Despite the recent snowfall, spring is on the way in Western Massachusetts, and with it comes an abundance of warm weather events. From festivals, to concerts, to antique shows, the Pioneer Valley is teeming with ways to enjoy art, food, and culture this spring. The best part is, all of these events are just a short drive from our showroom and workshop in Gill, MA–so stop by and say hello!
Our Favorite Spring Events in the Pioneer Valley
Hike + Heal: Multiple Dates and Locations 1 pm-3 pm
Sponsored by the North Quabbin Trails Association, the Hike + Heal events combine accessible trail hikes with different healing modalities. Each hike has four healing stations set up along the trail: deep tissue massage, meditation/yoga, reiki, and music. These events are free for veterans and their families, and only $10 for the general public (for up to a family of four).
Brimfield Antique Flea Market: Brimfield, MA May 10-15
Open since 1959, the Brimfield Antique Flea Market is known as one of the top antiquing spots in the country, and is billed as the longest running outdoor antique market in America. Buyers come from all over the world seeking pieces you won’t find anywhere else, from hundreds of vendors.
The market is open from sunrise to sunset, rain or shine, and you’ll need at least one full day to explore the market’s sprawling, mile-long fields. Local lodging is available, too, if you simply need more than one day to take it all in.
Solid Sound at MASS MoCA: North Adams, MA May 27th-29th
This epic music festival spans three days and four stages. Headlined by Wilco, the event also features side projects by Wilco members as well as other musical acts, and a full comedy lineup that includes fellow woodworker Nick Offerman of Parks and Recreation fame.
This rain or shine event has family friendly activities for all ages, local food and craft beer, and camping. That’s right–no need to find a hotel for the weekend. MASS MoCA and the City of North Adams have created SolidGround, a nearby camping site within walking distance of the festival and downtown amenities. Pitch your tent, take in the music, and make some new friends. If glamping is more your thing, there are also RV sites with shuttle service available.
Paradise City Arts Festival: Northampton, MA May 28-30
This longstanding event is a beloved part of the Pioneer Valley arts scene. Held twice a year, Paradise City showcases a highly curated roster of over two hundred artists and fine craftspeople. You’ll find handcrafted furniture, sculpture, fine art, jewelry, and more.
Located on the Northampton Fairgrounds, Paradise City also features a large selection of local food vendors, including some fantastic Northampton restaurants, and a large, outdoor seating area where you can enjoy a meal in between perusing the artists’ booths.
Massachusetts Sheep and Woolcraft Fair: Cummington, MA May 28-29
If sheep and wool are not your thing, this fair just might change your mind. Chosen by Yankee Magazine as one of the top twenty things to do in Massachusetts, this is an event you don’t want to miss.
From humble beginnings in 1974, the Sheep and Woolcraft Fair has grown to include sheep shows, dog trials, sheep and fleece auctions, craft vendors, other fiber animals, and workshops and activities for adults and kids alike. In past years, the event has sponsored a potluck supper in addition to food vendors (the lamb tips are a signature dish!).
Asparagus Festival: Hadley, MA June 4th 10 am – 6 pm
Held annually on the Hadley Town Common, this festival has something for the whole family. The event is free, with donations collected to support local television. You’ll find activities for kids, local food and craft beer for the adults (spoiler alert: there will be a lot of asparagus!), live music, and over 100 local farm and craft vendors.
Pioneer Valley Wine and Food Festival:Brimfield, MA June 12 12pm-5pm
Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets and settle in for a day of live music and local delights on Brimfield’s sprawling Auction Acres. At this festival, the fields will be filled with local food trucks, farmers’ market stalls, art and craft vendors, and of course, booths from local wineries. Both wine tasting and non wine tasting tickets are available.
While You’re in the Neighborhood…
When it comes to events, the Western MA really has it all: everything from fine wine, to freshly sheared sheep, to concert camp-outs and deep tissue massages in the woods. We hope you make the time to enjoy one (or more!) of these great spring events in the Pioneer Valley, and do stop by our showroom when you do! We can’t wait to see you.
