Friday, January 10, 2020

Experience the Wolf Moon Institute for American Indian Studies, January 11


A walk in the winter woods with the educators of the Institute for American Indian Studies on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut is an ideal way to celebrate the first full moon of 2020. This walk will begin at 7:30 p.m. on January 11 and traverse the beautifully wooded trails on the grounds of the Institute. This event is free for Museum Members and $5 for non-members.



A full moon occurs every 27 days and this particular full moon is the Wolf Moon that just happens to coincide with an eclipse, the first of six to happen this year. The shadow of this penumbral lunar eclipse (only visible in Alaska, Greenland, and parts of northern and eastern Canada) will give the moon a tea-stained color for a few hours. Astronomers estimate the moon will peak around 7:30 p.m. The winter sky is also bright with constellations, especially Orion's belt so be sure to bring your binoculars or telescope. 



Many Native American communities call the January full moon the Wolf Moon because wolves are heard more often at this time of year. It was thought that they howled because they are defending their territory and locating pack members to go hunting. Other traditional names for the January full moon include the Cold Moon, the Old Moon, and the Great Spirit Moon.


A highlight of the walk will be to learn about the phenomena that people in the Eastern Woodlands have been experiencing for thousands of years. After this walk, you will look up at the full moon with a new appreciation of it and, new knowledge that has been passed down through the centuries. The woodland walk ends at the newly restored and built 16th-century Algonkian village where a warm fire and hot chocolate will greet hikers. 

About The Institute for American Indian Studies
Located on 15 acres of woodland acres the Institute For American Indian Studies preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. They have the 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.






Tuesday, January 7, 2020

See Majestic Eagles Swoop, Glide, Dip, and Dive At Annual Eagle Watch In the Litchfield Hills

An outdoor buffet in winter may not sound tempting to most of us, but to our national bird, the regal American bald eagle, it is a rare treat. When fishing grounds in their homes further north freeze over, these graceful birds make an annual journey to the Shepaug Dam on the Housatonic River in Southbury, in Connecticut's Litchfield Hills.


They favor this spot because the turbulent waters of the dam not only prevent freezing but push fish to the surface, easy pickings for eagles who can swoop down and feast on their favorite dish. Thrilling to see in full flight, the majestic bald eagle can measure 34 to 43 inches in length with a wingspan of six to seven and a half feet.
Their flight speed is between 36 to 44 miles per hour. Everyone is invited to view these fascinating winter guests at the Eagle Observation Area near the Shepaug Housatonic Hydroelectric Station. An organized eagle watch takes place every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through March 12.
Admission is free but since space is limited reservations are required; group and individual reservations are accepted. In addition to eagle viewing,the CT Audubon will host birds of Prey show on Saturdays throughout the viewing season. This year for the first time reservations can be made on-line 

The shelter, maintained by FirstLight Power Resources, is located 1000 feet from the river, affording safety for the eagles while providing an excellent vantage point. High powered telescopes are set up on tripods for visitors. Knowledgeable Audubon volunteers are on hand to assist in spotting and answer questions about the birds.
The volunteers maintain a helpful website, https://www.firstlightpower.com/recreation/?location_id=397 with information about eagles and recent visitor statistics. Reservations can be made on this site. Nearly 148,000 people have visited the observation area since it was opened to the public in 1986. On an average day in past years, six or seven eagles were sighted, but lucky viewers on the best days in the past have spotted as many as 15 to 21 eagles in action. Chances are best on cold clear days when the surfaces of most other rivers and ponds have frozen. Visitors are advised to dress warmly in layers and to allow plenty of time to wait for the eagle action to begin. 

Monday, December 30, 2019

2020 Holiday Pricing @ Lime Rock through January 2, 2020

If you are a fan of Lime Rock Park, in the heart of the Litchfield Hills, make sure you check out their website by January 2, 2020, for their special holiday pricing.


