WIN - Weekend in Norfolk - Behind the Scenes - The First Selectman

Norfolk is a very special community in the heart of Connecticut's Litchfield Hills, and one of the most unique in the state because they have developed a summer and a winter town-wide festival that welcomes residents and visitors alike. The Town of Norfolk has put tangible help behind its approval of WIN. It acts as the event’s fiscal agent so that donations made to WIN are tax deductible, its staff assists the committee as needed and it allows the use of town property for events that are part of WIN. “The town’s encouragement and support are so important,” Frisch says. “That support makes everything easier to do."

One of the most important elements of creating a town-wide festival is to get the support of local government officials and Matt Riiska, First Selectman, of the Town of Norfolk, has nothing but praise for WIN that is scheduled to take place this year on August 3, 4 and 5. "The Town recognizes that we lack the land and infrastructure for industrial parks, we focus on what we have, beautiful scenery, a wide variety of outdoor activities, and, of course, great cultural opportunities."

Riiska believes that WIN is a natural extension of Norfolk's rich cultural heritage. "Music, art, and literature are all embraced by our town. From the summer concerts at the Ellen Battell Stoeckel Estate, home of the Yale Summer School of Music, to the year round concerts at Infinity Hall and the concerts throughout the year at the library, there are many opportunities for music lovers to be satisfied.  The monthly art openings at the Norfolk Library and the summer art programs at Yale not only display art, but also encourage artists to participate in classes to hone their skills.  If you are more interested in literature you can always stop in at the Norfolk Library to pick up a good read or participate in a book discussion. All of these venues not only provide the stimulation of their respective art, but the buildings are also architecturally beautiful."

Riiska believes that WIN is an excellent way to showcase what a wonderful town Norfolk is and he hopes that it encourages more people to move to this charming and vibrant community. "Having worked with the WIN Committee since it started, it is a reflection of how engaged so many are in Norfolk. WIN is one example of how many hours people put in to make it a wonderful place to live. The one person who should receive a lot of praise for her countless hours and energy to make this happen is Sue Frisch. Sue encourages all of the countless volunteers who make this happen. This is why Norfolk is a terrific place to live, because of people like Sue, who give so much of their time, ideas, and passion to the community."

About WIN

A Weekend in Norfolk to be held August 3,4, and 5, is a fun and activity-filled three days that show off what town residents love about living here.  World class music, street concerts, farmers markets, walking tours and star gazing are just some of the activities. There are kids activities from water soccer, a tour of Lost Ruby Farm, and art classes, to the chance for adults to renew their wedding vows on the Village Green should the romantic spirit of Norfolk inspire them.  For an up to date listing of events visit the website.