The Magic of Summer Gardens in Norfolk, Connecticut

There is something unmistakably magical about the summer gardens in Norfolk. At this summer’s WIN, on Sunday, August 2, 2026, one of the standout experiences is the rare opportunity to step inside four exceptional private gardens alongside a thoughtfully cultivated community garden. Each space offers its own personality, rhythm, and story—inviting visitors to slow down and truly see what makes a garden come alive. 

Private gardens have a special kind of quiet magic. Every path, planting choice, and tucked-away corner reflects the care and personality of the person who created it, making these spaces feel less like landscapes and more like deeply personal worlds. 

At Feeding Body and Soul on 84 Maple Avenue, that idea comes to life beautifully: “Our garden’s focus is to feed us, our chickens, our bees—and our souls.” The garden is shaped by organic practices and a natural, thoughtful rhythm—from removing invasive species to working with challenging terrain and letting beauty emerge in its own time. Behind the house, a skillfully built kitchen garden rises from sloped, stone-filled ground, with raised beds lined with gravel, cold frames along a retaining wall, espaliered apple and pear trees, and space for bees, chickens, and future gatherings. Out front, the mood softens into a naturalized meadow, where native plants sway in shades of green and white, brightened by bursts of seasonal color. 

Body and Soul Garden

At Connections (76 Maple Avenue), the garden does something rare: it stretches beyond a single property, seamlessly linking two neighboring landscapes through a network of peaceful woodland paths. As you wander along meandering, wood-chipped trails edged with salvaged sapling trunks, the journey gently guides you downhill through the woods. Along the way, the transition feels natural and unforced—paths glide through a shallow depression before opening into mature plantings that surround the house and lawn. The result is a landscape that feels truly connected in every sense. More than simply beautiful, these neighboring gardens are a quiet testament to the idea that outdoor spaces can unite people just as powerfully as they shape the land.

Meandering Woodland Paths - Connections

At 290 Bruey Road, professionally designed gardens create a beautiful story of transformation. What were once two separate properties have been thoughtfully brought together through woodland pathways, layered plantings, and carefully shaped garden spaces. Visitors move through a sweeping transition from structured lawn and mature shrubs into a more shaded woodland setting, where winding paths, curated shade gardens, and restored areas invite moments of discovery along the way. 

One of the connected gardens

The second property, now serving as the primary residence, continues to evolve as a living landscape. With expanded plantings and newly diversified vegetable beds, the garden remains a work in progress—one that keeps growing, changing, and revealing new layers of design over time. 

Formal Borders

Our next stop, Formal Borders, is at 152 Litchfield Road and features a lovely Arts and Crafts–style home and garden dating back to 1908. With care and thoughtful interpretation, the current owners have brought new energy to the original design by Marian Coffin, restoring the garden’s historic charm while giving it a fresh sense of life.

Highlights include a refined formal parterre stretching south from the house, along with a striking double border on the west side, recreated using guidance from an original working plan. One of the garden’s most delightful features is a graceful half-moon of dwarf and semi-dwarf evergreens. What began as a chance collection of gifted plants has grown into a lush natural screen, now enclosing an extra perennial bed and adding depth and intimacy to the space. Altogether, Formal Borders offers a serene blend of history, beauty, and thoughtful evolution.

Wooded Pathways

The final stop, the Community Garden at 128 Greenwoods Road East, on the grounds of Botelle Elementary School, offers something just as meaningful as it is beautiful: a true sense of shared purpose. Sponsored by the town’s Recreation Committee, this welcoming space brings together neighbors, families, and young gardeners in a collaborative effort that blossoms throughout the season. 

In the height of summer, visitors can see children from the Summer Gardening Club caring for their own beds, along with a vibrant mix of vegetables like pumpkins, tomatoes, peas, lettuce, kale, and more. Some plots are even dedicated to supporting the local Food Pantry, helping the garden make a difference in the wider community. 

Guests will enjoy hands-on learning through composting demonstrations led by resident expert Doug Semmes, and the first 25 visitors will receive a complimentary herb seedling to take home. Looking ahead, the garden’s impact will continue to grow this fall through programming designed to engage local fifth- and sixth-graders in ongoing stewardship. 

Whether you’re drawn by inspiration, tranquility, or the sheer visual beauty of a summer garden in full bloom, this experience offers more than a simple tour. It offers a way of seeing—one that stays with you long after the season fades. Because truly, there is something special about gardening. And in Norfolk, at the height of summer, you can feel it in every leaf, every blossom, and every carefully tended path.

