Explore, Western Massachusetts Winter 2018

EXPLORE W I N T E R

2 0 1 8

WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS

BRIGHT NIGHTS at Forest Park PG. 26

Downtown

Great Food

DOWNTOWN BUS ROUTES AND BIKE MAPS

FEATURES AND LISTINGS OF LOCAL EATERIES

GETTING AROUND PG. 64

LOCAL FLAVOR PG. 52

Simon Pearce

Cape Cod

Bering

Randy Adams

Honora

Constance

Holiday Hours Dec 9th to Dec 23rd Mon- Sat 10-8, Sun 11-5 • Christmas Eve 9-3

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contents TABLE OF

WELCOME Historic Springfield ............... 7

THINGS TO DO

14

8

Craft Fairs .................................. 10 First Nights ................................12 Local Brew ................................ 14 Ski & Snowboard................... 18 Elements Hot Tub Spa .... 24

EVENTS Bright Nights ......................... 26 Events Calendar ................... 29

26

Six Flags Holiday in the Park.............40

ARTS, MUSEUMS, GALLERIES AND ENTERTAINMENT 42 Springfield Thunderbirds ......................... 45

18

Springfield Museums.......48

45

ROAR! Comedy Club......... 50

LOCAL FLAVOR

53

bNapoli Restaurant ........... 54 A Culinary Trek Through Downtown ............................... 56 Frigo’s Restaurant ............... 61

GETTING AROUND 63

54 4

61

Transportation ...................... 63 Bus, Pedestrian and Bike Maps .................................64 Places to Stay ......................... 65

Where Cuisine Meets Community

30 Boltwood Walk • Amherst, MA

Village Commons • South Hadley, MA

458 Russell Street • Hadley, MA

Village Commons • South Hadley, MA

at New England’s State Fair 8 Fort Street • Springfield, MA

The Big E

Northampton, MA West Hartford, CT • Simsbury, CT

322 Newton Street • South Hadley, MA

West Hartford, CT

www.beanrg.com

Village Commons • South Hadley, MA

South Hadley, MA

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EXPLORE WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS STAFF Located at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, MA, Max’s Tavern’s innovative menu features contemporary American cuisine, classic chophouse fare, craft cocktails, and more.

Publisher and CEO George Arwady garwady@repub.com

1000 West Columbus Boulevard, Springfield, MA 01105 413-746-6299 • Maxrestaurantgroup.com/tavern

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Advertising Sales Manager

Catch the Tru spirit. No matter where you travel.

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Design

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Director of Business Development 440 Memorial Drive, Chicopee, MA 413. 331 .5155

C h i c o p e e S p r i n g f i e l d .Tr u b y H i l t o n . c o m

03096932

TRU BY HILTON Chicopee/Springfield

Gretchen Halasi-Kun GHalasi-Kun@repub.com

Photography

Courtesy of The Republican unless otherwise noted

Explore Western Massachusetts is published by The Republican. Our offices are at 1860 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01103. All advertising is subject to the terms and conditions of the Explore Western Massachusetts rate card, and all advertising submitted is subject to the approval of the Publisher. The Publisher reserves the right to cancel an advertising order or reject or edit any advertising copy or images. The Republican Co. shall not be liable for incorrect ad placement. Liability for failure to publish an ad shall not exceed a refund of or credit for the original price of the ad.

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6 | welcome

WELCOME TO

Historic Springfield

BY WAYNE E. PHANEUF The history of Springfield began in 1633 when John Oldham, the first white man to explore the upper reaches of the Connecticut River, reported back to his sponsors in Boston that a rich land, populated by friendly Indians who had furs to trade, existed in the western wilds of Massachusetts Bay Colony. In May of 1636, William Pynchon, of Roxbury, and his band of Puritan followers sailed a ship up the river, bypassing existing trading posts in Connecticut, to settle the area.

The nearby tribe sold the land to Pynchon for 18 hoes, 18 fathoms of wampum, 18 coats, 18 hatchets and 18 knives. Springfield, named for William Pynchon’s home in England, grew as a trading post in the wilderness, and also began a long tradition as a community of “firsts.” In 1645, it would be the first community in Massachusetts to deal with witchcraft. The first book banned in Boston, written by Springfield founder Pynchon, was burned on the town common. John Pynchon replaced his father and began moving Springfield away from the fur trade.

In 1655, he launched the first cattle

drive in America, prodding a herd from Springfield to Boston. His father, William, had been the first commercial meat packer in the new world, selling barrels of salt pork for export in 1641.

On Sept. 11, 1774, a rider named Paul Revere passed through Springfield on his way to Philadelphia with the famous Suffolk Resolves of grievances against King George III. This same rider had brought the news of the Boston Tea Party to Philadelphia in 1773. On the night of April 18, 1775, another rider carried the Lexington alarm to Springfield signaling the start of the American Revolution. By June 1775, a contingent of Continental Army officers met Gen. George Washington in Springfield to escort him to his new command outside Boston. He would return in 1789 as President Washington to inspect the federal arsenal established during the war.

It would transform the community over the next century. Shortly after the Revolution, the Springfield arsenal was the site of Shays’ Rebellion. War hero Daniel Shays, of Pelham, led a group of war veterans who were being thrown into debtors prisons in an attack on the arsenal on Jan. 25, 1787. A few cannon

shots dispersed the rebels, ending the first threat to the new government of the United States .

The federal arsenal became the Springfield Armory, providing guns for every war from the Revolutionary to Vietnam, but it was an inventor who worked there in 1819 who revolutionized manufacturing throughout the world.

Thomas Blanchard invented the Blanchard lathe which permitted the production of interchangeable parts.

It was designed for gunstocks but adapted as the first means of mass manufacturing.

The 1850s signaled a time of prosperity for Springfield and the census of that year was well beyond the 10,000 requirement to become a city. A charter was granted on May 25, 1852, and Caleb Rice, president of the newly formed Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co., was elected the city’s first mayor. This was also the year that Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson formed their gun making partnership under the Smith & Wesson logo.

Newspaper editor Samuel Bowles lead the effort to form a new party,

welcome | 7

which would bear the same name of his newspaper. On Friday, Sept. 21, 1855, the headline in The Republican read: “The Child is Born!” It marked the birth of The Republican Party.

In 1860, Springfield lawyer George Ashmun was elected chairman of the convention that would nominate Abraham Lincoln for president. Within a year on April 12, 1861, the Civil War began. The massive war effort hugely enriched Springfield. The fall of the Harper’s Ferry Arsenal left Springfield as the only U.S. armory in the Union.

Workmen poured into the city by the thousands.

Sports has long been a fixture of Springfield life, from the “Base Ball” players of the 1850s, James Naismith’s invention of basketball in 1891. Some of the most famous college rivalries of the late 1800s were with HarvardYale football and huge regattas on the Connecticut River.

One of the most important Springfield “firsts” unfolded on April 19, 1892, when Charles Duryea tried out his horseless carriage and became the father of the American automobile industry. By 1910, Springfield was home to the Knox, Atlas, and StevensDuryea companies. In 1920, Rolls Royce opened a plant here. It was also home to Indian Motorcycle.

Springfield has built on its past and is building a new future fueled by billions of dollars in new construction with a newly renovated Union Station, where high speed trains will commute to New York, a new MGM resort casino in the heart of downtown, a world–renowned Springfield Museum complex featuring the new Amazing World of Dr. Seuss, one of the city’s most famous natives. The Basketball Hall of Fame, located on the banks of the Connecticut River, recently unveiled an exciting refurbished building.

Across the river in West Springfield is home to the annual Eastern States Exposition, which hosts one of the nation’s premier fairs, The Big E, in September along with other events throughout the year.

Springfield’s past is rich with accomplishments and institutions that make the city unique and provide a lesson in a proud heritage and a fun experience for visitors.

8 | welcome

FAMILY FUN � OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES � SHOPPING & MORE

things to do AUTOBAHN INDOOR SPEEDWAY & EVENTS 367 RUSSELL STREET, #H06 HADLEY, MA 01035

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CHILDREN’S MUSEUM AT HOLYOKE 444 DWIGHT STREET, HOLYOKE

(413) 536-5437 CHILDRENSMUSEUMHOLYOKE.ORG

ELEMENTS HOT TUB & SPA 373 MAIN STREET AMHERST, MA 01002

GATEWAY CITY ARTS

COMMUNITY FOCUSED MUSIC AND ART VENUE 92 RACE ST., HOLYOKE, MA 01040

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444 Dwight Street Holyoke, MA 01040 THE MOUNT

2 PLUNKETT STREET LENOX, MA 01240

(413) 551-5111 EDITHWHARTON.ORG

413-536-7048

childrensmuseumholyoke.org Hours: Tues – Fri 9am – 4pm Sat 10am – 4pm • Sun. 12pm – 4pm MONDAY CLOSED

things to do | 9

craft fairs HOLIDAY

EAT. SHOP. PLAY.

NORMAN ROCKWELL MUSEUM

9 GLENDALE ROAD/ROUTE 183 STOCKBRIDGE, MA 01262

(413) 298-4100 NRM.ORG MAGIC WINGS BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY 281 GREENFIELD ROAD SOUTH DEERFIELD, MA 01373 413-665-2805 MAGICWINGS.COM

And More!

POLISH CENTER OF DISCOVERY AND LEARNING 33 SOUTH STREET, CHICOPEE, MA 01013

Exit 4 off I-90 | Exit 15 off I-91 | 413.536.1441 holyokemall.com

(413) 592-0001 POLISHCENTER.NET

The Western Mass arts and crafts fairs are great places to shop for special keepsakes and gifts to bring home. These events have some of the most unique and interesting hand-made crafts, from jewelry to home décor, created by local artisans. Here are some of the most popular fairs in the area during the Winter months:

2018 Holly Fair

When: Saturday, December 8 at 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Where: Wilbraham United Church, 500 Main Street, Wilbraham, MA 01095 This annual church-sponsored fair features over 75 vendors spread out over three floors, including miniature home displays, specialty food items, and much more. Stick around for the Cookie Walk, where you can fill a box with several different kinds of these baked goodies. Free admission.

Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair When: Saturday, December 8 at 9AM-3PM Where: Eastworks Building, 116 Pleasant St, Easthampton, MA 01027

The Perfect Place to Meet for Business, Pleasure or Après Ski! Delectable Home-Cooked Meals Made from Scratch and A Wide Selection of Craft Beers

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10 | things to do

The 8th Annual Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair will have over 50 vendors and artisans and due to its popularity, will be in the larger event space in the Eastworks building. This fair also serves as a fundraising event for the Distinguished Young Women of Greater Easthampton.

craft fairs HOLIDAY

CONTINUED

December Open Studios and Sale

When: Saturday, December 8 at 10AM – 5PM Where: Cottage Street Studios, 1 Cottage Street, Easthampton, MA 01027 Over 20 talented artists welcome you to visit their studios, showcasing their unique works for sale including paintings, metalworking, and textiles. If you’re looking for a beautiful, oneof-a-kind piece to bring home, stop in and see what they have to offer.

Holiday Market

When: Sunday, December 9 at 11 AM – 5 PM Where: Westfield River Brewing Company, 707 College Highway, Southwick, MA 01077 Shop, drink, eat, and enjoy live music. Who could ask for a

better shopping experience? The Westfield Brewing Company opens its rustic barn doors to artists, vendors and shoppers alike. Pick up some unique holiday presents or a 4-pack of your favorite WRBC beer to-go. Free admission.

Sunday Shopping Soiree

When: Sunday, December 16, 2018 at 12 PM – 6 PM Where: Knights of Columbus Elder Council 69, 460 Granby Rd, Chicopee, Massachusetts 01013 Over 40 vendors and crafters come together at this smaller fair to help with last-minute holiday shopping. They will also be collecting non-perishables to benefit Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen.

Easthampton Winterfest Craft Fair

When: Saturday, February 9, 2019 at 10 AM – 3:30 PM Where: Keystone Mill, 122 Pleasant Street, Easthampton, MA 01027 The family-friendly 6th Annual Easthampton Winterfest Craft Fair is just one of the many places to stop during this yearly Winterfest event. The marketplace, featuring over 80 local businesses and vendors, also serves tasty hot chocolate, cider, and more. Stick around for the famous Chili CookOff, draft horse wagon rides, a Community Fire, and more. Free admission.

Whether you are vacationing, on business, touring colleges or just passing through,

Hampton Inn by Hilton 24 Bay Road Hadley, MA 01035 413-586-4851 www.hadley.hamptoninn.com

Holiday Inn Express 321 Center Street Ludlow, MA 01035 413-589-9300 holidayinnludlow.reservations.com

La Quinta by Wyndham 100 Congress Street Springfield, MA 01104 413-781-0900 6587.LQ.com

Rodeway Inn 237 Russell Street Hadley, MA 01035 413-584-9816 ChoiceHotels.com/MA090

things to do | 11

THE MAGIC OF

First Nights

By GEORGE LENKER Special to The Republican

While Northampton always leads the way with First Night celebrations in Western Massachusetts, its neighbor to the west is joining in the fun this year.

As part of its upcoming 350th anniversary, Westfield will hold a First Night family celebration on New Year’s Eve at Westfield’s Amelia Park Ice Arena & Garden, Amelia Park Children’s Museum, and the Westfield Boys & Girls Club from 4 to 7:30 p.m.

The city’s actual anniversary is on May 19, 2019, but planners wanted to kick off the year with a party that will set up numerous other events leading up to the actual celebration in May. The planning committee’s mission is to make all the events family-friendly and educational

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1212| things to do

about the city’s history.

As far as First Night activities, the evening will kick off with the parade at 4 p.m., with participants lining up at 3:30 p.m. at Amelia Park Ice Arena.

At 4:30 p.m., the activities begin in earnest, with numerous attractions being offered at all the facilities that are participating in the event.

Some of the events include iceskating at Amelia Park Ice Arena, with musicians also on hand, as well as a 350th anniversary photo booth.

The Amelia Park Children’s Museum will feature face-painting, balloon animals in a dance party.

Amelia’s Garden will have the always popular ice sculptures, along with s’mores and hot chocolate, while the Boys & Girls Club will feature bounce houses, a magic show, and a teen rock band.

The evening culminates with a countdown and unique New Year’s ball lighting at 7 p.m. People will count down to the New Year as the ball is lit atop the Boys & Girls Club.

Immediately following this will be fireworks.

The idea of celebrating the New Year five hours early comes from the fact that Westfield was under British rule in 1669, so the town is celebrating New Year’s at the same time Great Britain does.

There will also be a bonfire to warm chilly hands at the end of the event.

For more information, visit westfield350.org/fundraising-events/ firstnight.

Organized by the Northampton Arts Council, First Night has been a tradition in that Hampshire County city since 1985.

Northampton will have its usual slate of citywide events at dozens of venues across the town.

Although the schedule has not yet been finalized, the night will feature music, children’s activities, art, food, fireworks at dusk and the ball raising at Hotel Northampton at midnight.

Celtic folk rockers Enter The Haggis will perform four shows at the Iron Horse Music Hall on Dec. 30-31. It is the 10th year the Torontobased band has welcomed the New Year from Northampton. (Tickets may be obtained www.iheg.com).

For more information, visit www.firstnightnorthampton.org.

Gregory Manchess: Above the Timberline

Gregory Manchess, Above the Timberline, (detail). 2017. © Gregory Manchess.

Frank E. Schoonover (1877-1972) Abe Catherson, Pony Express Rider, (detail). 1916. Private collection.

Frank E. Schoonover: American Visions

sponsored in part by

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things to do | 13

Brew LOCAL

BY GEORGE LENKER Special to The Republican Western Massachusetts has long been a haven for great craft beer, and lately there seems to be a new brewery popping up every few months or so.

