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Hampshire County

Blog / Family Fun

My Local Escape: Hampshire County

Inn on Boltwood
Inn on Boltwood
Photo provided by Inn on Boltwood

As 2020 ends, it is vital to the health of our community and economy that you support small business and #ThinkLocalFirst when it comes to holiday shopping and gift-giving. Take the pledge to give thanks for those who make local happen by putting your money where your heart is: right here in Massachusetts.

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We’re Mad for Maple

Red Bucket Sugar Shack
Red Bucket Sugar Shack
Photo by Lynne Graves

As the last of the snow starts to melt, we’re all mad for maple, and seeking our fix.

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Warm Up to Winter in Western Mass

Atrium at The Hotel Northampton
Atrium at The Hotel Northampton
Photo by Lynne Graves

In Western Massachusetts, we love winter. And we’re almost certain you will too.

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Happy Holidays from Hampshire County

First Night Northampton
First Night Northampton
Photo by Eric Kaplan for MassLive

Research has shown that the people most susceptible to joy are people consciously fostering gratitude in their day-to-day lives. So this holiday season, in an effort to tip the scales toward joy, we’re going all-in on appreciation. And we’re starting right here in Hampshire County.

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Fall Fairs and Festivals in Hampshire County

Belchertown Fair
Belchertown Fair
Photo by Lynne Graves

Ready to get autumnal? We've got a roundup of all the best fall fests and fairs right here. 

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Date: Sep 12, 2019 | Posted by: Kathryn Slater | Category: Explore, Culture, Festivals & Fairs, Family Fun, Eat, Farms, Fall

Most Instagrammable Spots in Hampshire County

Mill Buildings in Easthampton
Mill Buildings in Easthampton
Photo courtesy of @alcides_coop

In Hampshire County, we’re known for our scenery. And unlike other places that are famous for one beautiful thing or another, we really run the gamut. We have mountaintop views and swimming holes. Waterfalls and the winding Connecticut River. There are farm fields, bike path bridges, botanical gardens, and historic buildings.  The old saying goes — if a tree falls in the woods, does it make a sound? Updated for the digital age — if you didn’t post it on…

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The Relaxing Side of Hampshire County: Part Two

Lilly Pond, Goshen
Lilly Pond, Goshen
Photo by Lynne Graves

Welcome to the Relaxing Side of Hampshire County, where people come from far and wide — to feel good. Need to rejuvenate? We’ve got a yoga class for that. Seeking a good sweat? Our recreation options are endless.

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The Family Side of MA: Find Fun for Everyone in Hampshire County

Red Bucket Sugar Shack
Red Bucket Sugar Shack
Lynne Graves

Though winter in Western Massachusetts has many charms (softly falling snow, holiday light displays, and cozy cafes come to mind), by the time March rolls around everyone is yearning for spring and clamoring to get out and about. Cure cabin fever with these late winter family-friendly activities in Hampshire County.  North Hadley Sugar Shack | Lynne Graves Photography Make the most of maple sugaring season with a visit to the North Hadley Sugar Shack. Check out the evaporator room to see…

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Date: Feb 28, 2019 | Posted by: vincejackson | Category: Explore, Recreation, Family Fun, Eat, Restaurants, Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Grocery Stores, Co-op

Toast the Good Life

Black Birch Vineyard Wine Tasting
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).

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4 Ways to Get Spooky in Western MA for Halloween

Amherst Cinema | Photo by Lynne Graves
Amherst Cinema | Photo by Lynne Graves

With Halloween right around the corner, we figured some of you might want to get out there and have a little spooky fun in Western Massachusetts. And if spooks and horror aren't for you, everyone loves to have fun dressing up with a good party to attend. Haunted hayrides, ghost tours, costume parties and more this Halloween in Western Massachusetts.

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Date: Oct 21, 2016 | Posted by: vincejackson | Category: Explore, Art, Performing Arts, Culture, Historical Museums & Monuments, Family Fun
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