Stroll, Shop & Savor: Holiday Markets and Festivals Happening This Weekend!
By Cathy Ithier November 26, 2024
🎄❄️Embrace the magic of the season this weekend with festive strolls, boutique shopping, and winter festivals across Connecticut! From holiday markets to cozy crafts, there’s something for everyone. Let the twinkling lights and holiday vibes guide you to these amazing events: Friday, November 29 ✨ Bethel Winterfest | 2 PM–7 PM 🎁 New Milford Holiday Arts & Fine Craft Show | Gallery 25 | 12 PM–6 PM 🎄 Norwalk Rowayton Holiday Gift Show | 12 PM–5 PM 🏠 Ridgefield Holiday Boutique in the Barn | Keeler Tavern Museum | 11 AM–4 PM Saturday, November 30 🎄 Farmington Holiday Boutique | Hill-Stead Museum | 10 AM–4 PM 🌟 Hartford Holiday Market | 12 PM–5 PM 📚 New Fairfield Holiday Boutique | New Fairfield Library | 10 AM–3 PM 🎁 New Milford Holiday Arts & Fine Craft Show | Gallery 25 | 12 PM–6 PM ❄️ North Haven Winterfest | 10 AM–2 PM ✨ Norwalk Rowayton Holiday Gift Show | 12 PM–5 PM 🏡 Historic Rowayton Holiday Bazaar | Pinkney Park | 12 PM–5 PM Sunday, December 1 🚢 Essex Trees in the Rigging Connecticut River Museum 12 PM–6 PM 🎄 Farmington Holiday Boutique | Hill-Stead Museum | 10 AM–4 PM 🎁 New Milford Holiday Arts & Fine Craft Show | Gallery 25 | 12 PM–6 PM ✨ Norwalk Holiday Events Galore: Rowayton Holiday Gift Show | 12 PM–5 PM Historic Rowayton Holiday Bazaar | Pinkney Park | 12 PM–6 PM Holiday Craft Fair at Eagles Club FOE 588 | 10 AM–4 PM | 6 Mott Ave. Plan your weekend, sip hot cocoa, and immerse yourself in holiday joy! 🎅✨
Fairfield County’s Holiday Lineup: Must-See Concerts & Shows
By Cathy Ithier November 25, 2024
The holiday season is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with the magic of live performances! From heartwarming holiday classics to show-stopping concerts, Fairfield County is brimming with entertainment that’s sure to fill you with festive cheer. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends or a family tradition, these shows are the perfect way to make this season unforgettable. Highlights for upcoming Thanksgiving Weekend Friday, November 29 Fairfield: Mountain Laurel with The Moonrise Cartel – StageOne Fairfield: Mullett – The Warehouse Norwalk: Lillie's Laugh Track – Stepping Stones Museum for Children Stamford: World Ballet Company's Nutcracker – The Palace Theatre Saturday, November 30 Milford: Jay Rose - Ho Ho Ho! Holiday Show – Milford Arts Council (MAC) Norwalk: Show Up, Kids! Holiday Edition – Stepping Stones Museum for Children Sherman: Winter Wonderettes – The Sherman Players Sunday, December 1 Bridgeport: The Hits of Frankie Valli & More: Christmas Special – The Bijou Danbury: The Yale Whiffenpoofs – The Palace Theatre Danbury Southbury: Holiday Concert – United Church of Christ Featured Events: 🎄 Family Favorites Enjoy the magic of The Nutcracker, with performances by the World Ballet Company , Connecticut Ballet , and more. Don’t miss White Christmas: The Musical in Norwalk or The Best Christmas Pageant Ever in Newtown 🎤 Concerts & Musicals From Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes in Fairfield to Linda Eder’s Holiday Show in Ridgefield , the stage is set for memorable nights out. Also, celebrate the holidays with The Alternate Routes or a live Christmas special by David Nail a Campfire Christmas Tour at The Warehouse . 