Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of WIN with Music, Art, Nature, and Family Fun!

This year marks a milestone 10th anniversary of the Weekend in Norfolk (WIN) celebration, and the town is pulling out all the stops!  From Friday, August 1, through Sunday, August 3, the whole town is coming alive with a vibrant mix of activities, entertainment, and community spirit. Whether you're a longtime local or first-time visitor, this is your chance to dive into everything that makes Norfolk special.

One of the biggest highlights is the brand-new Sidewalk Sunday, taking place from 12 noon to 5 pm at Robertson Plaza. The plaza will be bustling with energy as a diverse mix of local organizations, artists, and authors showcase their creations and share their passions. With the street closed to traffic, it’s a safe and welcoming space for families to enjoy live music, delicious bites from local favorites like the Berkshire Country Store and Norfolk Pub, and the vibrant community spirit that makes this WIN so special.

Music lovers are in for a treat, as free performances abound all weekend long. From Friday night's concert on the Green featuring Pat Attanasio to multiple Saturday showcases including the Emerging Artists at the Music Shed and popular local acts like the Grantville Dawgs and the Carol & Nick Jazz Duo, there’s something for every musical taste. Sunday rounds out the musical offerings with performances by Elias Neuman-Donihue, Julia Autumn Ford, and Mike Cobb at Robertson Plaza, plus a free children’s concert at the Music Shed.

Discover the beauty and wonder of nature with WIN’s unforgettable outdoor experiences. Join a guided birding walk through the scenic Barbour Woods, or dive into 90 years of climate history at Great Mountain Forest’s historic weather station, where science meets storytelling. Whether you're a curious explorer or a nature enthusiast, you'll uncover how past weather data is shaping modern forecasting. 

Prefer to take things at your own pace? Stroll through Connecticut’s most charming Historic District on a self-guided walking tour, where centuries-old architecture whispers stories of the past. Or, if you’re craving adventure, explore Norfolk's many trails and experience the raw, rugged beauty of the local landscape. Whatever your style, there’s a path waiting for you.

Families with children will find plenty to engage young minds and bodies, from a West African music and dance workshop with award-winning artist Iddi Saaka at the Norfolk Library, to Sunday morning yoga and meditation on the Village Green. And don’t miss the hands-on art and water play at Bottelle School, where kids can craft their own masks and cool off under a fire truck’s refreshing spray!

Step back in time at the Norfolk Historical Society's new exhibit, "A New Birth of Freedom: Norfolk in the Civil War." This captivating display delves into the town's role leading up to and during the Civil War, highlighting the brave individuals who fought to preserve the Union. On Saturday, August 2, history buffs can further enrich their experience with a guided tour of Center Cemetery, led by Barry Webber, the Society’s executive director.

For fishing enthusiasts, join expert fisherman Doug McDevitt, who is offering fly fishing seminars perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. With personalized instruction limited to five participants per session on Saturday and Sunday, you’ll receive hands-on guidance in the art of Spey casting, courtesy of equipment provided by Orvis of Avon.  Nature lovers can also enjoy a peaceful Sunday stroll, August 3, through two private gardens linked by beautifully designed pathways and lush shade plantings—a serene escape for any garden enthusiast.

Meanwhile, cultural explorers will want to stop by the Connecticut Asia Cultural Center on Saturday, August 2, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for its annual festival. Visitors will be treated to immersive exhibits on Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian, Christian, and Inca cultures, along with vibrant performances like the Tai Chi Fan Dance. Enjoy a complimentary Asian lunch box, participate in a Dragon Boat Racers competition, and attend engaging seminars and a traditional tea ceremony.

This beloved event invites visitors to experience a rich tapestry of timeless activities, from heartfelt wedding vow renewals on the Green to captivating tours of Tiffany’s stained glass windows and the historic WhiteHouse. And of course, no community celebration is complete without cherished local traditions. 

Indulge in nostalgic delights like the blueberry Betty and ice cream social at Meadow Brook apartments on Saturday, or share in the joy of the children’s concert and ice cream social at the iconic Music Shed on the Battell estate on Sunday. Whether you're reliving cherished memories or creating new ones, Summer WIN offers something special for everyone — a true celebration of connection, heritage, and joy.

