8 Great Date Ideas in Western Massachusetts this February
Amherst Cinema | Photo by Lynne Graves
Valentine’s Day is just one day of the month (of the entire year!) and this February, there’s way too much going on that’s supremely date-worthy. Check out some of our top picks for things to do in western Massachusetts this month, whether it be with your sweetheart or your friends.
Saturday, February 6
Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day
Why wait for dessert? Herrell’s usually opens for noon but on Saturday, February 6, this Northampton ice cream shop will open at 9 a.m. for the second annual National Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day benefit. You can get waffles with your ice cream, cereal Smoosh-ins®, coffee ala mode, and more.
Wednesday, February 10
Lars & The Real Girl at Amherst Cinema
The heartwarming indie romantic dramedy stars heartthrob Ryan Gosling as a shy young man who begins dating a “real doll” to overcome his social anxiety. Arrive early for a craft beer and wine tasting in the lobby, and stay for an after-party at neighboring restaurant Osteria Vespa for a “Love Song Karaoke Contest.” See more events and showings at Amherst Cinema here.
Friday, February 12
I Am Big Bird Film Presentation
In case you haven’t heard, Big Bird is coming to Northampton. The Northampton Arts Council presents a special screening of the loving documentary I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney Story, which will be following by a Q&A with the man who’s been under the feathers all along. Read more about Northampton Arts Council's other Four Sundays in February events here.
Saturday, February 13
Easthampton WinterFest
In its third year, the Nashawannuck Pond Association celebrates its historic ice harvest with a city-wide festival for all ages. Go on a guided winter nature or take a horse drawn wagon ride around town. Grab a frosty pint with live music at Easthampton’s three breweries or warm up by the community bonfire by the pond. These are the things winter dream dates are made of.
Sunday, February 14
Maple Lovers Breakfast
On Valentine’s Day proper, celebrate your love of Massachusetts-made maple syrup! Sugaring season is another month or so away, but this pancake buffet is sure to tease your appetite for the sweetest time of year.
Sunday, February 21
June Millington Retrospective
Take a glance into the life of rock ‘n roll pioneer June Millington, member of the early all-female rock group Fanny, with an afternoon of stories, pictures and songs. This nearly lost rock legend has called western Massachusetts her home since 2001 when she moved the Institute for Musical Arts to Goshen, MA. The lineup features an incredible array of performers including Holly Near, Jill Sobule, Toshi Reagon, Gail Ann Dorsey, Christine Ohlman and Sonya Kitchell as well as other members of Fanny. Read more about Northampton Arts Council's other Four Sundays in February events here.
Wednesday, February 24
Academy of Music History Tour
In addition to all the great things happening on stage at the Academy, think about all the great things that have happened off! With 125 years under its belt, there’s no shortage of stories at this historic downtown Northampton theater. See more events at the Academy of Music here.
February 25-28
Back Porch Festival
Signature Sounds presents its Second Annual Back Porch Festival February 25-28 in Northampton, MA with three Grammy-Award winners and an all-star lineup of American roots artists featuring Los Lobos, Steep Canyon Rangers, Peter Rowan, Mandolin Orange, Laura Cantrell, The Suitcase Junket and more to be announced. Shows will be held at The Academy of Music and The Parlor Room. See more Signature Sounds events here.
Bonus! Find more great date ideas on our list of tasting experiences in western Massachusetts!