Your guide to the heart of Litchfield County:
Discover local stories, hidden gems, and must-know events.

Looking for weekend plans in Litchfield County?

Celebrate summer with top events across the region: see Annie at the Sharon Playhouse, explore The Art of Handcrafting Shoes in Cornwall, view Grace by Kathleen Weatherford at KMR Arts, enjoy the Bantam Lake Ski Show in Morris, experience Weekend in Norfolk, and don’t miss the Whigstock Studio Pop-Up at The Pinnacle in Washington Depot.

Coming up:

Don’t miss the FUTR Peggy Mercury Fundraising Event in Kent or enjoy art and music at Second Saturday at Kent Barns.

Discover more on our full event calendar!

Thursday, July 31st

Tales Well Told, Oliver Wolcott Library, Litchfield

The Sharon Playhouse Presents “Annie”, Sharon

Friday, August 1st

The Shanghai Quartet, The Music Shed, Norfolk

Whigstock Studio Pop-Up, The Pinnacle, Washington Depot

Sharon Summer Book Signing, The Hotchkiss Library of Sharon

Weekend In Norfolk, Norfolk

The Art Of Handcrafting Shoes, Cornwall Historical Society, Cornwall

KMR Arts welcomes Grace by Kathleen Weatherford, Washington Depot

The Last Illusion, The Hughes Memorial Library, West Cornwall

The Sharon Playhouse Presents “Annie”, Sharon

Saturday, August 2nd

Sharon Summer Book Signing, The Hotchkiss Library of Sharon

Weekend In Norfolk, Norfolk

birdBOX at White Hollow Box, Sharon

Bill Charlap Trio Music Mountain, Falls Village

In and with Nature Art Reception, Souterrain Gallery, West Cornwall

KMR Arts welcomes Grace by Kathleen Weatherford, Washington Depot

The Sharon Playhouse Presents “Annie”, Sharon

Gala: Night at the Cinema, The Music Shed, Norfolk

Concerts on the Green presents Nina Et Cetera    , New Milford

Now Dark, Now Glittering Opening Reception, The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens, Washington Depot

Leaf Printing Workshop, Flanders Nature Center, Woodbury

Bantam Lake Ski Show, Sandy Beach, Morris

Sunday, August 3rd

Sharon Summer Book Signing, The Hotchkiss Library of Sharon

Weekend In Norfolk, Norfolk

The Sharon Playhouse Presents “Annie”, Sharon

Bantam Lake Ski Show, Sandy Beach, Morris

Verona Quartet at Music Mountain, Falls Village

Dog Days of Summer at Hopkins, Hopkins Vineyard, Warren

Coming Up

FUTR Peggy Mercury Fundraising Event, Peggy Mercury, Kent

Evening in the Garden, Hollister House Garden, Washington

The Rough & Tumble, Merryall Center, New Milford

Second Saturday, Kent Barns, Kent

Midsummer Party for Conservation, Bridgewater

Strut Your Mutt Summer Social,Washington Depot

Save the Date for Savor Litchfield
Litchfield County’s Culinary Event of the Year
Sunday, September 14 | South Farms, Morris

Sign up for SMS Updates Here

Mark your calendar for Litchfield Magazine’s Savor Litchfield, the premier culinary event held at the beautiful South Farms in Morris. From 3–6pm, enjoy an unforgettable afternoon of flavor as Chef John Bordeau of Sparrow in New Milford brings together 20 of the area’s top culinary talents, each preparing signature bites for guests to enjoy. Expect craft cocktails from Litchfield Distillery and South Farms, upscale pop-up shops, live music by the Dirk Quinn Band, a full cash bar, and fun for the whole family with a dedicated kids zone.

Looking to elevate your experience? Our special limited quantity of VIP tickets offer early access beginning at 2 pm, featuring an exclusive hour of elevated offerings, including premium bites, signature cocktails, and a deluxe goody bag. VIP guests will enjoy special tastings from Michelin-award-winning chef Gabe McMackin, Prosecco, curated cheeses by Kate Redin, seafood by Zach Redin of To the Gills, and more—all before the main event opens to the public at 3pm.

New this year: VIP tables for six, available for purchase, include reserved seating for the full event plus upgraded food and drink perks.

