This weekend in Palmer, MA

The Friends of Fannie Stebbins and the Allen Bird Club come together for a welcoming, community-centered day focused on birds and learning. The program features a guided bird walk led by Allen Bird Club president Vince Yurkunas that meets at the West/Birnie Road lot. An informal information session follows at the Longmeadow Riverfront Conservation Area, offering a chance to connect with supporters and neighbors of the refuge. Next is a birds of prey presentation with Tom Ricardi, including opportunities to meet several of his ambassador birds. The day wraps up with a trail walk hosted by the Friends, meeting again at the West/Birnie Road lot.

WriteAngles, a Straw Dog Writers Guild conference at Bay Path University, brings together authors, poets, and publishers for what is billed as Massachusetts' longest running writers workshop. The program offers in-person and online meetings with agents, panels focused on publication and promotion, and a wide range of craft workshops on topics such as memoir, poetry, publishing, and ghost stories. The keynote address is by Essie Chambers. Expect a full day of learning, opportunities to connect, and time devoted to writing.

The Greater Springfield Out of the Darkness Community Walk brings people together to support one another, honor loved ones, and spark open conversations about mental health and suicide prevention. As part of AFSP's nationwide Community Walks, the core of the Out of the Darkness movement launched in 2004, friends, family members, neighbors, and coworkers walk side by side to share their personal connections to the cause and help build a culture that is smarter about mental health.

THE 413 CARD SHOW brings its Fall Spectacular back to Western Massachusetts at The Eastern States Exposition, home of The Big E. Explore more than 200 tables featuring sports cards, memorabilia, Pokemon and other trading card games, plus supplies and grading services. Admission is $5, and children 12 and under get in free. Door prizes are given out every hour, and autograph guests will be announced.

Capture the season with quick fall photo sessions available at Forest Park Aquatic Gardens, East Granby Farms, and Mitteneague Park. Each session is 20 minutes for $275 and includes all edited images delivered as a digital download with full print rights. Dogs are welcome.

Presented by Captains Corner and Zombie Hideout, this gathering at Zombie Hideout brings wrestling fans and collectors together for a day of activities. Look for more than ten special guests and over twenty vendors, with free admission for everyone. Expect a wide mix of autographs, memorabilia, toys, cards, comics, and a friendly setting for fans of all ages. The lineup announced so far features WWE Hall of Famer Tito Santana, TNA Hall of Famer Gail Kim, ring announcer Lilian Garcia, Santino Marella, a reunion of the WWF’s Young Stallions, a rare appearance by Heidenreich, Dangerous Danny Davis, New England rising star Paris Van Dale, and Mario Mancini.

The 3rd Annual Angela Santiago Motorcycle Ride brings a full day of bikes, music, food, and family fun to View Street Tavern in Chicopee. Enjoy live entertainment with DJ Seamus and a set from The BoneYard, explore local vendors, let the kids take part in activities, and try your luck with a 50/50 and raffle prizes. Visit the swag tent to pick up official ASF gear. Admission is $20 per person for riders and non-riders, with tickets sold at the door, and one price covers the entire day. The event honors Angela’s legacy and supports children in the local community through a shared spirit of kindness and togetherness.

A free in-store craft session where participants use chenille stems to create a plush spider or a ghost through a simple, hands-on activity.

Guided by guild member Maggie Hart, this Botanical Mandala Art Workshop takes place at Massasoit Art Guild in East Brookfield, MA. Participants create mandala artwork with botanical themes and receive instruction throughout the session.

This hands-on class at UNO Pizzeria and Grill focuses on Chicago-style deep dish pizza. With guidance from expert chefs, participants learn how to form the crust, assemble toppings in the right order, and bake the pizza from start to finish. The format welcomes every skill level, from beginners to seasoned home cooks. Each ticket includes step-by-step instruction, lunch with a salad and a beverage, plus unlimited soft drinks.

Enjoy the Town of Oxford’s sixth annual Scarecrows on the Common, featuring live music by DW and the ShakeMakers and a spirited appearance by the Dancing Witches of Sutton. Families can explore kids games, hands-on crafts, snacks, and a variety of vendors. The festivities conclude with a costume parade for children, creating a friendly community celebration.

Enjoy a pet-friendly Halloween celebration where costumes are encouraged. This annual party offers a simple, fun outing for pets and their people.

A family-friendly Trunk or Treat at Faith Community Chapel, A Church of the Nazarene features a crafting station, face painting, children’s activities and games, lively music, and free hot dogs. It offers a playful outing for kids and families.

Experience a 45-minute gallery conversation led by museum educator Emma Bresnan that deepens engagement with the exhibition Slavery and Freedom in Northampton, 1654-1783. The talk focuses on the individuals featured in the galleries, explains how slavery functioned in New England, and shares the research behind what is known about slavery in Northampton. Admission is pay what you wish and no registration is required. Sessions take place on several dates in the coming weeks.

