Gourd Ornament Workshop @ Institute for American Indian Studies - December 21

 Discover the traditional art of gourd crafting at an in-person workshop on Saturday, December 21 at 1 p.m. at the Institute for American Indian Studies located in Washington, Connecticut. Gourds have been a staple in the Americas for over 8,000 years, serving various purposes from rattles and drink ware, to birdhouses and drums. Today, they shine as unique decorative pieces like vases and ornaments.

 

Now it is your turn to transform a gourd into a stunning ornament. Join the IAIS educators for an enjoyable weekend workshop where you'll dive into the fascinating world of gourds and create a unique, eye-catching ornament to take home. This isn't just any craft session—it's a hands-on adventure with wood burning tools, recommended for participants aged 7 and up.

 

Hurry, space is limited! Secure your spot by pre-registering on our website https://iaismuseum.charityproud.org/EventRegistration/Index/21315. Participation Fee (including materials): $10 for IAIS Members; $20 for Non-Members. For more information, questions or to pre-register events@iaismuseum.org.

 

Ignite your creativity and make this holiday season truly memorable!

 

About the Institute for American Indian Studies

Located on 15 acres of woodland, the IAIS offers educational programs, both permanent and changing exhibits, and a replicated 16^th century Algonkian village. Its research department maintains and extensive archeological and ethnographic collections and conducts archeological digs and other research. Its “Wigwam Escape” escape room offers an opportunity to solve a puzzle while learning about Indigenous life before European settlement. With a focus on “two eyed seeing,” visitors can learn about the history of the American continent that incorporates the more than 12,000 -year history of human habitation. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, Connecticut.

Sweeten Up Your Holidays with Handmade Chocolates!

Get ready to sweeten your holiday season with Thorncrest Farm and Milk House Chocolates in Goshen, Connecticut! This charming farm is crafting pure magic with its handmade, farm-fresh creations, perfect for spreading cheer and delighting chocolate lovers of all ages.

From whimsical Chocolate Santas and Jolly Snowmen to enchanting Snow-Capped Chimneys and intricately molded Chocolate Nutcrackers, their festive collection adds a touch of wonder to any holiday gathering. Imagine a Chocolate Christmas Tree as your centerpiece—both stunning and scrumptious! And let’s not forget their truffles—over 45 flavors, made fresh daily throughout the season.

Looking for a standout gift or stocking stuffer? Santa’s Chimney is a must-have. This white chocolate masterpiece features Santa with his sack of presents on one side and a festive wreath on the other—a unique treat that’s as delicious as it is charming. Another favorite is the Jolly Snowman, standing 3 ¼ inches tall and available in creamy Milk or rich Dark Chocolate. Tuck him into a stocking or place him at each setting on your holiday table for an extra sprinkle of joy.

And the indulgences don’t stop there! Don’t miss the dark chocolate peppermint bark, beautifully molded Nutcrackers, or the irresistible pecan caramel turtle eggs, freshly made in their creamery every day.

Whether you’re gifting, decorating, or treating yourself, Thorncrest Farm’s chocolates are the perfect way to make the season merry and bright. The shop is open now through Christmas Eve, Monday - Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. 

Soar into Winter Fun: Junior Jump Camp At Satre Hill, Salisbury

When the snow starts to fall, there is no better time to embrace the outdoors and try something new and exciting! Once again this year the Salisbury Winter Sports Association (SWSA) is hosting its annual Junior Jump Camp on Friday and Saturday, December 27 and 28 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Satre Hill, Indian Cave Road, Salisbury, Connecticut. This fun-filled introduction to ski jumping is open to children aged 7 and up. This unforgettable two-day event is packed with fun, learning, and just the right amount of thrill.

Does your child have a taste for winter adventure? Love a good challenge? Or maybe, just enjoys being outdoors in the fresh winter air? This camp is tailor made for them.

 Best of all this two-day camp doesn’t require any prior experience. Children participating in this program should bring their own helmet and alpine skis. Although all levels are welcome, beginners will learn the basics of ski jumping including techniques for jumping safety. When participants feel comfortable, they can jump the smallest of jumps on their alpine skis. Jumping equipment is provided at no extra charge when they are ready for it. This experience isn’t just about individual skills it fosters camaraderie, good sportsmanship, and confidence.

