUM ADVENTURES: Family Festival at the Norman Rockwell Museum with Caldecott-winning illustrator, Jerry Pinkney. Family events all day, including art, readings and tours. 298-4100 www.nrm.org Stockbridge, MA (KIDS FREE, ADULTS $)
1-5pm – BOOKAPALOOZA: The Vegan Bus will have a fundraiser for Evolvegan with “earth-friendly ways to ease into the holidays with gifts and recipes and community fun.” Join them in the Old Dynamite Records Space (lower level of Thornes Marketplace). Live music, kid activities, demo, auction, vendors and more. www.theveganbus.com Northampton, MA (FREE ENTRANCE, SALE)
2pm – CHESS: Kids’ Chess Club at the Goodwin Library. 584-7451 Hadley, MA (FREE)
♦ 2-3:50pm – ICE SKATING: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.) Skate rentals available. 781-2599 Springfield, MA ($)
Parents Together Support Group at the Amherst Family Center. Drop-in playgroups at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center.
Monday – 11/15
10-11am in Stockbridge: Join the CHP Family Network for a field trip to the Berkshire Botanical Gardens Stroll Through the Autumn Garden field trip. Call to register: 644-0104 (FREE)
Ongoing
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Northampton: Playgroup at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 9:30-11am in South Hadley: Drop-in playgroups at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 http://www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE) (mid Sept-May)
♦ 10am in Williamstown: Play and Learn Group at the Williamstown Youth Center. http://www.williamstownyouthcenter.org (FREE)
♦ 10am-4pm in Northampton: The Botanic Garden Lyman Conservatory of Smith College (15 College Lane) will host a Fall Chrysanthemum Show. A sweet event to take the family to. 585-2740 Northampton, MA (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 10:30am in Northampton: Storytime with Ellie at the Forbes Library. 587-1011 http://www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 11:00am in Northampton: Tummy Time at the Forbes Library. 587-1011 http://www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 11am-12:50pm in Springfield: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.) Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)
♦ 12Noon – 1pm in Northampton: Mother-Mother Breastfeeding group hosted by a certified lactation consultant every Monday at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. 582-2096 (FREE)
♦ 2-3:50pm in Greenfield: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
♦ 3-4:50pm in Holyoke: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
♦ 4:30pm in Northampton: Family Karate for kids ages 6-12 with an adult at the Hampshire Regional YMCA. 584-7086 (MEMBERS)
♦ 5:30pm in North Adams: Haskins Gym Group at the Haskins Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
♦ 6:30pm in Montague: Evening Sing-Along at the Montague Center Library. Children of all ages and their families are invited to join Children’s Librarian Linda Hickman for a fun informal live music. Linda plays a variety of children’s music on the guitar and banjo, and there are bells and shakers for the children to play. For more information, call the Carnegie Library- 863-3214.
Tuesday – 11/16
10am & 1pm in Turners Falls: Tony Vacca’s Rhythm Griots at the Shea Theater (71 Avenue A). 863-2281 http://www.theshea.org (>$)
10am in Leverett: Music Together teacher, Heleen Cardinaux (Music Together for Valley Families) will lead Music and Movement at the Leverett Elementary School Music Room every Tuesday in November. Register by calling (978) 544-5157
4pm in Florence: Puppet Show-Sing along Time with Anna Sobel of Talking Hands Theatre at Cup & Top Cafe (1 N Main St.). 585-9565 http://www.cupandtop.com (FREE)
Ongoing
♦9am-1pm in Amherst: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse (121 North Pleasant St.). Use rear entrance. 256-1145 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Sunderland: Drop-in playgroup at the Sunderland Elementary School (27 Old Amherst Rd.) 475-1553 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11am in South Hadley: Drop-in playgroups at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 http://www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11am in Amherst: Parents Together Support Group at the Amherst Family Center. An alternative support group for parents who learn best in non-traditional ways and have kids 5yo or under. Come play games, learn parenting skills, create art, go on field trips/picnics and discuss ways to keep your family happy and healthy. Transportation, childcare, games, prizes, food