Tag: CT event

Great Mountain Forest Opens Sugarhouse for Maple Sugaring Day March 22, 2026

On Sunday, March 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Great Mountain Forest invites the community to experience the art and science of maple sugaring at its sugarhouse on 201 Windrow Road. Visitors can meet GMF foresters, learn how sap becomes syrup, and take home a bottle of the forest’s acclaimed “forest-to-table” maple syrup.

For more than 80 years, Great Mountain Forest has combined maple sugaring with research and sustainable forestry. Its sugarbushes not only produce high-quality syrup but also support wildlife habitat for migratory birds. As Connecticut’s first bird-friendly maple syrup producer, GMF exemplifies how healthy forests can benefit both syrup enthusiasts and native wildlife.

Maintaining healthy sugarbush forests is more important now than ever as warming temperatures and shifting weather patterns challenge maple trees and the species that depend on them. This year, GMF is at the forefront of a new research initiative studying how sugarbush stands support early-season pollinators—an essential part of the regional ecosystem.

A unique feature of GMF’s sugaring program is its Sap House diary, a record kept for over 80 years that tracks sap production, syrup yields, weather patterns, migratory bird arrivals, and tree budding cycles. Executive Director Mike Zarfos calls it “an insightful window into the forest’s past and an invaluable resource for studying our changing climate, forest health, and syrup production.” It offers crucial, long-term data on climate change impacts, forest health, and the intricate relationship between trees and wildlife.

Location: Great Mountain Forest Sugarhouse, 201 Windrow Road, Norfolk, CT
Time: Sunday, March 22, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

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.

JanetLeave a comment

Bringing Women’s History Out of the Shadows

When we think of history, it’s easy to picture the famous kings, generals, and founding fathers—but what about the women whose lives were woven into the tapestry of revolution and empire? The Middlebury Historical Society invites you to a fascinating lecture, “Four 18th-Century Women of the Time of Rochambeau,” where these stories finally take center stage. Join historian and author Jini Jones Vail on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 6:00 PM at the Shepardson Community Center for a fresh look at women who made their mark—often in the background, but always essential.

Vail’s talk will introduce you to remarkable figures from every corner of society: Queen Marie Antoinette, shining brightly at Versailles amidst growing unrest; Countess de Rochambeau, balancing diplomacy and the uncertainties of military life; Martha Washington, standing steadfast beside her husband through war; and an unnamed camp follower, whose tireless support kept armies marching. By sharing these diverse experiences, Vail brings to life a more vibrant and complete picture of the American Revolution.

After the video presentation, you’ll have the chance to join an in-person discussion with Jini Jones Vail herself. Whether you’re a dedicated history buff or simply curious, this is a wonderful opportunity to ask questions, share thoughts, and connect with fellow community members.

Admission is free, and all are welcome!
Location: Shepardson Community Center, Middlebury, CT
Details: middleburyhistoricalsociety.org
This event also highlights the Society’s ongoing work on the Rochambeau Monument Project at Meadowview Park, commemorating the pivotal 1781 French army encampment in Middlebury. If you’re interested in supporting this effort or learning more about the project’s impact, please visit the Society’s website. Let’s celebrate the past—and the remarkable women who shaped it—together!

JanetLeave a comment

The Danbury Concert Association presents Ilya Yakushev, piano Sunday, March 22 at 3:00 p.m.

Renowned pianist Ilya Yakushev will make his Danbury debut at the stunning Visual & Performing Arts Center of Western Connecticut State University on Sunday, March 22 at 3:00 p.m. The third of four concerts in the Danbury Concert Association’s

Renowned pianist Ilya Yakushev
2025/26 series will feature works by Beethoven, Bach, Rachmaninoff, Gershwin, and Liszt, and be followed by a meet-the-artist reception that is open to all.

Tickets will be available on WCSU’s Eventbrite page for $25, and admission is free for ages 18 and under courtesy of a grant from the Danbury Cultural Commission.

