Spring has sprung! Enjoy these things to do in Litchfield County this April. Events include art openings, New Milford restaurant week, workshops, live entertainment, and more.
April 1
New Milford Restaurant Week, NEW MILFORD
New Milford Restaurant Week 2024 is back! April 1 – 15. Restaurants will offer special three-course meals at one of three fixed pricing options for lunch and/or dinner.
April 3
Musical Reading, LITCHFIELD
Join The Litchfield Community Center for a musical story time with the Waterbury Symphony Orchestra on early dismissal day! Enjoy a musical reading of Max Found 2 Sticks featuring a WSO percussionist. Children will experience real live performances up close and enjoy an instrument petting zoo like no other. 1 pm – 2 pm.
Greek Vegan Taste Tour, NEW MILFORD
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian, vegan-curious or an omnivore that enjoys great food, this will be a memorable meal that will inspire and delight! Join Greca as Dino brings guests on a guided tour of this amazing part of Greek cuisine. 6:30 pm.
April 4
The Art of Thriving, TORRINGTON
National arts leader, Randy Cohen, of the Americans for the Arts, will host a lively session about the study and how our investment in the arts provides both social and economic benefits to our region. 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm at the Warner Club.
First Thursdays: Singin’ in the Rain, NORTH CANAAN
The Colonial Theatre in New Canaan will be offering a showing of First Thursdays: Singin’ in the Rain. Adult $5, Child $3, Senior $3, but space is limited, so reserve your seats today! 7 pm.
April 5
Italian Salumi Class, LITCHFIELD
Join Susan Guletsky of “The Discernable Palate” as she leads you through a guided tasting of a carefully curated selection of Italian Salumi. From traditional favorites to artisanal varieties, you’ll explore the diverse and nuanced profiles that make Italian cured meats a culinary delight. 4:30 pm – 6 pm.
The Bill of Obligation, SALISBURY
Dr. Richard Haass is the author or editor of fourteen books on American foreign policy, one book on management, and one on American democracy. His latest book, The Bill of Obligations: The Ten Habits of Good Citizens, was published by Penguin Press in January 2023 and became a New York Times best seller. Join him as he discuss his new book at the Hotchkiss School 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm.
William Faulkner Seminar, VIRTUAL OR LITCHFIELD
Mark Scarbrough, a former English professor and author, will lead in depth literary discussions on The Wild Palms, Light in August, The Sound and The Fury at the Oliver Wolcott Library in Litchfield. Meetings are Fridays, April 5, 12, 19, 26 & May 3 & 10 from 10:30 am -12:30 pm.
The Supper Club, LITCHFIELD
Dive into a unique culinary experience hosted by the acclaimed Chef Evan Hennessey at the Litchfield Inn. With a James Beard nomination and three Chopped wins under his belt, Chef Hennessey brings a tasting menu that marries New England’s seasonal bounty with Scandinavian and Japanese influences. 6:30 pm.
Wait Until Dark, NEW MILFORD
Grab tickets for the upcoming show, Wait Until Dark, at TheatreWorks New Milford. Forty-seven years after WAIT UNTIL DARK premiered on Broadway, Jeffrey Hatcher has adapted Frederick Knott’s 1966 original, giving it a new setting. 8 pm – 10 pm.
April 6
Madness @the Park, WASHINGTON DEPOT
As the NCAA Basketball Tournament whittles from a field of 64 hopefuls to The Final Four teams, The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens invites the community to join the fun and festivities at a free, family-friendly watch party.
Art Reception, LAKEVILLE
The Tremaine Art Gallery at The Hotchkiss School is pleased to present: Dialogue: Art in Conversation, featuring works by Valerie Hammond and Nathaniel (Tate) Klacsmann, from April 2 – June 2, with an opening reception on Saturday, April 6, 4 pm to 6 pm. This exhibition explores the creative processes of two artists whose work reverberates around questions of social inequity, magic, myth, and the environment.
Music in the Nave ,
An evening at the St.Andrew’s Parish House featuring songwriter and guitarist George Potts, along with his good friend Gordon Titcomb. Tickets are available through Eventbrite or at the door. Wine and cheese will be served in a cabaret style environment. 7 pm.
Jeff Summa and the Roasters return to Litchfield American Legion, LITCHFIELD
Jeff Summa and the Roasters return to Morgan-Weir American Legion for another night of psychedelic rock at 7 pm. Playing songs from their critically acclaimed lp “Open Road Ahead” and new originals from their upcoming album along with covers of their influential bands including Grateful Dead, Allman Brothers, Pink Floyd, and much more.