and coffee will be provided. To learn more about this program and register, call Kris Larson at 834-3344 or email krislarson@unitedarc.org (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Sandisfield: Playgroup at Sandisfield Old Town Hall. 644-0104 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in West Stockbridge: Playgroup at W. Stockbridge Town Hall. Gym Fun. 644-0104 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Northampton: Playgroup at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 9:30am-12:30pm in Belchertown: The Belchertown Family Center (720 Franklin St.) is open for drop-in playgroups for families with children 0-5yo. 283-7594 http://www.belchertownfamilycenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 10am in North Adams: Berkshire Nursing Families at the Haskin Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
♦ 10am in North Adams: Preschool Play and Learn Group at the Haskins Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
♦ 10am in Florence: Kulp Memorial Lap Sitting at the Lilly Library for youngest ones 587-1500 http://www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10-11am in Leverett: Happy Dan the Music Man: Sing With Your Baby Music, Movement, Instruments, and Fun for 0-2 year olds at the Leverett Crafts and Arts building (13 Montague Rd.). 259-1808 (>$ DONATION)
♦ 10-11am in Greenfield: Pre-School Storyhour at the Greenfield Public Library (402 Main Street). Mrs. Sally Ahearn leads this story time for children ages 5 and under. 772-1544 http://www.greenfieldpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10-11:30am in Easthampton: Drop-in playgroup at the Easthampton Family Center (43 Main St.). http://www.easthamptonfamilycenter.org (FREE)
♦ 10am-12Noon in Greenfield: Drop-in playgroups at the Greenfield Family Center (90 Federal St.). 475-1553 (FREE)
♦ 10am-4pm in Northampton: The Botanic Garden Lyman Conservatory of Smith College (15 College Lane) will host a Fall Chrysanthemum Show. A sweet event to take the family to. 585-2740 Northampton, MA (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 10:15-12:15am in Northampton: MotherWoman Postpartum Support Group at the Community Action Building (56 Vernon St.). Confidential drop-in group for mothers of infants and babies up to one year old who are experiencing a challenging postpartum time. Expectant mothers welcome. Free childcare up to four years old. 253-8990 wwwmotherwoman.org (FREE)
♦ 10:30am in Springfield: Preschool Storytime at the Springfield Central Library. Stories, songs, and a craft. Perfect for ages 3-5 years, with siblings welcome. Pre-registration required if you’ll be bringing more than 4 children . 263-6828, x201. http://www.springfieldlibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10:30am in Amherst: Sing with your Baby at the Jones Library in the large room. http://www.joneslibrary.org (FREE )
♦ 10am-12Noon in West Springfield: Drop-in playgroup at the First Congregational Church (20 Lathrop St.) for all parents and caregivers of babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. 734-7667 (FREE)
♦ 10:45am-12:35pm in Springfield: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.) Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)
♦ 11:00am in Hatfield: Preschool story hour lead by Carolyn Mazel at the Hatfield Library (39 Main St.). Geared to ages 3-5, each story hour includes books, songs, finger plays, a play along with musical instruments, and a simple craft. 247-9097 (FREE)
♦ 11am in Florence: Toddler Time at the Lilly Library. 587-1500 http://www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 11am in Lenox: Toddler Story Time at the Lenox Library (18 Main Street). Story Time is for children age 18 months to 3 years. Children & their caregivers sing songs, learn finger plays & listen to a story. Following the structured program, participants are invited to stay so that the children can play together & their caregivers can visit. (FREE)
♦ 11am-12:50pm & 3-4:50pm in Holyoke: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
♦ 12:30pm in Pittsfield: Chow Time in the aquarium at 12:30pm at the Berkshire Museum. 443-7171 http://www.berkshiremuseum.org (FREE w/museum admission)
♦ 1-3pm in Northampton: New Mothers Circle at Cradle. 341-5282 http://www.cradlefamily.com (FREE)
♦ 2-3:50pm in Greenfield: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
♦ 2:15pm in Amherst: Baby-friendly movie screening at the Amherst Cinema. ($)