Discover the Spirit of Summer @ 11th Annual Weekend in Norfolk July 31 – August 2, 2026

Weekend in Norfolk (WIN) is celebrating its 11th year, and it continues to show that small-town charm can create truly big-time experiences. From Friday, July 31, through Sunday, August 2, Norfolk comes alive with music, art, food, and plenty of opportunities to discover something new around every corner. 

What keeps WIN going year after year isn’t just the packed schedule of events —it’s the feeling it creates. It’s neighbors catching up, visitors feeling right at home, and the whole town embracing the unique welcoming spirit that makes Norfolk so special. 

At the heart of this year’s festivities is the newly expanded Sidewalk Sunday, set for August 2, from 12 PM to 4 PM on Robertson Plaza. With the street closed to traffic, the plaza becomes a welcoming pedestrian haven. Visitors can browse handmade goods, meet local creators, and even purchase books autographed right on the spot. To add to the atmosphere, live music fills the air. It’s part market, part festival, and all community. 

If you love gardening, Sunday has a special treat in store. You can step inside three private gardens and one public gem to explore some truly beautiful spaces. At Woodland Pathways, a mature garden surrounds a charming colonial home and flows into the nearby woods through a beautifully designed network of trails. Feeding Body and Soul is just as inviting. A bright meadow of native plants welcomes you first, then opens into an organically grown kitchen garden. You’ll find raised beds, espaliered apple and pear trees, a bocce court framed by perennial borders, plus space for bee hives and chickens. You can also visit Norfolk’s community gardens and meet some of the gardeners behind the summer blooms. Children in the Summer Gardening Club tend two garden beds of their own, and there are even beds dedicated to the Food Pantry. Norfolk’s compost expert, Doug Semmes, will be on hand sharing tips on composting, and the first 25 visitors will receive a free herb seedling to take home. 

And when it comes to music, WIN delivers nonstop sound, most of it free. The weekend kicks off Friday night with a free concert on the Green featuring Travelin’ Trout, plus a ticketed show at Yale’s Music Shed. On Saturday, the momentum keeps building with a free Emerging Artists concert at the Music Shed and live performances at Robertson Plaza from the Roys, Hitchcock, & Mead trio, Elias Neuman-Donihue toThree Seater, and the Grantville Dogs, all sponsored by National Iron Bank.

On Sunday, catch performances by Andy Styles, Just Playing Around, and the Mudgetones at Robertson Plaza, plus a delightful children’s concert and ice cream social at the Music Shed. The weekend also includes a ticketed performance by the Litchfield County Choral Union at the Music Shed. No matter what your taste—folk, bluegrass, classic hits, or something in between—there’s a rhythm waiting for you. WIN also invites you outdoors with a lineup of fun ways to explore Norfolk. 

Kick off your weekend on Friday with a plant and bird identification walk at City Meadow, led by Laurie Green on behalf of Great Mountain Forest. Then keep the momentum going on Saturday morning with yoga on the Green with Miranda Lee or join the Rails to Trails Committee for a guided gravel bike ride and discover Norfolk’s lesser-known routes. Prefer to explore at your own pace? 

Norfolk has plenty to discover, from a self-guided stroll through the charming Historic District to miles of trails where Norfolk’s wooded landscapes unfold around you. And for anglers, fly fishing workshops with expert Doug McDevitt offer hands-on small-group instruction, complete with Orvis gear at Wood Creek Pond. 

At the Norfolk Historical Society, history feels wonderfully close at hand. Visitors can step into an exhibit that brings the Revolutionary War era to life, including Norfolk’s response to the 1774 British blockade of Boston Harbor—a powerful reminder that even small communities played a role in shaping American history. 

Beyond the museum, there’s even more to explore, from tours of the Tiffany-stained glass windows at Battell Chapel and the Franz Meyer windows at the Immaculate Conception Church to the historic Whitehouse, once home to Ellen Battell and Carl Stoeckel and now part of the Yale Summer School of Music/Norfolk Chamber Music Festival. The Stoeckel legacy continues through the Music Shed and a lasting commitment to music, art, and community. 

This summer, WIN also offers plenty for art lovers. Enjoy standout exhibitions like the Centennial Exhibition of Aton Forest, honoring conservation pioneers Dr. Frank Egler and photographer Happy Kitchel Egler at the Hub, the 19th annual Norfolk Artists & Friends show at the Art Barn, and featured works by JanaLee Cherneski at the Norfolk Library. 