A portion of proceeds will benefit the nonprofit F.I.S.H. NWCT, a vital shelter in Torrington providing food and hope for those in need. Sign up for text messages to be alerted when ticket sales are open. First come, first serve. This event always sells out.

TICKET PRICES: 

GENERAL ADMISSION:  $150
◗ Tastings available for 20 local chefs from 3-6pm
◗ Kid’s Zone, craft cocktails, pop-up shops

AGE 4-12 ADMISSION:  $50
◗ Age 3 and below – FREE ADMISSION

VIP EARLY ACCESS:  $225
◗ Early VIP entry before the crowds
◗ Complimentary glass of Prosecco
◗ Exclusive Chef’s Tastings, created just for VIP guests
◗ Swag bags filled with gifts from sponsors

PRIVATE TABLE FOR 6:  $2,400 (Limited availability)
◗ Reserved table for 6 for duration of event.
◗ Early VIP entry before the crowds
◗ Complimentary bottle of Prosecco
◗ Exclusive Chef’s Tasting Plate, created just for table guests
◗ Swag bags filled with gifts from sponsors
◗ Personalized table signage with your brand or group name
◗ Professional photo opportunity with the new Litchfield Magazine cover

THE CHEFS

Lead Event Chef John Bourdeau
Owner, Sparrow, New Milford

Chef Bourdeau’s restaurant offers a “world menu” to his guests with creative flavors and a variety of dishes from around the globe. Bourdeau is well-known for his previous beloved eateries, The Owl in New Preston and Lucia in New Milford. @sparrownewmilford

Chef Robert Arbor
Le Gamin, Sharon 

Chef Robert Arbor, of Le Gamin in Sharon, brings classic French charm and flavor to the table with his beloved café fare and warm hospitality. @legamin

Chef CJ Barroso
Lost Fox Inn, Litchfield 

Chef CJ Barroso has worked in some of NYC’s top kitchens, including Aquavit with Marcus Samuelsson, Michelin-starred Public, Saxon and Parole, and The Finch. At Lost Fox Inn, his seasonal menus reflect a passion for local ingredients and farmer partnerships. @plant_create_eat

Chef Pam Buchler 
New Morning Market, Woodbury 

Chef Pam Buchler, Culinary Director at New Morning Market, brings decades of experience and a passion for seasonal, nourishing food. Trained under CIA chef Rich Herzfeld, she rose to Head Chef at Chef’s Table, founded Aquarian Caterers, and champions local farms and food education. At New Morning, she crafts vibrant dishes and leads culinary innovation with heart and purpose. @newmorningmarket1971

Chef Ryan Carbone
Swyft, Kent 

A CIA graduate, Ryan brings refined technique and creativity to Ore Hill and Swyft. Previously Chef de Cuisine at Jupiter in NYC and Executive Chef at Tied House in Chicago, he’s inspired by local farms and values balance, flavor, and community in his work. @chefboyrc91

Chef Carl Ciacia III
South Farms, Morris 

Chef Carl brings his Italian culinary training to offer fresh Mediterranean-style cuisine. Head Chef of South Farms, Ciarcia leads the development of their culinary program. @carlciarcia

Chef Dennis DeBellis
John’s Cafe, Woodbury 

Chef DeBellis is a 1994 graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and earned an additional degree in international bread baking from the French Culinary Institute in 1999. He has served as the chef of John’s Café since 2000 and became the owner in 2015. @johnscafe693main

Chef Matthew Delongis
Marketplace Tavern, Litchfield 

Chef Matthew Delongis, Corporate Executive Chef for Market Hospitality Group, brings over 20 years of culinary expertise. He oversees 11 Connecticut restaurants, including Market Place Kitchen & Bar and Mercato Italian Kitchen, leading menu development and ensuring quality and consistency. Known for his innovation and leadership, he plays a key role in shaping the group’s culinary vision and success. @marketplace.kitchenandbar

Chef David DiStasi
Materia Ristorante, Bantam 

Chef David DiStasi, of Materia Ristorante in Bantam, brings a refined, ingredient-driven approach to Italian cuisine. A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, he honed his craft at Blue Hill at Stone Barns before returning to his Connecticut roots. At Materia, he focuses on seasonal ingredients and modern techniques, creating elegant, thoughtful dishes in a warm, minimalist setting. @double_d224

Chef Cedric Durand
The Pink House, West Cornwall 

Chef Cedric Durand, Executive Chef at The Pink House in West Cornwall, has worked at renowned restaurants, including Le Gratin for Daniel Boulud in NYC and Juliette in Brooklyn. With training under Michelin-starred chefs Yannick Delpech and Michel Portos, Chef Durand brings a refined, seasonal approach to his menus, showcasing local ingredients and earning acclaim for his culinary creativity. @thepinkhousect

Born and trained in France Cedric has worked in Michelin Star kitchens around the world. He now uses this experience and passion to highlight the local farmers and produce of Litchfield County at The Pink House.

