A combination entertainment/moral-education event that originated in Chautauqua, New York, in the 1870s, the Chautauqua movement spread to rural communities across the country, including the Methodist summer community in Northampton known as Laurel Park, whose grounds were developed with the ideals of the movement in mind: a place to gather and create an open air “university of ideas” focused on lifelong learning through nature, music, oration and the arts.
While a century ago Laurel Park might draw as many as 3,000 to 4,000 people to listen to popular speakers and performers, today, it’s a small condominium community off Routes 5 & 10 near the Hatfield town line. But residents of the colorful summer cottages that have been converted to year-round homes have been working in recent years to make Laurel Park once again a destination for music, theater and other cultural events.
Case in point is the three-day revival of the Chautauqua this weekend. Events begin Friday, 7-9 p.m., in Laurel Park’s Normal Hall with a “Rise Up Singing” sing-along with Nicholas and Peter Warren, followed by S’mores at the Friendship Fireplace.
“Chautauqua Day” itself is Saturday and will feature an art show and sale by Artists of Laurel Park, along with art activities for kids (3-6 p.m.) plus music by American Harmony, Radio Free Earth, Josh & Kim Wachtel and Mark Herschler (5-8 p.m.).
Events conclude on Sunday with “The Surprising Natural and Cultural History of Laurel Park,” a slide presentation and guided walk led by naturalist Laurie Sanders. Meet at 11 a.m. in Normal Hall for coffee and bagels.
All events occur rain or shine. Donations requested to support Laurel Park programs and maintenance.