What’s Happening in Amherst?
Photo: Public Domain
by Art & Maura Keene
You can help us make our events calendar more comprehensive by sending us your listings and including contact information and/or a link for more information. Send events listings to amherstindy@gmail.com.
FRIDAY OCTOBER 17: 51ST ANNUAL MULTIBANDS POPS CONCERT. 7:30 p.m., Tillis Performance Hall, Fine Arts Center, UMass. Since its inception in 1975, the Multibands Pops Concert has been introducing local school students to a wide range of music genres while showcasing the entire spectrum of its student ensembles. Thirteen ensembles of various sizes from the department will present wind, jazz, orchestral, choral, percussion and chamber music in a fast-paced 65-minute first half. As is tradition, the second half will feature the UMass Minuteman Marching Band performing highlights from their 2025 Field Show, complete with color guard and twirlers. In total, more than 700 students will take part in the performance. Tickets $25, $18 for students, seniors, and faculty.
FRIDAY OCTOBER 17 THROUGH SUNDAY OCTOBER 19: “THE BELLE OF AMHERST:” LOCAL THEATER PRODUCTION TO BENEFIT THE LITERACY PROJECT. 7 p.m. October 17 and 18, and 1 p.m.on October 19. Amherst Women’s Club, 35 Triangle Street. Attendees can step into the world of famed poet Emily Dickinson in a one-woman play starring Louise Krieger that explores Dickenson’s life from 1845 to 1886 and who she was as a person and writer. Tickets are $20 and benefit the Literacy Project..
SATURDAY OCTOBER 18: CRANBERRY FAIR AT FIRST CHURCH. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. First Church Amherst, 165 Main Street. The ultimate church fair–part tag sale, part bake sale, part silent auction, and all-out fun and amazing bargains–is happening for the first time in three years–AND a month earlier than usual. Come early to snag the best clothes, books, treasures, tools and baked goods. Stay for lunch and to bid on scores of Silent Auction items.
SATURDAY OCTOBER 18: 53RD ABC WALK/FALL FOLIAGE AND CIDER RUN. 10 a.m., Town Common. The 5k Fall Foliage and Cider Run is a community celebration of Amherst A Better Chance, a residential high school program that prepares academically talented young men of color from educationally underserved school districts for college and future leadership roles. Run or walk to support Amherst A Better Chance. The walk/run starts at Amherst Town Common, partly circles Amherst College campus and enters the woodlands of The Amherst College bird sanctuary, highlighted by a beautiful view over the Pelham Hills. Finally, it follows the Norwottuck Rail Trail back to the campus. Upon completion, runners and walkers are invited to enjoy a cup of cider and healthy snacks while we await the results and then award prizes. Register.
SATURDAY OCTOBER 18: THE COMMON SCHOOL CHILDREN’S CARNIVAL. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 521 South Pleasant Street. Join us for a fun-filled day of games, rides, and activities for the whole family!
SATURDAY OCTOBER 18: NO KINGS #2. Join millions of people around the country in standing up for democracy and against fascism. Amherst Common, 1:30-3:00 . Bring signs, friends and good energy. 26 events across Western MA at different times. More info here.
SUNDAY OCTOBER 19: SEASON FINALE OF CARS AND COFFEE. 8 to 11:30 a.m., Mill District, Cowls Road. This FREE community event invites car lovers of all ages to enjoy an exciting morning filled with cool cars, coffee, and family fun. Spectators get a free drip coffee token and information on entering our raffle for a $50 gift certificate to the Mill District General Store and Local Art Gallery. There will also be an on-site playground and coloring activities to keep the kids entertained. Trophies awarded for the top cars in several categories. Pre-register your vehicle here.
SUNDAY OCTOBER 19: COSTUME 5K RUN AND WALK AT HAMPSHIRE COLLEGE. 10 a.m., Robert Crown Center, Hampshire College. Celebrate Family and Friends Weekend with a fun 5K walk or run. Costumes recommended, not required. Prizes for predicting your time. Please arrive at 9:15 if not pre-registered. Register here or just show up.
SUNDAY OCTOBER 19: AMHERST COMMUNITY LAND TRUST 6TH ANNUAL FALL WALK. 2 p.m., Mill River Recreation Area, 95 Montague Road. We will meet near the pavilion at the Mill River Recreation Area, at 95 Montague Road. We will gather just long enough to share some trail mix and describe the choices for our easy walk and a more challenging one, both on the Mill River Conservation Trails. Rain date is Sunday, October 26. RSVP if you can, but are also welcome to just come if you find on the day that you can. We look forward to enjoying the fall colors with you. Here’s hoping for crisp clear air, autumnal sun and a shower of red, orange, yellow and tawny hues all around! All are welcome.
