This year marks a milestone 10th anniversary of the Weekend in Norfolk (WIN) celebration, and the town is pulling out all the stops! From Friday, August 1, through Sunday, August 3, the whole town is coming alive with a vibrant mix of activities, entertainment, and community spirit. Whether you’re a longtime local or first-time visitor, this is your chance to dive into everything that makes Norfolk special.
One of the biggest highlights is the brand-new Sidewalk Sunday, taking place from 12 noon to 5 pm at Robertson Plaza. The plaza will be bustling with energy as a diverse mix of local organizations, artists, and authors showcase their creations and share their passions. With the street closed to traffic, it’s a safe and welcoming space for families to enjoy live music, delicious bites from local favorites like the Berkshire Country Store and Norfolk Pub, and the vibrant community spirit that makes this WIN so special.
Music lovers are in for a treat, as free performances abound all weekend long. From Friday night’s concert on the Green featuring Pat Attanasio to multiple Saturday showcases including the Emerging Artists at the Music Shed and popular local acts like the Grantville Dawgs and the Carol & Nick Jazz Duo, there’s something for every musical taste. Sunday rounds out the musical offerings with performances by Elias Neuman-Donihue, Julia Autumn Ford, and Mike Cobb at Robertson Plaza, plus a free children’s concert at the Music Shed.
Discover the beauty and wonder of nature with WIN’s unforgettable outdoor experiences. Join a guided birding walk through the scenic Barbour Woods, or dive into 90 years of climate history at Great Mountain Forest’s historic weather station, where science meets storytelling. Whether you’re a curious explorer or a nature enthusiast, you’ll uncover how past weather data is shaping modern forecasting. Prefer to take things at your own pace? Stroll through Connecticut’s most charming Historic District on a self-guided walking tour, where centuries-old architecture whispers stories of the past. Or, if you’re craving adventure, explore Norfolk’s many trails and experience the raw, rugged beauty of the local landscape. Whatever your style, there’s a path waiting for you.
Families with children will find plenty to engage young minds and bodies, from a West African music and dance workshop with award-winning artist Iddi Saaka at the Norfolk Library, to Sunday morning yoga and meditation on the Village Green. And don’t miss the hands-on art and water play at Bottelle School, where kids can craft their masks and cool off under a fire truck’s refreshing spray!
Step back in time at the Norfolk Historical Society’s new exhibit, “A New Birth of Freedom: Norfolk in the Civil War.” This captivating display delves into the town’s role leading up to and during the Civil War, highlighting the brave individuals who fought to preserve the Union. On Saturday, August 2, history buffs can further enrich their experience with a guided tour of Center Cemetery, led by Barry Webber, the Society’s executive director.
For fishing enthusiasts, join expert fisherman Doug McDevitt, who is offering fly fishing seminars perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. With personalized instruction limited to five participants per session on Saturday and Sunday, you’ll receive hands-on guidance in the art of Spey casting, courtesy of equipment provided by Orvis of Avon. Nature lovers can also enjoy a peaceful Sunday stroll, August 3, through two private gardens linked by beautifully designed pathways and lush shade plantings—a serene escape for any garden enthusiast.
Meanwhile, cultural explorers will want to stop by the Connecticut Asia Cultural Center on Saturday, August 2, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for its annual festival. Visitors will be treated to immersive exhibits on Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian, Christian, and Inca cultures, along with vibrant performances like the Tai Chi Fan Dance. Enjoy a complimentary Asian lunch box, participate in a Dragon Boat Racers competition, and attend engaging seminars and a traditional tea ceremony.
This beloved event invites visitors to experience a rich tapestry of timeless activities, from heartfelt wedding vow renewals on the Green to captivating tours of Tiffany’s stained glass windows and the historic WhiteHouse. And of course, no community celebration is complete without cherished local traditions. Indulge in nostalgic delights like the blueberry Betty and ice cream social at Meadow Brook apartments on Saturday, or share in the joy of the children’s concert and ice cream social at the iconic Music Shed on the Battell estate on Sunday. Whether you’re reliving cherished memories or creating new ones, Summer WIN offers something special for everyone — a true celebration of connection, heritage, and joy.
With most events free and spread conveniently around town, you can explore at your own pace and find something for every interest and age group. Don’t miss this unforgettable summer celebration—check out the full schedule at weekendinnorfolk.org
ABOUT THE WIN (WEEKEND IN NORFOLK) COMMITTEE
Now in its tenth year, the all-volunteer WIN Committee organizes two town-wide events annually: the Summer WIN and the Winter WIN. Norfolk’s town officials, the Economic Development Commission, and many local organizations, institutions, and individuals support these two town-wide festivals to welcome people from near and far to this lovely town in the Litchfield Hills. Information about both festivals is available online at weekendinnorfolk.org.
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