🎭 Theatrical Delights Relive classics like A Christmas Carol at various venues or laugh along with a family-friendly puppet shows like Of Cold and Kindness in Norwalk. Take the kids to see master illusionist Lyn Dillies at Edmond Town Hall. 🎶 Community Cheer Gather for local choir performances like the Ridgefield Chorale’s Holiday Pops or Fairfield County Children's Choir’s Winter Concert f or a truly festive experience. Save the Dates! December 3: Swan Lake - The Palace Theater, Stamford December 5: Candace Bushnell - True Tales of Sex and the City – The Warehouse, Fairfield December 5: The Yale Whiffenpoofs - Edmond Town Hall December 6: Foxwoods' Christmas Vacation Screening and Q&A with Chevy Chase – Foxwoods Resort Casino December 7: The Hip Hop Nutcracker – The Palace Theatre, Stamford December 20-23: Disney on Ice: Frozen & Encanto – Total Mortgage Arena, Bridgeport December 28: Master Illusionist LYN DILLIES - Edmond Town Hall, Newtown Make your plans early as many of these shows are sure to sell out! Explore more performances and purchase tickets through the links provided. Let’s make this holiday season shine with music, laughter, and joy. Check out our Holiday Events Calendars for additional Holiday Shows, Musicals and much more here!
Breakfast with Santa in and around Fairfield County
By Cathy Ithier November 25, 2024
Find Your Breakfast with Santa! 🎅🥞 It’s the most wonderful time of the year! We’ve rounded up the best Breakfast with Santa events in and around Fairfield County, so you can enjoy festive fun and delicious meals with the Big Guy himself. 🎄 From pancake stacks to Christmas cheer, these breakfasts are sure to keep you coming back for more. Check out our updated list below and plan your Santa breakfast adventure this December! Breakfast with Santa Events 🎄 Sunday, December 1 Wilton: Cannon Grange @ 9:00 AM – Book Now Stratford: Our Lady of Grace Church @ 9:30 AM – Book Now Saturday, December 7 Danbury: Miry Brook Fire Dept @ 8:00 AM – Book Now Derby: Sons & Daughters of Italy @ 9:30 PM – Book Now Foxwoods: Foxwoods Resort @ 8:30 AM – Book Now New Fairfield: New Fairfield MS @8:00AM - Book Now Ridgefield: Boys & Girls Club @8:00AM - Book Now Southbury: SVFA Firehouse @7:30AM - Book Now Saturday, December 14 Brookfield: Prince of Peace Lutheran Church @ 8:00 AM – Book Now Fairfield: Fairfield Ludlowe High School @ 10:00 AM – Book Now Foxwoods: Foxwoods Resort @ 8:30 AM – Book Now Newtown: Newtown MS @9:00AM - Book Now New Canaan: NC Parks & Rec @8:00AM - Book Now Trumbull: Nichols United Women in Faith @ 10:00 AM – Book Now Wilton: Riverbrook Regional YMCA @ 9:00 AM – Book Now Sunday, December 15 Danbury: Catholic War Veterans Post 1042 @ 9:00 AM – Book Now Greenwich: Delamar Greenwich Harbor @ 11:00 AM – Book Now Newtown: Dodgingtown Volunteer Fire Company @ 9:00 AM – Book Now Norwalk: The Maritime Aquarium @ 8:00 AM – Book Now Stamford: Italian Center @9AM - Book Now Saturday, December 21 Foxwoods: Foxwoods Resort @ 8:30 AM – Book Now Sunday, December 22 Greenwich: Delamar Greenwich Harbor @ 11:00 AM – Book Now
Christine Lavin to Perform at The Flagpole Radio Café on Dec 7th.
