Community Fest 2025

Celebrate 65 years of BCC!

Saturday, Aug. 16, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
BCC Main Campus
Free admission

BCC is committed to providing universal access to our events. Contact foundation@berkshirecc.edu or 413-236-3071 to request disability accommodations.

Event Registration

Some events require pre-registration. Sign up to save your spot!

Community Fest poster

Join us for Community Fest

ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ú College (BCC), the first community college in the Commonwealth, is celebrating its 65th anniversary as the ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ú's community college — where access to higher education for all is our priority. To celebrate, BCC is hosting Community Fest on campus and everyone is invited!

Campus Map (PDF)

Food, Entertainment and Activities

Food and Beverage

  • Food, beer and wine

    All day

    • BB's Hot Spot – Melville path
    • Copsicle and Winston – North Lot
    • KJ Nosh – Melville path
    • Krispy Kone – Paterson Field House
    • La Chalupa and La Enchilada – Melville path

    12 – 4 p.m.

    • Balderdash Wine Cellars – Orchard Lawn
    • Big Elm Brewing – Orchard Lawn
    • Hot Plate Brewery – Orchard Lawn

Music

  • Bands and musicians

    Bands, musicians, performances all day long!

    Amphitheater (rain plan: Room K111)

    • 10 – 11 a.m.: Brian Hailes
    • 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Ron Ramsay
    • 12 – 1 p.m.: Laura Cabrera, Gael Berthelly and Liberty Ortiz
    • 1 – 3 p.m.: DJ Seth P.

OLLI at BCC

  • A Taste of OLLI at BCC

    The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at BCC is a dynamic community offering 200+ programs annually — courses, lectures, trips, and more. Join us throughout the morning to experience sample classes and connect with OLLI members and staff.

    G12

    • 10 a.m. – Deborah Reinisch | "The Language of Film" Discover how camera work, sound, and performance shape a film's meaning and emotional impact. We'll break down a classic movie to understand why it sticks with us.
    • 10:30 a.m. – Douglas Cooper | "Thomas Paine's Unique Life, Times, and Writing" Explore the bold life and revolutionary writings of Thomas Paine — an often-overlooked yet critical figure in America's founding. This session includes discussion of his most influential texts.
    • 11 a.m. – OLLI Info Session with Carol Allman-Morton, Executive Director Learn more about OLLI at BCC, our programs, scholarship program, ask questions, and enjoy light refreshments!
    • 11:30 a.m. – Gordon Josephson | "Milestones in Medicine" Examine one of history's breakthrough moments in medicine and its lasting impact. A fascinating glimpse into how medical advances have shaped modern life.
    • 12 p.m. – Noel Staples Freeman | "African Rooted Dance" Experience the rhythms, movements, and cultural significance of African-rooted dance in a welcoming, all-levels session. Explore how music and movement connect to tradition and wellness.
    • 12:30 p.m. – OLLI at BCC Social Time Enjoy a cold drink and mingle with fellow lifelong learners, before you grab lunch at the food trucks nearby.

Activities

  • Schedule

    All day

    Alumni Tabling and Raffle – location: Amphitheater

    Tags: Connections

    Stop by and say hello to our Alumni Association! Update your contact information, enter our raffle, and pick up some free alumni swag — while supplies last!

    Art Exhibit – location: Koussevitzky Art Gallery

    Tags: Exhibit

    Enjoy works on display by artist Kate Hamilton, featured in the gallery throughout the event.

    Build-a-Bird – location: F102

    Tags: Recreation, Kid-friendly

    First-come, first-serve, while supplies last! Create your own stuffed falcon to take home — our beloved mascot Burke brought to life!

    Crafts Table – location: Orchard Lawn

    Tags: Recreation, Kid-friendly

    Take a break and get creative. Color a page, make a bookmark, or enjoy a hands-on craft at our arts table.

    Falcon's Art – location: Robert Boland Theater

    Tags: Recreation, Kid-friendly

    Join our community mural project. Help paint a pre-outlined backdrop that will become a collaborative work of art for all to enjoy!

