Litchfield

New Exhibits at Litchfield Historical Society

Litchfield Historical Society
An opening reception for the new exhibit, “Litchfield Through a Lens: The Photography of Neal Benedict,” takes place Friday, April 18, at 6 p.m. at the Litchfield History Museum, where guests will see Litchfield through the eyes of a late 1800s photographer.

The new exhibit explores rare views of town and the growth of photography as a business and hobby.

The reception is free and open to the public. RSVPs are requested by phone at 860-567-4501 or online here.

There’s also a Litchfield Through a Lens Walking Tour at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 19, which is free as part of opening weekend for the Litchfield Historical Society’s new season. Registration in advance is requested

Walking tour guests will be able to compare Litchfield as captured by photographs from the 1800s to the town today – from buildings that are long forgotten to familiar facades. Walking tours each last about 1 hour. Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a bottle of water.

The Litchfield Historical Society‘s museums, the Litchfield History Museum and Tapping Reeve House and Litchfield Law School, officially open for the new season this Saturday, April 19.

Hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free.

The other new exhibit at the history museum is Litchfield Remembers, The American Bicentennial & Beyond.

Meanwhile, the Tapping Reeve House and Litchfield Law School takes visitors on a journey through the 19th century life of a real student who came to Litchfield for an education at the Litchfield Law School or the Litchfield Female Academy.

See the historical society website for more and the calendar of events for everything that’s happening.

Litchfield is feeling autumn in the air.

Fall Preview: Six Litchfield Experiences Not to Miss

The heat and humidity of summer eased suddenly, the air turned crisper, the light softened, and sunsets began to arrive noticeably earlier. The days are still warm, but there’s a hint of autumn in the air, making it a perfect time to mark the calendar for signature autumn experiences in Litchfield.

Here are six annual events and rituals we love. See our Visit Litchfield CT calendar for lots of other great events and activities.

White Memorial Family Nature Day

Family Nature Day is a wonderful tradition at the White Memorial Conservation Center. The flier for this year’s event says it all.

Litchfield Historical Society Walking Tours

The Litchfield Historical Society’s weekly walking tours, which begin at 1 p.m. each Saturday at the Litchfield History Museum and last about an hour, are a perfect way to explore the town’s celebrated Historic District and discover Litchfield’s vibrant history, including the stories behind famous landmarks, anecdotes about past residents, and an appreciation of prominent buildings.

The tours are free for historical society members and $10 for non-members. Head to the historical society’s calendar page for details on the Saturday tours and registration – and keep an eye out as October approaches for the special Lantern Tour of Litchfield Historic District that features the town’s most frightening and gruesome true stories.

Fall Foliage Hikes

Litchfield has a wealth of parks, forests, and preserved land with wonderful hiking trails, all of them lovely in fall foliage season. Here’s a sampling:

White Memorial Foundation has 4,000 acres of preserves in Litchfield and Morris with 40 miles of trails. The most popular is the Little Pond Boardwalk Trail, an elevated 1.2-mile boardwalk around Little Pond. Another gem is the trail leading up to Apple Hill in Morris, overlooking Bantam Lake. White Memorial offers a series of guided hikes and many other events. Head to the website for the calendar, info on the nature museum, and trail maps.

Topsmead State Forest (510 acres) has trails through open meadows and woodlands. Once the summer home of Edith Morton Chase, the property is anchored by her English Tudor style cottage, which is open for free tours on the 2nd and 4th weekends of each month through Columbus Day. (See the separate listing.) Also see the Friends of Topsmead State Forest website to connect.

Mt. Tom State Park, off Route 202 near the Washington line, has a great all-season hike up to a stone tower with panoramic western views. Trail maps are on the website.

The Litchfield Hills Audubon Society’s Boyd Woods Sanctuary on Route 254 east of Litchfield center has more than four miles of trails on the 106-acre sanctuary along Wigwam Brook. Details and a trails map are on the website.

Litchfield Land Trust preserves include the 340-acre Prospect Mountain Preserve with 4.3 miles of trails and summit views to the west/southwest, among others. Connect with the preserves on the Trust’s website.

The Litchfield Community Greenway is also a great walk in any season. See the trail map.

17th Annual Harvest Bounty Festival

The 17th Annual Harvest Bounty Festival at Litchfield Community Center takes place Oct. 5 from 2 to 6 p.m. and features beverage tastings of craft beers and spirits made in Connecticut, as well as live music, fire pits, and lawn games.

Craft beer & spirits tastings to be offered (as of August 21) include:

Litchfield Distillery The Mobile Pub 5th State Distillery Owl’s Brew

Back East New England Brewing Co. Two Roads Reverie

Watson Farmhouse Brewing Alvarium Half Full Little Red Barn

Woodbury Brewing Co. New England Cider Co.

Food will be available for purchase from Bill’s Mobile Pizza, La Guera Mexican Food Truck, and Brits Brand sweet & meat treats. Dim Lights, Thick Smoke, and Mikey, Matt & Co. will provide the live music.

The Harvest Bounty Festival will be held rain or shine; outside under a tent if it’s nice or indoors if there is inclement weather. The cost is $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Admission is $15 for designated drivers. Children (14 & under) & leashed dogs get free admission.

Topsmead Cottage Tours

The free tours of Miss Edith’s cottage at Topsmead State Forest, which began in June, continue each second and fourth weekend of the month through Oct. 13.