By Barbara Gaines November 24, 2024
Newtown, CT – Acclaimed singer-songwriter and storyteller Christine Lavin will make a special appearance at The Flagpole Radio Café at 7:00 PM on Saturday, December 7th at the Edmond Town Hall Theater in Newtown, CT. Lavin, known for her wit, warmth, and mastery of folk music, will perform an unforgettable evening of her signature songs and stories that have resonated with audiences for over four decades. As a seasoned performer who has won legions of fans worldwide, Lavin has built a reputation for combining humor, heart, and musical talent in every performance. Whether it's a touching ballad or a hilarious anecdote, Christine has the unique ability to make audiences feel like they are sharing an intimate moment with an old friend. The Flagpole Radio Café, a popular live variety show that blends music, comedy, and local talent, is thrilled to welcome Lavin to its stage. The show, now in its 13th season, brings together regional artists and national performers for a night of entertainment in the heart of Newtown. The Flagpole Radio Café’s live performances are a beloved tradition, and Lavin’s appearance promises to be a highlight of the season. Christine Lavin is a veteran of the folk scene with a career spanning more than 40 years, and she has released over 20 albums. From her early days performing in Greenwich Village to her nationwide tours, Lavin’s ability to connect with her audience is unparalleled. With her trademark blend of humor, empathy, and insight, she is sure to bring something special to this intimate setting. 
Christmas Tree Farms in and around Fairfield County.
By Cathy Ithier November 23, 2024
What better way to get into the holiday spirit than by visiting one of Connecticut's charming Christmas tree farms! Cutting down your own tree is a timeless family tradition that creates unforgettable memories. Whether you’re looking to stroll through fields to cut your own tree or prefer the convenience of a freshly pre-cut one, we’ve compiled a list of local farms where you can find the perfect tree for your home. Bethel: Bob's Tree Farm 66-68 Turkey Plain Road, Rt. 53 - Phone: 203-241-3450 Bethel: High View Tree Farm - 95 Turkey Plain Road - Phone: 203 313-9556 Bethel: Hollandia - 103 Old Hawleyville Road, Bethel Bethlehem: March Farms - 160 Munger Lane Brookfield: Caesar's Nursery & Christmas Tree Farm - 883 Federal Rd., Rt. 7, Phone: 203-775-2944 Brookfield: Waidelich's Tree Farm - 35 Silvermine Rd - Phone: 203-775-9198 Easton: Everett's Corner Tree Farm - 136 Sherwood Road Easton: Ganim Tree Farm - 130 Center Road Phone: 203-459-9581 Easton: Keneally Farm - 290 Silver Hill Road – Phone 203-241-7066 Easton: Maple Row Tree Farm - 538 North Park Avenue Easton: Sabia Tree Farm - 772 Morehouse Road Easton: Silverman's Farm - 451 Sport Hill Road Greenwich: Sam Bridge Nursery - 437 North Street New Milford: Windswept Tree Farm - 12 Evergreen Lane Newtown: Paproski’s Tree Farm 5 Hattertown Road Newtown: Sam's Tree Farm - 138 Huntingtown Road Norwalk: Reynolds Farms - 23 Richards Avenue Shelton: Fairview Tree Farm 2 Sawmill City Road Shelton: Jones Family Farms 606 Walnut Hill Tree Road Shelton: Wells Hollow Farm - 2 Beard Sawmill Road Stamford: Eden Farms - 947 Stillwater Road Trumbull: Plasko's Farm - 670 Daniels Farm Road Westport: CT Audubon Society Tree Farm - 16 Sasco Creek Road Westport: Izzo & Son Country Gardens - 1431 Post Road East Wilton: Ambler Farm - 257 Hurlbutt Street Woodbury: Busy Acres Tree Farm , 548 Quassapaug Road Woodbury: Lewis Christmas Tree Farm - 13 Old Town Farm Road
By Cathy Ithier November 23, 2024