 

Affordable Family Fun

 The cost for this two-day escapade is just $50 per child! That’s two full days of instruction, fun, and memories that will last a lifetime. Lunch is also included. To register please email kennethsbarker@gmail.com or visit jumpfest.org. Spots are limited so don’t wait to long to start your children on this winter adventure.

 

About Salisbury Winter Sports Association

The Mission of the Salisbury Winter Sports Association is to acquaint our nearby communities, especially the children, with Nordic ski-jumping, cross country and Alpine skiing, and to teach the skills necessary for their enjoyment and lifelong pursuit. As part of its mission, SWSA hosts and perpetuates the annual ski-jumping competition on Satre Hill to sustain ski jumping in Salisbury and the Eastern United States.

Beecher Memorial Restored On the Litchfield Green

Since 1908, a memorial to the Beecher family has stood in the center of Litchfield. Members of the Litchfield County University Club raised funds for a field stone monument on the East Green, on the site where Lyman Beecher preached between 1810 and 1826.

The group commissioned a bronze tablet and medallion featuring the likenesses of two of Lyman’s children, Harriet Beecher Stowe and Henry Ward Beecher, both of whom were born in Litchfield. (Harriet Beecher Stowe is known best as the author of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” and Henry Ward Beecher was a clergyman and social reformer who supported the abolition of slavery.)

A century later, the memorial was in jeopardy. A widened road and overhead branches accelerated the monument’s deterioration and obscured its visibility. A group of volunteers organized in 2021 to plan for the memorial’s future. The committee, representing organizations and interests across Litchfield, created a restoration plan that prioritized making the memorial more accessible to pedestrians, maintaining the monument’s historic character, and using more durable materials and methods.

The restoration work is now complete. The public is invited to the rededication of the Beecher Memorial on Sunday, Dec. 15, at 2 p.m. at the First Congregational Church of Litchfield (21 Torrington Rd.). The event will begin with welcome remarks and a brief history of the Beecher Memorial, followed by a presentation of the restored monument on the East Green. A reception will follow inside the First Congregational Church. 

The restoration work was generously funded by a grant from the Seherr-Thoss Foundations of Litchfield, with additional support from the Borough of Litchfield, Litchfield County University Club, and Greater Litchfield Preservation Trust. The relocation and restoration of the memorial’s stonework was completed by Litchfield resident and excavation contractor Matt Blasavage. Francis Miller of Conserve Art LLC, a leader in the conservation of monuments and outdoor sculpture, completed restoration of the bronze medallion and plaque.

Illuminate the Night: Join the Full Moon Walk with the Institute for American Indian Studies

Experience the magic of a nighttime winter walk under the last full moon of 2024 at the Institute for American Indian Studies (IAIS) on Saturday, December 14 at 6 p.m. Embrace the whispers of the winter woods, the crisp air, and the scent of evergreens as you embark on this moonlit adventure.

The Magic of the Long Night Moon

This full moon, just before the Winter Solstice, takes the highest and longest path along the night sky. Known as the Long Night Moon, it shines above the horizon longer than most full moons, making this walk particularly special. Participants will walk along beautifully maintained wooded trails under this glistening celestial body, learning the various names Native Americans gave the December full moon and what it symbolized for them.

A Journey Through Time

As you walk, you'll discover how different Native American peoples traditionally used the monthly cycles of the moon and nature’s signs to track the seasons. One of the highlights of this experience is witnessing the beauty of December's full moon firsthand, just as Native American communities have done for centuries. Participants will learn that the Mohawks, among other Native American communities refer to this moon as the Cold Moon, aptly describing the chilly days and nights of the season.

The Perfect Ending

The woodland walk concludes at the recreated 16th-century Algonkian village, where a warm fire, hot chocolate, and traditional stories await. This unique setting provides the perfect atmosphere to reflect on the night’s experiences and the historical significance of the December full moon. Remember to dress for the weather, bring a flashlight, and wear sturdy shoes. If the weather looks iffy, check in with us using the contact info below. Space is limited, so pre-register using the link https://www.iaismuseum.org/event/winter-moon-walk-4 Cost: $5 for IAIS Members, $10 for Non-Members.

