‘Blizzard’ of Holiday Events in Litchfield Part II
We published a post in early November previewing what we called a Litchfield holiday events “blizzard,” and the storm of seasonal fun hasn’t stopped. So, we figured Part II was in order.
’Twas In The Moon Of Wintertime – An Entwyned Early Music Christmas,
Dec. 14, 7 p.m., Oliver Wolcott Library
What better way to celebrate Christmas season and arrival of winter than with a live performance of beloved carols from around the world. Dee Hansen, Neil Humphreys, and Eric Hansen, collectively known as Entwyned, visit OWL to share a musical delight featuring 18th and 19th century familiar carols such as What Child is This, Good King Wenceslas, and Bring a Torch Jeanette Isabella.
With their beautiful historic instruments, they will also perform lesser-known pieces from the 13th through the 18th centuries that express the magic and mystery of the season.
Dee Hansen is a Professor Emeritus of Music Education at The Hartt School, University of Hartford and author of “100 Years of Hartt, A Centennial Celebration.” Neal Humphreys is an administrator and advisor for The Hartt School. He graduated from Hartt with his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Cello Performance. Eric Hansen is the retired Electronic Resources Coordinator for the Connecticut State Library. He performed as a professional bassist and lutenist in concerts and on recordings with nationally known musicians.
Register online or watch the event on Zoom.
The McKrells Live Holiday Concert, Dec. 15, 6:30 p.m., Litchfield Community Center
The McKrells
return to the Litchfield Community Center Dec. 15 for another holiday concert featuring Celtic-infused bluegrass that includes traditional and original songs, holiday stories, and more. Singer/songwriter Kevin McKrell leads the band that also features Frank Orsini on fiddle, Scott Hopkins on banjo, Peter Pashoukas on guitar, Arlin Greene on bass, and Brian Melick on percussion.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the music starts at 7 for this BYOB and food event. Admission is $20 per person, and $10 per person for those 12 and younger. Click here for details and registration.
Jingle & Mingle (and Shop) with LHS Executive Director Jessica Jenkins,
Dec. 16, 1 to 5 p.m. at J. McLaughlin
Jingle, mingle, and finish off that holiday shopping while supporting the Litchfield Historical Society at J. McLaughlin on West Street, which is hosting a special holiday shopping event Dec. 16, from 1 to 5 p.m., with 15% of sales benefiting the historical society.
LHS Executive Director Jessica Jenkins will be there, and shoppers will include a signed copy of her book “The House of Worth: Fashion Sketches, 1916-1918” with every purchase (while supplies last!)
Two more Bantam Fire Company holiday events are coming up this weekend!
Wreaths Across America, Dec. 16, noon, All Wars Memorial, Bantam
Breakfast With Santa, Northfield Fire Company, Dec. 17, 7:30 – 10:30 a.m.
The Northfield Fire Company is having breakfast with Santa this Sunday, Dec. 17, from 7:30 – 10:30 a.m. Choose from pancakes, French toast, and eggs, along with bacon, sausage, and home fries. All orders are cooked to order. The cost for adults is $10, and for children, $5. The address is 12 Knife Shop Rd. in the Northfield section of town.
Annual Christmas Bird Count 4Kids, Dec. 17, 11 a.m., White Memorial
Join the Litchfield Hills Audubon Nature Explorers in counting winter birds by sight, using binoculars, sound, and the Merlin App. Participate in the 124th Christmas Bird Count and enjoy pizza and beverages after the count. Participants should meet at White Memorial Carriage House, dress warmly, and bring binoculars if you have a pair. (some will be available).
A Christmas Carol Live, Dec. 17, 3 p.m., Litchfield Community Center
Join actors Stephen Collins and Poornima Kirby for a funny, heartfelt journey through Charles’ Dickens classic, “A Christmas Carol.”
This one-hour adaptation shows Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from a grumpy, selfish misanthrope to a generous, wise, and kindly man, full of the spirit of Christmas. With Stephen playing Scrooge and Poornima swiftly changing between the other characters, this fast-paced, playful adaptation keeps the beauty and humor of Dickens’ original text, interspersed with melodious Christmas carols, and even a lively English folk dance.
The performance is free, but donations are welcome. Guests should pre-register online.
Holiday Arrangement Class With Rex Rogers, Dec. 21, 4 p.m.
The Litchfield Inn is hosting floral stylist Rex Rogers for a workshop in which you will create your own arrangement in to impress holiday guests. He will guide you and share his expert tips and tricks for crafting a stunning piece utilizing seasonal greens and a handcrafted pot by @benwolffpottery. This class experience will include all essential materials, tools, hors d’oeuvres, and a selection of wines, promising a delightful and memorable evening. The cost is $120 per person. Click here to register.
A Holiday Stroll Up Apple Hill with Gerri Griswold, Dec. 23, 10 a.m.
White Memorial says the Dec. 23 guided hike up Apple Hill is “actually just an excuse to savor homemade scones, guzzle outlandishly rich hot chocolate, and share friendship at the pinnacle of one of our most beautiful trails.” The event is limited to 12 guests. Please pre-register by calling 860-567-0857 or register online. The hike is free, but donations will be accepted to help defray the Conservation Center’s programming expenses.