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

Forman School in Litchfield County

Forman School empowers students with learning differences through individualized academics, arts, and college preparation.

Forman School, founded in 1930, is an independent, coeducational college preparatory school for students in grades 9–12 and postgraduates with learning differences such as ADHD and dyslexia. Forman’s individualized approach ensures students’ learning differences no longer set them apart. Students thrive academically, develop confidence and self-advocacy, and achieve 100% college placement, preparing them for success beyond graduation.

How do Forman teachers engage students and make learning meaningful for those with diverse learning styles?

At Forman, teachers bring learning to life by tailoring every lesson to the strengths and needs of bright students who learn differently. They use evidence-based strategies — from multisensory instruction and hands-on projects to real-world applications — so students see the relevance and purpose behind what they’re learning. Classes are small and interactive, encouraging curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking, while also embedding executive function skills into daily routines.

What does a typical day look like for a Forman student, and how does it support their growth and development?

At Forman, each day begins with Advisory, connecting students with trusted adults who foster self-awareness, executive function skills, and the school’s values of Truth, Respect, and Kindness. Students then move into small, engaging classes tailored to their strengths, with executive function support embedded throughout. Afternoons offer athletics, arts, leadership, and hands-on activities, while evenings blend study time with community-building. This daily rhythm nurtures empowered, confident learners ready to thrive in college and beyond.

What innovative programs or specialized offerings make Forman School unique in supporting students with learning differences?

Forman’s flagship programs, including the Cognition and Learning Department, which provides small, focused classes in executive function, reading, and metacognition, help students understand their brains and overcome learning challenges through hands-on, individualized instruction.

Q. How do you support students outside of the classroom—socially, emotionally, and creatively?

At Forman, supporting students beyond the classroom is all about nurturing the whole person. Through close-knit dorm communities, student leadership roles, and diverse clubs, students build strong social connections. Emotional well-being is prioritized with counseling services, advisory groups, and executive function coaching that boosts confidence and resilience. Creativity flourishes through vibrant arts programs, hands-on projects, and community showcases, giving every student space to express themselves and grow.

Can you share a recent success story that reflects the impact your school has on students?

Ben Wildstein ’22 interned with Forman’s Cognition and Learning team this summer. His Forman experience contributed to his decision to study neuroscience at Connecticut College. During his internship, Ben helped develop a tool to track learning strategies, time management, and organizational skills, and shared his perspective as a student who learns differently at an education conference.

What are your class sizes and student-to-teacher ratios?

Class sizes average eight students, which enables teachers to track challenges and growth closely. Meanwhile, the student-to-teacher ratio is 4:1, which allows for individualized learning. With effective guidance and support, students become confident self-advocates, gaining critical skills for lifelong success.

How can families learn more or arrange a visit?

Email admission@formanschool.org or call the Office of Admission at 860.567.1802. formanschool.org/inquire

Arch Bridge School in Bethlehem Empowers Students

Arch Bridge School in Bethlehem offers integrated academics and therapy, empowering emotionally challenged students to thrive.

Founded in 1990, the Arch Bridge School at Wellspring offers a unique, deeply individualized approach to education and therapy. Rooted in a belief in each student’s inherent worth and potential, the school serves emotionally challenged youth by nurturing their inner strengths and fostering lasting personal and academic growth.

What is the mission or core philosophy that drives your school?

At Wellspring’s Arch Bridge School, we believe in the uniqueness and dignity of every individual. Our goal isn’t just external adjustment but also helping students access the inner strengths and potential—the “wellspring” of their being—that lead to a stable, creative, and fulfilling life.

How did the school begin, and how has it evolved?

The Arch Bridge School was originally created to support adolescent residents at Wellspring. Over time, we opened our doors to students from the broader community with emotional and behavioral challenges. We’ve grown to meet these needs with a comprehensive blend of therapeutic and academic services.

What makes your school stand out from others in special education?

Our integrated approach sets us apart. Every student receives an individualized education plan supported by a team of educators, clinicians, and therapists. This close collaboration allows us to support both academic and emotional growth in a way that’s hard to find in traditional school settings.