Somers Congregational Church is hosting a Halloween Trunk or Treat with free, family-friendly activities. Children can collect treats and enjoy games, and costumes are welcome. For questions, please contact the church office at 860-763-4021.

Celebrate the Halloween season with a costumed stroll along Cottage Street. Arrive in your most witchy, magical, or wicked-themed attire to embrace the mystery and charm of the spooky season. Meet at the pond to gather before setting off.

Jediah takes the stage at The Mill for a high-energy live set that aims to keep the crowd going from start to finish. Plan to arrive early and stay through the end to make the most of the experience.

Heather Maloney brings a two-night run to The Iron Horse, sharing an intimate concert shaped by her meditative songwriting roots. The Massachusetts-based, self-described “writer song-singer” draws on years of quiet practice and on storytellers like Joni Mitchell, Rainer Maria Rilke, Ken Burns, and the anonymous voices behind Zen parables. A pre-show bar and event queue are planned, with doors opening before the performance. Her catalog spans eight studio albums and more than a thousand shows, culminating in her most personal record, Exploding Star, written after her father’s passing and marked by sessions in her empty childhood home, performances on his guitar, production from Don Mitchell of Darlingside, and arrangements by Isabella DeHerdt and Isaac Eliot of High Tea. Previous highlights include Soil In The Sky with appearances by Taylor Goldsmith, Rachael Price, and Jay Ungar, the Bill Reynolds–produced Making Me Break, and a collaborative release with Darlingside. Her songs have aired on NPR stations and on programs like eTown and AudioTree, featured in the CBS series Elementary, and reached wide audiences through editorial streaming playlists and Starbucks’ in-store rotations. She is also an illustrator and linocut artist, creating visual works that reflect her songs. Tickets start at $42 and include all fees.

Cécilia brings traditional Celtic and Quebecois music to life with a spirited sound that energizes the room. The trio of Timi Turmel, Erin Leahy, and Louis Schryer, widely regarded among Canada’s finest, clearly relish playing together, and that chemistry is evident throughout. Grounded in heritage yet refreshingly modern, their repertoire is carefully arranged and colored by contemporary, classical, jazz, and swing influences. Their debut album, Accent, showcases vibrant rhythms and melodies with warmth and expressive richness. In performance, accordion, piano, and violin intertwine to create an exuberant experience that lingers long after the last note. Card to Culture is honored, and student tickets are offered.

At The Hidden Temple in Florence, this experiential workshop centers on heart resonance and co-regulation, inviting a shared field of heart-centered awareness and an embodied sense of belonging. It offers a gentle space to slow down, regulate the nervous system, and reconnect with your whole self. The session is led by Brynn Bishop, a trauma-informed intimacy coach and tantra educator who draws on more than four decades of study, practice, and facilitation. Her integrative approach weaves somatic psychology and secure attachment rewiring with Buddhist, Taoist, and Tantric perspectives. She will also share fresh insights following training in Collective Heart Yoga in France. This is a non sexual, consent based gathering designed for mindful, deeply restorative connection with self, Source, and community. People of all genders, orientations, relationship configurations, and levels of experience are welcome. You can attend on your own or with a friend or partner, with an emphasis on genuine community building. Participants from previous workshops describe feeling more connected to themselves and more at ease with others, experiencing meaningful ritual, discovering empowerment through present-moment connection, and recognizing how clear intention can positively influence their world. The skills explored here are intended to ripple into daily life, enriching relationships, parenting, work, spiritual practice, health, and overall well-being. This offering is part of a monthly drop-in series focused on tantra and nervous system regulation. Each gathering stands on its own while also building on practices from earlier sessions, blending tantra, somatic attunement, authentic relating, and nervous system awareness to support embodied presence and authentic aliveness. Pricing includes early bird and standard options, with amounts ranging from $30 to $60.

Experience live music by Marco Turo while savoring wine and Italian cuisine. Photo credit to Marco’s Facebook page.

Jami D leads a 10-piece tribute show honoring the music of Bob Dylan. Jami Delia first met Dylan as a child on the lawn of the original Woodstock Playhouse, grew up in Woodstock, and now calls Western Massachusetts home, and that lifelong connection informs this production. The performance spans Dylan’s songs from the 1960s through contemporary interpretations tied to artists such as Chrissie Hynde, Marcus King, and Miley Cyrus. Guest appearances include Peter Newland of FAT, Paul Dawiki of the Blushing Brides, Janet Ryan of Janet Ryan and Straight Up, and Mark Downie of Retro Floyd. An additional guest musician is featured as well. A Woodstock inspired atmosphere sets the tone, and tie dye, headbands, and bell bottoms are welcome.