That means the remaining tours for this season will be offered Aug. 24 & 25, Sept. 14 & 15, 28 & 29, and Oct. 12 and 13.

Tours, which feature Miss Edith’s collection of art and antiques, are first-come, first-served, start at noon, and run for 30 minutes, with the last tour taking place at 4:30 p.m. Meet at the front door of the cottage.

Donations are appreciated to support maintenance of cottage and the gardens, courtesy of Friends of Topsmead State Forest.

When you visit, make a cottage tour the highlight of a larger discovery.

The 510 acres of forests and meadows at Topsmead are open year-round for passive recreation including walking, picnicking, bird watching, sledding, and cross-country skiing. Don’t miss the Edith Chase Ecology Trail, a mile-long walk with interpretive signs.

Topsmead, located on Buell Road off Route 118, is open to visitors from 8 a.m. to sunset. Dogs on a leash are welcome, but open fires & grills are not allowed.

Scarecrows in the Meadow

The Litchfield Historical Society’s annual Scarecrows in the Meadow display in the Tapping Reeve Meadow has to be one of the best harvest and Halloween season events in the state – if not the entire Northeast.

The 5th Annual Scarecrows in the Meadows will be open to the public every day from dawn to dusk from Oct. 19 through Nov. 3 and will feature more than 50 funny, creative, or spooky scarecrows created by local families, students, businesses, and nonprofits.

Registration for the 5th Annual Scarecrows in the Meadow for returning participants is already open and those who want to participate can download the 2024 Participation Packet: 2024 Scarecrows in the Meadow Participant Information

The historical society launches the festivities with an opening celebration (stay tuned for details), and visitors get to vote for their favorites in many categories, with awards handed out based on the results.

Watch the historical society’s Scarecrows in the Meadow page for updates.

The Tapping Reeve Meadow is located at 82 South St., behind the historical society’s Tapping Reeve House and Litchfield Law School museum, open to the pubic with free admission.

Road Race, Fireworks … It’s a Jam-Packed June in Litchfield

So many great things are happening in Litchfield in June that in highlighting 10 of them here, we don’t even scratch the surface. Stay tuned to our Latest Intel page for more as the month deepens, and check the Events Calendar often so you don’t miss out.

June 1, Connecticut Trails Day

Two Litchfield hikes are part of the Connecticut Forest & Park Association‘s CT Trails Day weekend, one revealing the mining history of the Litchfield Land Trust Prospect Mountain Preserve, and the other along White Memorial’s Lake Trail to visit the old ice house ruins and then over to Butternut Brook in search of otter tracks, beaver signs, the calls of frogs, and more.

At this point, only a few spots remain for Prospect Mountain hike, so act fast. There’s more availability for the White Memorial hike – and there are many other hikes in the region and state to connect with. See the full list on the event map here: https://trailsday.org.

June 1, Learn to Row Day

The Litchfield Hills Rowing Club, Litchfield Park and Recreation, and Meraki invite all curious people ages 12 and older to a free learn to row event and open house at the rowing club on Bantam Lake – though the reserved time slots are full at this point.

Walk-ups are welcome between 9 a.m. and noon, and the rowing club will do its best to get everyone in a boat – or you can also attend just to visit the Meraki food truck, admire the boats, watch the action, and enjoy the lake and town beach area.

See the website to learn more about the rowing club, located off North Shore Road.

Beginning June 8-9, Cottage Tours at Topsmead State Forest

The free tours of Miss Edith Morton Chase’s cottage at Topsmead State Forest resume for the 2024 season on June 8 and 9 and are offered on the second and fourth weekend of each month through October.

Tours of the cottage, featuring Miss Edith’s collection of art and antiques, are led by Friends of Topsmead State Forest docents. They are first come-first served and run every half-hour from noon to 4:30 p.m. Guests meet at the front door of the cottage.

When you visit, make a cottage tour the highlight of a larger discovery.

Topsmead, located on Buell Road off Route 118, is open to visitors from 8 a.m. to sunset. Dogs on a leash are welcome, but open fires & grills are not allowed.

June 8, Made in East Litchfield Open House/Exhibit

To highlight and showcase the artists, artisans, and makers who live (or have lived) in the village, the East Litchfield Village Improvement Society (ELVIS) is holding a free open house and exhibit at the 1868 East Litchfield Chapel (62 East Litchfield Road South.)

On June 8, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., ELVIS will host an exhibit of art, artifacts, and home goods made in East Litchfield. The exhibit will feature Native American artifacts found in East Litchfield, stained glass works and a MOMIX costume by Phoebe Katzin, pottery by Kristin Gallagher, metal sculpture by Asa Hall, fine furniture by Troy Brook Visions, a fire grate by Grate Wall of Fire, hand-hooked rugs, and paintings by artists including Austin Purves, Jr., Nancy Roman and Rob Nadeau (whose painting RockenMutter is shown here).

To learn more about ELVIS, whose mission is to preserve, protect and enhance the community of East Litchfield, see the website and the Facebook page. Correspondence and questions may be emailed to [email protected].

June 8 & 9, Block Party and Litchfield Hills Road Race

Always held on the second Sunday in June, the Litchfield Hills Road Race, begins at 1 p.m. on Sunday, June 9, with the awards ceremony taking place on the Green at approximately 2:45 p.m.

Covering a 7-mile course with the grueling Gallows Hill toward the end, the race draws elite athletes from around the world, and the separate children’s races are popular and fun.