While visitors are encouraged to try as many of these places as possible, we thought it would be helpful to offer a list highlights.

The following is not a “best of” list – that sort of thing depends on personal tastes. Rather it’s a sampling of the diversity that the area offers. It is 10 venues divided into two categories.

The first category are places that are open seven days a week, while the second five are breweries with sampling rooms open on specific days.

(Most breweries in the area fall into the latter category, so we just picked five diverse ones.) The list is also contained to what is generally referred to as the Pioneer Valley, which means the brewing stalwarts that lie outside that area, such as Tree House Brewing and the Spencer Trappist Brewery, are not included.

Let’s start with brewpubs and breweries that are open for sales every day: NORTHAMPTON BREWERY – This is the granddaddy (or grandmother,

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since it’s owned by a woman, Janet Egelston Cichy) of the area’s breweries.

It just celebrated its 31st anniversary, making it the oldest continually operating brewpub in New England.

It brews a wide range of styles, from stouts to kolsches to farmhouse ales, but its wheelhouse is the IPA category. And while IPAs are popular at many breweries these days, the Northampton Brewery was ahead of the curve by years. The venue also has a full menu and features an outdoor beer garden in the warmer weather. The venue is also “green” environmentally. Located at 1 Brewster Court in downtown Northampton.

THE PEOPLE’S PINT – The Pint, as its known locally, has also been around for decades, launching back in 1996.

Its Farmer Brown Ale is a flagship brew that perfectly suits that style. The tasty brews here (as well as the food served) use organic, local products whenever possible. It also focuses on environmental concerns by limiting disposable products on its tables.

The venue provides a friendly and rustic vibe. It’s located at 24 Federal St. in Greenfield. Looking for another great choice in Greenfield? Try Lefty’s Brewing at 301 Wells St.

Northampton Brewery

THE HANGAR/AMHERST BREWING – The Amherst version of this venue isn’t that old, but now incorporates one of the older breweries in the area, the Amherst Brewing Co. ABC founder John Korpita moved his operation from Pleasant St. down to the Hangar in 2015 and allowed the management there to take over the operation of the business. Korpita retired this past summer, but his vision lives on in the wide palette of palate-pleasing brews offered at the Hangar (where they are also brewed. The Hangar is at 10 University Drive in Amherst.

BREW PRACTITIONERS – This venue just celebrated its third birthday and has become a vibrant hub for beer aficionados and music lovers in the Florence section of Northampton.

Brew Practitioners shuns the trend of creating cutesy names for its beers and simply uses color coding. Black is its Irish stout, Yellow is its IPA and Red is a red ale. (They have several more beers, so not to worry if none of the ones named are what you’re looking for.) Brew Practitioners philosophy is to make enjoying beer uncomplicated, and to make balanced beers that everyone can enjoy. The brewery is at 36 Main St.

NEW CITY BREWERY – The newest of the trio of Easthampton breweries to open over the past several years, New City is the one that is open seven days a week. It features a wide array of delicious brews at its cozy bar and somewhat larger sitting area. In warmer weather, it features a small patio tha’s a great place to enjoy a brew. Located at 180 Pleasant St. And while you’re in Easthampton, you can also check out Abandoned Building (a few doors down from New City) and Fort Hill Brewery (30 Fort Hill Road) – both great venues open at more limited times.

As for a sampling of others, here are another five with more limited hours: BERKSHIRE BREWING CO. – This is the second-oldest local brewery after the Northampton Brewery. Berkshire is known for its commitment to balanced beers. The South Deerfield brewery has usually and wisely followed its own lights and hasn’t gotten caught up in passing flavorof-the month trends. Its Coffeehouse Porter is a favorite among many fans of that style. The brewery is located at 12 Railroad St. Also in South Deerfield is Hitchcock Brewing, 129 Christian Lane.

ELEMENT BREWING – If you’re looking for something truly off the beaten path – both aesthetically and geographically – Element will be where you want to be. Located at 16 Bridge St. in Miller’s Falls, Element has pushed the boundaries of brewing since day one, offering up such unique delights as SPF (Summer Pilsner Fusion) which blends aspects of an oatmeal stout with the color of a Pilsner, and Plasma, a gluten- free which is brewed with wild rice, malted millet and buckwheat. While these are boundary-pushing beers, they are drinkable and satisfying overall.

BUILDING 8 – This brewery built its solid reputation on its flagship beer, boldly named The IPA. It then built on that base with The Session and The Double, all IPAs whose names are self-explanatory. More recently, the brewery has expanded its repertoire and its naming vision with Ladybug (a hoppy red ale), a lager called The Lber (pronounced “pounder”), Swift (a wheat beer) and Peach Kettle Sour.

The convivial tasting room is located at 320 Riverside Drive in the Florence

section of Northampton.

WHITE LION – Although White Lion doesn’t have a permanent Springfieldbased facility yet where you can sample its beers (it contract brews in Eastern Massachusetts), the company holds plenty of events throughout the year and is now a fixture at MGM Springfield. (Ludlow’s excellent Iron Duke Brewing is also featured at the resort.) Owner Ray Berry and head brewer Mike Yates have teamed up to create a one-two punch of tasty beer and creative thematic marketing.

Berry is in the process of finding a permanent home for the brewery in Springfield, making it the city’s first true craft beer.

BRICK & FEATHER – This brewery, situated in the Turners Falls section of Montague, has been hitting it out of the park since it opened in 2015. In a tight, crowded market of IPAs, Brick & Feather has managed to carve out a space all its own, which is no small feat. Of course, the brewery also has excelled across the board, with beers such as Sauron’s Nightlight, a tasty porter and Ode to the Afternoon, a light, refreshing cream ale. The brewery is located at 78 11th St. OTHER BREWERIES, all fine as well and not to be missed are Westfield River Brewing and Tin Bridge Brewing, both in Westfield, Scantic River Brewery in Hampden, Vanished Valley Brewing in Ludlow, Stoneman Brewing in Colrain, Big Elm brewing in Sheffield, Drunken Rabbit Brewing in South Hadley.

things to do feature | 15

AMHERST BREWING COMPANY amherstbrewing.com 10 University Drive, Amherst 413.253.4400 BLDG8 BREWING 320 Riverside Dr, Northampton 413. 570.4104 BREW PRACTITIONERS brewpractitioners.com 36 Main St, Florence 413.584.2444 DRUNKEN RABBIT www.rabbit.beer 749A New Ludlow Rd, South Hadley 413.728.2739 FORT HILL BREWERY forthillbrewery.com 30 Fort Hill Rd, Easthampton 413.203.5754 NEW CITY BREWERY newcitybrewery.com 180 Pleasant St, Easthampton 413.529.2000

WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS

Craft Brewers BERKSHIRE COUNTY BARRINGTON BREWERY barringtonbrewery.net 420 Stockbridge Road, Suite 7, Great Barrington 413.528.8282 BIG ELM BREWING bigelmbrewery.com 65 Silver Street, Sheffield 413.229.2348 WANDERING STAR BREWING COMPANY wanderingstarbrewing.com 11 Gifford Street, Pittsfield 413.717.7041

FRANKLIN COUNTY BERKSHIRE BREWING COMPANY berkshirebrewingcompany.com 12 Railroad Street, South Deerfield 413.665.6600 BRICK & FEATHER BREWERY brickandfeatherbrewery.com 78 11th St, Turners Falls 413. 863.2574

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ELEMENT BREWING COMPANY elementbeer.com 30 Bridge Street, Millers Falls 413.835.6340 HITCHCOCK BREWING COMPANY hitchcockbrewing.com 129 Christian Ln, Whately 413.695.2400 HONEST WEIGHT ARTISAN BEER honestweightbeer.com 131 W Main St #104, Orange 413.313.4412 LEFTY’S BREWING COMPANY leftysbrew.com 301 Wells Street, Greenfield 413.475.3449 PEOPLE’S PINT (Franklin County Brewing Co) thepeoplespint.com 24 Federal Street, Greenfield 413.773.0333

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY ABANDONED BUILDING BREWERY abandonedbuildingbrewery.com 142 Pleasant St, Easthampton 413.282.7062

NORTHAMPTON BREWERY northamptonbrewery.com 11 Brewster Court, Northampton 413.584.9903 OPA OPA BREWING fb.com/opaopabrewing 4 Main Street, Williamsburg 413.527.0808

HAMPDEN COUNTY IRON DUKE BREWING irondukebrewing.com 100 State St #122, Ludlow 413.624.6258 TIN BRIDGE BREWING CO. tinbridgebrewing.com 487 E Main St, Westfield 413.642.6418 VANISHED VALLEY vanishedvalley.com 782 Center St, Ludlow WESTFIELD RIVER BREWING COMPANY westfieldriverbrewing.com 79 Mainline Drive, Westfield 417.374.8452

WORCESTER COUNTY TREE HOUSE BREWING COMPANY treehousebrew.com 129 Sturbridge Road, Charlton 413.523.2367

Located in the city where it was invented, this 48,000 square foot basketball museum contains 3 levels of exhibits showing the history and heroes of the game, while giving visitors the opportunity to participate in skills contests.

Join us at the Basketball Hall of Fame where the game never ends!

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame 1000 Hall of Fame Avenue SpringďŹ eld, MA, 01105 hoophall.com 1-877-4Hoopla Instagram: hoophall

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Ski and Snowboard

BY JEANETTE DEFORGE jdeforge@repub.com Massachusetts ski areas sometimes get a short shrift by skiers and snowboarders who often bypass them while heading north to larger resorts, but the areas in the Berkshires and Hilltowns can offer plenty of fun without the long drive.

Want to get some air? Jiminy Peak has 3 terrain parks including one for beginners. Looking for a challenge?

Catamount has a double black diamond trail. Want to reach the top fast? Berkshire East has several highspeed detachable chairs. Want to ski at night? When the sun goes down lights go up at several areas including Otis Ridge and Blandford. Concerned about snow? Most ski areas make snow on most, if not all, trails.

What the Massachusetts mountains are frequently missing are the big crowds and $100 lift tickets seen at some of the better-known and bigger mountains in the north.

Some of the biggest news this year are the sales of some of the smaller and struggling mountains to families who run sister areas in Massachusetts – in keeping with the national trend of companies such as Vail Resorts, Alterra and Peaks Resorts purchasing multiple mountains across the country in the past few years.

One of the biggest acquisitions came last spring when the Schaefer family, which owns the constantlyexpanding Berkshire East, purchased Catamount, which straddles the Massachusetts and New York border in the Berkshires.

The Edwards and Gilbert families will continue to work at Catamount with most of the existing staff, but the

18 | things to do feature

move will allow Catamount to upgrade and expand.

Already renovations have been made to the lodge, snowmaking and summer activities expanded.

At the same time Ski Butternut owner Jeffrey Murdock formed Blandford Properties LLC. and purchased Blandford Ski Area from the nonprofit Springfield Ski Club. He also bought Otis Ridge last fall after operating the struggling ski area the previous season.

The new owners are developing reciprocal deals, for example this season Blandford pass holders will receive 50 percent off tickets to Butternut and a Ski Butternut pass will grant holders 50 percent off Blandford and Otis Ridge tickets as well as half-off deals at Catamount for most days.

The Fairbank family, which owns Jiminy Peak, also manages Bromley, in Vermont, and Cranmore, in New Hampshire so those areas also have reciprocal pass deals.

Here are some of the ski areas and amenities they offer within a 90-minute drive from downtown Springfield:

BLANDFORD SKI AREA

For more than 80 years this ski area was owned by the Springfield Ski Club and operated by pass holders as a non-profit. But the club had difficulty keeping up with the costs of maintenance and upgrading equipment and sold the area in 2017.

While Ski Butternut owners had

planned to re-open it last season, problems with lifts and snowmaking left it closed for the season. A yearlong renovation program will allow the area to open with better snowmaking and improved lifts.

Blandford is the closest area to Springfield with a drive of about 45 minutes. The ski area is one of the smaller ones with 465 vertical foot drop and five lifts but it is a very family-friendly place with pass holders and other regulars coming for the day, plugging in crock pots in the lodge and hanging around long after lifts close.

Blandford is open for day and night skiing Monday, Wednesday, Friday and

Saturday and from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday.

It is a good spot to learn to ski and ride because it offers a wide variety of lessons including a special package for 3-year-olds called “ski with me because I’m 3,” and a new five-week women’s clinic held every Friday morning. Information about ticket rates and other programs can be found on skiblandford.com.

BERKSHIRE EAST

The addition of two new trails last year has made this area in Charlemont the largest ski area by acreage in the state.

It is also one of the closest since it is an hour’s drive from Springfield.

The Shaefer family which owns the area has been upgrading a lot over the last few years replacing older lifts, expanding and renovating the lodge.

They have also added a wind turbine and solar panels which generate enough electricity to operate the ski area.

Berkshire East has a vertical drop of 1,180 feet and has four chairlifts, including two quad lifts, and a carpet lift that serves its beginner area. It has at least 47 trails with 30 percent for beginners, 35 percent for intermediates and 35 percent for experts. There are also several woods trails.

It also offers night skiing and riding, tubing for non-skiers, a race program and a wide variety of lesson packages for athletes of all ages and abilities.

More information can be found at berkshireeast.com.

BOUSQUET

This area is located right in Pittsfield and is about a 50-minute drive from Springfield. The mountain has a vertical drop of 750 feet and has 23 trails, three chairlifts and three surface lifts, two of which are carpet-style lifts designed for beginners.

Bousquet owner Sherry Roberts has put the area up for sale but has said she will operate it until the right buyer has been found. The area has season passes on sale for the upcoming season on sale now.

Bousquet offers skiing and riding until 9 p.m. every night except Sunday.

It is open during the day as well on Thursday through Sunday. Its night tickets are just $20 and Thursday nights that drops to $10 to ski from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. For those who do not ski or snowboard, a 450-foot tubing hill is open Thursday through Sunday and two-hour tickets are available.

Bousquet also offers a wide variety of lessons including a six-week

Left photo from Bousquet Mountain in Pittsfield, MA. taken by Marki Blackwell.

Above photo taken at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont, MA. Courtesy of William Landon Farrell / Farrell Video Productions.

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after-school program that gives children one hour of lessons and another hour of unsupervised skiing or riding. It also has a teeny tots program for 4- and 5-year-olds.

SKI BUTTERNUT

This area in Great Barrington is about an hour and 20 minutes from Springfield. It has a vertical drop of about 1.120 feet and offers 22 trails and two terrain parks. It has 11 lifts including three quad chairs and five carpets.

The area operates daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., but on weekends it opens at 8:15 a.m. Along with its daily tickets, it also sells a four-hour ticket on weekdays. Butternut also has a special carpet lift dedicated to its eight-lane tubing park that operates on Friday nights and weekends.

Butternut has a race program for children and teenagers, including one for 6- to 10-year-olds who learn the fundamentals of racing before competing.

It also has a variety of lessons including a weekly women’s clinic that runs on Wednesday mornings. More information can be found at skibutternut.com.

CATAMOUNT Photo above and at right taken at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont, MA. Courtesy of William Landon Farrell / Farrell Video Productions.

This area that is half in Egremont and half in New York can be reached in about an hour 15 minutes via the Massachusetts Turnpike. For more advance skiers and

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riders it is likely worth the drive.

The area has a 1,000-vertical drop and its double diamond trail Catapult is repeatedly rated the steepest trail in the Berkshires.

It also keeps groomers off one of its trails giving people a half-mile of moguls to ski when conditions allow.

Catamount has 36 trails and 7 lifts, but its new owners are moving an old triple chair from Berkshire East, refurbishing it and installing it to reduce lift lines. It is expected to be operating on opening day.

