Category: News

Free Events, Live Music, Local Flavor – Weekend in Norfolk (WIN) July 31- August 2, 2026

(WIN) celebrates its 11th year from Friday, July 31, through Sunday, August 2, with a three-day weekend of music, art, food, history, and outdoor activities. One of the weekend highlights is the expanded Sidewalk Sunday on August 2, from 12 PM to 4 PM on Station Place. With the street closed to traffic, it becomes a lively pedestrian space where visitors can shop handmade goods, meet local makers, and enjoy live music.

Garden lovers will find plenty to enjoy. Sunday’s garden tours open four exquisite private gardens, including Woodland Pathways and Feeding Body and Soul. Visitors can also explore
Norfolk’s community garden, learn composting tricks from master composter Doug Semmes, and pick up a free herb seedling, while supplies last. For treasure hunters, there is a town-wide tag sale, and for art lovers there are shows at the Art Barn and the Norfolk Library as well as an open artist studio.

Music fills the weekend, with many free performances. Friday opens with a concert on the Green and live music at Infinity Music Hall’s Bistro on all three days. Saturday features the free Emerging Artists concert at the Music Shed, and live performances on Robertson Plaza. On Sunday, enjoy another round of free concerts, plus a children’s concert and ice cream social at the Music Shed.

WIN also offers plenty of ways to get outdoors. Start Friday with a plant and bird walk at City Meadow, then choose from Saturday’s yoga on the Green or a guided gravel bike ride with the Rails to Trails Committee. On Sunday, enjoy lawn games and a bring-your-own picnic lunch at the award-winning Manor House Inn. Visitors can also explore Norfolk’s scenic trails or attend a free fly-fishing workshop at Wood Creek Pond. Families will find plenty to enjoy as well, including bubble art at the Botelle School and family-friendly activities hosted by the Norfolk Volunteer Fire Department, featuring a bounce house and an obstacle course that introduces children to basic firefighting skills.

History and culture are also front and center. The Norfolk Historical Society’s exhibit brings the Revolutionary War era to life, while tours of local landmarks such as Battell Chapel and the Immaculate Conception Church show off exquisite stained-glass windows by Tiffany and others, and a tour of the Whitehouse offers a closer look at Norfolk’s rich past. At The Hub, Aton Forest is putting on an exhibit showing the history of the many conservation projects its founders undertook. And for something truly global, head to the Connecticut-Asia Cultural Center, which offers exhibits, complimentary Asian lunch boxes, Dragon Boat Racing, bonsai demonstrations, and tea ceremonies.

When it’s time to eat, Norfolk delivers. Local favorites like the Icebox Cafe, Berkshire Country Store, and Infinity Bistro are serving up delicious options and WIN specials, while food trucks and pop-up vendors add even more variety throughout the weekend. All offer take-out, and Mountain Spirit Liquor is offering its own WIN specials to go with your picnic. With most events free and everything close by, WIN makes it easy to explore at your own pace. Whether you come for the music, the art, the history, or simply the atmosphere, you’ll leave with more than a good weekend—you’ll leave with a sense of belonging. Explore the full, daily-updated schedule at Weekend in Norfolk and plan your perfect summer weekend. For more information https://weekendinnorfolk.org/

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This August Step Into the 18th Century at Glebe House Hands-on History brings Colonial Life to Kids.

In a time when children are surrounded by screens, packed schedules, and digital distractions, the summer programs at the Glebe House Museum in Woodbury offers something refreshingly different: a chance to slow down, step into history, and learn through experience.

For more than 36 years, the Glebe House Museum’s Summer Experience programs have invited children to discover the past in a way that is both educational and memorable. Designed for children ages 6–12, these programs go far beyond traditional classroom learning. Instead of simply reading about colonial life, campers get to live it.

Two Unique August Programs

This August, the museum is offering two special camp opportunities.The first program runs August 3–7, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. During this week, children will explore the treasures of the Glebe House Museum through colonial crafts, candle making, butter churning, historic games, and nature-based activities. Children will also visit the Gertrude Jekyll Garden, learn about herbal remedies and kitchen gardens, and create nature-inspired art.

A second, newly expanded program will take place August 10–12, from 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. In partnership with Flanders Nature Center and Land Trust, this immersive experience places children in the daily lives of people who lived during the American Revolutionary War. In a year when the nation is commemorating its 250th birthday, the program offers a timely and engaging way for young people to understand the realities of colonial life.