Registration continues until 12:45 on the day of the race. Look for road race booklets around town with all the race details, and follow @litchfieldhillsroadrace on Instagram for up-to-date notices.

The the Town of Litchfield CT Parks and Rec department throws a block party with a band from 7 to 10 p.m. in the Litchfield center on the Saturday evening before race day that’s always fun.

See the road race website for more.

June 21, Litchfield Land Trust’s Station Celebration

The Litchfield Land Trust (LLT) will celebrate the formal opening of its headquarters and nonprofit hub at The Station, 28 Russell Street, in an event June 21, from 4 to 6 p.m.

The public is invited to join land trust members, government officials, and others in visiting the building and offices, and enjoying refreshments and live music.

The community of nonprofit organizations at The Station includes the LLT, Litchfield Hills Audubon Society, Friends of the Litchfield Greenway, Litchfield Housing Trust, and Rivers Alliance of CT.

The event is sponsored by the Litchfield Land Trust. RSVPs are appreciated by June 15 at [email protected] or 860-361-9610.

For more information on the LLT, visit LitchfieldLandTrust.org.

June 22, Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy Annual Benefit

The Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy is holding its biggest fundraising effort of the year June 22 under a tent in the middle of the conservancy surrounded by more than 90 species of birds. Tickets are $175 for the event that goes from 6 to 10 p.m.

The Conservancy was founded by S. Dillon Ripley, a former Secretary of the Smithsonian, as a breeding facility for rare species, and an education center for conservationists.

Beginning June 28, Community Center Concert Series

The Litchfield Community Center’s series of FREE summer concerts begins June 28 with a show from 7 to 9 p.m. featuring Dim Lights, Thick Smoke.

Here’s the full lineup:

6/28 – Dim Lights, Thick Smoke
Food: Bill’s Mobile Pizza
For details and to register:
https://thecommunitycenter.org/event.php?id=19029

7/18 – Sperry Creek
Food: BYO picnic and enjoy S’mores at the Firepit
For details and to register:
https://thecommunitycenter.org/event.php?id=19033

8/9 – Hot Cat Jazz Band
Food: BYO picnic and enjoy the Ice Cream Sundae Bar
For details and to register:
https://thecommunitycenter.org/event.php?id=19034

9/6 – Alpaca Gnomes

Food: Meraki’s Food Truck
For details and to register:
https://thecommunitycenter.org/event.php?id=19035

Litchfield Fireworks & Cornhole Tournament

Go to the Park & Recreation website to register and get parking passes for the celebration.

Litchfield’s Popular Restaurant Week Returns March 22-29

Litchfield Restaurant Week returns for a second delicious year March 22-29.

More than 20 restaurants participated in the first restaurant week last year, including many that recently scooped up statewide awards from Connecticut Magazine and the Connecticut Restaurant Association.

This year’s Restaurant Week will again feature a three-course prix fixe menu at either $25, $35, or $45 price points – which means the destinations for those dining out will range from bakery-cafes and delis to pizza places, gourmet shops, and fine dining establishments.

And food isn’t the only draw for those with discerning palates. Last year, Litchfield Distillery donated a bottle of its spirits to each participating restaurant that featured a cocktail or food item incorporating those award-winning spirits.

Visit Litchfield CT is the official source of news and updates about Litchfield Restaurant Week, which is sponsored by the Town of Litchfield CT Economic Development Commission.

An official Restaurant Week page featuring each participating restaurant’s menus will be published on the Visit Litchfield CT website in March.

Watch for updates on the Visit Litchfield CT Facebook page and Instagram feed, and head to the bottom of the website home page and sign up for the Visit Litchfield CT weekly newsletter so you don’t miss anything.

Last year’s inaugural Restaurant Week was covered widely by CT media, including a visit by Melissa Cole of WFSB – Channel 3 Eyewitness News. You can watch her Great Day Connecticut story here.

Email any Restaurant Week questions or notes to [email protected], and when the time comes tag your dining out photos @VisitLitchfieldCT and @LitchfieldRestaurantWeek.

Top Restaurants 2024, Connecticut Magazine

Lots of Litchfield on CT Mag’s 2024 Top Restaurants List

Litchfield is very well represented on Connecticut Magazine’s new 2024 list of top restaurants in the state, as chosen by the magazine’s dining experts.

Arethusa al tavolo, Materia Ristorante and Winvian Farm (just over the Morris line) are honored for Overall Excellence, among other awards.

Materia and Winvian were also honored in the Most Romantic category.

Materia earned Best Italian honors as well, and Winvian was among the restaurants singled out for Best Wine Selection.

Arethusa, which also scored Best New American, Best Appetizers, Best Desserts, and Best Wine Selection listings, was also recent featured on CBS Mornings with Jeff Glor. Here’s a link to the segment: https://www.cbsnews.com/the-dish/

Other Litchfield restaurants praised for excellence by Connecticut Magazine’s dining experts include:

The Village Restaurant for Best Traditional American
West Street Grill for Best New American and Best Lunch
At The Corner for Best New American and Best Beer List
ATC South St. for Best Tacos
West Shore Seafood for Best Seafood and Best Lobster Rolls
Petraroia Deli for Best Deli/Sandwich Shop
Meraki for Best Lunch, Hidden Gem, and Best Deli/Sandwich Shop
Gooseboro Drive-In LLC. for Best Hot Dogs

The Connecticut Magazine honors follow other recent top awards.