♦ 3:30-4:45pm in Millers Falls: Millers Falls Library Club (23 Bridge St.). An afterschool program with drop-in sessions for children of all ages. Activities include arts and crafts, snacks and homework help. 659-3801 http://www.montaguepubliclibraries.org (FREE)
♦3:30pm in Lee: Tail Waggin’ Tutors program at the Lee Library with Addie. Addie is a “Tail Waggin’ Tutor” certified by Therapy Dogs International as a trained therapy dog. The Tail Waggin’ Tutors program encourages children to read by providing a non-judgmental listener and furry friend to read to. All ages. 243-0385 (FREE)
♦ 4-5pm in Northampton: Girls Circle Yoga at Embodiment Studio (94 King St., 2nd floor), an ongoing weekly group for like-hearted, mind, and spirited girls. This class is created for reducing anxiety, digestive stress, emotional stress and overwhelming emotions. 695-6950 ($)
♦ 4:30pm in Florence: I Can Read Book Club at the Lilly Library. 587-1500 http://www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
Wednesday – 11/17
12:15-3pm in Northfield: Learn how to be a better team player at the Dickinson Memorial Library. Local HS team captains and Athletic Director, Gina Johnson, from the PVRHS will explore better team plaing through team-building activities and games. For kids ages 9-12. 498-2455 (FREE)
1:15-2:30pm in Montague: Montague Public Libraries’ Homeschool Program, “Harvest Bounty,” at the Carnegie Library with Ruth O’Mara and Linda Hickman. Books, crafts, traditional lore and agricultural information. 863-3214 (FREE)
6:30pm in Easthampton: Screening of Consuming Kids at Pepin School Auditorium (4 Park St.). All invited. (FREE)
7pm in Northampton: Laugh for the Health of It. Take your teenager and laugh together at the Forbes Library Community Room. Join Certified Laughter leaders Trevor Smith & Mark Sherry for an evening of fun! 374-7671 http://www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
7pm in Amherst: Author Sharon Lerner speaks at the University of Massachusetts. She will be speaking on the topic of her new book, The War on Moms: On Life in a Family Unfriendly Nation. Gordon Hall, 3rd Floor, 418 N. Pleasant St.. Free Parking in UMA lot 34 behind the church on Pleasant St. More info here.
Ongoing
♦ 9am-12Noon in Amherst: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse (121 North Pleasant St.). Use rear entrance. 256-1145 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Ware: Drop-in playgroups at the Ware Family Center in the United Church of Ware building (49 Church St.). 967-8127 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Northampton: Playgroup at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Lenox: Playgroup at Lenox Community Center. 644-0104 (FREE)
♦ 9:30am-12Noon in Turners Falls: Drop-in playgroup at the Gill-Montague Family Center (78 Avenue A). 863-4805 (FREE)
♦ 9:30am-12:30pm in Belchertown: The Belchertown Family Center (720 Franklin St.) is open for drop-in playgroups for families with children 0-5yo. 283-7594 http://www.belchertownfamilycenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 10am in New Marlborough: Library Story hour. 644-0104 (FREE)
♦ 10am in North Adams: Toddler Play and Learn Group at the Haskin Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
♦ 10am-12Noon in Greenfield: Drop-in playgroups at the Greenfield Family Center (90 Federal St.). 475-1553 (FREE)
♦ 10am in Northfield: Story time at the Northfield Public Library. with stories, crafts and snacks. 498-2455 http://www.northfieldpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10-11:30am in Hadley: Rollerskate with Tiny Tot Romp, Stop, ‘n’ Roll Skate and Play at Interskate 91 North (Hampshire Mall). Strollers welcome. Parent’s don’t have to wear skates. For Ages 6 & under. 586-2737 http://www.interskate91.com (>$)
♦ 10am-4pm in Northampton: The Botanic Garden Lyman Conservatory of Smith College (15 College Lane) will host a Fall Chrysanthemum Show. A sweet event to take the family to. 585-2740 Northampton, MA (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 10:30am-12:20pm in Springfield: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.) Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)
♦ 10:30am in Montague: Children and their families are invited to come and enjoy stories, crafts, music, activities and snacks with Ruth O’Mara at the Carnegie Library. For kids under age 5. 863-3214. (FREE)
♦ 10:30am in Leverett: Children’s story hour at the Leverett Library. http://www.leverettlibrary.org
♦ 10:30-11:45 am in Northampton: Jewish Family Jam for infants, toddlers and their caregivers. Sing, drum and dance. Led by Felicia Sloin at Lander Grinspoon Academy (257 Prospect St.). 737-2601 http://www.jfswm.org (>$)
