In Preparation for the Holidays

Photo courtesy of earl53

I assume many of you are busily preparing for the upcoming holiday as it is quickly approaching. Much like everybody else, the locals of the Berkshires are scurrying to shopping malls, Christmas tree farms and grocery stores checking off their holiday “to-do” lists. The holiday has snuck up on a lot of us, the gift wrap aisles look like they’ve endured a hurricane of their own and Christmas trees on car roofs whip by at record speeds this week. This afternoon however, has slowed down quite a bit as Mother Nature started sprinkling fluffy snowflakes over our valley. A steady fall left a white blanket over Berkshire County and everybody who got their snow tires early this season, got to put them to good use today. For those of you thinking you’re not visiting until later this week and you might have missed the snow, do not fret! We’re expecting one of our famous Nor’easter storms this weekend! Forget the cute Christmas sweaters I mentioned last week, you’re going to need shovels, snow plows, and don’t forget those ice-scrapers and brushes for the cars because we could be receiving anywhere from six to eighteen inches of snow this Saturday into Sunday! It will be very cold and very white, so to all of our visitors, brace yourselves!

Snow or no snow there are always lots of things to do for all ages here. This week we have everything from Holiday farmers’ markets to Shakespeare plays to pajama and pillow parties! I’m sure there will be something offered to ensure you will not have a boring trip! “But, Blair, what if there’s TOO much snow? What will we be able to do?” there, there my little motel visitors, there’s no such thing as too much snow! In such cases, ask me about local ski resorts and discounted tickets! Ask about local sleigh rides when you arrive or fantastic hills to take the kids sledding. I’m a fun-in-the-snow professional!

           

December 12

National Theatre Live: The Habit of Art

The Clark Art in Williamstown, MA presents, Benjamin Britten, sailing uncomfortably close to the wind with his new opera, Death in Venice, seeks advice from his former collaborator and friend, W.H. Auden. During this imagined meeting, their first in twenty-five years, they are observed and interrupted by, amongst others, their future biographer and a young man from the local bus station. Alan Bennett’s play reflects on growing old, on creativity and inspiration, and on persisting when all passion’s spent: ultimately, on the habit of art.

The Outlet at Pine Cone Hill Pajama & Pillow Party!

Pine Cone Hill Outlet in Pittsfield, MA! Take an extra 20% off decorative pillows, sleepwear, and loungewear, including their fabulous Sheepy Fleece robes. Enjoy popcorn, movies, wine, maybe even a pillow fight. Wear your pajamas—they will be too!

December 13

Julius Caesar

On the 13^th and 14^th Shakespeare & Company in Lenox, MA presents, Julius Caesar! The visceral meets the intellectual in the psychological drama. Follow the conspiracy against the Roman dictator and the aftermath of his assassination. Featuring, The Conservatory at Shakespeare & Company, an audition-only three month intensive training program for professional artists to master their craft.

December 14

A Christmas Carol

Starting December 14^th and continuing weekly on Sunday, Friday and Saturday until December 29^th , Berkshire Theatre Group in Pittsfield, MA presents, A Christmas Carol. Revel in the joy and redemptive power of Christmas as told in the timeless tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, the infamous miser who is reformed and shown the error of his ways by four spirits. Journey back to Victorian England and experience the classic story filled with terrific turns and infused with holiday music.

Berkshire Grown Holiday Farmers’ Market

Berkshire Grown of Great Barrington, MA will be holding a Holiday Farmers’ Market on the 14^th and the 15^th. Featuring locally grown and produced foods, including fruits and vegetables, cheese, eggs, meat, poultry, bread, pies, pickles, jams, and more, Also, enjoy live music and children’s activities. Saturday: Monument Valley Middle School, 313 Monument Valley Road, Great Barrington. Sunday: Williams College Towne Field House, 82 Latham Street, Williamstown.

December 15

Christmas at Trinity

Cantilena Chamber Choir of Lenox, MA will be presenting Christmas at Trinity.The performance by the Cantilena Chamber Choir at Trinity Church 88 Walker St., Lenox, will feature the Quartre motets pour le temps de Noel by Francis Poulenc and music for Christmas by Russian masters Rachmaninov and Titov. In continuation of Benjamin Britten’s 100th Birthday celebration, the choir will perform Hymn to the Virgin and his rarely heard Chorale on an Old French Carol. Also on the program are favorite John Rutter settings of French carols including Noel Nouvolet and Il est Ne le Divine infant. 

