Go on a Treasure Hunt on Sept. 15 @ Lockwood Mathews Mansion

On Sunday, September 15, 2019, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum will hold its 12^th annual Old-fashioned Flea Market.  The event will offer flea market enthusiasts some of the best deals in Connecticut and an opportunity to hunt, bargain, and buy at more than 70 booths selling antiques, repurposed furniture, collectibles, jewelry, crafts, household items, clothing, toys, and specialty farm-to-table items. The Mansion will manage a White Elephant table, highlighting items generously donated by supporters and offered to the public for as little as $1.

Trendy food trucks will include Cousins Maine Lobster, recently featured on Shark Tank; The Chamo, serving outstanding Venezuelan beach cuisine; and Lucky Dog Food Truck featuring specialty hot dogs, while a classic and antique car show featuring the Connecticut Seaport Car Club will entertain shoppers of all ages.

The event will be chaired by LMMM Volunteer and antiques dealer Steve Balser who has been a Flea Market vendor for the past 20 years. Mr. Balzer said, "The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum annual Flea Market continues to attract visitors from all over Connecticut and beyond.  A wide variety of dealers from New England and New York display their antiques, crafts, special edibles and other treasures.  Everyone is bound to find something that makes their day!" The Museum will be open for $5 mini-tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Museum Shop will be open for business and feature new merchandise and a broad selection of gift ideas including fabric totes, monogrammed dishtowels, designer jewelry, elegant scarves, books, and other museum-centered accessories.

All proceeds will benefit the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum. The Museum has donated several booths to area nonprofits who will share their message and mission with attendees.

Vendor spaces are 10x16 ft. and cost $75 per space. Food vendor booths are $150. Deadline is September 1. Vendors wishing to reserve a space or purchase an ad in the program booklet distributed to all visitors should email info@lockwoodmathewsmansion.com or call 203-838-9799 ext. 4. 

The Museum’s 2019 Season is made possible in part by generous funding from LMMM’s Founding Patrons: The Estate of Mrs. Cynthia Clark Brown and the Museum’s Distinguished Benefactors: City of Norwalk and The Maurice Goodman Foundation.

The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum is a National Historic Landmark.  For more information on schedules and programs please visit www.lockwoodmathewsmansion.com, e-mail info@lockwoodmathewsmansion.com, or call 203-838-9799.

Evening Tour of Palace Theatre Waterbury - Sept. 18

The Palace Theater in Waterbury held its first-ever evening tour in July and as a result of the enthusiastic response (more than 115 people attended) is offering another opportunity to tour the theatre on Wednesday, September 18 at 6:30 p.m. 

The ninety-minute tour includes exploring areas of the venue not seen by the public and detailed information about the history and architecture provided by well-versed tour guides. Admission to the tour is $5.00 per person and can be purchased online at www.palacetheaterct.org, by phone at 203-346-2000, or in person at the Box Office, 100 East Main St. in Waterbury.  Anyone with mobility challenges is asked to reserve their tickets in advance so that the tour guides can make accommodations in advance to ensure a pleasurable experience for all.  Groups of ten or more are also asked to contact the Box Office in advance to register their group. 

During the tour, attendees are led through nine decades of the theater’s entertaining history including facts and some lore, while viewing and learning about the stunning architecture and backstage magic related to the Palace story. In addition to exploring the public spaces, tour takers will have the opportunity to visit hidden areas that are off-limits to patrons attending shows or events, such as the green room, wig room, and star dressing rooms.  

Guests on this tour can even stop to take a selfie at the stage door. Tour takers will also be able to experience the thrill of walking across the stage and viewing the venue’s hidden backstage murals featuring show motifs painted and signed by past performers and Broadway touring company cast members. Guests will also browse a collection of the theater’s pre-restoration photos, in addition to viewing elements from the Palace’s Tenth Anniversary History Exhibit, which include a visual timeline of historic milestones dating back to 1922, as well as original theater seats from the 1920s.

The walking tour covers five floors of history and architecture, including grand staircases from the 1920s. Elevator access is available for guests with challenges walking or climbing stairs or other health concerns.

 For general information about the venue visit www.palacetheaterct.org. 

For the Love of Oysters @ the Norwalk Oyster Festival Sept. 6,7,8

The event is held at Veteran’s Park, adjacent to Norwalk Harbor on Seaview Avenue in Norwalk, CT. Admission for adults is $10 on Friday, $12 on Saturday and Sunday. Senior tickets are $10 all days. Children 5-12 year’s old are $5. Children under 5 and U.S. military personnel on active duty are free. Tickets can be purchased online at www.seaport.org.