Tickets for the 2020 Majors are now on sale. Save up to 40 percent on weekend passes and race day tickets and get ready to rev up your 2020. Purchase your tickets online and print them at home to stuff the stocking or add them to a gift basket from the Lime Rock Park Store.

Tickets offered include the touring car festival featuring TC America and Pirelli GT4 America on May 8-9, the Memorial Day Classic featuring Trans Am, SVRA and the Sunday Royals Car Show on May 22-25, the New England Regionals on June 12-13 and the IMSA WeatherTech Sports Car Championship and Michelin Pilot Challenge July 17-18.  A fall favorite, the Historic Festival 38 and Sunday in the Park Concours on Sept. 4-7 is also being offered.

For ticket information  https://limerock.com/HolidayPricing2020

Thursday, December 19, 2019

Make a Native American Ornament @ Institute for American Indian Studies Dec. 22

Recognizing art and crafts, as an intrinsic and essential element of Native American life, the Institute for American Indian Studies​is hosting a  program on December 22, 2019, designed to foster a better understanding of the artistic and oral history of Native American culture. 

If you have kids and are looking for an engaging activity in December, head to the Institute for American Indian Studies on 38 Curtis Road in Washington CT to participate in this series of programs that are sure to entertain and educate. Best of all, these programs are free with the price of admission; $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $6 for children.
On Sunday, December 22 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., the Institute’s Educational Department has organized an afternoon of craft programs that will encourage self-expression. At these workshops, kids will express their creativity by learning about the world that surrounds them and connecting to Native American culture that offers thousands of years of history right in their own backyard. A highlight of this program will be to make a Native American themed holiday ornament.

About The Institute for American Indian Studies
Located on 15 acres of woodland acres 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.

Monday, December 16, 2019

For This Years Gift - Give An Experience – Wigwam Escape


Why give just a gift when you can give an experience...one that will take participants back centuries in the award-winning escape room – Wigwam Escape at the Institute for American Indian Studies located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut.


In an immersive woodland setting with no locks, keys, cell phones, computers, or clocks. Wigwam Escape's thematic puzzles challenge game players to hunt and gather, find water and prepare food similar to how Native people did hundreds of years ago. 

This highly acclaimed escape room was a feature pick for Yankee Magazine’s Travel Summer Guide and awarded  “2019 Best Escape Room” by Connecticut Magazine. This extraordinary escape room was also a recipient of the prestigious Award of Merit, 2019 from the Connecticut League of History Organizations.


Wigwam Escape is the perfect gift for people that enjoy an adventure that challenges and educates at the same time. Best of all it provides a chance to bond with friends and family while using your puzzle-solving skills to beat the clock and escape the room.


Wigwam Escape Room gift certificates are available online at https://wigwamescape.org/book-now. For questions and any additional details call 860-868-0518. This is one gift that friends and family will be talking about for years to come!

About The Institute for American Indian Studies
Located on 15 acres of woodland acres 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.

Friday, December 13, 2019

Ho Ho Ho – The Joy of Gifting with the Seaport Association


With just two weeks to go until Christmas Day, the Seaport Association in Norwalk Connecticut has made sure there is no “Claus” for alarm come December 25 by offering a collection of extraordinary gifts. The Seaport Association has just opened an online store making shopping for friends and family super easy. All gift certificates are available by calling 203-838-9444 or online at https://www.seaport.org/store



There is no time like the present to shop the Seaport’s collection of wonderful gift certificates that are sure to please foodies and those that enjoy on the water cruises with the added bonus of songs, sunset, and a historic lighthouse.

A gift honoring the past with a special Seaport Legacy Brick is always appreciated. The Seaport’s Legacy Brick program allows families and friends to etch their name into the history of Sheffield Island and Sheffield Island Lighthouse. Legacy bricks can be customized and commemorate a treasured individual, a milestone, or immortalize your family name by being part of the walkway entrance to the Lighthouse. Legacy Bricks come in two sizes 4x4 @ $100 and 8x8 @ $199.