Chef John Gapasin
The Abner, Litchfield 

Chef John Gapasin is an experienced culinary professional with a history of working in the hospitality industry. He has held various positions, including executive roles, and has experience in kitchen management and dish preparation. His background includes working at notable establishments, contributing to his expertise in delivering quality dining experiences. @theabnerhotel

Chef Cecilio Garcia
La Guera, Morris 

Chef Cecilio Garcia, a seasoned culinary professional, co-founded La Guera Cantina in Morris, Connecticut, alongside Erin Vasquez. After three successful years operating a food truck, they transitioned to a brick-and-mortar location at 5 Watertown Road, offering a vibrant menu that includes tacos, burritos, and birria. Chef Garcia’s dedication to authentic Mexican cuisine has garnered positive reviews from patrons.

Chef Anna Gowan and Lance Feola 
Kingsley Tavern, Kent 

Anna Gowan and Lance Feola are both native to Litchfield County, and have dedicated themselves to creating fine, approachable food, showcasing the best local ingredients. @kingsley_tavern

Chef Bolivar Hilario
Community Table, New Preston 

At Community Table, Chef Bolivar weaves his Mexican heritage with inspired Japanese and French-style cooking for a healthy approach to modern, local cuisine. His dishes highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients, with a focus on bold flavors and sustainable practices. Chef Bolivar’s passion for culinary innovation and his dedication to using locally sourced produce create an exceptional dining experience. @bol1var_

Chef Dino Kolitsas
Greca Mediterranean Kitchen + Bar, New Milford 

Chef Dino Kolitsas is the chef/owner of the award-winning Greca Mediterranean Kitchen + Bar in New Milford and the director of The Silo Cooking School. With a passion for Mediterranean cuisine, Chef Kolitsas brings bold flavors and innovative techniques to his dishes. His commitment to culinary excellence has earned him recognition, while The Silo Cooking School fosters a love of cooking in the community. @greca.med

Chef Gabe McMackin
Chef Gabe McMackin is a Michelin-starred chef known for his innovative approach to American cuisine. He earned his Michelin star as the chef and owner of The Finch, a Brooklyn-based bistro that garnered acclaim for its seasonal, ingredient-driven menu. Prior to that, McMackin honed his skills at renowned establishments such as Blue Hill at Stone Barns, Gramercy Tavern, and Roberta’s. His culinary journey reflects a commitment to creativity and excellence in the kitchen. @gabemcmackin

Chef Daniel Meissner
Pointy Snout

Chef Daniel Meissner has been working in professional kitchens since the age of 13. After graduating from the International Culinary Center in 2015, he went on to further develop his skills in the high intensity spaces of Michelin-starred fine dining kitchens like Noma, Fäviken, and The Finch. Currently, Daniel is the executive chef at Willa in Millerton, NY where he cooks with seasonality as a guiding force. His intentions are to responsibly source food from small producers in the North East. He wishes to build relationships with the farmers that grow our vegetables, fruit, herbs and raise our meat. In this pursuit of flavor and friendship, it is his goal to create tasty food that showcases the hard work of these individuals. @acooksjourney

Chef Paul Pearson
White Hart Inn, Salisbury 

Chef Paul Pearson, originally from York, England, brings a refined yet approachable culinary style to The White Hart Inn in Salisbury. After training in various hotels and restaurants in the UK, he worked in Bermuda before moving to the U.S.His experience includes leading kitchens at Blantyre in Lenox, North Pond in Chicago, and Seasons at the Ocean House in Rhode Island. At The White Hart, Chef Pearson emphasizes seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, collaborating with local farms like Whippoorwill Farm and Green Hollow Farm. He also oversees the inn’s Provisions café and the popular Wednesday night wood-fired pizza program. @pavypearson

