Learn A Technique Used by Archeologists on Saturday, June 26, 2021

If you are interested in learning about the techniques used by archaeologists then register for the Flotation Workshop being held at the Institute for American Indian Studies​ located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington, Connecticut on Saturday, June 26 from 12 noon to 4 p.m. To register click here. Space is limited for this program and pre-registration is required. For additional questions, call 860-868-0518 or email events@iaismuseum.org.

Not all of the information archaeologists learn about the past comes from artifacts. Some of the most telling information can come from the dirt. When things like hearths, or burned areas are found the soil is removed and packed up to be taken back to the lab. This is done so that all of the soil can be saved.

In the lab, the dried soil is placed in a tub that has been filled with water. The lighter organic materials "float," which gives this technique its name. The remaining soil is run through a series of sieves that catch even the finest materials. This technique is used to find charcoal, fish scales, nut fragments, and even grass seeds. These small bits can tell archaeologists so much!

Participants in this workshop will join the Institute's Research Department for an in-depth demonstration of this useful technique. A highlight of this program is the chance to try this process out for yourself.

About The Institute for American Indian Studies (IAIS)

Located on 15 woodland acres the IAIS preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. We have an outdoor replicated 16th c. Algonkian Village, the 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 in Washington Connecticut.

 

Family Nature Hour @ White Memorial Foundation...Looking Under Rocks!

Turning over logs in the woods is like nature’s ultimate treasure hunt; you just never know what is going to be hiding under them! Join Education Director Carrie Szwed at White Memorial Conservation Center on Thursday, June 24 from 4 to 5 pm. There will be a very intimate gathering of families as we carefully roll over logs to find invertebrates, salamanders, and even mycelia…what’s that? Find out all sorts of new terms and meet some cool and crawly critters. Families with children ages 6 and older are welcome to attend.

This special program is limited to 15 lucky folks interested in what they will see when looking under rocks! There are no online reservations for this event -- so get there early as it is first come first serve! Participants must wear masks. The meeting point is on the lawn between the Main Parking area and the Museum. The cost is $5 per person.

Courtesy White Memorial Foundation

About White Memorial

The White Memorial Conservation Center, an Environmental Education Center and Nature Museum, is located in the heart of the 4000-acre White Memorial Foundation in the hills of northwestern Connecticut.

In 1964 the Center was established in the former home of Alain White and his sister, May. Their vision and generosity led to the formation of the White Memorial Foundation in 1913. A non-profit tax-exempt organization, the Center was incorporated to add the goal of Education to the Conservation, Research, and Recreation purposes for which the foundation was formed.

The Conservation Center operates a Nature Museum with exhibits focusing on the interpretation of local natural history, conservation, and ecology, as well as a Museum Nature Store. Dormitory and Classroom Facilities on the property extend the opportunities for visitors to interact with the natural world.

The outdoor arena includes the wildlife sanctuary maintained by the White Memorial Foundation. The Foundation today comprises 4000 acres of fields, water, and woodlands, trails, campgrounds, boating facilities, and special areas for large outdoor educational and recreational gatherings.

Sounds of Waterfalls Herald Summer in Litchfield Hills

 Some people listen for birdsong and look for early summer flowers but in Litchfield Hills, it's the rippling rhythm of waterfalls that herald early summer.  Swollen from the runoff of a snowy winter, waterfalls are at their splashiest this spring, and there are many falls around the region beckoning hikers, picnickers, and photographers with their call. 

Kent Falls State Park

Kent Falls State Park, home to Connecticut’s tallest waterfall, is located right on Route 7 just north of Kent. The stream known as Falls Brook takes a dramatic 200-foot drop over a cliff here, a thrilling sight. An uphill hiking path beside the water leads to the top of the falls, passing through a fragrant hemlock forest and providing lookouts to savor or photograph the scene below. Excellent vantage points are found all along the trail for admiring the cascading water. Picnic grounds are set in a meadow at the foot of the falls. 