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas!

Photo courtesy of imagefactory

With the weather getting colder every day here in Williamstown, the holiday décor begins to make an appearance all through town. Lights are being hung, chimneys are puffing out smoke, cookies are being baked and Christmas lists are being made J This might be my favorite time of year, holiday music plays on the radio on my way to work and holiday movies are playing when I wind down and snuggle up each evening. Hot cocoa is a staple that I keep in my home all winter long and we begin clearing space for a Christmas tree! But I’m not the only one getting excited for the holidays; the Berkshires are in full Holiday swing too! There will be lots of ways to celebrate the holidays here whether it be a family event you’re trying to plan, Christmas Tree lightings or holiday concerts that Williams College will be putting on, come celebrate with us!

Celebrate the Holidays at The Mount!

The Mount in Lenox, MA is open on three consecutive Saturdays this holiday season until December 14th. They will be debuting their new Backstairs tour – learn about the daily routines and the men and women who ran The Mount! The gift shop will be open for holiday shopping from 11am – 3pm with Backstairs Tours at 12pm & 2pm.

 “Backstairs” tours will be given at 12:00pm and 2pm.

Williams College Music for December

Beginning on the 1^st and continuing daily until December 31^st, Williams College will be putting on numerous concerts for the holiday season!

Williams College Department of Music calendar for December:

December 4^th MIDWEEKMUSIC at Chapin Hall, stage, 12:15PM
December 4^th Violin Studio Recital at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, 4pm
December 4^th Small Jazz Ensembles at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, 7pm
December 5^th Senior Viola Recital with Lysander Jaffe ’14 at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, 7pm
December 6^th  Piano Studio Recital at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall , 4pm
December 6^th  Williams College Wind Ensemble at Chapin Hall, 8pm
December 7^th Voice Studio Recital at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, 1pm
December 7^th  A Christmas Service of Lessons and Carols at Thompson Memorial Chapel, 4pm
December 7^th  Williams Student Symphony at Chapin Hall, 8pm
December 8^th  A Christmas Service of Lessons and Carols at Thompson Memorial Chapel, 4pml
December 9^th  Senior Piano Recital with Kirk Swanson ’14 at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, 4pm
December 9^th  Cello Studio Recital and Voice Studio Recital at Chapin Hall. 6pm
December 9^th  MIDWEEKMUSIC Tuesday at Chapin Hall, stage, 12:15pm
December 10^th Clarinet Choir with students of Susan Martula at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, 4pm
December 10^th Jazz Guitar Studio Recital  at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, 7pm
December 10^th  Chamber Music Studio Recital at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, 8pm

North Adams Tree Lighting Celebration

Join hundreds of festive faces on December 4^th as North Adams, MA gears up for the holiday season with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Hometown Holidays kick-off event! A crowd will gather around the tree at Monument Square on Main Street (between the First Congregational and First Baptist Churches), and count down the seconds until the switch is thrown and thousands of twinkling lights adorn the downtown. Santa will stop in for a visit with free goodie bags for the little ones. Holiday music will be provided by the Drury Band. 5pm – 7pm.

Lenox Christmas Tree Lighting

The Traditional Lenox Town Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on December 6th at 6pm at Lilac Park. Visits with Santa and Holiday Goodies will be at the Lenox Community Center directly following the Ceremony at Lilac park.

Holiday Concert with Solas

On December 6^th, the eve of Williamstown’s popular Holiday Walk weekend, the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute of Williamstown, MA welcomes Irish-American band Solas for a holiday concert. The event takes place in the Clark’s auditorium at 8 pm. Tickets are $35 ($30 members). Call 413.458.0524. Order early as holiday concerts almost always sell out.

Festival of Trees Family Day and Children’s Holiday Shopping Boutique

Admission is only $3 for everyone (even Santa). Bring the entire family to Bennington, VT to the Bennington Museum on December 7th for a special day of celebration. Children (under 18) who bring a personal care item for adults or children that will be donated to a local food pantry come in free. For the children ages 4 to 12, the Children’s Shopping Boutique offers unusual gifts for all people on their gift list. Prices range from $1 to $7 and include gift-wrapping. While at the museum, do not forget to visit with Santa! Be sure to view the “Children’s Forest,” a display featuring tabletop trees decorated by area elementary school classes.