In early December, David DiStasi of Materia was named Connecticut Chef of the Year in the Connecticut Restaurant Association‘s CRAZIES Awards 2023, and Materia won Restaurant of the Year Award for Litchfield County

Arethusa al tavolo was a CRAzies finalist for Litchfield County Restaurant of the Year.

At The Corner was a finalist for Litchfield County Restaurant of the Year.

Litchfield Distillery was a finalist for Vendor of the Year.

Ryan Pelletier of West Street Grill was a finalist for Bartender of the Year.

And Shannon Ciralli, who can sometimes be found at Market Place Tavern at The Old Litchfield Jail was a finalist for Bartender of the Year.

Four First Day Hikes in Litchfield to Welcome 2024

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) doesn’t have a hike scheduled in Litchfield this year as part of First Day Hikes, a nationwide initiative to get outdoors via guided hikes in state parks and forests – so we thought we would highlight four of our favorite hikes in Litchfield that represent a perfect way to welcome 2024.

Point Folly on Bantam Lake (short, easy walking)

White Memorial’s Point Folly Family Campground, with 47 sites, is open from May through Columbus Day, and during that stretch it’s the domain of registered campers – but in off-season, the lasso-shaped dirt access road takes on a new role as one of the best short hikes in Litchfield.

It’s flat, easy walking (suitable for families with children and even all-terrain strollers), and Point Folly juts out into Bantam Lake, so you’re surrounded by water, views, beauty, and wildlife the entire time.

There’s a viewing platform near the beginning of the walk looking east and north into the protected cove where the lake drains into the Bantam River outlet. It’s a prime spot for migrating ducks, and if you’re lucky you might also see the lake’s resident bald eagles.

There’s a dirt parking area at the entrance to the campground, a smaller adjacent parking area along North Shore Road, and another place to park next to the campground store a short distance away.

For GPS, use the address 123 N Shore Rd, Bantam, CT 06750.

(Fortunately, with 4,000 acres and roughly 40 miles of trails, White Memorial offers lots of other great options. See the Trail Maps page to explore.)

Topsmead State Forest (varying distances, easy)

Topsmead State Forest was once the summer home of Miss Edith Morton Chase, and the old dirt access roads and lanes are now enchanting four-season walking trails that complement the Red Trail through Topsmead’s meadows.

There’s also the Edith Chase Ecology Trail through the woods and the Yellow Trail that edges a pretty pond and takes visitors through a cathedral of pines. Check out the trail map to plan a route.

Miss Edith came from a prominent and wealthy Waterbury family. Her father, Henry Sabin Chase, ran Chase Brass and Copper Company. He gave her 16 acres on Jefferson Hill in Litchfield in 1917 and the 1925 cottage was designed by noted architect Richard Henry Dana, Jr.

When Miss Edith died in 1972, she left the estate, which had grown to 511 acres, to the state “for the pleasure and enjoyment of the people of Connecticut.” Her landmark Tudor-style cottage is open for free guided tours on the second and fourth weekends of each month from June through Columbus Day weekend in October.

See the map for directions.

Mt. Tom State Park (moderately rugged hike)

Mt. Tom State Park actually spans three towns, Litchfield, Morris, and Washington. In warm weather, it’s a great spot for swimming, boating, fishing, and picnicking – and all year-round the draw for hikers is a fairly rugged half-mile climb up to a stone observation tower that offers panoramic views to the west and southwest.

See the trails map to get started, and see this map for location and the entry point to the park, which has ample parking.

Prospect Mountain, Litchfield Land Trust
(difficulty & distance vary)

The Litchfield Land Trust’s 340-acre Prospect Mountain Preserve and its roughly 4.3 miles of trails are located less than 10 minutes from Bantam center off Cathole or Prospect Mountain roads – so it’s hidden in one sense but also close by and easy to access.

For one great hike, follow Blue Trail from Cathole Road to pass remnants of nickel mining operations and reach the summit, which at an elevation of 1,350 offers a long vista to the west/southwest.

Four First Day Hikes in Litchfield to Welcome 2024: Prospect Mtn. — Litchfield Land Trust photo of the overlook at Prospect Mtn.

For a shorter, less challenging walk, head to Prospect Mountain Road and the loop around Granniss Pond, a little less than a mile long and easy walking.

Check out the trail maps for access points.

For more hikes in Litchfield, also see:
10 Great Fall Foliage Walks in Litchfield, Autumn 2022

Autumn Events in Litchfield: Brewfest, Corn Maze, Scarecrows …

Autumn is glorious time to spend time in Litchfield, walking the trails and admiring the fall foliage, dining al fresco on warm days, picking pumpkins, and attending all the wonderful seasonal events. Here’s a rundown on some of the season’s highlights.

Bunnell Farm Corn Maze, Weekends 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

The corn maze at the landmark Bunnell Farm opened Labor Day Weekend and is open 1 to 5 p.m. on weekends through September, and then 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through October – with some special “flashlight nights” added in.

This year’s theme is Litchfield itself and farmer Rick Bunnell explained on Facebook that he put a lot of time into the design that celebrates landmarks including the First Congregational Church, the Litchfield Law School, and the former Litchfield County Courthouse (in the process of being converted into a boutique hotel). Adding to the fun, maze runners can search for the answers to six questions.

Check out the corn maze aerial video Bunnell posted to Facebook.

Bunnell Farm is located at 498 Maple St. For information: 860-567-9576 or [email protected].