Who is the ideal student for Arch Bridge School?

We serve middle and high school students who face emotional or psychological challenges that make it difficult to succeed in standard educational environments. Many of our students live with anxiety, depression, trauma, or neurodiverse conditions and benefit from our calm, structured, and deeply supportive approach.

How do you support students academically and emotionally?

Our accredited academic program meets state standards and is highly personalized. Small class sizes and experienced special education teachers allow students to work at their own pace. Integrated therapeutic support is built into each school day, helping students build emotional regulation, self-esteem, and confidence alongside their studies.

What role does your clinical team play in a student’s school life?

Our staff includes clinicians, social workers, and expressive arts therapists who collaborate closely with educators. Together, they create a consistent, supportive environment throughout the day. We also work with families, offering therapy and guidance to support the student’s progress at home as well as at school.

Can you share a recent success story that reflects the impact your school has on students?

One former student recently shared this heartfelt update: “I’ve been thinking about my time at Wellspring and wanted to share where I am now. I’m studying psychology and neuroscience at a university in England, and hope to pursue research in the field. Everyone at Wellspring helped me see how amazing life can be. I still spend at least three hours a day outdoors; nature brings me the same peace I felt during my time at Wellspring.”

What would you say to parents considering Arch Bridge for their child?

If your child is struggling and needs more support than a traditional school can offer, we encourage you to explore what we do. This is a place where students are seen and supported as whole individuals. We welcome families to visit and see the difference a truly integrated approach can make. For inquiries, call 203-266-8029 or go to wellspring.org. 

Westover School Empowers Girls to Lead

Westover School in Middlebury empowers girls through leadership, creativity, and academic excellence in a supportive community.

Westover School is a girls-centered boarding and day school for grades 9-12 located in Middlebury, Connecticut. Founded in 1909, visionary educator Mary Hillard and architect Theodate Pope imagined a world for women bigger and bolder than the one before them. With a mission to empower students to lead lives of consequence, Westover blends tradition with innovation, from pioneering one of the nation’s first high school STEM programs to offering distinctive global learning opportunities. Today, the school continues to shape confident, compassionate leaders who carry its trailblazing spirit into the world and beyond.

What sets your school apart?
At Westover, every scholar, artist, problem-solver, and leader is a girl—making students the central characters in their own stories. Within a close-knit, empowering community, they discover their passions, voice, and leadership through programs like Women in Science & Engineering (WISE), the Westover Institute, and the Rasin Center for Global Justice. Students develop confidence, creativity, and a sense of purpose, guided by a culture that prioritizes curiosity, collaboration, and resilience in all areas of learning and life.

Student experience
At Westover, students are excited to come to school each day. With a mix of day students and domestic and international boarders, our community is built intentionally so every student can be authentically themselves. Small classes and close relationships with teachers anchor the educational experience, while signature programs, arts, athletics, and clubs spark curiosity and fuel passions. Whether taking center stage in a play, trying out for the volleyball team, or leading a club on an issue that matters, each day brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and lead.

Signature programs
Westover’s signature programs in STEM, finance, and global justice extend learning beyond the classroom. Students begin with Creative Problem Solving in WISE, explore financial fluency through FIRE (Financial Independence, Readiness & Empowerment), and engage with global issues through the Rasin Center. Programs like the Westover Institute and Oxford Tutorial cultivate independent thinking, intellectual curiosity, and confidence, preparing students to take on leadership roles locally and globally, while encouraging meaningful exploration of their interests.

Support beyond the classroom
Students are supported through advisory programs, small classes, and partnerships with the JED Foundation. Residential life, wellness initiatives, clubs, and robust arts programming foster creativity, resilience, and community. Every student is encouraged to explore passions, develop talents, and feel known and empowered socially, emotionally, and creatively, building relationships and skills that last a lifetime.

Teachers and professional growth
Westover cultivates a culture of lifelong learning through robust professional development, knowing that when teachers grow, so do students. Innovative programs like the Westover Institute allow teachers to explore interests while blending tradition with new approaches. In turn, they spark curiosity, creativity, and engagement,  inspiring students to lead lives of consequence.

