Events in Amherst today

Jessy’s Fight marks its 7th Annual Golf Tournament at The Country Club of Wilbraham, bringing the community together for a day on the course while advancing a mission rooted in hope. The event supports Jessy’s Fight efforts to raise money for the D’Amour Center for Cancer Care within the Baystate Health Foundation and to create a fundraising gathering where people can set aside the worries that often accompany cancer. It is also held in loving memory of Sandra T. Cote, with memorial donations being accepted in her honor. The cause is inspired by Jessy’s journey, from receiving a cancerous brain tumor diagnosis at age 27 in 2017 to celebrating seven years cancer free. With the continued strength of family, including her husband Sully and their two daughters, and with ongoing routine scans, the focus remains on gratitude, resilience, and offering reassurance to others facing cancer.

RAD Springfield is a community bike shop focused on repair, donation, and access. Attendees can bring bikes for service or drop off donations, and technicians will refurbish them for resale or to return to neighbors who need reliable transportation. In many cases, residents receive bikes at no cost. Volunteers are welcome to learn repair skills or contribute their experience in a multicultural, all-ages, welcoming environment. This is a drop-in opportunity with no registration required.

Cookie Club is an eight-session afterschool baking program held in the full kitchen at the Florence Civic Center. Designed for ages 7 to 11, with opportunities for ages 12 and up to participate as CITs, it focuses on real technique and the science behind great cookies. Young bakers will measure, mix, cream, fold, and decorate while following a curriculum that blends chemistry, creativity, and flavor. Each meeting features a different cookie and a new skill, with from-scratch, teacher-led lessons that explain why cookies spread, why butter matters, and how ingredient changes affect results. Participants taste their work and bring some home after every session, and the $300 fee includes weekly take-home treats for the family.

Take part in a free, weekly yoga class for adults led by Brian Mulligan. The practice focuses on a gentle approach that prioritizes alignment, safety, and well-balanced sequences. Sessions typically take place in the Library Annex, with the first Monday of each month meeting instead in the library’s basement. This is a drop-in class, and participants should bring their own yoga mat. Brian is a certified 200-hour instructor trained through Kim Valerie’s Iyengar-based Yoga Spirits in Beverly, Massachusetts. He is also certified to teach chair yoga through Lakshmi Voelker’s Get Fit Where You Sit program, and Lakshmi has prepared more than 1,600 chair yoga teachers while teaching out of Kripalu.

At Karuna Center for Yoga & Healing Arts, a bi-weekly movement improvisation space that has been active for nearly two decades features curated soundscapes and electronic works by DJ Brando, at times accompanied by live music, cultivating an atmosphere of exploration and play. Drawing on Contact Improvisation, dance, and compositional practice, it weaves shared attention with individual choice. With light structure and a few tacit agreements, participants follow their own impulses while staying in relationship with the room. Through focused witnessing, composition arises organically, shaping an evolving practice grounded in presence, curiosity, and care.

Real estate professionals from the Greater Springfield area gather for an in-person coffee and collaboration session centered on open, roundtable conversation. Participants compare what is working and what is not in their businesses, discuss current market insights, and share practical takeaways with peers. Complimentary coffee, bagels, and light snacks are provided. The focus is on building community, exchanging ideas, and helping one another strengthen and grow real estate ventures.

Belchertown artist Gretchen Holesovsky leads a six-session intermediate watercolor series at The Mill District Local Art Gallery. Designed for mature learners, high school age and up, it welcomes those who completed her beginner course as well as artists looking to deepen their watercolor practice. Expect exploration of technique and style along with assignments between meetings. The first two classes focus on playful, freeform methods, the third introduces a surprise approach to still life, the fourth addresses working with black and white, and the final two shift to a traditional process with guidance on selecting a reference photo, considering composition and subject, transferring an image for those less confident in drawing, preparing paper, and making thoughtful color and application choices. Instruction for the full series is $180, and required supplies are approximately $130. Materials are not provided by the instructor. Participants must register before purchasing supplies, then bring them to the first session. Paint substitutions require prior approval from the instructor; if you already own most items, do not duplicate. Those interested in artist grade watercolor can email Gretchen at freshair55@verizon.net for a list. A split primary palette is encouraged, so if using your own paints, bring warm and cool versions of each primary color. Please also bring a small spray bottle, a cotton rag or Swedish cloth, an artist quality #2 drawing pencil, and 1 inch masking or painter’s tape. Full supply details and a materials link are available in the Eventbrite listing.

Jimmy presents a retrospective of the 1960s, featuring hits by The Beatles, Elvis, The Rolling Stones, and Motown icons. The music is paired with a turkey dinner and pays tribute to an era of peace, love, and rock and roll.

