Spring Blast 2026 | Saturday, March 7
Spring Blast is an annual day of free field trips and campus experiences for UMass Amherst undergraduate students. This year's events take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
Pre-registration is required and will take place on Wednesday, February 18 at the times listed below. When registration begins, sign up links will appear beneath the trip descriptions below.
11:05 a.m. | Hamilton | Wicked | Buena Vista Social Club
12:10 p.m. | Berkshire East Ski Lesson | Boston Bruins | Snow Farm | Explore NYC
1:15 p.m. | Berkshire East Ski/Snowboard | Explore Boston | Kripalu | New England Aquarium
2:20 p.m. | Explore Providence | Museum of Fine Arts Boston | Berkshire East Tubing | Painting at the Makerspace
Tickets for Lewberger and The Adventure Zone will be available starting Thursday, February 19.
Off Campus Field Trips
From sightseeing to skiing, crafting, shopping, snowboarding, hockey, Broadway shows, and more, you'll find a Spring Blast field trip to match your interests!
Boston Bruins vs. Washington Capitals | Boston MA
Travel to the TD Garden in Boston to watch the Boston Bruins face off against the Washington Capitals. Enjoy the game in a private group suite with food and beverages included.
- Departs UMass: 9:45 a.m. | Returns: 6 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 12:10 p.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to TD Garden, Boston: 9:45 to 11:45 a.m.
• Game Time: 12:30 p.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 4 to 6 p.m.
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
This trip includes a lunch buffet with tortilla chips, pico de gallo and guacamole, Caesar salad, chicken tenders, all-beef hotdogs, cheeseburgers, and assorted fresh-baked cookies
Q: Where are the seats located?
Seating is in Rafters Studio #5 on the ninth level. It is accessible by elevator and includes an exclusive entrance and sweeping views. Please review the bag policy prior to attending.
Q: Do I have to return with the group to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What amenities are available on the bus?
A: The bus will have Wi-Fi access, USB charging ports, and private restroom.
Buena Vista Social Club on Broadway | Manhattan, NY
Pick up a free grab-and-go lunch (no meal swipe required) and take a day trip to Manhattan to see the Tony Award winning musical Buena Vista Social Club on Broadway.
- Departs UMass: 10 a.m. | Returns: 8:00 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 11:05 a.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to NYC: 10 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
• Showtime: 2 to 4:10 p.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 4:45 to 8 p.m.
Location
Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre, 236 W 45 St, New York, NY
Note: This production uses theatrical haze and smoke.
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
A: A grab and go lunch is included. Light snacks will be available on the return trip.
Q: Where are the seats located in the theater?
A: Group seats are reserved and chaperones will distribute tickets on the bus to NY according to a printed seating plan.
Q: Is there an elevator in the theater?
A: No.
Q: Does the theater have a dress code?
A: There is no dress code at this theatrer. Dress for comfortably walking outside.
Q: Can I bring my own snacks/beverage into the theater?
A: No outside food or beverage is allowed. All bags are subject to inspection. Anything brought into the theater must fit on your lap or under your seat without blocking the aisle.
Q: Do I have to attend the show and/or return to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What amenities are available on the bus?
A: The bus will have Wi-Fi access, USB charging ports, and private restroom.
Explore Boston | Boston, MA
Pick up a free grab-and-go lunch (no meal swipe required) and spend the day on a self-guided adventure in Boston, MA. Visit one or more of these free attractions or spend the day your way. Bus will drop off near Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
- Departs UMass: 9:30 a.m. | Returns: 7 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 1:15 p.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to Boston 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 5 to 7 p.m.
Drop off point
Near Faneuil Hall
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
A: A grab and go lunch is included.
Q: Do I have to return with the group to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What amenities are available on the bus?
A: The bus will have Wi-Fi access, USB charging ports, and private restroom.
Explore New York City | Manhattan, NY
Pick up a free grab-and-go lunch (no meal swipe required) and take a bus trip to Manhattan’s Empire State Building. Spend the day exploring exciting New York City attractions on your own.
- Departs UMass: 7:30 a.m. | Returns: 7:15 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 12:10 p.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to NYC: 7:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 4 to 7:15 p.m.
Drop off point
Empire State Building, 20 W 34th St.
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
A: A grab and go lunch is included. Light snacks will be available on the return trip.
Q: Do I have to return with the group to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What amenities are available on the bus?
