Summer officially arrives in style at the Green River Festival, returning to the historic Franklin County Fairgrounds in Greenfield, Massachusetts, on Saturday and Sunday, June 20–21, 2026. Celebrated as one of New England's favorite music festivals, Green River combines outstanding live performances with family activities, artisan [...]

Relay for Life of Franklin County brings people together for a day of hope, remembrance, and action. On Saturday, June 13, 2026, the community will gather at the Franklin County Fairgrounds for an event that is about more than walking a track — it is about supporting cancer research, honoring survivors, remembering loved ones, and helping [...]

Fire Pits, Outdoor Cooking Areas, Gazebos, and Pools in the Pioneer Valley

One of the biggest attractions of living in Franklin County and the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts is the ability to enjoy the outdoors. With scenic mountain views, wooded landscapes, and open farmland, many buyers are looking for homes that allow them to fully experience the natural beauty of the region.

Outdoor living spaces have become an important feature when selling homes in towns like Shelburne, Conway, Ashfield, Colrain, Deerfield, and Charlemont. Whether it’s gathering around a fire pit on a cool evening or cooking outdoors during the summer months, these features add both lifestyle appeal and value.

Here are some outdoor spaces that buyers love when searching for homes in Western Massachusetts.

The Great Falls Discovery Center invites families of all ages to experience the joy of fishing at The 19th Annual Free Family Fishing Day. Held at the center's picturesque location along the Connecticut River in Turners Falls, Massachusetts, this free event continues a nearly two-decade tradition of connecting families with nature and [...]

Feature Friday: Greenfield Farmers Co-op

When you’re looking for a local business that truly reflects the agricultural roots of Western Massachusetts, Greenfield Farmers Co-op is a perfect place to start. Founded in 1918, this longtime community staple has spent more than a century supporting farmers, gardeners, pet owners, and homeowners [...]

Memorial Day weekend in Bernardston, Massachusetts, marks a beloved local tradition as the 50th Bernardston Gas Engine Show, Giant Flea Market & Tag Sale returns from Friday, May 22 through Sunday, May 24, 2026. Held rain or shine at Pratt Field (257 South Street), this milestone event celebrates five decades of community spirit while [...]

What to Expect in the Pioneer Valley and Hilltowns of Western Mass

For the Love of Farmhouses and Antique Homes

Franklin County and the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts are known for their historic farmhouses and antique homes. Many date back to the 1700s and 1800s and offer character and craftsmanship that modern homes rarely [...]

Greenfield Bee Fest returns on Saturday, May 16, 2026, as a free, family-friendly celebration of bees, pollinators, and Greenfield’s local heritage.

Festival history

Bee Fest began in spring 2010, when Second Congregational Church launched it to mark the 200th birthday of Lorenzo Langstroth, the “Father of Modern Beekeeping.” The event was [...]

Dog lovers and adventure seekers alike will have a reason to celebrate this spring as Mutts and Mayhem returns to Greenfield on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 11:00 am. Hosted at the scenic Green River Swim Area, this one-of-a-kind event invites participants to team up with their four-legged companions for a muddy, high-energy obstacle course [...]