SUNDAY OCTOBER 19: PLAY DATE AND MEET AMHERST FOR THE PEOPLE’S ELECTION CANDIDATES. 2:30-4:30. Groff Park. 83 Mill Lane. Bring Your Kids (or not). For Town Council: Jill Brevik, Allegra Clark, Amber Cano-Martin, Ellisha Walker. For School Committee: Esther Azar, Briget Hynes, Andrew Hart, Laura Jane Hunter. We will fight for fully funded schools, accountability, community affordability, and balance.
SUNDAY OCTOBER 19: WALKING TOUR OF DOWNTOWN AMHERST ARCHITECTURE. On October 19, 2025, the Amherst Historical Society & Museum will host a guided architectural tour of downtown Amherst. The tour will be led by architect Steve Schreiber FAIA and Chair of the Department of Architecture at UMass. It will explore the exteriors and surroundings of old and new buildings in the central business district, and will include stops at infrequently seen places. The buildings included in this tour will be chosen by Professor Schreiber. PRE REGISTRATION REQUIRED. REGISTRATION INFORMATION COMING SOON.
SUNDAY OCTOBER 19: “EVA’S PROMISE”. 2 p.m., Yiddish Book Center, 1021 West Street. This powerful documentary tells the story of Heinz Geiringer’s hidden artwork and his sister Eva’s vow to recover it—revealing a legacy overshadowed by the better-known story of Anne Frank, who posthumously became Eva’s stepsister. Purchase tickets
SUNDAY OCTOBER 19: MUSICAL COFFEE HOUSE AT SOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. Featuring the Burgoff/ Ricker Trio. The Burgoff/Ricker Trio will be featured at a musical coffee house at South Congregational Church, 1066 South East Street, on Sunday October 19 at 3:00 p,m. Refershments will be served. Suggested donation is $20/person. More info
TUESDAY OCTOBER 21: VACCINE CLINIC FOR SENIORS. 2 to 5 p.m., Bangs Center, 70 Boltwood Walk. Covid-19 vaccines for people age 65 and over and flu vaccine for all ages. Register at http://northamptonma.gov/2219/vax or call 413-259-3077 or email publichealth@amherstma.gov
TUESDY OCTOBER 21: E-BIKES 101: THE PEOPLE’S GUIDE TO PEDAL ASSIST. 7 p.m. on Zoom. The Local Energy Advocates meeting will include a presentation on e-bikes from Laura Davis. Electric bikes—commonly known as e-bikes—are transforming the way people move through their communities. Whether you’re looking for a more active lifestyle, an easier way to explore the outdoors, or an economical and sustainable alternative to short car trips, e-bikes offer a flexible, fun, and surprisingly powerful solution. This presentation is for anyone curious about e-bikes—especially those wondering how they fit into the bigger picture of sustainable transportation. We’ll explore the many benefits e-bikes offer—from getting folks of all ages and abilities outside and active, to providing a practical, affordable way to get around town. We’ll also tackle your burning questions, from e-bike etiquette to battery safety and more. And—we’ll dig into the data: How much energy do e-bikes actually use? And how much carbon could you save by replacing even some of your local car trips with an e-bike? Join us at this Zoom link.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 21: NATIONAL MOVEMENT VOTER PROJECT HOUSE PARTY. 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. online. The online MVP parties like this one are especially powerful because of the presentations by diverse, well-informed, fiercely committed younger activists who are also working in alliance with each other, and funded by MVP. They provide a political education something like what we experienced with the North Carolina Cabarrus County folks: a gritty sense of what’s it’s like on the ground in red and purple states, what they accomplish, and exactly how our support enables them to do it better. I’m blown away and energized every time I listen to them. It will do your heart good to be there! Register here.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 22: RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY: NORTH COMMON REVITALIZATION PROJECT. 12 p.m., 4 Boltwood Avenue. The Town of Amherst set out on a mission to transform the North Common into a more inviting and vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike. The vision was to create a lively gathering place that would draw people to Downtown Amherst for community events, civic activities, shopping, and dining at our local small businesses. This project has been a collaborative journey spanning several years, supported by various Town departments, boards, committees, and community members. After more than a decade of public engagement, thoughtful design, and careful construction, the North Common Revitalization Project is officially complete. Please join us in celebrating the official opening of this dynamic community space! RSVP by October 19.