    Enrollment 101: Start at BCC – location: One Stop Enrollment Center

    Tags: Educational

    Drop by the One Stop Enrollment Center for questions about applying to BCC, completing your FAFSA, exploring financial aid, and meeting with an advisor — no appointment needed!

    Free weekend access to Paterson – location: Paterson Field House

    Tags: Athletic, Recreation

    Enjoy complimentary use of the Paterson pool and fitness center all weekend long!

    Gene Expression: Choose Your Own Adventure – location: start at the Library

    Tags: Educational

    Take a self-guided scavenger hunt exploring DNA transcription and protein translation with hands-on activities highlighting real cellular functions using BCC's science resources.

    Let's Play – location: F203 Education Lab

    Tags: Educational, Kid-friendly

    Explore hands-on play stations with open-ended materials that spark creativity and problem solving for children and families — plus tips for parents to encourage play at home.

    Chair Massage with the Massage Therapy Program – location: Connector

    Tags: Educational

    Relax with a student-provided chair massage, offering a quick and refreshing break during the event.

    Meet the Critters That Call Hoffmann Home – location: Hoffmann Environmental Building

    Tags: Educational, Recreation, Kid-friendly

    Tour the Hoffmann Environmental Center to learn about and interact with the plants and animals that live there. Discover their care, origins, and the importance of environmental stewardship.

    SGA Lawn Games – Two locations: Quad center circle and Orchard Lawn

    Tags: Recreation, Outdoors, Kid-friendly

    Drop in anytime to enjoy classic lawn games set up by the Student Government Association. Fun for all ages!

    Soccer Tournaments – location: Paterson Turf Field

    Tags: Athletic, Recreation

    pre-registration required to play; all are welcome to watch! Enjoy exciting soccer tournaments throughout the day.


    10 a.m.

    Pilates Class – location: Paterson Basketball Court

    Tags: Athletic, Recreation

    Join us for a one-hour, all-levels Pilates session focused on building core strength, improving flexibility, and enhancing overall wellness.

    "Free Community College" information session – location: F139

    Tags: Educational, Workshop

    Join this one-hour session with BCC Admissions to learn how to qualify for free community college and get answers to all your questions.


    10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

    Learn About Physical Therapy (PTA) – Paterson Field House

    Tags: Athletic, Kid-friendly

    Stop by the PTA table at Paterson for interactive demos and info about BCC's Physical Therapist Assistant program.


    10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

    Pickleball Tournament – location: Paterson Outdoor Pickleball Courts

    Tags: Athletic, Recreation

    pre-registration required to play; all are welcome to watch! Compete in or join in as a spectator at our pickleball tournament.

    Funny Face Game – location: Education Lab F203

    Tags: Recreation, Kid-friendly, Stress Relief

    Create hilarious faces by adding eyes, mouths, and more — while learning about the Student Support Center's resources that empower and include all students.


    10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

    BCC Archive Open House: The History of BCC – location: Library

    Tags: Educational, Exhibit

    Explore interactive displays of BCC's history with yearbooks, photos, and student publications. Join in identifying faces and stories from the past!

    Campus Tours – location: One Stop Enrollment Center, on the hour from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

    Tags: Educational

    Join a guided tour to explore the campus, learn about its history, and discover key highlights.

    Child ID Project – location: Fire Road, near North Lot

    Tags: Outdoors, Kid-friendly, Educational

    Visit the Child Identification Project booth, hosted by the ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ú County Sheriff's Office, to receive a free child ID card with photo, retinal scan, and key identifying information. This important safety resource supports families and helps law enforcement in case of an emergency.

    Face Painting – location: Quad – Koussevitzky Walkway

    Tags: Recreation, Kid-friendly

    Transform into a tiger, butterfly, or anything your imagination desires! Fun face, hand, and arm painting is available for kids and adults throughout the day.

    Fire Science for All – location: Fire Road, near North Lot

    Tags: Recreation, Educational, Outdoors, Kid-friendly

    Explore the science of fire safety with hands-on demos, including a fire extinguisher simulator and a kid-friendly smoke maze. Meet Boots the remote-control fire dog and learn more about BCC's Fire Science program from faculty expert Dan.

