Wistariahurst to Host Summer Play Day for Local Families Aug. 20

HOLYOKE — On Saturday, Aug. 20 from 1 to 3 p.m., Wistariahurst, Holyoke’s center for history, art, and culture, will host a free community event featuring lawn games, crafts, family-friendly tours, and more.

Wistariahurst, the former estate of the Skinner family, includes three acres of formal gardens and grounds, a Holyoke history exhibit, an archival facility, and a preserved historic mansion. The afternoon’s activities will be inspired by the history and features of the site, including the fossilized dinosaur tracks which pave the entryway, the historically inspired rose garden, and turn-of-the-century garden parties.

“As the summer season winds down, we want our gardens and grounds to be filled with families exploring and playing,” said Lisa Nicholson, program coordinator. “Dress up and have a cup of lemonade in the garden. Play a game of croquet or badminton like the Skinner family may have done.”

For more information or to view a schedule of other upcoming events at Wistariahurst, visit www.wistariahurst.org.