One of Massachusetts’s Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar

This quirky town in Massachusetts has a surprisingly thriving young social scene, quick access to outdoor activities, and a love for theories that connect the area to one of the most famous Christmas figures outside of Santa Claus himself. He’s green, he’s mean, and he’s got a dream — he’s the Grinch, and he’s available to meet during the local ‘Whobalation’ in December. Welcome to Easthampton, one of the most unusual towns in Massachusetts.

Where Is Easthampton and Why Is It So Unique?

Located in central Massachusetts, just north of Springfield, Easthampton provides an interesting mix between the young and artsy and the old and industrial. As a former mill town known for making buttons and elastics, the town's structure was built around industry. But interest in the town waned until the younger generation realized that Easthampton was a more affordable place to live compared to many other places in Massachusetts. 

The old mill buildings still exist, but they house new spaces such as cafes, markets, restaurants, and all manner of artistic spaces like studios and galleries. It has transformed into a youthful town full of creatives, with a walkable main street bursting with charm, lined with small shops set in 19th-century buildings. It’s not polished, but that's part of its appeal, and the area is beloved by the townsfolk and has become one of the most welcoming spaces one can find in central Massachusetts. 

The Quirky Event That Defines This Town

Easthampton claims to be the inspiration for Whoville from Dr. Seuss’s The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. Now, it’s important to note that there is no actual proof of this, but it is a theory that has been adopted as local lore. It is claimed that Easthampton must be Whoville because Dr. Seuss’s hometown (Springfield) is so close by, and the view from nearby Mt. Tom (a place Seuss did visit), looking down over Easthampton. It is very similar to the view of Whoville from Mt. Crumpit, seen often as the Grinch stared down at the Whos he disliked so much.

As a result, the town has created a popular ‘Whobalation’ held annually in December at Millside Park. Just like in the movies, the Whobalation is colorful, large, and just a bit odd. Both the Grinch and Santa Claus come in for visits and events alongside other townsfolk in costume, the town is laden with decorations and themed food, and there are singing events (including the famous "Welcome Christmas/Fahoo Fores” song). Much of the money raised from the event is donated to local charities, but visitors are also encouraged to bring toys for a toy drive, reflecting how the Grinch stole presents from the Whos and then returned them.

Why This Unique Small Town In Massachusetts Still Flies Under the Radar

Easthampton still flies on the radar for one main reason: location, making it one of the most underrated towns in Massachusetts. Central Massachusetts isn’t exactly popular with tourists. But, the young are starting to realize the benefits of living in a town like Easthampton (mainly due to affordability, especially when compared to the much more popular areas in/near Boston), and these older small towns have begun to transform into a unique, diverse space of old, new, and the unexpected. For instance, although the town was known as a milling town for buttons and is now known for its Whobalation and supposed connection to the Grinch, it’s also becoming well-regarded for its burgeoning brewery scene. All of these factors have led Easthampton residents to believe that tourists will soon be paying more attention to their tiny town. 

Whether or not you’re a Christmas fan, or a fan of classics like the Grinch (or, perhaps, you just like the delightful chaos that follows in the Grinch’s wake), Easthampton has much to offer. This town is like an unpolished gem, where its older aspects make it even more unique and beautiful. Massachusetts locals are beginning to see this, so why not tourists? See for yourself why Easthampton is one of the quirkiest yet charming hidden gem towns in Massachusetts.