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 22: WESTERN MASS PEOPLES FORUM ON PUBLIC SCHOOLS. Online. 6:30-8:00 p.m. Western Massachusetts area residents will gather together on zoom to have conversations about the education we want for our children. What should students know and be able to do by the time they graduate from high school? How should students demonstrate their readiness to graduate? How can schools, pre-K to 12, support these goals. Register and more information here.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 22: ECONOMIST NANCY FOLBRE ON THE IMPACT OF TRUMP’S POLICIES ON FAMILIES. Pelham Town Library, 7 p.m. Nancy Folbre, UMass Professor of Economics emerita, will speak on the impact of President Trump’s recent social policies on individuals, families, and our communities.in the Ramsdell Room of the Pelham Town Library. Parking is nearby. This forum is sponsored by the Pelham Town Democratic Town Committee and is open to all people regardless of political outlook or party affiliation. Her talk on this occasion if entitled, “Trump, Family, and the Care Economy.” MORE
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 22: WORDS AND MUSIC: BILL JANOVITZ. 7:30 p.m., Bowker Auditorium, UMass. Though he’s best known for his music — his career as frontman for the iconic alt rock band Buffalo Tom and as a solo artist has spanned nearly four decades — Janovitz also has enjoyed significant success as an author, journalist, and essayist. Janovitz is the author of the Exile on Main St. volume in the acclaimed 33⅓ series (Continuum, 2005), Rocks Off: 50 Tracks That Tell the Story of the Rolling Stones (St. Martin’s Press, 2013), and the New York Times bestseller Leon Russell: The Master of Space and Time’s Journey Through Rock & Roll History (Da Capo, 2023). His latest book, The Cars: Let the Stories Be Told (Da Capo, September 2025), explores the musical, cultural, and commercial impact of the Boston band whose new wave-inflected pop songs spent a decade at the top of the charts and propelled the band to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame — not to mention an enduring presence in the hearts of their millions of fans. Pay what you want until 6:15 on the day of the show from $5 and up. After 6:15, prices start at $27.
THURSDAY OCTOBER 23: MASSIVE DESK CONCERT SERIES: SEAN KASTANTIN AND MAGGIE GEARAN. 7-8 p.m. UMass Downtown, 108 North Pleasant Street. Get to know some MASSively talented up-and-coming UMass musicians in this chill concert series. Artist line-up coming soon! Presented in partnership with the UMass Songwriting and Production Club, the MASSive Desk Concert Series is free and open to all.
THURSDAY OCTOBER 23: CANDIDATE FORUM FOR AT-LARGE TOWN COUNCIL AND SCHOOL COMMITTEE CANDIDATES. 6:15 to 9 p.m., Amherst Regional High School Library, 21 Mattoon Street. These forums are sponsored by the League of Women Voters and each forum is scheduled for 7:00-9:00pm at the Amherst Regional High School Library and preceded at 6:15 by a meet and greet with the candidates–light refreshments available. The schedule is Thursday, October 23– Candidates for at large Town Council and School Committee. Each candidate will answer questions submitted by Amherst voters. Audience members are encouraged to submit questions either in advance by emailing them to lwva@lwvamherst.org (by the day before the forum) or those in attendance can write their questions on index cards provided, which will be read to the candidates. The events will be recorded and available on You Tube.
FRIDAY OCTOBER 24: MEET THE ECLIPSE CHASERS. 1 p.m., Bangs Center, 70 Boltwood Walk. Mabel Todd turned their travels into magazine articles and three books about astronomy which included descriptions of remote tribal people and exotic landscapes – jungles, deserts, and volcanoes! In this way, Mabel supported her husband’s research expeditions and helped him achieve national recognition, and Millicent was inspired to pursue scientific studies leading to a PhD in geography from Harvard. Amherst Historical Society History Bites lunch time series.
FRIDAY OCTOBER 24: OPENING RECEPTION AT LOCAL ART GALLERY IN THE MILL DISTRICT. 5 to 7 p.m., Local Art Gallery and General Store, 91 Cowls Road. Join us in celebrating the current collection of art on exhibit and for purchase by over 30 local artists. Don’t miss this wonderful evening of conversation, art, and complementary light refreshments. Live piano jazz by Avi Steinhardt and tastings offered by Provisions. RSVP here. Free. Artists joining the gallery for this quarter are: Barbara Authier, Victoria Munroe, Julie Sawyer, Donna Roy, Chris Bordenca, and Karen Iglehart, plus many returning artists.