Learn to sew a small pumpkin-themed doll in a beginner-friendly workshop for adults and teens. Practice felting reclaimed wool sweaters, shaping a basic Waldorf-inspired head, and building confidence with essential hand-sewing stitches as you bring your creation to life. All necessary tools are provided, and the registration fee covers a complete materials kit.

Children who are passionate about animals can build real pet care skills through hands-on activities and time with live animal guests. This educational session at High Five Books offers close-up encounters with visiting animals while teaching everyday care for young participants.

Pick up organic frozen Maine wild blueberries from Burke Hill Farm at a designated pickup location. Pre-ordering is available or you can pay at pickup, and walk-up purchases from the delivery truck are offered. Each box contains 5 pounds and costs $35. Payment options include exact cash, check, credit or debit cards, Apple Pay, Android Pay, and Venmo. These berries are suitable for smoothies, baking, or snacking.

Youth ages 10 to 17 can help shape the library by participating in the Youth Advisory Board. Meeting regularly, the group focuses on improving the library experience, planning programs and events, recommending items for the collection, and sharing ideas that reflect what young patrons want to see.

An immersive evening of mediumship, table tipping, and tarot presented by The Medium and the Mystical Star. The experience begins at the table with a focused table tipping session, limited to six participants and separate from the VIP seance table. Those seats are chosen that night, and after this opening, the program continues for everyone as Karen and Irene offer messages through a blend of mediumship and tarot. Spirit medium Karen Tatro curates a traditional seance setting, calling for messages said to be from loved ones and spirit guides. The table is arranged with crystals, candles, and carefully selected herbs to shape the atmosphere. Dinner and VIP includes a seat at the main seance table with Karen for 99 dollars per person. General Admission is 85 dollars per person and includes dinner, with seating at small tables set with items and arranged around the main table. Reservation information will be shared.

Explore an inward path through a Yoga and Ayurveda program designed for those who want to deepen their relationship with body, breath, and inner awareness without pursuing teacher training. Rooted in yoga wisdom and gently guided by the lens of Ayurveda, it supports curious students and sensitive feelers who sense there is more beneath the surface and are ready to discover it. With a thoughtful blend of asana, breathwork, meditation, self-reflection, and seasonally informed Ayurvedic practices, participants work toward understanding their unique constitution and patterns while tuning into the quiet ways the body communicates. The experience invites a slower pace, attentive listening, and a reconnection to a natural rhythm.

The Deerfield Inn hosts an intimate seance dinner led by Karen Tatro, Certified Spirit Medium, with special guest Tarotist Irene Collins. The evening centers on mediumship, table tipping, and tarot, with messages intended to connect guests to loved ones and spirit guides. The experience begins around a prepared table set with crystals, candles, and carefully chosen herbs, and includes a main gallery during which Karen and Irene share insights using both mediumship and tarot. The dinner buffet highlights the inn’s culinary tradition with fresh rolls and whipped butter, coffee and assorted teas, a local greens salad with grape tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes finished with a cider vinaigrette, lemon rosemary statler chicken with jus, vegetable lasagna rolls with roasted vegetables, béchamel, marinara, and blended cheeses, and beef braised in red wine with carrots and mushrooms topped with frizzled leeks. Seasonal roasted root vegetables and roasted garlic herb potatoes are served alongside. Dessert features the Deerfield Inn’s molasses cornmeal pudding with vanilla ice cream. VIP admission is $99 per person and includes dinner plus a seat at the main seance table with Karen. General Admission is $85 per person and includes dinner with seating at smaller tables set with items and arranged around the main table. The Deerfield Inn has welcomed travelers since 1884 and is known for classic New England hospitality and cuisine. Karen’s background includes national television appearances and public events throughout notable historic and paranormal venues. Irene offers tarot, crystal, and charm readings through Eneri Insights, focusing on clarity and practical guidance. All ticket sales are final and cannot be refunded or transferred to other events. If the event is rescheduled, original tickets will be honored; those unable to attend may resell their tickets independently. This gathering is presented for exploration and entertainment, participation is voluntary, personal experiences may vary, and a reading is not guaranteed.

Settle into a soothing yoga experience focused on easing stress. You will move gently to release tension and reconnect with steady breathing, then shift into Yoga Nidra, a guided practice that fosters deep, restorative rest. Jolie leads the session. The cost is $20 for walk in participants and it is included with memberships.