Williamstown Holiday Walk

Join in the festivities on December 7th at the 30th Annual Williamstown Holiday walk livening Spring Street with the festive Reindog Parade, musical performances, Penny Social, Christmas Tree Showcase, Santa Claus, holiday cookie bake – off, tree lighting and much much more. 3pm – 6pm.

Pack your Christmas sweaters and we’ll be sure to make the cocoa and come visit us at The 1896 House for the Holidays! Rooms are filling up quickly this season so be sure to act fast and book your rooms with me while there are still some left! 

Thanksgiving in the Berkshires!

Photo courtesy of mensatic

Happy Thanksgiving Eve to you all! I hope everybody has fun plans with the family for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday and weekend. If you don’t have anything planned, there is SO many fun and festive things to do here in the Berkshires to ensure you thoroughly enjoy your Thanksgiving visit!

Take the family to North Adams, MA for the annual Tree Lighting Celebration, shop ‘til you drop at the Lee Outlets in Lee, MA or enjoy a tasty feast like our ancestors did at Hancock Shaker Village in Pittsfield. MA. Whatever it may be, we’ve got it going on here this week!

November 27th

North Adams Tree Lighting Celebration:

Tonight! Join hundreds of festive faces as North Adams, MA gears up for the holiday season with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Hometown Holidays kick-off event! A crowd will gather around the tree at Monument Square on Main Street (between the First Congregational and First Baptist Churches), and count down the seconds until the switch is thrown and thousands of twinkling lights adorn the downtown. Santa will stop in for a visit with free goodie bags for the little ones. Holiday music will be provided by the Drury High School Band.

November 29th (until December 1^st)

“Midnight Madness After Thanksgiving Sale”. Attention all you avid holiday shoppers! Don’t miss the biggest sale of the year! Enjoy exceptional holiday savings and extended shopping hours at Lee Premium Outlets in Lee, MA. Plan Ahead! 

“Thanksgiving Trunk Show” at Good Purpose Gallery & Spectrum Playhouse in Lee, MA, with custom handmade shoes and handbags. Molly Grant of Deerfield, New Hampshire carries on the Cordwainer tradition of custom handmade footwear that also includes her own line of handbags. Traveling the country to fine juried craft shows, creating shoes and teaching shoemaking workshops is Molly’s passion.

November 30th

“2^nd Annual Holiday Arts Festival” Tis the season of giving! Happy Holidays from 413 Glassworks! Shop local this holiday season for one-of-a-kind gifts ranging from jewelry, ceramic, fabric, wood, glass and more all at 413 Glassworks in Cheshire, MA! Totally 100% handmade holiday shopping in one place. Our artists will provide you with wonderful gifts for everyone on your shopping list including yourself! 

What Happened to Fall Ya’ll?

Photo courtesy of missyredboots

I am definitely NOT in Florida anymore, Toto! We woke up to snow AGAIN this morning! Okay, so it might not officially be winter, but it certainly feels like it here in Williamstown, MA. We won’t be seeing anything over 50 degrees all week! There was probably a little humor in last week’s blog about snow gear, but this weekend, I’m not kidding, there will be a chance of snow every day. So the joke might just be on you if you forget to pack warm clothes for your visit to Williamstown this week! J

Never the less, there’s always plenty of things going on in the area for you to stay both toasty and entertained during your visit. Many musical events will be taking place in the Berkshires this week that will be appropriate for all visitors including performances at the ’62 Center in Williamstown and various places in Pittsfield and Great Barrington, MA. There are also numerous art events happening and various family activities to enjoy in the surrounding areas as well. So plan and book with me at the 1896 House this week!

Arts and Activities

The Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield, MA will be presenting, “Festival of Trees: Today, Yesterday and Tomorrow” on Saturday the 23^rd. Travel through time at the Berkshire Museum during Festival of Trees 2013: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow and celebrate the Museum’s 110th anniversary! Dazzling decorated trees will take visitors to the nostalgia of years past, the excitement of today’s fast-paced lifestyle, and the endless possibilities for the future.