SATURDAY OCTOBER 25: PUMPKIN PAINTING FOR AMHERST SURVIVAL CENTER. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Local Art Gallery at the Mill District, 91 Cowls Road. Join us in The Local Art Gallery for drop-in, Free, Family-Friendly Pumpkin Painting on Saturday, October 25 from 11am-2pm. RSVP. We will provide all the materials while supplies last. While we are using tempura paint, be sure to wear clothes you don’t mind getting paint on. Prepare to take home your wet pumpkin with some newspapers! Great for all ages! Children under 14 must be actively supervised at all times. Help us to support Amherst Survival Center (ASC). Donate directly to Amherst Survival Center: https://amherstsurvival.org/donate
SATURDAY OCTOBER 25: PEOPLES’ TRIBUNAL FOR PALESTINE Unitarian Universalist Society of Amherst, 121 North Pleasant Streetm, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Western Massachusetts activists will host a People’s Tribunal on Saturday October 25 to examine evidence of local participation in the genocide in Gaza. The event will be held at the at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Amherst, 121 North Pleasant Streetm, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will follow the format of organizers at the University of California. In a series of public presentations, organizers from the Five Colleges and various community groups will reveal detailed evidence of local participation in the genocide. The audience, The People, will serve as this trial’s jury. More info
SATURDAY OCTOBER 25: HALLOWEEN PAWTY AT THE AMHERST DOG PARK. 2 to 4 p.m., Amherst Dog Park, Old Belchertown Road. The 4th annual Halloween dog costume “pawty” is set for October 25. Bring your spooky and adorable dogs. Prizes for best dog costumes and best dog/human duo for both big and little dogs. Also raffles, food, and lots of fun. Suggested donation $5. Rain date is Sunday, October 26.
SUNDAY OCTOBER 26: YIDDISH BOOK CENTER OPEN HOUSE. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Yiddish Book Center 1021 West Street. October marks the second anniversary of the Yiddish Book Center’s landmark exhibition Yiddish: A Global Culture. To celebrate, we’re hosting a full day of activities, including pop-up performances, public tours, a scavenger hunt, and the launch of the exhibition’s catalog, Yiddish: A Global Culture: Bold Lives, Boundless Creativity (White Goat Press). Learn more.
SUNDAY OCTOBER 26: DOWNTOWN HALLOWEEN AND SPOOKTACULAR. 12 to 3:30 p.m. Get your costumes ready! Families can enjoy downtown trick or treating from 12 to 1 p.m., a costume parade from 1:15 to 1:30, and a haunted house with a kids’ carnival from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Presented by Amherst Recreation with the Jones Library. This free community celebration brings friendly frights, sweet treats, and plenty of photo moments, all within a short stroll of your favorite downtown shops and cafes.
SUNDAY OCTOBER 26: DISTRICT ONE CANDIDATE FORUM. 3 to 5 p.m., North Amherst Library Community Room, 8 Montague Road. Meet the candidates who are running to represent District One. Hear their views on what is good for our neighborhood and Amherst. Share your views with them and ask questions.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 28: CENTENNIAL WATER TREATMENT PLANT RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY. 12 p.m., 25 Valley Road, Pelham. Join the Town of Amherst for a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony celebrating the opening of the new Centennial Water Treatment Plant! All are welcome. The Centennial Water Treatment Plant provides up to 1 million gallons of clean drinking water per day to the Amherst water system. The previous facility, which went offline in 2018 after a lightning strike caused extensive electrical damage, needed to be replaced due to its aging infrastructure and changes in water quality that made the treatment process less effective. The new plant, located in Pelham, features advanced, more efficient treatment technology to keep Amherst’s drinking water safe, reliable, and sustainable. Please join us in celebrating the official opening of this essential public works facility! Park behind the Pelham Library. Shuttle service from the library to the plant.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 29: COLLEGE PREPAREDNESS WORKSHOP. 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., Town Room, Town Hall, 4 Boltwood Avenue. Designed for middle and high school students, this interactive session will explore how to navigate the Common Application and personal essay, understand financial aid options, identify colleges that best fit your needs, and learn from current college students about how they chose their majors. This program goes beyond simply providing information; it’s about giving students the tools, confidence, and guidance they need to make informed decisions about their future. Along the way, participants will be encouraged to ask questions, share their perspectives, and connect with peers who are on similar journeys. Pizza and snacks will be provided—join us for an afternoon of learning, conversation, and connection. This event takes place on an early release day for Public Schools. This event is hosted by the Town of Amherst Department of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in partnership with UMass Amherst Admissions and Amherst College Financial Aid. This is part of the Town’s ongoing youth empowerment programs.
THURSDAY OCTOBER 30: WELCOME CEREMONY FOR VISITORS FROM SISTER CITY KANEGASAKI, JAPAN. 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., Town Room, Town Hall, 4 Boltwood Avenue. This small gathering will feature introductions with local officials, host families, and the visiting students. The student delegation will also present an engaging overview of Kanegasaki, fostering cultural exchange and friendship. We look forward to celebrating this special connection!