DSP Shows presents Dogwood Tales at The Drake in Amherst, MA. The Harrisonburg, Virginia group features longtime friends Kyle Grim and Ben Ryan on guitars and vocals with Jake Golibart on drums and Danny Gibney on bass. Their forthcoming album, Every Star in Rockingham County, draws on Shenandoah Valley landscapes and small town life, from family stories and medical bills to the pull of the present. The sound mixes pedal steel shadings, close harmonies, punchy drumlines, melodic guitar figures, and touches of vintage video game ambience. Song titles such as Mt. Jackson, Princess Peach, McMemories, and Angel Dreams pair vivid, specific lyrics with an indie rock and lo-fi country flavor, nodding to classic American songwriters while exploring new territory. It is a portrait of four friends growing up in rural Virginia and navigating a digital age where loneliness can linger, carried by melodies that look up to the stars.

Hosted by Kade Parkin, this ongoing gathering brings together musicians and music lovers in a welcoming space inspired by the Grateful Dead community. Over the years, Kade has fostered a supportive scene where longtime Dead Heads and those new to the music can enjoy an uplifting atmosphere, connect with others, and dance.

Explore how to honor loved ones and look ahead with resilience in a hands-on ceramic workshop led by George Rodriguez. Across four full days, participants design and build a personal guardian figure that can embody protection, memory, or hope. Working from personal photos, writings, or sketches, attendees learn traditional slab construction and modeling to create and assemble a free-standing sculpture measuring roughly 16 to 20 inches tall. Instruction covers building hollow forms, adding distinctive textures and details, and developing individualized plans for successful construction. Alongside the main piece, participants make single-part plaster press molds to add ornamentation and enrich the surface. Teaching blends demonstrations, guided practice, and lecture. Light refreshments are available in the morning, and there is a lunch break each day. By the final session, everyone completes a greenware sculpture. Bisque firing is available at Easthampton Clay at no additional cost, with options to pick up the fired work or arrange professional packing and shipping. Glaze firing is not offered for non-Easthampton Clay members or students. George Rodriguez, raised in El Paso, Texas, creates richly ornamented ceramic works that often engage sociopolitical themes. His guardian figures, tomb sculptures, and installations foster remembrance and community. Recent projects include a permanent installation at the new Kansas City International Airport, a community tile mural at The Clay Studio in Philadelphia, and an outdoor public sculpture at CASA of Maryland in Baltimore. His work is held by the National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago, the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C., and the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm. He holds a BFA from the University of Texas at El Paso and an MFA from the University of Washington, and he is an assistant professor at the Tyler School of Art and Architecture in Philadelphia.

Imagine it, then build it with LEGO bricks at the Carnegie Library. This relaxed, drop-in activity invites children ages 6 to 11 to explore creativity with the library’s LEGO collection during open hours on Wednesdays. Public transit is available via FRTA Routes 22, 24, or 32 to the Food City stop, or Route 23 to the Ave A and 3rd Street stop. Accessibility features include one designated accessible parking space on the 7th Street side of the building, a wheelchair ramp accessed from that side with an automatic door at the top, and a restroom whose entrance is not ADA compliant. For accommodation requests or questions about physical access, contact library director Caitlin Kelley at librarydirector@montague-ma.gov or 413-863-3214 ext. 6 in advance.

Community Harvest Hours offers a welcoming space to connect with one another and the land. Participants harvest alongside a volunteer crew, get ideas for cooking with farm produce, share homegrown items, and talk with community members about caring for their own gardens. It is also an opportunity to see what is growing and to learn about the farm’s pick-your-own program.

Kids take a deep dive into the science behind big booms in a fire free, eight week club. Topics include volcanoes, the chemistry of fireworks, and more, all explored without flames.

Game Night at Great Awakening Brewing features a roomy taproom experience with plenty of craft beer on tap, fresh food, and a broad selection of games to enjoy. Set within Westfield’s historic Mill at Crane Pond in scenic Western Massachusetts, the brewery offers views of the Little River dam to take in between turns.

Explore Wistariahurst Museum by candlelight on a guided after dark tour through its corridors. A knowledgeable guide shares accounts of the Skinner family, including the tragedy that led them to relocate their home and business to Holyoke, along with other eerie episodes from the mansion’s history. The experience emphasizes the site’s haunted lore and the echoes of former residents and workers. Expect a route that involves standing and walking, with movement between the first and second floors via the Grand Staircase in dim lighting. This atmospheric visit offers a look at where local history meets the paranormal.

This book club focuses on queer romance. It meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Library Annex. An email list is available for updates and reminders at bookclubs@ewmlibrary.org.