The Eastern Oyster was designated as the state shellfish in 1989.  It is a bivalve mollusk that grows naturally in Connecticut’s tidal rivers and coastal bays and is cultivated in seeded beds in Long Island Sound by oyster farmers. Norwalk has had a long history with oysters so it is no surprise the members of the Norwalk Seaport Association has organized an annual festival to fete this delicious shellfish.  September 6,7, and 8 marks the 42nd annual Norwalk Oyster Festival that is held in Veterans Park on Seaview Ave. in Norwalk.

The Norwalk Oyster Festival is the perfect place to slurp fresh Norwalk oysters. Norwalk's oysters are known for their freshness, sweet briny flavor, and buttery plump meats. If you are new to oyster slurping you might want to start small.  Although there is no incorrect way to slurp an oyster, we recommend that you slurp the meat with its "liquor" and give it two or three good chews.  Salt and brine hit first and is followed by a sweet buttery flavor that tastes of the sea.  Oysters come with a variety of accouterments such as lemon, cocktail sauce or red wine vinegar, it's up to you how you want to garnish your oyster.

The Norwalk Oyster Festival offers a wide array of attractions the whole family will enjoy, including continuous entertainment by local musicians and national acts such as Brian Howe, former lead singer for Bad Company and Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot, a vast array of food at the International Food Court, a $25 unlimited ride wristband on Sat. & Sun.,  100 plus art and craft vendors, and several special entertainment venues that round out three days of fun. Best of all, entertainment is included in the cost of admission.

Tickets, Parking & Metro-North
The event is held at Veteran’s Park, adjacent to Norwalk Harbor on Seaview Avenue in Norwalk, CT. Admission for adults is $10 on Friday, $12 on Saturday and Sunday. Senior tickets are $10 all days. Children 5-12 year’s old are $5. Children under 5 and U.S. military personnel on active duty are free. Tickets can be purchased online at www.seaport.org.

Festival Hours: Friday, Sept. 6, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, September 7 from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., and Sunday, September 8 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For those that want to take the train, Metro-North is offering a discount package with free shuttle service from the train station to the Oyster Festival.
Free parking and shuttle service available from Calf Pasture Beach and Norwalk City Hall. Ample parking right over the bridge in the Maritime Parking Garage and other lots.

About the Norwalk Seaport Association
The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, education and public awareness of Norwalk’s maritime environment and heritage.  The Seaport Association and its volunteers are solely responsible for organizing and financing the Oyster Festival.  In addition to the Oyster Festival, the Norwalk Seaport Association owns Sheffield Lighthouse and its volunteers maintain the lighthouse and grounds as a museum and nature preserve. For more information, visit www.seaport.org. or call (203) 838-9444.

Oyster History

Oysters were an important source of food for Native Americans and became a staple in the diet of early European settlers who learned how to harvest them from Long Island Sound.  By the 18th century, many natural oyster beds were depleted so laws were enacted relating to the designation of individually parceled oyster grounds.

The 1800s is when oystering boomed in Norwalk and by the mid.-19th century, Connecticut led oyster seed production north of New Jersey. By 1911 Connecticut's oyster production peaked at nearly 25 million pounds of oyster meat, that was much higher than nearby states of New York, Mass. and Rhode Island. Demand for Norwalk oysters increased and with the expansion of the railroad's new markets were opened up.  Norwalk was the largest producer of oysters in Connecticut and had the biggest fleet of oyster boats with steam power in the world, and Norwalk became known as "Oyster Town".

Economic depressions, coastal human population, industrialization, and marine traffic lead to a decline in oyster production.  In 1997 and 1998 80% of the state's oysters were destroyed because of a spike in the water temperatures that resulted in a naturally occurring parasite.

Today, marine biologists have teamed up with local oystermen to develop hardier parasite resistant oysters and ways to improve water quality in order to create a sustainable breeding and farming environment for oysters.  Because of the success of these programs, there is a resurgence in renewed oyster growing operations like Copps Island Oysters based in Norwalk.