An annual Halloween celebration returns to PJ’s Town Crier, highlighted by a costume contest. Attendees can show off creative outfits and enjoy a spooky, festive atmosphere.

Jukebox Renegades return to Se7ens Sports Bar & Grill in Easthampton with the full band for a late-night set of rock, classic rock, and dance-floor staples. With only two appearances remaining, this stop promises a high-energy mix built for a night out, plenty of time on the dance floor, and a turn-it-up vibe that keeps the party going.

Enjoy a foliage walk featuring sweeping views of the valley to the west. The route covers approximately two and a half miles with both uphill and downhill sections. Meet at the rear of Somers Town Hall to carpool to the site. On clear days, the lookout can reveal a broad panorama across the Connecticut River Valley that may include the Hartford skyline to the south, the Hanging Hills near Meriden, the Hublein Tower on the southwestern horizon, the Silo Nursery in Somers during the day, distant Mount Greylock beyond Springfield, and farther north the outlines of Mt. Tom and the Holyoke Range with the long buildings of Westover Airforce Base in front, plus far-off Vermont peaks on the horizon. Along an old tote road near the viewpoint, a massive boulder supports a living patchwork of small birches, grasses, sparse flowers, blackberry vines, poison ivy, and ferns, with a nearby oak gripping its side. Two clusters of unexplained pits sit close to the overlook, one across from the boulder and another along the yellow trail through a hemlock grove to the northeast, and their origin remains a mystery. For questions, contact Albert Grant at 860-623-5487 or albert_grant@sbcglobal.net.

Hosted by the APDA Massachusetts Chapter at the Springfield Jewish Community Center in Springfield, this free resource day welcomes people living with Parkinson’s, along with care partners, family members, and friends. Designed for every stage of the Parkinson’s journey, the gathering focuses on connection, learning, and access to tools that support daily life. Participants can speak with local specialists, discover community programs and services, take part in educational offerings, try movement-based activities, and see wellness demonstrations. There will be time to ask questions, explore available support, meet others in the Parkinson’s community, and enjoy meaningful social interaction in a supportive, welcoming environment.

Brunch at Villa features classic breakfast dishes, Italian favorites, and a variety of hot entrees. Admission is $23.95 for adults and $11.95 for children 12 and under.

DCR celebrates Archaeology Month at Winsor Dam in Belchertown with a welcoming exploration of the Quabbin Reservoir’s past and the cultures connected to it. Learn about seasonal cycles from an Indigenous perspective, traditional fishing methods along the Swift River, and the history of the reservoir. Try archaeological screening and take part in additional activities. All ages are welcome. This event is free and open to the public, with no registration required. Activities will be set up by the Quabbin Visitor Center parking lot. In case of inclement weather, activities will move inside the Visitor Center.

A relaxed Cars & Coffee gathering at Wilson Performance Shop celebrates all things automotive. Participants can bring classics, works in progress, or their favorite daily drivers. Try for a fast lap on the Dirt Rally racing simulator. Complimentary coffee will be available. Attendees are asked to be considerate of the property and neighbors by avoiding loud revving and burnouts.

Families can celebrate the season at this annual Fall Fest with activities for all ages. Enjoy a pool-based pumpkin patch, an instructional pickleball session for every age and skill level, face painting, a bounce house, a gaga pit, lawn games, and a game room. Prizes, giveaways, and discounts on membership are planned, and a community bike tune-up is available. Drinks from Sokol Coffee and kosher food from Ladle & Loaf will be sold separately. The event is open to the public. Advance family pricing is $15 for JCC members and $25 for the general public, and admission covers activities except refreshments. Walk-in rates are $20 per family for members and $30 per family for the general public. New members who sign up at the event can receive the member ticket rate, and the $60 join fee will be waived.

Halloween fun arrives with a first come, first served flash event. Kailey will start a sign-up sheet for the first 15 participants, since this is her first flash event. After those initial spots, the remaining lineup will move in arrival order. Browse shelves from local vendors, enjoy light refreshments, and check out plenty of flash to choose from.

Now in its third year, this trunk or treat offers Halloween fun for Westfield families, with participation from local small businesses and families. Activities include trunk or treating and a cheerful photo spot, plus contests for best kids costume, best pet costume, and best trunk. Leashed pets are welcome. Parking is available on site and across the street at Salt City. Attendees should follow parking entrance signage and use the escorted crossing at the main entrance. All trunks must be preregistered.