 For a show of waterpower, the Great Falls of the Housatonic in the Falls Village section of Canaan is unsurpassed. During planned water releases in spring, the dam-controlled falls put on a spectacular show, flowing over a 50-foot drop. A short hiking path leads to an upper viewpoint to savor the splash. The falls are found off Route 126 north following the signs on the road marked for Falls Village. Dean’s Ravine Falls in Canaan is another beauty, with cascades and slides down a steep 50-foot drop, and once again an easy trail leads to the water. The trail to the falls begins to the left of the parking lot at Music Mountain, the headquarters of the oldest continuously running Summer Music Festival in the United States. 

The scenic trail to Prydden Brook Falls in Newtown parallels the west side of the Housatonic River most of the way. The waterfall begins and ends with a plunge with 40 feet of cascades in between. 

 A choice spot for a picnic is Southford Falls State Park on the Oxford and Southbury town line where Eight Mile Brook runs down from Lake Quassapaug in a bubbling cascade on its way to join the Housatonic River. Romantics can picnic on a rock adjacent to the falls or on one of the secluded picnic tables by a classic covered bridge. The bridge is based on a traditional 18th-century arch design and was built by a talented local carpenter, Ed Palmer, with the assistance of Americana Artist Eric Sloane. The banks of the pond above the falls are popular with both fishermen and picnickers. Hiking in the park is excellent on a system of loop trails through the woods and hills. One of the trails offers a tower lookout with a prime view. Located just south of Southbury on Route 188, the park provides a shelter with water and visitor facilities. 

Campbell Falls State Park

A lookout tower is one of several rewards for hikers who take the loop three-mile Beaver Pond Trail at Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area in Burlington. The path, canopied by chestnut, red oak, red maple, and black birch, leads through acres of woodland past a 38-acre beaver pond, the Negro Hill Brook flowing through a jumble of boulders and a side trail leading to a splashing waterfall. The entrance to the wildlife area is found on Route 69, three miles north of the Route 6 intersection in Bristol. 

The sound of rushing water guides visitors through the pines and hemlocks to Campbell Falls, a scenic treasure formed where the Whiting River tumbles over the rocks through a narrow gorge. The water plummets down 60 feet in two steep steps, each ending in a small pool. The weathered rocks make an idyllic picnic setting. The falls are found off Norfolk Road, five miles north of Haystack Mountain on Route 272 in Norfolk, not far from the Massachusetts border.

Explore Mill Hill Historic Park in Norwalk on June 5

 If you are up for a historic stroll in June, why not head to Mill Hill Historic Park located on 2 East Wall Street in Norwalk on Saturday, June 5. The Norwalk Historical Society is offering a series of self-guided tours at 12 noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. For tickets click here.

Visitors are invited to explore the 1740 Governor Fitch Law Office which has been completely renovated and reinterpreted. The new interpretive panels provide information about Colonial life and Governor Fitch. The colonial herb garden on the grounds of this complex is another highlight. Visitors will learn about plants that would have been grown and used during this time period.

The Downtown District One Room Schoolhouse that dates to 1826 and a fascinating exhibition is also on the grounds of the Mine Hill Complex. The "One Room Schoolhouses: A History of Education in Norwalk 1650-1870”, highlights the early history of education in Norwalk using old photographs, original documents, and period textbooks. Both exhibitions were curated by Dr. Daryn Reyman-Lock with graphic design by Scott Kuykendall.

A visit to this complex would not be complete without a stroll through the Mill Hill Burying Ground, Norwalk’s third oldest with views of the Norwalk River.

Visitor Guidelines The health and safety of our visitors, volunteers, and staff are our highest priority. We continue to implement the State of Connecticut's regulations, CDC guidelines, and industry standards for best museum practices during the ongoing pandemic. MASKS • All visitors will be required to wear masks regardless of vaccination status when inside the Mill Hill Historic Park buildings. • If you do not have a mask available, the Norwalk Historical Society will make a disposable mask available to you. TICKETS • All tickets must be purchased online and in advance. If you arrive without a ticket, we will ask you to visit our website at norwalkhistoricalsociety.org/events and purchase a ticket. SOCIAL DISTANCING • We will be limiting the number of visitors to facilitate safe social distancing using timed and delayed entry. • Social distancing shall be required for all staff, volunteers and visitors. Social distancing means keeping 6 feet apart from guests, docents, and staff at all times during your visit. • Bathrooms will accommodate 1 person at any given time. SANITIZING • The Norwalk Historical Society will make hand sanitizer available at entrances, exits and common areas. • We are taking precautions in cleaning common areas with EPA approved cleaning products. Sanitary wipes and trash cans will be available in the restrooms to avoid direct contact on commonly used surfaces. • All visitors will have to agree to these regulations before purchasing tickets to the Mill Hill Historic Park buildings.