For foodies there are certificates for clambakes that take place in the newly constructed timber pavilion during the months of July and August. This gift certificate includes a cruise to Sheffield Island, and an authentic New England clambake set against the backdrop of the historic Sheffield Island Lighthouse on our private island. Clambakes are $79 per person a $65 option is also available. The clambakes take every Thursday night, July –August.


If you have a music lover on your gift list, check out the Acoustic Cruise gift certificate and for those that enjoy sunset on the water the Friday and Saturday night sunset cruises are the ideal way to enjoy a summer weekend. There is also a family four-pack being offered that includes a cruise to Sheffield Island and tour of the Lighthouse and Light keepers’ cottage for two adults and two children for $70.



If you are looking for the truly extraordinary, book the entire island and ferry for your next soiree, corporate outing, or wedding. New this year the Seaport Association is offering a four-hour rental of Sheffield Island including transportation for 49 people at $2,500! If you want to do something truly remarkable, this is it! The Seaport’s staff is happy to assist you with all your catering needs. Why rent a room or banquet hall when you can rent your own private island and boat! https://www.seaport.org/store


Thursday, December 12, 2019

Christmas Cheer @ the Derby Historical Society December 14

On Saturday, December 14 from 10 am - 2 pm the Derby Historical Society located on 37 Elm Street in Ansonia is hosting its annual Holiday Fair and Cookie Walk. 




Join the historical society staff for a cup of hot mulled cider at the David Humphreys House! Visit their gift shop for unique Christmas gifts such as doll clothes, kids toys, and books. Heather’s Korner, Coon Hollow Farm, Owl’s Nest Crafts, Doreen's Crafty Designs, and Wandering Lydia will have their handmade items for purchase as well.

Also at the Cookie Walk this year, the society will be raffling off an American Girl Wellie Wisher, and a wreath with quilted placemats, courtesy of Designs by Debbie.
SANTA CLAUS will be here from 12-2 pm, so bring your camera! Cookies are baked fresh and cost $5.00 per 13 cookies. Call 203-735-1908 for information or visit our website www.derbyhistorical.org

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

Holiday in the Depot

Washington Depot is a village within the township of Washington in the Litchfield Hills and the bucolic business center that consists of many interesting and unusual shops. On December 13 from 6 pm to 8 pm the Village welcomes visitors and residents alike to join in the celebrations.

Photo Credit: Stacie C. Lynch Photography

The public is invited take part in the town’s annual Holiday in the Depot hosted by Washington Parks and Recreation! The festivities will get started with a brief speech by Washington’s First Selectman. Then enjoy the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree and carols sung by the Washington Primary School Chorus. Shortly after, Santa will arrive by a horse-drawn wagon. Then follow Santa inside to tell him your wishes and take a picture. While you’re waiting, make a holiday craft with the help of the Gunn Memorial Junior Library or write a letter to Santa with the WVFD Auxiliary.
Be sure to explore the shops around the Depot for tasty treats and goodies while you browse unique sale items. There will also be hayrides around the Depot! Plus lots more to do and see!
Washington will be glowing bright with holiday lights and cheer. You won’t want to miss this wonderful event!
Also, enjoy Holiday in the Depot @ Judy Black Memorial Parks and Garden
Experience the magic of Holiday in the Depot @ the park on December 13. Presented by Averill Farm, Ericson Insurance Advisors, National Iron Bank, and the Mayflower Inn and Spa, with Sharon Ruchman on piano, playing holiday favorites. Come enjoy music,
entertainment, s’mores and more.

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Get into the Holiday Spirit @ the Historic Merwinsville Hotel

The historic Merwinsville Hotel Museum located in the quaint town of Gaylordsville that is part of  New Milford is hosting its annual Christmas Shoppe on December 6,7,8.  The weekend hours are 10-5 pm.


The Merwinsville Hotel and Museum is transformed into a winter wonderland every year for Christmas in Gaylordsville, a world of snow villages, model trains around the Christmas tree, caroler’s displays of snow globes, nutcrackers, and music boxes.

