Glow Wild Lantern Festival at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo this fall

Journey through a wonderland of illuminated larger-than-life lanterns inspired by our wild world at the Beardsley Zoo this fall. It is a phantasmagorical experience that is fun and educational.

This amazing festival will culminate a year of festivities celebrating the Zoo’s 100th birthday and will be held every Thursday - Sunday from September 15- November 27. The festival will showcase more than 35 large-scale illuminated displays, featuring hundreds of beautiful individual and interactive lanterns. 

Spanning the width and breadth of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo’s 30 acres, guests are invited to walk through glowing corridors. Displays of flora and fauna will light up the night sky, dazzling guests of all ages! The Glow Wild Lantern Festival is designed for everyone to enjoy –whether a family outing, romantic date, or coworker get-together. 

Celebrate Summer 2022 @ Weekend in Norfolk

 

It’s summertime, and that means road trip season. Time to hit the open road and see the sights. For the ideal “nearcation" and the perfect alternative to those hot, crowded city streets, Norfolk, Conn.’s 7th annual Weekend in Norfolk (WIN) is close at hand in beautiful northwest Connecticut. 

WIN is a small-town festival with the perfect mixture of easy family fun and sophisticated things to see and do. Once in town, people slow down and linger over all the activities that are easygoing, friendly and, best of all, mostly free. Everything is close together or just a short walk away through this lovely, historic village; it’s easy to relax and enjoy everything. And WIN offers endless opportunities for summer fun. You can get married or renew your vows on the Village Green, discover the town’s vibrant art and music scene, get soaked playing water soccer, get a 3-card Tarot reading and connect with nature by learning how to fly-fish. At WIN, you and your family and friends will have a “winning” time… because there’s something to please everyone. WIN is ready to welcome you on Friday, August 5; Saturday, August 6, and Sunday, August 7 when Norfolk's red carpet will be fully rolled out! 

Enjoy live music

Highlights - Friday, August 5, 2022 

On Friday, August 5, give your kids the lay of the land, by taking a short walk around Norfolk Green, one of the most beautiful in the state. The fountain at the south end of the green is picture-perfect. The marble fountain was designed by famous architect Stanford White in 1889 and has two basins including one for small animals! Don't forget to stop by the library, the Norfolk Hub, and the Guilded Artisan to view the art shows. A highlight of the day is the stained glass tours. View the intricate windows created by Franz Mayer of Munich at the Immaculate Conception Church from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the beautiful windows at the Battell Chapel created by D. Maitland Armstrong and Louis Comfort Tiffany from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. If you are in a romantic mood, you are invited to get married or renew your vows on the Village Green - bouquets are supplied and a justice of the peace, ring bearers, and witnesses are on hand! The fun continues with an opening reception at the Art Barn Gallery on the magnificent Battell Stoeckel Estate from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. while kids are invited to a hula-hoop event on the Village Green from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. As for music, get ready for a free concert on Station Place by the Grantville Dawgs from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The evening concludes with a ticketed concert at the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival Shed. 

Treasure Hunt at a town-wide tag sale

Highlights - Saturday, August 6, 2022 

For those who didn't get up early to take the Hike-the-Peaks challenge or the self-guided walking tour of Norfolk's historic houses, the fun begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday with the Farmers Market on 19 Maple Ave. This lively gathering offers fresh fruit and vegetables, cooking demos, as well as an interesting array of arts and crafts. New this year, the Farmer’s Market has planned a special event just for kids! Talk about engaging and exciting fun that includes a scavenger hunt, corn hole toss, candy jar guess, face painting, giant bubbles, free hot dogs and sodas for kids, plus prizes! For the outdoor sports enthusiast in your family, don't miss the fly fishing lessons at 9 a.m. and 12 noon with expert fisherman Doug McDevitt who will demonstrate the art of casting and share many insider tips and tricks that will help you land the big one! 

Go to the opening of the Asia-Connecticut Cultural Center

New this year for sleuths and treasure hunters is the town-wide tag sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., maps will be available online and at WIN's information center, 2 Station Place. Another new and exciting event is the grand opening of the Connecticut - Asia Cultural Center, which consists of three floors, each dedicated to one Eastern religious culture including Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist cultures. If your children love water, don't miss the popular fire hose water soccer game that begins at 12 noon at the Town Playing Field on Mountain Road. The day is rounded out by free three-card Tarot Readings by the Healing Nest from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Art lovers will enjoy the tour of stained glass windows at Immaculate Conception, Battell Chapel, and the Church of Transfiguration that begins at the Battell Chapel at 12:30 p.m. There is also a special guided walk of the historic Main Street with the Director of the Norfolk Historical Society Museum at 2 p.m. Afterward, visit the museum to see their exhibit called Main Street: A Look Back 100 Years.