Woodcock Nature Center and Wilton Land Conservation Trust Hike Together

Wilton is home to more than 23 preserves that are open to the public and range from 16 to nearly 200 acres. Wilton also has access to open space and trails at Woodcock Nature Center, Weir Farm, and Ambler Farm.

Woodcock Nature Center and the Wilton Land Conservation Trust have teamed up on a series of hikes aimed at highlighting the numerous and naturally diverse trails right here in Wilton. The hike is scheduled for Saturday, May 22 at the Harrison-Smith Preserve at 9 a.m. To register click here.

The Harrison-Smith Preserve is one Land Trust property in particular that combines the beauty of the New England woodland with historical glimpses of Wilton. This property was acquired by the Land Trust in 1974 and is located in North Wilton off of Keeler’s Ridge. It encompasses 23 acres and is abutted by Quarry Head State Park. This preserve is notable for its interesting rock formations and was once used for limited quarrying. Some of the rocks quarried from this preserve were used as building materials locally for barns and bridges. Remnants of the rock walls that once enclosed old pastures and grazing areas for livestock can still be seen from the trail. Today this preserve is a mixed hardwood forest and offers a diversity of habitats.

The free 90-minute guided nature tour will be led by staff naturalists from Woodcock Nature Center alongside Land Trust Executive Director. Leaders will talk about the diverse wildlife, ecosystems, native and invasive plants, and provide insights into Wilton’s land-use history. With any luck, participants might even spot some local wildlife.

Learn About An Ancient Technology Atlatl Workshop @ Institute For American Indian Studies on May 22

 

​When people think of Native American hunting tools, bows and arrows are among the first things that spring to mind, and with good reason. Just about every Native American community had some form of a bow and arrow. What many people don’t know is that for thousands of years, many Native Americans used a different type of hunting tool. The atlatl is a dart thrower that allows hunters to throw a dart or spear farther and faster than by hand alone.

On Saturday, May 22 the Institute for American Indian Studies​ in Washington, Connecticut will be hosting an in-person Atlatl Workshop from 12 noon to 2 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. that will highlight the many uses of this ancient technology, how to make your own atlatl, and how to throw it. Essentially an atlatl is a dart thrower that allows hunters to throw a dart or arrow farther and faster than by hand alone. 

If you like to make things with your hands and throwing sports, don’t miss this intriguing workshop. Participants will learn about the history of the atlatl, one of the first true weapon technologies developed by cultures from all over the world. Different designs of this useful ancient tool that is both a projectile and launching device used by Native Americans will be a highlight. Under the guidance of the Institute’s Educator, Susan Scherf, participants will learn about the different designs of the atlatl before making their own atlatl and dart. 

The fun really begins when participants learn how to use their newly made atlatl and seeing how much farther their dart travels. The atlatl session ends with a friendly atlatl throwing competition. If you become an atlatl fan, you might end up competing in atlatl competitions that are held throughout the world! 

There are two-time slots for this workshop, one at 12 noon to 2 p.m. and the next one is at 2 pm. – 4 p.m. The Atlatl Workshop is $30 for members of the Institute and $40 for non-members and, an adult must accompany participants under 18. To reserve your spot for this fun and educational workshop https://www.iaismuseum.org/event/atlatl-making-workshop-in-person or call 860-868-0518 or email general@iaismuseum.org. Masks and social distancing are required. 

 About the Atlatl 

An atlatl is one of humankind's first mechanical inventions that preceded the bow and arrow in most parts of the world. Basically, an atlatl is a type of lever that was used to throw a spear farther and faster towards the quarry. The word atlatl comes from the Nahuatl language of the Aztecs who were using them when the Spanish arrived in the 1500s. 

According to the World Atlatl Association, early people in the Americas used atlatls to hunt mammoths and mastodons around 11,000 years ago. Much later, a variety of atlatl types were used in different parts of North America. 

Atlatls continued to be used alongside bows and arrows by many Native Americans after the introduction of the bow. 

