For Immediate Release: September 12, 2022
Press Contacts:
Lindsey Schmid, 1Berkshire | 413.499.1600 x131 | lschmid@1berkshire.com
Laura Brennan, BRPC | 413.442.1521 x14 | lbrennan@berkshireplanning.org
Cecilia Hirsch, Williams College | 413.597.4587 | hirschcecilia7@gmail.com
ArtWeek Berkshires 2022 Begins Thursday!
County-wide Festival Explores Cultural Scene Through Open Studios, Live Performances, Family Treasure Hunt
Berkshire County, MA (September 12, 2022) – Berkshire County is living up to its reputation as the top cultural hub for medium-sized communities across the U.S., hosting ArtWeek Berkshires for the second year in a row. With 120 participants countywide – surpassing last year’s numbers – the festival will jumpstart an exciting fall season of cultural activity. ArtWeek runs September 15th through the 25th and is led by the county’s five Cultural Districts (Great Barrington, Lenox, North Adams, Pittsfield, and Williamstown) with marketing and promotional support from 1Berkshire.
Unlike the summer season, when tourists flock mostly to large well-known and loved venues, ArtWeek Berkshires is drawing people to communities as small as Sandisfield and as large as Pittsfield for under-the-radar and off-beat experiences.
“I can’t think of a more fun and engaging way to explore the Berkshires than through the arts,” says Cecilia Hirsch of the Williamstown Cultural District and co-chair of ArtWeek Berkshires. “Right now, we’re all craving community and connection. ArtWeek Berkshires has that and more. It’s a festival that’s easy to access all over the region and mostly free. It’s about welcoming as many people as possible to engage with culture as makers, performers and spectators.”
As a special bonus this year, the festival organizers have partnered with local startup CozQuest for a treasure hunt focused on 15 family-friendly events. Visitors that check-in at three locations using the LoveLocalBRKs app on their smartphones will be automatically entered into a raffle for Berkshires’ themed gifts such as a $25 surprise from Robin’s Candy’s in Great Barrington, T-shirts for the whole family from LiveLoveBerkshires, and a voucher from Shakespeare & Co. in Lenox.
“Arts and culture are major contributors to Berkshire County’s economy, and one that ArtWeek Berkshires is sure to advance,” says Elizabeth Nelson, Director of Marketing at 1Berkshire. “The majority of our visitors come specifically for our museums, historic properties, and visual and performing arts,” she notes. “A deep love of creativity is in our DNA as a region, and we’re committed to expanding our reach to younger and more diverse audiences.”
To build your own ArtWeek Berkshires 2022 vacation or staycation adventure over the September 15th to 25th festival, visit https://berkshires.org/artweek-berkshires/.
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About 1Berkshire (https://1berkshire.com/)
A county-wide organization focused on economic development and promotion of the region as a preferred place to visit, to live, and to grow a business. It provides programs that connect businesses with each other and with potential customers and works to develop future leaders and support entrepreneurs. For more information, visit 1Berkshire.com.
About Downtown Great Barrington Cultural District (www.gbculturaldistrict.org)
Home to a dynamic, concentrated group of locally owned and operated businesses with something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking world-class performing arts, a farm-to-table meal, free family activities, or a uniquely curated shopping experience, Great Barrington has what you’re looking for. Email culturalgb@gmail.com
About Lenox Cultural District (www.lenox.org/lenox-cultural-district/)
Established in 2019 in recognition of Lenox’s unique blend of small-town charm with world class culture and arts. Downtown Lenox has a high concentration of galleries, all within walking distance of each other. A full cultural experience in Lenox includes sampling our rich selection of restaurants and shops. Email lenoxcultural@gmail.com
About North Adams Cultural District (www.explorenorthadams.com/item/north-adams-downtown-cultural-district/)
A center of cultural, artistic, and economic activity nestled in the heart of downtown. Its goals are to advance tourism, historic preservation, and business and job development by amplifying the thriving creative community that is uniquely North Adams. Email tourism@northadams-ma.com
About Pittsfield’s Upstreet Cultural District (www.cityofpittsfield.org/departments/arts_and_culture/)
The lively arts and entertainment hub of the Berkshires. Enjoy art, theatre, dining, music, film, shopping, spoken word and more within a mile section of the heart of the Berkshires. Go to discoverpittsfield.com for more information. Email cultural@pittsfieldch.com
About Williamstown Cultural District (https://destinationwilliamstown.org/)
Highlights world-renowned visual and performing arts, academic and cultural attractions, and local artists. Nestled in the northwest corner of Massachusetts, the town is a unique mix of extraordinary art, theatre, ideas, history, and nature. Email info@williamstownchamber.com
About Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (https://berkshireplanning.org/)
The official region-wide planning agency in Berkshire County providing comprehensive planning services to municipalities which include land use, transportation, community and economic development, housing, public health, and environmental planning. BRPC promotes regional collaboration among communities and works to increase coordination between all levels of government. Email lbrennan@berkshireplanning.org