Kids have fun @ WIN

 Saturday night is the Family Fun Day and Movie event ($10 per family) from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Botelle School. The movie will be Disney’s Encanto, which tells the tale of an extraordinary family living in a magical house in the mountains of Columbia. There will be loads of fun for kids including face painting, a bounce house, candy, drinks, snacks, and much more. For classical music lovers, there is a ticketed concert at the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival Shed from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. 

Get fly-fishing tips from experts

Highlights, Sunday, August 7, 2022 

Sunday begins with the Church of Christ Congregational outdoor worship service on the Green from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The art galleries in town will be open all day and stained glass window tours will be offered at the Immaculate Conception Church from 12 noon to 1 p.m. and at the Battell Chapel from 12 noon to 3 p.m. A fly fishing lesson at Wood Creek Pond from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. is perfect for sports lovers and hiking the many trails in Norfolk is a great way to reconnect with the great outdoors. An afternoon highlight for kids is a magic show called “Magic Moments” with Master Magician Brian Lazotte at the Berkshire County Store. And if you are wondering what fun the future holds, don't miss the three-card tarot reading by Healing Nest from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. There is also a special guided walk of the historic Main Street with the Director of the Norfolk Historical Society Museum at 2 p.m. Afterward, visit the museum to see their exhibit called Main Street: A Look Back 100 Years. 

Visit the WIN website for up-to-the-minute details about Weekend in Norfolk -your perfect family road trip to Norfolk, Connecticut. And, don't forget to make sure your cell phone is charged up for Instagrammable photos of good old-fashioned summer fun!

A Little Bit Country and A Lot of Rock and Roll @ The 44th Annual Norwalk Oyster Festival 2022 September 9, 10, and 11

 

“The Norwalk Oyster Festival and the music that we provide, free of charge, with admission, is always highly anticipated and world-class. This year, festival goers will be entertained by a wide variety of musical genres from country to rock and roll from as far as Nashville! We think that many different styles of music are great ways to celebrate the 44th annual Norwalk Oyster Festival…so get ready to party and enjoy! Our volunteers have been working around the clock to make this year’s festival extra special because we know that the Norwalk Oyster is a tradition for so many people – from near and far and that makes us happy. We would also like to give a special shout-out to First County Bank, our main sponsor that helps to make this festival happen,” said Mike Reilly, President of the Norwalk Seaport Association and Chairman of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. For tickets click https://www.seaport.org.

Jana Kramer - Direct from Nashville

Entertainment Line Up 

 Friday, September 9 – Jana Kramer @ 8:30 p.m. 

The festival kicks off with Jana Kramer direct from Nashville who is an actress, an AMC award-winning country music singer, and a New York Times best-selling author. Known for her role as Alex Dupre in the television series One Tree Hill, she started her music career in 2012, with the release of her self-titled debut album, Jana Kramer. Her next album, Thirty-One, released in 2015, met with high accolades from the country music industry and the rest is music history. Seven of her singles charted on Hot Country Songs and Country Airplay, including the top 10 platinum-selling hits "Why Ya Wanna" and "I Got the Boy." Kramer went on to win ‘New Female Vocalist of the Year’ at the 2012 Academy of Country Music Awards and, in 2015, she was nominated for ‘Best Female Vocalist of the Year’ at the ACMs. Kramer continues to record her and folks can listen to her on her award winning iHeart Podcast, Whine Down with Jana Kramer while sipping her recently launched specialty wine, One Brick Wines. 

Alex Shillo kicks off Saturday night

Saturday, September 10, 2022 - Entertainment Line Up Alex Shillo - Singer/Songwriter @ 7:30 p.m. 

To get Saturday night rocking, Alex Shillo takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. with his eclectic brand of rock and country music with a nod to his hero, Bruce Springsteen. Shillo's band is composed of top-notch musicians, that have performed with such artists as Clarence Clemons of Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band, The Four Tops, The Temptations, Johnny Mathis, Gloria Gaynor, and John Cafferty, to name a few. Alex and his band have opened for major acts like Big & Rich, Eric Church, Parmalee, and many others. Shillo finds inspiration from his father and is following in his footsteps. Shillo’s dad was the founder/lead singer/songwriter of the late 70s and 80s band SILVERADO who toured the world with Steppenwolf and others and had hit songs on the Billboard charts. Shillo has been enthralled by music since a very early age and his performances show a depth of style and experience. He is the perfect opener to get Saturday night off to a rocking start. 

Dynamic and Entertaining Mike DelGuidice and Big Shot

Mike DelGuidice and Big Shot Celebrating the Music of Billy Joel & Much More @ 8:30 pm 

Mike DelGuidice, a multi-instrumentalist, dynamic vocalist, singer, songwriter, and recording artist is currently on tour with Rock N Roll Legend Billy Joel. From New York and Billy Joel’s Band, Mike DelGuidice tours with Billy Joel all over the world including every month at the iconic Madison Square Garden, in New York City. While on tour with Billy Joel he shared the stage with Bruce Springsteen, Sting, Bryan Adams, Tony Bennett, Paul Simon, John Mayer, John Mellencamp, Adam Levine, and many others. DelGuidice is scheduled to perform with his band, Big Shot on Sept. 10 at 8:30 p.m. at the Norwalk Oyster Festival. Mike has been featured on The NBC Today Show, CBS This Morning Show, as well as in Rolling Stone Magazine, The New York Times, and CNN, to name a few. 