Typically the projectile point or spear point was made of stone such as chert using a process known as flint knapping. The point was attached to a wooden shaft made of hardwood such as ash, hickory, oak, cedar, walnut, or birch. 

In time, an atlatl weight was added to the spear-thrower as a counter-balance. Weights became more stylized and ornate using fine stone-like banded slate to make each piece a unique work of art. About 

The Institute for American Indian Studies (IAIS) 

Located on 15 woodland acres the IAIS preserves and educates through archeology, research, exhibitions, and programs. We have an outdoor replicated 16th c. Algonkian Village, the 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 in Washington Connecticut.

Celebrate Mother's Day @ Lost Acres Vineyard

 Lost Acres Vineyard located at 80 North Acres Road in North Granby is opening up this weekend with live music, food vendors, and yoga making it a perfect outing on Mother's Day. 

Photo courtesy Lost Acres Vineyard

Every Sunday afternoon, Avon Prime Meats will be offering delicious delectables at the vineyard from 12 noon to 5 p.m. Chefs will be grilling up fresh food featuring premium and locally sourced ingredients and goodies! The menu consists of peel and eat shrimp, mac and signature steak tips, mac and truffle black garlic parmesan and mac and New England pulled port. Wagyu beef burgers, ground chicken burgers and smoked bacon and cheddar brats round out the menu.

There will be a yoga session with Rachael on May 9 from 11 a.m. to noon and music with Steve O'Brien starting at 1 p.m.

Lost Acres has five acres of grapevines featuring six white grape varieties. The vineyard produces white wines, and rose, three red wines, and apple wine. The red wine is made from grapes grown in California and the apple wine is made from local Connecticut fruit. 

For more information and a listing of upcoming events click here.

The Institute Takes Part in the National ReDress Movement - May 1-9 on the Museums Red Trail

The ReDress Project is a national movement, started by Jamie Black, Metis that has been embraced by the Institute for American Indian Studies​ in Washington, Connecticut, and by the town of Washington in honor of Native American women and children that have gone missing or have been murdered in the United States and Canada. This awareness project is symbolically illustrated by the red dresses that will be fluttering in the wind for an ephemeral moment in Washington and Washington Depot on Saturday, May 1, and Sunday, May 2 and can be seen on the grounds of the Insititute through May 9, 2021.

The ReDress Project will also be displayed as a temporary exhibition on the newly developed outdoor installation, Red Trail at the Institute for American Indian Studies on 38 Curtis Road, Washington, from May 1 through May 9. Over 1oo supporters have donated red dresses of various sizes and shapes. These dresses will be displayed along our museum trails and at various locations in Washington Depot to create a visual representation of the missing spirits of these individuals. At the museum, staff and volunteers will be available to answer questions, discuss this serious topic at various age levels, and provide resources for further action.

There is no admission fee to this outdoor installation at the Institute for American Indian Studies. On May 7, at 7 p.m. the Institute is hosting a virtual discussion about the ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the missing and murdered indigenous women and children and Two Spirits, led by Education Director, Darlene Kascak, Schaghticoke, Tribal Nation.

Tanglewood Pottery Open Studio Sale Mother's Day Weekend

If you are looking for a clever excursion to celebrate Mother's Day, why not head to a pottery sale? Tanglewood Pottery located on 66 Tanglewood Road in New Hartford is holding an open studio sale on Mother's Day Weekend, Friday, May 7th from 4:00PM – 8:00PM and Saturday, May 8th from 9:00AM – 5:00PM. There will be an additional 50% off on all Sale Items from 2:00PM – 5:00PM on Saturday.  The sale will take place outdoors in my Kiln Shed and Tent. All COVID19 protocols will be observed.

Tanglewood Pottery has been creating functional pottery for more than thirty years. Each piece is made from stoneware clay on a wheel with some alterations and most are one of a kind. Occasionally sets are created. The glazes are safe and on exteriors as well as on interiors of the pottery. All pottery is dishwasher and microwave safe.

Torrington Historical Society Opens April 14

The Torrington Historical Society is pleased to announce the reopening of the Torrington History Museum on Wednesday, April 14. The museum is home to the award-winning exhibits, No Place Like Home: The History of Torrington and Pursuit of Precision: The Hendey Machine Company 1870-1954. The exhibits will remain open through October 30th. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 12-4. Admission is free.