Pioneer Valley Aquarium Society hosts an evening with Richard "Rit" Forcier, a renowned authority on livebearing fishes. With more than six decades of tropical fish keeping and a past home fishroom that ran 60 aquariums for over a decade, Rit brings deep, hands-on experience. He has presented to more than 36 aquarium clubs across the United States, Canada, England, Scotland, Mexico, and Holland, and helped shape the hobby as co-founder and first president of the Northeast Livebearers Association, as well as a leader within the American Livebearers Association. His contributions have been recognized with the Betty Meuller Honor from the Northeast Council of Aquarium Societies, the designation of Fellow of the American Livebearers Association, and the ALA Grand Master Breeder Award for successfully breeding 100 livebearer species. The program explores the history and diversity of livebearers, proven breeding approaches, and where the hobby is heading. Attendees can enjoy free pizza and drinks, followed by an auction with chances to bring home something special for their aquariums. This event is open to the public and welcomes both newcomers and seasoned keepers.

Writers Read is a monthly series that welcomes audiences to hear local voices in a close, welcoming setting. Each second Wednesday, three writers share selections from their work, followed by a conversation guided by Lindy Whiton that often sparks new insight and sends attendees home eager to write. This installment features Amy Gordon, Cheryl Dukes, and JuPong Lin. Gordon’s poetry has appeared in The Amsterdam Review, Ekphrastic Review, The Massachusetts Review, and other journals, and her chapbook Leaf Town won the Slate Roof Press Chapbook Prize. She lives in Gill and directs an after-school theater program. Dukes brings a curious, persistent, and playful voice that stares down mortality while choosing vibrancy, favors active language, laughs through the shushing, journeys to the far side of OtherWise, and treats love as something you do, with a jubilant woop woop. Lin is an independent artist, practice-led researcher, writer, and cultural worker whose interspecies and socially engaged projects honor beloved places and seed stories that move beyond a single worldview. A former Goddard College MFA faculty member for nearly two decades until the school’s closure in 2024, she holds a PhD in Environmental Studies from Antioch University New England and works as a narrative coach for public health organizations in Massachusetts. Her first play, Phoenix in the HolyLand, supports global peace efforts that confront ecocide and genocide, and her writing appears in Writing the Land anthologies as well as the collections Ecological and Social Healing: Multicultural Women’s Voices and Contemplative Practices and Acts of Resistance in Higher Education: Narratives Toward Wholeness. A suggested donation of 1 to 5 dollars helps support the series. This recurring program is updated each month.

Live music by John Manzi complements wine and Italian cuisine.

The Falltown String Band, regarded as local legends, performs live at the Voo on the second Wednesday of each month. This recurring midweek set brings live music from a beloved local group.

Take the mic for karaoke each Wednesday, hosted by DJ PRL, and sing to your heart's content.

Ferri Senior Care Consulting hosts an informational session for anyone exploring senior living for themselves or a loved one. The program outlines the types of senior living available and offers guidance to help determine which option may be the best match when a change in living situation is being considered. Please sign up ahead of time.

Enjoy a laid-back, family-friendly space to draw and express yourself while meeting others in the community. The focus is on creativity, connection, and a relaxed good time. Admission is free, and optional donations are appreciated.

Enjoy a casual gaming session at the library. Bring a device from home or use a library computer to play the games you like. Minecraft is available using a library account or your own. A limited number of computers will be assigned as participants arrive. No registration is needed, so feel free to drop in.

Responsible, creative, and caring kids can build real babysitting skills in an afterschool club inspired by the Babysitters Club books. Designed for ages 7 to 11, with opportunities for ages 12 and up to participate as CITs, the program blends reading, conversation, and practical activities that help young participants grow into confident and compassionate caregivers. It also celebrates three new releases from the series, including The Super Special Graphic Novel. Each registration includes a brand-new Babysitters Club book, and both longtime fans of Kristy, Claudia, Mary Anne, and friends as well as newcomers will find a welcoming way to step into their world.

A guided journey of breathwork and meditation invites participants to shed stuck energy, reconnect with inner knowing, and open the heart to growth. Through purposeful breathing, the body’s innate ability to let go, refresh, and expand is activated. The approach is soft yet potent, helping to settle the mind, support nervous system balance, and make room for new possibilities to emerge. The session then shifts into a replenishing meditation that weaves visualization, grounding practices, and affirmations to plant intentions. The inner landscape is tended like a garden so growth can unfold in its own time. This experience welcomes anyone seeking relief from stress, steadier emotions, clearer focus, a deeper connection to self and spiritual development, and a supportive place to rest, recharge, and reset. Guidance is provided by Nicole Keegan, owner of Dreki Soul, an Embodiment Healing Practitioner, Thai Yoga Practitioner, Reiki Master, Somatic Yoga and Breathwork Facilitator, and ordained High Priestess. Her path has moved from carrying trauma in the body and frequent triggering to embodying fierce feminine energy devoted to healing. Yoga became her bridge between mind, body, and soul, nurturing presence, mindfulness, and compassion in everyday life. As that connection deepened, meditation became more accessible, and she integrated ritual to support continued growth and healing.

