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

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

By Erik Ofgang

For more than half a century, the Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust has been dedicated not only to preserving open space but also to sharing the experience with as many people as possible. They do so through a variety of programs, ranging from one-day nature-themed events, to camps and educational academies that incorporate curriculum-aligned STEM lessons. 

The trust operates Van Vleck Farm and other conserved properties and nature preserves in Woodbury, Bethlehem, Southbury, and Middlebury. In all, the trust cares for more than 2,000 acres across multiple properties. 

“So many people come here just to walk on the Van Vleck campus, because we’re free and open to the public, every day,” says Vincent D. LaFontan, executive director of Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust. “Many people will come and just walk over by the animal barn, to see our goats and pigs and the chickens and so on.” 

Six of the Flanders properties are open to the public for hiking; they also maintain sanctuary space. The mission of sharing these natural spaces with people of all ages is only possible thanks to the support of the community. Each summer Flanders hosts two major fundraisers. The first is the Flanders Field & Forest 5K, an all-age walk or run in June through Flanders’ picturesque woods and fields. 

Flanders’ second big fundraiser of the year takes place at the end of summer, on the Sunday before Labor Day. Farm-to-Flanders is a gourmet picnic and auction that allows participants to enjoy the culinary creations of the best chefs in Connecticut in an idyllic setting. “We’ve been really lucky. We have a lot of support from restaurateurs and chefs in the area,” LaFontan says. Past participants have included John Bourdeau of Sparrow Bar and Restaurant in New Milford; and Christopher Prosperi, chef/owner of Metro Bis in Simsbury; and Kate Truini and Zachary Redin of New Curds on the Block and To the Gills in Oakville. The auction features trips, artwork, flower arranging, and more. 

Fans of the preserve and trust can also help the organization by purchasing a Flanders membership, or making donations earmarked for specific programs. The Flanders Campership, for example, provides camp and academy tuition for children who would otherwise not be able to afford to attend. “Flanders has been very dedicated to making sure that if a child has an interest in going to summer camp or to our summer academy, we’ll find a way to have their tuition covered if needed,” he says. “It’s a way in which a person can truly feel like they’re making a difference in a child and in a family’s life.” 

Beyond that, LaFontan says, people should take advantage of the opportunities right here. 

“We’re really lucky where we live, all of us who live in western Connecticut. There are some great nonprofit land trusts in our area, and they all have beautiful spaces,” he says. “That’s why so many people from around the world come to visit New England and Connecticut.” 

—flandersnaturecenter.org

We spoke with Boondocks Film Society co-founders Cindy Heslin and Jeff Palfini about their unique pop-up film event series, created with collaborators David Ruchman, Rufus de Rham, and Alix Diaconis.

Boondocks hosts monthly film events across northwest Connecticut, the Hudson Valley, and the Berkshires, often in unexpected venues. Each screening is carefully themed around a chosen film to create an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience.

1. What kind of film events do you produce?

Jeff Palfini: We build themed events around rep-house films. Each screening includes a Happy Hour, with music by local musicians, film-inspired food from area chefs, themed cocktails, and sometimes a Q&A with someone connected to the film. Plus, guests can take home an artist-designed commemorative poster.

2. What inspired you to start Boondocks?

Cindy Heslin: We used to attend a curated film series at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco called Midnites for Maniacs. It showed unexpected double or triple features that took on new meaning with an audience. That experience really stuck with us.

JP: Our personalities were shaped by rep-house programming. We’ve spent countless nights fueled by popcorn and Sprite, discovering what aged well—and what didn’t.

CH: Boondocks was born the moment we stepped into the Colonial Theatre in North Canaan in early 2017.

3. Do you come from film backgrounds?

JP: Not professionally, but we’ve spent so much time in theaters. Soundtracks introduced us to some of our favorite bands. Movies have shaped our sense of humor, style, and creativity.

CH: Boondocks is about more than film. The Happy Hour builds community. People discover new venues, bands, chefs, bartenders, and artists—all tied together by a movie we love.

4. How do you choose your films and themes?

CH: Sometimes the venue drives the choice. When we screened Porco Rosso at the Great Barrington Airport, we had real planes on-site. Other times, we start with a chef or band we want to work with, and find a film that suits their vibe.

JP: We tend to highlight underappreciated movies, especially from the ’90s, and stories about people on the fringes.

