Category: Connecticut Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sip, Savor, Sustain: Craft Brews and Bites for Sheffield Island Lighthouse

The Norwalk Seaport Association invites you to an evening of exceptional craft beer, delicious food, and community engagement at Space Cat Brewery, located at 57 Chestnut Street in Norwalk. Mark your calendar for Monday, April 7, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and prepare to indulge in a night of small-batch brews, hard ciders, and chef-driven appetizers by Ripkas Beach Café. Each carefully crafted pairing is designed to enhance the experience and showcase the brewery’s creative touch. From robust IPAs to crisp lagers, Space Cat Brewery’s dedication to using the finest, sustainable ingredients will delight even the most refined beer enthusiasts.

This fundraiser includes the education, maintenance, and restoration of Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Connecticut’s maritime treasure. At this relaxed yet engaging event, guests will hear about the Seaport Association’s exciting plans for 2025, including updates on cruise schedules, renovations to the Lighthouse, the Norwalk Oyster Festival, and new membership opportunities. It’s also a chance to learn about volunteering for an organization that has been preserving Norwalk’s maritime heritage since 1978.

Tickets are $35 per person and include two drink vouchers (wine, beer and hard cider) and appetizers. With only 100 tickets available, advance registration is required. Don’t miss your chance to support this meaningful cause while enjoying a memorable evening. Purchase your tickets online click here or call the Seaport Office at 203-838-9444. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy a fun, relaxed evening while supporting a worthy cause. Join us to raise a glass to tradition, community, and the preservation of our shared heritage!


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.

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Pour Sustainability on Your Pancakes Experience the Sweet Magic of Bird Friendly Maple Syrup at GMF

For nearly 80 years, Great Mountain Forest (GMF) has been perfecting the craft of maple sugaring, blending tradition with innovation. Nestled in the heart of Norfolk, Connecticut, GMF is a pioneer in climate-smart forestry and the proud producer of the state’s first Bird Friendly Maple Syrup – a National Audubon program. This isn’t your ordinary syrup; it’s a testament to sustainable forestry, thriving wildlife habitats, and the beauty of a balanced ecosystem.

On Saturday, March 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., GMF invites you to experience the magic of maple sugaring at their saphouse, located at 201 Windrow Road in Norfolk. This event is far more than just a visit; it’s an immersive adventure into the art and science of syrup production. From sap collection to the boiling process, you’ll about the whole process. Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet expert foresters and educators who will guide you through the fascinating science behind syrup production. And the best part? Sampling the warm, delectable syrup made right before you—a taste of GMF’s forest to table craftsmanship!

What truly sets GMF apart is its 78-year-old Sap House diary, a one-of-a-kind log that meticulously records data on sap output, sugar content, syrup yields, weather patterns, migratory bird arrivals, and tree budding cycles. This treasure trove of information doesn’t just support syrup production—it inspires research on climate change and forest health. By visiting the sugarhouse, you’ll witness this perfect blend of tradition and long term nature observation in action.

While you’re there, don’t miss the opportunity to bring home a bottle of Connecticut’s finest maple syrup—a product deeply connected to nature’s rhythm. With every spoonful, you’ll taste the dedication that goes into making this amber liquid, from cold nights and warm days to overcoming challenges like climate change, acid rain, and land use history. Your purchase isn’t just a delicious indulgence; it supports GMF’s mission of sustainability and forest stewardship.

Can’t make it on March 15? The sugarhouse welcomes visitors on weekdays and school groups, depending on sap availability. Just call ahead at 860-542-5422 to confirm if the operation is in full swing. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unique tradition.

About Great Mountain Forest
Great Mountain Forest (GMF) is a leader in forest stewardship. For more than a century, we have been demonstrating how sustainable management can protect biodiversity and support ecosystems. By serving as a hub for education and research, we are spreading the benefits of sustainable management so that communities across New England derive educational, economic, recreational and health benefits from their forests—now and well into the future. GMF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit encompassing 6,200 acres of contiguous forestland in Norfolk, Canaan, and Falls Village Connecticut.