Family Nature Day at White Memorial, 9/23, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

White Memorial’s annual Family Nature Day is one of the most popular and anticipated family events in Litchfield.

The 41^st annual version features a long list of great presenters. Brain Bradley will be here with his beautiful free-flying hawks and falcons. Riverside Reptiles’ Brian Kleinman is perhaps the greatest mind in reptiles in the state. Learn about North America’s only marsupial with Ferncroft Wildlife Rescue and their Opossum Ambassadors. Meet a Bald Eagle, Golden Eagle, and more with Horizon Wings Raptor Rehabilitation and Education Center.

Gerri Griswold, The Bat Lady (and White Memorial’s Director of Administration and Development) returns with Betty the Big Brown Bat, and the Stamford Museum and Nature Center presents Edible Insects. There will be music, guided nature walks, information booths, horse drawn wagon rides, and yummy food including the popular pie sale. There’s also an artisan market, and a silent auction that can be accessed online.

Litchfield Land Trust Fall Sunset Party, 9/29, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

The Litchfield Land Trust’s annual Fall Sunset Party is a fun evening of music and food to support the trust’s mission of preserving land in Litchfield and making special landscapes available to the public with a network of trails.

This year it’s being held in the Jenson Barn at the base of Prospect Mountain (one of the land trust’s marquee preserves).

The evening features live music by Dim Lights, Thick Smoke, food catered by Saltwater Grille, and wines and spirits from Gathering Harvests and Litchfield Distillery, including Litchfield Land Trust’s signature drink, The Easement.

There’s also a silent auction featuring art, gift certificates, jewelry, and more.

The cost per person is $85, or you can enhance your support by becoming a “Conservationist” for $250 and receive two complimentary tickets.

Hawk Watch at Topsmead State Forest, 10/7, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

A free Hawk Watch at Topsmead State Forest is being presented by the Friends of Topsmead State Forest in collaboration with the Litchfield Hills Audubon Society (LHAS) and Housatonic Valley Association (HVA).

Participants will gather at the Welcome Center at Topsmead. Ann Orsillo, an avid bird watcher and member of the Education Committee from the Litchfield Hills Audubon Society, will introduce and guide the hawk watch.

Participants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair, binoculars, and water. The hawk watch will be followed by refreshments, information about the collaborating organizations and a brief talk by Colleen Stradtman, President of the Friends of Topsmead State Forest. She will speak about the mission of the Friends of Topsmead and future plans.

16th Annual Harvest Bounty Brewfest, 10/7, 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

As of Sept. 13, Litchfield Community Center had 19 Connecticut craft brewers of beers, wine and spirits lined up for its annual Harvest Bounty Brewfest.

The brewfest also features two live bands, Dim Lights, Thick Smoke and Stache and three food vendors: I Know a Guy Deli & Food Truck, Rich’s Wings & Things and Brits Brand (scones and more).

There will be lawn games and fire pits at an event being held rain or shine. (There’s a large tent and the indoor atrium if weather is inclement.) Proceeds benefit the nonprofit Litchfield Community Center’s program and activities.

The list of participants (still growing) includes:

5th State Distillery ~ Athletic Brewing Company ~ Back East Brewing ~ Broad Brook Brewing ~ Charter Oak Brewing ~ Clocktown Brewing Co. ~ Evening Sky Brewing Co. ~ Half Full Brewery ~ Litchfield Distillery ~ Little Red Barn Brewers New England Brewing Co. ~ New England Cider Co. ~ Nineteen 70 Something Distillers ~ Owl’s Brew ~ Quirk Works Brewing & Blendery ~ Reverie Brewing ~ Two Roads Brewing Co.~ Watson Farmhouse Brewery ~ Woodbury Brewing Co.

Tickets are $30 in advance, $35 at the door and $15 for designated drivers. (A special glass guaranteed to the first 150 registrants.)

CJR Car Show, 10/8, 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

The Connecticut Junior Republic’s Cars for Kids show is one of the best vintage, classic, muscle and sports car shows of the season.

Spectator parking opens at 8 a.m. and admission is $5 per car. Judging takes place from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and more than 20 trophies will be awarded at 2:30 p.m.

Breakfast sandwiches, hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, and beverages will be sold. A bake sale will be conducted by The Litchfield Aid of CJR.

There also will be farm tours and hayrides and visitors may purchase autumn produce and products from CJR’s culinary arts, farm, wood shop, and other vocational classes.

Proceeds from this event will support CJR’s care, treatment and education services for children, youth, and families in locations throughout the state.

The show is sponsored by the Valley Collector Car Club and the Litchfield Hills Historical Automobile Club, and the media sponsor WZBG, 97.3 FM.

CJR is located at 550 Goshen Rd. For more information, call 860-567-9423, or visit CJR’s website. The rain date is Oct. 15.

Scarecrows in the Meadow

The Litchfield Historical Society’s 4^th Annual Scarecrows in the Meadow, a community event for families to celebrate the end of the harvest season, will be on display in the Tapping Reeve Meadow from Oct. 14 – 31 and open for visiting every day from dawn to dusk.

An Opening Celebration will be held Saturday, Oct. 14, from 1 – 3 p.m. in the Tapping Reeve Meadow. Everyone is invited to explore the assembly of more than 50 scarecrows created by local businesses, non-profits, and families. The Opening Celebration will feature a scarecrow-making challenge and storytelling with KidsPlay Children’s Museum, along with fall crafts and activities.