Visitors can also attend an open studio with Hilary VanWright and take behind-the-scenes library tours to uncover hidden treasures. When it’s time to eat, local favorites like the Icebox Cafe, the Berkshire Country Store, and Infinity Bistro serve up delicious options and WIN specials. At the same time, food trucks and pop-up vendors add even more variety. 

 WIN shines brightest in its simple, joyful traditions. From a blueberry Betty and ice cream social at Meadow Brook Apartments to weddings and vow renewals on the Green, there’s something warm and welcoming for everyone. Families can look forward to a free children’s concert and ice cream social at the historic Music Shed, along with fun, educational events for kids at Botelle School. 

And for a global celebration, don’t miss the Connecticut -Asia Cultural Center on Saturday, August 1, from 11 AM to 3 PM, featuring cultural exhibits and performances, a Tai Chi Fan Dance, complimentary Asian lunch boxes, Dragon Boat Racers activities, bonsai demos, and tea ceremonies. With most events free and everything conveniently located, WIN invites you to explore at your own pace. Whether you come for the music, the art, the history, or simply the atmosphere, you’ll leave with something more meaningful: a sense of belonging. Explore the full lineup that updates daily at Weekend in Norfolk and plan your perfect weekend—because in Norfolk, summer isn’t just a season…it’s a shared experience. 

ABOUT THE WIN (WEEKEND IN NORFOLK) COMMITTEE 

Now in its 11th year, the all-volunteer WIN Committee organizes two townwide events each year: the Summer WIN and the Winter WIN. Norfolk’s town officials, the Economic Development Commission, and many local organizations, institutions, and individuals support these festivals, which welcome people from near and far to this lovely town in the Litchfield Hills. Information about both festivals is available online at weekendinnorfolk.org.

Experience the Art of Chair Rushing and Caning with Susannah Anderson @ Weekend in Norfolk

On Sunday,  February 22,  from 10 am to 2 pm at the Berkshire County Store, during Weekend in Norfolk, you will find Susannah Anderson, immersed in a craft that ties beauty, patience, and heritage together: chair rushing and hole to hole caning. With every meticulous weave, Susannah breathes new life into worn chairs, preserving heirloom furniture, and the rich, layered stories embedded in each seat. 

Susannah’s path to chair weaving began with a deeply personal motivation: a family heirloom. "When my in-laws downsized, they passed on a few pieces of furniture, including a pair of worn Danish modern chairs,” she recalls. Intrigued and determined to restore them, she dove into online tutorials. In 2019, she re-wove the chairs. What many craftspeople love about rushing and caning is the almost meditative rhythm of wrapping and knotting. There is something magical about watching the geometric patterns gradually unfold, transforming a tired chair back into both beauty and usefulness. For Susannah, each woven chair is more than just a piece of furniture; it's a labor of love and a thread connecting decades of use.

That initial spark soon ignited a wider passion. From Danish cord to ash splint, from a neighbor’s heirloom chair to a canoe seat her father was restoring, each new project added to her skill set. "I see rushing and caning as a way for people to be able to use a chair they love. If someone has had a chair with a broken seat for years it must mean something to them, to save it and be willing to put money into getting it fixed -  or even a beloved thrifted item. People seem very glad to be able to use their chairs again," Susannah shares. 

Woven rush seating has a long and fascinating history, stretching all the way back to ancient Egypt, where bulrushes were transformed into strong, comfortable seats. Over the centuries, this craft grew in popularity—particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries in England and Colonial America, where country-style ladder back and spindle back chairs became household staples. Although the art of rush seating saw a decline in the 20th century, largely due to the loss of skilled craftsmen during wartime, it’s now making a wonderful comeback, thanks to renewed interest in the Arts and Crafts Movement.

Today, rushing a chair involves working with both durable twisted paper—known as fiber rush—and natural materials like bulrush or twisted cattail leaves. The result is a beautifully textured, sturdy seat that combines practical strength with nostalgic charm. Chair caning, by contrast, uses the glossy outer layer of rattan palm vine to create a seat that’s lightweight, breathable, and remarkably strong. Whether can is hand-woven through holes or pressed in as a pre-woven mesh, each technique adds its own distinctive touch.

