Blog / Artists, Artisans & Craft Makers
Ho-Hum Holiday Shopping Gets the Heave-Ho
ASSEMBLE Northampton
Photo by Lynne Graves
It’s early November and nearly impossible to deny — THE HOLIDAYS ARE HERE. Retailers have skipped Thanksgiving and gone straight to “Ho, Ho, Ho.” We’re already sick of pumpkin spice. And that lovely anxiety about getting the holiday shopping started has already started to creep in. What we’re here to tell you, is that your gift-buying dreams have come true. In Hampshire County, we’re stacked with the one-of-a-kind presents you love to give AND get.
What’s New in Hampshire County: Head out to the Hilltowns
Rainbow over a field in Worthington
Photo by Lynne Graves
Tucked bucolically between the Pioneer Valley and the heart of the Berkshires, you’ll find the Hilltowns of Western Massachusetts — a collection of 39 communities that span areas of Berkshire, Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. For anyone curious, the Hilltowns of Hampshire County include Chesterfield, Cummington, Goshen, Huntington, Middlefield, Plainfield, Westhampton, Williamsburg, and Worthington. Now repeat the list 10 times fast. OR, just put this area on your…
We’ve Got ART Going On
Cottage Street Studios
Lynne Graves
Even in our haven of art and culture, ArtWeek MA is a festival that stands apart. Partially by design, because you’re required to demonstrate a special something to be accepted. And partially because every event is a truly spectacular glimpse behind the scenes. Dance performances are turned on their heads. Potters may invite you to throw your own clay. It’s the Other Side of Art on the Other Side of Massachusetts (see what we did there?). Not only will you experience The Artistic…
The Art of Giving: Unique Shopping Experiences in Western Mass
Kaleidoscope Pottery
Photo by Lynne Graves
This month, we’re feeling thankful on the Otherside of Massachusetts. Okay, maybe it’s because making a list of things we’re thankful for is easier than starting the holiday shopping list…but we won’t fret! Holiday shopping in Western Mass is more of an adventure than a boring chore, so grab your seasonal hot beverage of choice and visit these not-to-miss shops and spots for one-of-a-kind gifts that will make your friends and family wonder where on earth you found that perfect gift. Don’t worry, it’s a secret we’re delighted to share!
Toast the Good Life
Black Birch Vineyard Wine Tasting
Photo by Lynne Graves
The good life is especially worth toasting in Western Massachusetts during the summer. Here’s our top 10 list (in no particular order).
9 Things to Add to Your Made in Massachusetts Shopping List
Heavenly Chocolate, Northampton | Photo by Lynne Graves
Looking for a little help on your holiday gift list? Here’s our list of 9 great gifts that are made in Western Massachusetts that you can find when you visit or even online in many cases.
4 Unique Holiday Shopping Experiences in Western MA
Snow Farm Seconds Sale | Photo by Lynne Graves
If you're searching for a handmade gift but you don't have the time to make something yourself, turn to our local artists in Western MA! Visit Open Studios in Florence and Easthampton and special artisan sales like Seconds Sales at Snow Farm: The New England Craft Program in Williamsburg or Makers Market at the Parlor Room in Northampton. Meet the artists themselves, buy unique gifts for the holidays, and most importantly, support a booming local creative economy.
10 Ways to Make the Most of Late Fall in Western MA
Northampton International Cyclocross | Photo by Cycle-Smart
The leaves are falling fast, daylight savings ends soon, and the holidays are fast-approaching, but that doesn’t mean the fun stops between now and Thanksgiving. Before you slip into a holiday craze, take some time for yourself and plan a visit to Western Massachusetts. There’s a lot of great things going on all throughout the fall for foodies, culture vultures and everything in between.
22 New Things to Check Out in Western Massachusetts
Hitchcock Center for the Environment | Photo by Jessica Schultz
With the return of the school year and the changing of seasons among us, we’re heading into one of the best times of the year in Western Massachusetts. As you plan your fall visits to Hampshire County, be sure to consider adding some of these new places to eat, learn, shop and explore as well as events to your itinerary!
How to Spend a Weekend in the Hilltowns of Western MA
William Cullen Bryant Homestead, Cummington | Photo by the Trustees of Reservations
When you visit Hampshire County of Western Massachusetts, the bustling downtown destinations only make up half the equation. There’s so much to discover beyond our city lines, particularly in the Hilltowns of western Hampshire County—Chesterfield, Cummington, Goshen, Huntington, Middlefield, Planfield, Westhampton, Williamsburg and Worthington. This part of Hampshire County is home to Snow Farm: The New England Craft Program and countless other artists finding inspiration…