About the artist
Ilya Yakushev has mesmerized audiences at major venues around the world, including Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall; Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco; Sejong Performing Arts Center in Seoul, Korea; Great Philharmonic Hall in St. Petersburg; and Victoria Hall in Singapore. His many awards include first prizes at the 2005 World Piano Competition in Cincinnati and, at age 12, the Young Artists Concerto Competition in his native St. Petersburg. A New York Times critic has noted that “Mr. Yakushev…cultivates a fiery, impetuous persona with both energy and brash humor…ready to pounce but delicate…at the keyboard he can do just about anything he wants.”

About the Visual & Performing Arts Center (VPAC)
The VPAC’s Veronica Hagman Concert Hall (located at 43 Lake Ave. Extension in Danbury) has been a premier performance venue since it opened in 2014. The acoustics are excellent, and the vibe is at once casual and refined. With the hall’s open, in-the-round seating (for up to 350) each concertgoer can sit back and enjoy the artist–audience connection.

Mark your calendar for the fourth and final performance of the series, featuring cellist Sophie Shao & Friends, on Sunday, June 7 at 3 p.m. See https://www.danburyconcert.org/ for details.

About the Danbury Concert Association
The DCA, a 501(c)(3) organization, has a local, volunteer board that organizes its series. Thanks to support from individual and corporate donors, and granting organizations like the Danbury Cultural Commission, it brings exceptional artists to the stunning concert hall on WCSU’s west side campus. The DCA invites everyone who wants to experience “beautiful music, where they live” to come to its concerts.

JanetLeave a comment

Experience the Art of Chair Rushing and Caning with Susannah Anderson @ Weekend in Norfolk

On Sunday, February 22, from 10 am to 2 pm at the Berkshire County Store, during Weekend in Norfolk, you will find Susannah Anderson, immersed in a craft that ties beauty, patience, and heritage together: chair rushing and hole to hole caning. With every meticulous weave, Susannah breathes new life into worn chairs, preserving heirloom furniture, and the rich, layered stories embedded in each seat.

Susannah’s path to chair weaving began with a deeply personal motivation: a family heirloom. “When my in-laws downsized, they passed on a few pieces of furniture, including a pair of worn Danish modern chairs,” she recalls. Intrigued and determined to restore them, she dove into online tutorials. In 2019, she re-wove the chairs. What many craftspeople love about rushing and caning is the almost meditative rhythm of wrapping and knotting. There is something magical about watching the geometric patterns gradually unfold, transforming a tired chair back into both beauty and usefulness. For Susannah, each woven chair is more than just a piece of furniture; it’s a labor of love and a thread connecting decades of use.

That initial spark soon ignited a wider passion. From Danish cord to ash splint, from a neighbor’s heirloom chair to a canoe seat her father was restoring, each new project added to her skill set. “I see rushing and caning as a way for people to be able to use a chair they love. If someone has had a chair with a broken seat for years it must mean something to them, to save it and be willing to put money into getting it fixed – or even a beloved thrifted item. People seem very glad to be able to use their chairs again,” Susannah shares.

Woven rush seating has a long and fascinating history, stretching all the way back to ancient Egypt, where bulrushes were transformed into strong, comfortable seats. Over the centuries, this craft grew in popularity—particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries in England and Colonial America, where country-style ladder back and spindle back chairs became household staples. Although the art of rush seating saw a decline in the 20th century, largely due to the loss of skilled craftsmen during wartime, it’s now making a wonderful comeback, thanks to renewed interest in the Arts and Crafts Movement.

Today, rushing a chair involves working with both durable twisted paper—known as fiber rush—and natural materials like bulrush or twisted cattail leaves. The result is a beautifully textured, sturdy seat that combines practical strength with nostalgic charm. Chair caning, by contrast, uses the glossy outer layer of rattan palm vine to create a seat that’s lightweight, breathable, and remarkably strong. Whether can is hand-woven through holes or pressed in as a pre-woven mesh, each technique adds its own distinctive touch.

Susannah, a painter, brings her keen artistic eye and a true passion for craftsmanship to every restoration project. She carefully assesses each chair’s needs and applies time-honored techniques to restore its beauty and function. While the process may look effortless, it demands patience, strong hands, and a meticulous attention to detail.

Keeping these age-old crafts alive is not without its challenges. Materials are more expensive now, and handmade work is always a labor of love. As Susannah notes, “Trying to keep a project affordable, while making a living, as we say, is the ongoing challenge.” Yet, her commitment to restoration over replacement, and preservation over mass production, shines through in every project.