A: The bus will have Wi-Fi access, USB charging ports, and private restroom.
Explore Providence | Providence, RI
Pick up a free grab-and-go lunch (no meal swipe required) and travel to Providence, Rhode Island to explore all the city has to offer. Bus will drop off at Providence Place Mall, centrally located near downtown.
- Departs UMass: 9:30 a.m. | Returns: 5:30 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 2:20 p.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to Providence: 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Drop off point
Providence Place Mall
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
A: A grab and go lunch is included.
Q: Do I have to return with the group to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What amenities are available on the bus?
A: The bus will have Wi-Fi access, USB charging ports, and private restroom.
Hamilton on Broadway | Manhattan, NY
Pick up a free grab-and-go lunch (no meal swipe required) and take a day trip to Manhattan to see the hit Broadway musical Hamilton.
- Departs UMass: 9 a.m. | Returns: 7:45 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 11:05 a.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to NYC: 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
• Showtime: 1 to 3:45 p.m.
• Travel time back to UMass: 4:30 to 7:45 p.m.
Destination
Richard Rogers Theatre, 226 West 46 Street, New York, NY
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
A: Grab and go lunch is included. Light snacks will be available on the return trip.
Q: Where are the seats located in the theater?
A: Group seats are reserved and chaperones will distribute tickets on the bus to New York according to a printed seating plan.
Q: Is there an elevator in the theater?
A: No.
Q: Does the theater have a dress code?
A: There is no dress code at this theater. Dress for comfortably walking outside.
Q: Can I bring my own snacks/beverage into the theatre?
A: No outside food or beverage is allowed. All bags are subject to inspection. Anything brought into the theatre must fit on your lap or under your seat without blocking the aisle.
Q: Do I have to attend the show and/or return to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What amenities are available on the bus?
A: The bus will have Wi-Fi access, USB charging ports, and private restroom.
Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health | Stockbridge, MA
Visit Kripalu in the breathtaking Berkshire mountains for a day of yoga, mindful outdoor experiences, a nutritious lunch, and healthy dinner.
- Departs UMass: 8:30 a.m. | Returns: 7:30 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 1:15 p.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to Kripalu: 8:30 to 10 a.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
A: Lunch and dinner will be provided. You will order from a menu of options onsite.
Q: Do I have to return with the group to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What kind of transportation will we use?
A: We will be traveling by UMass school bus. There is no restroom available on this bus.
Museum of Fine Arts | Boston, MA
Pick up a free grab-and-go lunch (no meal swipe required) and travel to the Museum of Fine Arts to explore over 100 galleries of art showcasing ancient artistry to modern masterpieces.
- Departs UMass: 8:30 a.m. | Returns: 7 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 2:20 p.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to Boston: 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 5 to 7 p.m.
Drop off point
Boston MFA, 465 Huntington Avenue, Boston
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
A: A grab and go lunch is included.
Q: Can I bring a bag into the museum?
A: Bags smaller than 11x15 inches are welcome and subject to inspection. Backpacks must be carried as a handbag or worn on the front side of the body. Coats may be checked at the complimentary coat check.
Q: Can I join a guided tour?
A: Yes. Plan ahead: Gallery Tours and Talks | Museum of Fine Arts Boston
Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes. Wheelchairs are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Q: What exhibitions will be available that day?
A: View current exhibits and plan ahead for your visit: Museum of Fine Arts Boston | Boston's Art Museum
Q: Can I walk around Boston to explore on my own if time allows?
A: Yes. Be sure to notify your chaperone and allow enough time to return to the bus for departure time back to campus.
Q: Do I have to return with the group to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What amenities are available on the bus?
A: The bus will have Wi-Fi access, USB charging ports, and private restroom.
New England Aquarium | Boston, MA
Pick up a free grab-and-go lunch (no meal swipe required) and travel to Boston where you will visit the New England Aquarium on the wharf. Visit the animals in their habitats, attend a presentation, or watch them being fed.
- Departs UMass: 10:30 a.m. | Returns: 6:30 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 1:15 p.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to Boston: 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
A: A grab and go lunch is included.
Q: What exhibitions will be available that day?
A: View current exhibits and plan ahead for your visit: New England Aquarium in Boston - Protecting Animals & the Ocean
Q: Can I bring a bag into the museum?
A: Bags smaller than 12x12x12 inches are welcome and subject to inspection.
Q: Can I walk around Boston to explore on my own if time allows?
