Birds, Sunsets, and Lighthouses—Your Perfect Cruise Awaits With the Norwalk Seaport Association This May!

 May signals the start of an unforgettable season as the Norwalk Seaport Association launches its highly anticipated 2025 cruise offerings. From guided bird-watching adventures for all ages and dazzling sunset cruises to immersive trips to Sheffield Island Lighthouse, there’s a perfect cruise for everyone. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a sunset chaser, or captivated by Connecticut’s maritime history, these experiences are the ideal way to celebrate spring.

Bird-Watching Cruises: A Spring Spectacle on Long Island Sound

This spring, birding aficionados are in for a treat with guided bird-watching cruises, starting Sunday, May 4th, and followed by outings on May 11th and May 25th. Each excursion departs promptly at 7:30 a.m. from the Seaport’s Dock at 70 Water Street in Norwalk, with a return around 10 a.m. Tickets can be conveniently booked online

As these eco-styled cruises traverse Long Island Sound—part of the Atlantic Flyway, a crucial migratory route—birders may spot seabirds and shorebirds up close. A knowledgeable guide will accompany each cruise, pointing out both migrating and nesting species, creating an enriching experience for bird lovers of all levels. One particularly unique highlight is the opportunity to spot birds at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge on Sheffield Island, home to nesting herring and great black-backed gulls. With its diverse habitats and stunning avian populations, this is a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts. 

 

Additional birding cruises are scheduled for Sunday, June 8th, and June 22nd, offering even more chances to witness spring's vibrant migration season. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars—this adventure will surely be one for the books!

 

Sunset Cruises: A Picture-Perfect End to Your Day

For those seeking a more relaxed yet equally captivating adventure, the Norwalk Seaport Association’s Sunset Cruises are not to be missed. Running from May 21st to May 25th and May 28th through May 31st at 6:30 p.m., these two-hour cruises glide through scenic Norwalk Harbor and into Long Island Sound. Passengers will enjoy breathtaking views of Norwalk’s islands and landmarks, including three historic lighthouses—Peck’s, Green Ledge, and the iconic Sheffield Island Lighthouse. As the captain’s mate shares stories of the harbor’s rich history, passengers can sip on wine and other beverages and enjoy snacks they bring aboard. Just remember to bring plastic cups and openers to make your evening celebration seamless! Sunset cruises will be offered daily and weekends through August. For your tickets and more information click here.

Sheffield Island Lighthouse Excursions: Fun for the Whole Family

On Saturday, May 24th and 31st, and Sunday, May 25th, the Norwalk Seaport Association is also offering three-hour excursions to Sheffield Island Lighthouse, with daily and weekend trips continuing through August. These tours, available at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., include a narrated journey through Norwalk Harbor, a view of three lighthouses, and a one-hour stop on Sheffield Island. Guests are invited on a guided tour of the lighthouse, and to enjoy a picnic lunch at the pavilion or on beach, and to explore the trails of the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. This family-friendly adventure is the perfect way to combine history, nature, and relaxation. For tickets click here.

 

Whether you’re an avid birder, a history buff, or simply looking for a picturesque way to spend the day with friends and family, the Norwalk Seaport Association’s 2025 cruise season offers an array of experiences that blend natural beauty, maritime heritage, and the joys of the season. Secure your tickets today at seaport.org and embark on a journey you’ll never forget!

About the Seaport Association

The Seaport Association in Norwalk was founded in 1978 by a group of local citizens who had the vision to revitalize South Norwalk and preserve Norwalk’s maritime heritage. The Seaport Association offers a cultural, environmental, and historical journey to the Norwalk Islands. The Sheffield Island Lighthouse and the Light Keeper’s Cottage provide a unique historical and educational venue that strives to increase awareness, appreciation, and consideration for the environment and how the preservation of historic buildings contributes to our quality of life. The combination of the Lighthouse and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled opportunity to educate children of all ages and adults about the importance of preserving Long Island Sound, our environment, and our maritime heritage.