🎄 Guide to Tree Lighting Ceremonies in and around Fairfield County. 'Tis the season! Towns throughout Fairfield County and nearby areas are gearing up for their annual tree lightings and holiday festivities. We've gathered a list of the top celebrations happening in the area to help you and your family make magical memories. Friday, November 29 Bethel: Bethel Winterfest 🗓️ Fri | Nov 29 | 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM 🎠 Enjoy holiday shopping, food trucks, and the lighting of Bethel’s Christmas tree. Ridgefield: Annual Tree Festival of Lights 🗓️ Fri | Nov 29 | 6:00 PM 🎵 Kick off the holidays with festive songs and tree lighting. Saturday, November 30 Bridgeport: Annual Tree Lighting 🗓️ Sat | Nov 30 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM 🎤 Features live music, family activities, and the lighting of the tree. Brookfield: Holiday Tree Lighting 🗓️ Sat | Nov 30 | 5:00 PM 🎅 A classic tree lighting with carolers and holiday treats. New Fairfield: Holiday Light Parade & Tree Lighting 🗓️ Sat | Nov 30 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM 🚒 Festive light parade leads to a dazzling tree lighting ceremony. New Milford Tree Lighting with Santa 🗓️ Sat | Nov 30 |5:30 PM 🎅 A classic tree lighting with carolers and holiday treats. Sunday, December 1 Darien: Holiday Lighting 🗓️ Sun | Dec 1 | 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM 🎵 Kick off the holidays with festive songs and tree lighting. Westport: Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony 🗓️ Sun | Dec 1 | Evening (Time TBD) 🎁 Features performances and holiday-themed surprises for the whole family. Wednesday, December 4 Stratford: Town of Stratford Tree Lighting 🗓️ Wed Dec 4 5:30 PM 🌟 Santa joins the fun as Stratford’s tree comes alive with light. Thursday, December 5 Weston: Holiday Tree Lighting and Music Festival 🗓️ Thurs | Dec 5 | 5:00 PM 🎻 Live music, festive vibes, and Weston’s beautiful tree lighting. Friday, December 6, 2024 Trumbull: Town of Trumbull Tree Lighting 🗓️ Fri | Dec 6 | 6:00 PM 🎄 Holiday crafts, entertainment, and a cheerful lighting ceremony. Ansonia: The Lighting of the Ansonia Christmas Tree 🗓️ Fri | Dec 6 | 6:30 PM 🌟 Local performers set the stage for this dazzling event. Bethlehem: Bethlehem Christmas Tree Lighting & CristmasTown Festival 🗓️ Fri & Sat | Dec 6 & 7 🏰 Stroll through Christmas Town and enjoy festivities over two magical days. Greenwich: Annual Tree Lighting 🗓️ Fri | Dec 6 | 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM 🎷 Caroling and the glow of the town’s festive tree lighting. Oxford: Tree Lighting 🗓️ Fri | Dec 6 | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM 🎅 Santa stops by Oxford’s annual festive gathering. Norwalk: Tree Lighting Celebration 🗓️ Fri | Dec 6 | 5:30 PM 🌟 A community celebration with seasonal treats and entertainment. Shelton: Community Tree Lighting & Winter Market 🗓️ Fri | Dec 6 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM 🎭 Family fun, music, and an enchanting lighting display. Wilton: Holiday Stroll & Tree Lighting 🗓️ Fri | Dec 6 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM 🎨 Holiday crafts & Toy Drive, performances, lighting of the town tree & santa. Saturday, December 7, 2024 Danbury: Light the Lights - Winter Festival 🗓️ Sat | Dec 7 | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM 🎨 Holiday crafts, performances, and the lighting of the town tree. Fairfield: Tree Lighting & Menorah Lighting | Winter Whimsy 🗓️ Sat | Dec 7 | 4:15 PM – 7:00 PM 🕎 Celebrate with lights, music, and a cozy winter marketplace. Old Greenwich: First Light Celebration in Old Greenwich 🗓️ Sat | Dec 7 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM 🕯️ Lantern strolls, live music, and a beautiful tree lighting. Orange: Holiday Tree Lighting and Holiday Festival 🗓️ Sat | Dec 7 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM 🎠 A holiday festival with crafts, food, and tree lighting magic. Middlebury: Annual Tree Lighting , Santa's Mailbox and more! 