Chef Carlos Perez
@ the Corner, Litchfield 

Chef Carlos Perez, a Woodbury native, leads The Corner in Litchfield with award-winning, farm-to-table cuisine. His culinary approach blends artistry and bold flavors, creating memorable dishes that highlight locally sourced ingredients. Chef Perez’s innovative style has earned him recognition, and his dedication to seasonal, fresh food is at the heart of every plate he serves. @chefcarlosperez

Chef Carlo and Michelle Pulixi
Geppetto Osteria e Bisteccheria, Torrington 

Chef Carlo Pulixi, originally from Sardinia and trained in Rome, co-owns Geppetto Osteria e Bisteccheria in Torrington with his wife, Michelle. Together, they bring authentic Italian cuisine to Connecticut, drawing from their extensive experience, including their previous venture, Convivium Osteria in Brooklyn. Their Torrington restaurant offers a warm, rustic atmosphere and a menu inspired by regional Italian flavors. @geppettoct

Kate Redin
New Curds on the Block, Oakville 

Kate Redin is the founder of New Curds on the Block, an all-American cheese shop in Oakville specializing in Northeast-made cheeses. She combines her passion for fermentation and local food systems to support regional agriculture. Through her business and educational appearances, she promotes access to and appreciation of quality cheese and dairy products. @newcurdsontheblock

Chef Zach Redin
To the Gills, Oakville 

With over 15 years of culinary and fish market experience, Zachary is an expert in sourcing and preparing fresh seafood. His keen eye for quality and trends has made him a go-to for seafood lovers. Zachary’s passion for the craft shines through in every dish, and he continues to stay ahead of the curve in the seafood industry. @to.the.gills

Chef Mike Sorensen
Sparrow, New Milford 

Mike Sorensen, a San Francisco Bay Area native and culinary school graduate, refined his chops working alongside James Beard Award winning chefs in Orlando, Florida and Houston, Texas. Currently he is teamed up with successful Chef/Owner John Bourdeau at acclaimed Sparrow Bar + Restaurant in New Milford, where the two highlight their authentic and sometimes whimsical approach to globally inspired cuisine and cocktails. @sparrownewmilford

Thank you to the local farms that provide food for our event.

Autumn Harvest, Earth’s Palate farm, Hungry Reaper Farm, Why Not Farm, Chanticleer Acres, Riverbank Farm, Calf and Clover Creamery, Fort Hill Farm, Hoadley Hills Farm, Oracle Mushroom, North West Corner Farm, Daffodil Hill Growers, Vibrant Farm,  and Maple Bank Farm.

THE SPONSORS

The Abner Hotel, Litchfield County Pools, The Litchfield Inn, Litchfield Luxury Property Management, Northeast Fine Flooring Design,  New Morning Market, Pointy Snout Caviar, Rumsey Hall School,  South Farms, William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty, and Winvian.
Please reach out to us at info@litchfieldmagazine.com if you are interested in becoming a sponsor. THANK YOU!

Newport, Rhode Island doesn’t need much fanfare. Its weathered shingle homes, cliffside paths, and quietly storied past speak for themselves. For those looking for a refined and visually thoughtful place to stay, The Gardiner House, which opened in fall 2023, offers a fresh way to experience this historic town.

Co-owned by Newport residents Howard Cushing and Wirt Blaffer, the 21-room boutique hotel draws heavily from Cushing’s family history and artistic legacy. One of the hotel’s standout features is a stunning two-story mural that climbs the wall beside the winding central staircase. This digital recreation is based on a mural painted in 1905 by Cushing’s great-grandfather, renowned American artist Howard Gardiner Cushing, in the entryway of the family’s Newport estate, The Ledges. The original painting still exists today. For the hotel, the mural was reinterpreted in collaboration with twenty2 wallpaper + textiles, a Litchfield County, Connecticut-based design studio known for its contemporary take on classic textile arts. This partnership beautifully ties together history, art, and modern design in a way that feels both personal and timeless.

On arrival, we explored nearby shops and galleries before settling in for dinner at Flora, the hotel’s main restaurant. The interiors are beautiful and elegant, and the food, led by Chef Ted Gidley, is polished without pretense. Our meal featured scallops with ginger-carrot purée, crab bucatini, and a simple, perfect olive oil cake. Service was warm, professional, and friendly.

