Tag: CT Travel

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

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Discover Treasures at the Glebe House Attic Sale May 18

Get ready to step back in time and uncover vintage gems at the Attic Sale hosted by the historic Glebe House Museum, 49 Hollow Road in charming Woodbury, Connecticut! Join the fun on Saturday, May 18, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, where antique lovers, collectors, and curious shoppers alike can browse a curated selection of unique finds. From antique furniture and elegant home décor to garden treasures, fine china, artwork, and exquisite glassware, this sale offers something for every style and taste.

This year’s sale is extra special as the Glebe House Museum is celebrating a remarkable milestone – 100 years as a house museum, preserving the rich tapestry of early American life. Don’t miss the centerpiece of the centennial celebration—a glamorous Great Gatsby-themed gala on Friday, June 27 at 6 p.m. at Aria in Prospect. Enjoy an evening of live music, gourmet food and drinks, signature cocktails, and thrilling silent and live auctions. It’s the perfect excuse to dress your best and raise a glass to a century of history, story telling, and preservation. Tickets to this gala event, Cheers to 100 Years, are available online www.glebehousemuseum.org

Built around 1750 and lovingly restored in 1923 under the vision of Henry Watson Kent—the mastermind behind the American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art—the Glebe House stands as a living tribute to colonial heritage. Every dollar spent at the Attic Sale goes directly to supporting its restoration and educational programs, including the stunning Gertrude Jekyll Garden, the only one of its kind in the United States.

So, whether you’re a seasoned antique hunter or just love a good find, come shop for a cause and take home a piece of history. Cash, checks, and credit cards accepted, but please—no early birds! Let the treasure hunt begin!

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Whiting Mills Spooktacular Event October 5 and 6 and Tina’s Baskets and Woven Art

On Saturday, October 5th and Sunday, October 6, ghosts, goblins, witches, and other heroes of horrors will abound in Whiting Mills located at 100 Whiting Street, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thirty Artists’ Studios will be open and brimming with frightful delights, oddities, tantalizing treats, and whimsically spooky creations. In addition to exploring working artist studios decked out for Halloween, there will be scavenger hunts, a costume contest for adults and children, an interactive monster display, and candy for all trick-or-treaters! Best of all the admission to this event is FREE.

Take a chance to win this basket!

One studio not to be missed is Tina’s Baskets and Woven Arts which has been cleverly decorated with all things Halloween. Tina Puckett is an internationally award-winning woven artist specializing in everything from intricate baskets and bowls to woven sculptures and wall hangings. When visiting the studio don’t miss the chance to enter the drawing to win a beautiful Gothic black basket embellished by bittersweet that is brimming with Halloween candy!

If you can’t make it to the Spooktacular event @ Whiting Mills on October 5th and 6th, no worries, Tina’s studio will remain decorated through October and will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information about this award-winning artist as well as information about her classes visit tinasbaskets.com.

About Tina’s Baskets
Tina Puckett is an internationally awarded weaver of baskets and woven arts. You can see her works in her studio #305/ Tina’s Baskets. Located at Whiting Mills in Winsted, Connecticut. Tina has been weaving since 1981 using hand-dyed reeds, bittersweet vines, and a variety of found objects like beads or seagrass. Her work is showcased at galleries across the World and as well at her gallery/studio where you will often find her weaving on weekends from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Appointments are preferred and can be arranged by texting 860-309-6934.

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The West Cemetery Lantern Tour Returns in Bristol

Ready to get into a Halloween mood? Why not head to Bristol for the West Cemetery Lantern Tour on Saturday, October 5th, and Sunday, October 6th. Guests will go on a guided evening stroll through West Cemetery, and along the way be introduced to notable cemetery “residents” who will share some of their history with attendees. This is a spooktacular way to spend an evening and learn a little about Bristol’s history.

Tours will step off at 6:00pm, 6:20pm, 6:40pm, 7:00pm, 7:20pm, 7:40pm, and 8:00pm. The first tour is intended for those who prefer a daylight option.

The rain date for both days is October 12. If we have to use the rain date, those who have signed up will be notified by email and the change will be posted on our website and Facebook page. Suggestion donation for the tours is $10. Reservations for the tours are required and can be made online via Sign Up Genius:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60B0C4AA9AA2DA7F58-51412733-west or by emailing president@bristolhistoricalsociety.org

If you prefer to meet your cemetery reenactors inside, we are inviting the public to a dress rehearsal on October 4 at 7pm at the Bristol Historical Society at 98 Summer Street. We will have refreshments, programs with information about the historical figures portrayed, and a period for questions from the audience. The suggested donation for both the regular tour and the dress rehearsal is $10. Reservations for the Dress Rehearsal are recommended and can be made by calling 860-583-6309 or emailing president@bristolhistoricalsociety.org

JanetLeave a comment

Get Ready for Old Fashioned Fun Italian Style!

Bocce’s origins can be traced back to 5200 B.C. with ancient Egyptian artwork that depicts boys playing a game that resembles bocce. As bocce’s popularity grew, it spread through Asia Minor and was adopted by the Greeks and passed on to the Roman Empire. Bocce can be played by anyone, young and old alike, and because of its ease and versatility, it spread throughout the world. Bocce has even made it to Norfolk, Connecticut! Get ready to join the fun on October 6 for Norfolk, Connecticut’s 6th annual Bocce Tournament beginning at 3 p.m.

So get your Bocce team together and head to Norfolk’s Bocce Court located at 10 Station Place. This year brackets start to form at 3 pm and the rolling will start as soon as two teams are assembled. If you want your team to have a guaranteed spot, please email lboucher@norfolkmgmt.com This year event organizers are planning to run 8 teams with 4 people on each team to let as many people play as possible. If you have less than 4 people we may merge you with another small team. Participants will be treated to pizza! Winners will have an engraved name place on the Fence of Fame to be admired for all time!

If you want to take your chances on playing, you’re also welcome to show up and join a team when you arrive if there are spots available! This is a fun fall afternoon and you might end up on our Fence of Fame! If you don’t want to play, half the fun is cheering on your favorite team!

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Bradley Airport Celebrates National Dog Day!

Bradley International Airport (BDL) is helping to spread joy by celebrating National Dog Day. Several four-legged members of the Bradley Buddies therapy dog program, along with their human counterparts, were at BDL today, walking through the terminal and interacting with travelers.

The larger-than-normal grouping of fury friends allowed passengers to stop and pet the dogs and even take photos for National Dog Day. Some of the breeds that were part of today’s visit included a German shepherd, Australian shepherd, border collie, goldendoodle, golden retriever, and Yorkshire terrier.

The Bradley Buddies program, which was launched in August 2017, is marking its seventh anniversary this month. The certified therapy dogs visit the airport regularly to help brighten the day of passengers as they arrive and depart from BDL. There are currently a total of 16 teams participating in the program.

Bradley Buddies is organized in partnership with Bright Spot Therapy Dogs, Inc. For more information about the Bradley Buddies program, visit www.bradleyairport.com/bradley-buddies

About Bradley International Airport

Bradley International Airport (BDL) is New England’s second-largest airport. Recognized nationally by leading travel publications for its ease of travel, Bradley International Airport is ready to welcome you with new nonstops and expanded services. The award-winning airport is operated by the Connecticut Airport Authority, and its operations are entirely self-funded. The airport contributes nearly $3.6 billion to the regional economy. For more info, visit http://www.bradleyairport.com.

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