Tricks and treats for children, plus pumpkins to paint at Town Park

MABBETTSVILLE — In spite of the cool temperatures and some rainfall, the annual Trunk or Treat was held on Saturday, Oct. 30, at the Town of Washington Park in Mabbettesville.

Although only five families showed up this year to decorate their vehicles and offer candy to local children, which was a low turnout compared to years’ past, and the stream of costumed children was also lighter than usual, those who did attend appeared to have a wonderful time.

Children of all ages collected treats to enjoy for the Halloween holiday, which was the next day. They also got to chat with Millbrook Library Director Courtney Tshalis and Children’s Librarian Abby Gallagher. The two were on hand to share spooky Halloween tales and decorate pumpkins while enjoying cider and doughnuts.

The Town of Washington’s Recreation Department helped organize the event, which is always a popular one with parents and children alike.

— Judith O’Hara Balfe

With blue balloons overhead, from left, Asher St. Germain, 7, Henry Boettger, 8, and Molly Boettger, 5, all classmates at Elm Drive Elementary School, stopped by to get some candy at the Trunk or Treat on Saturday, Oct. 30. Brandon Patane helped decorate the car in honor of the Halloween festivity. Photo by Judith O'Hara Balfe

From left, Fiona Patane, 3, with friends Everleigh Dwyer, also 3, and Ashland Dwyer, 10, got their fill of Halloween candy at the Trunk or Treat event at the Town of Washington Park in Mabbettsville on Saturday, Oct. 30. Photo by Judith O'Hara Balfe

Maggie Spafford, 12, and her brother Leif, 9, moved to Millbrook in July to attend local schools, just in time to enjoy the Trunk or Treat at the Town of Washington Park. Photo by Judith O'Hara Balfe

With blue balloons overhead, from left, Asher St. Germain, 7, Henry Boettger, 8, and Molly Boettger, 5, all classmates at Elm Drive Elementary School, stopped by to get some candy at the Trunk or Treat on Saturday, Oct. 30. Brandon Patane helped decorate the car in honor of the Halloween festivity. Photo by Judith O'Hara Balfe

Latest News

Busking in the Berkshires
Brent McCoy of Secret Circus Show at Berkshire Busk!
Roman Iwasiwka

While playing outside in the early post-pandemic days, Berkshire Busk! founder Eugene Carr had an epiphany: why not expand the idea of performing on the street (aka busking)into a full-fledged festival in Great Barrington?

As an entrepreneur and cellist, Carr envisioned a well-organized jamboree featuring regional talent, including musicians, acrobats, storytellers, fire-eaters, and more. He formed a team, connected with local businesses and the town of Great Barrington, and launched Berkshire Busk! in 2021. Since then, Berkshire Busk! has grown into a summer staple for Great Barrington.

Keep ReadingShow less
'Sylvia' brings heart, humor and one unforgettable dog to Sharon Playhouse stage

What if the dog onstage was played by a person? That’s the delightful twist in A.R. Gurney’s “Sylvia,” opening at the Sharon Playhouse on Aug. 29. In this clever and heartfelt comedy, the title character — a stray pup who disrupts the lives of a married couple — is portrayed not in costume but by an actor who brings insight, charm, and chaos to the role.

Stepping into Sylvia’s paws is Jen Cody, who is returning to the Sharon Playhouse in a starring role for her third year in a row, ready to bring this spirited dog to life. She’s joined by Jonathan Walker as Greg, the middle-aged man smitten with his new four-legged friend, and Jennifer Van Dyck as Kate, his wife, whose patience and identity are tested by Sylvia’s sudden presence in their home.

Keep ReadingShow less
Labor Day weekend art, design and local finds

Paul Chaleff’s exhibit at Mad Rose Gallery in Millerton.

Provided

The unofficial end of summer is here, and while some of us may mourn the shortening days and cooler nights, the culturally-inclined denizens of the Litchfield Hills, Berkshires and Taconics have plenty to look forward to.

During Labor Day weekend, visit one of the offerings below, and maybe even take home a watercolor, rug, or locally-crafted wooden bowl to ready your home for the indoor season ahead.

Keep ReadingShow less