World-class entertainment @ Norwalk Oyster Festival

Mike DelGuidice and his band, Big Shot is known nationwide for performing a show of astonishing renditions of Billy Joel’s songbook, in addition to songs by Elton John, Van Morrison, Paul McCartney, Marc Cohn, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Eagles, John Denver, James Taylor, Chicago, and a few of Mike’s eclectic original songs, and much more. DelGuidice is a world-class vocalist and can sing just about anything. “We are delighted to bring this world-class entertainer to the 44th annual Norwalk Oyster Festival this year,” said Mike Reilly, President of the Norwalk Seaport Association and Chairman of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. At present, while still touring with Billy Joel, Mike is releasing new music. He has released two albums, “My Street,” and “Miller Place,” and is working on a third. His new song, is “Where Do the Heroes Go.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgjPrFazFaI. Mike also scored the Theme song to Actor/Comedian Kevin James Sitcom, “Kevin Can Wait” with his original song, “Ordinary Guy,” which he wrote, recorded, and produced. https://www.billyjoel.com/news/tune-in-mike-delguidice-ordinary-guy-premieres-tonight-kevin-james-new-sitcom-theme/ Kevin is featured in Mike’s original song video, “Mona Lisa” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TvOZNVW_nsc 

Rock to the "American Led Zepplin with Get the Led Out!

Sunday, September 11 – Get the Led Out @ 5 p.m. 

This year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival wraps up with a bombastic bang featuring “Get the Led Out,” a band that has captured the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin. This band of six accomplished musicians, hailing from Philly, brings Led Zeppelin to the Main Stage in all its mythic glory. Their two hour plus set spans the career of the legendary “Zep” in all its depth and glory with the studio overdubs that Zeppelin themselves never performed live. Whether you like blues-soaked groove-driven rock anthems or more intimate acoustic sounds, by the end of the performance, you will understand why Get the Led Out has been hailed as “The American Led Zeppelin” by fans and music critics alike and has met with outstanding national reviews. 

About the Norwalk Oyster Festival 

Now in its 44th year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the main fundraiser for the Seaport Association and Sheffield Island Lighthouse. This is a three-day festival celebrating the maritime heritage of Norwalk that is held every September. The Norwalk Oyster Festival is known for music, its wide variety of entertainment, family fun, delicious food, children’s rides, and the New England Craft Village.

About First County Bank - Presenting Sponsor First County Bank, headquartered in Stamford, Conn. for 170 years, is an independent mutual community bank with 16 branches in Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, Greenwich, Fairfield, New Canaan, and Westport offering deposit products, mortgages, wealth management, business banking services, and a full array of digital banking products including mobile and online banking. First County Bank has more than 220 employees, assets in excess of $1.7 billion and is a winner of the Hearst Connecticut Top WorkPlaces 2020 award. For additional information, please visit www.firstcountybank.com, or follow us @Firstcountybank on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Seaport Association Offers More Seating On Cruise to Sheffield Island

 

The Norwalk Seaport Association is offering a number of seats at no charge for one adult and one child from Connecticut as part of the Connecticut Summer at the Museum Program. This program is geared toward families exploring the beauty of Connecticut's attractions together. "We have been overwhelmed by the demand and positive response from this program and have made more seating available to meet the demand," said Jerry Toni, Business Manager of the Seaport Association. "We are thrilled to participate in this program this year because it helps us accomplish our mission of educating young people about the importance of Connecticut’s maritime heritage and why preservation is so important." 

Helpful Tips to Make Booking Easy 

There are a few things to keep in mind when booking your tickets at Eventbrite so we have outlined a few helpful tips. 

The child and accompanying adult must be Connecticut residents. This offer is valid for the three-hour cruise to Sheffield Island; the boat departs from the dock on Water Street Wednesday- Sunday at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Reservations must be made online in advance. 

The tickets are not available for special events or sunset cruises. 

Be patient and check back often. Sometimes tickets are booked and then canceled, so availability is fluid. 

In the spirit of this wonderful program, the Seaport Association strives to add additional seating to cruises as inventory becomes available so it is important to check back often. 

When taking the cruise to Sheffield Island don't forget your camera, sunscreen, a picnic lunch, and, most importantly your sense of adventure and fun! For tickets click seaport.org.