 No Place Like Home is a self-guided exhibit that takes visitors on a chronological tour of Torrington’s history. Visitors will learn how the town grew and developed and the factors that led to its change over time. Objects from the Society’s collection, as well as reproductions of photographs and maps, are featured throughout the exhibit. Items include Native American tools; 18th-century artifacts; products made in Torrington including brass, clocks, guitars, and bicycles; items brought to Torrington by immigrants; John Brown memorabilia; and a vendor’s cart that belonged to ‘Sam the Hot Dog Man. 

Topics addressed in the exhibit include Geology, Native Americans, 18th-century settlement, the Litchfield County Anti-Slavery Society, John Brown, Immigration, the Flood of 1955, and the city’s rich industrial history. Pursuit of Precision interprets the history of the Hendey Machine Company, a longtime Torrington manufacturer of machine tools including lathes, shapers, and milling machines. A belt-driven machine shop display featuring three Hendey machines is a highlight of this exhibit. 

For the safety of visitors and staff, the Covid protocol will be in effect. Visitors are required to wear face masks and must observe social distancing. Hand sanitizer will be available. Those who have been sick or are not feeling well are asked to remain at home and anyone who is required to self-quarantine should remain at home. To learn more about Torrington history and the Torrington Historical Society, visit the museum website: www.torringtonhistoricalsociety.org.

Field and Forest 5K Run @ Flanders Nature Center

 

Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust is excited to announce the return of their popular Field & Forest 5K Trail Run! The race is planned for Friday, June 4th at the Flanders Van Vleck Farm & Nature Sanctuary in Woodbury at 6PM. All ages and skill levels of runners, joggers, and walkers are welcome to register to enjoy this 3.1-mile run/walk through the trails and rolling hills of the picturesque nature center. 

After the race, participants will enjoy live music by the popular local rock band, Scratch, as well as be able to purchase food from local food trucks and local craft beer from Woodbury Brewing Company. Additionally, Flanders is offering a virtual option to allow participants who cannot attend to still participate from anywhere in the world! 

The registration fee is $25 for all ages (plus processing fees). Those signing up by May 1st will receive a performance race shirt! Registration will close on June 3rd and we will not have same-day race registration. Awards will be given to top male and female finishers overall as well as in 8 age categories ranging from age under 10 to over 60.

 “We are looking forward to an outdoor in-person event that historically has been a fun evening out for the whole family,” commented Heidi Ball who is co-chairing the race with Heather Dever. “We encourage people to register as soon as possible and bring friends and family for this great evening of fitness, food, and fun!” added Heather. 

 For full information and to register online go to https://flandersnaturecenter.org/5k/ . The race will begin promptly at 6PM and will be held rain or shine; however, Flanders reserves the right to cancel in the case of lightning. We are sorry but the event cannot accommodate strollers or pets on the course.

The Art of Spring Foraging in the Eastern Woodlands - April 18, 2021

 Native Americans lived off the land and were able to identify edible plants and fungi from a young age. Most people today don’t invest the time to gain the experience required to know where to look for and how to identify wild food and edible plants. If you have ever been curious about foraging and what is edible in the woodlands of Connecticut, don’t miss the Spring Foraging Forum on April 18 with Griffin Kalin, a Museum Educator and Traditional Skills Expert at the Institute for American Indian Studies located at 38 Curtis Road in Washington, Connecticut. This program is recommended for the entire family and will be held in three one-hour time slots starting at 1:00 pm. 

Simply put, foraging is searching for wild food and provisions. It is a wonderful way to experience the natural world and connect with the land through traditional ways that have become less commonly practiced. Wild greens and edibles in the Spring were an important source of nutrition for many Native communities and this forum offers a fascinating glimpse of how important this food source was. Spring is one of the most important times of year to forage because many types of plants and fungi are just starting to re-emerge after a long winter’s rest, which helps supplement the end of winter food supplies. 

Foraging can be as simple as picking berries or identifying plants, tubers, and mushrooms that are good to eat. It can also involve more complicated and time-consuming processes, like grinding acorns into fine flour or tapping a maple tree for sap. This forum teaches us that foraging is an art that requires us to use all our senses and to understand and respect the habitat that plants grow in. Please note, this program is intended for educational purposes only; never eat any forage item you can’t be 100% certain about.