About the Institute for American Indian Studies

Located on 15 acres of woodland, the IAIS offers educational programs, both permanent and changing exhibits, and a replicated 16^th century Algonkian village. Its research department maintains and extensive archeological and ethnographic collections and conducts archeological digs and other research. Its “Wigwam Escape” escape room offers an opportunity to solve a puzzle while learning about Indigenous life before European settlement. With a focus on “two eyed seeing,” visitors can learn about the history of the American continent that incorporates the more than 12,000 -year history of human habitation. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located at 38 Curtis Road, Washington, Connecticut.

New Culinary Classes for 2025 at Undermountain Pantry

As the winter chill sets in, there's no better time to warm up with hearty, delicious meals. This season, Undermountain Pantry in Falls Village is offering an exciting lineup of hands-on culinary classes designed to celebrate the art of seasonal eating. From diversifying your cooking techniques to savoring a meal with fellow food enthusiasts, our sessions are a delightful way to expand your culinary horizons. Spots are limited, so reserve yours now!

January 11: Anti-Inflammatory Reset 

January 25: Root Vegetables Deep Dive 

February 1: Hearty Winter Soups 

February 8: Winter Greens Deep Dive 

March 1: Handmade Pasta Workshop 

March 15: Maple Deep Dive

Spring classes will feature foraged foods, a kitchen garden workshop, and more! 

Book your culinary adventure now at https://www.hotplate.com/undermountainpantry

2024 Holiday Market Features Indigenous Artists @ Institute for American Indian Studies December, 7 & 14 and 8 & 15

 Once again this year, the Institute for American Indian Studies located at 38 Curtis Road in Washington is hosting a one-of a-kind holiday shopping experience that celebrates Native American culture. What makes this Holiday Market unique is that it offers both deeply traditional crafts and more contemporary artistic expressions rooted in Native American cultural experience. Vendors and artists represented here comprise a diverse and inspiring array of artists and experts in handmade crafts.

 

The Holiday Market throughout the Institute’s impressive exhibition galleries takes place on Saturday, December 7 & 14 and Sunday, December 8 & 15, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There are so many gifts to choose from including Native American jewelry, paintings, photography, apparel, and candles, to decorative gourds, pottery, rattles, flutes and more at a variety of price points. The chance to talk with the artists who have created these one-of-a-kind objects and to learn about the culture that inspired them makes your gift purchase even more meaningful.

If you are shopping for pottery and decorative items check out Primitive Technologies that showcase wood fired pottery, decorative masks, and unique jewelry, Jeanne Morningstar Kent (Nulhegan Ban, Coosuk-Abenaki) who creates tribal art on gourds, and Eva Newell, a multi talented artist who offers a range of artwork from beadwork to paintings. For music lovers, Allan Madahbee (Ojibwe) is offering handmade Native American flutes as well as paintings and crafts. Shoran Piper, the Clan Mother of the Golden Paugussett Tribal Nation, is offering a variety of items from lotions and herbs to beaded jewelry, and dream catchers. Keith Rood (Metis) will be selling a beautiful selection of leather bags as well as fans, pottery, and stone blade knives, Eddie Cuevas of Taino Trinkets will be offering an array of handmade items, and Native Visions will be have an excellent selection of contemporary and traditional original paintings, limited edition prints, kachinas, Zuni fetishes and more created by Native American artists and craftsmen from the Plains and Southwest. Some vendors may not be present on certain days, so it is best to call ahead for details 860-868-0518. Also, there may be additional vendors participating that are not listed here. 

 The Museum's Gift Shop will be open and brimming with gifts large and small in many price ranges. Here, you will find a distinctive collection of Native American jewelry, including wampum jewelry crafted by regionally located Indigenous artists as well as silver and turquoise jewelry from the Southwest. For foodies, there is a wonderful selection of traditional Native American food products from Sweet Grass Trading Company from the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, and others. The gift shop also has a good selection of books and children’s items.

Although entrance to the museum and the Holiday Market is free, donations are always appreciated. A tour of the museum for a nominal fee is a fun and insightful experience that compliments this unique shopping experience. 

About The Institute for American Indian Studies 

Located on 15 acres of woodland the Institute for American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have a 16th c. Algonquian Village, Award-Winning Wigwam Escape, and a museum with temporary and permanent displays of authentic artifacts from prehistory to the present that allows visitors to foster a new understanding of the world and the history and culture of Native Americans. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road, Washington, CT.