Recent success story
Westover’s AP Environmental Science program exemplifies student initiative. In the 2024 Project Green Challenge, students competed globally, placing third overall, while Sarah Q. ’26 was recognized as a Top 10 Finalist internationally. Inspired by her participation at the San Francisco Eco-Summit, she launched Style Cycle, a student-led swap shop promoting sustainability, creativity, and community—now a beloved staple on campus.

Learning environment and visiting Westover
With an average class size of 12 and a 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio, Westover offers personal attention, lively discussion, and deep engagement. Advisory, one-on-one conferencing, and the Oxford Tutorial Model further support student growth. Families interested in learning more or arranging a visit can contact admission@westoverschool.org or visit westoverschool.org.

Ruby Hatfield’s Historic Rowing Win

Ruby Hatfield and Rutgers women’s rowing make history, winning the Island Challenge Cup at England’s Henley Royal Regatta.

Ruby Hatfield has always been a competitor—from youth soccer, lacrosse, and basketball in Litchfield’s public schools to the moment she joined a “Learn to Row” day at Litchfield Hills Rowing Club. That introduction launched a ten-year journey in rowing, culminating in a historic collegiate achievement.

Recruited to Rutgers University’s D1 Big Ten rowing program, Ruby competed in more than a dozen races nationwide, including the Big Ten and NCAA Championships. With countless kilometers rowed, hours in the weight room, and endless family support, Ruby built herself into a formidable athlete.

In a first for Rutgers, the women’s rowing program sent boats to the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta in England. Under Head Coach Justin Price, the ‘A’ crew—Maxine Prawl, Elli Arbogast, Kate Pitzel, Beatrice Colclough, Olenka Moran, Mary Ciardiello, Lauren Andersen, Ruby Hatfield, and Louise Dinard—won five consecutive head-to-head races. They defeated top international teams, including Newcastle University ‘A’ in the finals, setting a new course record of 6:45 and securing the Island Challenge Cup.

It was a week defined by power, precision, and teamwork. With this victory, Ruby retires a champion, her name—and her team’s—etched into rowing history.

Says Ruby: “This unforgettable experience was made possible thanks to the generous support of alumni and donors who believed in our team.”

For The Birds; Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy’s 40th Celebration

Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy marks 40 years with record fundraising gala, supporting rare bird protection against avian flu.

Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy celebrated its 40th anniversary on Saturday,  June 28. More than 300 guests—both humans and ducks—enjoyed a gorgeous evening at the Conservancy in Litchfield with dinner, silent and live auctions, and a lively paddle raise. The record-breaking funds raised will ensure the Conservancy can build critical infrastructure to protect the rare and endangered flock from the real and ongoing threat of avian flu.—ripleyconservancy.org

Pilobolus’ Successful Performing Arts Fundraiser

Pilobolus annual ball in Washington raised $370,000 to fund new works, touring performances, and arts education programs.

Photos by Bryan Haeffele

Pilobolus held its annual ball on Saturday, June 7, in Washington, raising $370,000 to support performing arts programming, including new works and educational initiatives. The event, generously hosted at the residence of Susan Haber, featured dining, dancing, and a performance by the company that featured pieces Flight, Bloodlines, and Particle Zoo—all of which feature prominently in the Other Worlds Collection on tour now.



Litchfield’s Revolutionary Past

Explore Litchfield’s Revolutionary War history through landmarks honoring Ethan Allen, Benjamin Tallmadge, and Tapping Reeve.

Litchfield’s Revolutionary Roots in Autumn
By Lydia Kennedy

Photograph courtesy of Litchfield Historical Society

As the crisp autumn air rolls through the Litchfield Hills, there is no better time to take advantage of the region’s history, where the legacies of Revolutionary War figures are preserved in its classic Colonial structures and unforgettable landscapes. 

Begin in Litchfield, home to the nation’s first law school, founded by Tapping Reeve in 1784. This pioneering institution trained nearly 1,000 men, including Aaron Burr and John C. Calhoun. Reeve’s historic schoolhouse still stands, allowing visitors to journey through the 19th-century life of a real Litchfield Law student. 