William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty sponsors Scarecrows in the Meadow.

This event is free and open to the public. The Tapping Reeve Meadow is located at 82 South St. For more information about the event or if you are interested in making a scarecrow (limited spots available), see the Scarecrows in the Meadow page on the historical society website.

Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy’s Grand Opening of Horse Show Meadow, 10/21, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy is holding a special grand opening event for its Horse Show Meadow with live demonstrations, food trucks, and more.

Ripley was founded by S. Dillon Ripley, a former Secretary of the Smithsonian. It’s home to more 80 species of birds from around the world, a breeding facility for rare species, and education center for conservationists.

Admission is $35 for adults and $15 for children 11 to 14. Children younger than 11 are admitted for free. Tickets are here and can also be purchased at Ripley the day of the event.

Explore White Memorial Peaks with Gerri Griswold, 10/28, 8 a.m.

This White Memorial guided hike will take guests up Windmill Hill, Wheeler Hill, Apple Hill (shown here), Laurel Hill, and Schermerhorn Hill.

The group of participants for the four-hour outing will drive from point to point and also discover some interesting features and (hopefully) signs of wildlife along the way.

Guests will meet in front of the A. B. Ceder Room at the White Memorial Conservation Center at 8 a.m. and are advised to dress for the weather, bring snacks and water, and wear sturdy hiking boots. The hike is free but Donations will be accepted to help defray the Conservation Center’s programming expenses.

Pre-register on White Memorial’s guided hikes page.

Last Weekend of August Is Packed with Fun in Litchfield

August The last weekend of August in Litchfield is filled with fun for families and those who love nature, history, antiques, and pancakes! Dig in and enjoy!

Magic Show & Brownie Contest, Friday, Aug. 25, at Noon

Litchfield Park & Rec is presenting the perfect family event to wrap summer before school is back in session, beginning at noon on Friday, Aug. 25. The fun begins with a Back to School Brownie Bakeoff and opportunity to meet Dani the Service Dog and her handler Kevin from Hartford Health Care – followed by a Magic Show featuring Justin Mazz. Ice cream and Popsicles will be served afterward.

(The event has been moved from Community Field to the gym at the former Bantam School, located at 80 Doyle Rd.)

Bantam Fire Company Pancake Supper, Saturday, Aug. 26, 5 – 7 p.m.

Who doesn’t love pancakes for dinner occasionally. The Bantam Fire Company is presenting a Pancake Supper this Saturday, Aug. 26 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the firehouse, located at 92 Doyle Rd. in Bantam center.

The supper features all you can eat eggs, potatoes, pancakes, breakfast sausages, and beverages. The cost is $9 for adults and children older than 10, and $5 for children 5 to 10. As part of the event, there’s a Touch a Truck for the kids.

Litchfield County Auctions Tag Sale, 8/24 – 8/26

Litchfield County Auctions is presenting a summer tag sale this Thursday through Saturday, Aug. 24 to 26, featuring books, clothes, cameras, vintage toys, games and trains, musical instruments, electronics, furniture, artwork, antiques and much more. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The auction gallery is located at 425 Bantam Rd. (Route 202). Call 860-567-4661 for more information.

Exploring Catlin Woods with Gerri Griswold, Saturday, Aug. 26, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Explore a beautiful old growth forest that’s part of White Memorial’s 4,000 acres of preserves in a guided walk with Director of Administration and Development Gerri Griswold on Saturday from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Untouched for over three centuries, Catlin Woods is the perfect destination to witness the succession of a forest. Besides a canopy composed of grand pines and hemlocks, this area also contains a diversity of ferns, lichens, and fungi. Bird lovers are drawn here in spring and summer to count the several thrush species that call this place home. The back end of the parcel dead-ends at Bantam River, where you can watch for beavers, waterfowl, or the occasional kayaker making his or her way up to Little Pond.

The guided hike is free but donations will be accepted to help defray the Conservation Center’s programming expenses. Reserve your spot online.

Litchfield Historical Society Walking Tour, Saturday, 26

The Litchfield Historical Society’s weekly walking tour begins at 1 p.m. Saturday at the Litchfield History Museum and lasts about an hour. It’s a perfect way to explore the town’s celebrated Historic District and discover Litchfield’s vibrant history, including the stories behind famous landmarks, anecdotes about past residents, and an appreciation of prominent buildings.

The tour is free for historical society members and $10 for non-members . Those planning to attend are asked to register online.

Topsmead Cottage Tours, Saturday & Sunday, Aug. 26 + 27

Free tours of the English Tudor-style cottage at the 510-acre Topsmead State Forest are offered seasonally on the second and fourth weekends of each month from June through Columbus Day, which means tours this Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 26 & 27.

The charming cottage is decorated with Miss Edith Morton Chase’s collection of art and antiques, and the 45-minute docent-led tours are provided by @friendsoftopsmead beginning at noon and running on the hour and half hour.

The tours begin at noon each day and the last tour is offered at 4:30 p.m. Guests should meet a docent at the front door of the house. Each group is limited to eight people, first-come first-served.

The remaining tour dates for 2023 are Aug. 26 and 27, Sept. 9, 10, 23, and 24, and Oct. 14 and 15.

Family Fun in Litchfield for the Last 2 Weekends of August

Summer flew by and the back-to-school vibe is in the air, but there’s still plenty of family fun to be enjoyed in Litchfield to make the most of the last two weekends in August. Enjoy!