THURSDAY OCTOBER 30: BECOMING BELOVED COMMUNITY: CIVICS, CITIZENSHIP, AND CIVILITY. 5:45 to 8 p.m., Town Room, Town Hall, 4 Boltwood Avenue. This event was originally scheduled for October 16 and has been rescheduled to October 30. RSVP is required. We are often led to believe that our political views are polarized, however many studies show that we are closer in our thinking and beliefs than is portrayed. Join this event to learn more and talk with neighbors about this timely topic. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Gun Violence, War and Conflict around the Globe, Free Speech, Immunization and other issues seem to be ripping the nation and countries around the globe apart. This community conversation invites ALL to engage in a dialogue about the rights and privileges of citizenship in a democratic society where civility is lacking. Led by the Town of Amherst’s Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Pamela Nolan Young. Pamela is a Dartmouth College graduate who majored in government, a graduate of the University of Notre Dame Law School, and a member of the Massachusetts Bar for over 35 years. Pamela states: What I hope most for this event is that it will be attended by a variety of voices. I believe the most important word in the preamble to the U.S, Constitution is WE! It is not us or them. WE! We must live, work, and govern together. So come and invite the person with a different perspective to come as well.” This event is part of the Town of Amherst Department of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programming. Participants are invited to engage in DEI-led civic conversations that foster a welcoming environment for the Amherst community. RSVP required. Light refreshments at 5:45.
FRIDAY OCTOBER 31: RETIREMENT PARTY FOR ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF JEFFERY OLMSTEAD. 2 to 4 p.m., North Fire Station, 603 East Pleasant Street. After serving with the Amherst Fire Department for over 30 years, Assistant Fire Chief Jeff Olmstead is retiring. Join us anytime during the event to say farewell to Jeff and wish him well in retirement! Please forward this to anyone else you think may be interested
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 2: WALKING TOUR: THE WOMEN OF WEST CEMETERY. 1 to 2:30 p.m., West Cemetery, Triangle Street. Stroll through over three centuries of history in downtown Amherst’s West Cemetery and learn about the women who’ve inhabited this town–from women whose names and stories have been lost to time to those who are internationally renowned like poet Emily Dickinson. This 90 minute tour will examine how Amherst women from different backgrounds have lived, died, and been remembered. Led by Sarah Zureick-Brown, cemetery tour guide and creator of The Silent Sod. PRE REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Register here.
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 8: HOLIDAY ARTS MARKET AT THE MILL DISTRICT. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., 91 Cowls Road. Join us for a festive celebration of creativity at our Annual Holiday Arts Market. Local artists, makers, food vendors, and community partners contribute to this beloved North Amherst tradition. (Rain date: Sunday, November 9).
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 8: GRACE CHURCH HARVEST CONCERT. 4 p.m., Grace Episcopal Church, 14 Boltwood Avenue. Celebrate the harvest season with beautiful music at Grace Church! The concert will feature Mark Fraser, cello; Estela Olevsky, piano; Dick Damon, organ; Hanif Lawrence, tenor soloist; the Silverwood Quartet; the Cantabile vocal ensemble; and the Grace Church Choir directed by Hanif Lawrence.
Suggested donation is $25 at the door, with proceeds benefiting the
Grace Church Organ Fund. Contact: Mary Hocken melizhocken@gmail.com
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 8: DEMOCRACY: AMERICAN MUSICAL. Two shows, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., ‘Bernie Dallas Room, Goodell Hall, 140 Hicks Way, UMass. The University of Massachusetts Theater Guild will present a concert performance of Democracy: American Musical by John McDonnell Tierney on Saturday Nov. 8, with two shows at 1:00 and 7:00 pm. This work is a powerful statement on the vital importance of defending and supporting democratic values in the face of a growing shift toward autocracy. The concert is free and open to the public. For more information visit: www.jackmct.com.
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 9: FRIENDS OF THE JONES LIBRARIES PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT. Bay Road Multisport Center. Registration is now open for the second annual tournament. Register now through October 11 for one of 6 divisions for all levels. Information and registration here. $60 a person.
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 6 THROUGH SUNDAY NOVEMBER 9: VALLEY LIGHT OPERA PRESENTS HMS PINAFORE. November 6 and 7 at 7:30 p.m., November 8 and 9 at 2 p.m., Academy of Music, Northampton. Valley Light Opera celebrates its 50th Anniversary with a stunning production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s HMS Pinafore – the show that started it all! With the charm, manners, and romance of a Jane Austen novella, this beloved story about social status, rank, forbidden love, and societal pressures has transcended time for all the best reasons. Replete with gorgeous music, accompanied by a full orchestra, we’ll meet a cast of characters that are at turns funny, poignant, mysterious, haughty, and altogether fun to watch. With a charmingly nautical set and VLO’s famously beautiful costumes, this production will be a feast for the ears, eyes and heart. Tickets.