Jazz in the Garden @ Torrington Historical Society

 

The Torrington Historical Society is excited to announce its popular ‘Jazz in the Garden’ outdoor concert series set on the lawn of the historic Hotchkiss-Fyler House Museum, 192 Main Street in Torrington. This year’s concert series features highly accomplished jazz musicians from New England and New York, many of whom have previously performed at the Torrington Historical Society. All of the musicians have recorded and performed widely with a variety of jazz greats. 

The series, which will include three concerts, is sponsored by Northwest Community Bank. Attendees should bring a lawn chair or blanket and are also welcome to bring refreshments. Tickets for all concerts are $15 for Torrington Historical Society members and $18 for non-members. Tickets may be purchased by clicking here. In the event of rain, the concert will be held at Five Points Arts Center, 855 University Drive in Torrington. 

New Chordtet will open the summer series on Saturday, July 23rd at 6:30 pm. New Chordtet features Peter McEachern (trombone), Mike DiRubbo (saxophone), Dave Santoro (bass), Tom Melito (drums), Larry Ham (piano), and Dave Ballou (trumpet). The group has found fertile ground in jazz classics by important and under-appreciated composers such as Sonny Clark, Herbie Nichols, Curtis Fuller, Carla Bley, and Roswell Rudd, as well as originals by members of the group. 

The next two performances are the Adam Nussbaum Trio on August 6th and the Kris Jensen Quartet with vocalist Linda Ransom on August 26th. 

About the Torrington Historical Society

The Torrington Historical Society, located at the historic Hotchkiss-Fyler estate, is an active not-for-profit educational organization dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing Torrington's rich and diverse history. The museum operates the Torrington History Museum, the Hotchkiss-Fyler House Museum, and the John H. Thompson Library and Archive and also hosts frequent public programs. To learn more about the Society and membership opportunities, please visit www.torringtonhistoricalsociety.org

Make it a Beach Party to Remember! Sheffield Island @ the Beach July 23, 2022 With the Norwalk Seaport Association

Kick-off your sandals, sink your toes in the sand, and grab a cold drink, listen to the music and the sound of the waves because summer 2022 is here. And, what better way to celebrate than with the Norwalk Seaport Association, right on beautiful Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk. On Saturday, July 23, the Norwalk Seaport Association is hosting an in-person seaside celebration, Sheffield Island @ The Beach from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. 

Culinary Delights, Signature Drinks, Music & More! 

The Seaport Association has whipped up a recipe for a night to remember! The festivities include delectable specialties from the land and sea by Ripkas Beach Café’s, Chef Clyde, highly esteemed for his culinary creativity. A highlight of Sheffield Island @ the beach will be a Raw Bar of fresh, local clams and oysters that can be washed down with signature cocktails like the Seaport Swizzle, beer, wine, a selection of soft drinks, and infused water. 

The culinary delights don't stop there! For example, delicacies that may be included on the menu for seafood lovers could be mini crab cakes, fried oysters, conch fritters, and, other delights to name a few. Meat lovers aren’t left out and might enjoy mini Cubano bites, coconut curry chicken sate, mini beef kebobs, and more. Vegetarians can indulge at the cheese, crudités, and tapenade tables as well as at the wood-fired pizza station. Many more tantalizing goodies will be served at this amazing beach party that is not to be missed! 

Friends, Sunsets, & Laughter all for a Good Cause 

A beautiful sunset, seeing friends, S'mores on the beach, fire pits, and music add to the convivial ambiance of this seaside celebration. The tickets @ $125 per person are on sale now and are limited to 125 people. Tickets are available online at seaport.org or by calling the Seaport Office at 203-838-9444, so get them today so you don’t miss out on the fun. Proceeds from this event will be used in the maintenance of Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Connecticut’s Maritime Icon. 

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.

Seaport Association Receives Funding from CT Humanities For Connecticut Summer @ the Museum

The Seaport Association was awarded a grant from CT Humanities for participating in Connecticut Summer at the Museum 2022 initiative. This program invites Connecticut children ages 18 and under plus one accompanying Connecticut resident adult to visit participating museums free of charge from July 1 through September 5, 2022. Funding for the initiative is provided by the CT General Assembly, with the support of Connecticut Humanities, the Department of Economic and Community Development, and the Office of the Arts, which also receives support from the federal ARPA.