Space per time slot is limited and pre-registration is required. To sign up for this workshop, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/spring-foraging-forum-with-griffin-kalin-tickets-149317226845. Please call (860) 868-0518 or email events@iaismuseum.org with any questions. 

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.

How to Make Exploring Norfolk, Connecticut, Easy This Spring

Norfolk is an enchanting small community located high in the Litchfield Hills. Although it is a small town, it has an amazing number of things to do and see, sure to delight the whole family. Known for its natural beauty, classic village green, interesting shops, good eateries, and architectural treasures, this community also makes it easy for visitors to find their way around town. The folks that live here have made a series of virtual visits that give visitors a sneak peek into the Norfolk life that they enjoy and like to share with others. These videos are part of their town-wide, semi-annual festival Weekend in Norfolk (WIN) that takes place every winter and summer.

If you are in the mood to explore one of Connecticut's brightest hidden gems, you might want to watch these short videos to get the lay of the land. A must-see video before an in-person exploration of Norfolk is the guided tour of the Battell Chapel's beautiful stained glass windows, designed by D. Maitland Armstrong and Louis Comfort Tiffany. Three large windows designed by Armstrong and made of opalescent glass fill the west end of the chapel. Tiffany’s five smaller windows face them from the east; they depict the four seasons, with a brilliant sunrise as the center. In addition to highlighting the magnificent stained glass windows, this video provides an overview of all of the attractions that surround Norfolk Green including the Congregational Church, the White House Yale Summer School of Music, the Stanford White Fountain, the Norfolk Historical Society, the Norfolk Library, Battell House and the Chapel. To view the Stained Glass Windows video and more click here. Another option for history and architectural lovers is the nine-minute tour of Norfolk with historian, William Hosley. For the architectural tour of Norfolk click here. Originally founded in 1744 as a farming community, today Norfolk's farmers proudly carry on the town's agricultural heritage that can be seen in a fascinating video, "What Farmers Do in the Winter." Everyone knows that summer is the busiest time for farmers when they are taking care of their crops and produce, making cheese, and tending to their animals. This video gives viewers a glimpse into life on a New England farm in the winter. To watch the video click here.

Husky Meadows Farm is situated on three acres and is an organic-certified farm sustainably growing a wide variety of vegetables. In addition to vegetables, they tend to antique fruit trees including a one-hundred-year-old pear tree, planted by John Curtiss. A new venture that is highlighted in this video is the cultivation of log-grown mushrooms including shiitake, chestnut, and pearl mushrooms. Coming in the summer of 2021, Husky Meadows Farm will also be offering a Seed and Spoon Culinary Retreat to one Covid pod per weekend. This is your chance to actually live on a Connecticut farm!

Broad Field Farm grows organic tomatoes and fresh vegetables and sells them at local farmers' markets as well as at their own stand on Winchester Road in season. In this video, enter an empty greenhouse and learn about the work and different techniques used to cultivate organic produce. The surprising amount of winter office work from ordering seeds to planning for crop rotation and getting the greenhouse ready for cultivation is also discussed.

Lost Ruby Farm is a micro goat dairy and creamery specializing in crafting small-scale handmade cheeses. They use only milk from their small herd of pasture-raised goats. This heartwarming video shows how lovingly these goats are cared for and a glimpse of how the goats live in the winter. If you are a cheese lover and want to try their cheeses, Lost Ruby Farm is open for farm pick-ups Thursday to Sunday at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Pre-orders 24 hours in advance are required and can be made by clicking here. 

 These are just a few highlights of the many videos to choose from when visiting the Weekend in Norfolk website. There is something for everyone online that will appeal to the entire family and make in-person visits easy. For a complete listing of videos including many from the Summer 2020 virtual festival click https://weekendinnorfolk.org

Call for Exhibitors & Sponsors for the Norwalk Oyster Festival 2021

The Seaport Association is looking for vendors, sponsors, and exhibitors that want to get in on the fun at the 43rd annual Norwalk Oyster Festival being held this year on September 10,11, and 12, 2021 at Veterans Park in Norwalk. The festival has a proven track record making it the perfect place to showcase your business or non-profit organization.