The base lodge is also being refurbished and a new lodge is now under construction but will not be ready until next season.

Owners are also upgrading snowmaking so skiers and riders should see better snow conditions this year.

Catamount is open daily 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and at night from 3 to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays and 3 to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturdays. Information about lessons and other programs is available on catamountski.com.

JIMINY PEAK

This ski area in Hancock is about a 90-minute drive from Springfield and offers lodging that is a short walk from the slopes for those who want to stay a few days and don’t want to drive.

Jiminy has a comparable size to Berkshire East and Catamount with a drop

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of 1,150 vertical feet, 45 trails and nine lifts. There is night skiing and Jiminy operates daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

On weekends it opens a half-hour earlier.

It also offers the most extensive terrain parks in the Berkshires.

Jiminy Peak offers a wide variety of lessons, programs and deals that can be found on its website jiminypeak. com

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This small ski area is just up the road on Route 23 from the Blandford Ski area and is about an hour’s drive from Springfield.

Otis has a vertical drop of about 400 feet and has one double chair and three surface lifts. One of its unique features is the owners also operate the Grouse House, a full-service restaurant at the base of the lift for apres ski drinks and dinner.

The area operates from Wednesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., with night skiing beginning at 4 p.m. It has a variety of lesson packages, including a unique homeschooling program that runs on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. for six consecutive weeks. More information can be found on the website otisridge.com.

Why Quality Inn? Quality Inn hotels offer more than the typical affordable hotel: you get more for your money with our “Value Qs.” From premium bedding and a refreshing shower to hot breakfast and friendly service, it all adds up to real value for you. Affordable, enjoyable and great for business travel, a weekend getaway, or a vacation—that’s the Quality Inn hotel brand.

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Q BED: Fresh linens, fluffy pillows and plush blankets Q BREAKFAST: Hot, fresh and healthy Q SHOWER: Bright, roomy showers with multi-setting showerheads Q SERVICE: Professional, responsive and friendly Above photo from Bousquet Mountain in Pittsfield, MA. taken by Marki Blackwell.

Left photo taken at Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont, MA. Courtesy of William Landon Farrell / Farrell Video Productions.

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Elements

HOT TUB SPA

BY ALLISON LITERA Special to The Republican It’s a cold evening in New England and you’re looking to warm up, but how? Elements Hot Tub Spa in Amherst, diagonally across the street from Emily Dickinson’s house on Main Street, adds a unique twist to a winter’s night out…whether you’re with your sweetie, with a group of friends, or even on your own.

The southwestern-themed space transports guests to a cozy, welcoming environment that feels miles away from the chilly New England air.

Offering several hot tubs and a wealth of spa treatments, you’re sure to find something at Elements to warm up your body, spirit, and mind.

Owners/founders Jeff and Diana Krauth started the award-winning business in 2006 and come from a long history of health, wellness, and personal development. Like the business name suggests, Elements’ five hot tub rooms are named and themed after the elements: water, fire, earth, air, and the “fifth element”, spirit.

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“Each room is a little different but very simply decorated to fit the southwestern theme,” says Diana.

The Water Room is indoors and includes one of their larger tubs and Aromatherapy Steam.

“Due to its size, the Water Room is excellent for larger parties, a group of friends, or even bachelor and bachelorette gatherings,” says Diana.

“The tub holds about eight people.”

The indoor Fire and Spirit Rooms include infrared saunas. And the Earth and Air rooms, which are the two outdoor tubs, are situated within quaint garden spaces. All tub rooms include a shower. Soap, shampoo, and towels are provided in each room as well.

The state-of-the-art tubs use small amounts of chlorine all day long and are tested for proper levels before and after each use. Each tub consists of dozens of jets to ensure you get a relaxing soak. A 30-minute hot tub session for two is only $50, and a 60-minute soak for two is $70. The rooms are completely private, and bathing suits are optional.

The hot tubs are a fun and memorable experience for families as well.

“Two of our hot tubs are great for children, since they have bench seating that is a little shallower,” says Diana. “The child-friendly rooms are the Spirit Room and the Earth Room.”

Step it up a notch from a regular soak in one of their hot tubs and consider turning your visit into a “mini retreat”. Add a massage or another body treatment like a foot rub or facial on to your hot tub experience, whether with or without a friend or significant other.

“People are surprised by how much we offer,” adds Diana. “Once you’ve experienced our services, you’ll be hooked and want to make self-care a part of your daily routine. Taking the time to relax and reflect on yourself and how you feel is a really big part of self-care.”

Diana and Jeff emphasize how important the gift of touch is, too.

“Therapeutic touch is so important,” Diana says. “I have several clients who may be widowed or who may not get to hug their loved ones every day, but once they receive a massage, their whole day is changed.”

Couples massages don’t have to be for romantic partners, either.

“People who take advantage of our ‘couples’ packages’ may be mother and daughter or two best friends,”

LIKE THE BUSINESS NAME SUGGESTS, ELEMENTS’ FIVE HOT TUB ROOMS ARE NAMED AND THEMED AFTER THE ELEMENTS: WATER, FIRE, EARTH, AIR, AND THE “FIFTH ELEMENT”, SPIRIT.

adds Jeff. “It’s a great time out if you’re looking to do something other than grab drinks or walk around town.”

Elements Hot Tub Spa also offers Reiki, craniosacral therapy, body wraps, facials, body scrubs, and more by a talented team of therapists and specialists. Come find your Zen and escape from the distractions of the city!

Elements Hot Tub Spa is located at 373 Main Street in Amherst, Massachusetts and can be reached at (413) 256-8827.

To check out pricing and the variety of services offered, visit their website at elementshottubspa.com.

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Bright Nights at Forest Park

KEITH O’CONNOR Special to The Republican

A visit to Bright Nights at Forest Park – the Northeast’s premier holiday lighting experience open now through Jan. 1 – is guaranteed to dazzle your senses and put the “jingle” into your evening.

Just one year shy of celebrating its 25th anniversary – you might want to come back next year for the big celebration – Bright Nights at Forest Park is a nearly three-mile drive in the comforts of your car through Springfield’s magical forest decked out with more than 650,000 colorful lights.

Springfield, known around the country every holiday season as the “City of Bright Nights,” owes its special moniker to the annual light fest, which has been named multiple times as one of the Top 100 Attractions in North America by the American Bus Association. It has also been featured in the New York Times and magazines that include Motorhome, Colonial Homes, Yankee and U.S. Airways.

Bright Nights has also been listed on People.com as “One of the Top Ten Holiday Happenings in America” and

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on Yahoo.com.

“More and more people started setting their GPS for Springfield after seeing the feature on the front page of the travel section of Yahoo.com,” said Amy J. Barron-Burke, vice president, Spirit of Springfield, What makes Bright Nights so special that 3.8 million visitors from around the world have traveled through the park to see them? These aren’t just any ordinary lighting displays that you’ll find in other parks around the country, they were created specifically for Springfield.

It all started with a brochure that came across the desk of Springfield’s Executive Director of Parks, Buildings and Recreation Management, Patrick J. Sullivan, from a vendor who sold products made by Carpenter Decorating Company, a North Carolina firm in the business of designing and manufacturing holiday lighting displays.

“The brochure caught my eye and I knew there was only one person I could talk with about the reality of undertaking such an ambitious project for Forest Park,” said Sullivan.

That person was longtime friend

and colleague Judith A. Matt, president of the Spirit of Springfield, who along with her staff put on many other grand community celebrations for Springfield, including the World’s Largest Pancake Breakfast, Star Spangled Springfield and Parade of the Big Balloons.

They went right to the source and called Carpenter Decorating directly, speaking with John Catenaci, the company’s design director.

“When John heard what we had in mind – to blend city history, holiday traditions and the park’s natural beauty into our design, he packed his bags for Springfield. The following week he was driving through Forest Park and realized he had finally found the perfect canvas for his lighting displays thanks to the park’s unique topography and a roadway of hills and twists which conveniently blocked the view of one display from the next,” said Matt.

As you drive through the gates of Forest Park, giant glowing red flowers greet visitors in the Poinsettia Fantasy display, which begins your magical journey through Springfield’s landmark park outfitted with over

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400 pieces that make up the expansive displays. It all ends as you depart the gates with a reproduction of Springfield’s municipal buildings with Santa and his sleigh of reindeers flying overhead called Happy Holidays, Springfield.

Other sights along the way include American Flag, Kwanzaa, Nativity, Winter Garden, Seuss Land, Letters to Santa, Garden of Peace, Jurassic World, Victorian Village, Everett Barney Mansion, Leaping Frog, Winter Woods, North Pole Village, Toy Land, and Giant Poinsettia Candles.

The Garden of Peace – a serene tableaux of flowers blooming with love, peace, faith, hope and joy – was not in the original line-up back in 1995. It was added in 2001 and dedicated to the lives lost on September 11, 2001.

Jurassic World, the largest expansion ever to Bright Nights, was added in 2005 and features a family of animated dinosaurs surrounded by trees and an erupting volcano.

“Jurassic World is the only display not manufactured

by Carpenter Decorating. Another park was selling the installation and we knew we had to have it for the kids, who are so much into dinosaurs today,” said Matt.

The most recent addition – Winter Garden – was installed just in time for Bright Night’s 15th anniversary celebration in 2009. It features frosty urns, icy fountains and trees, a blizzard of snowflakes, and a carousel – all shining brightly in blue and white lights for an icy winter feel.

Driving through Bright Nights is also a history lesson for those who know Springfield and for visitors

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who don’t. The giant Cat in the Hat and other Seussian creations in Seuss Land are a reminder that Theodor Geisel, better known to his readers as Dr. Seuss, once lived in Springfield.

Everett Barney, who donated Forest Park to Springfield, and who was the inventor of the modern day ice skate, is remembered with people skating in the Victorian Village display wearing clamp-on ice skates that he designed.

There is also the dramatically lit and colorful representation of the Barney Mansion, which some visitors have actually thought was a real house dressed up with lights. Then, there is Toy Land, a nod to the popular game company, Milton Bradley, which made its home in neighboring East Longmeadow for many years before being sold to Hasbro. The display features toy pieces from such popular games as Candy Land, The Game of Life, and Monopoly.

If you are traveling with the kids, and even if you’re not, a stop at Santa’s Magical Forest is a must. Located on

the left just after Seuss Land, there are kiddie rides for a nominal fee like the Winter Carousel and Santa Train, and a food stand to fill your tummy and warm you up with hot chocolate and other treats such as cookies, brownies, kettle corn, fried dough, French fries and more. Santa’s Magical Forest is also home to the Bright Nights Gift Shop filled with Bright Nights mementoes and gifts ranging from t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats and all kinds of trinkets to holiday gift items and more. And, kids can meet and greet “the man in the red suit” in Santa’s Cottage, where they can have a professional photograph taken with the jolly ol’ elf.

Whether you are alone, with family, or pack the car with friends you have met during your visit, the cost to enjoy some holiday cheer is $18 per car from Monday through Thursday or $21 per car Friday through Sunday and holidays. If you want to travel through Springfield’s enchanted forest in elegant style and decide to call a

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If you’re travelling with your sweetie, then you might want to consider a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through Bright Nights. The 30-minute ride, which travels through the upper portion of the park only, trots off Thursdays, Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13 and 20, and Fridays, Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14 and 21. Carriage rides, which hold up to four people, are $100 whether for one person or four. So, find another couple if you want to split the cost.

If you prefer to rough it, there’s also a horse-drawn wagon ride running Dec. 7, 8 and 9 which holds 20 people.

There are benches and blankets if there is a chill in the air, but it’s not a hayride. Rides are $10 and $8 for children under 12.

Wagon and carriage rides depart every 30 minutes. To make a reservation for the carriage or to reserve the entire wagon for $125, contact the Spirit of Springfield weekdays at (413) 733-3800 or email staff@spiritofspringfield.org.

Bright Nights, which begins to shine every year on the day before Thanksgiving, is open on all holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. It is closed, however, on Nov. 26 and 27 for the Bright Night’s Road Race. For those traveling through the holiday light fest on New Year’s Eve, there are free noisemakers or a hat for children, and free amusement rides from 5 to 8 p.m.

Hours are Sunday through Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. and Friday, Saturday and holidays from 5-11 p.m., with the exception of New Year’s Day from 5-9 p.m.

Not sure how to get to Forest Park?

Set your GPS to 300 Sumner Avenue, Springfield, MA 01108.

Depending on the night you decide to visit Bright Nights, you could find yourself in traffic waiting to enter the popular wintertime attraction. Before heading to the park, you can check the Bright Nights Cam to see how traffic is flowing, and the fun happening in Santa’s Magical Forest by going to brightnights.org/live-webcam.

To further enhance the Bright Nights experience, and to help pass the time while waiting in line, especially if there are kids in the car, Bright Nights has its own radio station called WELF - Elf Radio on 101.5 FM. The show, featuring a wide range of music from holiday classics to modern-day tunes, is hosted by none other than everyone’s favorite DJ, Santa Claus.

For more information, visit brightnights.org.

DECEMBER 2018 Bright Nights at Forest Park, 25th Season November 21, 2018 - January 1, 2019 5:00- 11:00 pm Forest Park, 300 Sumner Avenue Springfield, MA 01108

Dates and Times November 21, 2018 – January 1, 2019 Closed November 26 and 27 Sunday through Thursday – 5PM to 9PM Friday, Saturday and Holidays* – 5PM to 11PM New Year’s Day - 5PM to 9PM Buses with Reservations Priority – 5PM to 6PM.

Springfield Museums, Annual Gingerbread Competition November 23 - December 31 Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards Street Springfield, MA 01103

The Springfield Science Museum’s annual gingerbread exhibit has become one of the region’s best-loved traditions. Experience the annual gingerbread competition and exhibit that meshes two of our favorite things—baking and creativity! The aweinspiring entries celebrate Pop! Culture. The gingerbread creations are set amongst a display of festive holiday trees. Visitors have an opportunity to vote for their favorite.

18th Annual Festival of Trees

November 23 - December 9 MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

Kicking off immediately following the Parade of Big Balloons outside on Main Street, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield will be opening the Festival of Trees and offering free admission during the Holiday Open House from 11am – 2pm.

Connecticut Trolley Museum, Winterfest and “The Tunnel of Lights”

November 23 - December 30 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Connecticut Trolley Museum, 58 North Rd. East Windsor, CT 06088

Join hundreds of others and start a family tradition of coming for a trolley ride during the holiday season. Whether you ride a closed car or brave the cold to ride the open “electric sleigh”, we promise you a good time and one that you’ll remember for years. Join your motormen in singing traditional Christmas carols as the trolley makes its way through the “Tunnel of Lights”.

Winterlights at Naumkeag

November 23 thru December 30 Thursday – Sunday only, 5-8p.m.

5 Prospect Hill Rd. Stockbridge, MA

Tickets available for purchase at thetrustees. org/winterlights

Norman Rockwell Museum, Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas November 30 - December 2 Norman Rockwell Museum, 9 Route 183 (Glendale Ave) Stockbridge, MA 01262

wreaths and festive lights. Sponsored by the Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce, the holiday celebration offers a full range of activities, with highlights including holiday readings, house tours, caroling, and a holiday concert. Capping off the weekend is a recreation on Sunday of the scene depicted in Main Street at Christmas.

American International College Theater Arts, “Noises Off” November 30 - December 2 American International College, 1000 State Street Springfield, MA 01109

The Theater Department at American International College will present the comedy farce “Noises Off” on Friday, November 30, and Saturday, December 1, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 2, at 2 p.m. Called “the funniest farce ever written,” Noises Off presents a manic menagerie of itinerant actors rehearsing a flop called Nothing’s On. Doors slamming, on and offstage intrigue, and an errant herring all figure in the plot of this hilarious and classically comic play.

