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Restaurant Spotlight - Spiga Wine Bar in New Canaan, CT

Restaurant Spotlight

by Linda Kavanagh

Spiga Wine Bar New Canaan

Visit a restaurant where people come together over great food and wine.

Spiga Wine Bar & Salumeria is where people come together over great food and wine. Located in the picturesque town of New Canaan, Spiga’s modern trattoria-style restaurant and bar is well-known for its handmade pastas, brick oven pizzas, and an array of dishes inspired by classic Italian ingredients and preparations. The extensive menu holds something for everyone. From innovative small plates and antipasti boards featuring a selection of salumi and cheeses to entrees made with free-range poultry, sustainable seafood, and all-natural meats. A large selection of vibrant salads is prepared with local organic greens and seasonal produce.

 

Like many Italians, Spiga believes that the best times are had over a glass of wine or an aperitivo, which is why their vast custom zinc bar is the centerpiece of the restaurant. Spiga offers an extensive wine by the glass selection as well as a comprehensive reserve bottle list, with varietals from Italy and beyond. The craft cocktail menu offers classic drinks with a contemporary spin.

 

Spiga Wine Bar & Salumeria

136 Main Street

New Canaan, CT 06840

Ph. (203) 920-1351

www.eatatspiga.com


1st Annual Litchfield Hills Creative Festival

by Michele Blanco

Litchfield Hills Creative Festival

This week FAD spoke with Maddie Stenson, Program Director of the NWCT Arts Council, about the upcoming first annual Litchfield Hills Creative Festival on Saturday, August 14th, in Downtown Torrington. The festival will include artist vendors at Franklin Plaza, live music at Coe Memorial Park, open artist studios, and many other public activities for all ages hosted by participating organizations and venues. A variety of local artists and artisans will hold booths at Franklin Plaza with art for sale from 11 am to 4 pm.


Live music at the Main Stage in Coe Memorial Park is sponsored by Red Room Sound Studio and the Warner Theatre. The setlist will begin with performances by Mike Cobb, the Write Offs, and the Red Hots, and end with a headlining performance by Corey Glover of Living Color and Friends. The Warner Theatre will hold two early afternoon performances of The Stinky Cheese Man for children and families.


Among live music and local art, there will also be live buskers at various locations downtown organized by Rock Yer Block, and a downtown open artist studio walking tour. Other participating organizations include the Torrington Library, Kids Play Children's Museum, Five Points Center for the

Visual Arts, Water Street Potters, Nutmeg Ballet Conservatory, and Mental Health CT Mending Arts.


"We are thrilled to bring an event like this to the area, and so grateful for the support from our collaborating organizations and sponsors," says Maddie Stenson, Program Director of the Arts Council, "When we all come together as a community, we can create a unique and special experience for everyone. We hope that this event will grow organically over time and draw interest from those who don't already know about all the creativity in Litchfield County."


For full details about the Litchfield Hills Creative Festival, visit www.artsnwct.org/litchfield-hills-creative-festival

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The mission of the Northwest Connecticut Arts Council is to engage the public in building a strong and connected arts and culture community that is integral to the economic development and the collective well-being of the region. The Arts Council board and staff believe that access to arts and culture is a universal human right, meeting both a social and psychological need. The Council supports a vibrant, vital, and necessary component of the local community through promotion and advocacy.


The Northwest Connecticut Arts Council is supported in part by the DECD/Connecticut Office of the Arts, the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area, Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation and the Connecticut Community Foundation.


The Litchfield Hills Creative Festival is sponsored by Torrington Savings Bank, The Matthews Group, Republican-American, WSHU Radio Station, and the Torrington Downtown Partners. Headlining performance sponsored by Flying Key Entertainment, LLC / Red Room sound Studio, Cook

Funeral Homes, AKC Fund, and the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation Building Healthier Communities Fund. Sound provided by Orange truck Audio and sponsored by Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, Eyes on Litchfield -Tommasina Pasqua Sideris, Litchfield Dental Associates - Dr. Steven

Sideris, McCall Center for Behavioral Health and Help Inc., Flying Key Entertainment, LLC, and Red Room Sound Studio.