 

Step Back in Time with Open-Fire Cooking Mother’s Day Weekend! at The Glebe House

Ever wonder how early New England settlers cooked up a hearty meal after a long day in the fields? Now’s your chance to find out! Join the fun at the Glebe House, in Woodbury on Saturday, May 10th from 12:00–3:00 PM at the Glebe House Museum for a hands-on, open-fire cooking workshop with the legendary Frontier Mess Chuckwagon. This unique experience is the perfect way to kick off your Mother’s Day weekend—with a little history, a lot of flavor, and maybe even a touch of nostalgia for Mom’s home-cooked meals.

During this fun and interactive workshop, you'll learn how to build and cook over a fire like a 19th-century trail cook, discover the tools of the trade (hint: there’s a lot of cast iron involved), and even help prepare a delicious meal and dessert right over the flames. With space limited to just 18 participants, you’ll get plenty of one-on-one time and a chance to savor the full pioneer experience.

Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or just in the mood for something different, this workshop promises to be both educational and entertaining. Pre-registration is required, so grab your spot now! Tickets are $40 for Museum Members and $45 for Non-Members. Visit the website at 

www.glebehousemuseum.org to register and get ready to cook like it’s 1849!

Celebrate 100 Years of History—Gatsby Style

As if that wasn’t enough reason to visit, the Glebe House is marking a major milestone—100 years as a house museum! Join the celebration on Friday, June 27 at 6 p.m. at Aria in Prospect for an unforgettable evening themed “The Great Gatsby.” Expect an elegant night of live music, delectable food and drink, a signature cocktail, and exciting silent and live auctions. Dress to impress and toast to a century of preserving history in style. For tickets and more info, visit https://www.glebehousemuseum.org/general-4
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A Legacy Worth Celebrating

Built around 1750, the Glebe House stands as a testament to Colonial craftsmanship and enduring community spirit. Rescued and restored in 1923 under the guidance of Henry Watson Kent, the visionary behind the American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, it opened to the public just two years later in 1925. Today, it continues to tell the stories of early America—one tour, one exhibit, and one unforgettable experience at a time.

 

 

Revolutionary Battles: Lexington and Concord A Free Public Lecture Presented by the Middlebury, CT Historical Society

The Middlebury Historical Society invites the community to an enlightening evening exploring one of the defining moments in American history. On Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 6:00 PM, join us at the Shepardson Community Center Auditorium (1172 Whittemore Road, Middlebury) for “Revolutionary Battles: Lexington and Concord”, a lecture by renowned historian Dr. Francis Michael Coan. This educational event is free of charge and open to the public.

Step back to the early hours of April 19, 1775, when tensions between colonial Minutemen and British troops erupted into armed conflict in Lexington and Concord. In this fascinating presentation, Dr. Coan will use his extensive knowledge and compelling storytelling to illuminate how these initial skirmishes catalyzed the American Revolution. His expert analysis will offer insight into the military strategies employed and the broader significance of these battles in galvanizing the colonies toward independence. 

 Dr. Coan, Professor of History Emeritus at Tunxis Community College, is a returning favorite at the Middlebury Historical Society, presenting a popular lecture series in Fall 2024. Known for his dynamic and accessible style, Dr. Coan brings clarity and depth to the complex forces that shaped the Revolutionary era. 

 This is a unique opportunity to gain a richer understanding of America’s path to sovereignty. Join us for an evening of history, insight, and inspiration as we delve into the events that marked the beginning of a nation.

Norfolk Earth Forum 2025: A Celebration of Nature and Community April 25 – April 27

 Mark your calendars! From April 25–27, 2025, the charming town of Norfolk, CT, will host the Norfolk Earth Forum 2025: "Our Glorious Northwest Corner: Celebrating the Connectedness of All." This inspiring three-day 8-event forum, presented by a collaborative of local organizations*, promises a rich lineup of activities centered on biodiversity, conservation, and our shared relationship with the natural world. “The Norfolk Earth Forum brings together experts, artists, and community members to address the critical biodiversity challenges facing our region and to celebrate our profound interconnectedness with all living beings,” said Erick Olsen, Pastor at Norfolk Church of Christ Congregational, which founded the first forum in 2024.

