Tag: family fun

Sip, Shop, and Fall in Love with Handcrafted Art at Whiting Mills

The world over, February is considered the month of love. There is no better way to celebrate than with a unique and heartwarming experience at the Annual Valentine’s Day “Sip and Shop” on February 8 from 11 am to 4 pm at Whiting Mills in Winsted.

This event offers more than just shopping—it’s a celebration of creativity, connection, and joy nestled within the historic walls of a beautiful 19th century restored mill. With more than 40 artisan studios to explore plus pop-ups, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the hum of creativity, the sparkle of handcrafted treasures, and a festive atmosphere perfect for celebrating romance, friendship, and a little self-love.

Tina’s Baskets and Woven Art – A Studio That Speaks from the Heart
Nestled within the rustic, Instagram-worthy walls of Whiting Mills, you’ll find Tina Puckett’s cozy working studio, #305—a place where fine art and heartfelt craftsmanship come together. Tina creates intricate baskets, bowls, wall hangings, and sculptures using her signature hand-dyed reeds and hand harvested natural materials like bittersweet vines and seagrass.

Each piece is one of a kind—a perfect metaphor for the uniqueness of the person you’re gifting it to. Visitors love chatting with Tina about the stories behind her work, watching her weave in real time, and discovering the artistic process that transforms humble materials into timeless expressions of love.

Forget mass produced gifts – this February say, “I Love You” with a gift that feels truly personal. Whether it’s a romantic present, a thank-you to mom, or a surprise for your best friend, a handcrafted piece from Tina’s Baskets and Woven Art says it all.

Tina’s studio is open weekends in February from 11 AM to 4 PM or by appointment for a private shopping session. Gift certificates for weaving classes and baskets are also available. For more information visit tinasbaskets.com or call (860) 309-6934.

About Tina Puckett
Tina Puckett has been mastering the art of weaving since 1981. Her work incorporates hand-dyed reeds, bittersweet vines, and other natural materials, creating pieces that are as durable as they are beautiful. A true artisan, Tina’s woven art is showcased in galleries throughout the United States, though her Whiting Mills studio remains the heart of her creative world. For custom orders or inquiries, text Tina directly at 860-309-6934 or visit tinasbaskets.com

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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.

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A Season of Style: Holiday Decorating @ Ridgefield Holiday House Tour December 6, 2025

The holidays are a magical time when our homes shine their brightest—warmed by twinkling lights, festive garlands, and the cozy glow of seasonal spirit. And if you’re looking for next-level inspiration to elevate your holiday décor this year, look no further than the Ridgefield Holiday House Tour on December 6, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each year, six remarkable properties, each with its own story and charm, open their doors to visitors, revealing how interior designers and homeowners weave timeless holiday style into every corner.

The Book Barn at Twilight

You’ll step inside treasures like The Book Barn, a lovingly restored 18th-century barn that once housed Emmy Sloan’s bookshop and tea retreat, and the William Jones House, a stately Greek Revival home filled with period furnishings and enduring grace. The tour also features the elegant Lewis Bailey House, an early-Victorian Italianate villa linked to one of Ridgefield’s prominent businessmen.

The William Jones House

History enthusiasts will be captivated by the Edwin Benedict House, an early 1800s farmhouse with fascinating ties to the post–Battle of Ridgefield era, as well as the peaceful Rectory at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church and its adjacent Colonial Revival sanctuary.

For those who appreciate a touch of the contemporary, the Orchard Estate blends modern Colonial style with the rich legacy of its historic grounds, once known simply as “The Orchard.”

The Orchard Estate

Serving as the heart of the festivities, on Main Street, the Lounsbury House, the former home of Governor Phineas Chapman Lounsbury, will glow with holiday lights and excitement. Here, guests can pick up tour tickets, browse the Holiday Market, and try their luck at the always-popular raffle featuring fabulous prizes from local businesses. Best of all, the Holiday Market and Raffle are open to the public, so everyone can join in the holiday cheer!