Continue your adventure north toward the rugged terrain favored by Ethan Allen, a soldier and frontiersman who led the Green Mountain Boys during the American Revolution. Allen’s revolutionary spirit is reflected in the beauty of Connecticut’s western frontier, especially when hiking Bear Mountain or Mount Riga. 

Then there is Benjamin Tallmadge, Washington’s very own spymaster and a native son of Litchfield. As head of the Culper Spy Ring, a covert intelligence network, Tallmadge fed crucial information about British-occupied New York directly to General George Washington. Today, you can walk on the same Green where Tallmadge drilled his militia—and returned to after the war. His Federal-style home still stands just off North Street. 

Connecticut remains dotted with Colonial homes and worn stone walls, all telling stories that intertwine centuries of history with the enduring beauty of New England.

Art News: Kenise Barnes Fine Art

Kenise Barnes Fine Art in Kent presents Higher Than Expected and Game Changers, two exhibitions celebrating pioneering women.

Higher Than Expected, on display from September 13 at Kenise Barns Fine Art in Kent, brings to life a historical photograph of Lucy Smith and Pauline Ranken in 1908 climbing the Salisbury Crags in Edinburgh, Scotland. 

Barred from joining the men’s climbing club on account of their sex, they defiantly formed the first women’s climbing club in Scotland. As experienced climbers and with only a rope between them for safety, they assumed more dangers than the men, by climbing in “traditional” women’s clothing such as long skirts, hats, and blouses. 

Katrina Majkut’s Game Changers, which also opens September 13, celebrates women-identifying athletes and pioneers who have overcome significant bias and discrimination. The portraits celebrate the athletes’ impacts and their leadership roles and references, but rejects the little-known art historical movement of Woman Power Portraits, which dictated that portraits of women in positions of power were only permissible if they mimicked preexisting masculine portrayals or fictional male characters. 

Majkut’s approach rejects these limitations, masculine archetypes, and the male gaze. Her goal is to set new representational standards of women in action with self-actualization, power, strength, fortitude, and perseverance. Using glitter, pearls, beads, and embroidery thread, the artist reveals how crafts—still stereotyped by their patriarchal ideas of femininity and domesticity—can be used to represent power and strength.

Both shows open with a reception on September 13 from 4 to 6 pm.

Kenise Barnes Fine Art, 7 Fulling Lane, Kent

—kbfa.com

50 Things to Do in Litchfield County This Fall

Check out our list of festive fall activities in Litchfield County, from gorgeous leaf-peeping spots, to fall festivals, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and more. 

By Allie Steers, Elizabeth Deegan, and Zandria Oliver

Fall is here, and the exquisite fall foliage, crisp weather, and fall activities make Litchfield County exceptionally magical this time of year. Check out our list of festive fall activities, from gorgeous leaf-peeping spots, to fall festivals, pumpkin patches, corn mazes and more.

1. Go leaf peeping.

2. Take a scenic hike at one of the many preserves and parks around us. Each offers varying levels of trails and points of interest.

3. Get lost in a corn maze.

Bunnell Farm Corn Maze

4. Take a guided e-bike tour with Covered Bridge Electric Bike in West Cornwall or KC&E Adventures and experience the bucolic views that Litchfield County has to offer.

E-bike
KC&E Adventures

5. Take a hayride.

6. Go pumpkin picking at a local farm.

7. Go to a fall festival.

8. Take a spooky walk through the Harrybrooke Park Haunted Trail in New Milford on Fridays & Saturdays starting October 11.

9.  Celebrate at an Oktoberfest Festival.

 

10. Create a spooky wreath and have a glass of wine at Hawk Ridge Winery’s Halloween Wreath Making on October 2.

11. Visit the Railroad Museum of New England in Thomaston and take one of their Autumn Colors Limited train rides to see the fall foliage in Litchfield County.

