Wistariahurst Museum is delighted to welcome guests for our Darkened Hallways Tours this fall. Immerse yourself in an evening of spine-tingling discovery and feel the lingering energy of past inhabitants and workers that once occupied these haunted halls. As our docent leads you through the home by candlelight, you will uncover stories of the Skinner family, the tragedy that moved their home and business to Holyoke, and other chilling tales from the mansion's history.

Step past the cemetery gates and peer behind the veil with Wistariahurst as our volunteers channel the spirits of Holyoke's ancestors, leading you through the meandering paths of Forestdale Cemetery. Established in 1860, Forestdale Cemetery is a serene yet beautiful landscape and the final resting place for many of Holyoke's founding families, politicians, and other notables who helped breathe life into the city. Guests will walk amongst the monuments, markers, crypts, and crosses to discover the mystique of Holyoke's vibrant heritage.

Join us for an evening of family activism in celebration of Banned Books Week! This legislative session, two Freedom to Read bills are being voted on by the MA House and Senate. Similar to the bills recently passed in Rhode Island and Delaware, these pieces of legislation will grant protections to libraries, bookstores, and creators who write and produce books. We are lucky to have these bills being co-sponsored by local legislators, so let them know how much we appreciate it. Let’s flood the offices with our support for the freedom to read!

Join the Northampton Parent’s Center for their Welcome Back Picnic on Thursday 10/9 from 4pm - 6pm on the Forbes Library lawn! NPC will provide pizza, but feel free to bring your own picnic supplies.

Wistariahurst Museum is thrilled to announce our upcoming exhibit this October, Identity in Ink: The Art of Tattooing. Despite its more modern surge in interest, the art of tattooing is one of the ancient traditions in human history.

Join Jeanne Douillard as she presents a unique approach to a relatively unknown tale. In her talk, “Silent Presence The French in New England,” she weaves together her personal narrative with the historical story, attempting in its essence to get at the heart of a people. The results of her research and personal reflections offer unique insights into the story of an “invisible” people. With compassion and understanding, she unravels a long and complex history in an attempt to make it understandable for all.

Wistariahurst Museum is excited to welcome senior artists into the gallery for “Creating COA Artists” this August 2025. This exhibition features artists involved in Holyoke’s senior center and Council on Aging. Participating artists have anywhere from months to decades of experience, and this exhibition celebrates artists at all stages. A variety of mediums are featured in this exhibition from watercolor, to acrylic, to ceramics and textiles. This diverse selection of artwork shows both a range of experience and mediums, coming together to form a truly unique exhibit.

Get ready to soak up the sun and get creative with our Summer Bling & Beads workshop happening on August 2nd at Wistariahurst Museum! This hands-on event is being hosted by Trudy Monson of Gem's Creations and she's inviting guests of all skill levels to explore the art of jewelry with a fun, summer theme!

Wistariahurst Museum is egg-static to bring back our Sensory-Friendly Egg Hunt for a second year! This festive egg hunt focuses on gentle exploration and enjoyment. Designed for families with sensory sensitivities, this egg-ceptional event is tailored so every bunny feels comfortable and welcome. This year’s egg hunt will take place indoors throughout the halls of Wistariahurst. Weather permitting, outdoor games and activities will add some egg-stra fun to the event. Each child can gather six eggs and choose prizes ranging from candy to fidget toys. Hop to it and register for one of the available time slots.