The Lewis Bailey House

Tickets for the highly anticipated Ridgefield Holiday House Tour are on sale now at
https://ridgefieldhistoricalsociety.org/programs-events/house-tour/, and they’re expected to sell out fast! Mark your calendar for Saturday, December 6, 2025, and get ready to experience the magic from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Choose from convenient timed entry slots at 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., or 1:00 p.m. Participants will enjoy bus transportation between beautifully decorated homes in southern Ridgefield, with two special sites just a short walk from the historic Lounsbury House. For more details or to secure your tickets, visit the website, email info@ridgefieldhistoricalsociety.org, or call 203-438-5821

Lounsbury House – 316 Main Street – Event Central!

Whether you’re decorating a cozy apartment or a big family home, the Ridgefield Holiday House Tour proves that inspiration is just around the corner. Let this charming Connecticut event light up your creative spirit—then bring that glow back home.

The Rectory


About the Ridgefield House Tour
The Ridgefield Holiday House Tour is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the festive season while discovering the rich architectural tapestry that makes Ridgefield truly unique. Presented by the Ridgefield Historical Society and Tiger Hollow, Inc., this tour celebrates the town’s fascinating evolution, one stunning home at a time. As Llewellyn Cheng, event co-chair and founder of LL & Co. Architecture + Interiors, shares, “We’re proud to collaborate on something that supports both the town’s heritage and its sense of community. It’s a magical event that brings neighbors together in the spirit of the holidays.”

Each stop along the tour offers a captivating glimpse into Ridgefield’s past, allowing you to experience firsthand how the town has grown and thrived over the centuries. We extend a warm thank you to the Karla Murtaugh Homes Team, the event’s Presenting Sponsor, for their unwavering generosity and support. As Stephen Bartkus, Executive Director of the Ridgefield Historical Society, notes, “Karla and her team have long been champions of community events and nonprofits throughout Ridgefield. Their partnership helps keep this beloved tradition alive and thriving.”

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Why Nature is the Best Medicine — Experience it at Great Mountain Forest

In today’s fast-paced, screen-saturated world, it’s easy to forget how healing nature can be. Yet for centuries, humans have found peace and rejuvenation in forest environments, drawn by the quiet atmosphere, fresh air, and the simple beauty of trees swaying in the breeze. Few places embody this restorative experience better than Great Mountain Forest, a 6,000-acre gem spanning Norfolk, Canaan, and Falls Village in the northwest corner of Connecticut. Here, the ancient practice of forest immersion—also known as Shinrin-yoku or forest bathing—can be truly embraced. This isn’t about hiking or physical exertion; it’s about slowing down, engaging all five senses, and reconnecting with the natural world in a meaningful, mindful way.

Jean’s Trail – photo credit Tom Blagdon

Scientific research has consistently shown that spending time in forest environments can reduce cortisol levels, lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality, boost the immune system, and enhance cardiovascular health. At Great Mountain Forest, these benefits are just a walk away.

With 13 miles of trails ranging from easy to challenging, Great Mountain Forest offers something for everyone. More than 16 trails weave through diverse ecosystems, where there are a multitude of sensory experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re listening to the whispers of rustling leaves, looking for wildlife, catching the earthy scent of moss and pine, or watching sunlight flicker through the canopy, each step brings you closer to nature—and to yourself.

Old Man McMUllen Pond, Gt. Mtn. Forest, Norfolk, CT Photo credit Tom Blagdon

Whether you’re a beginner enjoying the peaceful Tamarack Interpretive Trail around a dragonfly-dotted pond or an adventurer exploring the historic Charcoal Pit Trail, where remnants of 19th-century industry meet modern conservation, there’s a path for everyone. More adventurous explorers can venture into the Tobey Bog Trail, a unique ecosystem rich with pitcher plants and black spruce trees, or stand in awe among 400-year-old hemlocks on the North Forty Trail. Each trail offers a distinct sensory experience designed to help you slow down and truly be present.

More than just a place to walk, Great Mountain Forest is a living classroom. With year-round guided walking tours, tours, educational programs, and hands-on workshops in sustainable forest management, visitors of all ages can deepen their understanding of the natural world and their place within it. As Michael Zarfos, Executive Director of GMF, puts it: “In an age dominated by artificial surroundings and constant noise, forest immersion is a simple, powerful return to our roots.” At Great Mountain Forest, that return is always just a walk away.

For event information and to download maps, visit greatmountainforest.org. To sign up for the Woodland Academy, visit greatmountainforest.org/woodlandacademy.