The Norwalk Oyster Festival offers artists and craftspeople, non-profit community groups, museums and institutions, vendors, food concessions, and sponsors the opportunity to be associated with one of the most popular events in New England that attracts tens of thousands of people year after year. "We are seeking local and regional food merchants, clothing, jewelry and merchandising vendors, museums and institutions as well as artists and craftspeople that have interesting and unusual items to sell at our event," said Mike Reilly, President of the Norwalk Oyster Festival. "We are always open to talented and innovative vendors and exhibitors. 

The festival is ideal for people in search of an opportunity to earn money and work at a high-energy and popular event that has been successful for 42 years. Our reputation is stellar because our festival provides valuable exposure for all that participate because it is well known and popular with the public." Applications for sponsors are now available online. Sponsors get extensive in-person exposure at this event and are aggressively promoted on the Seaport's social media platforms and in their highly successful public relations and advertising campaigns. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase your business in a highly cost-effective way. For sponsorship opportunities click here. For an arts and crafts application and all the details of how to display your products click here. 

Applications are being accepted now through August 17, 2021. The Seaport Association will select approximately 125 arts and crafts exhibitors for the festival, so get your applications in today. Applications for nonprofits are available by clicking here. 

The Norwalk Oyster Festival is tailor-made for brands and specialty products that want to interact and engage with the public. A booth at the festival allows sales and merchandising participants to enjoy valuable face time with prospects. Click here to get your Marketing and Merchandising application. If you are a food vendor or have a concession and would like to be considered for this year's festival click here for details. 

Slots are expected to fill up quickly for this highly anticipated annual event so it is recommended to get your applications in early. 

About the Norwalk Oyster Festival 

Started in 1978 by a small group of people to celebrate Norwalk's maritime heritage, this festival has grown exponentially over the years attracting tens of thousands of people to one of the best events in New England of its kind. Proceeds from the Festival's support the Seaport's Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Ferry service for public access and environmental programs. Over the years, the Norwalk Seaport Association Oyster Festival has been recognized by the state of Connecticut, Library of Congress, American Bus Association and the International Festival and Events Association as one of the top events in the country and for the vital role of the volunteers and nonprofit organizations in the production and continuing success of the Oyster Festival.

Can You Meet the Challenge of Wigwam Escape?

Escape rooms are the new medium for learning, storytelling, and play. In December 2020, Wigwam Escape (located at The Institute of American Indian Studies in Washington, Connecticut) won the coveted escape room “2020 Golden Lock Award” by the Room Escape Artist. They were impressed by Wigwam Escape's unique take on learning through play, with their innovative and interactive puzzles allowing for problem-solving and critical thinking from multiple perspectives. 

“We are thrilled that Wigwam Escape has won this award – it is truly an honor. It is really rewarding to have Wigwam Escape recognized not only for its educational value but also for the fact that it is fun,” said Lauren Bennett-Dionne, Manager of Wigwam Escape. 

 The Wigwam Escape journey begins in the year 1518 - players leave all modern-day devices like watches and cell phones behind, learning to take cues from the world around them. The room itself has hand-painted murals of New England forests, fields, streams, ponds, and gardens that allow players to be immersed in the pre-contact environment of Connecticut's woodlands. The centerpiece of the room is a to-scale wigwam, crafted using traditional methods from local bark and trees.

Players learn that a nearby fishing village has requested help, so they must hunt, forage, and gather supplies for a journey ahead. This unique, hands-on approach connects players to the ways Native peoples lived and the skills they relied on 500 years ago in their daily lives. Some of these lessons are timeless, allowing for an even broader takeaway from the experience of Wigwam Escape.

If you have friends and family members that are puzzle lovers, history buffs, story seekers, and enjoy immersive experiences, this adventure will definitely challenge and delight them! Wigwam Escape is committed to keeping visitors and staff safe by having each escape room be a private experience, with only one group playing at a time, and strict sanitation of all touchable game surfaces and waiting areas between groups. 

 This spring from March 15th – April 25th, Wigwam Escape is offering players a special deal. 20% off your ENTIRE booking with discount code DEERANTLER 

 If you are looking for a safe and exciting outing that is sure to chase away the winter doldrums, call Wigwam Escape at 860-868-0151 or book online at https://wigwamescape.org/book-now