Teen Open Studio is a relaxed, free series where teens ages 13 to 17 can socialize and create in a 13,000 square foot makerspace in Orange, MA. The focus is on a welcoming, inclusive, and sensitive environment that encourages playful exploration and the joy of making together. Each session spotlights a different shop or medium, inviting participants to discover what materials can do. Past and upcoming themes in the series include cyanotype printing on textiles, polymer clay creatures, spiked leather bracelets and chokers, bleach printing, and for October, ear and tail making. This program is supported by the Cultural Councils of Orange, Athol, New Salem, Petersham, Wendell, and Warwick, along with the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

A monthly one shot adventure takes place every third Thursday, with each session running about four hours. The next installment is designed for third level characters. Each month the level increases by one, so play can progress steadily from session to session. Participants may bring a new character each time or stick with the same adventurer all the way to level 20. Pre generated characters are available. Registration is by email and spots can fill quickly.

The Autumn meeting of the Agawam Historical Association features a talk by historical archaeologist Bob Drinkwater that looks at the makers behind the gravestones found in Agawam’s oldest burial grounds. Drawing on his recent book about western Massachusetts carvers active from the early 1700s to the mid 1800s, he will connect distinctive carving styles to specific artisans and highlight examples in Agawam’s historic cemeteries, where nearly five dozen Revolutionary War veterans are interred. Drinkwater holds an MA in anthropology from UMass Amherst and has spent more than four decades documenting, photographing, and reporting on eighteenth and early nineteenth century gravestones and the stonecutters of the Connecticut River Valley. As a charter member of the Association for Gravestone Studies, he has published scholarly articles, organized and presented at conferences, and served in leadership roles. The program is free and open to all. Venue: Captain Charles Leonard House.

An open stage night that expands on the classic open mic format, welcoming performances across theater, dance, music, literature, spoken word, storytelling, magic, puppetry, circus and sideshow, comedy, and improv. Any art or entertainment that can be presented onstage is invited, whether it is brand new or fully polished. The evening is hosted by Clara Witty, a resident of Orange, MA and the Programming Director of The LAVA Center. Her work includes projects such as indiVISIBLE, the On the Boards playwright festival, and the documentary film Rising River’s Edge, and she focuses on connecting community and the arts. Performer signups are available, with a five minute limit for each act. A house sound system is on hand for audio support, with connectivity via Bluetooth or a 1/8 inch mic jack input, and an adapter may be needed depending on your device. A suggested donation of $1 to $5 supports the event.

Bywater Call brings its blend of Southern soul and roots rock to The Iron Horse with an emotionally charged show defined by soaring vocals and tight, intuitive chemistry among the players. The Toronto-based seven-piece features Meghan Parnell on vocals, Dave Barnes on guitar, Bruce McCarthy on drums, Mike Meusel on bass, John Kervin on keys, Stephen Dyte on trumpet, and Julian Nalli on tenor sax. Their repertoire spans tender ballads and full-throttle anthems, exploring life’s highs and lows while drawing inspiration from artists such as The Band, The Wood Brothers, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Otis Redding, Little Feat, and Sly and the Family Stone. The group has earned recognition with a UK Blues Award nomination for International Blues Artist of the Year and a top 20 shortlist for the same honor alongside names like Larkin Poe, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Beth Hart, Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram, Samantha Fish, and Bobby Rush. Tickets start at $30, all fees included, and prices increase on the day of the event.

A classic bingo game led by an old, grumpy caller. It takes place at the Rendezvous in Turners Falls.

Villa Napoletana hosts an evening of wine, Italian cuisine, and a live set by Jeffrey Thomas. Photo credit to Jeffrey Thomas on Facebook.

The Come Again Players return to the Marigold Theater with a live shadow cast presentation of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. This screening pairs the film with onstage performers and invites plenty of audience participation. The event salutes the movie’s legacy and Tim Curry’s iconic role. Costumes are welcome, with fishnets among the favorites, and a newspaper is a classic prop. Crap Kits will be on hand. Cover is $20.

No Frills Karaoke offers a welcoming, nonjudgmental setting where everyone can relax, be themselves, and belt out favorite tunes. Whether you feel at home onstage or usually sing only in the shower, this gathering brings music lovers of all experience levels together to share songs, laughter, and good company. Expect a supportive atmosphere that encourages letting go of inhibitions, celebrating friends, and creating memories through spirited performances and shared camaraderie.

Part of Quabbin Harvest’s tiny co op concerts, this performance showcases singer and guitarist Josh LeVangie and his love of classic country. He draws on songs made famous by Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, and others, delivering them with a warm, resonant baritone. With more than two decades onstage, he brings seasoned musicianship and a timeless country sound.