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Discover Tina’s Woven Art, and Global Gemstones at Whiting Mills Third Annual Rock and Mineral Show – March 15 and 16

Mark your calendar for an unforgettable weekend! Tina’s Baskets and Woven Art is thrilled to be part of the Third Annual Rock and Mineral Show, happening at the historic Whiting Mills, located at 100 Whiting Street, Winsted, Connecticut. Join us on Saturday, March 15, and Sunday, March 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and immerse yourself in a world of creativity, craftsmanship, and natural wonders—all under one roof!

Start your journey in Suite 305, home to Tina’s Baskets. Award-winning artist Tina Puckett will be in her studio, weaving her stunning creations. From baskets and bowls to wall hangings and sculptures, her colorful, hand-dyed designs embellished by bittersweet never fail to impress. Don’t miss her newly launched Butterfly Collection of baskets and bowls, featuring vibrant jewel tones and foraged bittersweet vines, or her “Perceived Languages” Hands Collection, each piece telling a story through woven art. Keep an eye out for George, her charming ginger-colored cat, who often supervises her works!

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Make your way to the main hall, where the Rock and Mineral Show awaits. This dazzling event features 30 professional dealers showcasing an extraordinary selection of rocks, gemstones, fossils, cabochons, and healing stones sourced from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply curious, you’ll find treasures ranging from awe-inspiring minerals to unique handmade jewelry.

As you explore, take the time to wander the halls of Whiting Mills, where other artisans proudly open their studio doors. Discover curios, antiques, handcrafted jewelry, herbal teas, crystals, candles, and even a hobby shop. Hungry? Refuel with sandwiches and hot drinks available for purchase. And the best part? Entrance to this spectacular event is completely free.

About Tina’s Baskets
Tina Puckett is a master weaver whose works have graced galleries across the globe. For over four decades, she has been crafting exceptional woven art using hand-dyed reeds, bittersweet vines, and unique found items like beads and seagrass. You can visit her studio in Suite 305 at Whiting Mills, Winsted, Connecticut, where she’s often weaving on weekends from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. To arrange a private appointment and experience her art up close, text Tina at 860-309-6934.

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From Parks to Pavement: Haze Gallery Welcomes Xiomaro’s Bold NYC Street Photography

Haze Gallery in Berlin, Germany, has proudly announced its representation of photographer Xiomaro, an artist celebrated for his compelling visual narratives. Known for his National Park photography, which gained national attention through a PBS feature and was the centerpiece of a book with a foreword by Senator Joe Lieberman, Xiomaro now brings a fresh perspective to the gallery’s roster. However, his evocative series of contemporary New York City images truly captivated Haze Gallery’s interest. This new partnership aims to showcase Xiomaro’s work to a global audience of collectors and art enthusiasts.

Xiomaro’s transition from an entertainment lawyer to a celebrated photographer is as fascinating as his art. After conquering prostate cancer in 2005, he embraced photography, eventually earning recognition through the Weir Farm Artist-in-Residence program and commissions from the National Park Service. His candid street photography, much like his work in Weir Farm National Historical Park, offers a documentary style with an abstract, surreal twist. His striking images, often captured through the reflective surfaces of Manhattan’s store windows, vehicles, and bus shelters, convey a dynamic interplay of chaos and energy. “I wanted to document how things feel – not just how they look – for preservation as future history,” Xiomaro explains. With over 11 percent of Connecticut residents commuting to New York City, his ability to encapsulate the frenetic yet mesmerizing energy of urban life resonates on a deeply human level.

A Shared Journey Through Art and Adversity
The personal journeys of both Xiomaro and Haze Gallery’s CEO, Irina Rusinovich, reflect a shared resilience and passion shaped by health crises. Xiomaro’s battle with cancer not only led him to photography but also inspired him to adopt the pseudonym “Xiomaro,” which translates to “ready for battle.” Similarly, Rusinovich’s breast cancer diagnosis in 2016 prompted her move from Russia to Berlin, where she found new purpose in founding the gallery and Purple Haze magazine. Her commitment to making art accessible to all aligns with Xiomaro’s philosophy, making their collaboration particularly fitting.

