Take your family to the Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley

A recent study concluded that marriage equality has helped Massachusetts earn $111 million since 2004. The state recently celebrated the five-year anniversary of recording its first same-sex marriage license; and - because of this - same-sex couples are now 2.5 times more likely to move to Massachusetts.

Why not visit Massachusetts with your family - and enjoy a liberal, relaxed, welcoming environment?

The Connecticut River passes through a region in Western Massachusetts known as Pioneer Valley. The area consists of three beautiful counties. The city of Springfield, college towns of Northampton and Amherst - plus some impressive historic villages are thriving in the Valley.

Family attractions like arts and culture, awesome outdoor recreation and great shopping help make the Pioneer Valley a consummate destination for a long weekend or full vacation. Fish, boat, bike, hike and camp during the spring and summer. You'll find winter sports during certain months too. Getting around the region is easy, thanks to major interstate highways 90 and 91, as well as scenic country roads.

Out In The Park at Six Flags New England has been a major event for the GLBT community for over a decade. Six Flags is located in Agawam, Massachusetts. Over 10,000 people attended last year, and this year will be the 2nd Annual Private Party at the amusement park. Bring your family to Out In The Park this year, September 20. Purchase an Out in the Park Day Package online for $39.15 which includes park admission, standard parking, a souvenir Kodak photo and all-you-can-eat buffet from 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. Or purchase Out in the Park admission only for $25.00. Buy now at these Early Bird rates. Need a ride? Hop on to one of the Out In The Park Shuttles provided by Yankee Line. Departing from Boston and Providence. Additional charges apply, and you must also purchase an event ticket.

Michael Jordan is part of the Enshrinement Class of 2009 at Springfield's Basketball Hall of Fame. The Class of 2009 will be enshrined during festivities September 10-12. The 2009 induction ceremony will mark the 50th anniversary for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. According to its website, Springfield is the birthplace of basketball, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame promotes and preserves the game of basketball at every level worldwide - professional, collegiate, men and women.

Yankee Candle Village - in South Deerfield - is one of New England's most popular destinations. The Village offers a unique shopping, entertainment, and dining experience. Explore the largest selection of Yankee Candle fragrances and styles. Stroll through the Bavarian Christmas Village, Nutcracker Castle, and Home Store. Try the freshly made fudge and other sweet treats in the Fudge Shop. And guests can dip their own candles in the Candlemaking Museum. Yankee Candle Village is open daily.

Visit the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, in Springfield, Massachusetts. Theodor Seuss Geisel was born in Springfield, and the town is considered inspiration for most of his work. Sculptor Lark Grey Dimond-Cates, who is also Geisel's step-daughter, created the bronze sculptures of Dr. Seuss and most of his characters for the Springfield Library & Museums Association.

And stop by Deerfield's Memorial Hall Museum & Children's Museum - which is presented in the former Deerfield Academy 18th century brick school building. You'll find American antiques - dolls, furniture, art, portraits, and Native American artifacts - displayed in nineteen galleries. Open daily May through October, 11AM - 5PM.

Look for museum-quality crafts, art and sculpture at the Paradise City Arts Festival, Memorial Day Weekend - May 23, 24 & 25 - at Three-County Fairgrounds, Route 9, Northampton, MA. 275 exhibitors from over 40 states! If you miss Memorial Day Weekend, there'll be another major art show October 10-12, 2009.

And don't miss the Eastern States Exposition, 1305 Memorial Avenue, West Springfield, MA - September 18 through October 4. Also known as The Big E, New England's Autumn Tradition and the largest fair in the northeast - with top name entertainment, major exhibits, The Big E Super Circus, New England history and agriculture, animals, rides, shopping, and a daily parade.

Pioneer Valley welcomes everyone and invites your family to visit any time.

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