10 Things Berkshire County Should Give Up for Lent

Embrace a positive mindset this Lent by dropping ten habits that can improve the spirit of Pittsfield and Berkshire County.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

With Ash Wednesday coming tomorrow, the author suggests that Pittsfield and Berkshire County could stand to make a few more meaningful sacrifices this Lenten season. The article lists 10 things the region should officially give up for the next 40 days and maybe longer, including complaining about Pittsfield while refusing to leave, acting surprised when it snows in April, and getting mad at old people with New York license plates.

Why it matters

The article aims to encourage a more positive and self-reflective mindset in the Berkshire County community during the Lenten season, a time traditionally associated with sacrifice and spiritual renewal. By letting go of certain ingrained habits and attitudes, the author believes residents can improve their overall outlook and appreciation for their local area.

The details

The 10 things the article suggests Berkshire County should give up for Lent are: 1) Complaining about Pittsfield while refusing to leave, 2) Acting surprised that it snowed in April, 3) Getting mad at old people with New York license plates, 4) Asking when North Street will be redesigned again, 5) Acting like Williamstown is a different country, 6) Checking the Berkshire Eagle comments section for mental health, 7) Telling tourists everything is a "hidden gem", 8) The Great Barrington parking Facebook argument, 9) Acting excited to see James Taylor at Tanglewood for the 50th time, and 10) Complaining about the speed hump on Holmes Road.

  • Ash Wednesday comes tomorrow.

The players

Pittsfield

A city in Berkshire County, Massachusetts.

Berkshire County

A county in western Massachusetts known for its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and tight-knit communities.

North Street

A main street in Pittsfield that has undergone multiple redesigns over the years.

Williamstown

A town in Berkshire County, Massachusetts, home to Williams College.

The Berkshire Eagle

A local newspaper serving Berkshire County.

Great Barrington

A town in Berkshire County, Massachusetts known for its lively downtown and ongoing parking debates.

James Taylor

A renowned singer-songwriter who frequently performs at Tanglewood, a music venue in the Berkshires.

Holmes Road

A road in Pittsfield, Massachusetts that has a speed hump that some residents have complained about.

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The takeaway

By letting go of certain ingrained habits and attitudes during the Lenten season, the Berkshire County community can cultivate a more positive and self-reflective mindset that celebrates the region's unique charms and strengthens its sense of community.