♦ 10:30-11:45am in Amherst: Momma and Baby Yoga (Start after 7 weeks postpartum) at the CDH outpatient offices at 170 University Drive. Pre-registration is required: 582-2736, press “3” for Yoga
♦ 11am in Northampton: Toddler Time at the Forbes Library. 587-1011 http://www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 11am-12Noon in South Hadley: Parent with infant group at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 http://www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE)
♦ 12-1:40pm in Greenfield: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
♦ 1pm in Northampton: Baby-friendly movie screening at the Pleasant Street Theater. ($)
♦ 3-4:50pm in Holyoke: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
♦ 4pm in Northampton:Parenting/Baby Group at the Forbes Library. Call to pre-register. 587-1011 http://www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 4:15pm in Northampton: Family Yoga for ages 3yo and up at the Hampshire Regional YMCA. 584-7086 (MEMBERS)
♦ 4:30pm in Northampton: Yo-Yo School at A2Z. Come visit yo-yo school and learn to yo-yo for free with A2Z. (FREE)
5-7:15pm in Chicopee: Grandparents as Parents at the Chicopee Senior Center (7 Valley View Ct.). Meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month. 534-3698 (FREE)
7pm in Northampton: Knitting Clinic at the Forbes Library. Knitters of all experience levels are welcome to attend. (FREE)
Thursday – 11/18
5pm in Hadley: There will be a public forum in the Music Room at Hopkins Academy about the Hadley Public Schools’ proposed Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan. 584-5011 More info here. (FREE)
8:30am-12Midnight in Pittsfield: Calling all Harry Potter fans in The Berkshires of Western Massachusetts … Cultural Pittsfield is hosting a street party tomorrow from 8:30pm-12Midnight. The Beacon Cinema will have a Harry Potter Midnight Premiere/ Beacon Cinema Birthday Party!, there will be costume contests, a Quidditch Demo Game, Butterbeer and more. Check out the fun HERE.
Ongoing
♦ 9am in Great Barrington: Kids’ Kitchen with Melanie Seserman at the CHP Family Services Building (442 Stockbridge Rd.). A cooking class for kids 2.5-5yo to learn about healthy food choices. http://www.communityhealthprograms.org 644-0104 (FREE)
♦9am-1pm in Amherst: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse (121 North Pleasant St.). Use rear entrance. 256-1145 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Ware: Drop-in playgroups at the Ware Family Center in the United Church of Ware building (49 Church St.). 967-8127 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Sunderland: Drop-in playgroup at the Sunderland Elementary School (27 Old Amherst Rd.) 475-1553 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11am in South Hadley: Drop-in playgroups at the South Hadley Family Center at All Saints’ Episcopal Church on Route 116, across from the Post Office in South Hadley Center (7 Woodbridge St.). 533-7096 http://www.shfamilycenter.org (FREE)
♦ 9:30-11:30am in Northampton: Music class at the Northampton Parent Center. 582-2636 http://www.northamptonparentscenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 9:30am-12:30pm in Belchertown: The Belchertown Family Center (720 Franklin St.) is open for drop-in playgroups for families with children 0-5yo. 283-7594 http://www.belchertownfamilycenter.org (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 10am in Millers Falls: Music and Movement series with Tom Carroll and Laurie Davidson at the Millers Falls Library 23 Bridge St.). Young children of all ages and their parents or caregivers. 863-3214 (FREE)
♦ 10am in Dalton: Story time at the Dalton Free Public Library (462 Main St.) for preschool kids. 684-6112 (FREE)
♦ 10am in Florence: Pre-school Story Time at the Lilly Library. 587-1500 http://www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10am-4pm in Northampton: The Botanic Garden Lyman Conservatory of Smith College (15 College Lane) will host a Fall Chrysanthemum Show. A sweet event to take the family to. 585-2740 Northampton, MA (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 10:30am in Easthampton: Story hour at the Emily Williston Memorial Library (9 Park St.). http://www.ewmlibrary.org 527-1031
♦ 10:30am in Springfield: Preschool Storytime at the Springfield Central Library. Stories, songs, and a craft. Perfect for ages 3-5 years, with siblings welcome. Pre-registration required if you’ll be bringing more than 4 children . 263-6828, x201. http://www.springfieldlibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10:30am in Amherst: Preschool Story Time at the Jones Library in the Children’s Room. http://www.joneslibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10:45am-12:35pm in Springfield: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.). Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)