An Evening with Jack Lynn, WATERTOWN
Enjoy an evening with CT’s own Jack Lynn. “Dino was mom’s favorite singer”. “She loved his music and never missed his 10 pm Thursday night TV show – in fact, I never missed it either. As part of his show, Jack performs greatest hits from Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Perry Como, and more. 7 pm – 10:30 pm.
Adult Game Club, NEW MILFORD
Join the New Milford Public Library for the Adult Game Club. In the adult game club, they play a mixture of electronic video games and physical board games. The target audience for these games are young adults to adults (18+). RSVP 1 pm – 3 pm.
Free Movie: Ghostbusters, NORTH CANAAN
The Colonial Theatre in New Canaan will be offering a free showing of Ghostbusters. Tickets are free, but space is limited, so reserve your seats today! 7 pm.
John-Paul Philippe – R E F L E C T O R S, FALLS VILLAGE
Join Marche on Saturday, April 6 for an opening reception featuring John-Paul Philippe and his latest collection of work R E F L E C T O R S. 4 pm – 8 pm.
April 7
Heroes & Headaches, HARWINTON
Explore the hidden history of New England with the pirates that helped shape our nation. Discover the tactics, weapons, and surprising democracy aboard pirate ships in this interactive, informative, and comical program. Harwinton Town Hall. 2 pm.
Free A Cappella Concert, NEW HARTFORD
Join Beekley Community Library for a free performance by Dissipated Eight at 3:30 pm. The group performs all over New England (as well as Bermuda & Costa Rica) at private venues, colleges, and high schools alike. With 70 years behind them, they look forward to continued success through the blending of traditional and contemporary a cappella.
Fire & Ice Workshop, BETHLEHEM
Join the Imagine Health & Wellness Farm for the Fire and Ice Workshop. The fastest way to shift yourself back into your power is to deliberately focus your attention on your breath and cold plunge. 2 pm – 4 pm.
Dan Ringrose Clocktown Brewing, THOMASTON
Head down to Clocktown Brewing and sing along with Dan Ringrose at 2 pm.
April 8
Trials Of World History, VIRTUAL
Explore the Crossroads of History and Law. Watch a ½ hour video lecture followed by a discussion, lead by OWL’s Caroline Ugurlu, based on the presented talk. In this lecture, the focus will be on the first of 12 trials, regarded by scholars as “The Trial of the Major War Criminals.” 1 pm – 2 pm.
April 10
Puccini’s TOSCA, LITCHFIELD
Join fellow opera lovers at the Litchfield Community Center to view and discuss Puccini’s great opera Tosca in a production which has claims to be the best ever. This is the 2012 Royal Opera House production with Angela Giorghiou, Jonas Kaufman, and Bryn Terfel. 6:30 pm – 9 pm.
Revolutionary Design, LITCHFIELD
New England is known for its history and its traditions, but it is also home to some daring and inventive modern designs from some of the world’s leading architects. This program introduces audiences to each architect and walks you through their notable works in New England locales. 3 pm – 4 pm.
Mastering Contacts on iOS, LITCHFIELD
Participants will learn about the possibilities within the iOS Contacts application, review: deleting contacts, adding contacts, and setting up My Card, explore creating and managing lists, managing duplicate entries, syncing with iCloud, sharing contacts, customizing entries, creating contact posters, using Quick Actions, and more. 2 pm – 3 pm.
April 11
Evening Glow Music, LITCHFIELD
All are welcome to join the Litchfield Community Center for relaxing and reflective music to close the day. Alyce Cognetta Bertz, violin & Meg Cognetta Heator, piano. Performances are followed by a reception with refreshments. 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm.
“Einstein Effect” Talk, VIRTUAL EVENT
At 7 pm the David M. Hunt Library will host a FREE virtual program with Benyamin Cohen, author of the book, The Einstein Effect, offering a fascinating look into how Einstein’s genius and science continues to show up in so many facets of our everyday lives including GPS, remote controls, even toothpaste. Register for the Zoom meeting on David M. Hunt Library’s website.
Tarot Tea and Treats, KENT
Join Regina Olson and Co-teacher Gloria Wilder in this mother & daughter team for a fun night of deep conversation and connection at Tarot Tea and Treats. 6 pm – 7:30 pm at the Coffee, Chocolate & Creamery in Kent.
April 12
18+ Trivia Night!, LITCHFIELD
Join the Litchfield Community Center for 18+ Trivia Night ft. Bar Rated Entertainment! 7 pm – 9 pm. 7 pm doors open, games start 7:30 pm. BYOB & Snacks to test your knowledge.