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 15: CENTER FOR WOMEN & COMMUNITY CHILLY CHALLENGE AT PUFFER’S POND. 10:30 a.m. The Center for Women & Community (CWC) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst invites all to join its annual Chilly Challenge fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 15 at Puffer’s Pond in North Amherst beginning at 10:30 a.m. The Challenge is an annual event that began in 2021, during Covid pandemic isolation, to bring community together while raising awareness and supporting services provided to those impacted by violence. Participants raise awareness and funds in support of free Sexual Assault Support, Advocacy and Prevention Services in Hampshire County. All are invited to take the plunge (or just dip a toe in) in Puffer’s Pond or choose a less chilly way to support, such as making a donation. There will be warm chili, cider and desserts provided by UMass Dining.The rain date for the event will be Sunday, November 16. Contact Center for Women & Community, cwc@umass.edu, 413-545-0883.
ONGOING AND MULTI-DAY EVENTS
EVERY MONDAY EXCEPT HOLIDAYS: AUTOHARP WORKSHOPS. 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Senior Center, Bangs Center, 70 Boltwood Walk. Join Marie Hartwell-Walker and autoharp players throughout the country who participate on Zoom. Participants on Zoom also welcome.
EVERY TUESDAY: RACIAL JUSTICE VIGIL 4:00 p.m. -4:30 p.m., downtown Amherst in front of the Bank of America.
FIRST TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH: COUNCIL ON AGING SENIOR LUNCH. Noon. Bangs Center, 70 Boltwood Walk.
FIRST TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH. RAINBOW COFFEE HOUR. 9:30-11 a.m. Amherst Senior Center, Bangs Center, 70 Boltwood Walk. The Rainbow Coffee Hour is a LGBTIA+ social coffee group for ages 50 and above. Join us for this welcoming space to socialize. No format, no agenda, just community. More information
EVERY WEDNESDAY : CAFE. Bangs Community Center, 70 Boltwood Walk. 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Are you or a loved one experiencing memory loss? At the Amherst Senior Center, we understand memory changes and have developed a new program based on the popular Memory Café format. Our Café offers fun, relaxation, and of course, snacks. This program is perfect for caregivers, people with mild memory loss, or anyone in the community who enjoys good conversation and strong coffee. Each Café opens with a coffee and conversation hour, followed by a group activity. Join us on Wednesday, November 30th for a performance by our special musical guests, “Healing Hearts with Harmony” at 11:00am. Come for the coffee, stay for the connections! Email seniorcenter@amherstma.gov or call 413-259-3060 with questions.
EVERY WEDNESDAY: WEEKLY WEDNESDAY MARKET. 10 to 11:30 a.m., Bangs Community Center, 70 Boltwood Walk. Since its launch in May 2024, the Wednesday Market has served over 700 community members. The Market is open to all, and there’s no registration and no questions asked. Just come and enjoy. We distribute fresh produce, dairy, prepared food, and delicious treats.
EVERY WEDNESDAY: BEGINNER BIRDING. 9:00-9:30 a.m. Notch Visitor Center, 1500 West Street. For ages 12 and up. An easy, level, 1/4-mile guided hike to discover more about birds: their behaviors, needs, habitats and significance. Listen, observe, sketch, photo or journal. Free
LAST WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH (EXCLUDING JULY AND JANUARY): NORTHAMPTON JAZZ WORKSHOP. The Drake. 44 North Pleasant Street. 7:30 p.m. Free (donations accepted). Featuring the Green Street trio with a special guest. Featured set at 7:30 followed by an open jam session. Bring your axe. Full calendar of events here.
LAST WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH: CRAFT AND CONVERSE. Mill District General Store and Local Art Gallery, 91 Cowls Road. 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. Are you tired of creating in solitude? Looking to connect with other artistic individuals? Grab your sketchbook, knitting bag, or water color gear and join our monthly coworking group! Craft and converse, hosted by Easthampton artist Kaia Zimmerman, is held the last Wednesday of every month from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. This welcoming, intentional space is designed for community members to come together for a casual, social evening while pursuing their own creative projects. Drop-ins welcome, but registration encouraged for any weather-related changes in schedule. Bring your own arts or crafts project (BYOA) to work on. Ages 16+.