Historic Deerfield “December in Deerfield” December 1 - December 16 Historic Deerfield, 84B Old Main Street Deerfield, MA 01342

Amid the picturesque backdrop of this quintessential New England village, Historic Deerfield’s “December in Deerfield” is a yearly celebration of the holiday season that provides programs and events the whole family can enjoy.

Yankee Candle Village Santa’s Parade

December 1 @ 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Yankee Candle Village, 25 Greenfield Road South Deerfield, MA 01373

Get excited for the season with a parade of Santa and his friends!

Storrowton Village Yuletide at Storrowton

December 1 @ 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Storrowton Village at ESE, 1305 Memorial Avenue West Springfield, MA 01089

Storrowton’s annual winter holiday festival features our 18th and 19th century buildings are seasonally decorated both inside and out.

The Village is bursting with holiday delights, such as musical performances, storytelling, old-fashioned craft demonstrations, blacksmithing and hearth cooking. Find unique holiday gifts, collectibles and decorations in our Christmas shop. Get hot chocolate and a snack in the Sweet Shoppe.

Old Sturbridge Village, Christmas by Candlelight

December 1 @ 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm Old Sturbridge Village, 1 Old Sturbridge Village Road Sturbridge, MA 01566

The cherished tradition of holiday festivities at Old Sturbridge Village returns once again this weekends in December! Enjoy an evening filled with New England holiday traditions, live music performances, storytelling, sleigh rides, festive foods, visits with Santa, a roaring bonfire, a nightly tree lighting ceremony, a gingerbread house contest, and strolls around the decorated Village Common. Christmas by Candlelight runs Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings November 30 – December 23, with a bonus night on Thursday, December 20!

The Starting Gate at GreatHorse, Breakfast with Santa December 2 @ 9:00 am - 11:00 am The Starting Gate at GreatHorse, 128 Wilbraham Road Hampden, MA 01036

Mark your calendars and make your reservations - Sunday, December 2nd | 9:00am Delicious holiday breakfast, carolers, cookie decorating, crafts, and pictures with Santa! Christmas wish lists welcome. $38. For more information about these events, call 413-566-5158 or Events@TheStartingGate.com.

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The town of Stockbridge, made famous by Norman Rockwell’s painting of the village during the holidays, becomes a magical New England setting decorated with holiday

calendar EVENTS

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Regency Inn and Suites Regency Inn & Suites is located in a very peaceful and private area, while right across the bridge from MGM Casino & Downtown Springfield; and very close to major highways and state routes.

We are most conveniently located right across the street from The BIG “E” (the huge Eastern States Exposition Center at Route 147 14 - Memorial Avenue).

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Our Hotel blends convenience and affordability in the style of a contemporary New England Inn. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, you will find our location, product and service to be the best in the Pioneer Valley. Our staff is friendly, helpful and eager to serve.

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Regency Inn and Suites This is the closest hotel to the Six Flags of New England in Agawam, while being just across the bridge from the MGM Casino, 2 miles from the Basketball Hall of Fame and the MassMutual Sports & Entertainment arena. It helps our guests to stay with us being the most convenient location for the area colleges, attractions, hospitals, offices and industrial area with very easy access.

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Springfield Thunderbirds AHL Game Night

Delaney House, Naughty or Nice

December 2 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

SUN, DEC 2, 3:05PM VS BRIDGEPORT SOUND TIGERS Sunday Funday Pack: Four tickets, four hot dogs, four small popcorns, four small sodas – starting from $60 / Paw Patrol Appearance / Postgame skate on the MassMutual Center ice for fans in attendance* (fans must bring their own skates) BUY TICKETS The Thunderbirds and the Springfield Parking Authority have, for a third straight year, collaborated to offer FREE PARKING exclusively at the Civic Center Garage on a first-come, first-served basis on game nights throughout the season.

December 2 @ 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road (Route 5) Holyoke, MA 01040

Join us at the Delaney House for a fourcourse Wine Pairing Dinner followed by DJ & Dancing! You may catch a glimpse of our very own Mick the Elf. You’ll have to come to find out! We have a Special Elf on the Shelf Contest. Bring in your most creative Elf on the Shelf set up and have a chance to win the Grand Prize!

Storrowton Village Yuletide Open House Tours

December 4 @ 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Storrowton Village at ESE, 1305 Memorial Avenue West Springfield, MA 01089

Take a guided tour through Storrowton’s seasonally decorated 18th and 19th century buildings. Find unique holiday gifts, collectibles and decorations in our Christmas shop. Reservations required for groups of 10 or more. All ages. Tour tickets are $7 each and under 6 free.

Yankee Candle Village Girl’s Night Out

December 5 @ 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Yankee Candle Village 25 Greenfield Road South Deerfield, MA 01373

Ladies, it’s time to SHOP! Enjoy a night out of pampering, with discounts just for you!

The Log Cabin Holiday Comedy Night

December 5 @ 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm The Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road Holyoke, MA 01040

Share some Laughs with co-workers, friends and family this holiday season by joining us at the Log Cabin for our Comedy Night Holiday Gathering! Featuring Comedians Frank Santorelli, Rafi Gonzalez, and Shaughn Howard. Wednesday, December 5, 6pm 10pm. $40 per person Buffet Dinner With Comedy Show To Follow Frank Santorelli - “Georgie The Bartender” in the Sopranos Starred in Meet The Parents, Crooked Lines and No Reservations Over the holidays, it’s time to raise a glass and have some fun.

030 9 864 0

The Hills l 60 N Westfield St, Feeding Hills, MA 01030 (413) 363-9018

Experience the comfort and charm of New England...

Storrowton Village, Yuletide Lantern Light Evening December 5 @ 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Storrowton Village at ESE, 1305 Memorial Avenue West Springfield, MA 01089

Experience the magic of an old-fashioned winter evening on a self-guided tour of Storrowton’s cozy homes and buildings, decorated for the season and illuminated by lanterns and candlelight. Old-fashioned craft demonstrations include blacksmithing and hearthside cooking. Find unique holiday gifts, collectibles and decorations in our Christmas shop. This event is all $8 online (through 12/4) and $10 at event. 2 and under free.

Springfield Museums Culture & Cocktails

December 6 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm |Recurring Event (See all) Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards Street Springfield, MA 01103

First Thursdays, bi-monthly, 5-8 pm includes hor d’oeuvres, entertainment, and cash bar.

10.4.18 Oktoberfest: The Art of the Brew (8th annual) Annual beer tasting and homebrew competition. Be among the first to taste a new Springfield Museums-White Lion collaboration, plus live music by The Happy Five Oompah Band. All tasting included while supplies last. 12.13.18: Holiday Pop! Celebrate the opening of the new exhibit Pop!

CityStage, Moondance

December 7 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm CityStage, 150 Bridge Street Springfield, MA 01103

Moondance: The Ultimate Van Morrison Tribute Concert - One of our sold out shows for the past two seasons, Moondance returns to CityStage by popular demand. This is the ultimate Van Morrison Tribute Concert and features classic tunes like “Brown Eyed Girl”, “Moondance”, “Domino”, “It Stoned Me”, and “Into The Mystic” – just to name a few. Packed with one Van Morrison classic after the next, be sure to get your tickets before they’re gone!

Tickets: $35 & $30

The Springfield Armory Holiday Concert

December 8 @ 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm The Springfield Armory National Historic Site, One Armory Square, Suite 2, Springfield, MA 01105

Join us for an afternoon holiday concert performed by West Mass Brass Band. Listen to holiday classics and sing along to your favorite songs. Concert will take place inside the museum. Light refreshments will be available at intermission.

Norman Rockwell Museum Art Talk Series

December 8 @ 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm Norman Rockwell Museum, 9 Route 183 (Glendale Ave) Stockbridge, MA 01262

HOLIDAY INN SPRINGFIELD – ENFIELD 1 Bright Meadow Blvd., Enfield, CT 06082 860-741-2211 holidayinnspringfield.com

32 | events calendar

Saturday, December 8: An Evening with Illustrator Dan Howe A contemporary realist painter and illustrator who has embraced the techniques of illustration’s Golden Age (as exemplified by the art of Norman Rockwell, Harvey Dunn, Mead Schaeffer, Andrew Loomis, and Tom Lovell), Dan Howe has created artworks for publishers, corporations, public institutions, and private collectors.

Like Rockwell, his art employs the structural patterns and the effects of light and shadow, employing rich tonal harmonies and dramatic perspectives to establish a sense of illusionistic reality.

Springfield Thunderbirds AHL Game Night

December 8 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

SAT, DEC 8, 7:05PM VS CHARLOTTE CHECKERS Teddy Bear Toss presented by Teddy Bear Pools & Spas Bring your stuffed animals and throw them on the ice to celebrate the T-Birds’ first goal! Bears/animals to be donated to area charities Appearance by Princesses Moana & Maui BUY TICKETS The Thunderbirds and the Springfield Parking Authority have, for a third straight year, collaborated to offer FREE PARKING exclusively at the Civic Center Garage on a first-come, first-served basis on game nights throughout the season.

Tenders with Assorted Dipping Sauces French Fries with Ketchup Cheese Pizza and Meat Lovers Pizza Assorted Cookies and Brownies Lemonade, Fruit Punch, Water, Coffee, Tea and Hot Chocolate $20 per person, $15 for children under 12 *Price does not include admission to Bright Nights Pre-Paid Reservations Required Order your tickets by November 9 and receive one free admission ticket to Bright Nights.

BasketBull, Hoops Fest

December 12 - December 15 South End Community Center, 99 Marble Street Springfield, MA 01105

The BasketBull Hoops Fest - Session I, will take place from December 12-15 at the South End Community Center, 99 Marble St, Springfield, MA 01105, It will include games from Prep, Public and private school teams. The 4-day Fest of hoops will feature some of the top programs from New England and around the country.

Springfield Symphony Orchestra, A Holiday Celebration

Springfield Thunderbirds AHL Game Night

Our annual holiday concert returns this year, but bigger and better than ever. In the past we’ve had dancing Santas, the Grinch, and many others. This year, the whole family can expect even more holiday favorites with Special Guests! Announcing Special Guest Longmeadow-Native and 2018 Winner of the Voice Brynn Cartelli! Grammy-nominated singer songwriter Mary Lambert! And Avery Sharpe’s Extended Family Choir! No holiday season is complete without a family trip to the SSO!

WED, DEC 12, 7:05PM VS WILKES-BARRE SCRANTON PENGUINS Winning Wednesday If the T-Birds win, fans with a game ticket will have the ability to receive a free ticket to Weds., Dec. 19 vs. SYR BUY TICKETS The Thunderbirds and the Springfield Parking Authority have, for a third straight year, collaborated to offer FREE PARKING exclusively at the Civic Center Garage on a first-come, first-served basis on game nights throughout the season.

December 8 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Symphony Hall, 34 Court Street Springfield, MA 01103

Symphony Hall, Army Band Holiday Concert

December 9 @ 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm Symphony Hall, 34 Court Street Springfield, MA 01103

The 215th Army Band of the Massachusetts Army National Guard confirmed they will be back in Springfield Symphony Hall on December 9 for the annual holiday concert.

Big Y World Class Markets will be distributing tickets from their stores.

Springfield Thunderbirds AHL Game Night

December 9 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

SUN, DEC 9, 3:05PM VS BINGHAMTON DEVILS Sunday Funday Pack: Four tickets, four hot dogs, four small popcorns, four small sodas – starting from $60 / 2nd Annual Kids Take Over Day presented by Big Y . Appearance

by Princesses Belle & Cinderella / Postgame skate on the MassMutual Center ice for fans in attendance* (fans must bring their own skates) BUY TICKETS The Thunderbirds and the Springfield Parking Authority have, for a third straight year, collaborated to offer FREE PARKING exclusively at the Civic Center

Bright Nights at Forest Park, Supper with Santa December 9 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Forest Park, 300 Sumner Avenue Springfield, MA 01108

Kid Friendly Menu featuring; Chop Chop Salad with Creamy House Dressing, Gorgonzola Cheese and Bacon Baked Ziti Chicken

Stay in the Heart of theCampus

December 12 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

Hotel UMass blends the excitement of campus life with a tranquil, countryside escape making it the ideal destination for your next trip to the Pioneer Valley.

Stay for business or leisure, Hotel UMass has first-class accommodations and services tailored to your needs. Voted #1 Hotel in Amherst

by TripAdvisor, book your room today!

877.822.2110 | www.hotelumass.com | hotel@umass.edu

Delaney House, GrinchMas Wine Dinner December 13 @ 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road (Route 5) Holyoke, MA 01040

Join us at the Delaney House for a Whoville inspired four-course Wine Pairing Dinner followed by a DJ & Dancing! Formal SitDown Dinner With Wine Pairings Thursday, December 13, 6pm - 11pm. $47 per peron.

Yankee Candle Village, PJ Party w/Santa

December 15 @ 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Yankee Candle Village, 25 Greenfield Road South Deerfield, MA 01373

All ages are invited to wear their pajamas for hot cocoa and a story with Santa!

Symphony Hall, The Nutcracker December 15 @ 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm Symphony Hall, 34 Court Street Springfield, MA 01103

Albany Berkshire Ballet (ABB) will present its annual tour of the holiday classic The Nutcracker. The production was choreographed by Artistic Director Madeline Cantarella Culpo. Sets and scenery were created by theater and movie set designer Carl Sprague, a Stockbridge native, and costumes were designed by Rita Watson and Victile Donahue. The Nutcracker will feature local dance students in special children’s roles alongside the professional dancers of the ABB. This year’s company includes dancers from around the United States, as well as, international countries.

More than a Hotel & Conference Center...

The Clarion Hotel caters to both business and leisure travelers and features the only indoor water park in Western Massachusetts!

Clarion Hotel and Aqua Lagoon Water Park - off the main road but close to everything!

1080 Riverdale Street West Springfield, MA 01089 413.781.8750 events calendar | 33

The Log Cabin, SantaCon Cocktail Party

December 15 @ 6:00 pm - 11:30 pm The Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road Holyoke, MA 01040

From coast to coast, SantaCon is enjoyed by many each and every year. Grab your best Santa Suit (or version of it) and join us at the Log Cabin for a cocktail party to remember with DJ & Dancing! Saturday, December 15, 6pm - Midnight. $47 per person.

Springfield Thunderbirds AHL Game Night

December 16 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

SUN, DEC 16, 3:05PM VS HERSHEY BEARS Sunday Funday Pack: Four tickets, four hot dogs, four small popcorns, four small sodas – starting from $60 / Appearance by Princesses Elsa & Anna / Postgame skate on the MassMutual Center ice for fans in attendance* (fans must bring their own skates) BUY TICKETS The Thunderbirds and the Springfield Parking Authority have, for a third straight year, collaborated to offer FREE PARKING exclusively at the Civic Center Garage on a first-come, first-served basis on game nights throughout the season.

UMass Music & Dance, Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker December 18 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm UMass Amherst, 300 Massachusetts Ave Amherst, MA 01003

Christmas is coming and so is the one and only Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker ~ Dove of Peace Tour! Presenting world class Russian artists, hand-painted sets, Russian Snow Maidens, and a 2 dancer Dove of Peace with a 20 foot wingspan – the Great Russian Nutcracker brings the Christmas spirit to life for all ages. “Kids wide-eyed with delight!” says the New York Times.

BasketBull, Hoops Fest

December 19 - December 22 South End Community Center, 99 Marble Street Springfield, MA 01105

The BasketBull Hoops Fest - Session II, will take place from December 19-22 at the South End Community Center, 99 Marble St,

Springfield, MA 01105, It will include games from Prep, Public and private school teams.