♦ 11-11:45am in Lenox: Preschool Story-Craft for children ages three to five at the Lenox Library Association featuring stories, songs and follow-along activities followed by a craft related to the story. 637-0197 x105 (FREE)
♦ 11:30am in North Adams: Teen to 23 Group at the Haskins Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
♦ 1pm in Northampton: Baby playgroup at the Forbes Library. 587-1011 http://www.forbeslibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 1-3pm in Great Barrington: Infant/Toddler Playgroup Group at the CHP Family Services Building (442 Stockbridge Rd.) 644-0104 http://www.communityhealthprograms.org (FREE)
♦ 2-3:50pm in Greenfield: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
♦ 3-4:50pm in Holyoke: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
Friday – 11/19
10am & 1pm in Turners Falls: Tanglewood Marionettes perform The Dragon King at the Shea Theater (71 Avenue A). 863-2281 http://www.theshea.org (>$)
Ongoing
♦ 9am in Stockbridge: The Berkshire Day School (Route 183) welcomes all to a Music & Me playgroup for kids 2-4yo. This is an hour long circle time with sing-alongs, story and crafts. 637-0755 http://www.berkshirecountryday.org (FREE)
♦ 9am-12Noon in Amherst: Drop-in playgroup at the Amherst Family Center, downtown at the Unitarian Meetinghouse (121 North Pleasant St.). Use rear entrance. 256-1145 (FREE)
♦ 9:30am in Amherst: Pre-school Spanish immersion program for kids under 6yo at the First Baptist Church. (954) 829-5233 (FREE)
♦ 9:30-10:30am in Holyoke: Read to Grow preschool program at the Children’s Museum (444 Dwight St.). 536-5437 (>$)
♦ 9:30am-12Noon in Turners Falls: Drop-in playgroup at the Gill-Montague Family Center (78 Avenue A). 863-4805 (FREE)
♦ 10am in North Adams: Baby Group at the Haskins Community Center (210 State St.). 663-6593 (FREE)
♦ 10-11am in Belchertown: Happy Dan the Music Man: Sing With Your Baby Music, Movement, Instruments, and Fun for 0-2 year olds at the Clapp Memorial Library. 259-1808 (>$ DONATION)
♦ 10am in Florence: Mother Goose: Music, Stories and Movement – at the Lilly Library. 587-1500 http://www.lillylibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 10am & 11am in Pittsfield: Aquarium Adventures. Each week children ages 2-4 meet a different animal from Berkshire Museum’s aquarium and watch as their new friend enjoys a meal. Story time is included. Free with Museum admission.
♦ 10-11:30am in Easthampton: Drop-in playgroup at the Easthampton Family Center (43 Main St.). http://www.easthamptonfamilycenter.org (FREE)
♦ 10am-4pm in Northampton: The Botanic Garden Lyman Conservatory of Smith College (15 College Lane) will host a Fall Chrysanthemum Show. A sweet event to take the family to. 585-2740 Northampton, MA (FREE, DONATION)
♦ 10:30am-12:20pm in Springfield: Public ice skating at Smead Arena (1780 Roosevelt Ave.). Skate rentals available. 781-2599 ($)
♦ 11am in Sunderland: Story/craft time for kids ages 3-5yo and their families at the Sunderland Public Library (20 School St.). Each storytime is approximately 45 minutes in length for theme-related stories, songs, finger plays and crafts! 665-2642 sunderlandpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 11am in Greenfield: Mother Goose on the Loose makes early learning lots of hands-on fun with songs, rhymes, and activities geared for the 3 and under audience. http://www.greenfieldpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 2pm in Springfield: Planetarium show at the Springfield Museum. 263-6800 http://www.springfieldmuseums.org (>$)
♦ 2pm in Huntington: Baby-Time Meet & Greet at the Huntington Library. Feel like you haven’t spoken a complete sentence to another adult during the day..then this is the group for you. Parents or caregivers of infants and toddlers are invited to the Library for a short singing/story session with the children, and then a chance to make new friends. 667-3506 http://www.thehuntingtonpubliclibrary.org (FREE)
♦ 2-3:50pm in Greenfield: Public ice skating at Collins/Moylan Arena (41 Barr Ave.). Skate rentals available. 772-6891 ($)
♦ 3-4:50pm in Holyoke: Public ice skating at Fitzpatrick Arena (575 Maple St.) Skate rentals available. 532-2929 ($)
5:30-7pm in Northampton: Family Fun Fridays at the Northampton YMCA in the gym. Free for members. 584.7086 http://www.hrymca.org (>$)