Set in the historic Glebe House, built in 1750, these programs focus on the practical skills needed for survival and comfort in the colonial era. Under the guidance of historical interpreters, children will use period-appropriate tools and techniques to better understand how people worked, lived, and adapted in a very different world.

Beyond the historical learning, these programs provide something equally important: a safe, enriching environment where children can build confidence, creativity, and independence.

With support from the Ion Bank Foundation, the Glebe House continues to offer programs that nurture both minds and imaginations. The museum’s approach combines education with play, making the summer experience valuable for children and reassuring for families.

For parents looking for a program that blends history, nature, creativity, and hands-on discovery, the Glebe House camp offers a compelling option. It is a chance for children to step away from the noise of modern life and into another world—one filled with learning, exploration, and wonder.

Registration Information

For details or to register, visit http://www.glebehousemuseum.org, or contact the museum at 203-263-2855 or office @glebehousemuseum.org Early Bird pricing through June 30.

About the Glebe House & Garden
Nestled in the scenic Litchfield Hills in the heart of historic Woodbury, the Glebe House Museum offers a unique look at Revolutionary War-era Connecticut. The restored 18th-century farmhouse, once home to Reverend John Rutgers Marshall and his family, is furnished to reflect daily life during the American War for Independence. Opened to the public in 1925, the Glebe House is one of the nation’s earliest historic house museums and has welcomed visitors for over a century. Its restoration was led by Henry Watson Kent, a leading figure in American decorative arts. Gertrude Jekyll, one of the most influential garden designers of the 20th century, designed the museum’s garden in 1926. This classic English-style garden features 350 feet of vibrant mixed borders and is the only surviving example of Jekyll’s work in the United States. The garden is now in its fourth year of full restoration.

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Wine, Cheese & Art Please A Garden Party to Savor at the Glebe House Museum

In the early days of summer, as fragrant blooms fill the air and golden light drifts through historic trees and gardens, the Glebe House Museum & Gertrude Jekyll Garden—one of earliest historic house museums in the country invites you to experience something truly extraordinary. On Saturday, May 30th (Rain Date: May 31st) from 4:00 – 7:00 pm, the museum will host a festive fundraiser, “Wine, Cheese & Art Please,” at 49 Hollow Road in Woodbury. The celebration unfolds in the museum’s renowned Gertrude Jekyll Garden, designed in 1926 by the famed English horticultural designer, writer, and artist Gertrude Jekyll. Influential in shaping modern garden design, Jekyll’s work is revered around the world—and this garden remains the only surviving example of her design in the United States.

Adding artistic vibrancy to the event are 12 talented artists, showcasing work in a rich array of styles and media. From abstract canvases to delicate pastels, charcoal portraits to cutting-edge digital work, ceramics to poetry books, there is truly something for every art lover. Guests can watch works come to life, commission original pieces, and even sit for a portrait! Participating artists include: Raffaela Arcamone, Becky Butler, Sandy Carlson, Sharon Curran, Sandra Daignault, Sharon Famiglietti, David Jean, ShawnaLee W. Kwashnak, Kathleen L’Hommedieu, Lucy Pierpont, Christiane Schmohl, and Aaliyah Willets. Every purchase carries added purpose: 20% of all art sales support the Glebe House Museum, a National Historic Landmark, which has operated as a museum for 101 years. A silent auction featuring specially selected items will provide yet another opportunity to support the museum’s preservation efforts.

Guests are invited to indulge in a selection of tasty bites, each chosen to elevate the experience. The menu features delectable cheeses from New Curds on the Block, fresh oysters supplied by To the Gills, and an enticing array of sweet and savory hors d’oeuvres. Enhancing these culinary offerings is a selection of fine wines, including the renowned Walker Road Vineyard’s “Gertrude’s Garden.” Each pairing has been selected to enhance this historic setting, creating an atmosphere perfect for lingering and savoring every moment. With glass in hand and surrounded by natural beauty and intriguing pieces of art, this promises to be an experience to remember, while supporting history for future generations.

Guests will also have the unique opportunity to explore the main floor of the Glebe House during the early evening hours—a rare occasion, as the home is seldom open to the public at this time. Authentically furnished to reflect its Revolutionary War era origins, the house offers an immersive glimpse into the daily life of Reverend John Rutgers Marshall and his family, who once resided in the “glebe.” Touring these historic rooms in the soft, ambient light provides an atmospheric experience, evoking a sense of what life might have been like before electricity, when candlelight softly illuminated the walls.