The next morning, after indulging in avocado toast and poached eggs in Flora’s airy dining room, we set off for the Cliff Walk, Newport’s well-known path that edges the coastline and offers dramatic views of both the ocean and some of the town’s storied homes. From there, we toured The Breakers, the 70-room Italian Renaissance-style mansion built by the Vanderbilt family in 1895, still jaw-dropping in scale and detail. A place where no detail was spared.

Just a few blocks inland, we visited the recently reopened International Tennis Hall of Fame Museum, housed in the historic Newport Casino. The museum has been thoughtfully updated with new exhibits and interactive features, making it a must-visit for tennis fans and history buffs alike. The museum also hosts the prestigious Hall of Fame induction ceremonies and various tennis-related events throughout the year, keeping the spirit of the sport alive in this charming coastal town.

Lunch was quick and casual at Yagi Noodles, where we enjoyed pork dumplings, freshly made ramen noodles, and matcha boba tea before boarding an afternoon sailing with Gansett Cruises, which offers narrated tours of the harbor. From the water, Newport’s dramatic shoreline, bobbing sailboats, and landmark homes tell a different version of the town’s layered past.

Back at the hotel, we joined local resident Chef Kevin Des Chenes — a Newport-based culinary personality known for his appearances on Top Chef and The Today Show, and for cooking for celebrities and political leaders alike — for a cocktail in the richly colored, green lacquered lounge. Des Chenes recommended we have dinner that night at The Cooke House, a longtime favorite for fresh oysters, lobsters, and seafood dishes in a cozy, historic setting. 

In a town where history is often viewed through velvet ropes and audio tours, The Gardiner House offers a quieter, more layered experience. It’s a stay grounded in place yet attuned to design — a thoughtful, beautifully executed addition to the Newport landscape.

For those planning a visit, Newport’s vibrant cultural calendar includes the Newport Jazz Festival, the Mansions Food and Wine Festival, and the Folk Festival, and of course the summer sailing season, each bringing a unique energy to this coastal town. discovernewport.org

By Wendy Carlson

Photo by Stephen Schumacher

It’s early morning in the Great Mountain Forest, and the only sounds out here are the call of a hawk, the crunch of hemlock needles underfoot, and the rustle of a breeze in the trees. The town of Norfolk is nicknamed “the icebox of Connecticut” for its frigid winters; this stretch of woods feels like it should be called “the quietest place in the world.”

The Great Mountain Forest encompasses 6,300 acres of contiguous forestland and seven ponds in Norfolk and the town of Canaan. It is truly vast. Walking all of its 13 trails takes commitment—although even a short foray into the forest offers a glimpse into its history. Public access is available at 201 Windrow Road in Norfolk, and near 200 Canaan Mountain Road in Canaan; there are trail maps at each gate.

Much of the forest is relatively young. From the late 1700s to the 1800s, the area was stripped of trees; the wood was used to make charcoal for blast furnaces to smelt iron ore. There are, however, remote sections that were too difficult to reach for logging—sparing trees that are now more than 350 years old. 

Wildfires also reduced much of the forest, leaving behind fields and the ghostly remains of the iron-making community: colliers’ hearths, house foundations, fireplaces, unmarked graves. Early agricultural use of the land created fields and pastures, further reducing woodland. At one time, there was even a golf course in these woods.

The effort to reforest and restore the wildlife to the land began in 1909, when Starling W. Childs and former U.S. Senator Frederic C. Walcott purchased 400 acres in Norfolk, and founded what later became known as the Great Mountain Forest. Over time, they acquired more acreage; eventually the Childs family took over full ownership and stewardship. In 2003, a conservation easement was placed on the land, through the U.S. Forest Service and the Connecticut Division of Forestry. Today the forest is owned and managed by the Great Mountain Forest Corporation, a nonprofit, private-operating foundation.

Logging roads wind through the forest to allow selective lumbering, an effort to ensure the health of the trees. For decades, maples have been tapped to make maple syrup. Witch hazel is harvested here, and sold to Dickinson Brands. Since 1932, daily readings have been taken at the National Weather Service Cooperative Observation Station, which was established by Starling Childs’ son, “Ted” Childs.

Ted, an avid naturalist and a graduate of Yale, also deeded 8 acres to his alma mater in 1941 to establish a camp for field training students in the university’s forestry program. The relationship between Yale and the forest continues today, at the original campus in the middle of the forest (which the Great Mountain Forest staff manages and uses for public programs).