“We are very proud to be among the grant recipients,” said Mike Reilly, President of the Seaport Association. “This infusion of funding will help us achieve our mission of education by introducing children from Connecticut, 18 years old and younger to our historic lighthouse and its maritime history that is such an important part of Connecticut’s cultural heritage. We are looking forward to sharing this experience with families from Connecticut this summer.” A day out on the water and a visit to Sheffield Island Lighthouse, a historic museum provides a special opportunity that can positively impact mental health, demonstrably improve learning outcomes among children and youth, and offer positive activities and outlets in many of the neighborhoods, towns, and cities that we serve. As children and students missed out on more than two years of group and school visits to our institutions as part of hands-on, interactive learning, the CT Summer at the Museum Program gives these children and students a chance to experience our maritime heritage and our historic lighthouse on Sheffield Island in Norwalk. The program, that the Seaport Association is participating in invites Connecticut children ages 18 and under plus one accompanying Connecticut resident adult to visit participating museums free of charge from July 1 through September 5, 2022. The Seaport Association is offering a three hour cruise to Sheffield Island and Sheffield Island Lighthouse Museum as part of this program Tuesday- Sun @ 11 am and 3 pm from July 1 – September 5. Reservations must be made in advance online only. There is a limited number of tickets allocated for each day. To make reservations for a cruise to Sheffield Island Lighthouse Museum click here. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2022-sheffield-island-ferry-cruise-tickets-263021834387?aff=CT Tickets are subject to availability. Special events are excluded. Children will enjoy narrated tour on the way to the island and an hour or so of picnicking on the beach or in the new wooden pavilion, touring the historic lighthouse, looking for shells on the beach, and taking a walk to the Stewart B. McKinney Wildlife Refuge to view the colorful sea birds sheltered in the marshes and sandy shores of the island. If the day is clear, the New York City skyline can be seen. An added bonus is the telescope installed by the Seaport Association that is free to use and affords fabulous views of the Connecticut coastline. About the Seaport Association The Norwalk Seaport Association 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. About Connecticut Humanities CT Humanities (CTH) is an independent, nonprofit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. CTH connects people to the humanities through grants, partnerships, and collaborative programs. CTH projects, administration, and program development are supported by state and federal matching funds, community foundations, and gifts from private sources. Learn more by visiting cthumanities.org. About Connecticut Office of the Arts The Connecticut Office of the Arts (COA) is the state agency charged with fostering the health of Connecticut’s creative economy. Part of the state’s Department of Economic and Community Development, the COA is funded by the State of Connecticut as well as the National Endowment for the Arts.

An Ecology Walk Along the Shepaug River

A summer walk along the Shepaug River that runs through Washington is a rewarding experience, especially when guided by IAIS Educator and ecologist, Susan Scherf on Saturday, July 9 at 10 a.m. The cost of this program hosted by the Institute for American Indian Studies on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for children, and $5 for members. This hike is perfect for nature lovers and will have them looking at the natural world in a new and exciting way.

The Shepaug River whose Native American name means "rocky waters" has a long history of habitation.  Native Americans have lived overlooking this river for thousands of years. Many stone tools and items such as bone needles and punches, wooden spear shafts, tool handles, and much more have been found in archeological excavations along the banks of the Shepaug.

Rivers are considered the lifeline of ecosystems around the world. On this guided walk participants will learn that Native peoples traditionally recognized that all beings are interconnected. An important life lesson of this walk is to realize that we can learn about our environment by observing wildlife, plants, trees, and flowers. Summer is one of the best times to observe wildlife along the Shepaug from watching a great blue heron hunt to listening to frogs croaking, and feeling the exoskeleton of a crayfish. Walking along this babbling river Susan will discuss animal adaptations and explain what to look and listen for when trying to identify different species in the Eastern Woodland environment.

Participants should wear sturdy hiking or walking shoes, and be prepared to walk about a mile along the river with frequent stops along the way. Participants are encouraged to bring water and extra shoes or sandals to change into down by the river if you plan to get your feet wet. Space on this hike is limited and pre-registration is required. To reserve your space visit http://www.iaismuseum.org to reserve a space through Eventbrite. If you have questions, call 860-868-0518 or email events@iaismuseum.org.

Go on a Mushroom Walk @ Sugar Hill in Salisbury

 Salisbury in the far northwest corner of the Litchfield Hills is a quite bucolic town replete with the White Hart Inn, a New England classic on the village green. Known for its unspoiled natural beauty, Salisbury is the perfect place to go on a mushroom hike. 

On July 9 at 10 a.m. rain or shine, join Dave Patton, who has been foraging and writing about mushrooms for over 30 years, will lead a walk looking for mushrooms on Sugar Hill in the Amesville section of Salisbury.  The program will focus on common and easy-to-identify species that are edible, toxic, and also known to have medicinal properties. 

 Dave will give an introductory talk and show various specimens before leading the group.  He recommends bringing:

• Hiking shoes
• Magnifying glass for better viewing
• Camera or phone for taking photos
• Rain gear or umbrella if weather is wet

The Sugar Hill meeting location is the beginning of an Appalachian Trail access spur at the end of Sugar Hill Road in the Amesville hamlet of Salisbury. Sugar Hill Road is 0.4 miles north of the Amesville/Water Street bridge. Parking is next to the trailhead at the very end of the paved roadway.

This event is sponsored by the Salisbury Land Trust. For more information call 860-435-0566 or email info@salisburyassociation.org.