Old Man McMullen Pond, Great Mountain Forest, Norfolk, CT photo credit Tom Blagden

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 6,300 acres of contiguous forestland in Norfolk, Canaan, and Falls Village, Connecticut.

Photo credit: Tom Blagden

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Parmalee, Voyage, Jimmy Kenny & More at the 47th Norwalk Oyster Festival

The Norwalk Seaport Association has just released the headliners for the 47th Annual Norwalk Oyster Festival, taking place Friday, September 5 through Sunday, September 7. Headlining this year’s festival is Parmalee, named the most-played group on Country Radio in both 2022 and 2023. With five #1 singles, multiple platinum records, and over a billion on-demand streams, Parmalee is bringing their Carolina swagger and chart-topping hits to the Optimum Main Stage on Saturday night, September 6.

Parmalee brings their southern swagger to Norwalk Oyster Festival Sept. 5-

Comprised of brothers Matt and Scott Thomas, cousin Barry Knox, and lifelong friend Josh McSwain, Parmalee continues to redefine what country music can be—infusing their sound with a variety of influences that set them apart in the genre. When they hit the Optimum Main Stage, expect nothing less than a toe tapping, hit-packed set featuring fan-favorite anthems like “Close Your Eyes,” “Carolina,” “Already Callin’ You Mine,” “Musta Had a Good Time,” “Girl in Mine,” and their latest release, “Cowgirl,” from the April, 2025 album Fell in Love with a Cowgirl. With a commanding stage presence, Parmalee doesn’t just perform. They have fun onstage while connecting with fans. As Matt Thomas says, “We just hope people can sing along, smile and ride the roller coaster of emotions with us.”

Norwalk Oyster Festival, Chairman Mike Reilly says it best: “This year’s entertainment lineup is the best value around. We’re bringing arena-sized bands to the Oyster Festival—all included with admission to the festival of just $15. “It’s a tradition that we’re proud of,” adds Reilly, “and the last big event of the summer at a beautiful seaside venue.”

“Mohegan Sun Online Casino is proud and excited to be the Presenting Sponsor of the Norwalk Oyster Festival 2025! Our partnership with the festival and the Norwalk Seaport Association continues to be an amazing relationship for our business and our presence in the community. This year, we are looking forward to providing attendees with an incredible experience underneath the Mohegan Sun Online Casino VIP Tent that will bring world-class Mohegan Sun hospitality right to Norwalk resident’s backyards,” said Colin Mulhern, Event Manager, Mohegan Sun Online Casino.

It’s 5 ‘clock somewhere with the Jimmy Kenny Band at the Norwalk Oyster Festival

The music doesn’t stop there! Friday night kicks off with Rock Country Nights, delivering a high-energy hit list from country, rock, and southern legends. And at 8:30 p.m., the crowd will be whisked away to paradise with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band, the ultimate tribute band to Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, and the Zac Brown Band.

Capping off the weekend on Sunday at 4 p.m., VOYAGE: Celebrating the Music of Journey will take over the Optimum Main Stage. Known for their spot-on recreations of Journey’s iconic sound, VOYAGE delivers a powerhouse performance of classic hits like “Faithfully,” and “Separate Ways.” With pitch-perfect vocals, blistering guitar solos, and all the stadium rock vibes folks love, VOYAGE will have fans singing along to classics like “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Open Arms.” Their electrifying stage presence and attention to detail make them the world’s premier Journey tribute band.

With Mohegan Sun Online Casino as the Presenting Sponsor and Optimum powering the Main Stage, this year’s Norwalk Oyster Festival is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever—a three-day celebration of music, family entertainment, rides, arts and crafts, food, and unforgettable memories by the sea. *For further information and tickets visit seaport.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates.

Take a journey with VOYAGE

About the Norwalk Oyster Festival

Now in its 47th year, the Norwalk Oyster Festival is the main fundraiser for the Seaport Association and Sheffield Island Lighthouse. This is a three-day festival celebrating the maritime heritage of Norwalk that is held every September. The Norwalk Oyster Festival is known for music, wide variety of entertainment, family fun, delicious food, children’s rides, and the New England Craft Village.

About Mohegan Sun Online Casino

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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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