Those lucky enough to visit her Sunday demonstrations get to witness something special: not just the repair of a chair, but the revival of a tradition. Each seat restored is a piece of history woven by hand, carried forward by dedication and artistry.

For more information on Weekend in Norfolk visit http://weekendinnorfolk.org And, for information on the studio of Susannah Anderson visit https://www.susannahandersonart.com

JanetLeave a comment

Celebrate the 9th Annual Winter Weekend in Norfolk – February 21 & 22, 2026

Get ready to experience winter at its finest during the 9th Annual Winter Weekend in Norfolk (WIN), happening Saturday, February 21, and Sunday, February 22. Set in the hills of northwestern Connecticut, every winter Norfolk transforms into a lively hub of creativity, community, and cold-weather charm. Whether you’re drawn by outdoor adventures, art exhibits, or toe-tapping live music, WIN brings together the best of small-town charm and seasonal cheer. Enjoy everything from concerts to hands-on workshops and family-friendly events—all wrapped in the winter beauty of New England. The best part of WIN is that most events are free! For a full lineup and details of events and activities, be sure to visit weekendinnorfolk.org



Free Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss
You may want to start your adventure by joining photographer Doug McDevitt for a hands-on Winter Photography Workshop, where you’ll pick up expert tips on capturing the season’s natural glow and composing truly stunning shots. Then, step outside and explore the breathtaking, unspoiled beauty of Norfolk—a true winter wonderland just waiting to be framed. It’s the perfect chance to sharpen your skills while creating images worthy of Instagram!

Nature lovers, you won’t want to miss the Norfolk Conservation Committee’s native wildflower seed giveaway! It’s the perfect chance to pick up some seeds and learn how to transform your own backyard into a buzzing pollinator paradise. If you lean more toward art and history, you’re in for a treat—take a tour of the stunning stained glass windows at Battell Chapel, Church of Christ Congregational and Immaculate Conception Church. These breathtaking works are historic masterpieces by renowned artisans like Louis Comfort Tiffany, D. Maitland Armstrong, and Franz Mayer of Munich.

For history buffs and fashion enthusiasts alike, The Romance of Worth: The Eldridge Sisters and the Centennial at the Norfolk Historical Society is a must-see. This captivating exhibition unveils decades of history through the lives of the Eldridge family, with a special spotlight on two bespoke gowns made by the House of Worth, the legendary 19th century Parisian fashion house credited with inventing haute couture. To deepen the experience, visitors are invited to a special gallery talk offering rare insights into the painstaking process of restoring these delicate garments for display.

For fans of interior design and historic craftsmanship, WIN offers another wonder: a live demonstration of the ancient art of chair rushing—a practice dating back to the 4th century BCE, at the Berkshire Store. Artisan Susannah Anderson brings this timeless skill to life, weaving reeds and natural fibers to create supportive, beautiful seats right before your eyes. Rushing, along with other seat-weaving techniques such as cane and Danish cord, reflects generations of practical artistry that remains relevant in artisanal furnishing today. After soaking in fashion history, and living craftsmanship, round out your WIN day out at Joseph Stannard Antiques & Design’s open house.

Art aficionados can dive into Norfolk’s vibrant scene as well. Explore two artists’ studios, Ruthann Olsson’s and Cheryl Heller’s, and connect with artists Katie Atkinson and Jeremiah Bickford during special Meet the Artist sessions to uncover the inspiration behind their work. And be sure to see the pop up art show by the Norfolk Artists & Friends at Wildwood 1880, a classic Victorian inn; they’ll be holding an early bird reception on Friday evening. Wildwood 1880 is also hosting a pop-up bakery and bookshop to add to the fun.

Sports enthusiasts, don’t miss the action at the Norfolk Curling Club, where you can soak up the excitement of live curling matches while enjoying refreshments in a cozy atmosphere. It’s a rare opportunity to witness the fascinating strategy and teamwork behind one of the world’s oldest sports! If you’re a fishing fan, there’s a special Fly Tying workshop—perfect for both curious beginners and seasoned anglers eager to refine their craft.