Norwalk Seaport Association Offers Sunset Cruises July, August, and September

 

Departing from Norwalk Harbor at the Seaport Dock located on 10 North Water Street in Norwalk, guests are in for a picture-perfect experience at sunset with the Norwalk Seaport Association. Imagine relaxing on comfortable seats and watching the stunning scenery of Long Island Sound glide by as you sip on your favorite glass of wine and nibble on the goodies that you have packed to bring aboard the vessel. 

This summer the Association is offering Sunset cruises Wednesday – Sunday from June to September. Sunset cruises depart at 6:30 p.m. and return at 8:30 p.m., just in time for a late-night snack at your favorite restaurant. On a sunset cruise time seems to slow down giving you the opportunity to unwind and toast the end of the day or celebrate the end of a busy week! A special perk of taking a sunset cruise is that it allows you to spend some quality time with whomever you are with. 

The friendly crew welcomes passengers as the Captain tells stories of merchants and sailors that have used this scenic waterway for centuries. Learn how Native Americans introduced oysters to English settlers and how captains of industry used this area to develop trade routes that went as far as the West Indies. The narrative gives a new understanding of Norwalk historically, and also reflects the importance of this scenic harbor today. 

As the vessel travels into Long Island Sound it will give passengers a close-up view of several of Norwalk’s islands and the beautiful homes that are built on them. The cruise also passes three historic lighthouses, Peck’s, Green Ledge, and, the maritime icon of Connecticut, Sheffield Island Lighthouse. Architecturally stunning the Sheffield Island Lighthouse is a perfect example of Victorian stone masonry. Green Ledge and Peck’s are fine examples of sparkplug lighthouses, of which only 33 remain in the United States. The view of these three lighthouses up close as the sun begins to set is magical. 

Guests will travel in safety and comfort with no more than 49 passengers on board the vessel owned by the Seaport Association. Passengers can eat, drink, and be merry on the sunset cruise because alcoholic beverages and snacks are allowed, just don’t forget to bring cups and openers! A sunset cruise is a magical time of day. The sky is filled with various hues of blue, yellow, pink, and orange making it a relaxing experience that is hard to forget. 

Sunset Cruise Schedule & Parking 

The boat leaves from the dock on 10 North Water Street at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday – Sunday evenings, June through September. The Seaport Dock is adjacent to the Stroffolino Bridge at the corner of Washington and North Water Streets. Parking is available in the adjacent lot or at the Maritime Center Parking Garage. For tickets visit http://www.seaport.org or call 203-838-9444. Sunset cruises are $33 per person. The boat sails promptly as scheduled so it is best to arrive at the dock 30 minutes before departure to facilitate the boarding process.

An Evening of Celebration Glebe House Garden Party June 25

 In the early summer, there is nothing better than an alfresco Garden Party amid the fragrant blossoms of a historic house and garden. The Glebe House, one of the oldest house museums in Connecticut with a nationally famous garden, is the venue for the epitome of a perfect garden party. This year, the Glebe House located on Hollow Road in Woodbury is hosting its annual Garden Party on Saturday, June 25 from 6 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tickets to this fundraising event are $40 per person and can be purchased online @ https://www.glebehousemuseum.org or by calling 203-263-2855. For the direct link for tickets click here. 

A Warm Welcome Awaits at the Glebe House

Each year, friends, and guests enjoy this spectacular garden designed in 1926 by famed English horticultural designer, writer, and artist, Gertrude Jekyll, who had a profound influence on modern garden design. Today, it is the only remaining example of Jekyll’s work in the U.S., making this garden party a celebration of an American garden designed from across the pond! 

In June, the flowers are beginning to pop in waves of colors, patterns, textures, and fragrances. Tables and chairs are placed amid the backdrop of the garden and blankets are spread out under large shade trees. There will be sweet and savory hors d’ oeuvres packed in beautifully decorated individual boxes, wine bottled in Woodbury, from Walker Road Vineyards, sparkling water, lemonade made from fresh lemons picked from the Glebe House lemon tree, and a signature drink, “The Seabury Swing,” created by the Nutmeg Wine and Spirit Shoppe in Woodbury. 

To add to this convivial event there will be a strolling 4-part Cappella Barbershop Quartet, the Valley Chordsmen, who are affiliated with the International Barbershop Harmony Society. They have been entertaining folks throughout the state for more than 73 years and are sure to add to the fun. Speaking of fun, the Silent Auction will feature a number of tantalizing items to bid on. One of the most sought-after items will be the catered “All Hallows Eve Cocktail Party for Ten” at the Glebe House. Imagine the spooktacular time your friends and family will have at this exclusive private event when the Glebe House is all decked out for Halloween! 

As an added highlight, the first floor of the Glebe House will be open. This simple 18th-century farmhouse is furnished as the home of the Reverend John Rutgers Marshall and his family that lived here, in the “glebe” during the Revolutionary War. It is especially atmospheric to tour the house in the early evening imagining this is the way the family lived here with no electricity. 

