Blog / Music
My Local Escape: Hampshire County
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.
Happy Holidays from Hampshire County
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.
Planning the Perfect Fall Wedding in Hampshire County: Part Three
The Mossy Apothecary
Photo by Lynne Graves
In Part One, we gave you the rundown on venues, illustrating the incredible range of options you have in the Pioneer Valley. In Part Two, we gave you some fabulous options for food, flowers, and photographers. In Part Three, we’re rounding out our series with some tried and true strategies for keeping the wedding party happy. You may be thinking, “Hey! It’s my wedding. Why am I worried about my bridesmaids and groomsmen?” So glad you asked! They’re holding the keys to your perfect wedding weekend. They’re in charge of the rings. They’re running interference between all of your feuding relatives. And in some cases, they’re traveling from some faraway corner of the world to be with you. Treat those superstars right. Give ‘em the props they deserve. And do it in major style in the place we all love best — Hampshire County, of course.
What’s New in Hampshire County: Exit Here for Easthampton
Luthier's Co-Op
Photo by Lynne Graves
Easthampton is officially — a destination. And as more musicians, artists, foodies, and young families move into the community, it’s only getting better. Come for a hike on Mt. Tom, and stay for the incredible food, classic cocktails, and concerts on Mill Pond. Just don’t be surprised if you decide to move there.
Celebrate the Season on The Other Side of Massachusetts
Arcadia Mass Audubon’s Winter Solstice & Forest Luminaria Walk
Lynne Graves Photography
Celebrate "the most wonderful time of the year" at one of our festive events.
6 Indoor Reasons To Love Winter in Western Massachusetts
Amherst Coffee | Photo by Lynne Graves
Sure, winters in New England mean more time spent inside. But we also think part of the fun of a New England winter is finding ways to have fun while staying warm without just surrendering under the blankets on our couches. While the Pixies’s famous lyric dubbed Western Massachusetts “the sleepy west of the woody east,” there’s still a lot going on even in the short days of winter and plenty of places to keep warm. From endless entertainment options, hot tub spas, & fireplaces to cozy coffee shops, bars & galleries, Western MA has plenty of ways to keep you warm this winter.
4 Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Western Massachusetts
First Night Northampton | Photo by Lynne Graves
Now that December's arrived, it's time to start thinking about how to celebrate the start of a New Year! These are our tops picks for things to do in Western Massachusetts on New Year's Eve no matter if you're looking to hang with the crowds or have a more intimate gathering at home.
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.
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!