Susannah, a painter, brings her keen artistic eye and a true passion for craftsmanship to every restoration project. She carefully assesses each chair’s needs and applies time-honored techniques to restore its beauty and function. While the process may look effortless, it demands patience, strong hands, and meticulous attention to detail.

Keeping these age-old crafts alive is not without its challenges. Materials are more expensive now, and handmade work is always a labor of love. As Susannah notes, “Trying to keep a project affordable, while making a living, as we say, is the ongoing challenge.” Yet, her commitment to restoration over replacement, and preservation over mass production, shines through in every project.

Those lucky enough to visit her Sunday demonstrations get to witness something special: not just the repair of a chair, but the revival of a tradition. Each seat restored is a piece of history woven by hand, carried forward by dedication and artistry.

For more information on Weekend in Norfolk visit http://weekendinnorfolk.org And, for information on the studio of Susannah Anderson visit https://www.susannahandersonart.com

Join the 2026 Winter Photography Workshop in Norfolk — A Picture-Perfect Experience Awaits!

Join us for a picture-perfect adventure at the Weekend in Norfolk's Winter Photography Workshop on Saturday, February 21, from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm, led by talented photographer Doug McDevitt. There’s something truly enchanting about Norfolk, Connecticut in the winter—the crisp air, snow-laden pines, and timeless New England charm make it a dream location for photographers of all levels. What better way to embrace the season than by exploring your creativity in this magical setting?

A Splash of Color photo Doug McDevitt

This friendly, immersive workshop is free and open to everyone, whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills. Doug will guide you through both the technical and artistic sides of photography, covering everything from the unique advantages of film and digital cameras to composing more dynamic images and mastering natural light in winter landscapes. You'll also pick up real-world shooting strategies and learn how to maximize your camera’s settings for the best results.

The cascading beauty of Buttermilk Falls: photo:  Doug McDevitt

The workshop is thoughtfully divided into two parts:

• Classroom Session (1 hour inside the Norfolk Hub), where you'll dive into techniques and tips
• Hands-on Photography Walk (2 hours in scenic City Meadow), where you’ll practice capturing Norfolk’s winter beauty alongside fellow enthusiasts Please note the location for the walk may change depending on weather conditions.

Share your images with fellow photographers

Just bring your camera of choice (DSLR, mirrorless, smartphone, or film), bundle up in warm clothes, and come ready to explore! This isn’t just a learning experience—it’s a creative adventure in a storybook setting. Don’t miss the chance to see Norfolk at its winter finest and connect with a community of like-minded photography lovers. Come for the photos, stay for the inspiration! 

For more information https://weekendinnorfolk.org

Celebrate the 9th Annual Winter Weekend in Norfolk – February 21 & 22, 2026

Get ready to experience winter at its finest during the 9th Annual Winter Weekend in Norfolk (WIN), happening Saturday, February 21, and Sunday, February 22. Set in the tranquil hills of northwestern Connecticut, every winter Norfolk transforms into a lively hub of creativity, community, and cold-weather charm. Whether you're drawn by outdoor adventures, art exhibits, or toe-tapping live music, WIN brings together the best of small-town charm and seasonal cheer. Enjoy everything from concerts to hands-on workshops and family-friendly events—all wrapped in the winter beauty of New England. The best part of WIN is that most events are free! For a full lineup and details of events and activities, be sure to visit weekendinnorfolk.org 

Free Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss 

You may want to start your adventure by joining photographer Doug McDevitt for a hands-on Winter Photography Workshop, where you’ll pick up expert tips on capturing the season’s natural glow and composing truly stunning shots. Then, step outside and explore the breathtaking, unspoiled beauty of Norfolk—a true winter wonderland just waiting to be framed. It's the perfect chance to sharpen your skills while creating images worthy of Instagram! 

Nature lovers, you won’t want to miss the Norfolk Conservation Committee’s native wildflower seed giveaway! It’s the perfect chance to pick up some seeds and learn how to transform your own backyard into a buzzing pollinator paradise. 

If you lean more toward art and history, you’re in for a treat—take a tour of the stunning stained glass windows at Battell Chapel, Church of Christ Congregational and Immaculate Conception Church. These breathtaking works are historic masterpieces by renowned artisans like Louis Comfort Tiffany, D. Maitland Armstrong, and Franz Mayer of Munich. 