Family Carnival and Sunset Dance Party, Friday, Aug. 18, 4 – 9 p.m.

Weekend It doesn’t look like there’s rain in the forecast Friday evening, which means the previously postponed Family Carnival and Sunset Dance Party at Litchfield Community Center should be on!

The FREE festivities run from 4 to 9 p.m. and feature a bounce house, slide, carnival games, face painting, balloon animals, a rock wall, pizza, and a DJ Dance Party. (Parents/guardians are required to stay and supervise their child.)

Guests are asked to register online (or re-register if you registered for a date when the event was postponed).

White Memorial Star Party, Friday, Aug. 18 at 8 p.m.

Weekend The Litchfield Hills Amateur Astronomy Club and the Mattatuck Astronomical Society will present an astronomy program in the A. B. Ceder Room at the White Memorial Conservation Center at 8 p.m. Friday.

Weather permitting, there will be star gazing after the program. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. You are invited to bring your own telescope or binoculars. The Star Party is FREE; donations will be accepted to help defray the Conservation Center’s programming expenses.

Museum Children Free Week at White Memorial, through Aug. 23

Weekend The Nature Museum at the White Memorial Conservation Center may qualify for best-kept-secret status. Here’s your chance to make the discovery or a return visit. From Aug. 17 to Aug. 23, free admission is offered to children ages 12 and younger when accompanied by an adult (courtesy of Tara and Arthur Diedrick in honor of Ann and Arthur Diedrick). Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call the museum at (860) 567-0857 with questions or to learn more about the museum.

Free Anime Film at Bantam Cinema, Saturday, Aug. 19 at 11 a.m.

Weekend Bantam Cinema & Arts Center has been presenting free screenings of Studio Ghibli films this summer that are fun for the whole family. The last in the series is “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” being presented this Saturday at 11 a.m. The 1989 Japanese animated fantasy film chronicles the adventures of a 13-year-old witch in training, Kiki , who leaves home with black cat Jiji (who talks) and uses her broomstick to create a delivery service before problems arise that must be overcome. Learn more and reserve your spot on the Bantam Cinema website.

Litchfield Historical Society Walking Tour, Saturday, Aug. 19 + 26

The Litchfield Historical Society’s walking tours begins at 1 p.m. each Saturday at the Litchfield History Museum and last about an hour. It’s a perfect way to explore the town’s celebrated Historic District and discover Litchfield’s vibrant history, including the stories behind famous landmarks, anecdotes about past residents, and an appreciation of prominent buildings.

The tour is free for historical society members and $10 for non-members . Those planning to attend are asked to register online.

Magic Show & Brownie Contest, Friday, Aug. 25 at Community Field

Weekend Litchfield Park & Rec is presenting the perfect family event to wrap summer before school is back in session, beginning at noon on Friday, Aug. 25, at Community Field on North Lake Street. The fun begins with a Back to School Brownie Bakeoff and opportunity to meet Dani the Service Dog and her handler Kevin from Hartford Health Care – followed by a Magic Show featuring Justin Mazz. Ice cream and Popsicles will be served afterward.

Topsmead Cottage Tours, Saturday & Sunday, Aug. 26 + 27

The last tour is offered at 4:30 p.m. Guests should meet a docent at the front door of the house. Each group is limited to eight people, first-come first-served.

The remaining tour dates for 2023 are Aug. 26 and 27, Sept. 9, 10, 23, and 24, and Oct. 14 and 15.

Litchfield Harvest Season: Pumpkins, Apples, Hayrides & More

The fall foliage and autumn harvest season are peaking at the same time in Litchfield, making this the perfect weekend (and beyond) for a colorful walk in the woods and visits to our farms and farm stands for pumpkins, apples, hayrides, a corn maze, and more.

Make sure to check out the Farms & Farmers Markets page on the Visit Litchfield CT website (https://visitlitchfieldct.com/farms/), which includes a link to an interactive map showing the location of each farm and offering more details.

And see our blog post detailing 10 terrific walks and hikes for enjoying the autumn leaves (https://visitlitchfieldct.com/10-great-fall-foliage-walks-in-litchfield-autumn-2022/)

Bunnell Farm

This fifth generation farm in the rural and pretty Milton section of town is in its prime time for visitors, offering all the best autumn rituals:

* Pick your own pumpkins
* A professionally designed and cut corn maze (and children’s maze)
* Hay rides
* Fall gifts
* Hot dogs & more
+ pumpkin scones!

The perfect family destination, Bunnell Farm is open Saturdays and Sundays in October from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and weekday appointments can be scheduled.

524 Maple Street
(860) 567-9576

Litchfield Hills Farm-Fresh Market

Litchfield farm market, farms — Some recent vendors

The Litchfield Hills Farm-Fresh Market wraps up its outdoor season this Saturday, Oct. 15, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot on Woodruff Lane across Center School.

If you don’t go often, or haven’t discovered the bounty the market offers, this is the weekend to experience it in the glory of the autumnal harvest landscape.

As of 10/22, the market continues at Litchfield Community Center every Saturday through early June, 2023, when the outdoor season resumes. Watch the Facebook page for updates.

125 West Street
(market in parking lot on Woodruff Lane)

Chanticleer Acres

Lady Chanticleer, Litchfield farm, farms — Lady Chanticleer

Located on a rural road heading toward Milton, Chanticleer Acres is dedicated to regenerative no-till organic practices to produce a wide variety of non-GMO food, including heirloom vegetables, root vegetables, herbs and flowers. There’s also fresh eggs at the veggie hut, open daily from dawn until dusk. (We also saw pumpkins there recently.) It’s less than 10 minutes from the center of town.