A walk in these quiet woods reveals its rich past, and a chance to see rare plants and wildlife. Moose have reestablished habitats here, so keep your eyes peeled for their massive antlers! 

—greatmountainforest.org

Culinary Bloom

Something delicious is happening in Morris. Once a sleepy town known mainly for rolling hills and quiet charm, it’s fast becoming a hotspot for food lovers thanks to a burst of creative culinary energy centered around Pasture at South Farms. 

Anchoring the movement is South Farm Kitchen, setting up an adorable food truck that will serve up inventive bites for the season and offer on-site catering. They’re joined by bold, flavorful newcomers like The Codfather, a seafood lover’s dream, and the beloved returning Hindsight BBQ truck, where smoky, slow-cooked meats steal the show. Beyond the Pasture, the revitalization continues. Penny Farthing Tea Room brings vintage English charm and scones, while the new La Güera Mexican Cantina delivers authentic cuisine, a full bar, and a lively patio perfect for summer nights. The seasonal Popey’s deli and ice cream shop has expanded its space, making locals rediscover the art of the perfect sandwich. Located right behind Popey’s,  don’t miss the new Bill’s Brick Oven Pizza—wood-fired and packed with flavor, available for takeout only. Pair any meal with a bottle from Wise Old Dog Wine Shop, or pick up seasonal produce at Hungry Reaper Farm Stand, open Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. Morris may be small, but its flavor is big—and growing.

By Michelle Madden  

“Jazz is fundamentally improvisational. When you see musicians performing these unpredictable, complex harmonies, it’s magic. It’s incredible that humans can do this,” says Vita West Muir, the visionary founder and executive/artistic director of Litchfield Performing Arts—the organization that runs the jazz camp and jazz festival (celebrating its 30^th anniversary this summer).

Muir and her late husband, Arthur Muir, came to Litchfield in 1976. They bought a Colonial on North Street with a living room that could hold a hundred, and began hosting classical concerts. “Our home was always a hotel for visiting artists,” says Muir.  They ran the series until the audience began to die—literally. So they pivoted to jazz to attract a younger audience.

The festival was, until 2018, held outdoors—most recently at the Goshen Fairgrounds (where Art was known to jump in and mow the lawn). It eventually swelled to a peak of 9,000 guests. “We had to tell people to stop bringing marshmallows. They would light them and throw them,” says Muir.

With age, the event has mellowed and—with no risk of projectiles—it is now held at the Tisch Family Auditorium at The Frederick Gunn School. This year, the Emmet Cohen Trio will open. In 2019 the American Pianist Association crowned Cohen with their top award. 

Matt Dwonszyk—one of the fastest-rising, most in-demand bassists alive—and his sextet will follow. The guitar duo of Pasquale Grasso and Frank Vignola will also grace the mainstage. Grasso first performed at the festival in 2022 with Samara Joy (who at the age of 25 had already collected five Grammys). The legend Pat Metheny is quoted as saying of Grasso, “The best guitar player I’ve heard in maybe my entire life.” Grasso and Vignola have residencies at the jazz clubs Mezzrow and Birdland Theater in New York City, respectively. Saturday will close with the world-class clarinetist/saxophonist Anat Cohen.

Past icons have included Tony Bennett, Ray Charles, Dave Brubeck (the father of “cool jazz”), Roy Haynes (one of the most recorded drummers in jazz), Wayne Shorter (who teamed up with Miles Davis), and newcomers like the nine-time Grammy winner Christian McBride. Diana Krall performed twice in the late 1990s. “Two years later she was playing with Tony Bennett and we couldn’t afford her,” laughs Muir.

While known for the festival, the soul of the organization—and closely integrated with it—is the jazz camp, one of the most respected in the country. Ensembles perform in the tent on opening night; once their careers take off, the young musicians often land on the festival stage—and the Grammy stage. Nicole Zuraitis attended camp as a trombonist, and has performed multiple times at the festival; she has been nominated three times, and won in 2024. Zaccai Curtis, a pianist and composer, came to the camp when he was 13. He has performed at the festival several times and won Best Latin Jazz Album this year.