Whether you come for the wine & bites, the art, the historic home, or the internationally celebrated garden, “Wine, Cheese & Art Please” promises a joyful celebration of creativity, community, and preservation. All proceeds from Wine, Cheese & Art directly benefit the Glebe House Museum & Gertrude Jekyll Garden, ensuring that its history, garden, and educational programs continue for generations to come.

Event Details:

What: Wine, Cheese & Art Please

Where: Glebe House Museum 49 Hollow Road, Woodbury

When: Saturday, May 30th (Rain Date: May 31st) 4:00 – 7:00 pm

Tickets: $30 per person For online ticket purchases and additional information, visit: http://www.glebehousemuseum.org

To reserve tickets by check or cash 203-263-2855 / office@glebehousemuseum.org

About the Glebe House & Garden
Nestled in the scenic Litchfield Hills in the heart of historic Woodbury, the Glebe House Museum offers a unique look at Revolutionary War-era Connecticut. The restored 18th-century farmhouse, once home to Reverend John Rutgers Marshall and his family, is furnished to reflect daily life during the American War for Independence. Opened to the public in 1925, the Glebe House is one of the nation’s earliest historic house museums and has welcomed visitors for over a century. Its restoration was led by Henry Watson Kent, a leading figure in American decorative arts. Gertrude Jekyll, one of the most influential garden designers of the 20th century, designed the museum’s garden in 1926. This classic English-style garden features 350 feet of vibrant mixed borders and is the only surviving example of Jekyll’s work in the United States. The garden is now in its fourth year of full restoration.

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Spring Tea at the Mansion: Step Into the Gardens of the Gilded Age

The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum in Norwalk, CT invites you to experience an enchanting afternoon at their annual Spring Tea at the Mansion on Sunday, May 3, from 2–4 p.m. This highly anticipated event, chaired by LMMM Trustee Lynne H. Byington, promises a delightful blend of history, horticulture, and High Tea in a stunning historic setting.

A Glimpse Into Gilded Age Grandeur
Highlighting this year’s Spring Tea is a captivating presentation by renowned author, speaker, and garden designer Jana Milbocker. Her talk, “Gardens of the Gilded Age,” is a richly illustrated journey through the breathtaking estates and legendary landscapes designed for America’s most illustrious families — the Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, and du Ponts — and the visionary architects who brought their dreams to life.

Guests will be transported to a time of unparalleled elegance and discover the stories behind these magnificent gardens, learning about the people and artistry that shaped them. Ms. Milbocker, based in the Boston area, is the author of four influential garden travel guides profiling 310 gardens along the East Coast. With decades of experience as an art director, marketing specialist, and garden enthusiast, her expertise promises an inspiring look into America’s horticultural heritage.



Afternoon Revelry in Historic Style
The Spring Tea offers much more than tea and treats. Attendees will enjoy:


Luxurious tea refreshments curated for a true Gilded Age experience
A hat contest—show off your most elegant or whimsical headwear
A silent auction featuring exclusive gifts donated by local businesses
A special drawing for added excitement
As Lynne H. Byington notes, “The Tea Committee is thrilled to open the Mansion’s doors for another memorable afternoon. Guests will enjoy a lavish tea, shop for gifts, and revel in the Gilded Age, while learning about its magnificent gardens from author Jana Milbocker.”

Event Details & Reservations
Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026
Time: 2:00–4:00 p.m.
Location: 295 West Avenue, Norwalk, CT
Tickets: $65 for members, $75 for non-members
RSVP by April 24th (hats encouraged!)
Reserve: lockwoodmathewsmansion.com, email info@lockwoodmathewsmansion.com, or call 203-838-9799 ext. 113.
Tickets are limited and reservations are required. All proceeds will benefit the Museum’s cultural and educational programs.

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Spring on the Sound: Norwalk Seaport Association’s 2026 Cruises Promise Unforgettable Cruises for Birders, Sunset Chasers, and Families

When spring arrives in Connecticut, it brings with it the start of something truly special: the Norwalk Seaport Association’s 2026 cruise season! Whether you’re searching for colorful seabirds, the perfect sunset, or a magical family outing to a historic lighthouse, this lineup delivers the ultimate maritime experience.

Bird-Watching Cruises: Witness Nature’s Most Magical Migration

Calling all nature lovers! Every Sunday in May (May 10, 17, 24, and 31), early risers can embark on guided bird-watching cruises departing at 7:30 a.m. from the Seaport’s dock at 90 Water Street in Norwalk.