Behind the Scenes @ Institute for American Indian Studies Sept. 7

Each September the Institute for American Indian Studies hosts a clambake, this years is on Sept. 7th. A new highlight of this year’s clambake is a very special behind the scenes tour at the museum. On this exclusive occasion, guests will join collection staff members for a memorable visit into the depths of the Institute’s vault for an intimate view and discussion of some of the rarely seen objects in the museum’s extensive collection. This special experience gives participants a sneak peek not only at lesser-seen objects but also an idea of how these objects are carefully stored and cataloged. Visitors will enter the world of archeology and learn how objects tell the story of different indigenous cultures and how they lived. 

Another highlight of this special tour is the chance to meet the members of the Thunderbird American Indian Dancers that will be performing at the clambake. This is a special opportunity to discuss the importance of dancing, regalia, and music to indigenous peoples with members of this highly esteemed dance troupe. The Thunderbirds were founded in 1963 to keep alive the traditions, songs, and dances that would have otherwise been lost. This one of a kind backstory tour experience is an additional $50 per person. The proceeds from this one of a kind tour will go toward the reconstruction of the Algonkian Village at the museum.

This year, the Institute for American Indian Studies clambake will be held on September 7 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the River Walk Pavilion, on 11a School Street in Washington Depot, Connecticut. 

A highlight of this clambake is a performance by the Thunderbird American Indian Dancers, the oldest resident Native American dance company in New York formed in 1963.  The Thunderbirds have toured across the United States, and in Japan, Canada, and Israel bringing a greater understanding of American Indian people through dance.

The cost of this traditional clambake is $50 per person; please call the museum, 860-868-0518 or email general@iaismuseum.org by September 6 to reserve your spot.  On line click here​.

This annual event is held every September to honor the Founders of the Institute for American Indian Studies and to celebrate Connecticut’s indigenous people and the bounty harvested from Connecticut’s waterways.

The Wonders of Bird Migration @ Flanders Nature Center

Have you ever wondered about the best way to observe autumn bird migration?  Wonder no more because on Sept. 13 at 6 p.m. Flanders Nature Center located in Woodbury, Connecticut is hosting a fascinating program on the wonders of bird migration with Fran Zygmont.

This program will uncover the ancient myths of bird migration and explain the newest technologies used today to track bird migration.  Examples of how the latest research helps us understand the whys and how’s of migration as well as the threats and challenges birds encounter during migration will be discussed.

A highlight of the program are the tips that will be shared with participants that will enhance their own journeys of enjoying, observing and tracking birds this fall in Connecticut. 

                                           About Flanders

Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust acquires, preserves and manages land; and uses the land to promote understanding and appreciation of nature, art and the environment. Founded by artist, farmer and environmentalist Natalie Van Vleck, Flanders provides a variety of environmental education programs year-round, designed to bring a deeper understanding of art, nature and farming to children, youth and adults in the Woodbury region and throughout Connecticut

Circus Spectacular @ Norwalk Oyster Festival September 6, 7, 8, 2019

Historically, when a three-ring circus-like Barnum and Bailey's "Greatest Show on Earth" rolled into town by train, crowds young and old were enthralled. Although the iconic Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey’s Circus closed its’ 146 year old run in 2017, the Seaport Association decided to put on a special series of circus performances to dazzle Norwalk Oyster Festival attendees. Mike Reilly, President of the Seaport Association says, “We thought it would be wonderful to connect festival guests with the entertainment that is woven into the fabric of American culture. We know that glittering acts of captivating performers still please crowds today, which is why the Seaport Circus Spectacular is just one of the many new entertainment highlights folks will find at the festival this year.”

National acts from Circus Circus in Las Vegas, and star performers from the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus and others will entertain young and old at the Norwalk Oyster Festival, on Friday, Sept. 6, Saturday, Sept. 7, and Sunday, Sept. 8. Reilly notes that, “Sunday is family day when kids 12 and under get in free. We are also offering $25 unlimited ride wristbands on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. making this event super affordable for families.”

This magical circus show includes several astounding acts like the death-defying performance created by the Dominguez Family. They have been amazing audiences around the world with riders challenging the Globe of Death, a giant metal cage, as well as their uncanny skill in navigating the inverted high wire. This 8th generation family from Columbia that broke a world record in 2004 in Ontario by having eight motorcycles in the Globe of Death at one time will blow your mind! This energetic act is perfect for all ages because it always delivers the “wow” factor...so get ready to sit at the edge of your seat and be amazed!

