Great Falls Discovery Center is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm.
Starting May 14th, the Center will be open 7 days a week, from 10 am to 4 pm.
All programs are free to the public unless otherwise noted.

In the Great Hall: Paintings by Heather M. Craig May 1-30, 2012


Saturday, May 5, 2012 (1:00 pm – 3:00 pm) Artist Reception: Heather M. Craig

Join us in welcoming Artist Heather M. Craig to the Great Falls Discovery Center. You will get the opportunity to meet the artist and explore her new exhibit. Refreshments served.

Friday, May 11, 2012 (7:00 - 9:00 pm) GFDC Friends Coffeehouse Series: The Harmaniacs

The Harmaniacs are an eclectic harmonica trio, from western Massachusetts. Coming from a wide variety of musical backgrounds, the Harmaniacs play everything from swing to the Beatles to waltzes from Finland, switching lead, bass and chord roles. Doug Tanner, Rob Fletcher, and Steven Retchin are "The Harmaniacs."

Doors open at 6:30 pm, concert begins at 7 pm. Refreshments are available. The museum and museum store will be open at intermission. Donations help the Friends support free programming at the Great Falls Discovery Center ($6–$12 suggested). The Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center host local bands, singers, and musicians in the Great Hall on the second Friday of each month.


Saturday, May 12, 2012 (10:30 am – 11:30 pm) Second Saturday Family Series: What is an oil spill?

Let’s take a look together at some sources of water pollution and their effects on wildlife. Through hands-on experiments we will learn about the difficulties of cleaning up these problems. Afterwards, participate in a fun craft.

Thursday, May 17, 2012 (7:00 - 8:30 pm) Linking Landscapes for Massachusetts Wildlife: Turtles and Road Ecology
Join us for a chat with David Paulson of Mass Wildlife. He'll explore how roads are maintained with wildlife in mind, especially turtles!
Programs are generally geared towards adults, but families are welcome to attend.


Friday, May 25, 2012 (10:30 - 11:30 am) Fourth Friday Young Children's Story Hour: Frogs

Spring peepers may be the smallest frog in the Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge, but did you know their call can be heard from over a mile away? Join us for some frog-tastic stories accompanied by a frog themed craft. This event is geared towards children ages 3-6.


Saturday, May 26, 2012(10:30 am - 2:00 pm) Investigation Station: Rocks & Fossils

The Pioneer Valley is known for its unique geological features. Come visit the museum and stop by our front desk to view some examples of rocks and fossils you can see in our area such as armored mud balls and dinosaur prints.

Saturday, May 26, 2012(1:00-2:00 pm) Movie: Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring

Come celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Silent Spring author Rachel Carson, whose “warnings sparked a revolution in environmental policy and created a new ecological consciousness.”