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 [...]

Thankfulness and Thanksgiving in New England

November in Franklin County, Massachusetts, marks the close of the harvest season. The fields and orchards show the year’s last effort, and local farms gather what remains before winter settles in. It’s a time of quiet thankfulness—rooted in the same landscape and traditions that helped shape New [...]

Autumn in Franklin County, Massachusetts means crisp mornings, vibrant leaves, and the irresistible charm of pumpkin patches dotting the landscape. Pumpkin picking is a beloved fall tradition. Read on to discover creative ways to enjoy the harvest, and the region’s top local patches for a festive outdoor [...]

Apple picking season in Franklin County, Massachusetts offers residents and visitors the chance to enjoy the bounty of New England’s orchards from late August through mid-October, with each farm featuring distinct varieties and experiences. Franklin County’s apple growers maintain a rich tradition of family farming, sustainability, and [...]

Strengthening Local Food Systems in Franklin County

Just Roots is a nonprofit based in Greenfield, Massachusetts, working to increase access to healthy local food and support sustainable agriculture throughout Franklin County. Since 2008, the organization has focused on reconnecting people with where their food comes from—starting with [...]

Hicks Family Farm Stand in Charlemont, Massachusetts, is excited to announce a variety of new products and expanded offerings this season. Open from July through November, the farm stand continues to be a favorite destination for fresh, locally grown produce, farm-raised meats, and artisan goods — now with even more to explore.

Farm-Raised Meats and Fresh [...]

Western Massachusetts is known for its rolling hills, rich farmland, and strong community spirit—and nowhere is that more evident than at the local farmers’ markets of Franklin County. These vibrant weekly gatherings offer far more than just produce; they’re spaces to connect, enjoy music, support local makers, and nourish both body and [...]

As autumn approaches, Western Massachusetts transforms into a vibrant tapestry of fall colors, making it the perfect time for outdoor adventures. Two standout attractions in this picturesque region are the Hicks Family Farm Corn Maze in Charlemont and Mike’s Maze in Sunderland. Each offers a unique experience for families and friends looking [...]

Summertime in Western Mass means plenty of delicious, healthy, locally grown fruits and veggies from our local farms. On any given day of the week you can stop by a local farm stand and pick up some produce. But on certain days, farmers, artisans, and producers come together to put on a farmers’ market for the community. Here are some [...]

Williams Farm Sugarhouse in Deerfield, Massachusetts is a 5th generation sugarhouse. The Williams family started tapping sugar maples and making syrup in the mid-1800s. Milton Hubbard Williams marked his first sugaring on March 6, 1853 and continued to do so for decades. His son Kenneth Sanderson Williams continued sugaring and while the [...]