Follow @Chanticleeracres on Facebook and Instagram for the latest.

51 Hutchinson Pkwy
(860) 361-9366

Winter Winds Farm

Winter Winds Farm has been offering weekend veggie bundles featuring the farm’s own ground beef, as well as things like zucchini, corn, summer squash, winter squash, peppers, beans, kale/Swiss chard, carrots, and more. The bundles go fast, so monitor the Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/NorthwestTree) for each weekend’s details. It’s a cash or check operation located on Route 63 a bit north of the historic district, and part of the Northwest Tree family. The farm also produces pumpkins and maple syrup.

426 Goshen Road
(Look for vegetable signs on Rte. 63 North and drive down the dirt driveway to the farm stand.)

Tara Farm

Located in Watertown, Tara Farm operates a seasonal farm stand along Route 202, offering tomatoes, corn, veggies, berries, pumpkins and more throughout the summer and into the fall.

433 Bantam Rd. (near Litchfield Auctions and Lostocco Auto Parts)
(860) 274-8147

Ox Hollow Farm Stand

Ox Hollow Farm Stand is located along Route 202 across from Mt. Tom Pond on the western edge of Litchfield and is open daily into November. If offers all-natural, pasture raised angus beef, pork, chicken, lamb, eggs and seasonal vegetables.

810 Bantam Rd.
(860) 567-0236

Scarecrows in the Meadow

Litchfield farm, farms — A witch scarecrow from the 2021 display

While you’re out visiting farms and farm stands, make sure to stop by the Litchfield Historical Society’s 3^rd annual Scarecrows in the Meadow display in the Tapping Reeve Meadow behind the Tapping Reeve House and Litchfield Law School on South Street.

The scarecrows will be on display from Oct. 15 through Oct. 31, and the meadow is open for visiting every day from dawn to dusk. All of the scarecrows are created by local businesses, non-profits, and families.

An Opening Celebration is scheduled this Saturday, Oct. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m., when the more than 50 scarecrows will make their formal debut. There also will be a scarecrow making contest, fall activities, and voting for guests’ favorite scarecrows. This event is free and open to the public, and no registration is necessary.

82 South St.
(860) 567-4501

Litchfield

White Memorial Family Nature Day

Litchfield Historical Society Walking Tours

Fall Foliage Hikes

17th Annual Harvest Bounty Festival

Topsmead Cottage Tours

Scarecrows in the Meadow

June 1, Connecticut Trails Day

June 1, Learn to Row Day

Beginning June 8-9, Cottage Tours at Topsmead State Forest

June 8, Made in East Litchfield Open House/Exhibit

June 8 & 9, Block Party and Litchfield Hills Road Race

June 21, Litchfield Land Trust’s Station Celebration

June 22, Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy Annual Benefit

Beginning June 28, Community Center Concert Series

Litchfield Fireworks & Cornhole Tournament

Point Folly on Bantam Lake (short, easy walking)

Topsmead State Forest (varying distances, easy)

Mt. Tom State Park (moderately rugged hike)

Prospect Mountain, Litchfield Land Trust (difficulty & distance vary)

For more hikes in Litchfield, also see:10 Great Fall Foliage Walks in Litchfield, Autumn 2022

Bunnell Farm Corn Maze, Weekends 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Family Nature Day at White Memorial, 9/23, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Litchfield Land Trust Fall Sunset Party, 9/29, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Hawk Watch at Topsmead State Forest, 10/7, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

16th Annual Harvest Bounty Brewfest, 10/7, 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

CJR Car Show, 10/8, 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Scarecrows in the Meadow

Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy’s Grand Opening of Horse Show Meadow, 10/21, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Explore White Memorial Peaks with Gerri Griswold, 10/28, 8 a.m.

Magic Show & Brownie Contest, Friday, Aug. 25, at Noon

Bantam Fire Company Pancake Supper, Saturday, Aug. 26, 5 – 7 p.m.

Litchfield County Auctions Tag Sale, 8/24 – 8/26

Exploring Catlin Woods with Gerri Griswold, Saturday, Aug. 26, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Litchfield Historical Society Walking Tour, Saturday, 26

Topsmead Cottage Tours, Saturday & Sunday, Aug. 26 + 27

Family Carnival and Sunset Dance Party, Friday, Aug. 18, 4 – 9 p.m.

White Memorial Star Party, Friday, Aug. 18 at 8 p.m.

Museum Children Free Week at White Memorial, through Aug. 23

Free Anime Film at Bantam Cinema, Saturday, Aug. 19 at 11 a.m.

Litchfield Historical Society Walking Tour, Saturday, Aug. 19 + 26

Magic Show & Brownie Contest, Friday, Aug. 25 at Community Field

Topsmead Cottage Tours, Saturday & Sunday, Aug. 26 + 27

Bunnell Farm

Litchfield Hills Farm-Fresh Market

Chanticleer Acres

Winter Winds Farm

Tara Farm

Ox Hollow Farm Stand

Scarecrows in the Meadow

Prospect Mountain, Litchfield Land Trust
(difficulty & distance vary)

For more hikes in Litchfield, also see:
10 Great Fall Foliage Walks in Litchfield, Autumn 2022