Local singer songwriters share their original music in a free showcase hosted by John Prout. The list of artists will be announced. Enjoy a beer and something to eat while you listen to the performances.

A free weekly yoga class for adults led by Brian Mulligan invites participants to explore a gentle practice with careful attention to alignment, safety, and overall balance. This drop-in session takes place at the Library Annex, and participants are asked to bring their own yoga mat. Brian is a 200-hour certified yoga instructor trained through Kim Valerie’s Iyengar-based Yoga Spirits, and he is also certified in chair yoga through Lakshmi Voelker’s Get Fit Where You Sit program. Lakshmi Voelker has trained more than 1,600 chair yoga instructors and teaches from Kripalu. The schedule may change, so please check the library website for the most up-to-date time and location information.

Enjoy a calm community gathering with tea and light nourishment, where you can read, journal, share quiet conversation, or simply rest. This is a place to slow down, sit with your own energy, and reflect in peace. Two candles are available for anyone who feels called to set an intention or let something go, with no pressure to take part. Once each month the circle shifts into The Monthly Reset Ritual with Amanda, inviting deeper reflection and renewal in the same caring space. Entry is included with memberships and packs, and walk-ins are $10.

The Iron Horse in Northampton, MA hosts a concert with Mark Erelli, an American singer, songwriter, producer, and guitarist whose work spans rock, folk, and Americana. Known for thoughtful lyrics and layered arrangements that nod to classic rock, he has collaborated with Rosanne Cash, Sheryl Crow, and Anaïs Mitchell, has opened shows for Marc Cohn, Watchhouse, and Josh Ritter, released fourteen solo albums alongside three with his bluegrass group Barnstar!, and produced two albums for GRAMMY winner Lori McKenna. Tickets start at $30 with fees included, and prices rise on the day of the event. A pre-show bar and event queue will be available.

New Music Alliance and Bigger Beast Records host The Spark Sessions at Bright Ideas Brewing Westfield with a set of original music from nationally touring artist Vance Gilbert. Richmond Magazine has likened his artistry to a blend of Joni Mitchell and Richie Havens with a comic edge reminiscent of Rodney Dangerfield. The performance unfolds in the BackLight Listening Room, a comfortable, up close space set apart from the main brewery for a focused listening experience. Award winning craft beer from Bright Ideas and Chappy's local fare are just down the hall. Tickets cost $20.

The Weight Band revives the timeless music of The Band with a high-energy program of classic Americana that blends roadhouse rock, swamp pop rhythms, blues, country soul, and folk. Led by guitarist Jim Weider, the lineup includes keyboardist Brian Mitchell, bassist Albert Rogers, drummer Michael Bram, and keyboardist Matt Zeiner, musicians whose backgrounds include The Band, Levon Helm’s Midnight Ramble Band, the Jim Weider Band, Jimmy Vivino, Jason Mraz, and Dickey Betts. United by what Weider calls the Woodstock Sound, this veteran quintet keeps that tradition alive with soulful performances and rich musicianship. Their work Shines Like Gold offers a vivid showcase of these seasoned roots artists at their best.

Always Now offers a cinematic, layered take on folk rock shaped by commanding musicianship, rich three-part vocals, and lyrical storytelling. This progressive folk-rock trio explores themes of time, love, connection, and the practice of being present, creating performances that feel both intimate and electrifying with a resonant, lasting impact. Listeners may catch hints of Crosby, Stills & Nash in the vocal blend, Joni Mitchell in reflective moments, Fleetwood Mac in emotional drive, the Indigo Girls in candid truth-telling, and Steely Dan in adventurous guitar work, yet the sound remains uniquely their own. The music moves from delicate to powerful, thoughtful to vibrant, and aims not just to entertain but to stir, connect, and bring attention to the moment at hand.

Experience a candlelit tribute to Adele at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, where a live, multi-sensory atmosphere sets the tone for an evening of her most beloved songs. The Listeso String Quartet will perform selections including Hello, Rumour Has It, Make You Feel My Love, Water Under the Bridge, Oh My God, Someone Like You, Send My Love, Chasing Pavements, Skyfall, When We Were Young, Set Fire to the Rain, Easy On Me, and Rolling in the Deep. Seating is assigned on a first come, first served basis within each zone, and Zone C offers ADA accessible seats. Attendees must be at least 8 years old, and guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. This is a tribute concert and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the artist, their estate, or official representatives.

Step up to the mic for an evening of karaoke. Perform songs, support other singers, and enjoy a music-filled night.

Celebrating 50 years, the club’s breed specialty show takes place at the Big E in West Springfield, Massachusetts. This focused event highlights a single breed in a dedicated showcase.

