Lots of Season Openings

The 413 is home to a tremendous number of attractions, with many opening for the season soon. What better time to check them out than this spring. A few examples include:

Children are invited to hop along the bunny trail* collecting goodies ranging from a take-and-make activity to prize-filled eggs to candy** (of course!). The fun continues with crafts and kid-friendly dancing with DJ Jonny Taylor, plus a visit from the Easter Bunny and a few real bunnies – because no Zoo event is complete without animal encounters! A pre-purchased, timed ticket is required to attend, NO tickets will be sold at the gate on the day of the event. 

* Participation in the Bunny Trail is for children 0-12 with a child ticket. 

**Allergy friendly bags are available for children with food allergies in lieu of candy.

Serving over 30 different flavors, made right on their farm in small batches with all mix-ins stirred in by hand. Enjoy beautiful mountain views with delicious homemade ice cream, sundaes, milkshakes & other frosty creations.

With over 200 acres, Six Flags New England is the Thrill Capital of New England. This premier destination for family fun includes over 100 rides with 12 roller coasters, shows, attractions, and New England’s largest waterpark, Hurricane Harbor with a 500,000 gallon wave pool, plus world class shopping and dining for all ages. And don’t miss out on their Speedy Parking… you can stop waiting in line to park and speed through the toll plaza giving you more time to enjoy the fun. 

A day long adventure for families, Lupa Zoo is a 20 acre conservation and education institution demonstrating the value, beauty and interdependence of all living things. Home to hundreds of animals, including everything from bobcats, zebras, bears, and donkeys to camels, antelope, goats, ostriches and emus. The fun includes ponds with several species of birds, a critter garden, and an indoor habitat for sloths, lizards, snakes, and more! 

Special Events – Something for Everyone

The 11th annual Festival of Flowers features bursting color with objects in the art, science and history museums creatively interpreted by talented florists and garden club members. 

The 2024 race, a benefit for the Good Neighbor’s Food Pantry in Charlemont, starts at Berkshire East ski area and includes a run, ride, paddle, hike, and ski/snowboard portion. With many ways to get involved – such as participating, spectating, and volunteering – this event is a great way to check out many of the best outdoor pursuits in our area.

Don’t miss out on this new tradition that has been many years in the making. A suit & bowtie event like no other hosted by Western Mass radio icons, Rock 102’s Bax and Nagle! An epic feast of MEATS will be paired with a la carte cocktails, spirits, Pendleton whiskey, boulevard brewing and the largest selection of German & Bavarian beers. Reservations are recommended; this event will fill up fast!

Quite possibly the most popular event in the North Quabbin region, the 58th River Rat Race is a fun time for families and people of all ages. With entrants making the eight-mile trek along the Millers River from Athol to Orange for this one-of-a-kind canoe race. Beyond the race, enjoy a weekend of activities including a family-friendly road race, the Big Cheese 5K, the annual parade known as the River Rat Promenade, a carnival near the race-launch site, and a celebration at Riverfront Park in Orange. 

The first-ever Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live™ Glow Party™ brings audiences the only opportunity to see real-life versions of the famous Hot Wheels monster truck toys in the DARK! Don’t miss out on special kids pricing available, providing a great value for the whole family!

In April they melt the ice which gives way to a unique indoor space to host the 3rd Annual Cornhole Tournament. Teams should sign up in advance, but all others are welcome to come and join in the fun for free including food and beverages with Tin Bridge Brewing and Rifts Food Truck.

April School Vacation Week Activities

Enjoy these venues, and many more throughout Western Mass, with the kiddos during school vacation week. Please check the individual websites for specific activities and special events. 

• Springfield Thunderbirds AHL hockey
• The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
• Springfield Museums
• Titanic Museum
• Eastern States Exposition – New England Spring Classic Dog Shows from April 19-21

To access the full Explore Western Mass calendar for school vacation, and more, click here. 

Explore Western Mass this spring!!  Come with the family, friends or as a couple. Western Mass is waiting for you! For great rates on overnight accommodations, click here.  

Learn more about upcoming events and must-see attractions here:  Explore Western Mass website, Instagram or Facebook.