5. What’s the most rewarding part?

JP: Those unexpected magic moments—like a moving Q&A, or when the moon rises during an outdoor screening.

CH: We’ve met so many interesting and creative people through Boondocks. Some have become dear friends.

6. Since this is our food issue, what are your favorite food-related film scenes?

CH: Tampopo—especially the surreal scenes between the gangster and his girlfriend. They’re sexy, funny, and utterly strange. And of course, the food in every Studio Ghibli movie is unforgettable.

JP: The scene in Daisies where the girls dance across a feast table. It’s rebellious and chaotic—a punk rock kind of decadence.

CH: The breakfast scene in Big Night is quietly profound. No dialogue, just the act of feeding someone you love. When we screened it, the flipping of the timpano pan was a moment of pure joy.

JP: Honorable mentions: the opening of American Psycho and the mozzarella in carrozza in Bicycle Thieves.

7. Dream film event?

CH: We’d love to screen something on a lake, or in this overgrown abandoned pool near Jeff’s house. We’re always up for making things beautifully complicated.

Keep an eye on boondocksfilmsociety.org and their socials to see what’s planned for this summer and fall.

By Charles Dubow

Litchfield is lucky to have many talented chefs. We are also lucky to have many talented restaurant owners. But there are very few chefs who are also owners. Maybe that explains why this year chef/owner Dennis DeBellis of John’s Café in Woodbury is celebrating his restaurant’s 25th anniversary. 

“It’s a big deal to have a restaurant around for 25 years,” DeBellis says. “I’ve seen the local restaurant landscape change, and become a real foodie destination. I feel honored that people still seem to like our food after all this time—and I’m glad we still keep our customers happy.” 

Best described as New American with an Italian twist, the innovative and well-priced menu always features fresh pastas and pizzas, and entrees that use meats and seasonal produce from area farms. 

A New Milford native and a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, DeBellis started working at The Mayflower in Washington as a line cook; he then worked at the old Inn on Lake Waramaug before landing at John’s Café in 2000. In 2015, he bought the place. 

“It was a big risk, but one that I thought worth taking,” he says. “It’s been a great ride and one that I have no plan on stopping. After all this time, I still love what I do.”

John’s Café, 693 Main St. S, Woodbury —johnscafe.com

By Lydia Kennedy 

The seemingly typical New England town of Woodbury holds a rich history, evident in its well-preserved colonial architecture. Among its most significant buildings is the Glebe House, one of the nation’s earliest historic house museums. Built in 1740, it was home to Woodbury’s first Anglican minister, Reverend John Rutgers Marshall, his wife Sarah, their nine children, and three enslaved individuals.

Their arrival from New York City was met with resistance. Toward the end of the Revolutionary War, the family faced ostracism and hostility due to their faith’s perceived loyalty to the British Crown. After American independence, a secret meeting of Anglicans was held at the house to determine how to practice their religion in the new nation. This gathering led to the selection of Reverend Dr. Samuel Seabury, who was sent to England and later consecrated as the first bishop in the New World. The event marked a pivotal moment in the development of religious freedom and the separation of church and state in America.

In the 19th century, the Glebe House was home to local silversmith Gideon B. Botsford and his family. When the house was later threatened with demolition, the Seabury Society intervened to preserve it. Today, restoration efforts include the revival of its long-lost garden plans, with completion expected in 2027. glebehousemuseum.org

Arethusa Farm Dairy’s Europa Cheese

In a historic achievement, Arethusa Farm Dairy’s Europa cheese has been named Best in Show at the U.S. Championship Cheese Contest for the second consecutive time—something no creamery has accomplished in 40 years. The contest, held in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is the largest technical competition for cheese and dairy products in the country, drawing more than 2,400 entries from across the U.S.

Europa, an aged, traditional-style Gouda, was judged by a panel of 38 experts, who evaluated its texture, flavor, appearance, and overall quality. Winning once is an honor, but securing the title twice in a row underscores the dedication of Arethusa’s cheesemakers and the exceptional milk from local family farms.

Founded by Anthony Yurgaitis and the late George Malkemus, Arethusa Farm Dairy has long been committed to producing high-quality dairy products in Litchfield County. The farm’s cheesemaking process is deeply rooted in tradition while also embracing innovation.

For Arethusa, this win is more than just an accolade; it’s a recognition of the hard work behind every wheel of cheese, from the cows that provide the milk to the craftspeople who bring it to life.—arethusafarm.com