The market is back with a lively opening day that celebrates local agriculture. Explore offerings from familiar vendors, pick up favorite foods, and meet the people who grow and make them. Much of the selection comes from nearby farms within about 20 miles. Families can enjoy kid friendly activities, and shoppers will find customer incentives. Live music adds a festive soundtrack so grocery shopping comes with a show.

Set in downtown Turners Falls, Massachusetts, the Great Falls Farmers Market provides a central spot for the community. Shoppers using SNAP and HIP benefits are welcome, with both forms of payment accepted at the market.

Athol Public Library and Hero Shack Press are teaming up for the fifth annual celebration of comics at Athol Town Hall. The venue becomes a lively hub for enthusiasts with comics, live drawing demonstrations, author question and answer sessions, games, vendors, a cosplay contest, free activities, and crafts, offering something for every age group. Admission is free for all ages. The full 2026 schedule will be shared soon. Cosplay contestants can sign up during the registration window before the competition, and cash prizes are offered.

The Hampden County Beekeepers Association presents a seminar on beekeeping at A.W. Brown's Pet & Garden. It offers an opportunity to learn more about beekeeping from the association in an educational setting.

The Zombie Hideout TCG & Sports Card Show brings a Halloween-season vibe to a full day of collecting. Explore vendors offering Pokémon, sports cards, Magic: The Gathering, comics, toys, sealed products, singles, and other collectibles. Buyers, sellers, and traders can connect, expand collections, and hunt for grails throughout the show. Vendor tables are available for $25 per 6-foot table, with limited availability.

Harpist Melinda Georgeson presents an hour of music, offering a varied set designed to bring joy to listeners. A Millers Falls resident, she became a harpist in retirement and enjoys sharing her music with others.

Glendale Ridge Vineyard hosts a pop-up Pilates class led by master instructor Ana Caban. A second-generation teacher who trained under Romana Kryzanowska, Joseph Pilates’ longtime student and protégé, Caban brings more than three decades of experience in Pilates, fitness, and wellness. Her background includes years as a Master Instructor for Peak Pilates, serving as a Brand Ambassador for Contrology by Balanced Body, creating and appearing in Pilates programs with Gaiam, and developing digital wellness offerings with DailyOM. After years in Los Angeles, she has returned to Western Massachusetts, where she grew up, and teaches at EmbodyMind Wellness. Her approach blends precise, intelligent technique with a joyful spirit, grounded in a belief in the healing power of movement and the community it fosters. After the class, participants can enjoy a glass of wine and brunch with the Peckish Food Truck.

Experience a 5Rhythms Waves class in a new Greenfield studio while keeping the familiar class flow. Guided by the maps of 5Rhythms, the session offers instruction and simple exercises that invite you into a movement practice with no set choreography. Rooted in the work of Gabrielle Roth, this approach welcomes every body and explores the five rhythms of flowing, staccato, chaos, lyrical, and stillness, not to perfect them but to receive what each has to offer. Expect time to arrive in your body and move on your own, along with musical guidance and occasional verbal cues. You may be invited to deepen a solo dance, connect with a partner for a short or longer exchange, or move with the whole room. Each class is different because you, the group, and the teacher bring something new every time, and the rhythms open many movement landscapes. To support dancers with scent sensitivities, please come fragrance free by avoiding scented detergents, perfumes, lotions, and essential oils as much as possible. Touch, courtesy, and consent are central to the space. Make eye contact before initiating any physical contact. Some dancers may be in a deep personal process or moving with eyes partially or fully closed, so use visual connection first. If you do not wish to be touched, clearly signal with a simple gesture such as a small bow with hands together, crossing your arms, or stepping away. All are welcome across race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, body type, language, and age. The space is intended to be accessible to all bodies. With respect, the gathering acknowledges the lands of the Nipmuc, Pocumtuc, and Nonotuc peoples. The Native settlement at what is now Northampton was known as Norwottuck or Nonotuck, meaning the midst of the river. Advance payment is $18 via Venmo at @Jilsarah-Moscowitz. A sliding scale of $20 to $25 is suggested, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

This fall celebration pairs a community festival with the Round House Rally car show, benefiting LifePath Meals On Wheels. Attendees can explore food trucks and booths, view classic cars, and sample entries from a barbecue competition. Beer and wine are available. Families can enjoy kids games, a large craft fair, the Spooky Round House for all ages, and live music throughout the day. Admission is free, with a suggested $5 parking donation. Applications are open for food, craft, and community vendors.

