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Pittsfield Lights Now 12-Foot Christmas Tree

Events coordinator Jennifer VanBramer says the annual tree lighting has been held since 1945. 

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The city lit its permanent Christmas tree, now 12 feet tall, to dozens of cheering community members on Friday. 

The annual tree lighting ceremony drew adults and children to Park Square as they waited for Santa and Mrs. Claus to arrive. It has been a Pittsfield tradition for 80 years, and a dedicated Christmas tree was planted in 2023. 

"This event has been a long-standing Pittsfield tradition since 1945, and every year it reminds us just how special our city truly is," Recreation & Special Events Coordinator Jennifer VanBramer said. 

"Each light on this tree is a symbol of each of us, our families, our neighbors, our shared hopes. When we come together, we shine brighter. Whether you've lived here your whole life or are joining us for the first time, thank you for being part of what makes Pittsfield such a special place to call home." 

Two children flipped the magic switch that lit the tree after a 10-second countdown. Soon after, Santa arrived on a firetruck and heard gift requests. 

Mayor Peter Marchetti thanked people for coming out on "probably one of the coldest nights of the year. 

Bousquet Mountain Drifters Restaurant Under New Local Ownership

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
05:26AM / Monday, December 08, 2025

The look of the pub isn't changing but the McNinches are planning a redo of the menu.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The restaurant at Bousquet Mountain will reopen under new management.

 

The McNinch Restaurant Group will operate Drifters Bar & Restaurant, opening on Dec. 12. 

 

McNinch Restaurant Group is operated by father and son duo John and Tucker McNinch. They currently own and operate Patrick's Pub and the 101 Restaurant and Bar in the Holiday Inn. 

 

"I think we have a strong understanding of Bosquet's culture, the clientele there, who they're trying to reach, who are with the ski mountain itself as well as the general area," said Tucker McNinch. "It felt like a connection that was meant to happen."

 

The partnership happened quite fast. The group was reached out to in October by Bousquet and will open the restaurant this Friday. 

 

Bousquet General Manager Kevin McMillan said they are excited to start working with them.

 

"John and Tucker have a really great reputation in town. They really understand Pittsfield and Pittsfield market, and we're a local ski area, and our goal is always to try and serve the Pittsfield community. And I just think this is just a perfect partnership between the two organizations," he said. "We're really excited to start working with them."