 

The forum kicks off with a special exhibition, "Imperiled Species in Our Community: The Biodiversity Crisis At Home," running from April 10–30 at The Hub. This unique exhibit, on loan from the Salisbury Association, shines a spotlight on local endangered species and showcases an educational poster created by the Norfolk Land Trust. Whether you’re a seasoned conservationist or simply curious about the environment, this exhibition offers a powerful lens into the biodiversity challenges right in our backyard.

 

The forum festivities officially begin Friday, April 25, with an opening reception and lecture by Tim Abbott, Conservation Director of the Housatonic Valley Association, who will discuss the national significance of local conservation efforts. The evening continues with a screening of "A Road Not Taken," a fascinating documentary on Jimmy Carter’s solar energy initiatives.

Saturday, April 26, offers something for nature enthusiasts of all ages, with three events. Start your day with the "Books & Boots" nature walk, inspired by Peter Wohlleben's The Hidden Life of Trees, and join Bina Thomson and Hartley Mead as they explore the lives of trees in the South Norfolk Woodlands. Later, Dr. Mike Zarfos, Executive Director of Great Mountain Forest, will lead a walk through spring wildflower blooms. Finally, Craig Repasz from Lights Out Connecticut will shed light on the critical Connecticut Bird Atlas project and the urgent need for bird conservation.

 

On Sunday, April 27, families can enjoy a delightful Children’s Crafts Workshop creating toad houses, followed by an educational program on reptiles and amphibians with the Roaring Brook Nature Center. The weekend concludes on a magical note with Paul Winter’s breathtaking concert, "This Glorious Earth," at the Church of Christ. Blending music with nature’s sounds, Winter’s performance celebrates the beauty of life on Earth, accompanied by an introduction to the concept of bioregionalism by Keetu Winter from Wellspring Commons.

Whether walking among Norfolk’s wildflowers, learning from passionate conservation leaders, or simply soaking in the melody of nature itself, the Norfolk Earth Forum 2025 promises to be an unforgettable event that inspires both action and appreciation for the world around us. Visit www.norfolkhub.org/norfolk-earth-forum for more information and registration details, or look for event flyers with QR codes around town. Together, let’s celebrate the beauty of our glorious Northwest Corner!

 

*Groups supporting the Norfolk Earth Forum: Church of Christ Congregational, Aton Forest, Great Mountain Forest, Norfolk Conservation Commission, The Hub, Norfolk Land Trust, Norfolk Library, Norfolk Rails to Trails Committee, Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, Manor House Inn, National Iron Bank

What’s Your Heirloom Worth? Find Out with Expert Appraisals & a Free Museum Tour of Matthews Curtis House

How many of us have inherited items from loved ones or acquired second-hand treasures, only to wonder what they mean or if they’re worth anything at all? It’s all too easy to leave these items collecting dust, their stories untold, and their potential unrealized. We imagine the lives they’ve touched, the journeys they’ve made, but without the expertise, those stories remain frustratingly out of reach.

Antiques Appraisal Day is here, hosted by the Newtown Historical Society on April 12 from 12 noon to 4 pm to help solve that mystery. For just $10 per item, you can finally answer that nagging question: What do I really have? Whether it’s a piece of jewelry, an antique book, or even a photograph of a larger item, you’ll get a professional evaluation from seasoned experts like Brian Corcoran of The Auction Barn, Tucker Frey of Tucker Frey Antiques, and John Renjilian of Pages of Yesteryear. These are people who don’t just appraise; they unlock history.

But the magic doesn’t end there. Just across the street, the Matthew Curtiss House will transport you back to colonial Newtown. This beautifully preserved 18th-century Saltbox home will be open to the public, giving you the rare opportunity to step into the shoes of those who walked these same streets centuries ago. Wander its rooms, marvel at its artifacts, and let history come alive before your eyes. What’s even better? Admission to the Matthew Curtiss House Open House is completely FREE—though donations are always appreciated to support the Newtown Historical Society’s incredible work. Whether you leave with a newfound appreciation for your family heirloom, a deeper connection to Newtown’s history, or simply a fun afternoon shared with friends and neighbors, Antiques Appraisal Day promises to be a day of discovery and delight. Because every treasure has a story. And every story deserves to be told. For more information visit http://www.newtownhistory.org. The Matthews Curtis House Museum is located on 44 Main Street, Newtown, CT.