Hurling, whirling, twirling hula hoops combined with the amazing acrobatic performance of Nicole Taylor Weiss that defies the eye is another act in the Seaport Circus. Nicole grew up traveling the world with her circus parents learning the business of entertainment from a very young age. Nicole’s Hula Hoop show is high-energy fun at its best. Weiss has been performing for Circus, Circus, Vargas and Cirque Musica, and with Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus. This performance gives audiences the chance to see real artistry of incredible stunts, athleticism, and gymnastics. Let's just say, you will be "wowed"!

An all-around family favorite, the Hog Diggity Dog Review is also part of the Seaport’s Circus. A second-generation circus performer, Hans Klose works with 20 dogs and four pigs. The performing pigs, Roscoe weighing 750 pounds, and Shelton weighing around 700 pounds were part of Klose's act when he worked for Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus. Klose travels throughout the country with his animals in a specially made RV that keeps them totally pampered. Hans care and love for his animals is apparent in his laugh out loud routine that will charm audiences young and old. 

Games, rides, and many fun activities can be found at Kids Cove. There is face painting, and pint-sized carnival games, plus cotton candy, popcorn, and candied apples round out the fun.

Tickets

The event is held at Veteran’s Park, adjacent to Norwalk Harbor on Seaview Avenue in Norwalk, CT. Admission for adults is $10 on Friday, $12 on Saturday and Sunday. Senior tickets are $10 all days. Children 5-12 year’s old are $5. Children under 5 and U.S. military personnel on active duty are free. Tickets can be purchased online at www.seaport.org.  

Festival Hours: Friday, Sept. 6, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday, September 7, from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m., and Sunday, September 8 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

For those that want to take the train, Metro North is offering a discount package with free shuttle service from the train station to the Oyster Festival.

Free parking and shuttle service available from Calf Pasture Beach and Norwalk City Hall. Ample parking right over the bridge in the Maritime Parking Garage and other lots.

About the Norwalk Seaport Association

The Norwalk Seaport Association was founded in 1978 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, education and public awareness of Norwalk’s maritime environment and heritage. The Seaport Association and its volunteers are solely responsible for organizing and financing the Oyster Festival. In addition to the Oyster Festival, the Norwalk Seaport Association owns Sheffield Lighthouse and its volunteers maintain the lighthouse and grounds as a museum and nature preserve. For more information, visit www.seaport.org or call (203) 838-9444. 

Savour Litchfield Hills

Once again this year, TownVibe and Litchfield Magazine is hosting Savor Litchfield on Sunday, Sept. 8 from 1 pm to 4 pm at South Farms in Morris. Foodies and other fun-loving folk can enjoy tastes and sips from more than 20 restaurants and specialty markets from the Litchfield area, all in the beautiful surroundings of the 90-acre South Farms in Morris. In addition to fine cuisine, craft cocktails, artisanal wine, craft beer, and sweets, there will be live music by the Switch Factory, local business pop-up shops, a mixology session by Litchfield Distillery, and an art tent for kids by Art Room Atelier.

Litchfield Distillery brand ambassador and award-winning mixologist Dimitrios Zahariadis will provide a special mixology session. He will build three delicious cocktails perfect for late summer and early fall, sharing tips that can help people take their cocktails to the next level.

The restaurant and spirits list is still growing but to date includes BritsBrand, Ciesco Catering, Community Table, Fifth State Distillery, Hopkins Vineyard, John’s Cafe, Josh Cellars, Litchfield Distillery, Market Place Tavern Litchfield, Mayflower Inn & Spa, Mine Hill Distillery, Spring Hill Vineyards, Sunset Meadow Vineyards, Sweet Lab Confections, The BakeHouse of Litchfield, West Shore Seafood, White Horse Country Pub & Restaurant.

They will be creating an array of delicious and diverse options for participants. Cuisine ranges from sustainable and seafood-focused to old-school Italian comfort food to handmade caramels. The event will also offer various wines, beers, and spirits to create the perfect ensemble—all available for one ticket price. Local businesses that will be on hand include The Spa at Litchfield Hills, Byrde + the b, J. McLaughlin, Oliphant, Forsythia Skin Care, and Shop Cathy B.

Pre-purchased general admission is $50, which includes food, drink, and entertainment all afternoon. A VIP pass is $100 and provides food, drink, entertainment, private parking, and access to a lounge with TV and food service. Children 15 and under are $20. Day-of-the event tickets are $60 for general admission and $110 for the VIP lounge. Tickets can be purchased at savorlitchfield.com.