With most events free and spread conveniently around town, you can explore at your own pace and find something for every interest and age group. Don’t miss this unforgettable summer celebration—check out the full schedule at weekendinnorfolk.org 

Norfolk's Winter WIN: A Celebration of Music

 Norfolk’s enduring love affair with music finds a perfect expression at this year's Winter WIN, with a lineup of thrilling performances to warm up the winter chill. Whether you’re a fan of classical melodies or toe-tapping folk tunes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Start your Saturday, February 22, with a free concert at the Norfolk Library from 11 a.m. to 12 noon, featuring talented alumni from the Norfolk Festival and current Yale School of Music students. The ensemble—Michael Huerta (flute), Annie Winkelman (oboe), Nicole Martin (clarinet), Darius Farhoumand (bassoon), and Gretchen Berendt (horn)—will perform an enchanting program including Maurice Ravel's "Mother Goose Suite", Aram Khachaturian's "Masquerade Waltz", Malcolm Arnold's "Three Shanties", and Valerie Coleman's "Umoja". It’s an hour of musical brilliance you won't want to miss. 

The musical festivities continue at The Hub, at 2 Station Place, where Michael Cobb takes the stage from 12 noon to 2 p.m. Based in Norfolk and Brooklyn, N.Y., Cobb is a multi-talented artist who sings and plays a variety of instruments, including guitar, bass, harmonica, banjo, and ukulele. His unique eclectic Americana sound, blended with Spanish songs inspired by his wife, Martiña, promises a performance as diverse as it is engaging. 

To wrap up the day, stay at The Hub for a live performance by Seth Hagymasi from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Seth’s energetic mix of folk, bluegrass, and old-time country music, played on acoustic guitar and mandolin, is sure to get your feet tapping and your spirits soaring. 

Don’t forget to download your full Winter WIN schedule at Weekend in Norfolk at http://weekendinnorfolk.org  to explore even more events and activities during this festive weekend. Mark your calendars and join Norfolk in celebrating the joy of music this winter!

Embrace Winter Magic: Norfolk’s Weekend WIN is Alive with Fun for All Ages!

 When winter’s chill settles in, Norfolk, Connecticut, comes alive with warmth, creativity, and community spirit. On February 22 and 23, this charming town invites you to experience the highly anticipated Winter Weekend in Norfolk (WIN). Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a foodie, or an art lover, WIN promises an unforgettable celebration filled with activities for all ages. Best of all, most events are FREE and scattered throughout Norfolk’s picturesque surroundings—including the heart of the action at 2 Station Place. Get ready to embrace winter like never before! Explore the full schedule at https://weekendinnorfolk.org.

New This Year: Unique Experiences You Can’t Miss 

Looking to spice up your weekend plans? Norfolk has curated a lineup of exciting activities that promise fun, learning, and a touch of adventure. Whether you’re a fan of sports, nature, or unique workshops, there’s something for everyone! 

Start your day at the Pickleball Tournament, where the sport that’s taken the world by storm comes alive in the Botelle Elementary School gym. With matches scheduled at 8 a.m., 11 a.m., and 2 p.m., you can jump in as a player or cheer on the action from the sidelines. This friendly competition welcomes both seasoned players and curious first-timers! 

For those with a green thumb (or a fascination with fungi), don’t miss the Mushroom Inoculation Workshop at Husky Meadows Farm on Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. Learn the art of creating your own mushroom log under the guidance of an expert. It’s hands-on, educational, and comes with light refreshments to keep you fueled. 

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Wildlife Track Identification Walk with naturalist Andy Dobos. On Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., explore the snowy trails of Great Mountain Forest to uncover animal tracks and hear the fascinating stories of the local wildlife. It’s the perfect way to experience nature’s mysteries! 

On Sunday, from 4 to 6 p.m., the Norfolk Library will host a special book launch celebrating “The Norfolk Library: History, Culture, Community.” This richly illustrated new book explores the library’s unique role in the town’s history and cultural fabric—a fitting tribute to its enduring legacy. 

Kids of all ages, come have fun watching movies and listening to live music at the Norfolk Hub on Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. Films will be a mix of animated shorts from the Seattle Children’s Film Festival and selections from Disney. 

Finally, stop by the Norfolk Library on Saturday at 2 p.m. for the Beaverland Talk by author Leila Philip. Discover the incredible world of beavers, nature’s hardest-working architects, and learn non-lethal strategies for coexisting with these industrious creatures.

Sweet Delights for Your Taste Buds 

Kick off your day with a delicious pancake breakfast at the Icebox Café (10 Station Place), where every bite is drizzled with rich, golden maple syrup made fresh at Great Mountain Forest. Available on Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., this breakfast is the perfect way to fuel your weekend adventures. Don't forget to pair your pancakes with a discounted cup of chai tea—a warm, aromatic treat that completes the experience. 