🗓️ Sat | Dec 7 | 4:00 PM 🎶 Gather for carols and cheer as the tree lights up. Monroe: Tree Lighting Event 🗓️ Sat | Dec 7 | 5:00 PM 🎅 A visit from Santa completes Monroe’s festive tree lighting. Redding: Tree Lighting Celebration 🗓️ Sat | Dec 7 | 3:30 PM 🌟 Warm up with cocoa and enjoy the glow of the holiday tree. Sandy Hook: Sandy Hook Village Tree Lighting 🗓️ Sat | Dec 7 | 4:00 PM 🎁 Holiday cheer and festivities culminate in a magical tree lighting. Sunday, December 8 Easton: Holiday Market & Tree Lighting 🗓️ Sun | Dec 8 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM 🎁 Shop the holiday market before enjoying the tree lighting. Milford: Walnut Beach Tree Lighting 🗓️ Sun | Dec 8 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM 🌟 Coastal charm meets holiday cheer with this beautiful event. Newtown: Hawleyville Tree Lighting 🗓️ Sun | Dec 8 | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM 🎶 A quaint celebration filled with music and tree lighting joy. Sherman: Annual Tree Lighting with Santa 🗓️ Sun | Dec 8 | 5:30 PM 🎅 Kids can meet Santa after the tree lighting ceremony. Stamford: Heights and Lights 🗓️ Sun | Dec 8 | 5:00 PM 🧗 Santa rappels down a skyscraper before lighting the tree! Friday, December 13 Newtown: Annual Tree Lighting at Ram Pasture 🗓️ Fri | Dec 13 | 6:30 PM 🎄 Stroll through historic Ram Pasture for a charming lighting event. Sunday, December 15 Milford: Buoy Tree Lighting Ceremony 🗓️ Sun | Dec 15 | 4:45 PM 🌊 Celebrate Milford’s nautical history with this unique tree lighting.
By City Center Danbury November 21, 2024
Downtown Danbury Shines Bright for the Annual Light the Lights Winter Festival on Saturday, December 7th Get ready to embrace the joy and wonder of the season as the Annual Light the Lights Winter Festival returns to downtown Danbury on Saturday, December 7th, from 3 pm to 7 pm at the CityCenter Green (1 Ives Street). This year’s festival will transform the heart of the city into a sparkling winter wonderland, with thousands of twinkling lights in greens, reds, blues, and whites, celebrating holiday traditions from around the globe and filling the air with festive cheer. Join Mayor Roberto Alves as he kicks off the evening’s festivities with the ceremonial lighting of the majestic 40-foot holiday tree, a highlight that promises to ignite the holiday spirit for all! The tree lighting will be followed by the much-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus, making a grand entrance aboard a firetruck as part of an exciting live parade—guaranteed to thrill both the young and young-at-heart. Throughout the evening, enjoy live performances featuring favorite holiday songs, traditional dances, and heartwarming entertainment that’s perfect for all ages. Stroll through our holiday market, where local vendors will offer unique gifts, delicious treats, and seasonal goodies, making it easy to find the perfect holiday surprises for friends and family. This year’s festival is made possible by the sponsorship of Union Savings Bank, as well as the support of The Salvation Army, who will serve cozy hot food and beverages.  Bring your family, friends, and holiday spirit as we light up downtown Danbury and celebrate this magical season together!
The Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail
November 21, 2024
Connecticut Unveils the Nation’s First Christmas Movie Trail, Giving Holiday Fans a Chance to Experience the Magic Beyond the Screen (HARTFORD, CT) – In a celebration of cinema and the holiday season, Connecticut proudly unveiled the nation’s first-ever Christmas Movie Trail . This unique journey lets movie lovers experience the quaint towns, bustling cities, and festive settings that have captivated millions of viewers through these beloved Christmas classics. From Hallmark to Netflix to Lifetime, a curated map featuring 22 filming locations, invites visitors to step into the cozy inns, intimate cafes, charming shops, and iconic attractions where their favorite holiday stories were brought to life. The unveiling event, held at the historic Silas W. Robbins House in Wethersfield – a setting in Hallmark’s Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane – featured actors Wes Brown, Erin Cahill, Michael Rady, and Producer Andrew Gernhard, who together revealed the map to an enthusiastic audience. This trail captures the charm of Connecticut’s communities and hidden gems that have become the backdrop for some of the most timeless holiday movies. “As the first of its kind, the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail is more than a nod to the films themselves – it’s an invitation to experience Connecticut in a way that’s both familiar and new,” Governor Ned Lamont said . “We’re proud that our towns and cities have inspired so many holiday favorites, and we look forward to welcoming fans to see these idyllic communities firsthand.” “Holiday films bring us comfort, nostalgia, and a bit of magic,” Andrew Gernhard, a producer of numerous holiday classics and a Connecticut native who continues to call the state home, said . “Having grown up here, I know firsthand the character and warmth that make Connecticut an ideal setting to bring these films to life. We’ve had the joy of filming so many holiday scenes here, and I think fans are going to love experiencing Connecticut through this lens.” A New Way to Experience Connecticut Connecticut’s Christmas Movie Trail invites visitors to explore a side of the state that typically shines on screen: snow-dusted main streets adorned with lights, historic inns decked for the holidays, and vibrant town squares. The trail taps into the growing travel trend of “set-jetting,” where fans travel to real-life locations featured in their favorite movies and TV shows to relive memorable scenes and connect with the stories they love. “The Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail showcases the state’s unique role as a holiday destination, not just for movie sets but for real-life memories,” Ellen Woolf Rubrich, Connecticut’s state brand director, said . “Our communities – brought to life with the spirit, beauty, and joy audiences experience on screen. Now, with the growing trend of set-jetting, visitors can step into these holiday scenes themselves and experience every aspect of what make these movies so magical.” Highlights of the Trail The Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail is a curated guide, connecting travelers with the accommodations, dining spots, and attractions that play a role in 22 films from Hallmark, Lifetime, Netflix, BET, and Universal Studios. Highlights include: Historic inns and cozy accommodations : Experience the warmth and holiday decor of inns that have served as both real and fictional backdrops, perfect for a seasonal getaway. Iconic holiday scenes : From bustling main streets to picturesque town greens, each stop on the trail has been thoughtfully selected for its role in holiday movies, providing a full immersion into Connecticut’s holiday spirit. Local dining and unique attractions : Fans can enjoy locally-owned restaurants and charming cafes that feature in the films, and unique attractions that offer a complete holiday movie experience. Featured films include: Trivia at St. Nick’s Where Are You, Christmas? Mystic Christmas Ghosts of Christmas Always Sugar Plum Twist A Holiday in Harlem Next Stop, Christmas One Royal Holiday Holiday for Heroes Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane Christmas at Pemberly Manor Romance at Reindeer Lodge Wally Lamb’s Wishin’ & Hopin’ The 12 Days of Christmas Eve The Holiday Fix Up The Noel Diary Soul Santa My Adventures with Santa A Very Nutty Christmas A Very Merry Toy Store Broadcasting Christmas The Santa Con A Celebration of Tradition, Innovation, and Economic Impact Holiday films have brought substantial economic benefits to Connecticut, with productions contributing more than $58 million to the state’s economy and creating more than 2,000 jobs . From $1.5 million spent on hotel rooms to $485,000 on vehicle rentals and $711,000 on meals and catering, holiday movie productions support a thriving local economy. “Holiday movie productions have been a tremendous boost for Connecticut, supporting local businesses and creating jobs statewide,” George Norfleet, executive director of the Connecticut