The Comedy Lounge at SALT2.0, TORRINGTON
Join Torrington’s SALT2.0 for a night of laughs brought by some of the country’s hottest comics! They are bringing the funniest comedians in the Northeast to Main St. in Torrington for a night full of laughs! Get your tickets now to see another incredibly talented lineup, and enjoy some of the best food and drink. Doors Open at 7 pm. Show Starts at 7:30 pm.
April 13
MattaTrek, WEST HARTFORD
Mattatuck Museum is hosting their second annual fundraiser called the MattaTrek. Choose between doing a 6k (approx 3.75mi) or the full 20+ miles. Sign up to join the Mattatuck Museum or become a sponsored hiker and help raise funds for Museum programs and exhibitions! 8 am start!
Leonel Morales, Piano, LAKEVILLE
Renowned pianist Leonel Morales returns to Hotchkiss at 7:30 pm. This concert will feature works by Mozart, Schumann, and Barber. Performed in Katherine M. Elfers Hall in the Esther Eastman Music Center, concert is free and open to the public; no ticket reservations are necessary. Seating is first come, first served.
“God of Carnage”, WASHINGTON
Grab tickets to see God of Carnage at The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens. God of Carnage is about two sets of parents; the 11-year-old son of one couple has hurt the son of the other couple with a stick at a public park. The parents meet to discuss the matter in a civilized manner. 6 pm. Directed by Dorothy Lyman.
Yacht Rock Concert, TORRINGTON
Get ready to set sail for a night of smooth vibes and good times at the Warner Theatre’s Second Annual Yacht Rock shindig in the Nancy Marine Studio Theatre. The party kicks off at 6 pm in the Studio Theatre Lobby. Score free bites and sips from Two Roads Brewing Company, Litchfield Distillery, The Cork Fine Wines & Spirits, and more! Anchor Management takes the stage at 7:30 pm for non-stop tunes and dance floor magic.
Comedy Night at Raymond Family Farm, NEW HARTFORD
Join The Raymond Family Farm for an evening of live acoustic music from Willy Smith and then comedy from headliner Michael Somerville. Gates open at 5 pm. Happy Hour (bring your own food and beverage) and music 5 pm – 7 pm. Comedy 7 pm – 9 pm.
April 14
King Lear Performance, LITCHFIELD
What do you call a king who gives up his kingdom? A fool? Or a father ready to pass on the burdens of power? Join actors Stephen Collins and Poornima Kirby for this haunting, darkly funny adaptation of Shakespeare’s timeless classic. 3 pm – 4 pm at the Litchfield Community Center.
Spring Extravaganza, HARWINTON
Get ready to saddle up for a day of excitement and festivities at the Spring Extravaganza Fundraiser! Join Operation Hold Your Horses, Inc for a spectacular event filled with tack treasures, artisan crafts, and an abundance of community spirit. 10 am – 3 pm.
April 18
Art Opening, LITCHFIELD
Join the Oliver Wocott Library for the opening reception of Land & Sky: A Photography and Printmaking Exhibition 5 pm – 7 pm. Artists Wendy Costa and Sally Frank each draw inspiration from the natural world.
April 19
HHG Opening Day, WASHINGTON
Hollister House Garden opens for the season! The garden will be open 1 pm – 4 pm. Plan a visit soon!
Watercolor Workshop, WASHINGTON
Celebrate spring and learn to capture the vibrant colors of tulips! Hollister House Garden is delighted to start off the new season with watercolor artist Betsy Rogers-Knox and one of their favorite flowering bulbs. With step-by-step demonstrations and personal instruction, learn to mix and layer light washes of color to achieve the brilliance of the much-loved tulip flower. 10 am – 3:30 pm.
Friday Feast, LITCHFIELD
Friday Feast & Dancing Feet. Join the Lichfield Community Center for good food and good company. Don’t forget your dancing shoes! 12 pm – 2 pm.
April 20
Barn Talk: Spring Bulbs, WASHINGTON
Daffodils and tulips are the traditional spring stunners, but beyond them lies a dazzling array of untapped spring bulbs. Grecian windflowers, wild hyacinth, starflowers and Roman squills are just some of the potential performers that add excitement and variety to a garden. Learn how to create stunning borders by mixing a variety of bulbs with herbaceous perennials and woody plants for maximum effect. 10 am – 11:30 am at Hollister House Garden.
Taylor Mali Performance, WINSTED
Taylor Mali is a must-see for anyone who loves slams, performance poetry, live spoken word on stage, or stand-up comedy. Doors open at 7 pm with live music.