And, if you are craving donuts swing by the Berkshire County Store. Simply show your WIN schedule to enjoy a special discount on their famous old-fashioned donuts, a local favorite that’s sure to delight. 

But wait—there’s even more sweetness in store! Great Mountain Forest invites you to their sugarhouse at 201 Windrow Road on Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. for a fascinating maple sugaring experience. Witness the magic of sap turning into syrup, learn the science behind the process, and immerse yourself in the tradition of maple production. Be sure to call ahead at 860-542-5422 to confirm there’s enough sap to boil for this unique and educational experience.

Perennial Favorites: Tried-and-True Fun 

Looking for activities that combine tradition, skill, and a touch of adventure? Start your weekend at the Fly-Tying & Fishing Workshop held at the Norfolk Hub (2 Station Place) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a curious beginner, this hands-on event is perfect for sharpening your skills, learning new techniques, and sharing fish tales with fellow enthusiasts. 

 If you’ve ever dreamed of gliding a stone across the ice like an Olympian, visit the Norfolk Curling Club at 70 Golf Drive. Watch exciting matches, tour the facility, and learn about curling from one of the club members who will be there to answer your questions. 

 History and tech buffs will appreciate the Michael I. Pupin exhibit at the Norfolk Historical Society located on the charming Norfolk Green. Explore the legacy of this electrical engineering pioneer and gain insight into his groundbreaking contributions.

Lastly, the Firehouse Open House hosted by the Norfolk Volunteer Fire Department is a must-see. Get up close with the firefighting equipment, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and connect with the dedicated individuals who keep this community safe.

Art, Music, and Culture That Inspire 

Dive into the vibrant world of art, music, and culture that defines Norfolk. Marvel at the works of Kathleen and Aaron Borkowski at the Norfolk Library and enjoy the still evolving college, “Celebrating the Northwest Corner,” on display at The Hub. 

Don’t miss the magnificent stained glass by the Franz Meyer Company of Munich, Germany, at the Immaculate Conception Church or the lovely floral designs of the Bavarian-style windows at the Church of Christ Meeting House. 

 For music enthusiasts, performances by a chamber music group from the Yale School of Music, along with local talents Michael Cobb and Seth Hagymasi, promise unforgettable moments. Be sure to catch Garet&CO’s in-the-round dance performance at Battell Chapel, running from 4 to 6 p.m. on both days. 

Whether you're exploring history, engaging in the arts, or discovering new passions, Norfolk has something special for everyone this weekend. Visit weekendinnorfolk.org for more details about these and other Winter Weekend in Norfolk events, plus updates as new events come in. 

ABOUT THE WIN (WEEKEND IN NORFOLK) COMMITTEE Now in its tenth year, the all-volunteer WIN Committee organizes two town-wide events annually: the Summer WIN and the Winter WIN. Norfolk’s town officials, the Economic Development Commission, and many local organizations, institutions, and individuals support these two town-wide festivals in order to welcome people from near and far to this lovely town in the Litchfield Hills. Information about both festivals is available online at weekendinnorfolk.org.

The Timeless Charm of Old-Fashioned Donuts @ Winter WIN

The humble donut has been a favorite in America for centuries, tracing its roots back to the 1600s when Dutch settlers introduced their "olie koeken" or "oil cakes" to the people of New York, or New Amsterdam as it was known back then. Among the many delightful variations that have evolved over the years, one stands out as the ultimate nostalgic classic: the old-fashioned donut. With its crispy exterior, cakey interior, and perfectly imperfect shape, this donut is a delicious reminder of simpler, more comforting times. 

What makes the old-fashioned donut so special? To truly appreciate what makes it different, it’s worth comparing it to its yeast-based cousins. Yeast donuts rely on, well, yeast, to create a light, airy texture and often depend on toppings – think glossy glazes or decadent fillings – to provide flavor. The old-fashioned donut, on the other hand, belongs to the cake donut family. Made with baking powder or baking soda as the leavening agent, the dough rises instantly during frying, resulting in a dense, muffin-like texture and rich flavor that stands on its own. Its cracked, rustic appearance – a possible nod to the original Dutch "oily cakes" – only adds to its charm. 

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about biting into a warm old-fashioned donut. Maybe it’s the way the crispy exterior gives way to a dense, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Perhaps it’s the simplicity of its flavor, which doesn’t rely on sugary coatings but still pairs perfectly with coffee, tea, or milk. In a world where extravagant toppings and wild fillings dominate, the old-fashioned donut stands tall as a timeless classic. Its simplicity, versatility, and comforting taste make it a favorite for purists and adventurous eaters alike. 

