February 2014
In the Great Hall
19th and 20th Century Photographs: Children of the Swift River Valley in the Great Hall
Sat., Feb. 1 (10:30 – 11:30 am) Winter and Spring Pre-school Series: Groundhog Weather School!
Will the groundhog see his shadow this year? How long until Spring? Join Janel Nockleby for stories, crafts, and activities to find out more about this hibernating mammal and its mysterious forecasts. For ages 3 – 6 with a parent or guardian. Siblings and friends welcome.
Sat., Feb. 8 (1:00 – 3:00 pm) Opening Reception for Children of the Swift River Valley Exhibit
Family-friendly exhibit of historic photos focusing on the children of the Swift River Valley before it was flooded. This exhibit is presented by the Swift River Valley Historical Society and will be open Fridays and Saturdays through the end of March. Please join us!
Fri., Feb. 14 (7:00 – 9:00 pm) Great Falls Coffeehouse Presents: Fire Pond
Eveline MacDougall and Douglas Reid present a wide variety of music: old-time fiddle tunes, swing, roots music, Celtic, Eastern European, folk, gospel, and originals. The Valentine's Evening show at the Discovery Center will feature many types of love songs (love for the earth, love for each other, good jokes, family, chocolate, & community)! The concert will be geared for people of all ages & all walks of life.
Doors open at 6:30 pm, concert begins at 7 pm. Refreshments available. Museum and museum store open at intermission. Donations ($6–$12 suggested) help the Friends support free programming at the Great Falls Discovery Center.
Sat., Feb. 15 (1:00 – 2:00 pm) Watershed Investigators: Bears!
It’s the time of year when bear cubs are being born in their dens and adult bears are thinking about coming out of hibernation. Come learn all about bears and what they have been doing all winter. “Watershed Investigators” is a kid-oriented program that focuses on hands-on discovery of local nature. Join refuge staff as we explore different ways to look at the natural world around us. Methods of discovery may include crafts, games, stories, and exploration. This program is geared towards grades 2-5, but everyone is welcome.
Thurs., Feb. 20 (7:00 – 9:00 pm) Greenfield Garden Club Presents: The Smith College Botanic Garden: Past, Present and Future.
This evening will feature two guest speakers. First, Cynthia Boettner of the Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge will present an update on new invasive species to the Franklin County area, and the things that can be done to prevent their spread. Following her, Mr. Michael Marcotrigiano, Professor of Biological Sciences and Director of the Botanic Garden at Smith College in Northampton will give a talk highlighting the past, present, and future of the Smith College Botanic Garden. Smith College contains over 8,000 taxa of plants that are housed within its outdoor gardens, glass houses, and Arboretum. Public is welcome!
Sat., Feb. 22 (10:30 – 11:30 am) Winter and Spring Pre-school Series: Where Are All the Animals Hiding?
Winter is a time for staying snug and warm for animals too! Join Janel Nockleby to investigate the secret hidden animal homes of the season through stories, crafts, and activities. For ages
3 – 6 with a parent or guardian. Siblings and friends welcome
The Great Falls Discovery Center is open om Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.
Call 1-413-863-3221 for info and/or field trip options for schools, senior centers or other area organizations