The 4-day Fest of hoops will feature some of the top programs from New England and around the country. Admission: Tournament Pass - (good for all 4 days) - $20 Adults - $10/ day Students, Senior Citizens - $5/day 8 and under - FREE.

Mark your calendars and make your reservations - Friday, December 21st | Cocktail Hour: 6:30pm | Dinner Stations Open: 7:00pm.

Dance the night away with your family and friends, featuring festive hors d’oeuvre hour and dinner stations! For more information about these events, call 413-566-5158 or Events@TheStartingGate.com.

Yankee Candle Village,

Springfield Thunderbirds AHL Game Night

Last-Minute Tacky Shopping Night December 19 @ 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Yankee Candle Village, 25 Greenfield Road South Deerfield, MA 01373

Still have gifts to buy? We can help! Plus, wear your best Ugly Christmas Sweater for a chance to win a prize!

The Starting Gate at GreatHorse, Holiday Luncheon Buffet December 19 @ 11:30 am - 1:00 pm The Starting Gate at GreatHorse, 128 Wilbraham Road Hampden, MA 01036

Mark your calendars and make your reservations - Wednesday, December 19th | 11:30am. Bring your friends and co-workers to celebrate the holidays! $45. For more information about these events, call 413-5665158 or Events@TheStartingGate.com.

Springfield Thunderbirds AHL Game Night

December 19 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

WED, DEC 19, 7:05PM VS SYRACUSE CRUNCH Winning Wednesday If the T-Birds win, fans with tickets on this night can receive a free ticket to Weds., Feb. 6 vs. HER BUY TICKETS The Thunderbirds and the Springfield Parking Authority have, for a third straight year, collaborated to offer FREE PARKING exclusively at the Civic Center Garage on a first-come, first-served basis on game nights throughout the season. Another returning game-night promotion is the extremely popular 3-2-1 Fridays.

The Starting Gate at GreatHorse, Holiday Dinner Dance Party

December 21 @ 6:30 pm - 11:00 pm The Starting Gate at GreatHorse, 128 Wilbraham Road Hampden, MA 01036

1254 Riverdale Street West Springfield, MA 01089 www.redroof.com 413-731-1010

December 21 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

FRI, DEC 21, 7:05PM HOME VS UTICA COMETS BUY TICKETS The Thunderbirds and the Springfield Parking Authority have, for a third straight year, collaborated to offer FREE PARKING exclusively at the Civic Center Garage on a first-come, first-served basis on game nights throughout the season.

Another returning game-night promotion is the extremely popular 3-2-1 Fridays. From the time doors open through the end of the first period, fans can purchase select $3 Coors Light drafts (12 oz), $2 Hot Dogs, and $1 sodas.

December 22 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

SAT, DEC 22,7:05PM HOME VS PROVIDENCE BRUINS BUY TICKETS The Thunderbirds and the Springfield Parking Authority have, for a third straight year, collaborated to offer FREE PARKING exclusively at the Civic Center Garage on a first-come, first-served basis on game nights throughout the season. Another returning game-night promotion is the extremely popular 3-2-1 Fridays.

December 28 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

FRI, DEC 28, 7:05PM HOME VS BRIDGEPORT SOUND TIGERS BUY TICKETS The Thunderbirds and the Springfield Parking Authority have, for a third straight year, collaborated to offer FREE PARKING exclusively at the Civic Center Garage on a first-come, first-served basis on game nights throughout the season. Another returning game-night promotion is the extremely popular 3-2-1 Fridays. From the time doors open through the end of the first period, fans can purchase select $3 Coors Light drafts (12 oz), $2 Hot Dogs, and $1 sodas.

American International College Hockey December 29 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

The Yellow Jackets at the MassMutual Center.

The Division I Men’s Ice Hockey team take to the ice. SAT DEC 29, 7:05 P.M.vs Robert Morris University. Tickets prices are $12 for adults; $7 for seniors (65+), Military / Veterans and children (12-18). Children (12 and under) $5.

Tickets can be purchased at the MassMutual Center box office. Additional information about American International College’s athletic and academic programs is available online at www.aic.edu.

December 30 @ 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

The Yellow Jackets at the MassMutual Center.

The Division I Men’s Ice Hockey team take to the ice. SUN DEC 30, 3:05 P.M.vs Robert Morris University. Tickets prices are $12 for adults; $7 for seniors (65+), Military / Veterans and

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Springfield Armory History of the Springfield Armory Established by George Washington in 1794, the Springfield Armory is the nation’s first armory. Closed as an armory in 1968 and opened as a National Historic Site in 1974, the site includes historic grounds, buildings, and the world’s largest historic American military firearms collection.

West Mass Brass Band Holiday Concert

Christmas at Springfield Armory

Saturday, December 8 at 2:30pm

Saturday, December 22 at 2:00pm

Join us for an afternoon holiday concert performed by West Mass Brass Band. Listen to holiday classics and sing along to your favorite songs. Concert will take place in the museum. Light refreshments will be available at intermission.

What was it like working at the Armory during WWII? How did Armory workers keep their morale up while loved ones fought overseas during WWII, especially during the Christmas season? Join Ranger Susan Ashman for her holiday presentation, followed by a tour of the Commandant’s house.

Bullets to Bazookas: Anti-Material Weapons of the 20th Century Saturday, January 19 at 2:00pm As tanks and armor came into being, so too did ways to defeat them. Join Ranger Scott Gausen as we explore famous and not-so-famous antimaterial weapons of the 20th century, such as the German T-Gewehr of WWI and the British PIAT of WWII.

Rangers “Tell It All” Join us for a Ranger-led tour in the museum. Highlight Tours are fast paced views of one targeted topic or object from the Armory’s collection. Offered weekends at 2 PM. Approximately 15-20 minutes.

Junior Ranger Program Become a Jr. Ranger and explore the exhibits and grounds to learn about our first national armory. Once children complete their selected activities, they are sworn in as Junior Rangers and earn a patch or badge, certificate, and other fun prizes. Offered daily.

Hours The Armory Museum is open daily through Oct 31st 2016. November 1st through Memorial Day our schedule changes to Wednesday –Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM, except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas, and New Years Day. There is no charge for admission.

Group Tours: Please call ahead for an appointment, 413-734-8551 ext. 235.

Springfield Armory National Historic Site, Armory Square, Suite 2, Springfield, MA 01105-1299 299 For more information 413-734-8551 www.nps.gov/spar EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICATM

35

children (12-18). Children (12 and under) $5.

Tickets can be purchased at the MassMutual Center box office. Additional information about American International College’s athletic and academic programs is available online at www.aic.edu.

Holyoke’s Annual First Night Jr. New Years Eve Celebration December 31 @ 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Holyoke, Maple and Lyman Street Holyoke, MA 01040

22nd annual First Night Jr. presented by the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round and the Children’s Museum! First Night, Jr. will be held from 10AM - 4PM! Tickets: $8 per person - All admissions and performances included in ticket price! The $8 admission provides: unlimited rides on the Merry-Go-Round; admission to the Children’s Museum and Volleyball Hall of Fame; musical performance by Roger Tincknell; glitter tattoos

by Joelle Crosby; creation of an ice sculpture

by Mike Rondeau; face painting, a balloon sculpture and more!

Westfield State has provided me with the tools to continue down any path I choose.

DEREK, ‘19 LIBERAL STUDIES/SPANISH

Northampton First Night New Years Eve

December 31 @ 12:00 pm - 11:59 pm Downtown Northampton Northampton, MA 01060

Excellence is waiting.

Find out how this environment inspires you.

To think. To be curious. To grow.

The Northampton Arts Council is delighted to present Northampton’s 34th annual New Year’s Eve festival of the performing arts on December 31, 2018. First Night continues to be a special opportunity to celebrate the cultural vibrancy of our community while sharing time with friends, neighbors and visitors. As always, there will be a magical display of fireworks early in the evening and a traditional midnight “ball-raising” at the Hotel Northampton. Please plan to join our city’s signature, family-friendly New Year’s

westfield.ma.edu

Bright Nights at Forest Park, New Years Eve December 31 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm Forest Park, 300 Sumner Avenue Springfield, MA 01108

Santa’s Magical Forest Free noisemaker or hat for children Free amusement rides for children.

JANUARY 2019 American International College Hockey January 5, 2019 @ 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

· Complimentary Full Breakfast · Wireless Internet

· Extended Stay Suites with full kitchen available

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36 | events calendar

The Yellow Jackets at the MassMutual Center.

The Division I Men’s Ice Hockey team take to the ice. SAT JAN 5, 1:05 P.M.vs University of Massachusetts. Tickets prices are $12 for adults; $7 for seniors (65+), Military / Veterans and children (12-18). Children (12 and under) $5.

Tickets can be purchased at the MassMutual Center box office. Additional information about American International College’s athletic and academic programs is available online at www.aic.edu.

Springfield Thunderbirds AHL Game Night

January 5, 2019 7 pm - 9:30 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103 SAT, JAN 5, 7:05PM HOME VS PROVIDENCE

BRUINS Blast from the Past Night presented

by MassMutual Springfield Indians throwback jerseys to be auctioned / Blast from the past themed game presentation. BUY TICKETS The Thunderbirds and the Springfield Parking Authority have, for a third straight year, collaborated to offer FREE PARKING exclusively at the Civic Center Garage on a first-come, first-served basis on game nights throughout the season. Another returning game-night promotion is the extremely popular 3-2-1 Fridays.

The Log Cabin, Holidays Around the World January 12, 2019 @ 6:00 pm - 11:30 pm The Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road Holyoke, MA 01040

Celebrate the Holidays with us at the Log Cabin while enjoying cuisines from all over the world! Take a tour of India, Italy, France and South America as you visit our food stations followed by DJ and Dancing! Lavish Food Stations DJ & Dancing Saturday, January 12, 6pm - Midnight. $40 per person.

BasketBull, Jr. HoopHall Classic January 19, 2019 - January 20, 2019 Springfield College, 263 Alden Street Springfield, MA 01109

The 10th annual Jr. HoopHall Classic will be held in conjunction with Spalding HoopHall Classic on MLK weekend at Springfield College, in their fieldhouse and surrounding areas. The tournament is open to boys teams, with separate divisions for AAU and Travel programs. Teams are encouraged to register to support your High School teams participating that weekend. Come play in one of the most competitive travel tournaments in the winter period.

MassMutual Center, Monster Truck Tour

January 19, 2019 @ 12 pm - 7:30 pm MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

Springfield will be motorsport entertainment’s epicenter with the nation’s most competitive MONSTER TRUCKS, as the TRAXXAS Monster Truck Tour invades the MassMutual Center for two amazing shows January 19th! See these incredible 10,000 pound, car crushing giants compete in racing, wheelie contests, and then rock the house with amazing freestyle action during the TRAXXAS Monster Truck Tour! Plus, you can meet the drivers and see the trucks up close at the pre-event Autograph Pit Party!

Storrowton Village, First Person Presentation: Harriet Tubman January 25, 2019 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Storrowton Village at ESE, 1305 Memorial Avenue West Springfield, MA 01089

Storrowton’s annual entertaining and educational presentation event, followed by a question and answer session. Event takes place from 7-8pm and tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door.

Eastern States Exposition,

Amherst Railway Society Hobby Show Jan. 26 & 27, 2019 @ 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Eastern States Exposition, 1305 Memorial Avenue West Springfield, MA 01089 The “Who’s Who” of the Amherst Railway Society’s Railroad Hobby Show Reads like a

Directory of some of the best in the business.

Anything and everything having to do with trains is located somewhere on our 9 plus acres of display area. More than 20,500 railfans and public attended the Show each of the past five years. In 2018, the 50th Anniversary Show boasted 400,000 square feet of trains and train related exhibits...that’s 9 acres of trains!

Springfield Thunderbirds, 2019 AHL All-Star Classic

January 27, 2019 - January 28, 2019 MassMutual Center, 1277 Main Street Springfield, MA 01103

Join us for a two-day event showcasing the NHL stars of tomorrow in downtown Springfield. The 2019 AHL All-Star Classic will begin with the AHL All-Star Skills Competition on Sunday, January 27, featuring the following events: Puck Control Relay, Fastest Skater, Rapid Fire, Hardest Shot, Accuracy Shooting, Pass and Score, and Breakaway Relay. For the first time in 60 years, the AHL’s All-Stars will be coming to Springfield!

FEBRUARY 2019

Scheherazade & American Women Composers February 2, 2019 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Symphony Hall, 34 Court Street Springfield, MA 01103

Classical music lovers will realize just how far we’ve come when the orchestra contrasts the creative accomplishments of these three

Springfield Museums, Culture & Cocktails

February 7, 2019 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards St Springfield, MA 01103

A memorable stay in a great location, all at an affordable price.

First Thursdays, bi-monthly, 5-8 pm includes hor d’oeuvres, entertainment, and cash bar.

10.4.18 Oktoberfest: The Art of the Brew (8th annual) Annual beer tasting and homebrew competition. Be among the first to taste a new Springfield Museums-White Lion collaboration, plus live music by The Happy Five Oompah Band. All tasting included while supplies last. 12.13.18: Holiday Pop! Celebrate the opening of the new exhibit Pop!

Springfield Symphony Orchestra

Mendelssohn’s Italian & Brahms February 23, 2019 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Symphony Hall, 34 Court Street Springfield, MA 01103

Mendelssohn’s Italian Symphony captures, according to its composer, the supreme joy of life in Italy. This sentiment is undeniably felt from the first moment of the symphony, to the last. Prolific celebrity violinist, and SSO audience favorite, Rachel Barton Pine returns to Springfield to play Brahms’ only violin concerto on an instrument chosen by Brahms himself! We continue our celebration of American women composers with a song

by Augusta Read Thomas who said “ song celebrates lyric, prayerful lines allied to warm harmonies.

Make your reservation today at the

Quality Inn & Suites Northampton – Amherst

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Springfield Symphony Orchestra

invaluable American women composers with the uncertain fate of the slave, Scheherazade.

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events calendar | 37

Your Wedding or Event

Photos courtesy of Dani Fine Photography, Tremaine Photography and Stephanie Pierce Photography.

All photos courtesy of Six Flags New England.

Winter

Wonderland IS A WALK IN THE PARK

BY TIERA N. WRIGHT Special to The Republican While holidays at Six Flags New England are synonymous with its annual Fright Fest, a haunted celebration of epic and ghoulish proportions; Six Flags is now trading in their zombies and demons for Santa and his elves.

Much like the ruddy face Mr. Claus himself, the second annual Holiday in The Park® is coming to town for weekends and select dates now through January 1st. “[We are] always looking at ways to create new and magical experiences for our guests” says Jennifer McGrath, Communications and Marketing Manager of Six Flags New England.

“Holiday in the Park is an event for the entire family and a new holiday tradition.”

The largest holiday celebration in New England, Holiday in the Park was in production for two years before its launch in Winter 2017. Much like the Spring Break kickoff Spring of

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Thrills, Summer’s go to destination Hurricane Harbor, and Fall’s previously mentioned Fright Fest; Holiday in the Park was a natural extension of Six Flags New England’s seasonal offerings.

The perfect holiday treat for adults, children of all ages, and kids at heart, Holiday in the Park boasts a myriad of unique and festive holiday experiences awash in luminous LED lights, décor and set to the dulcet tones of carolers walking around the park. Complete with Christmas trees, picture-perfect photo areas, and a selection of holiday themed food, such as caramel apple funnel cakes, hot chocolate and eggnog; not to mention the numerous entertainment options—Holiday in the Park is a veritable wintry wonderland.

