Old Manse

American Contradictions: Enslavement and the American Revolution at The Old Manse

Many who fought for liberty and independence from Great Britain also enslaved other people – a contradiction that is at the heart of the American Revolution. At the Old Manse, we see this contradiction embodied in the life of William Emerson, “Patriot Preacher” and slave holder. We also… Read More

Woodpecker

Bird Watching Exploration on the Belle Isle Marsh

On this stunning DCR property at Belle Isle Marsh, we will have a FREE monthly birdwatching walk at Belle Isle Marsh, Boston’s last remaining salt marsh. We will watch the wave of migratory birds call this place home throughout the seasons and learn about climate change and the importance of… Read More

The Old Manse

Family-Friendly Tour of the Old Manse

Step into the incredible world of The Old Manse, a stunning 254-year-old house that witnessed the dawn of the American Revolutionary War and served as a sanctuary for renowned writers and artists! Join us for a special 30-minute tour designed just for families with young adventurers. Experience history like never… Read More

Winter Fest Lions Club

Cancelled – Harvard Lions Club Winter Fest 2025

EVENT UPDATE (2/19/25) – We are so sorry to share that, due to extreme icy conditions across New England and at Fruitlands specifically, the Harvard Lions Club has made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Winterfest. Out of an abundance of caution and with visitor safety as the top… Read More

Sugaring Bucket

Children's Maple in the Barnyard at Appleton Farms

Maple Season is here! This special program for ages 3-11 & their families will focus on the magic of maple from start to finish. We will discover this tradition by observing trees, tasting sap, learning the tools involved, and finally, tasting the sweet product. We will make sure to have… Read More

Maple sugar shack

Adult Maple Strolls at Appleton Farms

Visit the historic maple stand and sugar shack at Appleton Farms and learn all about maple sugaring, its history at the farm and in New England, and how you can try your hand at it at home! Experience a leisurely stroll along our country farm roads and past several historic… Read More

chef clarisse

Baking Focaccia with a French Chef! Adult Cooking Class

Join Guest Chef Clarisse in this hands-on class to learn all about baking focaccia, using farm-grown dried herbs from here at Powisset Farm. Chef Clarisse is from the countryside north of Paris, where she grew up cooking beside her mother and grandmother. After earning a degree in hospitality, apprenticing… Read More

DEER

CraneOutdoors: Winter Wildlife Walk

A CraneOutdoors Winter Wildlife Walk will take you on a stroll through the Crane Beach dunes while learning about the plants and animals that call this special place home. You may be familiar with Crane Beach, but have you ever visited the dune trails? The dunes of Castle Neck are… Read More

kids bird house s

Little Sprouts in the Garden: All About Birds

Engage your curious budding gardener or adventurer in our new Little Sprouts in the Garden series, a monthly themed program to connect your child with the natural world around us. During February school vacation, it’s all about birds! Join us for an interactive and hands-on hike and workshop! Take a… Read More

bartholomew's cobble

Nature Journaling with Nanci Worthington

Join New Marlborough artist and NEGSI member, Nanci Worthington as she guides you through nature journaling sessions at Bartholomew’s Cobble. Nanci will teach you how to observe nature and your surroundings and capture what you see, hear and feel on paper. This group is for everyone– self proclaimed naturalists, bird… Read More