Create your very own fused glass at 413 Glassworks in Cheshire, MA! Choose from a variety of projects: ornament, pendant, sun catcher, coaster, and more. Sessions are 1 hour long. Ages 4+, all skill levels and groups are welcome.

The Norman Rockwell Museum will be hosting, “Family Day: Trains!” in Stockbridge, MA on Saturday, the 23^rd! Celebrate trains and the wonders of rail travel during this afternoon inspired by the Museum’s current exhibition, Wendell Minor’s America. Artist Wendell Minor will join to sign copies of such train-inspired books and the day will also include readings from Larry Lowenthal, author of “Titanic Railroad,” as well as stories about our national rail system from historians Jack Trowill, Curator of the Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum, and Alden Dreyer of the Railway & Locomotive Historical Society. Also coming along for the ride is author/musician Gordon Titcomb, who will sing songs about the railway.

Music

Three Dog Night will be performing in Pittsfield, MA at the Berkshire Theatre Group at 8pm on Thursday evening. This iconic band’s hits wind through the fabric of pop culture today, whether on the radio where they are heard day in and day out, in TV commercials or in major motion picture. songs like “Mama Told Me (Not To Come),” “Joy to the World,” “Black and White,” “Shambala,” and “One” serve to heighten our emotions and crystallize Three Dog Night’s continuing popularity.

Live Music at the Thornewood Inn will be starting on Thursday and continuing weekly, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday until January 1^st. Come enjoy great food in a beautiful atmosphere with Richard Dagenais on piano and David Thorne on vocals every Friday and Saturday evening in Great Barrington, MA at the Thornewood Inn & Restaurant.

And some fun for the kids, “Milkshake” will be performing at MASS MoCA on Saturday the 23^rd. Grammy-nominated Milkshake is on a mission to create great rock music for kids. Led by singer Lisa Mathews and guitarist Mikel Gehl, they’ve popped up everywhere from PBS KIDS to Nick Jr. to the Emmy Award-winning cartoon ToddWorld, winning fans with their catchy, kid-friendly songs and electrifying live show.

Williams College Music for November

Williams CollegeDepartment of Music will be beginning the conclusion to their “Music for November” event this week, with a week’s worth of fantastic performances of great music. All performances will be held on campus at Williams College in Williamstown, MA.  Which by the way, is just a 4 minute trip from The 1896 House!

November 22^nd- Berkshire Symphony at Chapin Hall, 8pm. 7:15pm Pre-Concert Talk with conductor Ronald Feldman at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall
November 22^nd- Zambezi and Kusika in Dance Department All Company Concerts at ’62 Center, 8pm
November 23^rd- Williams Gospel Choir at Chapin Hall, 7pm
November 23^rd- Zambezi and Kusika in Dance Department All Company Concerts at ’62 Center, 8pm
November 24^th- Williams Jazz Sextet at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, 2pm

We look forward to seeing you all this week and perhaps enjoying a frosty week in the Berkshires with you!

Greetings from Florida

Photo courtesy of Annika

Williamstown has officially seen snow this week! Winter has arrived and it’s getting cold! So I’ve heard anyways, I’m currently sitting in the 80-degree weather of Florida J avoiding winter as long as I can.

For those of you who are planning your trips to the Berkshires this week, here’s what’s going on and what you can expect.

Weather wise, it is currently 30 degrees in Williamstown and will be fluctuating all week, but probably won’t be any warmer than 50 degrees, so be sure to pack accordingly, gloves, hats, winter coats, (snow suits and parkas, ha, ha!) are all acceptable this week. But probably a little too soon for skis and snowboards, maybe next week! ;)

Some events going on this week (there’s A LOT!) include:

First Fridays Artswalk in Pittsfield

Enjoy a display of art in indoor galleries, retail and hospitality businesses along North Street and South Street corridor. This is an ongoing event that will continue until December 27^th so there are lots of opportunities for you and your family to enjoy arts and activities in downtown Pittsfield, MA.

Live Music at the Thornewood Inn

Enjoy great food in a beautiful atmosphere of the Thornewood Inn and Restaurant in Great Barrington, MA. Enjoy Richard Dagenais on the piano and David Thorne on vocals every Friday and Saturday evening until January 1^st. Also until January 1^st, every first Thursday of the month you can see Wanda Houston and friends with some swingin’ jazz over a delightful dinner.