So, come. Take a seat. Open your mind—and witness magic. (The festival runs July 25-27.)—litchfieldjazzfest.com

By Clementina Verge

When Megan Searfoss founded Ridgefield Running Company in 2014—a run-specialty store—she launched a lifestyle movement. What began as a personal quest for premium gear and authentic connections has grown into CT Run Co., a refined retail experience where performance and luxury converge, just outside Litchfield County.
“I realized I didn’t have my people,” Searfoss recalls about moving to Connecticut 20 years ago and dedicating herself to running after raising three daughters. “I wanted a community, a place with real expertise. But nothing like that existed, so I created it.”

Under Searfoss’ leadership, CT Run Co. has earned repeated acclaim as America’s Best Running Store and honored as Store of the Year. Locations in Ridgefield, Darien, Stamford, and, the newest, in Brookfield, offer elevated footwear, apparel, and accessories from iconic athletic brands, designed to support every stride.  Brookfield Running, conveniently situated just down Route 202 from Litchfield, brings its signature blend of expert service and high-performance style closer than ever to northwest Connecticut. At CT Run Co., clients receive personalized attention through advanced 3D foot scanning and gait analysis, allowing expert staff—trained in both performance and injury prevention—to recommend footwear tailored to individual biomechanics. Whether addressing Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, osteoarthritis, or simple lifestyle needs, the goal remains the same: “Happy feet mean a happy life,” says Searfoss.

“We don’t just sell gear; we equip people to move better, live healthier, and enjoy the outdoors,” she adds.
A competitive athlete, Searfoss brings significant experience to CT Run Co., including Ironman World Championships and more than 20 marathons, including Boston. Also an author, she inspires a brand rooted in wellness and tailored experiences.

With stores near trails like Still River Greenway, a short drive from Litchfield, Searfoss invites clients to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the serenity of the outdoors. 

“Movement outside is essential,” Searfoss emphasizes. “It offers clarity and calm, more than any treadmill. Running, walking, or hiking nurtures the body, mind, and soul.”
CT Run Co. embodies the philosophy of Constant Forward Motion, symbolized by the triskelion—a Celtic emblem dating back to Neolithic times. Depicting three legs in perpetual movement, this ancient symbol represents progress, growth, and the journey toward deeper life understanding. For CT Run Co., it reflects more than physical motion; it signals a commitment to evolving health, happiness, and perspective.

These ideals are evident through the company’s philanthropic focus. Signature events include Frozen Feet Challenge—a winter initiative promoting daily activity—along with monthly group runs and training programs. The brand also champions causes like Kicks for Kids, providing quality footwear to underserved local student-athletes, reinforcing its mission to empower the next generation. Ultimately, luxury isn’t about exclusivity—it’s about care.
“In today’s digital world, genuine human connection is becoming increasingly rare,” she reflects. “Our stores offer more than products—they offer belonging. It’s being seen, understood, and supported. At CT Run Co., everyone has a place. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just lacing up for the first time, we’re here to support you every step of the way.””—ctrunco.com

By Clementina Verge

Tucked between the tree-lined hills of Kent, a quiet yet powerful creative movement is unfolding. At its heart is Cedric Gairard, a Paris-born documentary photographer and creative director whose work has spanned continents and iconic brands—but who now turns his lens toward something more personal: the shared spirit of artistic community.
Gairard’s newest venture, FotoDiary, is both a gallery and a multidisciplinary creative studio—a thoughtfully curated haven for artists, thinkers, and storytellers. Recently opened in Kent Barns—a small cultural enclave known for its galleries and artisanal shops—the distinctive space is quaint but grand in scope, not merely to showcase art, but to nurture it. While individual artistic vision remains essential, FotoDiary transforms creativity into a shared experience, fostering a vibrant community where expression is deepened through collaboration.

“I’ve always been interested in the human story,” says Gairard. “FotoDiary is a resource—a hub—for artists who want to collaborate, not compete.”
Born in Paris, Gairard began traveling at 20, driven by curiosity and a restless visual mind. Three decades in global advertising took him through creative epicenters like Paris, Amsterdam, and London—working with brands like Adidas, Coca-Cola, and Oatly—helping them expand, redefine, and reinvent. It was thrilling work—but it came with a growing desire to reconnect with something more grounded.

“Reinvention,” he says, “became a mirror. The more I helped others define their vision, the more I started to see mine.”
After 17 years building a life in New York, Gairard and his wife, Eliza, returned to her roots in Litchfield County. In Kent, he found stilliness, space to photograph night skies and forests, and to capture “the connection and interdependence of humanity’s delicate balance with nature.”