Amherst Recreation presents a family-friendly Halloween Spooktacular filled with festive fun. The day starts with downtown trick-or-treating in collaboration with the Amherst Business Improvement District, with participating shops marked by window flyers. Free paper treat bags and a list of participating locations can be picked up at the Amherst Visitor Information Center or the Amherst Recreation office in the Bangs Community Center. Costumed participants of all ages are then invited to gather on the North Common for a parade. Afterward, the celebration continues on the North Common with Halloween-themed activities that include character encounters, a kids’ carnival, a photo booth, and not-so-scary story time with the Jones Library. Activities are weather dependent. The event is hosted by Amherst Recreation in partnership with the Jones Library and the Amherst Business Improvement District, with support from sponsors including Miss Saigon as lead sponsor, Amherst Innovative Living, Encharter Insurance, Atkins Farms Country Market, Crazy Noodles, and Sandy’s Barber Shop.

This free in-store event offers a quick costume demo with simple, time-saving tips for creating a last-minute Halloween look. Discover easy techniques and practical shortcuts to pull a costume together fast, perfect for anyone who needs a costume on short notice.

Butch Patrick, known as Eddie Munster from the classic TV series The Munsters, will appear at Zombie Hideout for a special meet and greet. An autograph and photo op combo is available for $40. Sales take place on site the day of the event only, with no advance sales or pre-sales.

Guided by Jon Orsini, this somatic breathwork session centers on sustained, intentional breathing with music to help release accumulated stress, tension, anxiety, and stagnant energy. Through this steady practice, the body is given space to surface and let go of ingrained patterns, creating room for new ways of being. It goes beyond simple relaxation or mindset techniques, focusing on deep nervous system recalibration. The experience can feel intensive at times, with noticeable sensations such as the chest expanding, the jaw softening, and the breath growing fuller. Rooted in the meaning of soma as the body, the approach shifts attention from overthinking to direct, embodied awareness, supporting a clear and aligned felt sense. Guidance emphasizes personal choice and agency within a welcoming setting. No prior experience is needed, only a willingness to breathe and meet whatever arises. A clinical psychologist has described Jon’s work as offering renewed hope, a chance to start fresh by loosening constricting stories and opening the heart.

Settle into a candlelit sound bath that encourages a gentler pace as evenings grow cooler. Waves of sound from crystal and Tibetan singing bowls, chimes, and other instruments create a calm, meditative atmosphere that supports quiet focus and deep relaxation. The studio will provide a blanket and a bolster for comfort. Please bring a yoga mat, a pillow, and an extra blanket to make your space warm and supportive. Each participant will receive a fall-scented candle to take home.

Meet local singles face to face at a relaxed speed dating night at Vanished Valley in Ludlow, created for people 25–35 who want real conversations beyond the apps. The evening begins with a casual mingle where attendees can buy a drink, then shifts into organized rounds with playful icebreakers so conversations stay light and comfortable. Each mini date lasts only a few minutes before rotating. After every chat, participants select whether they would like to connect as friends, pursue a date, or pass, and if both people choose each other, their contact details are sent the following day. The age range is a guideline rather than a rule, and the aim is a well balanced mix that supports meaningful matches. Group size is intentionally limited so everyone has time to meet. Ticket prices rise after the first 20 tickets are claimed and may increase as capacity fills. Tickets must be purchased in advance through Eventbrite, and a waitlist opens there if it sells out. Arrive a little early for check in since it starts on time and late arrivals may not be accommodated. The emphasis is on enjoying the night, staying present, and meeting new people. Important policies and safety notes from Sips and Sparks apply. Background checks are not conducted and identities are not verified, so each attendee is responsible for personal safety and due diligence. Plan follow up dates in public and keep sensitive information private. Participation is at your own risk, and the organizers, venue, and partners are not liable for incidents during or after the event, including interactions with other guests. Photos and video may be taken for promotional use; let the host know at arrival if you prefer not to appear. Some venues may not be fully accessible; email sipsandsparksevents@gmail.com before purchasing if accommodations are needed. Refunds are available in full when requested at least one week ahead. Within a week there are no refunds or transfers, though a discount code may be offered depending on circumstances. For medical emergencies within a week, a one time refund may be issued with documentation. Questions can be sent to sipsandsparksevents@gmail.com.

A Cairo-style performance with a playful Halloween twist, adding just a hint of spooky-season spirit.

This monthly all-levels yoga class in the Kripalu tradition is scheduled on or near each full moon. Standard rates apply. Attend in person with limited in-studio spots at Heartsong Yoga Center, or participate through a live Zoom option from home. Pre-registration is required through Punchpass, and existing Punchpass cards or memberships can be used when reserving. During sign-up, choose the correct session by selecting the intended date and time, even if the listing title does not reference the full moon theme. Across the year, classes reflect traditional moon names such as Snow, Worm, Pink, Flower, Blue, Strawberry, Buck, Sturgeon, Harvest, Hunter’s, Super Beaver, and Super Cold.

The event includes vendors and a bike show, along with food, beer, and music. Vendor parking is available the morning of the event. For more information, call 860-978-2861.