A: Yes. Be sure to notify your chaperone and allow enough time to return to the bus for departure time back to campus.
Q: Do I have to return with the group to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What amenities are available on the bus?
A: The bus will have Wi-Fi access, USB charging ports, and private restroom.
Ski Berkshire East with a Free Ski Lesson | Charlemont, MA
Travel to Berkshire East for a ski day including free rentals, a lift pass, lunch voucher, and a ski lesson before hitting the slopes. This trip is appropriate for beginners and takes place rain, snow, or shine—dress accordingly.
- Departs UMass: 8 a.m. | Returns: 6 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 12:10 p.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to Berkshire East: 8 to 9 a.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 5 to 6 p.m.
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
A: You will receive a meal voucher to order lunch on site. Vouchers cannot be used to purchase alcoholic beverages, regardless of age of student.
Q: Can I sign up for this trip and not take the lesson?
A: No. This trip includes a mandatory lesson with a certified ski instructor. Please register for the ski trip that does not include a lesson if you already know how to ski.
Q: Can I take a snowboard lesson instead?
A: No. A beginner-level ski lesson is the only option offered on this trip.
Q: How should I dress for this trip?
A: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and dress appropriately for cold or rainy weather. Dress in waterproof layers with hat, jacket, gloves, warm socks, and ski goggles if you have them. As the glare off the snow can be bright, you may wish to bring sunglasses and sunscreen.
Q: Why do I have to share my shoe/clothing size with Berkshire East?
A: To make your experience smoother, Berkshire East needs to prepare your rental equipment in advance of your arrival. Berkshire East rental equipment includes skis, poles, boots, and helmet. Students must bring their own goggles, gloves, and waterproof clothing. Socks are required to be worn with rental boots.
Q: Do I have to return with the group to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What amenities are available on the bus?
A: The bus will have Wi-Fi access, USB charging ports, and private restroom.
Ski or Snowboard Berkshire East | Charlemont, MA
Travel to Berkshire East for a day of skiing or snowboarding including free rentals*, lift pass, and lunch voucher. This trip takes place rain, snow, or shine and is for intermediate or advanced level skiers only. If you are a beginner, choose the trip that includes ski lesson.
*Note: you may bring your own snowboard or skis, if preferred.
- Departs UMass: 9 a.m. | Returns: 6 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 1:15 p.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to Berkshire East: 9 to 10 a.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 5 to 6 p.m.
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
A: You will receive a meal voucher to order lunch on site. Vouchers cannot be used to purchase alcoholic beverages, regardless of age of student.
Q: Can I sign up for this trip if I don’t know how to ski?
A: No. This trip is dedicated to those who can ski on their own. If you do not know how to ski, sign up for snow tubing or the ski that includes a lesson.
Q: How should I dress for this trip?
A: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and dress appropriately for cold or rainy weather. Dress in waterproof layers with hat, jacket, gloves, warm socks, and ski goggles if you have them. As the glare off the snow can be bright, you may wish to bring sunglasses and sunscreen.
Q: Can I bring my own ski equipment or snowboard?
A: Yes. The bus storage can accommodate your equipment.
Q: Why do I have to share my shoe/clothing size with Berkshire East?
A: To make your experience smoother, Berkshire East needs to prepare your rental equipment in advance of your arrival. Berkshire East rental equipment includes skis, poles, boots, and helmet. Students must bring their own goggles, gloves, and waterproof clothing. Socks are required to be worn with rental boots.
Q: Do I have to return with the group to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What amenities are available on the bus?
A: The bus will have Wi-Fi access, USB charging ports, and private restroom.
Snow Farm – The New England Craft Program | Williamsburg, MA
Spend the day at Snow Farm in one of four full-day craft classes: Sashiko, wooden spoon carving, handbuilding with clay, or intro to flame working (see descriptions below). Lunch will be served on site.
- Departs UMass: 8 a.m. | Returns: 4:45 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 12:10 p.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to Snow Farm: 8 to 8:45 a.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 4 to 4:45 p.m.
Q: Is lunch included?
A: Yes, a catered lunch will be provided on site.
Q: Do I have to return with the group to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What kind of transportation will we use?
A: We will be traveling by UMass school bus. There is no restroom available on this bus.
Q. What classes will be available?
A: There are four different workshop offerings: Intro to Flameworking, Intro to Ceramics, Fiber Studio – Shashiko, Wooden Spoon Making. See course descriptions below.