Families are well taken care of, too. On Sunday, the Hub transforms into a downtown haven for kids, offering children’s films, hot chocolate, and popcorn—all the ingredients for a perfect family outing on a chilly day, courtesy of the Hub and the National Iron Bank. And, up at Botelle Elementary School, there’s a blizzard of fun things for kids and their parents to do.

As always, Norfolk’s love for music comes alive at this year’s Winter WIN. Warm up with an exciting lineup—feel the energy of a brass quintet at the Norfolk Library, relax to the soulful sounds of Michael Cobb’s at The Hub, and be dazzled by award-winning pianist Po-Wei Ger’s classical concert.


In addition to all these free events, there’s so much more happening. The Icebox Café and Berkshire Country Store are rolling out WIN Weekend specials you won’t want to miss, and two pop-up bakeries are joining the fun with irresistible treats. Then there are events that are ticketed, including a mushroom workshop, or that request a donation, such as an evening coffeehouse with live music and refreshments. For a full schedule and the latest updates, visit weekendinnorfolk.org

The WIN Committee, now in its twelfth year, is a volunteer-powered team dedicated to organizing Norfolk’s Summer and Winter WIN festivals. With support from town officials, the Economic Development Commission, and countless local organizations and individuals, these events welcome visitors from near and far to experience all that Norfolk has to offer

JanetLeave a comment

Ready to Run Wild? Join the Legendary Human Dog Sled Race at Jumpfest! February 6

Get ready to make this winter legendary. JumpFest returns February 6-8, celebrating 100 years of ski jumping excitement, and you are invited to join the action! Don’t miss the chance to participate in JumpFest’s famous Human Dog Sled Race! Hosted by the Salisbury Winter Sports Association (SWSA), this is your ticket to outrageous fun, fierce competition, and memories you’ll be talking about all year. Best of all, on Friday night entry to Jumpfest is free to all.

On Friday, February 6, 2026, Satre Hill lights up for an electrifying night. Watch Olympic hopefuls soar off the jumps, then stick around as the Human Dog Sled Race kicks off under brand-new, state-of-the-art lights. This isn’t just a race—it’s a full-throttle spectacle you won’t find anywhere else.

Want in on the action? Cash prizes and ultimate bragging rights are up for grabs! Rally your crew of six (everyone 18+) and get ready to power your sled down a .3-mile snow-packed track. Five teammates pull, one rides shotgun—no huskies required, just pure human horsepower and plenty of laughs!

But speed isn’t your only weapon. The People’s Choice Award goes to the most creative costumes and wildest sled designs. Go steampunk, go retro, go totally out there—if you can dream it, you can race it. Blow the crowd away and claim your place in Jumpfest history!

Here’s how to join the fun:
Registration: Open now through Friday, February 6 at 6 p.m. Sign up at jumpfest.org.
Entry Fee: Just $25 per team—includes free Jumpfest admission!
Check-In: Arrive when the ticket booth opens at 6 p.m. to get set and secure your spot.
Race Time: The adrenaline starts pumping at 8:30 p.m., right after the Target Jumps.

Friday night at Jumpfest is the ultimate alpine party you’ll talk about all year. Picture this: glowing luminaries line your path, roaring bonfires keep you warm, and the food and drinks never run out. Feel the energy as professional announcers call out every twist and turn of the ski jumping and the wild Human Dog Sled Race, all set against a breathtaking winter panorama.

And when you think the night can’t get any better, look up! Fireworks will erupt from the base of the towering 250-foot hill, painting the sky with color for miles around. It’s a show you’ll see, hear, and feel—lighting up Salisbury in celebration of a century of ski jumping tradition. There’s no better way to kick off 100 years of winter thrills!

All proceeds fuel SWSA’s Junior Ski Programs—so you’re not just racing for glory, you’re supporting future snow stars, too! Don’t just watch the action—be part of it. Dress up, team up, and let your wild side run loose. This is winter fun, Salisbury-style. For all the details and to register your team, visit jumpfest.org

About SWSA:
The Salisbury Winter Sports Association is on a mission to share the thrill of Nordic ski jumping, cross-country, and Alpine skiing with everyone. Through events like Jumpfest, we keep the spirit of winter sports alive in Salisbury, Connecticut, and beyond.

JanetLeave a comment