WEDNESDAYS, THURSDAYS, AND SATURDAYS JUNE THROUGH NOVEMBER: AMHERST MOBILE MARKET. Wednesdays 3 to 6 p.m. in North Amherst, Thursdays 3 to 6 p.m. at Colonial Village, and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at East Hadley Road. The Amherst Mobile Market not only makes affordable produce available within walking distance of residents who struggle to access healthy food, but also puts decision-making in the hands of low-income, BIPOC community members and builds the capacity of those community members to take on leadership roles.
THURSDAYS SEPTEMBER 11 THROUGH OCTOBER 2: INTRODUCTORY DRAWING WITH DAVID DICKINSON. 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., Mill District Local Art Gallery, 91 Cowls Road. If you have been craving an in-depth class to learn drawing basics, this is the class for YOU! Students will learn via lectures demonstrations, and homework. Join accomplished artist and instructor, David Dickinson, at The Local Art Gallery Thursday mornings this fall for an Introductory Drawing Class. This class will meet four times on Thursday mornings: 9/11,
9/18, 9/25, 10/2 from 10:30am-12pm. Deadline to sign up: September 1, 2025. Limited seating .$100, includes supplies. Ages: 14+.
EVERY THURSDAY : AMHERST ARTISANS’ MARKET. 3 to 7 p.m., front lawn of the Amherst History Museum, 67 Amity Street. The Amherst Artisans’ Market features local artists, crafters and food vendors.
EVERY THURSDAY: STITCH CIRCLE. 4 to 6 p.m. Mill District Local Art Gallery and General Store, 91 Cowls Road. Grab your needles, venture to the General Store, and join us for our first Stitch Circle. Knitters, quilters, embroidery artists, and crocheters are all invited. Free.
EVERY FRIDAY: HANDS OFF OUR LIVES STANDOUT. 4 pm – 5:30 p.m., Kendrick Park, Amherst. https://www.mobilize.us/mobilize/event/778646/
FIRST AND THIRD FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH: VETERAN’S COMMUNITY BREAKFAST FOR ALL -8 a.m – 9 a.m. Large Activity Room, Bangs Center, 70 Boltwood Walk. At each breakfast (bagel/donut/coffee), a veteran or veteran ally, will tell his or her personal story regarding military service. Generation after generation reveals that those going to war to defend our country come back spiritually and morally wounded, regardless of the bodily consequences of combat. We want to bring veterans together for food and friendship to help coalesce a spirit of camaraderie to enable authentic, veteran-oriented communities to flourish. WELCOME: Veterans, Spouses, Caregivers, Amherst Community Members. Let’s Build a Thriving Veterans Community. There are 387 Veterans in town! Sponsored by CRESS. FOR MORE INFORMATION: CALL THE CRESS OFFICE, (413) 259-3370 OR GENE HERMAN, VIETNAM VETERAN, (240) 472-7288 – CRESS VETERAN’S OUTREACH VOLUNTEER.
EVERY SATURDAY THROUGH NOVEMBER 23: AMHERST FARMERS’ MARKET. 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Town Common. Established in 1972, the Amherst Farmers’ Market is widely recognized as one of the best places for local food, fun, and community offering farm to table produce and selections from your local growers and Valley producers. Come out for the food, music, events, and community offerings.
SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS: LIVE JAZZ AND GOOD EATS AT THE BLACK SHEEP. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Black Sheep Deli, 79 Main Street. Frist and third Saturdays: Masala Jazz, Second, Fourth and Fifth Saturdays: Simmer Music Presents, Sundays: the Catalytics. Tip Jar..
THIRD SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH MAY THROUGH OCTOBER: CARS AND COFFEE AT THE MILL DISTRICT. 8 to 11:30 a.m., Mill District, Cowls Road. Cars and Coffee is back—and it’s bigger than ever! This FREE community event invites car lovers of all ages to enjoy an exciting morning filled with cool cars, coffee, and family fun. Spectators get a free drip coffee token and information on entering our raffle for a $50 gift certificate to the Mill District General Store and Local Art Gallery. There will also be an on-site playground and coloring activities to keep the kids entertained. Trophies awarded for the top cars in several categories. Pre-register your vehicle here.
NOW THROUGH SUNDAY OCTOBER 19: “THE BELLE OF AMHERST:” LOCAL THEATER PRODUCTION TO BENEFIT THE LITERACY PROJECT. 7 p.m. October 17 and 18, and 1 p.m.on October 19. Amherst Women’s Club, 35 Triangle Street. Attendees can step into the world of famed poet Emily Dickinson in a one-woman play starring Louise Krieger that explores Dickenson’s life from 1845 to 1886 and who she was as a person and writer. Tickets are $20 and benefit the Literacy Project..