    Touch a Truck (police, fire, EMS) – location: Fire Road, near North Lot

    Tags: Recreation, Educational, Outdoors, Kid-friendly

    Get up close with firetrucks, ambulances, and police vehicles in this hands-on experience for all ages. Enjoy live demos, meet Winston the therapy dog, and learn how BCC's Fire Science and Criminal Justice programs prepare first responders of the future.

    Workforce Spin and Win – location: Fire Road, near North Lot

    Tags: Recreation, Outdoors, Kid-friendly, Educational

    Try your luck at BCC's Workforce Human Spin Game. Ring the bell, watch the icons fly, and win a prize if you hit the workforce match! This fun, no-cost game highlights BCC's career pathways with real staff standing in as spinning reels.


    10:30 a.m.

    Retiree Tour – location: Meet at Library

    Tags: Connections

    Join fellow BCC retirees for a guided tour of the library and campus, including key program spaces and facilities. Reconnect with colleagues, explore what's new, and see how BCC continues to grow.

    Robotics and Maker Space Demo – location: ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ú Science Commons, K213

    Tags: Educational, Kid-friendly

    Experience the cutting-edge tools of the ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ú Science Commons, including a live robotics demonstration featuring a vision-guided system. Discover how our Mechatronics program prepares students for careers in advanced manufacturing and automation.

    Core Concepts – location: A and P Lab, H415

    Tags: Athletic, Educational, Workshop

    Explore the inner workings of "the core" in this 45-minute interactive session using anatomical models, digital tools, and the Anatomage table. Learn how posture, breath, and muscle systems support spinal stability and overall health.


    11 a.m.

    Alumni in Recovery: Stories, Support and Community – location: M317

    Tags: Educational

    Join BCC alumni and Students for Recovery for a panel discussion on lived experiences with recovery and the power of peer support. Hear from local leaders making an impact in the recovery community, with time for Q and A and open conversation.

    Cooking Demo: Tortellini Salad – location: Culinary Kitchen

    Tags: Workshop, Educational

    Learn how to make a delicious, affordable tortellini salad using ingredients from BCC's Campus Cupboard. Space is limited to 20 participants; pre-registration is encouraged. Attendees will take home a recipe and ingredient kit to recreate the dish at home.

    Integrating Innovative Micro-industrial Technologies into Theatrical Design – location: M101

    Tags: Educational

    This presentation provides an investigation of micro-industrial technologies (3D printing, laser engraving, computer aided design and rendering, and file sharing applications) as it applies to theatrical design. This investigation will be made through examples from current professional projects at theatre companies across the country.

    "Paying for College" Workshop – location: F139

    Tags: Workshop, Educational

    Learn how to make college affordable in this one-hour workshop covering FAFSA, financial aid options, and how to apply for scholarships. Ideal for prospective students and families navigating the college funding process.

    Sweet As Can Bee: The Process of Extracting Honey – ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ú Science Commons, K213

    Tags: Educational, Outdoors

    Watch the fascinating process of honey extraction — from pulling and uncapping frames to spinning and filtering the final product into jars. Enjoy a taste test and learn how BCC's campus hives support our local ecosystem.


    11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

    Drone Demonstrations – location: Lawn in front of Hawthorne

    Tags: Educational, Kid-friendly

    Stop by for live drone demos and hands-on flight opportunities with BCC's drone consultant and adjunct Computer Science professor. Learn how drones are used across industries and at BCC, and even try flying one yourself (weather permitting) — parent or guardian required for participants under 18.


    11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

    Tarot Readings with Ashley – location: Quad – Koussevitzky Walkway

    Tags: Educational, Kid-friendly

    Receive a personalized tarot reading and gain insight into your future and inner self. Ashley is a seasoned tarot practitioner and offers thoughtful, cosmic-themed readings to help you reflect, find clarity, and better understand your personal path.


    11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

    Jam and Recording Sessions – location: Recording Studio, K210A

    Tags: Educational, Recreation, Workshop

    Jump into the recording studio for a fun jam session. Try out microphones, record your own tracks, and take your recording home!


    11:30 a.m.