If you’re craving this sweet, nostalgic treat, mark your calendar for Weekend in Norfolk on February 22 and 23, 2025. Stop by the Berkshire Country Store at 6 Station Place for authentically crafted old-fashioned donuts that are sure to take you back in time. Even better, show your WIN schedule (available at the Hub just steps away) to enjoy 50% off your donut purchase. Pair it with a cup of coffee, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate indulgence – a treat as rich in history as it is in flavor. Sometimes, the simplest things really are the sweetest - especially at WIN!

Celebrate Winter at Its Best in Norfolk, Feb. 22 & 23- Fast Facts!

WHAT – Town wide festival celebrating winter in Norfolk, “the Icebox of Connecticut!” Most events free of charge @ Winter Weekend in Norfolk. 

WHERE – Norfolk, Connecticut – Townwide Festival WHEN –Saturday, February 22, and Sunday, February 23, 2025 

WEBSITE - https://weekendinnorfolk.org

The Hub at Station Place right off Rte. 44 is Information Central!

ABOUT WINTER WEEKEND IN NORFOLK 

Get ready for a town-wide celebration bursting with winter magic and adventure—welcome to Winter Weekend in Norfolk, lovingly known as the "Icebox of Connecticut!" Now in its 8th year, this two-day festival is your ticket to the “coolest” event of the season, with most activities completely FREE. Whether you're a first-timer or a returning fan, there's something for everyone to enjoy. From exciting new attractions to beloved traditions, Winter Weekend in Norfolk is the ultimate way to embrace the unique charm of this beautiful Connecticut town. 

 NEW THIS YEAR: 

• A pickleball tournament @ Botelle School 

• A mushroom inoculation workshop at Husky Meadows Farm 

• A wildlife tracking walk with Great Mountain Forest 

• An art reception celebrating the Northwest Corner at the Hub 

• A pancake breakfast made with maple syrup produced in Norfolk 

• A Book Launch, “The Norfolk Library: History, Culture, Community” 

Returning favorites: 

• Fly-tying workshops. 

• Tours of stained glass windows at Immaculate Conception Church and the Church of Christ Meeting House 

• A visit to the sugar house at Great Mountain Forest. 

• Open House at the Curling Club 

• Art shows, live music, and so much more! 

 For the full schedule and updates (new events added daily), visit weekendinnorfolk.org. 

ABOUT THE WIN (WEEKEND IN NORFOLK) COMMITTEE 

The WIN (Weekend in Norfolk) Committee, now in its tenth year, is a dedicated group of volunteers who organize two major town-wide events annually: Summer WIN and Winter WIN. These festivals are made possible through the support of Norfolk’s town officials, the Economic Development Commission, local organizations, and community members.

The Story of Chai: A Spiced Tradition @ Winter WIN 2025

A Winter Escape with a Cup of Comfort

Picture this: a cold winter weekend in Norfolk, bundled in cozy layers, with a steaming cup of chai warming your hands. That’s exactly what we’re looking forward to during our Winter Weekend in Norfolk, happening on Saturday, February 22, and Sunday, February 23. Among the highlights of the event? Warming up to winter with the magic of chai! But did you know that this beloved spiced drink has a history as rich and layered as its flavor?

Let’s dive into the fascinating origins and culture of chai—an ancient tradition that has become a global sensation.

Chai: A Blend of Flavor and History

The word chai simply means “tea” in Hindi, derived from the Chinese term “cha.” However, what sets chai apart isn’t just the tea—it’s the harmonious blend of bold spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and black pepper, combined with milk and a touch of sweetness. But the chai we sip today is a modern evolution of a much older tradition.

Over 5,000 years ago, chai began as a medicinal drink, not a treat. Legend says an Indian king created a spiced blend for Ayurveda, an ancient healing practice. Each spice had a purpose: ginger and black pepper aided digestion, cloves eased pain, cardamom boosted mood, cinnamon improved circulation, and star anise freshened breath. Surprisingly, this original chai contained no tea, milk, or sugar—just a herbal infusion crafted to heal and energize. 

Tea as we know it entered the picture much later, during the British colonization of India in the mid-1800s. The British established expansive tea plantations, cultivating the Camellia sinensis assamica plant. To popularize tea consumption, vendors began blending black tea with milk, sugar, and spices, making it more affordable and flavorful.