Restaurant Spotlight - Spiga Wine Bar in New Canaan, CT
Grateful Shred Brings Their Legendary Dead Vibe to The Warehouse at FTC — May 1
By Cathy Ithier April 27, 2025
Grateful Shred at The Warehouse at FTC — Thursday, May 1 Grab your tickets while you can! After a meteoric rise from obscurity to a national touring act, Los Angeles-based Grateful Shred has made the most of their moment in the spotlight. Featuring Dan Horne, Austin McCutchen, and keyboardist Adam MacDougall, this laid-back, harmony-driven band has awakened the Grateful Dead cosmos with their unique sound. From busking at Shakedown Street vendor areas before Dead & Company shows to headlining national tours, their journey has been nothing short of magical. The moment that catapulted the band into wider recognition was the now-legendary "Busted at the Bowl" video: an impromptu parking lot jam before a Dead & Company concert at the Hollywood Bowl in 2017. They barely got a few songs in before drawing such a large crowd that the police had to shut them down — instantly earning "Shred-cred." McCutchen reflects, “We’ve been dealt some pretty good cards. It’s been cool to roll with it, push forward, and continually make stuff happen. Even that video happened magically. It was put together at the last minute — and boom!” What sets Grateful Shred apart is their uncanny ability to channel that elusive Grateful Dead vibe — wide-open guitar tones, effortless three-part harmonies, choogling beats, and plenty of blissed-out, Shredded solos. The look, the sound, the atmosphere — it's all there. But far from being just a historical re-enactment, Grateful Shred’s easygoing style brings a real spirit, warmth, and authenticity to their shows. From their killer merch game to their eminently watchable YouTube channel, Grateful Shred is clearly having the time of their lives — and spreading the love. In a world saturated with nostalgia and Deadly sentimentalism, the Shred feels more necessary than ever. 🎟️ Get your tickets now for May 1 at The Warehouse at FTC — this is one show you don’t want to miss!
Feel the Fever with STAYIN' ALIVE – One Night Only at The Palace Theatre on Friday,  May 2.
By Cathy Ithier April 26, 2025
Get ready to dance, sing, and relive the magic of the Bee Gees with STAYIN' ALIVE , the world's premier Bee Gees tribute band, for one night only at The Palace Theatre on Friday, May 2. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering their music for the first time, this show promises a dazzling celebration of the legendary trio. From the disco-era blockbusters like “Night Fever,” “Jive Talkin’,” and “You Should Be Dancing,” to soul stirring ballads like “How Deep Is Your Love,” “Words,” and “To Love Somebody,” STAYIN' ALIVE delivers an electrifying performance of the Bee Gees’ most beloved hits. With immersive big-screen video, stunning visuals, and impeccable harmonies, this tribute doesn’t just perform the music – it brings the entire Bee Gees experience to life. Whether it’s an intimate six-piece band or a massive 62-piece orchestra, STAYIN’ ALIVE captures the heart and soul of one of music’s most legendary groups. Don’t miss this one-night-only event – get your tickets now and prepare to boogie the night away at The Palace Theatre on May 2!
Get Ready to Twist and Shout: A Family Beatles Concert at The Palace Theatre in Stamford on Saturday
By Cathy Ithier April 26, 2025
Looking for a fun, music-filled family outing that both kids and parents will love? On Saturday, May 3 , The Palace Theatre Stamford transforms into a rock & roll wonderland with The Rock and Roll Playhouse —a concert experience tailor-made for children (and their grown-ups) featuring the timeless music of The Beatles. Presented as part of a beloved national family concert series, The Rock and Roll Playhouse is designed to get kids up on their feet, singing, dancing, and exploring the magic of live music. Expect engaging storytelling, games, and movement activities—all set to the legendary sounds of one of the most iconic bands in history. Perfect for kids age ten and under , this is often a child's very first taste of a live music show. Whether you're a lifelong Beatles fan or introducing your little one to the Fab Four for the first time, this is a show that’ll bring joy to the whole family. Note: This show is not associated with or endorsed by The Beatles. All children must be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver. 🎟️ Get your tickets now and let your family’s rock & roll journey begin!
Comedy Central Star Michael Kosta Live in Newtown for One Night Only
By Cathy Ithier April 26, 2025
Get ready, Newtown! Emmy-winning comedian Michael Kosta is hitting the stage at Edmond Town Hall on Friday, May 16 at 8 PM for a night of sharp wit, hilarious stories, and pure comedic gold. 📍 Location : Edmond Town Hall, 45 Main Street, Newtown, CT ⏰ Time : 8:00 PM 🎟️ Tickets : bit.ly/3FO6K1n Michael Kosta is best known as a co-Host and Senior Correspondent on The Daily Show on Comedy Central. With his unique blend of intelligence and biting humor, he brings the laughs wherever he goes—whether it's the anchor desk or the stand-up stage. You may have caught his quick wit on The Tonight Show , Conan , Late Night with Seth Meyers , or the cult-favorite @midnight . His one-hour stand-up special Michael Kosta: Detroit. NY. LA. is streaming now on Paramount+ and YouTube , showcasing his coast-to-coast comedic chops. But comedy isn't Kosta’s only claim to fame. Before dominating late-night TV, he played professional tennis, once ranking #864 in the world. Now, he hosts the “Tennis Anyone” podcast , blending humor with the highs and lows of sports and life. And in March 2025 , he adds “author” to his resume with the release of his debut memoir, “Lucky Loser,” published by HarperCollins. Whether you're a fan of The Daily Show , a comedy lover, or just need a night of good laughs, don’t miss your chance to see Michael Kosta LIVE . It’s going to be one unforgettable night at Edmond Town Hall!
Get Ready to Rock with Blippi Thursday, May 1 at the Palace Theatre Stamford.
By Cathy Ithier April 24, 2025
Calling all mini music makers! Blippi is back and bringing the beat to The Palace Theatre in Stamford on Thursday, May 1 with the brand-new Blippi: Join the Band Tour! This high-energy, interactive musical performance is perfect for the whole family. Join Blippi, Meekah, and their grooving gang of singing, dancing buddies and LIVE musicians as they explore the fun side of music through sounds, rhythms, and instruments — all set to your favorite Blippi hits. Whether your little one dreams of drumming or wants to wiggle to the rhythm, this show is sure to have them clapping, stomping, and singing along. But wait — there’s more! Families can upgrade their experience with an exclusive Photo Experience where you'll meet Blippi on stage and snap an unforgettable picture 📸. This special package includes: A souvenir tour lanyard with a Join the Band pass A special keepsake to take home Personalized photo time with Blippi! 👉 Important Tips for Families: All attendees (ages 2+) need BOTH a show ticket and a Photo Experience ticket. The Photo Experience happens after the show — pick up your pass at Will Call. Bring your camera for the big moment! Some kids might feel shy — and that’s okay! Waiting at the back of the line can help ease nerves. 🎟 ️ Tickets are selling fast — don’t miss your chance to dance, sing, and rock out with Blippi! Let’s make music, Stamford-style!
Sing Your Heart Out at the Wicked Sing-Along – Sunday, April 27 at The Palace Theatre!
By Cathy Ithier April 20, 2025
Date: Sunday, April 27, 2025 Time: 2:00 pm Location: The Palace Theatre, Stamford, CT Calling all fans of Oz, Elphaba, Glinda, and unforgettable show tunes! Get ready for an enchanting experience like no other as The Palace Theatre Stamford presents the Wicked Sing-Along on Sunday, April 27 ! Whether you're team Glinda or Elphaba, this is your chance to sing along to your favorite Wicked songs in a fun, interactive, and family-friendly event. Belt out classics like “Defying Gravity,” “Popular,” “For Good,” and more as the story of friendship, power, and destiny unfolds. The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz Based on the beloved Broadway musical Wicked , the sing-along revisits the untold story of the witches of Oz—long before Dorothy dropped in. Elphaba (originally portrayed by Cynthia Erivo), a misunderstood young woman with emerald green skin, is determined to stay true to herself and make a difference in a divided world. Glinda (brought to life by Ariana Grande), ambitious and privileged, discovers that being “good” is more than just appearances. Together, they form an unlikely friendship that transforms their lives and the magical world of Oz. A Night of Magic, Music & Memories This interactive sing-along screening is perfect for musical lovers of all ages. Come in costume, bring your best vocals, and be part of a joyful celebration of Wicked ’s unforgettable score and story. Great for families, groups of friends, and Broadway fans alike—don’t miss this magical musical moment at The Palace! 🎟️ Tickets are on sale now—join us and let your voice be heard in Oz!
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