Attending the Glebe House Garden Party is an unforgettable experience – with good fun shared by all, delicious food, and drinks enjoyed in a magical garden. The Glebe House Garden Party is the major fundraising event of the year for the museum. Proceeds support the maintenance of the Glebe House and Garden and educational programs. 

About The Glebe House 

Built about 1750, the Glebe House was saved by a committee that eventually became known as the Seabury Society for the Preservation of the Glebe House and was restored in 1923 under the direction of Henry Watson Kent, founder of the American Wing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. It opened to the public as a Historic House Museum in June of 1925. 

The Glebe House was the farm homestead of Woodbury’s first Anglican Minister, Rev. John Rutgers Marshall, his wife Sarah, their nine children, and three enslaved persons. It is historically significant because it is where the first Bishop of the American Episcopal Church, Reverend Dr. Samuel Seabury was elected in 1783. 

At the time, this was a momentous decision because it assumed the separation of church and state and religious tolerance in the new nation. This significant historic house museum is beautifully appointed with period furniture, some of it locally made, and, it is surrounded by the only extant garden in the United States designed by Gertrude Jekyll, one of Great Britain’s most famous 20th-century garden designers. The garden includes a classic English style mixed border in Jekyll’s signature drifts of color, foundation plantings, and a planted stone quadrant.

Lacrosse – More Than Just A Game New Exhibition @ Institute for American Indian Studies

 

Lacrosse was originally played by eastern Native Americans and Canada’s First People. The Institute for American Indian Studies located at 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut has just opened a fascinating special exhibition, “More Than a Game: The Story of Lacrosse,” that will be on view at the Institute through August 2022. 

This well-researched exhibition touches on a variety of subjects, many of which are unexpected in light of the game many of us know today. Some of the most interesting aspects of the exhibition relate to the spiritual importance of lacrosse and how it connects to creation stories, the way they settle differences, and its continued social and communal significance. 

This exhibition also explores the appropriation of lacrosse by Euro-Americans and Canadians. In the 1860’s Dr. George Beers of Canada wrote the first standardized rulebook for lacrosse in an attempt to “civilize” the game. By the 1890s, Native American communities were banned from participating in national competitions. This part of the exhibition includes documentation in the form of newspaper clippings and images that depict the history of lacrosse in popular culture and how it was interpreted. 

More Than a Game also highlights how traditional lacrosse sticks evolved in North America. Several lacrosse sticks on display showcase the three major styles of Native American lacrosse and demonstrate the different regional interpretations of the game. This exhibit touches on the relationship between lacrosse and Native communities today. It delves into the saga of the Iroquois Nationals, the only Native American athletic team permitted to compete in international competitions. Don’t miss the exhibition’s video that shows Native Americans making wooden sticks in the traditional way and relating why it is important to the future of their culture. 

This exhibit can be summed up by a quote by Rex Lyons, Onondaga, “Lacrosse is part of the story of our creation, of our identity, of who we are. So when we play the game, we always say that there’s a simultaneous game going on in the Sky World and our ancestors are playing with us.” 

The Institute for American Indian Studies is open Wednesday – Sunday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and admission is $12 for adults, $8 for children 3-12, $10 for seniors, and members are free. 

About 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.

This June Enjoy the Beauty of Birds on Long Island Sound with the Seaport Association

Bird Cruises are one of the most popular excursions operated by the Seaport Association in Norwalk. Although Connecticut is a small state, it is rich in birdlife with more than 430 different bird species to spot. If you are a veteran or novice birding enthusiast and want to add seabirds to your list, hop on board the C.J. Toth, a 49- passenger vessel with the Seaport Association on Saturday, June 11 and Sunday, June 12, and Saturday, June 25, and Sunday, June 26 from 8 am to 10:30 a.m. for the June Bird Cruises that welcomes adults as well as children. 

An avian adventure on Long Island Sound in June provides a unique opportunity to see birds in their natural habitat. Every cruise is different because you never know what will fly your way, making this excursion an adventure in itself. The bird cruise in June offers different things to see than the bird cruises offered in May. June is the month when many birds breed making it the perfect time to look for birds where they nest. On this guided tour escorted by Will Schneck, a member of the esteemed Connecticut Young Birders Club, passengers will learn about local bird behavior and biology and, most importantly how to spot them. “One thing that we will be looking for is birds that are nesting, raising their families, resting, and feeding,” says Schneck. Among the types of birds, you may see on this eco-adventure cruise are nest sites and nest colonies of ospreys, and long-legged egrets with their graceful S-curved necks and long dagger-like bills, as well as playful American oystercatchers, herons, terns, gulls, and cormorants to name a few. 

Another special feature of this cruise is the chance to spot birds at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge on Sheffield Island. Here you will see a variety of habitats that support nesting and wading birds. This spot is known for its small population of herring and great black-backed gulls that nest along Sheffield Island's rocky shoreline. The importance of the Norwalk Islands to wildlife, especially migratory birds is enormous, and the special Bird Cruises hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association give nature enthusiasts, adults, and children alike, the chance to spot these magnificent seabirds up close with the added benefit of a knowledgeable guide. 