“It is magical, fun and a great way to get into the holiday spirit,” says McGrath, continuing “parkgoers and their families will also enjoy roaming interactive holiday characters, fire-pits with S’mores, musical light shows, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus.”

Known as the “Thrill Capital of New England,” no event at Six Flags would be complete without the signature rides and top ranked coasters parkgoers have become accustom to. “There will be enough rides to

entertain the entire family from the tiniest of thrill seekers or those hoping to go as fast as Santa’s sleigh,” says McGrath. Featuring over 25 rides throughout Holiday in the Park, riders can expect access to everything from Six Flag’s The RIDDLER Revenge rollercoaster, the New England Express Train, and beloved rides originating back to the park’s roots, Riverside Park, such as the 1909 Illions Grand Carousel, Scrambler and Thunderbolt.

While visitors will have access to most of the park, even heroes deserve a break; and with all the atmospheric attractions and holiday events planned for this season, the DC Superhero Area is closed during Holiday in the Park.

Currently, ticket prices for Six Flags New England are $70.99 for the day, but special offers and discounts can be found online. Additionally, admission to Holiday in the Park is included for Season Pass holders, who are given unlimited visits for the length of the event, and the park throughout the year. Visitors can also give the gift that keeps on giving; says McGrath, “[a Season Pass] makes for the best holiday gift this season.” Furthermore, Holiday in the Park will also feature several retail shops for those looking to check items off their holiday shopping

list for the “superhero-loving, thrillseeking” person in their life.

Even the holiday spirit isn’t always immune to the unpredictability of New England weather. “We always monitor the weather to ensure safe conditions for both our guests and team members,” says McGrath. While their intention is to spread holiday cheer in rain or shine, parkgoers are encouraged to visit the Six Flags New England website for the latest information on times, operating days and potential closures prior to visiting the park.

Ultimately, says McGrath, “our goal is to create a unique Holiday experience that guests cannot find anywhere else in New England; the holidays are a time to celebrate with friends and family and our park is honored to host the largest holiday celebration in New England.”

For a complete list of days and more information on special offers and discounts, visit: sixflags.com/newengland HOLIDAY IN THE PARK® HIGHLIGHTS: Over 25 Rides Millions of Dazzling Lights Visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus Holiday Entertainment Festive Holiday Treats 30ft Walk-Through Ornament 50ft Kringle Lane Tree 70ft+ North Star Tree (made of lights) LIST OF ANTICIPATED RIDES • Houdini • Stampede Bumper Cars • Rock N Rodeo • Tomahawk • Krazy Kars • Krazy Kups • Wild Wheelz • Whirlybirdz • Ship’s Ahoy!

• Animation Department • Daffy’s Hollywood Tours • Great Chase • Speed Trap • Taz’s Prop Delivery • Tweet’s Clubhouse • 1909 Illions Grand Carousel • New England Express • Thunderbolt • Balloon Race • Scrambler • Buzzsaw • Crimewave • Kontiki • Mind Eraser • Batman The Dark Knight • The Joker • Fireball

events calendar feature | 41

ARTS, MUSEUMS, GALLERIES &

entertainment

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of 2017 graduates o a employed or are c continuing their e education. o students receive of fi financial aid.

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AMELIA PARK CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Permanent exhibit: hands-on activities and creative exhibits, the Hurricane Simulator. Hours: Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sun. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $7, $3.50 seniors, free for children 1 year and under. Members, teachers and military personal receive $1 off.

29 South Broad St., Westfield ameliaparkmuseum.org.

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM AT HOLYOKE

Permanent exhibit: Come experience the new STEM based World of Motion Exhibit. So many hands on things to do including a build your own race car and track, Eye Play floor, bottle rocket launcher, magnetic world and more. Something fun to do for all ages. Tues.-Fri. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun. noon-4 p.m. $8, $5 seniors, children under 1 free.

444 Dwight St., Holyoke or childrensmuseumholyoke.org

CITY STAGE

Box Office Phone: 413-788-7033 tickets@citystage.symphonyhall.com Box Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

One Columbus Center 150 Bridge Street, Springfield, MA 01103

ERIC CARLE MUSEUM OF PICTURE BOOK ART Learn more at http://fairfield.marriott.com/guarantee.php

Learn more at http://fairfield.marriott.com/guarantee.php

42 | entertainment

Permanent exhibit: Gabrielle Healy Carroll Storytime Programs are held Tues. and Fri. 10:30 a.m.; Sat. 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m., free with admission. Hours: Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4

p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon5 p.m. $6, $9, $22.50 for a family of four. “Treasures from the Collection: A 15 Year Celebration” on view through April 1. 125 West Bay Road,

Amherst, carlemuseum.org.

EMILY DICKINSON MUSEUM 280 Main Street, Amherst, emilydickinsonmuseum.org

HISTORIC NORTHAMPTON MUSEUM AND EDUCATION

Permanent exhibit. Hours: Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. noon-4 p.m. $3 individuals, $6 families, “Single Room Occupancy: Portraits and Stories from Northampton.

46 Bridge St., Northampton, historic-northampton.org.

HOLYOKE HERITAGE STATE PARK VISITOR CENTER

Permanent exhibit: Holyoke Parks and Recreation exhibits depict city’s history. Tues.-Sun. 12-4 p.m. free,

221 Appleton St., Holyoke (413) 534-1723.

JOSIAH DAY HOUSE

Permanent exhibit: featuring guided tours, artifacts, furniture, clothing and documents from 1754-1902.

Call for open house schedule and individual tours. $3, $1 children 6-12, free for members, 70 Park St., West

Springfield (413) 734-8322.

MASSACHUSETTS MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART

Permanent exhibit, “Works by James Turrell, Sol LeWitt, and Laurie Anderson” currently on extended view. Fall/Winter hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.,

Wed.-Mon, closed Tues. $20 adults, $18 seniors/veterans, $12 students with ID, $8 children (6-16); $2 EBT/ WIC Cardholder; children under 6 and museum members including MCLA and Williams College students, visit for free, massmoca.org/event/thelure-of-the-dark. 87 Marshall St.,

North Adams, massmoca.org.

MAJESTIC THEATER

131 Elm Street, West Springfield

MEAD ART MUSEUM

Permanent exhibit: various American and European paintings, Mexican ceramics, Tibetan scroll paintings and more. Museum hours: Tues.-Thurs. and Sun. 9 a.m.-midnight; Fri. 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. free,

220 South Pleasant St., Amherst, amherst.edu.

MOUNT HOLYOKE COLLEGE ART MUSEUM

Permanent Exhibit: “Piece Together: The Quilts of Mary Lee Bendolph.”

An exhibition featuring the improvisational and bold quilts of Mary Lee Bendolph from a town with generations of quiltmakers, Gee’s Bend, Alabama. Through May 27.

Hours: Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat.Sun. 1-5 p.m. Free, open to the public,

Lower Lake Road, South Hadley, mtholyoke.edu.

NAISMITH MEMORIAL BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME

Permanent exhibit: three floors with dozens of hands-on exhibits, a regulation-sized basketball court and more than 900 artifacts on display.

Hours: Mon.-Fri. and Sun. 10 a.m.4 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $19, $15 seniors 65+, $14 children 5-15, free for children 4 and under,

1000 West Columbus Ave., Springfield, hoophall.com.

NORMAN ROCKWELL MUSEUM

Permanent exhibit: Gallery talks on the second Tues. of every month at 1:30 p.m. Hours: Open daily Nov.-April weekdays 10 a.m.-4 p.m., weekends and holidays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Gallery talks daily, 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. $18, $17 seniors, $10 students, $6 children 6-18, free for members and children 5 and under,

9 Route 183, Stockbridge, nrm.org.

OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE: PERMANENT EXHIBIT

Visit Kidstory, a new indoor learning gallery in the Visitor’s Center where kids ages 3-10 can try on period costumes and imagine life in the 1830s; “Neat and Tasty: Getting Dressed in Early New England”; apparel in portraiture. Hours: Wed.Sun. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $24, $22 seniors, $8 children 3-17, free for kids under 3.

Route 20, Sturbridge, osv.org.

PAN AFRICAN HISTORICAL MUSEUM USA

Permanent exhibit: exhibitions by local artists. Hours: Tues.-Fri. noon-4 p.m. free,

1500 Main St., Springfield (413) 733-1823.

POLISH CENTER OF DISCOVERY AND LEARNING

Elm Street at Bedford Terrace, Northampton, scam.smith.edu.

SPRINGFIELD ARMORY NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

Ranger-led interpretive programs offered in the museum in the afternoon. Junior Ranger programs conducted frequently each day.

Hours: Wed.-Sun. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., closed on Mon. and Tues. National Parks passes available, picnic tables available on site.

1 Armory Square, Springfield, nps.gov/spar.

SPRINGFIELD MUSEUMS & DR. SEUSS IN SPRINGFIELD • George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum • Springfield Science Museum

Permanent exhibit: a living monument safeguarding historical objects representative of the material culture of the Polish people in America. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 1-5 p.m. $5 donation.

33 South St., Chicopee, polishcenter.net.

SMITH COLLEGE MUSEUM OF ART

• Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts • Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History • The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss

21 Edwards St, Springfield

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entertainment | 43

SYMPHONY HALL

WISTARIAHURST MUSEUM

Performance venue

34 Court Street, Springfield

TITANIC MUSEUM

Permanent exhibit: exhibits from the collection of the International Titanic Historical Society. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $4, $2 children and students,

208 Main St., Indian Orchard, titanic1.org.

UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART - FINE ARTS CENTER

Permanent exhibit: “Wisteria Vines in Full Bloom.” Carriage House and Gift shop open Sat.-Sun, Mon. noon4 p.m.; Historic house tours $7, $5 students and seniors,

238 Cabot St., Holyoke, wistariahurst.org.

YIDDISH BOOK CENTER

Permanent exhibit, “A Velt mit veltelekh: The Worlds of Jewish Culture.” $10, $8 member, $5 student.

1021 West St., Amherst, yiddishbookcenter.org.

Permanent exhibit. Hours: Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 2-5 p.m.

Closed Mondays, holidays and spring break.

151 Presidents Drive, Amherst

VOLLEYBALL HALL OF FAME

Permanent sports exhibit. Hours: Thur.-Sun. noon-4:30 p.m. $2.50-$3.50,

444 Dwight St., Holyoke, volleyhall.org.

To submit upcoming events or entertainment for the next issue of EXPLORE please

email Michelle at mjohnson@repub.com

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44 | entertainment

SPRINGFIELD

Thunderbirds

BY ALLISON LITERA Special to The Republican First came the Springfield Indians.

Then the Springfield Falcons. Today, the Springfield Thunderbirds are flying high on the ice at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield.

“The Springfield Thunderbirds’ name represents the strength and pride of Western Massachusetts,” says Nathan Costa, President of the Thunderbirds. “It is a nod to our hockey past, a tribute to the men and women of the Air Force who are so vital to this region, and a symbol of the new energy and spirit that is palpable in Springfield.”

The Thunderbirds are a member of the American Hockey League (AHL). The AHL has been present in

Springfield, Massachusetts for more than 80 years, serving as the top development league for the players, coaches, managers, executives, broadcasters and staff of all 31 National Hockey League teams. More than 87 percent of today’s NHL players are American Hockey League graduates, and more than 100 honored members of the Hockey Hall of Fame spent time in the AHL in their careers.

“In 2017-18, over 6 million fans attended AHL regular-season and playoff games across North America for the 17th year in a row,” adds Costa.

The Springfield Thunderbirds are also the primary affiliate team to the Florida Panthers.

The Thunderbirds host special events and promotions at their games

on a weekly basis, adding to the fun of a traditional hockey game.

“We’re really focused on making game night an experience at the NHL level; an all-encompassing, family friendly and fun hockey game,” says Costa. “For example, on Friday nights we have our weekly concert series through our presenting partner, MGM Springfield. Live local music takes place from 6-7 p.m. in the arena before the game starts. We also have our 3-2-1 Fridays, where we sell $3 Coors beer, $2 hot dogs, and $1 sodas until the end of the first period.

The team hosts “Sunday Fundays” on Sunday nights and “Winning Wednesdays” on Wednesday nights.

“If the Thunderbirds win that game (on a Wednesday night), fans get a

entertainment | 45

free ticket to the next weekday game,” says Costa.

On Saturday, December 8, the Thunderbirds will have their annual Teddy Bear Toss.

“It’s a great way to give back to the community,” explains Costa. “Bring a brand-new teddy bear to the game, and there will be an opportunity to chuck the bears onto the ice (kind of like a puck chuck). The bears will be donated to local charities, and handdelivered by the players.”

The team will host its annual throwback night on Saturday, January 5 at their game versus the Providence Bruins. The Thunderbirds will wear Springfield Indians jerseys as a homage to their roots. Hometown Heroes, in conjunction with Marvel and Black Panther, will be held at the January 12 game.

Their biggest upcoming event will be the 2019 Lexus AHL All-Star Classic presented by MGM Springfield, which will take place on Jan. 27-28, 2019 at the MassMutual Center.

“This is Springfield’s first time hosting the All-Star classic since 1959… it’s been 60 years,” says Costa. “It’s the first time the event will be held in Springfield in the modern era.”

The event will be sure to draw a large crowd to Springfield.

Overall, the Thunderbirds strive for family fun and a memorable experience for everyone who attends, no matter their age.

“Our games are great entertainment for those who may not even be hockey fans,” concludes Costa.

46

47

Museums SPRINGFIELD

“PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH” IS A FAMILIAR SIGN SEEN IN MANY MUSEUMS...

BUT WHAT ABOUT “PLEASE DON’T EAT?”

BY KEITH O’CONNOR Special to The Republican That is exactly what visitors may find in the Springfield Science Museum, home to this year’s annual Gingerbread: The Pop Culture Edition exhibit now through Dec. 31. Selected “edible” gingerbread houses – created by area bakeries, schools, organizations, and individuals both young and notso-young – will be on display accented by creative murals, festively decorated trees and other enchanting elements.

This year’s “pop culture” theme invites sugary entries from the air waves to the cinema and from the written word to the digital age.

“Our Gingerbread Contest and Exhibit has become a special event that families from the region depend on for their holiday events. The exhibit, which was highlighted by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism last holiday season, is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit. While visiting the area, we hope that you can make the time to indulge your senses in this very special exhibit and explore all that the Springfield Museums has to offer,” said Larissa Murray, Director of Education for the Springfield Museums.

Last year’s theme – Gingerbread

48 | entertainment feature

in Space – resulted in many inspired entries such as “The Time Machine,” made with love by Cheryl Barnhart of Agawam, Mass. She put gingerbread, pasta, fondant, Rice Krispy Treats, coconut, gumballs, sprinkles, alum, jelly beans and Mike and Ikes to good use in creating her first place H.G. Wells’ time machine entered in the Adult Division.

“It’s amazing the ideas people come up. In addition to a feast for the eyes, when you walk into the room the first thing that happens is your sense of smell is so overwhelmed with the aroma of gingerbread, candy, sugar and other ingredients,” Barnhart said.

Gingerbread Saturdays on Dec. 1, 8 and 15 are tailor-made for the kids traveling with you. Santa will be greeting all children, whether naughty or nice, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.at the Pop Culture Gingerbread exhibit. While there, young elves can visit Santa’s Workshop and make their own gift to give to a special loved one, complete with trimmings, including card and gift tag. Also, the Mount Crumpet Derby from noon to 4 p.m. offers the opportunity to design a mini-sleigh to race down a mini-mountain and see who can bring the Grinch down to Whoville the fastest. And, the Grinch – that lovable curmudgeon whose heart grew three sizes – will be roaming the area for photographs, high fives and hugs.