According to Rusinovich, who founded Haze Gallery in 2019 near Berlin’s iconic Kurfürstendamm, the gallery seeks artists who offer unique narratives and bold perspectives. Xiomaro’s unconventional approach fits this vision seamlessly. As Rusinovich explains, “Art should be accessible to all, regardless of background or prior knowledge. My goal is to demystify art, make it approachable, and spark conversations.” Xiomaro’s work does just that, weaving themes of history, psychology, and politics into his photographs, which he discusses in his forthcoming book, Street Photography of New York City – Street Haunting in the Big Apple (Fonthill Media, 2023).

Bridging Art, Emotion, and Connection
Through this exciting partnership, Haze Gallery continues to expand its mission of presenting art that resonates on a universal level. Xiomaro’s layered compositions and thought-provoking narratives invite viewers to interpret the chaos and beauty of urban life in their own way. His portraits, with surreal elements that float like thought bubbles above his subjects, provoke questions of identity, introspection, and humanity’s place in an ever-changing world.

For more information about Xiomaro and his work, visit www.xiomaro.com . Together, Xiomaro and Haze Gallery are poised to captivate art lovers and collectors, offering a profound exploration of life through the lens of resilience and creativity.

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Pancakes, Maple Syrup, and Wildlife Tracking – Celebrate Winter Great Mountain Forest

For nearly 80 years, Great Mountain Forest (GMF) in Norfolk has been perfecting the art—and science—of maple sugaring. A New England pioneer in climate-smart forestry, GMF is not only known for its delicious maple syrup but also for being Connecticut’s first Bird Friendly Maple Syrup Producer, fostering habitats where wildlife thrives.

What makes GMF’s maple sugaring operation truly extraordinary is its 78-year-old Sap House diary—a treasure trove of meticulously recorded data. This remarkable log documents sap output, sugar content, syrup yields, weather patterns, migratory bird arrivals, and even the budding cycles of trees. This is a goldmine for climate and forest research, offering insights into everything from insect and disease patterns to the impacts of climate change on forestry. “This diary, spanning nearly eight decades, is an insightful window into the forest’s past,” says Mike Zarfos, GMF’s Executive Director. “It’s an invaluable resource for studying our changing climate, forest health, and syrup production.”

On Saturday, February 22, and Sunday, February 23, join GMF for an up-close look at the magic of maple sugaring (pending the availability of sap). Visitors should call ahead 860-542-5422 to confirm the sugarhouse at 201 Windrow Road in Norfolk is open. Weekday visits and school trips may also be available depending on sap flow. To set up a school trip email info@greatmountainforest.org. Meet the foresters, learn about the science behind sap production, and don’t forget to grab a bottle of their “forest – to- table” maple syrup while you are there.

If the sugarhouse isn’t open, don’t worry! Head to the Icebox Café at 10 Station Place during the Winter Weekend in Norfolk celebration for a pancake breakfast featuring GMF’s maple syrup. Served on February 22 and 23, from 7 AM to 2 PM, it’s the perfect pairing of light, fluffy pancakes and syrup straight from the forest. Afterward, join naturalist Andy Dobos for Wildlife Track Identification at GMF on February 23 from 10 AM to 1 PM. Participants will discover the stories left behind by local wildlife in the snow and enjoy an immersive outdoor experience.

Indulging in GMF’s maple syrup is more than a culinary experience—it’s a sustainable, health-conscious choice. With a lower glycemic index than processed sugar and packed with nutrients, GMF’s syrup is as wholesome as it is delicious. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore a tradition that blends history, cutting-edge research, and environmental stewardship.

About Great Mountain Forest
Great Mountain Forest (GMF) is a leader in forest stewardship. For more than a century, we have been demonstrating how sustainable management can protect biodiversity and support ecosystems. By serving as a hub for education and research, we are spreading the benefits of sustainable management so that communities across New England derive educational, economic, recreational and health benefits from their forests—now and well into the future. GMF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit encompassing 6,200 acres of contiguous forestland in Norfolk, Canaan, and Falls Village Connecticut.

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