This innovative twist gave birth to masala chai, the spiced, creamy beverage we know and love today. By the 1960s, the development of CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) tea leaves made chai even more accessible, solidifying its place as a staple in Indian households and street corners.

Chai's Global Journey

In India, chai is not just a beverage—it’s an experience. It’s a part of everyday life, connecting families, friends, and strangers. But chai’s journey doesn’t stop at India’s borders. This beloved drink has traveled the globe, adapting and evolving to suit different cultures and tastes. Each region has added its own unique twist to the classic blend of tea, milk, and spices, creating a remarkable tapestry of flavors and traditions. In the U.S., chai has found a new identity as a versatile café favorite. 

Variations using almond, soy, or oat milk can be made, and creative concoctions like frozen chai with vanilla ice cream have become popular. Australians often enjoy their chai iced during the summer months. In the Middle East, chai takes on a luxurious twist with the addition of saffron. The golden threads infuse the drink with a subtle, floral richness that’s nothing short of indulgent. Russians bring a playful sweetness to their chai experience by mixing it with jam instead of sugar. In Japan, chai inspires an innovative twist: the use of matcha powder instead of traditional spices. This fusion bridges Indian chai with Japan’s iconic green tea culture.

From its beginnings as a healing tonic to its evolution into a global favorite, chai is more than just a drink—it’s a tale of culture, innovation, and connection. Whether you’re enjoying it the traditional way on a bustling Indian street or sipping a chai latte in Norfolk, Connecticut at one of our local cafés or restaurants, every cup carries a legacy of 5,000 years.

Making Chai at Norfolk's Icebox Cafe

Celebrate Chai @ Winter WIN

This February, as we gather in Norfolk for WIN - our Winter Weekend, let’s take a moment to celebrate chai—not just as a beverage but as a warm reminder of shared stories and traditions in Norfolk and beyond. Every sip is a journey through time and across cultures, reminding us of the simple joys that connect us all. The Icebox Cafe, located at 10 Station Place is offering a Weekend in Norfolk discount special on chai tea on Feb. 22 and 23 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.  The Icebox Cafe is also open Wednesdays through Monday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. if you are in town!

So, when you hold a cup of chai in Norfolk, pause and savor not just the flavors but the legacy it brings. After all, chai is much more than tea—it’s a global embrace in a cup...something Norfolk celebrates.

9th Annual Weekend in Norfolk - Old Fashioned Fun, Art, Music and More! August 2, 3, and 4, 2024

At the 9th annual Weekend in Norfolk (WIN) old-fashioned fun is not out of style! This town-wide celebration makes the most out of the long summer days of August by hosting a wide variety of activities that are sure to banish boredom; without breaking the bank, because most events are free! This year WIN is taking place on Friday, August 2nd, Saturday, August 3rd, and Sunday, August 4th. Events are located conveniently throughout town making them easy to find and enjoy at your own pace. 

All are welcome for old-fashioned fun

While other festivals may focus on thrill rides or big entertainment, Summer WIN focuses on traditional events, both old and new, reflecting simpler times. For example, there are events repeated by popular demand like getting married or renewing your wedding vows on the Green, tours of Tiffany stained glass windows, the rugged Hike the Peaks Challenge, Art Show openings, Music on Robertson Plaza, and self-guided walking tours around Connecticut’s most beautiful Historic District. New events that are sure to intrigue and amuse are added every year to complement popular mainstay events. To find out about everything, or to get the latest updates and directions, visit WIN's website weekendinnorfolk.org. 

You are invited to tour private gardens

 New This Year… 

If you have rhythm, feel free to join the drum circle on Friday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the Village Green. On Saturday, August 3, from 10 a.m. to noon, kids will have the opportunity to meet Smokey the Bear, play in a bounce house, ride a big wooden train, and participate in a coloring contest. Another event for kids, on Saturday, August 3, at 1 p.m. brings the Amazing Diverman, dressed in scuba gear to advocate for our oceans and marine animals. 

Kids Meet Smokey the Bear!

History buffs, should head to the Little Red School House on Saturday, August 4th from 10 am to 2 p.m. and, afterward visit the Norfolk Historical Society’s evocative new exhibit on the fascinating life of noted inventor Michael Pupin on Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

Little Red School House courtesy Norfolk Historical Society

On all three days, there will be pop-up shopping along Station Place plus an Open Mic Session from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday night. Garden and landscape lovers don’t miss the chance to stroll through two magnificent private gardens linked by an artful network of pathways and shade plantings on Sunday, August 4, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. 