As you glide along Long Island Sound—a crucial stop on the Atlantic Flyway—an expert guide will help you spot migrating and nesting birds, including birds that make Sheffield Island their home. Expect to see everything from herring gulls to great black-backed gulls up close! Don’t forget: Bring your camera and binoculars—these moments are meant to be shared.

Sunset Cruises: Pure Magic on the Water

If you prefer your adventures with a touch of romance or relaxation, the Seaport Association’s Sunset Cruises are for you. Set sail from May 20–24 and May 27–31 at 6:30 p.m. for a two-hour journey past Norwalk’s islands and lighthouses—including the famed Peck’s, Green Ledge, and Sheffield Island Light. Bring your favorite snacks and beverages (plastic cups, please!) and soak in the golden hour as the captain’s mate shares tales of the harbor’s rich history. Cruises continue daily and on weekends through August, promising plenty of chances to toast the sunset with friends and family.

Sheffield Island Lighthouse Excursions: Explore History, Nature, and Relaxation

For a truly immersive outing, join a Sheffield Island Lighthouse Excursion on May 23, 24, 30, or 31 (with more dates through August!). These three-hour tours offer a narrated cruise on a spacious ferry across Norwalk Harbor, views of three lighthouses, and a full hour exploring Sheffield Island. Enjoy a guided lighthouse tour, then treat yourself to a picnic at our seaside pavilion and a stroll on our beach—a perfect family adventure blending history, nature, and fun.

The Norwalk Seaport Association has been Connecticut’s gateway to the Sound since 1978, founded by locals passionate about preserving maritime history and natural beauty. Their cruises offer more than just a ride—they’re an invitation to connect with Connecticut’s coastal heritage, wildlife, and community spirit. Secure your tickets today at seaport.org and make this spring unforgettable.



About the Seaport Association
Founded in 1978, the Norwalk Seaport Association is dedicated to enriching lives through cultural, historical, and environmental experiences. By preserving sites like the Sheffield Island Lighthouse, the Association educates all ages about the importance of safeguarding our maritime legacy and natural treasures.

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Great Mountain Forest Launches Bat Activity Study or Discovering the Nightlife of Great Mountain Forest: A New Bat Activity Study

Great Mountain Forest (GMF) is embarking on an exciting new chapter in its efforts to support wildlife conservation, thanks to a generous grant from John T. and Jane A. Wiederhold Foundation, a supporting organization of the Northwest CT Community Foundation. This innovative project will shed light on the diverse group of elusive bat species that have been largely missing from the landscape for decades. GMF will work with partners at the University of Connecticut (UConn) and CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP) to track their activity across a range of forest habitats.

Despite their vital ecological roles, little is known about which state-listed bat species are returning to this region or how they interact with different forest environments and conditions. Forest managers and policymakers need this information to make informed decisions about conservation and sustainable forestry practices. With its rich history of forestry projects, GMF offers the perfect living laboratory to address these critical knowledge gaps.

Guided by Dr. Tracy Rittenhouse, two UConn undergraduates will use acoustic monitors to capture bat activity at 30 distinct sites throughout the forest. Dr. Devaughn Fraser, a wildlife biologist at CT DEEP will also contribute her expertise. Supporting them, a Master of Energy and Environmental Management intern, guided by Dr. Chadwick Rittenhouse, also of UConn, will leverage remote sensing to refine detailed maps of forest stands, wetlands, and management histories in partnership with GMF’s forester Kate Regan-Loomis. Three of GMF’s summer forestry interns – its 88th cohort – will conduct on-the-ground surveys, gathering data on forest tree species composition and structure. Together, these student researchers will create a robust dataset linking bat activity to habitat features across over 1,000 acres.

The results will seed future research and enhance GMF’s educational programs. Findings will be shared through K–12 science field trips and Woodland Academy workshops for landowners and professionals managing the region’s forests.

“This study marks a significant step toward understanding and protecting Connecticut’s bats. By combining student-driven research, academic expertise, and hands-on education, GMF is fostering a new generation of conservation leaders—and helping the region’s forests remain vibrant, resilient habitats for bats and other wildlife for years to come,” said Mike Zarfos, Executive Director of GMF.

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, and recreational and health benefits from their forests—now and well into the future. GMF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit encompassing 6,400 acres of contiguous forestland in Norfolk, Canaan, and Falls Village Connecticut.

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