    Butterflies, Birds and Snakes: A Nature Walk – location: Hoffmann Environmental Center

    Tags: Educational, Recreation, Outdoors, Kid-friendly

    Join longtime BCC faculty member Tom Tyning for a guided nature walk exploring the wildlife that calls our campus home. From butterflies and birds to snakes and beyond, discover the biodiversity that thrives right here in the ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ús.

    Core Concepts – location: A and P Lab, H415

    Tags: Athletic, Educational, Workshop

    Explore the inner workings of "the core" in this 45-minute interactive session using anatomical models, digital tools, and the Anatomage table. Learn how posture, breath, and muscle systems support spinal stability and overall health.

    Kid's Health Promotion Relay – location: Nursing SIM Labs, H319 and H321

    Tags: Educational, Kid-friendly

    Take on a fun obstacle course in BCC's nursing labs designed to challenge both body and mind! Geared toward kids, this activity introduces basic health practices while showcasing the college's Nursing and Health Promotion programs.

    Manipulating Mass Media: A Student Perspective – location: M103

    Tags: Educational

    BCC student Victor Reyes shares his insights on the influence of mass media, drawing from personal research conducted in Professor Dickman's Mass Media course. This student-led talk invites reflection and conversation on media's role in shaping perception.

    Pittsfield's Road to the American Revolution – location: M102

    Tags: Educational

    Join BCC Adjunct History Professor Gordon Roberts for a dynamic presentation on how Pittsfield prepared for and responded to the events leading up to the American Revolution. This engaging session brings local history to life as the nation reaches the 250th anniversary of its founding.

    Robotic Demonstration – ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ú Science Commons, K213

    Tags: Educational, Kid-friendly

    Experience the cutting-edge tools of the ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ú Science Commons, including a live robotics demonstration featuring a vision-guided system. Discover how our Mechatronics program prepares students for careers in advanced manufacturing and automation.


    12 p.m.

    Integrating Innovative Micro-industrial Technologies into Theatrical Design – location: M101

    Tags: Educational

    This presentation provides an investigation of micro-industrial technologies (3D printing, laser engraving, computer aided design and rendering, and file sharing applications) as it applies to theatrical design. This investigation will be made through examples from current professional projects at theatre companies across the country.

    Sweet As Can Bee: The Process of Extracting Honey – location: ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ú Science Commons, K213

    Tags: Educational, Outdoors

    Watch the fascinating process of honey extraction — from pulling and uncapping frames to spinning and filtering the final product into jars. Enjoy a taste test and learn how BCC's campus hives support our local ecosystem.

    Virtual Reality at BCC – Experience two empathy building 360° Documentaries – location: M301

    Tags: Educational, Workshop

    Geared toward high school age and older, this experience features Step to the Line (10 minutes), which offers a powerful look inside the prison system and the shared humanity of inmates and volunteers. Traveling While Black (20 minutes) explores the history of restricted movement for Black Americans and the ongoing need for safe spaces, prompting reflection and dialogue on race and equity.


    12 – 2 p.m.

    BCC Volleyball Jamboree – location: Paterson Gymnasium

    Tags: Athletic, Recreation

    Catch the action as BCC hosts a Volleyball Jamboree, an exciting showcase of teamwork, athleticism and school spirit. Come cheer on the players and learn more about athletics at BCC!

    Burke's Bake Off – County Wide Bakeoff – location: SBA Ground floor

    Tags: Recreation, Kid-friendly

    Showcasing culinary talent from across the county, this sweet and savory bake-off features celebrity judges, great prizes, and community spirit. Proceeds from an event cookbook will support BCC's Campus Cupboard.


    12:30 p.m.

    Manipulating Mass Media: A Student Perspective – location: M103

    Tags: Educational

    BCC student Victor Reyes shares his insights on the influence of mass media, drawing from personal research conducted in Professor Dickman's Mass Media course. This student-led talk invites reflection and conversation on media's role in shaping perception.

    Pittsfield's Road to the American Revolution – location: M102

    Tags: Educational

    Join BCC Adjunct History Professor Gordon Roberts for a dynamic presentation on how Pittsfield prepared for and responded to the events leading up to the American Revolution. This engaging session brings local history to life as the nation reaches the 250th anniversary of its founding.