Office of Film, TV, and Digital Media, said . “The Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail reflects how the state’s scenic landscapes and vibrant communities continue to attract filmmakers, while also drawing visitors who want to experience the holiday magic for themselves.” “This trail is an innovative approach to travel that connects Connecticut’s picturesque towns and vibrant cities with the magic of holiday cinema,” Anthony Anthony, Connecticut’s chief marketing officer, said . “We’re giving visitors an immersive experience that brings their favorite holiday films to life. This trail isn’t just about celebrating the movies themselves – it’s about celebrating Connecticut’s unique ability to blend tradition with fresh, creative travel experiences that drive economic growth and showcase the best of what our state has to offer.” As part of the festivities, 12 lucky Connecticut residents were chosen to attend the event and meet their favorite holiday film stars in person. Adding an extra layer of holiday magic, Hallmark actress Erin Cahill surprised one of the winners by drawing their name for a special opportunity – to be an extra in an upcoming Hallmark movie being filmed right here in Connecticut. “It’s moments like these that make the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail not just a celebration of these adored films – it’s a tribute to our state pride,” Anthony adds . “The trail beautifully captures Connecticut’s ‘Live, Work, Play’ spirit, bringing visitors to places we call home and highlighting the vibrant communities that make the state such an exceptional place to live, work, and enjoy. We’re thrilled to share this unique experience with the fans, inviting them to embrace the magic of the holidays in Connecticut. The Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail is more than just a tour – it’s an invitation to experience the heart and soul of our state during the most wonderful time of the year.” The event’s festive atmosphere was further elevated by a holiday-inspired menu created by the award-winning team at The Charles. Guests were treated to a culinary experience that celebrated the flavors of the season, featuring standout dishes like a pistachio-crusted lamb crown roast complemented by a minted cranberry sauce, and a bacon-wrapped pork loin roast with a rich, mulled wine cranberry glaze. Sweet treats included whimsical Christmas morning chocolate pretzel rods, dipped Oreos, and holiday macaroons, adding a touch of festive indulgence. The beverage offerings provided a nod to holiday traditions, with specialty cocktails such as “Santa’s Salerno Spiced Eggnog Shooters” and “Cranberry-Rosemary Holiday Mimosas,” alongside warming cups of mulled wine for added cheer. Heirloom Market’s delightful eggnog cupcakes, a memorable feature from Hallmark’s Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane , added a special touch that connected the culinary experience back to the holiday film magic celebrated by the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail. Adding to the festive spirit, the Connecticut Yuletide Carolers greeted guests with classic Christmas carols upon arrival, and their harmonious renditions continued in the music room of the Silas W. Robbins House. Dressed in traditional Victorian attire, the carolers set a nostalgic tone, inviting attendees to step back in time and immerse themselves in the magic of the season. Whether it’s sipping hot cocoa in a cafe featured in a Hallmark classic or strolling through a town square that hosted a Lifetime romance, the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail offers a magical holiday escape right in the heart of Connecticut. For more information, including access to the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail map, visit www.CTvisit.com.
By Cathy Ithier November 20, 2024
The 2024 Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular, one of the largest parades of its kind in the country with 15 giant helium balloons and more than 100,000 spectators annually, will take place this Sunday, November 24. The 31st annual event is scheduled to begin at noon at the intersection of Summer and Hoyt Streets, will proceed down Summer to Broad to Atlantic and will conclude on Atlantic Street south of Federal Street.  After the Parade why not check out the Glow Wild Lantern Festival at Connecticut’s Beardsleys Zoo! The festival is wrapping up December 15, so this is on the top of my bucket list! Grab your tickets here.
By Cathy Ithier November 19, 2024
Date: Saturday, November 23, 2024 Time: 9:30 PM Place: BRYAC BLACK ROCK, 3074 Fairfield Avenue, Bridgeport, CT ACE & Friends, Fairfield County’s premier Grateful Dead tribute band, will perform on Saturday, November 23 at BRYAC BLACK ROCK. The performance starts at 9:30. Admission is free. Experience the timeless tunes of the Grateful Dead with this talented tribute band, paying homage to the legendary music that has captivated generations. Watch these videos to see the band in action at a recent ACE & Friends performance: 
Show More
Share by: