Posts filed under ‘Events’
77th Annual Dogwood Festival: The Perfect Way to Spend Mother’s Day Weekend!
77TH ANNUAL DOGWOOD FESTIVAL
MAY 11-13, 2012
at Greenfield Hill Congregational Church
1045 Old Academy Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824
Our Spirit of Community
Goodwill * Outreach * Fellowship
The Greenfield Hill Congregational Church 77th Annual Dogwood Festival will be held on the church, grounds on Mother’s Day weekend, May 11-13, 2012. The Dogwood Festival is the harbinger of spring and the whole town of Fairfield has come to own that symbol of the Dogwood. The feeling of driving up Bronson Road to see the beauty of the pink, white, and purple blooms against the stark contrast of an early spring sky is extraordinary.
Our 77th Annual Dogwood Festival is a time-honored tradition that has had a strong evolution and continues to receive extensive community support,” said Alida Ward, co-minister. “We will be featuring long-time arts and crafts vendors, as well as several new artisans and craftspeople this year. The weekend-long events are shaping up to be some of our most comprehensive and exciting events of the year in Fairfield and perhaps since the Festival’s inception,” she added.
“A portion of monies raised will support local, national and international charities like Operation Hope,Children At Risk Fund, Janus House, Center for Women & Families, and Project Learn with the balance of the fundraising to support the church mission and vision as part of the fabric of the local community,” said David Rowe, co-minister.
Michael Howard, a longtime church member and Dogwood Festival Properties Coordinator added, “The Dogwood Festival has, for 77 years, been a wonderful tradition within the Fairfield community, involving so many in our congregation to make it the success that it is every year, and with the majority of the proceeds going to mission-supported activities and projects.”
There are many weekend-long festival events. Here’s a complete listing of Things to Do, Where to Shop and Where to Eat:
THINGS TO DO
FRIDAY LUNCHEON ~Join us for our 3rd Annual Friday Luncheon. Featuring Spring Arrangements created by local floral designers, “How To Demos” for creating Dramatic Planters & Pots and a discussion on Spring Pruning with a local arborist. Lunch and wine provided, tickets sold in advance in the church office. Walk-ins accommodated, space permitting.
SATURDAY NIGHT BBQ & DANCE ~ Join us for our fifth annual Saturday Night Party. This year’s theme is“Painting the Town.” Proceeds to benefit the church renovation painting project. Enjoy great food, and dance the night away. A live auction will be featured. Tickets sold in advance in the church office.
CONCERTS IN THE SANCTUARY ~ Come enjoy the joyful and stirring sounds of Spring.
CHILDREN’S CRAFTS ~ For the budding artist, fun hands-on craft activities for children aged 3 to teens: ceramics, sand art, picture frames, flowerpots, and wooden toy decorating. Come get your child’s face (or yours) painted professionally!
CHILDREN’S GAMES ~ Bring the kids over for some fun! Amusements for all ages. Carnival games including mini golf, bean- bag and ring toss. Everyone is a winner!
BASEBALL RADAR SPEED PITCHING ~ see just how fast you can pitch a baseball!
DOGWOOD DASH ~ Now in its fifth year, the dash is a 2-mile fun run starting behind the church. Jog, walk, or race your heart out on the course wandering through beautiful Greenfield Hill landscapes beneath a canopy of pink and white Dogwood blossoms!
DOGWOOD MINI DASH ~ For young dashers (ages 2 – 7) an age appropriate race held in the Memorial Garden behind the Len Morgan Youth Barn.
HERITAGE WALKING TOUR ~ Guided walking tour through gardens and historic sites “On the Hill”surrounding the church.
WHERE TO SHOP
ART SHOW ~ Come be amazed at the talent of local artists. Shop for some new art for your home or as a great gift. Join us for wine and cheese at our “Meet the Artists”.
JURIED CRAFT SHOW ~ Over 40 New England juried crafters offering jewelry, hand crafted furniture, photography, garden ornaments, handbags, hand made musical instruments, and much, much more!
KATE’S CLOTHES ~ Shop for yourself and your loved ones at prices you just don’t see. New and gently used women and children’s clothing.
KATE’S CORNER & ANTIQUES ~ Come shop at our church-wide ‘tag-sale’! Many treasures are to be found: vintage jewelry, books, music, kitchen accoutrements, furniture, toys and much more– all at bygone era prices. Peruse our finer treasures, art, furniture, lamps and decorative pieces, as well.
PLANT & GARDEN BOUTIQUE ~ Bring some color into your life, by stopping by the Plant Tent! We have a beautiful variety of perennials, herbs, potted plants and hanging baskets for your gardens, as well as a collection of gardening accessories. It’s the perfect place to shop for Mom, and for all those with a ‘green thumb’.
WHERE TO EAT
BLOSSOM BAKERY ~ Enjoy the culinary skills of our talented bakers at the Blossom Bakery located in the SPF Grill tent. Cakes, pies, cookies, brownies, breads and a variety of cupcakes are available to bring home, or consume on the spot!
BLOSSOM CAFE
Savor delicious gourmet salads, sandwiches, soups and dessert treats served up to you in the Church House’s Memorial Room. Hot and cold beverages are also available.
SPF GRILL ~ Hot dogs, hamburgers, and more! Presented by the youth of the church, all proceeds from the grill are used to help our youth travel to and work with the Appalachia Service Project– a life changing experience, where each summer they help repair homes for those in need. Homemade Ice Cream from Maine is also available for sale here.
SPF GRILL FOR BLOSSOM BUDS ~ For the starving young artist or famished Dogwood Scamper – hot dogs, hamburgers and juice boxes galore. Located next to the Children’s Area. Come and Get It!
Schedule of Events:
Friday, May 11th
12- 2:00 p.m. 3rd Annual Dogwood Festival Friday Luncheon with Spring Arrangements, “How To Demos” for creating Dramatic Planters & Pots and Spring Pruning discussion with a local arborist
2:00 p.m. Dogwood Festival Art Show Opening
2:00 p.m. Piano Duets – Sandra Murphy & Rita Lapcevic
Saturday, May 12th
8:30 a.m. The 5th Annual Dogwood Dash – A two mile family fun run and walk – all are welcome!
10:00 a.m. Festival Opens on the Greenfield Hill Church grounds
10:30-11 a.m. Dogwood Mini Dash – For young dashers (2-7 years,) a fun, age-appropriate race held in the Memorial Garden
1:00 p.m. Greenfield Hill Church Choir & Men’s Chorus – Sandra Murphy, director
3:00 p.m. Fairfield Country Day School Pinstripes Chorus & Bell Choir
7:00-10 p.m. “Paint the Town” Saturday Night BBQ and Dance Benefit ~ to raise funds for the church renovation painting project of Greenfield Hill Congregational Church. Open to the whole community.
Sunday, May 13th
12:00 noon Blessing of the Animals
12:00 noon Festival opens on the Greenfield Hill Church grounds
2:00 p.m. Piano Selections – Alex Beyer
Check out the schedule of events on the web at www.greenfieldhillchurch.com.
Festival hours: Friday, May 11, 10am-5pm, Saturday, May 12, 10am-5pm, Sunday May 13, 12noon-5pm
NO ADMISSION ~ for 77 years!
# # #
The Beginnings of the Dogwood Festival
1936 Due to the scores of people who drive through Greenfield Hill during May to view the dogwoods in bloom, the Ladies Sewing Society decides to make use of their beautiful attraction. Led by Mrs. Reverend Reginald Lundgren, a card table is set up in front of the church to sell homemade wares including: aprons, pot holders and pickles as a fund raising event for the church’s mission work.
1938 After a weekend visit to Connecticut, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt writes in her “My Day” column [there] “is an avenue of pink and white dogwood on Greenfield Hill such as I have never seen anywhere else in this country”.
May Happenings at The Maritime Aquarium
THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK, 10 N. Water Street, Norwalk, CT;(203) 852-0700, www.MaritimeAquarium.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
The only Aquarium focused on Long Island Sound presents sharks, seals, river otters, sea turtles, jellyfish and more than 100 other species from Long Island Sound and its watershed. Two staffed touch tanks allow hands-on close encounters with intertidal animals and a chance to pet live sharks and rays. “Go Fish!” explores our cultural relationship with the sea through fishing and the sustainable seafood movement. “Ocean Playspace” offers fun for toddlers and a rest for big people. Marine Lab shows visitors how we care for marine animals, including raising baby seahorses and jellies. IMAX® theater offers the largest movie screen in Connecticut. And, on weekends (daily in July & August), come aboard for exciting hands-on study cruises out onto the Sound aboard the research vessel Oceanic.
Special Exhibit: “White Alligator”
Open Sat., May 26 – Labor Day (Sept. 3)
See a very rare “great white of the wetlands,” an 8-foot white alligator!
It may be the rarest live animal you’ll ever see. Of some 5 million or so American alligators thought to be alive, only 44 are white and The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk has one for the summer.
This “Cajun curiosity,” hatched in Louisiana and raised in Florida, will be on display from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. The exhibit is free with Aquarium admission.
Previous visits of a white alligator in 2005 and 2008 were extremely popular with Aquarium visitors.
The alligator to be exhibited isn’t an albino, it’s leucistic. (Albinism and leucism are similar in that both have a genetic cause that results in little or no skin color. Leucistic animals can have normal eye color, while albino animals will have red eyes.)
Aside from being creamy white, the alligator looks and acts like a regular gator.
White alligators are rare because, when young in the wild, they cannot hide from predators. Also, alligators are cold-blooded reptiles that rely upon the warmth of their surroundings for energy. Unfortunately, white alligators can’t bask in the sun because they’re susceptible to sunburns. (The Aquarium’s visiting white alligator will enjoy a special shaded, heated enclosure.)
NORWALK, CT – Get close to one of the rarest animals you’ll ever see in a special “White Alligator” exhibit, open Memorial Day-Labor Day at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. It will be included with Aquarium admission. Get more details at www.maritimeaquarium.org.
New “Sharks & Rays” Gallery
Opened April 14
Come and play in the shark-infested waters of The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, with a new Sharks & Rays gallery that offers the chance to touch a live shark.
Just opened in April, the new gallery’s Shark & Ray Touch Pool features nurse sharks and several species of rays. More than 90 feet of pool-edge access allows more visitors more chances to run their fingers down the backs of these prowling – but harmless – predators. (By comparison, the Aquarium’s former Ray Touch Pool, which has closed, had slightly more than 20 feet of visitor access.)
A clear side panel on the new exhibit provides fascinating underwater views of the sharks and rays as well.
Other don’t-miss exhibits in the new “Sharks & Rays” gallery display the creatures as they come to life. Watch as skates and chain dogfish sharks develop in – and hatch from – their embryonic egg cases. Be charmed by baby sharks and rays. And get a real feel for sharks, by touching actual shark teeth and cartilage at an artifacts display.
This permanent new gallery is part of the Aquarium’s $4 million “FINtastic RefurbFISHment,” which mostly opened in February.
Marine Life Study Cruises
April 28 – June 30: at 1 p.m. Saturdays.
July & August: at 1 p.m. daily.
Cruise out for close encounters with crabs, fish, lobsters and always a few surprises when you come aboard the research vessel Oceanic for The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk’s new season of Marine Life Study Cruises.
These exciting outings reveal what is, to many, a surprising diversity of marine life just off our shores in Long Island Sound. Aquarium educators put participants to work in collecting and examining animals from all levels of the water column: tiny wriggly plankton gathered at the surface (and viewed with a videomicroscope), little crabs and worms grabbed from the muddy bottom, and an always-unique variety of fish, crabs, lobsters and surprises brought up in the Oceanic’s trawl net.
Starting April 28, Marine Life Study Cruises will occur at 1 p.m. Saturdays through June 30. Beginning July 1, they’ll depart at 1 p.m. daily through August.
Weekday chartered cruises are available for school groups.
Tickets are $20.50, or $18.50 for Aquarium members. Maritime Aquarium Study Cruises are good for ages 8 and older. Space on the Oceanic is limited so advance reservations are strongly recommended. Walk-up tickets will be sold, space permitting.The cruises depart from the dock outside the Aquarium’s IMAX movie theater.
To purchase tickets or for more details, go online towww.MaritimeAquarium.org or call (203) 852-0700, ext. 2206.
More Special Exhibits
• “Meerkats”
Special exhibit open daily through through Labor Day 2012
A family of meerkats, one of Africa’s most entertaining species, burrows into visitors’ hearts in this special exhibit at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk.
First popularized by the comical sidekick Timon in Disney’s “The Lion King,” and then celebrated in the Animal Planet television series “Meerkat Manor” (2005-2009), meerkats are members of the mongoose family that live in social “mobs” in the Kalahari Desert, in the southern African nations of Botswana and South Africa.
No mere cats, meerkats (Suricata suricatta) are fascinating for living in structured but cooperative societies, including a foraging strategy where adults take turns standing guard upright on their hind feet, watching for predators, while the others eat.
The exhibit features six sibling meerkats – three males, three females – born in the Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City, Utah. Their exhibit offers the meerkats lots of opportunities for climbing, digging and exploring, with several feeding locations to keep them always on the alert for incoming crickets. And a viewing bubble lets visitors pop up right among the meerkats.
It’s made possible by Bank of America and Fifth Street Capital, and is free with Aquarium admission.
• “Africa: From the Desert to the Sea”
Special exhibit open daily through through Labor Day 2012.
Explore the aquatic wonders of Africa and discover how the continent’s fish – though much different from those in Long Island Sound – face similar environmental challenges.
See amazing fish from the Nile River, the lakes of Africa’s Great Rift Valley and the Red Sea. Species highlighted include exotic air-breathing lungfish that can survive for a year if their waterhole goes dry, and electric catfish that use bioelectric radar to sense surroundings and zap their food in a dark and murky habitat. Colorful cichlids and coral reef species shine in shimmering rainbows.
Sponsored by Bank of America and free with Aquarium admission.
In The IMAX Movie Theater
Connecticut’s largest IMAX theater, with a screen that’s six stories high and eight stories wide. For the latest movie schedule, call, go online or text “TMA” to 71297. (Regular texting charges apply.)
Daily April 20 – Sept. 3:
• “To the Arctic”
Call, text or go online for IMAX show times.
Follow a polar bear and her two cubs as they navigate a changing wilderness in the compelling new IMAX movie “To the Arctic.”
Travel with a migrating herd of caribou, plunge into the ethereal underwater world of waltzing walruses and gaze across an incredible vast expanse of the Arctic Ocean, an exquisite spectacle of sapphire white – all shown with dazzling clarity on the Aquarium’s six-story screen.
Two-time Oscar-winning actress Meryl Streep narrates the film, which is a production of Warner Bros. Pictures, MacGillivray Freeman Films and IMAX Corp.
• “Sea Rex: Journey to a Prehistoric World”
Call, text or go online for IMAX show times.
Through the power of IMAX, experience a wondrous adventure from the dinosaur age. Join an imaginative young woman named Julie on a unique voyage through time and space. Explore an amazing underwater universe inhabited by such creatures asLiopleurodon and long-necked Elasmosaurus – enormous animals that were ruling the seas before dinosaurs conquered the earth. See science come alive in an entertaining manner and get ready for a face-to-face encounter with a gigantic Prognathodon, the T-Rex of the seas!
• “Search for the Great Sharks”
Call, text or go online for IMAX show times.
Join shark experts Dr. Eugenie Clark and Rodney Fox on a round-the-globe expedition for close encounters with some of the world’s largest sharks, including whale sharks and great whites. Swim with a whale shark (life-sized on the giant IMAX screen), witness the birth of a baby shark and see if Fox survives when dropped into great white-infested waters while inside a clear diving tube.
• “Born to Be Wild”
Call, text or go online for IMAX show times.
This inspiring film follows orphaned baby orangutans and elephants, and the extraordinary people who rescue and raise them for eventual release back into the wild.
This heartwarming adventure transports audiences into the lush rain forests of Borneo with world-renowned primatologist Dr. Biruté Mary Galdikas, and across the rugged Kenyan savannah with celebrated elephant authority Dame Daphne Sheldrick, as they and their teams rescue, rehabilitate and return these incredible animals back to the wild. It’s narrated by Academy-Award® winner Morgan Freeman.
Trainings for Horseshoe-Crab Tagging
Thurs., May 3 and Sun., May 6, both at 7 p.m.
It may not be sweet romance but the spring moons soon will be drawing male and female horseshoe crabs up onto our beaches for an annual mating ritual.
Staff from The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk will be on hand to greet them. But your help is needed.
The Maritime Aquarium is seeking volunteers to help attach census tags to horseshoe crabs as the crabs come up out of the water to spawn at Calf Pasture Beach. It’s all part of a census of horseshoe crabs in Long Island Sound, being led by Dr. Jennifer Mattei of Sacred Heart University in Fairfield. The Maritime Aquarium is assisting with the census and tagging.
The horseshoe crab population on the East Coast may be declining as the animals are harvested and ground up for use as bait in eel pots. Fewer horseshoe crabs would mean fewer horseshoe crab eggs, which are an important food source for migrating shorebirds. Thus, fewer horseshoe crabs could mean fewer birds on our coastline. Dr. Mattei’s census is establishing a baseline crab population and will reveal horseshoe crab migrations and any change in numbers.
Horseshoe crabs come up onto beaches to spawn on the nights of the full and new moons. That’s a tagging bonanza time for researchers, so extra volunteers are needed to help.
To participate, volunteers should attend one of two training sessions at the Aquarium: at 7 p.m. on either Thurs., May 3 or Sun., May 6. They’ll learn about the natural history of horseshoe crabs, what has been learned so far from the census work, and how to safely tag horseshoe crabs. Volunteers should be in 10th grade or older. Younger children can assist if working with a parent, teacher or guardian.
Tagging sessions at Calf Pasture will be held on selected mornings and evenings later in the month of May and also in June.
To sign up or for more details about the training sessions, call The Maritime Aquarium at (203) 852-0700, ext. 2352, or e-mailjschnierlein@maritimeaquarium.org.
Toy Boat-Making Workshop
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays & Sundays.
Visit the toy boat-making area on weekends for a fun 20-minute boat-building project. Build and decorate a toy sailboat to take home as a special keepsake of your visit. Cost: $5 per child (plus Aquarium admission)
Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Sat., May 19 at 8:15 a.m.
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk opens its backstage spaces for a rare behind-the-scenes tour. Conducted before the Aquarium opens, from 8:15 to 10 a.m., the guided tour offers unique opportunities to see how the animal-husbandry staff meets the varying food and water needs of some 2,000 resident animals.
The tour includes stops at the Aquarium’s “fish kitchen,” where 18 tons of fish a year is prepared, and above the 110,000-gallon Open Ocean tank, where the dorsal fins of 8-foot sand tiger sharks cut through the water surface. Learn the delicate requirements of a jellyfish “nursery.”
Participants must be at least 10 years old; under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Cost is $32.50 ($22.50 for Aquarium members) and includes Aquarium admission.
The tour is limited to 25 people, so reservations are strongly recommended. Walk-up tickets will be sold, space permitting.
For reservations or more details, call (203) 852-0700, ext. 2206.
HOURS:
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily; open until 6 p.m. daily in July & August. (Closed only Thanksgiving Day & Christmas Day)
FOR INFORMATION:
Call (203) 852-0700 or go online to www.maritimeaquarium.org or for text alerts and our IMAX movie schedule, text “TMA” to 71297. (Standard text charges apply.)
ADMISSION:
Aquarium only: $12.95 for adults, $11.95 for seniors 65+ and $9.95 for children 2-12. Members free.
Adventure Pass (Aquarium + IMAX movie): $19.45 for adults, $17.95 for seniors 65+ and $14.45 children for 2-12.
IMAX movie: $9 adults, $8 seniors and $6.50 kids 2-12. Members save $2.
Hollywood IMAX movies: $11.50 for adults, $10.50 for seniors and $9.50 for children 2-12.
# # #
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk inspires people of all ages to appreciate Long Island Sound and protect it for future generations. A vibrant and entertaining learning environment, it achieves this goal through living exhibits, marine science, and environmental education.
The Maritime Aquarium receives support from the State of Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism.
2nd Year Brings Expanded “Boutique and Cafe” to Renowned Art Show
The Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County, as part of the 20th Annual Art Show, is thrilled to present eighteen unique vendors who will comprise the 2nd Annual “Boutique & Cafe” to be held this Saturday, March 31st, and Sunday, April 1st, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Burr Homestead, 739 Old Post Rd., Fairfield.
After the success of 2011′s pilot boutique, the tent behind the Burr Mansion will hold a full 50% more vendors than last year as well as an expanded cafe, catered by the renowned Bistro Box. With vendors from throughout the region with wares for all tastes and budgets, the Boutique expands on the Art Show’s motto: “Beautify your home; better your community.” On offer will be jewelry, objets d’art, stationery, home goods, fashion accessories, children’s fashions and gifts, and other unexpected treats.
Anticipated vendors include the sophisticated scents of Jo Malone, the original jewelry of Silpada and Oliphant, women’s fashions from Flourishes and Bulabula Fashions, baby and children’s gifts from Splurge of Greenwich and Susan Pillay, and exclusive handcrafted accessories from Nature Girl Designs and Bungalow Basics.
Each vendor has graciously agreed to donate 15% of their profits to support JLEFC mission and causes. Even if fine art is not in one’s budget this year, the Art Show’s Boutique offerings make helping our neighbors in need affordable for all who attend.
Art Show attendees and Boutique shoppers will also be able to enjoy “gourmet road food” provided by Bistro Box in the tent café, as well as live piano music by Russell Wickett and live guitar by Henry Boyd.
A full list of vendors follows. The JLEFC membership looks forward to seeing everyone at 2012′s not-to-be-missed event!
Boutique Vendors
A Charmed Life-Fine Jewelry Featuring Charms, High-Karat Gold, & Gemstones
Black Meadow Flora-Exquisite High-Quality Orchids
Buckle Bling-One-of-a-Kind Belt Buckles, Pendants, & Necklaces
Bulabula Fashions-Exotic Women’s Fashion Apparel & Accessories from Around the World
Bungalow Basics-Stylish Gifts, Home Accents, Jewelry, & Accessories
Everything is Rosey-Unique Accessories, Gifts, & Home Decor
Flourishes-Stylish Women’s Fashion, Accessories, & Jewelry
Ilyse’s Pieces-Handcrafted Jewelry with a Modern Twist
Jo Malone-Exclusive Scents for Bath, Body, & Home
M. Saverine Decoupage-High-Quality Decoupage Plates Featuring Antique Botanicals & Nautical Images
Nature Girl Designs-Handcrafted Fashion Accessories Including Belts, Wrist Cuffs, Pendants, & Cufflinks
Oliphant -Classic Jewelry Featuring Bold & Whimsical Designs
patrice-Vintage Jewelry, Tunics, Sarongs, Scarves, Tablecloths, Placemats, & Napkins
Peaceable Hill Paperie-Original Watercolor Stationery on Linen Stock
Silpada Designs-Fine Sterling Silver Jewelry
Small Field Papers-High-Quality Stationery & Personalized Goods
Splurge of Greenwich-Unique, Eclectic Gifts & Home Decor
Susan Pillay-Hand-Painted Children’s Fashions
Cafe Caterer
Bistro Box-Gourmet Road Food
Fairfield County’s Premier Artists’ Showcase Celebrates 20th Year
The art community can anticipate a banner year for the area’s premier exhibition of local and regional artists, as the Annual Art Show hosted by The Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County celebrates its 20th anniversary.
The event, which takes place March 30 – April 1, 2012, will feature pieces from over 100 artists, as well as a destination boutique and a café (Saturday and Sunday only), and interior design inspirations throughout the Burr Homestead, from 10am to 5pm daily.
“The Annual Art Show features something for everyone, at all price points, from the traditionalist looking for a landscape, to a loft-dweller interested in black-and-white photography. We are proud to be able to gather top artists from throughout the region under one historic roof,” said 2011-2012 JLEFC president Hannah Everard.
The show will feature both traditional representational paintings and contemporary abstract works at affordable prices, as well as photographs, prints, drawings and sculpture by artists represented by galleries throughout Connecticut and the Northeast. Noted artists who are returning to the show to exhibit their work include Claudia Mengel, an elected member of the Silvermine Guild of Artists noted for her abstract paintings and prints; Stephanie Peterson, the illustrator of the popular Peek-a-Moo! children’s book series; Anda Styler, whose work focuses on the magic of the New England landscape; and Ellen Hovercamp, whose digital scans of flowers illustrated the recently published “Natural Companions” by noted garden writer Ken Druse.
New artists in the show this year include Ann Mallory, whose ceramic sculpture was awarded Best in Show at the 2011 Westport Fine Arts Festival; Jay Misencik, whose photographs of Bridgeport’s Palace and Majestic Theaters were featured in a recent exhibit at the Fairfield Museum and History Center; and Ken Scaglia, awarded Best in Show at the 2011 Friends of Hall-Brooke Art Show for his realist paintings of classic cars.
In addition to the art on show, the Burr Mansion will provide additional inspiration via interior decoration throughout the space, focusing on the historic mantelpieces in the home. This year’s designers are Connie Cooper of Connie Cooper Designs, Victoria Ross of Victoria Ross Florals & Events, Christopher Stevens of Christopher Stevens LLC, Sarah Weiland of Tusk Home and Design LLC, Robin O’Neil of robin’s nest design LLC and Desiree Witt of The Pious Bird of Good Omen.
On Saturday and Sunday portrait artists will be on hand to create a more personal piece of art for patrons to take home.• Beverly Branch will paint half hour acrylic portrait sketches on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.• Joan Elizabeth Goodman, a member of the Connecticut Society of Portrait Artists, will be doing half hour colored pencil portrait sketches. Saturday 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.• Carol Lebeaux will create silhouette portraits Saturday and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.Portrait appointments may be made in advance by calling the League office at (203) 259-9995.
After a successful first year, the Boutique will also be returning to the Art Show on Saturday, March 31 and Sunday, April 1. Filled with vendors from throughout the region with wares for all tastes and budgets, the Boutique expands on the Art Show’s motto: “Beautify your home; better your community.” On offer will be jewelry, objets d’art, stationery, home goods, fashion accessories, and other unexpected treats. Anticipated vendors include the sophisticated scents of Jo Malone, the original jewelry of Silpada and Oliphant, women’s fashions from Flourishes and Bulabula Fashions, and exclusive handcrafted accessories from Nature Girl Designs and Bungalow Basics. Art Show attendees and Boutique shoppers will also be able to enjoy “gourmet road food” provided by Bistro Box in the tent café, as well as live piano music by Russell Wickett and live guitar by Henry Boyd.
Funds raised from art sales and other weekend events support the JLEFC and its community projects. Tickets are $7 at the door, or $5 in advance. Seniors are $5 and children under 12 attend for free.Members of the community are invited to come celebrate the 20th Annual Art Show at its Great Gatsby Preview Gala on Friday, March 30th 6:30 to 10:30 at the Burr Homestead. Tickets can be purchased at www.jlefc.org and are priced at $100/person including dinner, live band, open bar and silent auction.
About The Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County
The Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. Communities represented by the JLEFC include Bridgeport, Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Newtown, Redding, Shelton, Southport, Stratford, Trumbull, Weston and Westport. For more information about the League or volunteer opportunities, please visit us online at www.jlefc.org or call 203-259-9995.
Now Updated: Spring Into Fairfield Fun!
Nature, animals, history, dancing, theater, and art. Whatever your family’s interest, there are a host of events in our area to put a spring in little steps. Let’s not forget that it’s also the season of Easter egg hunts and carnivals, events kids remember for a lifetime!
Ongoing
Fairfield Public Library Children’s Programs
Ongoing, Winter & Spring 2012
Our library system in Fairfield is a true treasure. With more programs for children and parents than we can possibly list here, many of which are free, and several of which you can simply drop-in, their Calendar of Events page should be bookmarked on all Fairfield parents’ computers. Programs are held in both the Main Branch downtown and the Fairfield Woods Branch on Fairfield Woods Rd. Seriously not to be missed!
For More Information: http://fairfieldpubliclibrary.org; Main Branch: 203.256.3120; Fairfield Woods Branch: 203.255.7308
Pequot Library Children’s Programs
Ongoing, Winter & Spring 2012
As if having one stellar library system isn’t enough, we must not forget that the Pequot Library in Southport has their own full schedule of enriching kids’ offerings. Again, with a bookmark-worthy calendar, and several free and drop-in programs, there’s almost always a rewarding experience to be had at our towns’ libraries.
For More Information: http://www.pequotlibrary.org; 720 Pequot Avenue Southport, CT 06890
2011/2012 Bridgeport Sound Tigers’ Season
Now Until Apr 15, 2012
The 2011/2012 Sound Tiger’s season runs Oct 8th, through mid-April, 2012, bringing hockey and family entertainment to Bridgeport. You’ll enjoy the many upcoming features multiplying the fun at the Sound Tiger’s games: season tickets, group outings, special family events, birthday parties and more!
For More Information: Bridgeport Sound Tigers; 600 Main Street, Bridgeport, CT; info@soundtigers.com; 203.334.GOAL; http://www.soundtigers.com
March 2012
Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo’s Zoo Tots
Tuesday, March 13 & Wednesday, March 14 at 10:30 AM
This monthly 45-minute program for children 22 months to four years, who are accompanied by an adult, may include stories, games, activities, crafts, and live animals. This session, entitled “Animal Tales,” will feature animal tails and their functions. The cost is $10 for Zoo members and one child, and $15 for non-members and one child. To reserve a space in the program, pre-register by calling the Zoo’s Education Department at 203-394-6563.
For More Information: Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo; 1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport, CT, 06610; 203.394.6565; www.beardsleyzoo.org
Connecticut Audubon Society’s Live Birds of Prey
Saturday, March 17
10:30am – 11:30am
Sleek, strong, silent. Falcons, hawks and owls. Meet the Center at Fairfield’s live birds of prey up close! These birds cannot be released back into the wild, but now serve as bird ambassadors who help us tell the story of their status in Connecticut and what each of us can do to help them. Fee: $3 for CAS Members, $6 for Non-members. To register or for more information, call 203-259-6305 ext. 109.
For More Information:Connecticut Audubon Society; 2325 Burr Street, Fairfield; 203.259.6305; www.ctaudubon.org
Fairfield Museum and History Center
Storytime: Paint the Town Red
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
$5 per child; Recommended for ages 4 – 6, accompanied by an adult.
Come to the Fairfield Museum and History Center and hear engaging stories, followed by a fun craft.This week’s theme is Paint the Town Red. Listen to storybook adventures with vibrant illustrations and then create your own painting.
For More Information: Fairfield Museum and History Center; 370 Beach Road,Fairfield CT, 06824; 203.259.1598; www.fairfieldhistory.org. This event is accessible to people with disabilities.
Fairfield Museum and History Center
Girls Club: Wartime with Molly
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
$15; $10 for members. For Grades 3-5. Please pre-register.
Growing up during World War II was tough, but people throughout the world galvanized together to save resources and to make sacrifices. Learn about Molly’s life during the war and she discovered the fascinating stories of Britain’s royalty.
For More Information: Fairfield Museum and History Center; 370 Beach Road,Fairfield CT, 06824; 203.259.1598; www.fairfieldhistory.org. This event is accessible to people with disabilities.
Fairfield Parks and Recreation
Family Fun Dance
A Winter Welcome at the “New” Penfield Pavilion on Beautiful Long Island Sound! Sponsored by the Town Youth Council and Fairfield Parks & Recreation
Friday, March 23rd; 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Reservations are a must and space is limited. Call the Recreation Department at 203-256-3191 beginning Wednesday, January 18th at 9:00 am to reserve your family’s spot. Residents are invited to dance the night away at the family fun dance at the Penfield Pavilion, 323 Fairfield Beach Road. Here’s your chance to see this beautiful new facility. DJ, Marvin Parsons and the Town Youth Council will get your family up and dancing! This event is presented by the Town Youth Council and a $1.00 per person donation will be collected at the door to benefit a TYC fundraiser, “The Jacky Durrell Memorial Service Award.” Each year, we award three, $1000.00 scholarships to Fairfield Graduates for their community service accomplishments. Please bring your own dinner and drinks!
For More Information: Fairfield Parks & Recreation Department ; 75 Mill Plain Road, Fairfield, CT 06824; (203) 256-3191;cal.fairfieldct.org; recsupport@town.fairfield.ct.us
Stepping Stones Museum
Family Fun Night: The Cat in The Hat
Friday, March 23. 6-8:30PM
Everyone’s favorite cat from the mind of Sr. Seuss is on hand for storytelling, crafts, and a musical parade. Appripriate for toddlers, preschoolers, and young elementary kids. Register online or call.
For More Information: Stepping Stones Museum; 303 West Ave., Norwalk, CT; 203.899.0606 x264; steppingstonesmuseum.org
Yale Peabody Museum
A Night at the Peabody: A Family Night Full of Fun and Surprises
Saturday, March 24, 6-9 PM
Tickets:$12 and $18, under age 3 free
Advance purchase required at www.peabodystore.com
Everything is more fun at night, including A Night at The Peabody Museum. Families can visit the museum after hours and enjoy games, crafts, scavenger hunts, live animals, and some other surprises.
For More Information: Yale Peabody Museum; 170 Whitney Ave., New haven, CT; www.peabody.yale.edu/events; 203.432.5050
Connecticut Audubon Society’s Egg-stravaganza
Saturday, March 31; 9:30am -11am & 1:30pm – 3pm
“Eggs-plore” what’s hatching at the Center at Fairfield’s 16th annual “egg-stravaganza!” Fun-filled family activities include an egg hunt (ideal for children 8 and under), spring-themed craft making, live animal meet-and-greet, and a visit from a very special rabbit. Our morning egg hunt includes a continental breakfast while our afternoon egg hunt includes juice, cookies and healthy snacks. Bring cameras and a basket! Program held rain or shine.
For registration call 203-259-6305 Ext.109. Pre-registration and pre-payment required. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Program fee: $10/child, $5/adult for CAS members; $15/child, $10/adult for non-members. Free for children under 2 years old. All proceeds support Connecticut Audubon Society environmental education programs.
For More Information: Connecticut Audubon Society; 2325 Burr Street, Fairfield; 203.259.6305; www.ctaudubon.org
Fairfield Parks and Recreation
Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, March 31, 2012 1:00 PM SHARP!
South Pine Creek Soccer Field on Old Dam Road
A sure sign that spring is right around the corner is the Annual Easter Egg Hunt presented by the Town Youth Council and Fairfield Parks and Recreation Department. Pre-school children to 3rd graders should bring their Easter Baskets to the South Pine Creek Soccer Field on Old Dam Road on Saturday, April 16. The Egg Hunt starts at 1:00 PM sharp, but all are encouraged to come down early and meet the Easter Bunny. A $1.00 per person donation is requested to benefit a Town Youth Council fundraiser, “The Jacky Durrell Memorial Service Award Scholarship” which awards 3 scholarships to local High School Seniors each year. Don’t be late! The eggs go fast !
In case of inclement weather call the Recreation hotline (203) 256-3144 the morning of the event.
For More Information: Fairfield Parks & Recreation Department ; 75 Mill Plain Road, Fairfield, CT 06824; (203) 256-3191; cal.fairfieldct.org; recsupport@town.fairfield.ct.us
The Westport Country Playhouse
The Ugly Duckling and The Tortoise and the Hare
Sunday, March 18, 2012
1pm and 4pm
Pre-school & younger, Young elementary
$18
Children ages six and up can enjoy two classic fairy tales produced by Corbian/Lightwire Theater. Lined with electroluminescent wire, these well-known characters continue the Corbian tradition as they illuminate the darkened stage and put a modern spin on classic tales.
For More Information: www.westportplayhouse.org; 203-227-4177; 25 Powers Court (off Route 1), Westport, CT 06880
April 2012
Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo
Zoo Tots
Mon, 04/09/2012, 10:30am – 11:15am
Tue, 04/10/2012, 10:30am – 11:15am
This monthly 45-minute program for children 22 months to four years, who are accompanied by an adult, may include stories, games, activities, crafts, and live animals. This session, entitled “Animal Tales,” will feature animal tails and their functions. The cost is $10 for Zoo members and one child, and $15 for non-members and one child. To reserve a space in the program, pre-register by calling the Zoo’s Education Department at 203-394-6563.
For More Information: Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo; 1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport, CT, 06610; 203.394.6565; www.beardsleyzoo.org
Fairfield Museum and History Center
Jump into Spring!
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
$5 per child. Recommended for ages 4 – 6, accompanied by an adult.
Come to the Fairfield Museum and History Center and hear engaging stories, followed by a fun craft. Spring is finally here! Hear stories that celebrate animals that love to run, romp and jump. Decorate animal pictures with fun shapes inspired by nature.
For More Information: Fairfield Museum and History Center; 370 Beach Road,Fairfield CT, 06824; 203.259.1598; www.fairfieldhistory.org
Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo
International Bat Awareness Celebration
Tue, 04/17/2012 – 11:00am – 3:00pm
Wed, 04/18/2012 – 11:00am – 3:00pm
Thu, 04/19/2012 – 11:00am – 3:00pm
Come learn all about the amazing world of bats! Activities will include scavenger hunts, crafts, story times, and bat box raffles. Program will begin in the Research Station. FREE with paid admission to the Zoo. This program is also presented on April 18 and 19.
For More Information: Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo; 1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport, CT, 06610; 203.394.6565; www.beardsleyzoo.org
Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo
Party for the Planet
Sat, 04/21/2012 – 9:00am – 3:00pm
Sun, 04/22/2012, 9:00am-3:00pm
Join Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo to celebrate the 42nd anniversary of Earth Day on April 21 and 22! Our Earth Day event is about encouraging local, organic, earth-friendly choices as a way of promoting better health for our planet and ourselves. Environmentally-friendly vendors will be on hand with everything from green cleaning products and recycled fashion accessories to better lawn care for you and wildlife! We’ll have live music performed by The Mudpuppies and by The Environmental Hootenanny with Tom Calliman and Ann Shapiro. Both performances are at the Peacock Pavilion. Come learn what you can do to make the planet a healthier place for you and your family.
For More Information: Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo; 1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport, CT, 06610; 203.394.6565; www.beardsleyzoo.org
McKinley School Carnival
Thursday, April 26, 2012 6-9 PM
Friday, April 27, 2012 6-10 PM
Saturday, April 28, 2012 1-10 PM
Sunday, April 29, 2012 12-5 PM
Jennings Beach, 880 South Benson Road, Fairfield, CT 06824
For More Information: Contact McKinley School at (203) 255-8318.
May 2012
Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo
Zoo Tots
Tue, 05/08/2012, 10:30am – 11:15am
Wed, 05/09/2012, 10:30am – 11:15am
This monthly 45-minute program for children 22 months to four years, who are accompanied by an adult, may include stories, games, crafts, and a live animal presentation. This session, “Garden Critters,” will explore our historic greenhouse and its collection as well as animals found in gardens. The cost is $10 for Zoo members and one child, and $15 for non-members and one child. To reserve a space in the program, pre-register by calling the Zoo’s Education Department at 203-394-6563.
For More Information: Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo; 1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport, CT, 06610; 203.394.6565; www.beardsleyzoo.org
Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo
Dinosaur Day
Sat, 05/12/2012
12:00pm – 3:00pm
Enjoy a day of dinosaurs and related activities at the Zoo. Dinosaur experts from around the state will bring information and artifacts on these fascinating prehistoric creatures.
For More Information: Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo; 1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport, CT, 06610; 203.394.6565; www.beardsleyzoo.org
Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo
Mother’s Day
Sun, 05/13/2012
9:00am – 4:00pm
Bring your mom to the Zoo on Mother’s Day and her ticket is on us! Connecticut’s only zoo wants to thank all those moms who work so hard throughout the year. Enjoy the special day visiting our animals and bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy in our Peacock Pavilion.
For More Information: Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo; 1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport, CT, 06610; 203.394.6565; www.beardsleyzoo.org
Fairfield Museum and History Center
Storytime: Hooray for Memorial Day!
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
$5 per child. Recommended for ages 4 – 6, accompanied by an adult.
Come to the Fairfield Museum and History Center and hear engaging stories, followed by a fun craft. This week’s theme: Feeling patriotic yet? Learn about the red, white and blue and make your own flag.
For More Information: Fairfield Museum and History Center; 370 Beach Road,Fairfield CT, 06824; 203.259.1598; www.fairfieldhistory.orgThis event is accessible to people with disabilities.
Fairfield Museum and History Center
Girls Club: Remember the Past with Addy
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
$15; $10 for members. For Grades 3-5. Please pre-register.
Learn about Addy’s challenges growing up during the Civil War. We’ll make a scrapbook to keep and exchange our own memories. We’ll also create a delicious snack inspired by history.
For More Information: Fairfield Museum and History Center; 370 Beach Road,Fairfield CT, 06824; 203.259.1598; www.fairfieldhistory.orgThis event is accessible to people with disabilities.
Holy Family Church Carnival
Thursday, May 17, 2012 6-9 pm
Friday, May 18, 2012 6-10 pm
Saturday, May 19, 2012 1-10 pm
Sunday, May 20, 2012 12-5 pm
Jennings Beach, 880 South Benson Road, Fairfield, CT 06824
For More Information: Contact Suzie Whelan at suzieharko@aol.com
Fairfield County Ducky Derby
Saturday, May 19th, 2012
The Fairfield County Duckie Derby is an annual free family fun event scheduled for May 19, 2012. Over 1000 little rubber duckies will be released into the Mill River at 1:30 for a race to the finish line. Large sized rubber ducks will be decorated ahead of time and entered into the “Decorate Me Duck” contest. Trophies and prize ribbons will be awarded. Games, food, and two fuzzy, friendly duck mascots will be on hand to entertain the “young at heart”. A $10 donation gets you and your family a race duck number- you might have a real winner. A $15 donation gets you a large rubber duck to decorate ahead of time and enter into the Decorate Me Duck Beauty Contest. All proceeds benefit St. Catherine’s Academy, a school for children with special needs located in Fairfield.
For More Information: www.stcatherineacademy.org
Fun February Activities to Get the Kids Out and About
The shortest month of the year very often feels like the LONGEST, especially with that week-long winter break when the kids are home from school. Below are some fun ideas to enjoy the time with your family during those cold, dreary winter days…
Fairfield YMCA
The Aidan Lambo Memorial Snow Flake Relay
Sunday, February 26th at 3:00 pm
Everyone swims, everyone wins!
No membership required. Everyone is welcomed, from Pikes to Sharks,(ages 3-15.) If necessary, flotation devices and assistance will be provided by swim instructors.
Enter the make your own snow flake competition! No two snow flakes are alike! The snowflake making room opens at 2:00 pm on February 26th. $1.00 entry fee. Flakes may be dropped off at the YMCA starting February 10 until competition begins.
Register at the Fairfield Y Welcome Center Desk!
Entry Fee: $10.00
Everyone receives a Snowflake Relay T-Shirt and Medal.
For More Information: Call Aquatic Director, Maureen Scinto at (203)255 2834 ext.2318. Fairfield YMCA, 841 Old Post Road, Fairfield, CT 06825, www.cccymca.org
Fairfield Public Library Children’s Programs
Ongoing, Winter & Spring 2012
Our library system in Fairfield is a true treasure. With more programs for children and parents than we can possibly list here, many of which are free, and several of which you can simply drop-in, their Calendar of Events page should be bookmarked on all Fairfield parents’ computers. Programs are held in both the Main Branch downtown and the Fairfield Woods Branch on Fairfield Woods Rd. Seriously not to be missed!
For More Information: http://fairfieldpubliclibrary.org; Main Branch: 203.256.3120; Fairfield Woods Branch: 203.255.7308
Pequot Library Children’s Programs
Ongoing, Winter & Spring 2012
As if having one stellar library system isn’t enough, we must not forget that the Pequot Library in Southport has their own full schedule of enriching kids’ offerings. Again, with a bookmark-worthy calendar, and several free and drop-in programs, there’s almost always a rewarding experience to be had at our towns’ libraries.
For More Information: http://www.pequotlibrary.org; 720 Pequot Avenue Southport, CT 06890-1496; 203.259.0346
“FINtastic RefurbFISHment” at The Maritime Aquarium!
Debuting Sat., Feb. 18
On Sat., Feb. 18, The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk will unveil its “FINtastic RefurbFISHment,” a $4 million makeover with 21 dynamic new exhibits – including 27 new species of animals – and an improved visitor experience.
“There will be new exhibits to explore, new animals to meet, a new way to flow through the Aquarium and beautiful new presentations of the exhibits that you already know and love,” said Jennifer Herring, president of The Maritime Aquarium.
The changes will be noticeable immediately, with the Aquarium’s large main hall re-envisioned with an interactive introduction to Long Island Sound and an orientation to exploring the Aquarium. This space, renamed Newman’s Own Hall, still features the harbor seals (in a “refurbFISHed” exhibit) but also now a 36-by12-foot map of Long Island Sound – an image about the size of a school bus – with interactive quizzes about the Sound’s marine animals and habitats. Videos will showcase the Sound’s history and the seals that visit the Sound each winter. The central staircase is gone, replaced by an elevator. Creation of Newman’s Own Hall was made possible by a $1.25 million gift from Newman’s Own Foundation, a longtime supporter. There exciting changes extend up into the Aquarium’s galleries, now called the Hokin Family Sound Voyage, in honor of a $1.15 million gift from Richard Hokin of Darien, a longtime member of the Aquarium’s Board of Trustees. Favorites – like the sand tiger sharks, otters, sea turtles, jellyfish and Touch Tank – have been enhanced with interactive graphics and dramatic lighting. Among the animals new to the Aquarium are American eels, fiddler crabs, skeleton shrimp, cornetfish, Sargassum fish, tubeworms and nudibranchs, plus a snapping turtle and snakes in the Watershed gallery. The Salt Marsh gallery has been opened up to Newman’s Own Hall below through a new balcony. Also part of the work is a new outdoor courtyard with a children’s playground and upgrades to such amenities as restrooms, carpeting and lighting.
The ongoing “FINtastic RefurbFISHment” is the largest transformation to the Aquarium since the March 2001 opening of the William Ziegler III Education Center, which established a new main entrance, larger gift shop and cafeteria, group lunch room and marine-biology classrooms. Besides the Newman’s Own Foundation and Hokin gifts, other sources of funding for the project include CulinArt Inc., the Aquarium’s onsite food-service company; the late William Ziegler III, another longtime Aquarium trustee; and other members of The Maritime Aquarium board. The new Maritime Aquarium exhibits were designed by Cambridge Seven Associates, Inc. of Cambridge, Mass. Consulting engineers are Altieri/Sebor/Wieber, LLC, of Norwalk.
For More Information: THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK, 10 N. Water Street, Norwalk, CT; (203) 852-0700, www.MaritimeAquarium.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Meerkat Exhibit at The Maritime Aquarium
Special Exhibit Opened Daily Through Labor Day 2012
Meerkats are members of the mongoose family that live in social “mobs” or “gangs” of up to 30 members in burrows in the Kalahari Desert, in the southern African nations of Botswana and South Africa. No mere cats, meerkats (Suricata suricatta) are fascinating for living in structured but cooperative societies, including a foraging strategy where adults take turns standing guard upright on their hind feet, watching for predators, while the others eat. The exhibit will feature six sibling meerkats – three males, three females – born in the Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City, Utah. Their Maritime Aquarium habitat will offer windows into their underground burrows, so all meerkat activity will be within view. And there will be a viewing bubble, so visitors can stand up right among the meerkats. Maritime Aquarium general admission is $11.75 adults, $10.75 for seniors 65+, and $9.75 for children 2-12.
For More Information: THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK, 10 N. Water Street, Norwalk, CT; (203) 852-0700, www.MaritimeAquarium.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
“Africa: From the Desert to the Sea” at The Maritime Aquarium
Special Exhibit Opened Daily Through Labor Day 2012
“Africa: From the Desert to the Sea” Special exhibit open daily through February 2012. Explore the aquatic wonders of Africa and discover how the continent’s fish – though much different from those in Long Island Sound – face similar environmental challenges. See amazing fish from the Nile River, the lakes of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, the Red Sea and Africa’s shorelines, including the remarkable ecosystem of Madagascar. Species highlighted include exotic air-breathing lungfish that can survive for a year if their waterhole goes dry, and electric catfish that use bioelectric radar to sense surroundings and zap their food in a dark and murky habitat. Other exotics include knifefish, bichirs and – appropriately for Africa – elephant-nose fish. Colorful cichlids and coral reef species shine in shimmering rainbows. Interspersed throughout are important messages about animal adaptations, the importance of habitat preservation and conservation, and stories that show how fish from the other side of the world face challenges similar to those in Long Island Sound. Sponsored by Bank of America and included with Aquarium admission.
For More Information: THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK, 10 N. Water Street, Norwalk, CT; (203) 852-0700, www.MaritimeAquarium.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
In The IMAX Movie Theater at The Martime Aquarium
Connecticut’s largest IMAX theater, with a screen that’s six stories high and eight stories wide. For the latest movie schedule, call, go online or text “TMA” to 71297. (Regular texting charges apply.)
“The Wizard of Oz” Special Presentation
Sun., March 4 at 2 p.m.
Experience the tornado, the Munchkins, the yellow-brick road, the horse of a different color and of course Dorothy and her three defenders like you’ve never seen them before, as The Maritime Aquarium presents “The Wizard of Oz” in the IMAX Theater on Sun., March 4. The 1939 classic will play one-time only, at 2 p.m., on the six-story screen. It’s 101 minutes long. Tickets are $11.50 for adults, $10.50 for seniors and $9.50 for children 2-12. The American Film Institute ranks “The Wizard of Oz” as the 10th Greatest Movie of All Time, and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” as No. 1 of the 100 Greatest Songs in American Film. Reserve your “Wizard of Oz” tickets online at www.maritimeaquarium.org or by calling (203) 852-0700, ext. 2206.
Daily Jan. 13 – April 19:
“Sea Rex: Journey to a Prehistoric World” Through the power of IMAX, experience a wondrous adventure from the dinosaur age. Join an imaginative young woman named Julie on a unique voyage through time and space. Explore an amazing underwater universe inhabited by such creatures as Liopleurodon and long-necked Elasmosaurus – enormous animals that were ruling the seas before dinosaurs conquered the earth. See science come alive in an entertaining manner and get ready for a face-to-face encounter with a gigantic Shonisaurus, the T-Rex of the seas!
“Search for the Great Sharks” Join shark experts Dr. Eugenie Clark and Rodney Fox on a round-the-globe expedition for close encounters with some of the world’s largest sharks, including whale sharks and great whites. Swim with a whale shark, witness the birth of a baby shark and see if Fox survives when dropped into great white-infested waters while inside a clear diving tube.
“Born to Be Wild” This inspiring film follows orphaned baby orangutans and elephants, and the extraordinary people who rescue and raise them. This heartwarming adventure transports audiences into the lush rain forests of Borneo with world-renowned primatologist Dr. Biruté Mary Galdikas, and across the rugged Kenyan savannah with celebrated elephant authority Dame Daphne Sheldrick, as they and their teams rescue, rehabilitate and return these incredible animals back to the wild. It’s narrated by Academy-Award® winner Morgan Freeman.
Call, text or go online for times for all IMAX presentations.
For More Information: THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK, 10 N. Water Street, Norwalk, CT; (203) 852-0700, www.MaritimeAquarium.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Winter Creature Cruises The Maritime Aquarium
Saturday, 2/18, at 1:00 PM; Most weekends through April 2012. Dates and departure times vary by low tide.
Journey out onto Long Island Sound in hopes of seeing some of the seals that spend the winter just off our shores during The Maritime Aquarium’s new season of Winter Creature Cruises. These invigorating cruises seek out the harbor seals, gray seals and even harp seals that have been coming down into the Sound in growing numbers each winter. Educators on board the research vessel Oceanic will point out these federally protected marine mammals and talk about their natural histories. They’ll also help identify such winter waterfowl as buffleheads, mergansers and Old Squaws.Winter Creature Cruises will occur on many weekends from December 2011 through early April 2012. Dates and departure times will vary by the tide schedule. The sole February date is: Sat., Feb. 18 at 1 p.m. See the full season schedule at www.maritimeaquarium.org/cruises_winter.html. Tickets for a Winter Creature Cruise are $20.50, or $18.50 for Aquarium members. Maritime Aquarium Study Cruises are good for ages 8 and older. We recommend that you bring binoculars and plenty of warm clothes! Space on the research vessel Oceanic is limited so advance reservations are strongly recommended. Walk-up tickets will be sold, space permitting. The cruises depart from the dock outside the Aquarium’s IMAX movie theater. For reservations or more details, call (203) 852-0700, ext. 2206.
For More Information: THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK, 10 N. Water Street, Norwalk, CT; (203) 852-0700, www.MaritimeAquarium.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
2011/2012 Bridgeport Sound Tigers’ Season
Oct 8th – Apr 15th
The 2011/2012 Sound Tiger’s season runs Oct 8th, through mid-April, 2012, bringing hockey and family entertainment to Bridgeport. You’ll enjoy the many upcoming features multiplying the fun at the Sound Tiger’s games: season tickets, group outings, special family events, birthday parties and more!
For More Information: Bridgeport Sound Tigers; 600 Main Street, Bridgeport, CT; info@soundtigers.com; 203.334.GOAL; http://www.soundtigers.com
Feeding Frenzy at The Connecticut Audubon Society
Friday, February 3rd
4:00-4:30
The CT Audubon Society will hold a “Feeding Frenzy: Mammals and Reptiles”. Attendees will have an opportunity to watch the the facility’s naturalist feed some of its resident animals, discover fun facts, and get an up-close view of the critters. All ages are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is by donation to support its animal care program. Donations of laundry soap and dishwashing soap will be accepted.
For More Information: Connecticut Audubon Society; 2325 Burr Street, Fairfield; 203.259.6305; www.ctaudubon.org
Teddy Bear Tea Party at The Stamford Museum & Nature Center
Saturday, February 11th
2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Dress up your Teddy Bears in their party best and bring them to a special tea for Valentine’s Day! Enjoy a variety of tea time treats and sweets, delight in an enchanting tale from Acting Out with Ms. Karen, and bring home your own teddy bear surprise. Space is limited, so book your spot early.
To register, call 203.977.6521.
Members: $25/person/Non-Members: $35/person.
For More Information: Stamford Museum; 39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford, CT; 203-322-1646 http://www.stamfordmuseum.org
Storytime: Puppet Shows! at The Fairfield Museum and History Center
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
11:00 am -12:00 pm
Admission: $5.00
Come to the Fairfield Museum and History Center and hear engaging stories, followed by a fun craft. $5 per child, recommended for ages 4 – 6 accompanied by an adult. Hear stories about puppets, followed by a fun puppet-making craft.
This event is accessible to people with disabilities.
For More Information: Fairfield Museum and History Center; 370 Beach Road, Fairfield CT, 06824; 203-259-1598 http://www.fairfieldhistory.org
Sketching Theatre at The Fairfield Museum and History Center
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
With artist and illustrator Deborah Bassino Workshop for ages 8 – 13 $25; Members, $20 Learn sketching techniques inspired by the rich and glorious costumes and set designs in the theatre exhibition.
Please register with the contact person for this event. Visitor Service: 203-259-1598
This event is accessible to people with disabilities.
For More Information: Fairfield Museum and History Center; 370 Beach Road, Fairfield CT, 06824; 203-259-1598 http://www.fairfieldhistory.org
Mad Masks at The Fairfield Museum and History Center
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Workshop for ages 6 – 10
Admission: $15; $10 Members
Create a mixed media mask inspired by the costumes and creatures in the Bravo! theatre exhibition, like Egyptian gods, feathered headdresses, donkeys and lions! A staff-supervised lunch time and break is available for participants who sign up for both Wednesday workshops. Please bring a peanut-free lunch. Please call to learn more about this offer.
Please register with the contact person for this event. Visitor Service: 203-259-1598
This event is accessible to people with disabilities.
For More Information: Fairfield Museum and History Center; 370 Beach Road, Fairfield CT, 06824; 203-259-1598 http://www.fairfieldhistory.org
Theatre Explorers at The Fairfield Museum and History Center
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Workshop for ages 6 – 10
Admission: $15; $10 Members
Dive in to our costume trunk and explore fun theatre games, playwriting, improv and more in the Bravo! theatre exhibition. A staff-supervised lunch time and break is available for participants who sign up for both Wednesday workshops. Please bring a peanut-free lunch. Please call to learn more about this offer.
Please register with the contact person for this event. Visitor Service: 203-259-1598
This event is accessible to people with disabilities.
For More Information: Fairfield Museum and History Center; 370 Beach Road, Fairfield CT, 06824; 203-259-1598 http://www.fairfieldhistory.org
Danny Magic Presented by Fairfield Parks and Recreation
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Start: 12:30
Free Admission
Be amazed by Danny Magic on Thursday, February 23, 2012 at 12:30 pm in the gymnasium of Roger Ludlowe Middle School! This is a must-see Magic Show and Slapstick Comedy that is amazing and amusing for all ages! Doors open 20 minute prior to show time. Thursday, 2/23
For More Information: Fairfield Parks & Recreation Department ; 75 Mill Plain Road, Fairfield, CT 06824; (203) 256-3191; http://cal.fairfieldct.org/; recsupport@town.fairfield.ct.us
American Girl Afternoon at The Fairfield Museum and History Center
Thursday, February 23, 2012
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Workshop for ages 8 – 12
Materials Fee: $30; $25 Members
Pre-registration suggested.
Explore the history and adventures of the historical American Girl dolls, including the new pair from New Orleans, Marie-Grace Gardner and Cécile Rey, who lived in 1853. Learn about the fascinating culture of New Orleans and the French traditions that were adapted in America. We’ll make Mardi Gras masks, inspired by a fancy masquerade ball in the storybooks. Find out about the delicious foods popular in New Orleans and create a delicious snack!
Please register with the contact person for this event. Visitor Service: 203-259-1598
This event is accessible to people with disabilities.
For More Information: Fairfield Museum and History Center; 370 Beach Road, Fairfield CT, 06824; 203-259-1598 http://www.fairfieldhistory.org
Winter Back in Time at The Fairfield Museum and History Center
Friday, February 24, 2012
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Grades 3-6
Materials Fee: $30; $25 Members
Registration strongly suggested.
Discover how boys and girls spent the dark days of winter in the colonial days. Participants will get the chance to try on period costume and write their own stories with a quill and ink. We will also prepare a recipe inspired from time past.
Please register with the contact person for this event. Visitor Service: 203-259-1598
This event is accessible to people with disabilities.
For More Information: Fairfield Museum and History Center; 370 Beach Road, Fairfield CT, 06824; 203-259-1598 http://www.fairfieldhistory.org
Rapunzel at The Fairfield Museum and History Center
Friday, February 24, 2012
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Presented by Purple Rock Productions
$7 adults, $5 children. Free for children 3 and under.
In this wild and wacky adaptation of the classic tale, an old washerwoman tells the story of Rapunzel, who is very clever in this version. She has learned a few tricks from the witch, especially how to “sing” things to grow. She is able to “sing” a boat into existence in order that she and the Prince can get away on the ocean. The washer woman tells the story using a variety of household objects, as well as puppets. The audience is encouraged to participate in creating the story.
Please register with the contact person for this event. Visitor Service: 203-259-1598
This event is accessible to people with disabilities.
For More Information: Fairfield Museum and History Center; 370 Beach Road, Fairfield CT, 06824; 203-259-1598 http://www.fairfieldhistory.org
Winter Wonderland Children’s Ball at Stepping Stones Museum
Saturday, Feb 25th
6:00 pm-8:30 pm
Admission: $12, $10 members
Calling all little princes and princesses! Dress up in your finest, make a crown, learn ballroom moves from the experts and pose for the paparazzi on this magical evening for the whole family.
Register online or call 203 899 0606, ext. 264.
For More Information: Stepping Stones; 303 West Avenue, Norwalk, CT; 203-899-0606 X2 alesia@steppingstonesmuseum.org; http://www.steppingstonesmuseum.org/
Dinosaur Days: Our Annual Celebration of Paleontology!
Yale Peabody Museum
February 20-24, 2012
10:00 AM-3:30 PM
Enjoy Dinosaur crafts and activities. Meet paleontologists. Dig for fossils. Puppet show daily at 1:00 PM.
For More Information: www.peabody.yale.edu; 170 Whitney Ave., New Haven, CT
Fireworks for the Fourth!
Bridgeport
SkyBlast Party and Fireworks
July 3rd
Seaside Park
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Darien
July 3rd (Rain date July 5th)
Darien High School
9:15/Sundown
Fairfield
July 4th
Jennings Beach
Sundown
New Canaan
New Canaan Family 4th
July 4th
Waveney Park
5 p.m. Event begins
9:30 p.m. Fireworks begin
Norwalk
July 3rd (Rain date July 5th)
Shady Beach
Dusk
Orange
July 1st (Rain date July 2nd)
Orange Fairgrounds
7:00 pm- Concert begins
Stratford
July 3rd (Rain date July 5th)
Short Beach
7:00 p.m. Concert begins
9:30 p.m. Fireworks begin
Weston
July 4th
Weston Middle School Field
4:30 p.m. Gates open
9:20 p.m. Fireworks begin
Westport
July 1st (Rain date July 5th)
Compo Beach
Sundown
Wilton
July 4th
Wilton High School
SundownSee More