    Robotics and Maker Space Demo – location: ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ú Science Commons, K213

    Tags: Educational, Kid-friendly

    Experience the cutting-edge tools of the ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ú Science Commons, including a live robotics demonstration featuring a vision-guided system. Discover how our Mechatronics program prepares students for careers in advanced manufacturing and automation.


    1 p.m.

    Being Latina Is.../¿Ser Latina es?... – A Panel by Latinas413 – location: M317

    Tags: Educational

    Join BCC alumni and leaders of Latinas413 for a powerful panel in Spanish and English exploring identity, leadership, and community impact. This session highlights the voices and work of Latinas shaping the ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ús and beyond.

    Butterflies, Birds, and Snakes – A Walk – location: Hoffmann Environmental Center

    Tags: Educational, Recreation, Outdoors, Kid-friendly

    Join longtime BCC faculty member Tom Tyning for a guided nature walk exploring the wildlife that calls our campus home. From butterflies and birds to snakes and beyond, discover the biodiversity that thrives right here in the ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ús.

    "Free Community College" information session – location: F139

    Tags: Educational, Workshop

    Join this one-hour session with BCC Admissions to learn how to qualify for free community college and get answers to all your questions.

    Virtual Reality at BCC – Experience two empathy building 360° Documentaries – location: M301

    Tags: Educational, Workshop

    Geared toward high school age and older, this experience features Step to the Line (10 minutes), which offers a powerful look inside the prison system and the shared humanity of inmates and volunteers. Traveling While Black (20 minutes) explores the history of restricted movement for Black Americans and the ongoing need for safe spaces, prompting reflection and dialogue on race and equity.

    Writing the ºÚÁÏÉçÔÚÏß¹Û¿´Èë¿Ús: An Informal Writing Workshop for Everyone – location: M401

    Tags: Educational, Workshop

    In this relaxed, all-levels writing workshop, participants will read short, published works, explore the art of personal narrative, and respond to creative prompts. No experience necessary — just bring your curiosity and a willingness to write.

    Fall Sports Injury Prevention – location: H303 PTA Lab

    Tags: Athletic, Educational

    Join BCC's PTA faculty for a hands-on session on preventing common fall sports injuries in soccer, football, volleyball and more. Learn signs, symptoms, care tips and key exercises. Perfect for student-athletes, parents and coaches alike.


    1:30 p.m.

    Kid's Health Promotion Relay – location: Nursing SIM Labs, H319 and H321

    Tags: Educational, Kid-friendly

    Take on a fun obstacle course in BCC's nursing labs designed to challenge both body and mind! Geared toward kids, this activity introduces basic health practices while showcasing the college's Nursing and Health Promotion programs.


    2 p.m.

    40 Under Forty Alumni Meet and Greet – location: Beer Tent

    Tags: Connections

    Reconnect and network with fellow 40 Under Forty honorees from across the years in this casual alumni gathering under the beer and wine tent. Celebrate shared accomplishments and build new connections.

    "Paying for College" Workshop – location: F139

    Tags: Workshop, Educational

    Learn how to make college affordable in this one-hour workshop covering FAFSA, financial aid options, and how to apply for scholarships. Ideal for prospective students and families navigating the college funding process.


    2:30 p.m.

    Alumni Social Hour and Group Photo – location: Beer Tent

    Tags: Connections

    Join fellow BCC alumni at the beer and wine tent for a relaxed social hour. Don't miss the group photo — a great way to mark the moment and celebrate your BCC connection!

BCC STEM students in a biology class
BCC STEM student looking through a microscope
BCC simulation lab
BCC Digital Commons room with computers
BCC Scholars Day
BCC Scholars Day conference
BCC recording studio
BCC Players on stage
BCC art gallery mixed-media sculptures
BCC baking contest
BCC STEM students walking on the nature trail
BCC falcon mascot in the Paterson Field House gym
BCC Harvest Run participants with mascot
BCC students playing soccer
BCC One Stop Enrollment Center
BCC students sitting at a picnic table
Construction truck
BCC employees playing cornhole