Bird Cruise Details 

Passengers are asked to arrive 30 minutes prior to the 8 a.m. departure. The vessel leaves from the Seaport Dock that is adjacent to the Stroffolino Bridge at the corner of Washington and Water Streets in South Norwalk. Parking is available at the adjacent lot or at the Norwalk Parking Garage. Tickets are available online in advance by clicking here and are $25 in addition to a small ticketing fee. The Seaport Association advises reserving your Bird Cruise early because these popular excursions sell out. Make sure you include your email when reserving your ticket. If the tour is canceled due to inclement weather the Norwalk Seaport Association will contact you via your email. Before embarking on this cruise, be sure to pack sunscreen, your camera, binoculars, water and snacks, and your sense of adventure! 

About the Norwalk Seaport Association 

The Norwalk Seaport Association 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.

This Father’s Day Take Dad on an Adventure to 1518! Wigwam Escape @ Institute for American Indian Studies

 

This Father’s Day it is time to celebrate your one-of-a-kind dad in an unexpected and fun way that he will cherish for years to come. If you are looking for something special, why not give him the gift of a unique experience with Wigwam Escape, a nationally award-winning Escape Room that is located at the Institute for American Indian Studies on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut. 

If the dad in your life is a history buff, loves to solve puzzles, and enjoys being challenged while having fun, Wigwam Escape will be an unforgettable bonding experience for the whole family. A highlight of the Wigwam Escape experience is gaining a better understanding of how Native peoples thrived prior to European contact. This is a gift that keeps on giving. After playing the game, you can continue your experience by visiting the museum whose core exhibition follows the 10,000-year-long story of Connecticut’s Native American people, and hiking the Institute trails to a replicated Algonkian Village. 

In honor of Father’s Day, the Institute is running a promotional code that is 20% off the booking and includes gift certificates when using code DAD1518 at checkout. For more information and to book, click here. 

Wigwam Escape – The Story 

You, the game player, find yourselves in a Native American village in the woodlands of Connecticut in the year 1518. You’ve just received word that an illness is affecting the neighboring fishing village of Metachiwon and they are asking for help. It is seven miles to Metachiwon so you have to act quickly. It’s up to you to figure out how to gather and prepare supplies for your journey ahead. You have one day (roughly one hour of game time) to hunt, gather and cook using only the resources found in the village and surrounding forest. This empathetic experience connects players to the ways Native peoples lived and the skills they relied on 500 years ago in their daily lives. 

 FAQs - Wigwam Escape 

Wigwam Escape allows two to seven players to experience the room. To enhance the experience the room caters only to private groups, so when you book the room, it is for your group only. The ticket prices are $25 for General Admission, $20 for Students, and $22 for Seniors. Your ticket also includes museum admission to the Institute for American Indian Studies which can be used on the day of your visit. 

The suggested age for Wigwam Escape is 12 and up; however, as long as there is a parent or guardian present during the game kids under 12 are welcome. The suggested age for Wigwam Escape is 12 and up; however, as long as there is a parent or guardian present during the game kids under 12 are welcome. 

Wigwam Escape is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday by reservation. Office hours are Wed. and Thurs. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. To purchase your tickets, visit www.wigwamescape.org or call (860) 868- 0510.

The Sharon Historical Society & Museum Announces Call for Works The Summer Show” Juried Exhibition Open Call

 The Sharon Historical Society & Museum is pleased to announce an open call seeking entries for its upcoming show in Gallery SHS, “The Summer Show”, a juried exhibition and sale running from July 16 through August 26, 2022.

Gallery SHS invites artists to submit for consideration original works in any medium (e.g. Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor, Photography, Pastel, Ink, Graphite, Drawing, Print, Mixed Media, Sculpture, Assemblage, Fabric, Stone, Clay, Metal). The show has no requirements limiting the subject matter or size of the artwork. Judge or judges to be announced.

There is a non-refundable entry fee of $25.00 for up to two (2) works of art and $10.00 for each additional submission. The show’s judge will select the art to be exhibited and award cash prizes of $100, $75, and $50 to three pieces. 

In addition, guests who attend the show’s opening night will have the opportunity to select their favorite work of art which will receive the “SHS Crowd Pleaser” award. Submissions must be delivered on Saturday, July 9 between 9 and 11am. 

Please provide high-quality images of your artwork at that time, especially if your work is behind glass, so that they may be posted to the Gallery SHS web page. The Prospectus, Entry Forms, and detailed Terms and Conditions are available on the Gallery SHS page (follow the link under Gallery SHS) of the Sharon Historical Society & Museum’s website, sharonhist.org, or can be picked up at the SHS during regular hours.