Also, on Dec. 13, the Springfield Museums will host a special program called Holiday Pop! Celebrating the opening of the new exhibit Pop! Icons of American Culture from the

Smithsonian in the D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts, visitors can play pop culture trivia and enjoy a presentation by a Smithsonian curator. In the Science Museum, participants can further explore Gingerbread: The Pop Culture Edition exhibit, watch a professional baker at work, and create their own festive dessert. Other activities include a Sports as Pop Culture and More lecture by Damion Thomas, Museum Curator of Sports, National Museum of African American History and Culture. In addition, Chef Eric Hirsh will be decorating a gingerbread version of Superman’s Daily Planet building.

The Springfield Museums, located on 21 Edwards St. in Springfield, offers access to five world-class museums including the Springfield Science Museum, George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum, Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts, Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History and The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum.

Museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on Monday.

It is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission is $25 and includes all five museums, $13 for youth ages 3-17, and children under 3 are free. College students and seniors 60 and over are $16.50.

For more information, call 413-314-6479 or visit springfieldmuseums.org

Visit the first and only museum dedicated to Springfield-native Dr. Seuss

TM & © DSE

#TheGrinch is coming!

ART • HISTORY • SCIENCE • SEUSS IN SPRINGFIELD

21 Edwards St, Springfield, MA 01103 • 800.625.7738 • SpringfieldMuseums.org •

ROAR!

BY RAY KELLY rkelly@repub.com MGM Springfield announced the first acts to play its new comedy club, Roar!, which opens its door at the historic Armory there in January.

The comedy series is being developed by John Tobin Presents of Boston.

“Entertainment is the cornerstone of MGM Springfield’s experience in downtown Springfield,” said Talia Spera,

50 | entertainment feature

COMEDY CLUB

executive director of entertainment of MGM Springfield. “The partnership with John Tobin Presents to create the new ROAR! Comedy Series reinforces our commitment to energizing the city and enriching downtown entertainment.”

Tickets go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. and prices for these specific shows will range between $23-33, future show prices may vary.

All tickets are available through Ticketmaster.

THE COMEDIANS SCHEDULED TO PERFORM AT ROAR! INCLUDE: Roy Wood Jr. Friday and Saturday, Jan. 4-5 Sam Morril Thursday-Saturday, Jan. 10-12 Chris Distefano Friday and Saturday, Jan. 18-19 Rafinha Bastos Sunday, Jan. 20 Michael Kosta Friday and Saturday, Jan. 25-26 K Trevor Wilson Thursday-Saturday, Jan. 31-Feb. 2 Michael Yo Friday and Saturday, Feb. 15-16 Phil Hanley Friday-Sunday, Feb. 28-March 2 Samuel Comroe Thursday-Saturday, March 21-23 Rachel Feinstein Friday and Saturday, March 29-30 Bret Ernst Thursday-Saturday, April 4-6 Tim Dillon Thursday-Saturday, April 11-13 Robert Kelly Thursday-Saturday, April 18-20 Alonzo Bodden Thursday-Saturday, May 2-4

03096929

Tobin has been a mainstay in the Boston Comedy scene since 1992, when he started as a doorman at a local comedy club. Today, John Tobin Presents, produces and operates shows in and around Boston at well-known clubs and venues such as Laugh Boston, The Comedy Scene at Patriot Place, The Boch Center, The Norwood Theatre, WooHaHa! Comedy Club and the legendary Nick’s Comedy Stop.

We are extremely excited to be partnering with MGM Springfield in this new venture,” said John Tobin, CEO of John Tobin Presents. “They are an incredible organization to work with. The Armory is a magnificent venue and it’s going to be a stunning space for guests of MGM and people throughout the area to come check out the funniest stand-up comedians working today.”

The Armory was originally built for the Massachusetts Militia and later used by the Massachusetts National Guard. The Armory is now used as stunning event space, activated with pop-up art galleries, seasonal events, concerts and more.

entertainment feature | 51

Enjoy a casual glamour and laid-back luxe of Italy evening.

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local flavor

DINING GUIDE

BNAPOLI

185 ELM ST. WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA 01089

NICK’S NEST 1597 NORTHAMPTON ST., HOLYOKE, MA (413) 532-5229

(413) 240-2106 BNAPOLIITALIAN.COM BOATHOUSE RESTAURANT 1 ALVORD ST. SOUTH HADLEY, MA (413) 536-2342 BOATHOUSEDINING.COM DQ GRILL & CHILL RESTAURANT 1535 MEMORIAL DR., CHICOPEE, MA (413) 535-3005

FELIX'S BREAKFAST AND SANDWICH SHOP BREAKFAST. LUNCH. SPANISH MEALS. CATERING OPEN MON-FRIDAY 6AM-5PM, SAT-SUN 7AM-2PM 67 LIBERTY ST. SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 306-6010

THE HILLS

60 N WESTFIELD ST FEEDING HILLS, MA 413-363-9018

IYA SUSHI AND NOODLE KITCHEN 15 COLLEGE ST., VILLAGE COMMONS SOUTH HADLEY, MA (413) 538-8222 IYASUSHI.COM

PARTNERS @ the CUP 240 WESTFIELD STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA (413) 301-8440 www.partnersrestaurant.com

PARTNERS @ THE CUP 240 WESTFIELD ST WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA 01089

(413) 301-8440 PARTNERSRESTAURANT.COM

JOHNNY’S BAR & GRILLE 23 COLLEGE ST. SOUTH HADLEY, MA (413)534-8222 JOHNNYSBARANDGRILLE.COM JOHNNY’S TAP ROOM 23 COLLEGE ST. SOUTH HADLEY, MA (413) 534-8222 JOHNNYSBARANDGRILLE.COM

PARTNERS RESTAURANT & CATERING 485 SPRINGFIELD STREET, FEEDING HILLS, & CATERING

01030 PARTNERSMARESTAURANT (413) 786-0975

FRIGO’S FOOD

90 WILLAMS ST SPRINGFIELD, MA

413-732-5428 FRIGOFOODS.COM

JOHNNY’S TAVERN 30 BOATWOOD WALK AMHERST, MA (413) 230-3813 JOHNNYSTAVERNAMHERST.COM

485 SPRINGFIELD ST www.partnersrestaurant.com FEEDING HILLS, MA 01030

(413) 786-0975 PARTNERSRESTAURANT.COM

Main Kitchen CHINESE RESTAURANT

MAIN KITCHEN

1343 CAREW ST. SPRINGFIELD, MA

FRONTERA GRILL

(413) 788-7770

RICHARD’S GRINDERS 875 MEMORIAL AVE, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA 01089

1625 MEMORIAL DR., CHICOPEE, MA

(413) 612-2800

(413) 732-3435 RICHARDSGRINDERS.COM

1411 BOSTON RD., SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 455-2101 FRONTERAFRESHMEX.COM

MAX’S TAVERN

1000 W COLUMBUS BLVD. SPRINGFIELD, MA 01105

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GINO’S PIZZA AND GRILL 459 DWIGHT ST. SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 734-4466 GINOSPIZZAANDGRILL.COM HALFWAY HOUSE 322 NEWTON ST. SOUTH HADLEY, MA (413) 532-9286

MCLADDEN’S 27 PLEASANT ST. NORTHAMPTON, MA (413) 341-3680 37 LASALLE RD. WEST HARTFORD, CT (860) 231-8773 6 WILCOX ST. SIMSBURY, CT (860) 408-9626 MCLADDENS.COM

SLÁINTE HOLYOKE

80 JARVIS AVE. HOLYOKE, MA

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local flavor listings | 53

I TA L I A N

54 | local flavor feature

All photos courtesy of bNapoli.

bNapoli

BY TIERA N. WRIGHT Special to The Republican

West Springfield is home to bNapoli Italian, a fine dining experience that serves up traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist. “Authenticity is the driving force behind our success,” says Jerry Moccia owner of bNapoli.

Influenced by his childhood and surrounded by the restaurant business in Italy, Moccia, opened bNapoli in June of 2016 with the hopes of revolutionizing Italian cuisine while staying true to his Italian roots and family recipes. A big believer of “dining without compromise,” Moccia, who has designated the latter as bNapoli’s motto, says his “customers appreciate good quality ingredients prepared expertly and founded through a true Italian heritage.”

In addition to celebrating and accentuating Moccia’s Italian heritage and past, bNapoli also honors the present with inventive dishes that highlight Western Massachusetts’ expansive farming community.

“Every ingredient and technique are intentional and thought out meticulously to create an experience that is one of a kind,” says Moccia who utilizes locally-sourced ingredients of both land and sea origins produced in New England. bNapoli’s menu is ever-evolving with seasonal offerings that are exclusive to their Spring/Summer and

Fall/Winter menus. Their signature dishes range from the more traditional fare such as house made pastas to unique offerings, including Grilled Octopus and Whole Branzino. As their website states, bNapoli, “can offer seasonal vegetables straight from the farm, seafood caught the same day, and meats both farm-fresh and expertly cured.”

In addition to the fully stocked bar, draft beers and cocktails, bNapoli takes pride in its wine offerings, as well, with a collection of red, white and sparkling wines to suit the connoisseur in all of us. Adds Moccia, “our state-of-the-art temperature-controlled wine room houses over 100 wines from around the world.”

Additionally, he continues, “our staff

make wine recommendations based on customer taste and preference to pair with our farm to table entrées.”

Whether purchased by the glass or by the bottle, diners can choose from an array of wines, which are updated weekly, such as Prosecco, Chardonnay, Durello, Malbec, and Merlot.

Ultimately, Moccia concludes, “in a world of travelers and foodies, our customers have remained loyal and have come to know and appreciate the details and care we put into all our dishes.” bNapoli Italian, located on 185 Elm Street in West Springfield, is open evenings for dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Reservations can be made by phone and online; walk-ins are welcome.

Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens Thousands of tropical butterflies await your arrival at Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory!

Our 8,000 square foot conservatory is home to exotic insects, lizards, tortoises, birds and Koi fish.

It’s always 80 degrees at Magic Wings!

Full food court and gift shop on site.

Open daily 9-5, 7 days a week All year round.

281 Greenfield Road, South Deerfield, MA • www.magicwings.com

03 0 98 09 3

413-665-2805

local flavor feature | 55

Theodore’s Blues, Booze, and BBQ

A Culinary Trek

THROUGH DOWNTOWN SPRINGFIELD

BY TIERA N. WRIGHT SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN

MGM may be the new kid on the block (yes, this was my lame attempt to work in my excitement for Wahlburgers coming next year), but downtown Springfield has several restaurants for any occasion.

So pick your poison; drink with friends, a quick bite, kid friendly, formal or casual? There’s a little bit of everything for everyone-- all within walking distance and/or on the route of downtown Springfield’s free public transport, The Loop.

QUICK, FAST & AFFORDABLE A hidden gem amongst downtown Springfield’s professionals, Cornerstone Café, located at One Monarch Place, Suite 100, is perfect for those on the run. With a variety of options available for both breakfast and lunch, the secret to Cornerstone’s success is the low prices and highquality food, as well as the charismatic charm of the staff and the café itself.

From the “Dilly Breakfast Sandwich” to the “Maryland Crab Cake Sandwich,” and the array of soups and salads in between; Cornerstone Café also offers “Build Your Own” options that all

56 | local f lavor feature

but guarantees one’s breakfast and lunch needs. But wait, there’s more, look for sweet treats? Check out the baked goods, parfaits and fruit cups Cornerstone has on display.

KEEPING IT CASUAL With an eclectic style and fully stocked bar, Plan B Burger Bar, located at 1000 W Columbus Ave., should be “Plan A” if you are looking for a casual night out with friends complete with a burger and a drink; not to mention a ton of alliteration. Plan B is known for their “Burgers, Beer and Bourbon,” and providing customers with an upgraded bar food experience. They boast a bevy of appetizers including American Nachos; but if you are looking for a twist on the classic chip and cheese combo, try their Blue Chips. The menu description speaks for itself, “fresh potato chips topped with tomatoes, warm blue cheese sauce, bacon, red onions and jalapeños.” Once your appetite has been piqued, the fun is just getting started. While there are non-“B” word foods available such as tacos, a variety of mac and cheeses, and “Big Plates” serving up the likes of NY Strips and Shepard’s Pie, it’s all about

the BURGER. With a total of thirteen different burgers listed on the menu, the possibilities don’t stop there. With countless customization options, no stone goes unturned. Now on to the sides, which includes seven different types of fries, most notably their Sriracha Curly Fries, among others. The drink menu is a whole different animal (I’m guessing preferably a cow). Beer and bourbon are the go-to choices, but their mixed cocktails are just as great. Additionally, for the foodies who suffer intolerances, several dishes have the option to be prepared Gluten Free, Vegetarian or Vegan and are denoted on the menu.

FAMILY FRIENDLY Red Rose Pizzeria, located at 1060 Main St., is synonymous with family.

Whether you are present for lunch or dinner, the restaurant is consistently filled with boisterous laughter and conversation shared over classic Italian cuisine. A family-run restaurant since 1963, the key to Red Rose’s success is its Italian roots and homey feel.

There are two sides of the restaurant, either of which to suit your dining needs—the main dining room and the bar area. Ironically, the bar is where

diners can enjoy a quiet and intimate evening of conversation over a glass or carafe of Red Rose’s house wines. If beer is more your speed, they have an assortment of bottled or draft beer as well. From start to finish, patrons will experience a culinary journey through Italy with timeless appetizers such as Bruschetta, the base of which is Red Rose’s signature house bread, to Caprese Salad and Zuppa di Clams.

As cliché as it may be, it would be remiss to skip all things pasta, and Red Rose has it covered from Tortellini Alfredo to Baked Manicotti and Ziti; but it’s the pizza that takes the pie.

Red Rose’s award-winning pizza dates to their original recipe and is still just as beloved. As classic as a pepperoni pizza may be, their gourmet toppings consist of Broccoli, Eggplant and Sliced Tomatoes, among others. Red Rose’s menu is also comprised of specialty pizzas such as the traditional Margherita and Primavera; as well as unorthodox specialties, such as Spicy Buffalo and Pulled Pork Barbeque pizza. Lastly, every trip is complete with dessert, and if deciding on which to choose is hard (Tiramisu, Tartufo and Cannoli, oh my!), imagine attempting to share.

Red Rose Pizzeria

Plan B Burger Bar

FEELING THE BLUES When you walk into Theodore’s Blues, Booze, and BBQ, located at 201 Worthington St., it’s almost like you’ve been transported to another time and place. Theodore’s has personality and a down-home atmosphere where on any given night you can jam to live music from local groups and/ or touring musicians. Let’s move on to the booze—which makes its way South with themed drinks like “Texas Tea”, “Derby Day Mint Julep” and “Bayou Punch”. Now the piece de resistance, the BBQ. You want wings, brisket, pulled pork or ribs—it’s all here and accounted for with a choice of sauces (Bourbon, Chipotle or Teriyaki, etc.) to boot. Want to balance your all meat diet with a side, choose from Theodore’s mac and cheese, potato salad, collard greens and corn bread with honey butter. Although it may be sacrilegious to go to a BBQ joint and not partake—Theodore’s services nonmeat and salad eaters as well, with dishes like the Black Bean Burger and Crawfish Popper Salad.

Student Prince Cafe and Fort Restaurant

local flavor feature | 57

Christmas by Candlelight 2018

November 30, December 1–2, 7–9, 14–16, 20–23 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village is an evening filled with New England holiday traditions, live musical performances, storytelling, sleigh rides, festive foods, a roaring bonfire, and strolls around the exquisitely decorated Village Common.