Sweet History of Honey, HARWINTON
Why do we love honey so much? What makes honey light or dark? Does honey need to be pasteurized? Why does honey crystalize? Learn the answers to these questions and more from Cathy Wilco, second generation beekeeper and owner of the Humble Bee Honey Company. The presentation will be located at the Harwinton Library and will be followed by a honey tasting – yum! This program is free and open to ages 12 and up. Please register.
A Studio Affair: Unleash Your Inner Artist, NEW MILFORD
Are you yearning to express your creativity but don’t know where to begin? Village Center of the Arts is thrilled to announce their inaugural ‘zine series and they warmly invite YOU to join them. You don’t need to be an artist to participate, just the desire to create; simply bring your passion. 6:30 pm – 10 pm.
April 21
Cooking Demo Dinner: Brain-Healthy Cuisine, NEW MILFORD
Join Chef Dino and his team as they teach how to prepare fantastic meals of Greek dishes that promote brain health and longevity. 3:30 pm.
Junk in the Trunk tag sale, NEW MILFORD
Junk in the Trunk is back for Spring! Find something unique at this multi-vendor tag sale. Entry is FREE for shoppers. Shopping hours are 8 am – 2 pm in the front parking lot of New Milford High School. Rain date May 5.
Sound at The Station – Earth Day Sound Bath with Bobbi Soares, NEW MILFORD
Celebrate Earth Day at the Gallery 25 and Creative Arts Studio with a sound bath to reduce stress, improve positive thinking and creativity. Explore the sound of an earth gong as a way to relax, recharge, renew! 11 am – 12 pm.
Free Movie: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, NEW CANAAN
At 2 pm the Colonial Theatre in New Canaan will be offering a free showing of Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl. Tickets are free, but space is limited, reserve your seats today!
Violet & Me Fundraiser, WASHINGTON
Join the Thomas S. Perakos Arts & Community Center for Dorothy Lyman’s moving solo performance that explores themes of family life, feminism, and the artist’s journey. Approximately 1 hour followed by a Q&A with Dorothy. A short reception of coffee, tea, and treats in the TPAAC lobby will follow. 5 pm – 6:30 pm.
April 22
Let’s Talk Gardening, HARWINTON
Spring is here! Join the Harwinton Public Library for their bi-monthly garden discussion group. Bring you questions, seeds, plants and anything else you have to share with the group. 7 pm.
Trials of World History Part 2, VIRTUAL EVENT
Explore the Crossroads of History and Law Part II. Watch a ½ hour video lecture followed by a discussion, lead by OWL’s Caroline Ugurlu, based The Leopold & Loeb Trial. 1 pm – 2 pm.
April 23
Astounding Bible Code, LITCHFIELD
The Litchfield Community Center presents: “The Astounding Bible Code: Can I Predict the Future?” Presentation. The Bible Code was discovered by Dr. Eliyahu Rips, an Israeli mathematician who has cracked the Bible Code by the use of high-speed computers. 1 pm – 2 pm.
Louise Glück Poetry, LITCHFIELD
Celebrate Poetry Month and Louise Gluck’s birthday with a special poetry discussion. 7 pm -8 pm. Richard Deming, poet and friend of Louise Gluck, will lead an exploratory discussion of a selection of Gluck poems. Poems will be available at OWL beginning April 1.
April 24
Daytrip: Riverquest, LITCHFIELD
Experience the beauty and solitude of the lower Connecticut River during this wonderful time of year. With fewer vessels on the water, and the trees and wildlife starting to show their spring colors, it is different than any other time of the year. Naturalists on board narrate and make sure you don’t miss a thing! 8 am – 4 pm.
Great American Song Book, LITCHFIELD
The Litchfield Community Center is hosting an afternoon of Live, Learn, and Lunch with the dynamic duo, Bob & Claudia Hughes. Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies of “The Great American Songbook” as this talented pair brings classic tunes to life in a performance that will transport you through the golden era of music. 12 pm – 1 pm.
Pearls from Carol, MORRIS
Join Albert Ruggiero for his humorous book talk “Pearls from Carol” at the Morris Public Library, at 6:30 pm. The speaker will share the funny yet thought-provoking essays and poems from his late wife Carol. The book is a compilation of 20 years’ writings devotedly collected by the local writers’ group and published by her husband.
April 25
Litchfield Land Trust, VIRTUAL OR LIVE EVENT
Learn what the Litchfield Land Trust does; about local and regional collaborations, and why their work and our partnerships with private landowners is essential for a vibrant future. Identify currently protected lands and discuss regions of strategic importance for future consideration. 7 pm – 8 pm virtual or at the Oliver Wolcott Library.