Q: Am I guaranteed the class I want?
A: You will rank your preferences, and we will do our best to accommodate your choice.
Class options
Snow Tubing at Berkshire East | Charlemont, MA
Travel to Berkshire East for a day of snow tubing including free admission and lunch voucher. Trip takes place rain, snow, or shine—dress accordingly.
- Departs UMass: 8:30 a.m. | Returns: 4 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 2:20 p.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to Berkshire East: 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 3 to 4 p.m.
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
A: You will receive a meal voucher to order lunch on site. Vouchers cannot be used to purchase alcoholic beverages, regardless of age of student.
Q: Can I sign up for this trip but go skiing or snowboarding instead?
A: No. This trip is for snow tubing only.
Q: How should I dress for this trip?
A: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and dress appropriately for cold or rainy weather. Dress in waterproof layers with hat, jacket, gloves, and warm socks. As the glare off the snow can be bright, you may wish to bring sunglasses and sunscreen.
Q: Do I have to return with the group to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What amenities are available on the bus?
A: The bus will have Wi-Fi access, USB charging ports, and private restroom.
Wicked on Broadway | Manhattan, NY
Pick up a free grab-and-go lunch (no meal swipe required) and take a day trip to Manhattan to see the musical Wicked on Broadway.
- Departs UMass: 10 a.m. | Returns: 8:45 p.m.
- Registration for this trip begins Wednesday, February 18 at 11:05 a.m.
About This Trip
Itinerary
• Travel time to NYC: 10 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
• Showtime: 2 to 4:45 p.m.
• Travel time to UMass: 5:30 to 8:45 p.m.
Location
Gershwin Theatre, 222 W 51 St, New York, NY
Q: What meals are included on this trip?
A: A grab and go lunch is included. Light snacks will be available on the return trip.
Q: Where are the seats located in the theater?
A: Group seats are reserved and chaperones will distribute tickets on the bus to NY. They will have a printed seating plan.
Q: Is there an elevator in the theater?
A: No.
Q: Does the theater have a dress code?
A: There is no dress code at this theater. Dress for comfortably walking outside.
Q: Can I bring my own snacks/beverage into the theater?
A: No outside food or beverage is allowed. All bags are subject to inspection. Anything brought into the theater must fit on your lap or under your seat without blocking the aisle.
Q: Do I have to attend the show and/or return to campus on the bus?
A: Yes. All participants are required to travel to and from the event on the university-provided bus to ensure safety and accountability; leaving the trip early or returning by alternate transportation is not permitted. Students who depart without authorization or fail to follow this expectation will be referred to the Student Conduct and Community Standards Office and may be ineligible for future university-sponsored trips. Failure to return on the bus will result in the student being responsible for repayment for the full cost of the trip.
Q: What amenities are available on the bus?
A: The bus will have Wi-Fi access, USB charging ports, and private restroom.
On Campus Events
Want to have an unforgettable day without leaving the UMass campus? We’ve got you covered!
Lewberger and The Adventure Zone
Do you hunger for heart-pounding action and adventure in a LIVE game of Dungeons and Dragons? Or are you hungry for tacos made by white people?
How about both?
On Saturday, March 7 at noon in Tillis Performance Hall, don your adventuring cap and your funny bone for an afternoon of comedy with Lewberger and The Adventure Zone!
- Free tickets go live on Thursday, February 19!
Lewberger is self-described as the illegitimate love child of Tenacious D and Flight of the Conchords. A trio of talented musicians and comedians, their clever songs like “White People Taco Night” and “Pokemon Pickup Lines” will leave you in stitches as they sing about experiences everyone has, but nobody wants to talk about.
The New York Times Bestselling authors the McElroys are here to make you laugh and cry through the power of roleplaying. Their podcasts, The Adventure Zone; My Brother, My Brother and Me; and The Besties are three long running shows that have delighted millions of listeners. Join Justin, Travis, and Griffin with their dad Clint as they find their fortune and slay an unconscionable number of ... you know, kobolds or whatever.
Whether you’re celebrating March festivities or not, this event is sure to be phantasmal and resplendent!
Painting at the Makerspace
Visit the UMass Amherst Makerspace, the hub of the campus maker community. Tour campus workshop spaces, learn about 3D printing, and join in a painting activity. Spots are limited to 15 students per session.
- Two sessions available: 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
- Registration begins Wednesday, February 18 at 2:20 p.m.