NOW THROUGH FRIDAY OCTOBER 31: WHO ARE YOU? WHO AM AI?: ART, TATTOOS, AND IDENTITY. Augusta Savage Gallery, 180 Infirmary Way, UMass. Alex Leon Sherker’s art show focuses more on the philosophical concepts behind tattooing as a means of building and representing identity, rather than getting “too caught in the tattoo-ness of the show.” He said, “Tattooing is whole mythologies of life and the human journey.” The exhibition consists of 18 large pieces, created by hand but aided by AI software. Sherker lives in Austin, Texas, but graduated from UMass in the 90’s. There is an opening reception from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, October 3.
NOW THROUGH FRIDAY OCTOBER 31: HIKE FOR HUNGER TO SUPPORT THE AMHERST SURVIVAL CENTER. Kestrel Land Trust is partnering with Amherst Survival Center (ASC) to support their Hike for Hunger: Register to participate in the Hike for Hunger, then head out on any trails at any time during the entire month of October and connect to the land! Once registered, you’ll be able to access your own fundraising page to start collecting donations from family and friends.
NOW THROUGH SATURDAY NOVEMBER 1: NEW AT GALLERY A3: PERSPECTIVES JOIN THE POLITICAL AND THE PERSONAL In PERSPECTIVES Join the Political and the Personal at Gallery A3, Rochelle Shicoff and Diane Steingart invite viewers into their diverse visual worlds. Shicoff’s series of paintings express her responses to the current conflict in Gaza while Steingart’s process-driven paintings explore an inner world of emotions, memories, and dreams. The exhibit at Gallery A3 opens on Thursday, October 2 and will run through Saturday, November 1. There will be an opening reception at the gallery on Friday, October 3 from 5-7 p.m. There will be a free Art Forum Online on Thursday, October 16, at 7:30 p.m. Pre-register here. Gallery A3 is located at 28 Amity Street 1D. Gallery hours are Thursday–Sunday, 2:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. More Information
NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 1 : A SOMETHING OVERTAKES THE MIND: A MULTIMEDIA VISUAL ART AND POETRY INSTALLATION BY LIGIA BOUTON AND MATT DONOVAN. Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Emily Dickinson Museum, 280 Main Street. A Something Overtakes the Mind is a multimedia visual art and poetry installation created by Ligia Bouton and Matt Donovan for the Emily Dickinson Museum. Through explorations of domestic objects, biographical details, found poetry, and community testimonials, the exhibition seeks to find new ways of engaging with the poet’s life and legacy. The exhibition, free to the public during museum open hours, will be installed in the ground floor of the Homestead in the house’s woodshed, laundry room, and kitchen. Visitors to the installation must first check in at the carriage house tour center.
NOW THROUGH FRIDAY DECEMBER 5: NATURAL HISTORY COLLECTIONS: STRANGE BUT TRUE. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Morrill Science Center II, 627 North Pleasant Street. The UMass Natural History Collections presents: Strange but True. From the world’s smallest “elephant” to the world’s largest brain, meet some of our most interesting specimens. Weekdays, 9am to 5pm, until December 5.
NOW THROUGH SUNDAY JANUARY 4: RETROSPECTIVE: THE ART OF GRACE LIN: MEETING A FRIEND IN AN UNEXPECTED PLACE. Eric Carle Museum, 125 West Bay Road. Grace Lin’s first picture book, The Ugly Vegetables, was published in 1999 to glowing praise. Twenty-five years later, she has created more than 30 titles, including board books, early readers, and middle grade novels, garnering Caldecott, Newbury, and Geisel honors along the way. Lin is a dedicated advocate for diversity in children’s book publishing, with a popular TEDx talk, “The Windows and Mirrors of Your Child’s Bookshelf” and created the video essay, “What to do when you realize classic books from your childhood are racist?” for PBS News Hour and New England Public Radio. This career retrospective of more than 80 works celebrates all aspects of Lin’s creativity with original art, sketches, manuscripts, and videos.
NOW THROUGH SATURDAY NOVEMBER 1: NEW AT GALLERY A3: PERSPECTIVES JOIN THE POLITICAL AND THE PERSONAL In PERSPECTIVES Join the Political and the Personal at Gallery A3, Rochelle Shicoff and Diane Steingart invite viewers into their diverse visual worlds. Shicoff’s series of paintings express her responses to the current conflict in Gaza while Steingart’s process-driven paintings explore an inner world of emotions, memories, and dreams. The exhibit at Gallery A3 opens on Thursday, October 2 and will run through Saturday, November 1. There will be an opening reception at the gallery on Friday, October 3 from 5-7 p.m. There will be a free Art Forum Online on Thursday, October 16, at 7:30 p.m. Pre-register here. Gallery A3 is located at 28 Amity Street 1D. Gallery hours are Thursday–Sunday, 2:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. More Information