For history buffs and fashion enthusiasts alike, The Romance of Worth: The Eldridge Sisters and the Centennial at the Norfolk Historical Society is a must-see. This captivating exhibition unveils decades of history through the lives of the Eldridge family, with a special spotlight on two bespoke gowns made by the House of Worth, the legendary 19th century Parisian fashion house credited with inventing haute couture. To deepen the experience, visitors are invited to a special gallery talk offering rare insights into the painstaking process of restoring these delicate garments for display. 

For fans of interior design and historic craftsmanship, WIN offers another wonder: a live demonstration of the ancient art of chair rushing—a practice dating back to the 4th century BCE, at the Berkshire Store. Artisan Susannah Anderson brings this timeless skill to life, weaving reeds and natural fibers to create supportive, beautiful seats right before your eyes. Rushing, along with other seat-weaving techniques such as cane and Danish cord, reflects generations of practical artistry that remains relevant in artisanal furnishing today. After soaking in fashion history, and living craftsmanship, round out your WIN day out at Joseph Stannard Antiques & Design’s open house. 

Art aficionados can dive into Norfolk’s vibrant scene as well. Explore two artists’ studios, Ruthann Olsson’s and Cheryl Heller’s, and connect with artists Katie Atkinson and Jeremiah Bickford during special Meet the Artist sessions to uncover the inspiration behind their work. And be sure to see the pop up art show by the Norfolk Artists & Friends at Wildwood 1880, a classic Victorian inn; they’ll be holding an early bird reception on Friday evening. Wildwood 1880 is also hosting a pop-up bakery and bookshop to add to the fun. 

Sports enthusiasts, don’t miss the action at the Norfolk Curling Club, where you can soak up the excitement of live curling matches while enjoying refreshments in a cozy atmosphere. It’s a rare opportunity to witness the fascinating strategy and teamwork behind one of the world’s oldest sports! If you’re a fishing fan, there’s a special Fly Tying workshop—perfect for both curious beginners and seasoned anglers eager to refine their craft. Families are well taken care of, too. 

On Sunday, the Hub transforms into a downtown haven for kids, offering children’s films, hot chocolate, and popcorn—all the ingredients for a perfect family outing on a chilly day, courtesy of the Hub and the National Iron Bank. And, up at Botelle Elementary School, there’s a blizzard of fun things for kids and their parents to do. 

As always, Norfolk’s love for music comes alive at this year’s Winter WIN. Warm up with an exciting lineup—feel the energy of a brass quintet at the Norfolk Library, relax to the soulful sounds of Michael Cobb’s at The Hub, and be dazzled by award-winning pianist Po-Wei Ger’s classical concert. 

In addition to all these free events, there’s so much more happening. The Icebox Café and Berkshire Country Store are rolling out WIN Weekend specials you won’t want to miss, and two pop-up bakeries are joining the fun with irresistible treats. Then there are events that are ticketed, including a mushroom workshop, or that request a donation, such as an evening coffeehouse with live music and refreshments. For a full schedule and the latest updates, visit weekendinnorfolk.org

The WIN Committee, now in its twelfth year, is a volunteer-powered team dedicated to organizing Norfolk’s Summer and Winter WIN festivals. With support from town officials, the Economic Development Commission, and countless local organizations and individuals, these events welcome visitors from near and far to experience all that Norfolk has to offer.

Welcome to “Sidewalk Sunday”: A Fresh New Feature for Weekend in Norfolk!

Get ready to stroll, shop, and soak in the creativity at Norfolk’s brand-new Sidewalk Sunday, happening on the afternoon of Sunday, August 3! As part of this year’s Weekend in Norfolk (WIN) festivities, Station Place will transform into an open-air marketplace full of local charm. From 12:45 to 5:00 p.m., the street will be closed to vehicles, making room for a vibrant mix of tents featuring local artists, authors, artisans, and organizations—all eager to share their work and passions with you.

Whether you're on the hunt for unique handmade goods, curious about local causes, or just looking to enjoy a fun Sunday afternoon, Sidewalk Sunday has something for everyone. And to top it off, live music on Robertson Plaza from local favorites like Elias Neuman-Donihue, Julia Autumn Ford, and Mike Cobb and his band will keep the vibe festive. Feel free to sing along, dance, or just tap your toes while you browse!

Want to be part of the action? If you’re a local creative or part of a Norfolk organization, there’s still time to join in! Just email win@earthlink.net to request your spot. And don’t forget to check out the full three-day schedule of WIN events at weekendinnorfolk.org
See you on the sidewalk!