Watch a Dragon Dance at the Connecticut-Asia Cultural Center

On Saturday, August 3, festivities at the Connecticut-Asia Culture Center include complimentary Asian food from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., a performance by the Dragon Dance Team at 1 p.m., Dragon Boat cart races from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., and museum tours that include the new Christian Cultural Exhibit, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Old-Fashioned Fun 

Don’t miss the chance to try Blueberry Betty and ice cream along with live music on Saturday, August 3 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. on the lawn of the Meadowbrook Apartments at 9 Shepard Road. This historic dessert dates to colonial times and is part of New England’s heritage celebrated at WIN. 

Blueberries are good for you and scrumptious

Another traditional event, Ice Cream Socials, dates back to the 18th century with the first one recorded in Maryland in 1744. Ice cream socials are rarely found these days, but at WIN we are fortunate to have one at the Yale Summer School of Music’s Music Shed from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. There is also an open house that includes tours of Whitehouse from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and a special concert for kids from 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. 

Ice cream social at the Music Shed

Dating back to the 11th century, knitting, an old-fashioned skill, is trending today. If you enjoy this centuries-old craft, don’t miss the yarn sale on August 3, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Hub where you can go on a treasure hunt for fabulous one-of-a-kind yarns, kits, notions, patterns, and more offered by the Norfolk Knitters. 

Go on a treasure hunt for yarn and more

Nature Lovers

If you have always wanted to learn how to fly fish or want to sharpen your skills, join one of expert fisherman Doug McDevitt’s seminars on Saturday, August 3rd, and Sunday, August 4th from 9 to 11 a.m., from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Wood Creek Pond, a sportsman’s paradise. He will demonstrate the art of casting and share many tips and tricks for successful fly fishing. Participants are limited to five people per session; equipment will be loaned courtesy of Orvis's store in Avon. This is the ideal event for fish enthusiasts of all ages and levels. Doug will also hold special Spey casting clinics on both days from 11 a.m. to noon.

Gone Fishin!

If your interest in nature extends to the stars, then head to the top of Dennis Hill State Park on the evening of August 3 from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. to learn about astronomy led by Aton Forest's  Matthew Johnson, writer of the Celestial Sphere column in Norfolk Now. He will also hold sun-gazing sessions that afternoon from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Inspired By Art 

Norfolk boasts so many talented artists and craftsmen, and two will be sharing their skills with WIN guests. 

Leslie Watkins

Leslie Watkins of Dandelion Cottage Design, Arts and Crafts is offering free art lessons and demonstrations in watercolors and paper crafting on all three days from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Hilary VanWright

On Saturday and Sunday, from noon to 3 p.m. visit the studio of artist Hilary VanWright and share her visually compelling work. Attend an opening reception on Friday of the 17th Anniversary Norfolk Artists and Friends show in the Art Barn, which will be open all three days at the Battell Stoeckel Estate. On Saturday, head to the show at the Norfolk Library celebrating 50 years of art exhibition by displaying the work of 27 artists. 

Dodi Wexler

There is even an art show of all three days of intricate mixed media collages at the Norfolk Hub, which is information central, by Dodi Wexler. 

Music Shed

Music Galore 

Music has always been a feature of Weekend in Norfolk, and this year there is even more. At the famed Music Shed on the Battell-Stoeckel Estate, there are ticketed concerts starting at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and, as a special treat, there is a free Emerging Artists Showcase concert on Saturday, August 3, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Infinity Hall is holding two ticketed concerts on Friday and Saturday, featuring the Yacht Lobsters and Ruthie Foster. At 4 p.m. on Sunday afternoon, the Litchfield County Choral Union will present its annual concert (also ticketed). To top it all off, throughout the three-day weekend, there will be free live music at Robertson Plaza, including the open mic session on Saturday evening, all sponsored by the National Iron Bank. 

ABOUT THE WIN (WEEKEND IN NORFOLK) COMMITTEE 

Now in its ninth year, the all-volunteer WIN Committee organizes two town-wide events annually: the Summer WIN and the Winter WIN. Norfolk’s town officials, the Economic Development Commission, and many local organizations, institutions, and individuals support these two town-wide festivals to welcome people from near and far to this lovely town in the Litchfield Hills. "The WIN weekend is important to the town and the bank because it allows us all to showcase what Norfolk has to offer," said Steven Cornell, President of National Iron Bank.