Now, with FotoDiary, Gairard distills decades of creative production experience into something more personal, yet no less ambitious.The studio-gallery champions a philosophy of creative collaboration, where artists, clients, and storytellers converge to transform production challenges into opportunities. More than just a gallery, FotoDiary is a living workspace—an incubator for ideas where individual talent is celebrated, and creative partnerships are cultivated. 

The studio became a response to a creative hunger Gairard recognized across disciplines: photographers, filmmakers,writers, illustrators, set designers—artists in motion—yearning not just for work, but for belonging. Now, he builds bridges between the inspired and the inspired-by, and in the age of digital saturation, Gairard is advocating for something rare: depth. 

“The studio wants to represent a diverse group of local creatives and image-makers,” Gairard shares. “The idea is to create opportunities—real ones—for artists to grow, and for clients to access work that is not only high quality but grounded in something authentic.”

“Every artist has a unique style, and I’m not here to replicate but to create a space where collaboration thrives over competition,” Gairard says. “Art holds the power to tell stories—stories that are too complex, too fragile, too charged. It bridges the gaps, sparks reflection, and invites conversation—and I’m grateful to open that channel.”—fotodiary.com

By Clementina Verge

Renowned for its timeless beauty and tranquility, Lake Waramaug is one of Connecticut’s most cherished and picturesque destinations. Its crystalline waters invite recreation and relaxation, yet this natural splendor is no accident. It reflects decades of meticulous restoration, shaped by science, community, and an unwavering commitment to preservation.

“In the 1970s, it looked like a giant bowl of pea soup,” recalls Christine Adams, a Lake Waramaug Board of Directors member whose family has kept a cottage on the lake for five generations.
Tom McGowan concurs, reminiscing about the days when stepping into the lake meant surrendering to its opaque depths. At the time, algae blooms fueled by phosphorus runoff clouded waters, limiting visibility to just two to four feet. Swimming waned, boating became difficult, property values declined, and the ecosystem neared collapse.
Out of this crisis, McGowan assembled the Lake Waramaug Task Force, a grassroots coalition of citizens united by one common goal: To revive the lake. The mission became a model for environmental stewardship. Among the pioneers was Robert Kortmann, whose innovative lake aeration system—a scientific breakthrough, born in his garage—is now used nationwide.
“It’s the best work that’s been done on any lake, in any state, period,” declares McGowan.
This year, as it celebrates its 50th anniversary, the group has rebranded as the Lake Waramaug Conservancy, reflecting its broadened scope and renewed dedication to be a permanent, science-led conservation organization.
“It’s been—and continues to be—a huge effort,” reflects executive director Sean Hayden. Scientific breakthroughs played a pivotal role, he explains, including an award-winning aeration system that revitalizes the lake’s oxygen levels. 

An astounding success has been eradicating non-native invasive aquatic plants—achieved through two decades of mapping and meticulous hand-pulling by divers, who use a suction harvesting system in an approach that demands precision and persistence.
Water visibility has increased to depths of up to 19 feet—a recovery achieved without the chemicals that would have delivered only temporary relief, Hayden notes.
The Conservancy employs limnologists—freshwater scientists—to study the lake’s ecosystem and to guide interventions. From cultivating zooplankton to naturally control algae, to oxygenating the lake and stabilizing stream banks to prevent harmful blooms, the Conservancy’s efforts are vital and innovative, says board chair Lee Vance.
Protecting the lake is “a shared responsibility,” notes treasurer Peary Stafford, who acknowledges the Warren Land Trust’s pivotal role in acquiring the 200-acre Tanner Farm—critical for further safeguarding the lake’s water quality.
Today, Lake Waramaug is a pristine haven for boating, fishing, and swimming, with public beaches serving the towns of Kent, Warren, and Washington. Yet its future is not guaranteed, as climate change pressures threaten even protected ecosystems. 
The Conservancy invites all who value natural beauty to play a role in its preservation—through philanthropy, volunteerism, and advocacy. Every August, a community day offers residents and visitors a chance to engage more deeply, learn, and contribute.
In a world where natural treasures too often vanish too soon, Lake Waramaug stands as a testament to what can be saved through science and stewardship.—lakewaramaug.org