Art, crafts, jewelry, weavings, birdhouses, and photography by local artists are among the tempting items for sale.  Pick up a fresh Christmas tree and browse through a large assortment of home-made baked goods for sale.



A highlight is the extensive collections of  Dickens Villages, World's Fair Amusement Park Miniatures, the model train, and over 100 wooden nutcrackers.  Kids will enjoy the storytime every Saturday at noon.  Coffee, tea, and the best hot chocolate south of the North Pole are complimentary.

The Merwinsville Hotel is conveniently located 15 minutes from New Milford, Kent, Sherman and the Harlem Valley Railroad Station. For more info click here or call 860-355-3531.

Monday, December 2, 2019

The Nutmeg Ballet Conservatory presents THE NUTCRACKER at the Warner Theatre December 7 & 8, 2019

It would not feel like the holidays without the timeless joy of THE NUTCRACKER, and as part of The Nutmeg Ballet Conservatory’s 50th Anniversary season, the prestigious Torrington institution will unveil an exciting new production of THE NUTCRACKER this year. Presented on the Warner Theatre’s Main Stage December 7 and 8, audiences will be dazzled by this reimagined full-length ballet, complete with new sets, costumes, and choreography.


 All dance roles will feature trainees of The Nutmeg Ballet Conservatory, along with cameo roles performed by children from The Torrington School of Ballet. These aspiring artists come from all over the country to hone their craft and develop their artistry at The Nutmeg. The mysterious Dr. Drosselmeyer will once again be played by accomplished European stage actor Thomas Evertz. Originally conceived by Sharon Dante, this production will feature choreography by The Nutmeg's faculty, led by Artistic Director Victoria Mazzarelli, and is set to Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s musical masterpiece. Additional coaching is provided by Timothy Melady, Susan Szabo, Eleanor D’Antuono, Denise Warner Limoli, Joan Kunsch, and Alexei Tchernichov. 


Melady, The Nutmeg's Ballet Master, has led the production team responsible for bringing to reality the vision of Mazzarelli and scenic designer Roger LaVoie. Additional members of the design team include costume designers Susan Fazzino, Janessa Urwin, and Susan Aziz; lighting designer Brian Sciarra; set construction by American Repertory Theater in Cambridge, MA; and painting by Roger LaVoie Designs/TSDesigns. Performances of THE NUTCRACKER at the Warner are Saturday, December 7 at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm, and Sunday, December 8 at 2:00 pm. Group discounts are available. To purchase tickets, call the Warner Box Office at 860-489-7180 or visit warnertheatre.org.

Friday, November 29, 2019

Cranberry Pond Walk @ White Memorial Foundation Nov. 30

On Saturday, November 30 join Geri Griswold at White Memorial Foundation in Litchfield in the 10th annual walk to Cranberry Pond. This is the perfect activity to work off Thanksgiving Day dinner and enjoy the fresh Connecticut air and the beauty of the White Memorial Foundation in Litchfield.



Nothing could cap off a wonderful “on the cusp of winter” stroll along the spectacular trail Cranberry Pond Trail better than a cup of hot coffee and a thick wedge of Crimson Pie swimming in a pool of thick ginger crème anglaise! 


Meet in the Museum. 2:00 P.M., We’ll drive over to the trailhead together. Please pre-register for this pie-enhanced stroll by calling 860-567-0857 or by registering online: www.whitememorialcc.org

After your stroll head to the Nature Museum that interprets the natural history of the White Memorial Foundation property, and is the focal point of White Memorial’s environmental education program. The museum building was once the summer home of Alain and May White. 


Today you will find hints of the original architecture interspersed with wall-to-wall exhibits that engage and educate all age groups. The grounds surrounding the Museum, historically known as Whitehall, include 2 bird-feeding areas, picnic tables nestled in picturesque settings, and multiple trailheads. A rich variety of habitats are unveiled in this small area. A quick trip down the hill behind the Museum leads you to and around Ongley Pond, where wildlife abounds.

Photos - White Memorial Foundation