Williams College Music for November:

November 13^th- MIDWEEKMUSIC at Chapin Hall, stage. 12:15pm


November 13^th- Visiting Artists Momenta Quartet at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, 8pm


November 15^th- Williams Concert and Chamber Choirs at Thompson Memorial Chapel, 8pm


November 16^th- Williams Vocal Jazz Ensemble at Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, 4pm


November 16^th- Williams Percussion Ensemble (WiPE) at Chapin Hall, 8pm

All at Williams College in Williamstown, MA and only about a 5 minute drive from The 1896 House!

National Theatre Live: Fifty Years on Stage

To celebrate its 50^th anniversary, the National Theatre presents an exciting evening of live theatre, directed by Nicolas Hytner on November 14^th. The celebration includes rare glimpses from the archive, featuring many of the original actors who have performed on the National’s stages over the past five decades! This all takes place at The Clark in Williamstown, MA.

It’s a busy week here in the Berkshires with all sorts of fun events for you and the family to enjoy while you’re here! Book your rooms with us here at The 1896 House for some early fun in the snow! Pack accordingly and maybe bring a sled or two J

It’s All Purple and Gold in Williamstown!

Williams’ Homecoming weekend is upon us! Are you planning your homecoming weekend with your Eph in Williamstown this week? Well here’s what Williams College and the surrounding areas have to offer while you’re here!

Looking for a fun Friday evening?

“Standards, Show Tunes and Surprises” is happening Friday night, November 8^th in the Tavern at the Williams Inn. Howie Levitz, TGL Tunes, plays the piano every Friday night! Come dance and enjoy great music!

Berkshire Theatre Group presents Gordon Lightfoot at The Colonial Theatre on November 8^th. Gordon Lightfoot has recorded 20 albums and received five GRAMMY nominations. His songs have been aired regularly and his radio hits in the USA have earned five #1s, five Top 10s and thirteen Top 40 hits. This is guaranteed to be a great concert!

At Williams: There will be the Homecoming Chili Fest on November 9^th. Join the Williams community for chili and Eph camaraderie under their hospitality tent at Weston Field.

While you’re here, be sure to visit the Homecoming Spirit tent next to Hospitality Tent for purple projects, face painting, pictures with the Purple Cow and Williams spirit treats and goodies!

Then of course, grab your chili and find a spot in the stands to cheer on the Williams Football team as they take on Amherst at 12pm! Go Ephs!

For the Clark Art fans out there, The Clark will be hosting Live in HD: Tosca on November, 9^th. Tosca, the famed opera that includes some of Giacomo Puccini’s most beloved melodies, will be airing live at the institute from the Metropolitan Opera.

Be sure to bring the whole family for all the fun and pack your best purple and gold outfits for game day and the weekend activities! Book your rooms while there are still rooms left and come stay with us at the 1896 House! We can’t wait to see you!

Haunts and Hoots Happening through Halloween

Photo courtesy of matthew_hull

Spending your spooky weekend with us in the Berkshires? There are many creepy-crawly things to do on the spookiest day of the year!

Spend your Halloween day on a haunted trolley ride for the Downstreet Art Thursday celebration in North Adams. Ride to all the galleries, Re-Wilderment exhibition opening and much more. Come evening, Downstreet Art Thursday presents, Ryder Cooley and friends in a creepy concert, calling out spirits!

Perhaps later, you may want to attend the reading of Edith Wharton’s “Kerfol” at her very own pet cemetery at The Mount. “Kerfol” is one of Edith Wharton’s most perplexing ghost stories. The Mount will open at 6 pm for light refreshments and the reading by Ariel Block and Dennis Krausnick, will begin at 6:30.

If you aren’t too scared after the reading, enjoy a 90 minute Ghost tour at 8:30 pm or a Witching Hour ghost tour at 10:30 pm, costumes are encouraged! So come creepy and enjoy a ghoul-ish Halloween at The Mount!

For those of you who aren’t arriving until Friday, the Great Barrington Historical Society is holding a Haunted Hayride Friday evening at 6:30 pm.

So pack your costumes, load up the brooms and come get spooky in the Berkshire and slumber at the 1896 House this creepy weekend!