April 26
Happy Hour Piano with T.J. Thompson ,
The American Mural Project (AMP) proudly presents the new Happy Hour Piano Series, featuring world-class pianists performing in the mural gallery. Held on the fourth Friday of each month, from 5 pm – 7 pm, the piano series offers patrons a time to unwind with a drink from the cash/credit bar, mingle with colleagues, and take in the grand scale of the mural exhibit from three levels.
Candlelight Slow Yoga, WOODBURY
Join Sarah E. Carey for candlelight slow yoga. Life is stressful enough! Healing ought to be simple and create trust between the mind and body. 6:30 pm – 8 pm at The Front Page.
Arts & Fine Crafts Show, GAYLORDSVILLE
At the seventh annual Spring Arts and Fine Crafts Show at the historic Merwinsville Hotel, the organization will offer six days to shop over two weekends before Mother’s Day. The show is on April 26-28 and May 3-5, for three days each weekend from 10 am – 5 pm. Features artwork in glass, photography, jewelry, sculpture, fiber, woodwork, pottery and paintings in watercolors, oil and acrylic.
Exhibit Opening – With Their Busy Needles: Samplers and the Girls Who Made Them, LITCHFIELD
Join the Litchfield Historical Society for the opening reception of their newest exhibit “With Their Busy Needles: Samplers and the Girls Who Made Them” from 6 pm – 8 pm. The opening is free and open to the public. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served.
April 27
Arts Connected, NEW PRESTON
Join Spring Hill Vineyards for an interactive event all about celebrating and supporting the arts. Immerse yourself in a world of creativity as they showcase local artists, musicians, and performers. Plus, indulge in delicious food and drinks from across the region. 5 pm – 8 pm.
Understanding Trees, WASHINGTON
Join us on a special guided walking tour of Hollister House Garden’s landscape and forest trees. A tree’s physical characteristics are a living record of its responses and adaptations to changes in its environment over time. Using these clues, conservation arborist Chris Roddick will teach you how to piece together a tree’s unique history. 9:30 am – 11:30 am.
Jake Swamp and the Pine, NEW HARTFORD
Beekley Community Library is hosting the band Jake Swamp and the Pine at 7:30 pm. If you like being out in nature, that is the feeling that Jake Swamp and the Pine captures with their music. Doors open at 6:30 pm.
Poetry Reading with Patricia Martin, HARWINTON
April is National Poetry Month. Celebrating with a visit from Patricia Martin, Connecticut’s Beat Poet Laureate! Please join and welcome Patricia and enjoy readings from a selection of her poetry at the Harwinton Library. Coffee and light refreshments will be served. 10:30 am.
An Enchanted Evening, KENT
Indulge in an evening of celebration while making a meaningful difference in our local community. Enjoy music and dancing, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, libations, and a silent auction. 7 pm – 10 pm.
Go Home You’re Drunk / Cat Crash / Don’t Go Outside / Or Anywhere Else, TORRINGTON
Join Howard’s Bookstore for live music with indie legends “Or Anywhere Else, Don’t Go Outside, Cat Crash, and Go Home, You’re Drunk.” 7:30 pm.
New Milford Car Show, NEW MILFORD
The New Milford High School Grad Party committee is excited to be sponsoring its first car show fundraiser! A fun family-friendly day filled with music, food trucks, and of course, awesome cars. All years, makes, and models welcome. 11 am – 3 pm. Rain date is May 4.
HYSB Gratitude Gala, NEW CANAAN
Please join the Housatonic Youth Service Bureau for their second annual Gratitude Gala at the Colonial Theatre. (Timing to be announced) Tickets are available now.
April 28
Spring Plant Sale, SHARON
Plant Sale! Kick off the gardening season with seed-propagated native plants grown by Lindera and Tiny Meadow Farm. This event is a wonderful opportunity to shop offerings from two local nurseries and spend some time in the beautiful Sharon countryside. 10 am-6 pm. Free and open to all.
Walking Tour – To Come to a Land of Milk and Honey, LITCHFIELD
How was Litchfield involved in the Connecticut Western Reserve? From investors to migrants to policymakers. Join Head of Education, Kate Zullo, for a walking tour of Litchfield’s Historic District that visits the homes of families whose lives were impacted by westward expansion. 10 am – 11 am.
Liquid Love Performs the Music of Freddie Hubbard at Woodbury Brewing, WOODBURY
Join Woodbury Brewing for a special evening of jazz music when Liquid Love Performs the Music of Freddie Hubbard. 7 pm – 10 pm.