The North Pole Village returns this year where families will find Santa and his whimsical elves, a kids’ holiday craft workshop, and an expanded train display that includes a train set made famous by the 2015 hit movie “Joy.” Don’t miss the nightly tree lighting ceremony and splendid gingerbread house contest!

BUY EARLY & SAVE!

Don’t miss out! Buy your tickets today at osv.org/cbc

Old Sturbridge Inn and Reeder Family Lodges

Overnight Package

Package includes one night stay at the Old Sturbridge Inn & Reeder Family Lodges for two adults, as well as Christmas by Candlelight admission.

Packages start at $129 for Friday and Sunday nights and $143 for Saturday nights. Final room rate depends on room type booked. OSV Members receive a discount.

For reservations, call 508-347-5056.

The Fort’s “Famous Fried Camembert Cheese,” served with honey mustard which will prepare your palate for the courses to come. Last but certainly not least, dessert is a must; while the Apple Strudel may be the obvious choice, The Fort has an assortment of dessert options and the “Personal Flourless Chocolate Cake” featuring ganache, berries and whipped cream shouldn’t be missed.

INDIAN

Panjabi Tadka

Nadim’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Grill

INTERNATIONAL FARE GERMAN A Springfield staple since 1935, Student Prince Cafe and Fort Restaurant, located at 8 Fort St., is rich in history and tradition, not only epitomized by their food, but in the myriad of artifacts that adorn their walls. Come for the classic German dishes such as Spätzle, Schnitzels and Wursts, but stay for the selective eater in your life. Even if German isn’t your forte they serve simple dishes up with a twist...literally, as exemplified by their Fort Sliders, mini burgers served on pretzel buns with beer mustard. In addition, The Fort also offers a variety of seafood and meat options, including baked stuffed shrimp and braised lamb shanks that can be paired with a la carte sides such as honey glazed brussels sprouts, house made sauerkraut, or sweet & sour red cabbage, etc. Attention cheese lovers, a complementary appetizer is

60 | local flavor feature

From the moment you enter, Panjabi Tadka, located at 1688 Main St., transports patrons to India through their senses; the aromatic spices greet you as the music of India fills your ears; then your eyes find the sampling of art pieces decorating the walls.

Open for lunch and dinner, Panjabi is known for their numerous curry dishes such as Chicken, Lamb and Shrimp, etc. While dishes are usually served mild, diners can choose their spice level (medium, hot, or very hot). If the natural Indian spices weren’t enough, go a step further with Garlic Mirchi Naan, a type of bread infused with garlic and jalapeños. They also have an extensive list of vegetarian dishes that include the popular Vegetable Korma; and specialties dinners such as Lamb Biryani. Thirsty? Panjabi’s Masala Tea is highly recommended and freshly brewed and flavored with 7 aromatic herbs.

MEDITERRANEAN Nadim’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Grill, located at 1390 Main St., is a fix for all your Middle Eastern food needs. For the hummus lover in all of us, Nadim’s Hummachos is a popular choice and innovative take on the usual nacho appetizer. Per their menu description, this dish is served over their homemade pita chips and comprised of “Hummus, ground meat, onions, jalapeños, tomatoes, and feta cheese”.

For the main event, take your pick, a chicken or kibbe wrap with toum or tzatziki sauce, a kabob with your choice of marinated, charbroiled meat, or the Pan-Seared Chicken Breast paired with the signature Nadim’s Rice, are sure to stoke your taste buds. Open for both lunch and dinner, Nadim’s does a great job of modernizing Mediterranean cuisine and marrying the associated flavors.

Food. Family.

Frigo’s.

BY TIERA N. WRIGHT

SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN

Since 1950, Frigo’s Gourmet Foods has been a staple in Springfield serving up an array of family recipes that make their customers feel like they’re at home.

A five-time winner of The Republican Newspaper’s Reader Raves for Best Deli, Frigo’s encapsulates the art of the homemade meal for those who are on-the-go. Whether you need a quick bite for lunch or are unable to cook or contribute a dish for dinner; Frigo’s has you covered. As their website states, “come visit Frigo’s where we make old world traditions into today’s convenience.”

“Most [of the] food we sell [is] prepared [and] ready to take home and warm up,” says Joe Frigo, the third-generation owner and operator of Frigo’s Gourmet Foods. Having worked at the store for more than 35 years, Joe believes “the high quality of goods we use to prepare our dishes” and great customer service is the key

to their longevity and what separates them from the competition.

Originating from Dolo, Italy, the Frigo family has continually evolved their business while maintaining their integrity. Their start in Springfield began with Frigo brother, Amedeo, who moved to this area and began exclusively selling cheeses, which ultimately led to the inclusion of their meat shop and subsequent location in East Longmeadow in 2008.

Joe and Renso Frigo

Serving You Specialty Foods Since 1950

Gourmet Food l Sandwiches l Prepared Food l Deli l Famous Meatball Authentic Selection of Specialty Foods, Cheeses & Olive Oil “Walking rom Distance F Casino”

90 William St., Downtown Springfield 732-5428 l 159 Shaker Rd, East Longmeadow 525-9400 l www.frigofood.com

local flavor feature | 61

Above pictured left to right: Joe Frigo, and Renso Frigo and Amedeo Frigo.

62 | local flavor feature

Frigo’s Gourmet Foods is a natural extension of the Frigo family’s home, and they greet customers with their old-world charm and family history; whether it’s the photos and clippings of past and present generations adorning the walls, or in the food they prepare.

Renso Frigo, Joe’s father and second-generation owner and operator can still be found lending a hand around the store prepping and rolling Frigo’s signature Braciola. A retiree for more than 23 years, Renso is ingrained in the community, quick to offer culinary tips and lessons; and a frequent volunteer for the annual Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish’s Taste of Italy festival.

In addition to their extensive selection of prepared foods, salads, grinders and sandwiches; Frigo’s also specializes in and sells a “variety of imported cheeses and wines, along with gourmet gift baskets, and imported groceries,” says Joe. A few of Frigo’s signature dishes include Lobster Risotto, Shrimp Pasta Salad, Chicken Marsala, and Eggplant Towers. “We also make our own homemade Italian Sausage that is in our meat department along with Stuffed Roast, and High-Grade Beef,” Joe concluded.

Furthermore, Frigo’s can also help customers during the holiday season with anything from meal preparation to great gift ideas. Customers can choose from an assortment of gift baskets, available in-store and online, featuring a collection of wines and cheeses, imported pastas, meats, olive oils and more.

Additional, Frigo’s Gourmet Foods has catering services for any occasion.

From corporate events and staff meetings to birthday and graduation parties; Frigo’s can prepare anything from sandwich and dessert platters to multi-course meals.

Best summarized on their website and exemplified in their food daily, “taste is a matter of choice, but quality is a matter of fact at Frigo’s.”

Frigo’s Gourmet Foods is located at 90 William Street in Springfield. They also have a second location in East Longmeadow on 159 Shaker Road.

transportation WAYNE E. PHANEUF wphaneuf@repub.com When the first settlers came to Springfield the only roads were narrow Indian paths through the wilderness.

The first shipments of goods to the new settlement in 1636 were made up the Connecticut River. For the next 200 years, the river would be the chief highway of commerce.

But in 1839, the stern-wheeler, stagecoach and freight wagon were to become nearly obsolete - replaced by the “Iron Horse.”

In 1825, the state Legislature formed a committee to ascertain the practicality of building a canal from the port of Boston to the Connecticut River. The committee surveyed the route and reported back that construction of a canal was feasible.

Luckily, in their infinite wisdom, the legislators decided to do nothing.

Two years later, (1827) a board of commissioners was named to survey the Boston to Connecticut River tract for a railway line.

The commissioners examined two routes, one to the north through Northampton, and the other to the south, meeting the river at Springfield.

Springfield was finally chosen as the terminating point, and the slow backbreaking work of building a railroad began.

It wasn’t until 1839, in October, that the final link in the line from Springfield to Worcester was open.

The total cost of this stretch was about $2 million.

By 1842, the railroad extended through Springfield to the Hudson River.

During the early years, the eastto-west railroad handled freight destined for those directions and the steamboats of the Connecticut plied the north-south trade.

In 1844, a railroad linking Springfield with New Haven and New York was opened.

By the mid-1850’s, the railroads running through this city were carrying 650,000 passengers per year, and thousands of tons of freight.

The railroad continued to prosper here, making Chester W. Chapin (the man who donated “The Puritan” statue) Springfield’s richest citizen as president of the line.

In the 1920’s, Union Station was open and the railroad settled back for eons of prosperity.

However, the 1920’s were the storm before the lull, and rail traffic began to decline as the popularity of the auto increased.

Millions of dollars in state, federal and city money has been spent to rehab Union State and once again a new viable north-south rail line has increased passenger travel between Springfield and New Haven. The future looks good as vacationers and commuters are flocking to the new CTLine service.

getting around town feature | 63

around town GETTING

PVTA DOWNTOWN CIRCULATOR BUS

A NO FARE downtown electric Proterra no-emissions bus running each hour from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

PVTA DOWNTOWN CIRCULATOR BUS ROUTE

ROUTE DETAILS:

Union Station Worthington Street Bridge Street Harrison Avenue Court Square State/Chestnut Streets* Springfield Armory* Quadrangle* MGM Springfield Basketball Hall of Fame * - No evening service

VALLEYBIKE

14 bike share locations throughout downtown. 140 “electric-assist” smart bicycles with built in GPS technology.

Purchase your membership directly on the ValleyBike Share App and get immediate access to ValleyBike Share bikes.

1. REGISTER - Become a member and use the ValleyBike Share bikes regularly. Choose your membership type and enroll.

2. RENT A BIKE - Walk to a station, choose your ValleyBike Share bike, and unlock it with your membership card or the ValleyBike Share Mobile App. 3. PEDAL AND RIDE - As you enjoy your ride, use the convenient bike screen to keep an eye on your rental time. The secondary lock can be used on regular bike racks for any quick stops you need to make along the way.

4. RETURN YOUR BIKE - Choose any station and park your ValleyBike Share bike in the dock. When you see the “docked bike” indication appear on the bike screen or hear the return sound, you have properly returned your bike. ValleyBike Share bikes can also be returned even when docking stations are full.

STATION LOCATIONS: BAYSTATE HOSPITAL/COMMUTER PARK, BAYSTATE HOSPITAL/MAIN CAMPUS, KENEFICK PARK, LIVE WELL AT MERCY MEDICAL CENTER, CONGRESS STREET, UNION STATION, STEARNS SQUARE, STCC/SPRINGFIELD ARMORY, MASON SQUARE LIBRARY, PYNCHON PARK/ MUSEUMS, COURT SQUARE, MGM SPRINGFIELD, SOUTH END/MAIN STREET, BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME

64 | getting around town

VALLEYBIKE MAP

AMHERST

HOTEL UMASS

1 CAMPUS CENTER WAY, AMHERST, MA

(877) 822-2110

UNIVERSITY LODGE

345 NORTH PLEASANT STREET, AMHERST, MA

(413) 256-8111

CHICOPEE

TRU BY HILTON 440 MEMORIAL DRIVE, CHICOPEE, MA

(413) 331-5155

HAMPTON INN 600 MEMORIAL AVE, CHICOPEE, MA

(413) 593-1500

RESIDENCE INN MARRIOTT

500 MEMORIAL DRIVE, CHICOPEE, MA

(413) 331-4440

QUALITY INN 463 MEMORIAL DRIVE, CHICOPEE, MA

(413) 592-6171

ENFIELD, CT

HAMPTON INN BY HILTON 20 PHOENIX AVE. ENFIELD, CT 800-426-7866

HOLIDAY INN SPRINGFIELD ENFIELD

1 BRIGHT MEADOW BLVD. ENFIELD, CT 860-741-2211

HADLEY

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT 423 RUSSELL STREET, HADLEY, MA

(413) 362-8405

ECONO LODGE 329 RUSSELL STREET, HADLEY, MA

(413) 582-7077

HAMPTON INN BY HILTON 24 BAY ROAD, HADLEY, MA 413-586-4851

HOWARD JOHNSON HOTEL 401 RUSSELL STREET, HADLEY, MA

(413) 586-0114

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS 400 RUSSELL STREET, HADLEY, MA

(413) 582-0002

RODEWAY INN

237 RUSSELL STREET, HADLEY, MA 413-584-9816

HOLYOKE

FAIRFIELD MARRIOT INN & SUITES 229 WHITING FARMS ROAD, HOLYOKE, MA

(413) 533-2800

LUDLOW

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS 321 CENTER ST. LUDLOW, MA 413-589-9300

NORTHAMPTON QUALITY INN

117 CONZ STREET, NORTHAMPTON, MA

(413) 586-1500

SPRINGFIELD

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS SPRINGFIELD 145 STATE STREET SPRINGFIELD, MA PHONE: 413.285.8436

LA QUINTA BY WYNDHAM 100 CONGRESS STREET SPRINGFIELD, MA 413-781-0900

HAMPTON INN & SUITES 851 EAST COLUMBUS AVENUE SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 310-2300

SUFFIELD, CT

THE LILY HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST 13 BRIDGE STREET, SUFFIELD, CT

(860) 668-7931

WESTFIELD QUALITY INN

2 SOUTHAMPTON ROAD, WESTFIELD, MA

(413) 568-2821

WEST SPRINGFIELD CLARION HOTEL

1080 RIVERDALE STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 781-8750

BEST WESTERN INN 429 RIVERDALE STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 785-5365

CANDLEWOOD SUITES 572 RIVERDALE STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 739-1122

stay

PLACES TO

RESIDENCE INN

64 BORDER WAY, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 732-9543

QUALITY INN

1150 RIVERDALE STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 739-7261

REGENCY INN & SUITES 21 BALDWIN STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 781-2300

SUPER 8

1500 RIVERDALE STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 273-8316

HAMPTON INN

1011 RIVERDALE STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 732-1300

RED CARPET INN

560 RIVERDALE STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 733-6678

RED ROOF PLUS HOTEL 1254 RIVERDALE STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 731-1010

EXPRESS INN

1557 RIVERDALE STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 737-9047

ECONO LODGE

1533 ELM STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 734-8278

COMFORT INN & SUITES 106 CAPITOL DRIVE, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA

(413) 736-5000

places to stay | 65

TAKING THE TRAIN TO AND FROM SPRINGFIELD FROM CONNECTICUT HAS GOTTEN A LOT EASIER. CTrail’s Hartford Line began service on June 16 at Union Station with stops in Windsor Locks, Windsor, Hartford, Berlin, Meriden and Wallingford before reaching New Haven.

Between the new CTrail and Amtrak, trains will provide a total of 34 daily trips on weekdays, including 11 Springfield-toNew Haven and 12 New Haven-to-Springfield trips.

There will be 12 trips on Saturdays (eight each Springfield-toNew Haven and New Haven-to-Springfield), and 13 trips on Sundays and holidays (nine each Springfield-New Haven in both directions).

It’s Connecticut’s first new train service in more than 20 years.

CTrail will be just the first step in a planned future rail expansion involving Springfield’s Union Station.

66

Celebrating Celebrating Celebrating

Saturday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 2 at 7:30 Saturday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m. p.m.

Premier Premier Sponsor Sponsor Premier Sponsor Premier Sponsor With With Additional Additional Support Support From From With Additional Support From With Additional Support From

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Saturday, Saturday, February February 23 23 at at 7:30 7:30 p.m. p.m.

Italian Brahms Brahms Italian RACHEL BARTON PINE, VIOLIN RACHEL BARTON PINE, VIOLIN KEVIN RHODES, CONDUCTOR KEVIN KEVIN RHODES, RHODES, CONDUCTOR CONDUCTOR

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Premier Sponsor Premier Sponsor Premier Sponsor Sponsor Premier

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