The 3rd Annual Furry Friends Fashion Fundraiser returns, hosted by L & M Creations and benefiting Wolfie’s Legacy Memorial. This warmhearted gathering celebrates pets while raising funds for back meadow fencing, a reflection patio, completion of the memorial walkway, and a permanent hard‑top gazebo over the Rainbow Bridge. The program includes a playful runway fashion show for dogs, where every style is welcome, from costumed looks to simple, confident struts. A bustling marketplace features vendors and crafters offering dog clothes, treats, collars, harnesses, toys, and pet portraits, along with jewelry, candles, crafts, art, and holiday gifts. Vendor tables are $15, and nonprofit organizations may participate at no cost. The event invites shelters and rescues to showcase adoptable dogs on the runway and share information about adoptable cats to support adoptions. Tickets are $10, with every ticket helping fund the memorial improvements.

At Dreki Soul, a Samhain-themed faire invites attendees to honor the changing season, pay respect to ancestors, and explore the mysteries of magic. Browse local vendors, meet others in the community, experience wellness sessions and intuitive readings, and create a seasonal keepsake as part of the gathering. The creation station offers a Samhain craft for a $15 fee. Healing and divination options include Reiki, sound healing, massage, scalp massage, tarot, oracle, runes, and more, with pricing set by each practitioner. Festive attire is welcome, whether a favorite costume, witchy outfit, a spooky look, or any style that feels magical. A raffle provides chances to win Dreki Soul prizes, including free merchandise and a free month of classes. Admission is free.

North Breed Auto Club and Team Zolo present Blast From the Past Car Show 2026, a nostalgic showcase for car and bike enthusiasts focused on classic vibes and lasting memories. Vehicle entry is $20 for cars and $10 for bikes, and spectators are welcome at no cost. Awards include Top 40 Cars, Top 5 Bikes, AC of the Day, MC of the Day, Best Female, Under Construction, and Car of the Day. Additional specialty categories are available for an extra $5, featuring Best Classic, Best Music judged by meter, 2 Step, and Best Wrap. The fun continues with friendly contests such as team tug of war, a team sack race, and a food eating competition. Vendors, food, raffles, and more complete the experience.

Celebrate character building and stage presence at a cosplay competition that spotlights creativity, craftsmanship, and accuracy. Participants will compete for honors that include Best in Show, Creativity, Craftsmanship, Accuracy, and Best Presentation or Performance, with cash prizes selected by a panel of Comic Book Fest judges. Each person may enter only one costume, and preference is given to builds created at home. Professional commission-based costumers are invited to showcase their work at Comic Book Fest but should not enter the competition. Costumes that include nudity, obscene or graphic elements, or anything not in keeping with the spirit of the event will lead to disqualification. Judging focuses on resemblance to the character, the quality of construction, creative choices, presentation to the audience, and how well the costume is represented. Registration is free at the Comic Book Fest entry table inside Athol Town Hall and requires a name, age, character title, and franchise, along with a quick photo at sign-up. During the contest, each entrant will cross the stage, pause for a pose, and answer one or two brief questions from the MC about the character or the costume. To remain eligible for prizes, contestants are expected to present a new cosplay each year.

Enjoy dinner with desserts and chances to win in raffles. Cost is $15 for adults and $10 for kids.

Lost Towns Brewing hosts a Saturday music feature showcasing a live performance by RAMSHACKLE.

Enjoy a comforting community meal with dine-in seating or convenient curbside pickup. Choose pork with gravy or a vegetarian sausage entrée, and every plate comes with mashed potatoes, butternut squash, applesauce, a roll with butter, and apple crisp for dessert. Each dinner is $20. More details and online ordering are available.

Kick off the weekend with an evening of music as The Storytellers perform at Mario's Cafe Ambiance.

An evening created for moms and sons ages 3 and up at Pioneer Valley Christian Academy features active games, creative projects, and sweet treats. Pair up for dodgeball and basketball, paint matching portraits, and enjoy face painting. Everyone comes together for a build-your-own ice cream sundae bar, then heads to the gym for an energetic round of Just Dance, followed by a family-friendly movie to wind down. Admission is $25 for one mom and one son, with each additional son $5. Registration is managed by Pioneer Valley Christian Academy, and payments are processed at 413-782-8031. Current PVCA families may register through ParentSquare.

Savor fine wines and Italian dishes while Marco Turo performs live. Photo courtesy of Marco's Facebook page.

CitySpace presents a showcase of ballroom culture hosted by London Saint Chanel. The program highlights the Maison of Saint Morta, a Springfield, Massachusetts ballroom house led by House Head London Saint, featuring dance, runway and performance that elevates visionary artists who are innovative, stylish, graceful and grounded in faith as they shape the future of culture. Admission is limited to ages 18 and up. Support for the Pay it Forward program is provided by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, Massachusetts Cultural Council, Greenfield Savings Bank, Greenfield Northampton Cooperative Bank, Never Give Up, Tom Schiff Consulting, Tandem Bagel Company, and Waugh Agency Insurance.