A WIN-ning Combination
The verdant hills of Norfolk have long been a summer playground for residents and visitors alike. Ten years ago town leaders had a brilliant idea—why not have bi-annual celebrations that introduce all to the rich and varied experiences that make the town special.
On August 1st through 3rd, the town will celebrate the 10th anniversary of that idea with the summer Weekend in Norfolk festival where old favorites and new additions will abound—among them art shows and musical events, free yoga lessons, a pop-up bookstore, bocce and pickleball competitions, historical and garden tours, hiking challenges, and events for children.
Among the time-honored traditions will be an opportunity to renew wedding vows on the Green, tours of Tiffany’s stained-glass windows at Battell Chapel and a chance to see the historic White House, once home to the hugely influential Battell family.
Indulge in nostalgic delights such as the Blueberry Betty and Ice Cream Social at Meadow Brook apartments on Saturda, or share in a children’s concert and ice cream social at the iconic Music Shed on the Battell estate on Sunday.
A highlight is the new Sidewalk Sunday, taking place from 1 to 5 PM on Station Place. The street will bustle with energy as local organizations, artists and authors showcase their creations and share their passions.
From Friday night's concert on the Green to an Emerging Artists at the Yale Summer School’s Music Shed, to multiple Saturday showcases of popular local acts, 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.
Nature is a mainstay in the Norfolk experience and visitors can explore it by joining a guided birding walk through Barbour Woods or diving into 90 years of climate history at Great Mountain Forest’s historic weather station.
Children will find plenty to engage them from a West African music and dance workshop at the Norfolk Library to hands-on art and water play at Botelle School.
And visitors can step back in time Saturday and Sunday afternoon with the Norfolk Historical Society's new exhibit, "A New Birth of Freedom: Norfolk in the Civil War," which looks at the town’s attitude toward slavery in the years leading up to the war and its response to the conflict. In all, 145 Norfolk men marched off to war and 39 made the ultimate sacrifice.
History buffs can further enrich the experience with a guided tour of Center Cemetery led by Barry Webber, the Society’s executive director or they can stroll through Norfolk’s charming Historic District on a self-guided walking tour.
While there will be no Five Peaks Challenge this year, hikers can still take to the trails and experience the rugged beauty of the local landscape while fishing enthusiasts can join expert fisherman Doug McDevitt in fly fishing seminars for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. On Saturday and Sunday, McDevitt will offer fly fishing seminars perfect for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. With personalized instruction limited to five participants per session, participants will receive hands-on guidance in the art of Spey casting, courtesy of equipment provided by Orvis of Avon.
Nature lovers can also enjoy a Sunday stroll through two private gardens linked by beautifully designed pathways and lush shade plantings—a serene escape for any garden enthusiast.
Cultural explorers should visit the Connecticut Asia Cultural Center Saturday from 11:00 AM to 3 PM for its annual festival where visitors will find exhibits on Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian, Christian and Incan cultures, along with performances such as the Tai Chi Fan Dance. There will be a complimentary Asian lunch box, an opportunity to participate in a Dragon Boat Race competition, seminars and a traditional tea ceremony.
For the sports-minded, the Norfolk Recreation Committee has organized three pickleball tournaments, starting at 8 AM Sunday morning at Botelle School. Rackets will be available.
For details of these and other events, including signup links and a printable schedule, go to the WIN website.
An information center at 2 Station Place will be staffed from 11 AM to 5 PM on Friday; 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and 10 AM to 5:00 PM on Sunday.