12. Go apple picking at a local farm.

 

13. Take a trip to the Harwinton Fair, running  October 3-5.

14.  For all the foodies out there, attend Litchfield Magazine’s Savor Litchfield on September 14 at South Farms. Buy tickets!

15.  Attend the Warner Theatre’s Annual Wine and Food Tasting on October 25. Buy tickets here!

16. Take a cemetery tour.

17. Have a scenic picnic, walk or a beautiful photo op at Topsmead State Forest.

18. Pop into the Merwinsville Hotel’s 38th annual Columbus Day weekend arts & fine crafts show and restoration anniversary celebration. October 10-13 and 17-19.

19. Check out Trunk or Treat in New Milford on October 26 and experience the Thriller Flash Mob in the middle of the green.

20. Run or walk in Kent’s largest one-day community event, the 49th Annual Kent Pumpkin Run on October 26. Prizes will be given to the top five most creative costumes.

21. Nothing screams fall quite like sipping on a hot drink from a local cafe. We are lucky to have so many around us. Here are just a few offering delectable eats and drinks that will warm you up:

22. Check out Edward Tufte’s Landscape Sculpture Farm, Hogpen Hill Farms, with five miles of walking trails. Register here.

23. Do the Wigwam Escape room at The Institute for American Indian Studies and learn a new way to interact with history.

24. Visit a local farm stand and pick up some fresh produce while getting in the fall spirit! They are decorated for the fall season and have many fresh produce items!

Maple Bank Farm in Roxbury
25. Join the Litchfield Historical Society at the Tapping Reeve Meadow on October 18 – November 2 for Scarecrows in the Meadow.

26. Bookstore tour, to prepare for colder days-in reading a book by the fireplace or for inspiration to join a book club.

27. Visit the elephant’s trunk flea market.

28. Explore local Farmer’s markets while they’re still open – perfect for finding hot cider and local produce and goods. Here are just a few of the many markets.

29. Take a Pottery class.

30. Go antiquing, here are a few antique stores to stop in!

31. Go see a movie at an outdoor/drive-in movie theater

Four Brothers Drive Inn in Amenia

The Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens in Washington

32. Get relaxed or back in shape with yoga / fitness classes in the area. Here are a few of many fitness / yoga studios in the county!

33. Kayak and fish in Bantam Lake, the largest natural lake in Connecticut covering 947 acres. There are two launches, Beverly’s Marina at the corner of Rt. 209 and Palmer Road in Morris, or White Memorial Family Campground Launch.

34. Take a cooking class to show off your new recipes and skills during the holiday season

35. Spend the day at a beautiful vineyard. Litchfield County has numerous vineyards to enjoy. Bring a picnic blanket and some chairs and relax while sipping on wine and watching the sunset. Check their websites for special live entertainment events. Here are just a few: Hopkins Vineyard in Warren; Spring Hill Vineyards in New Preston; Hawk Ridge Winery in Watertown; Connecticut Valley Winery in New Hartford; Sunset Meadows Vineyards in Goshen.

36. Go brewery/distillery hopping! Here are just a few:

37. Visit local cidery, Park Lane Cider Mill in New Milford for some freshly pressed cider.

38. Visit an animal sanctuary, bird sanctuary, or farm!

39. Take an art class!

40. Go see some live music

41. Go see a play or show at a local theater.

42. Try out Horseback riding!

43. Try curling at Norfolk Curling Club in Norfolk.

44. Have some family fun and go bowling

45. A thrifting excursion to revamp your wardrobe more sustainably

46. Get primped with a new hairstyle or nails at local salons, or even have a spa day! Here are a few places:

47. For history buffs, visit the litchfield history museum

48. Admire the beautiful waterfalls of Litchfield County. Do go chasing waterfalls.

49. Art gallery tour

50.  Visit Great Acres Farm in Goshen for their yearly haunted house; the Forsaken Lands running September 27-November 1.

Savor Litchfield 2025

Join us on Sunday, September 14, for Savor Litchfield, the culinary event of the year at South Farms in Morris!

Savor Litchfield
Litchfield County’s Culinary Event of the Year
Sunday, September 13, 2026 | South Farms, Morris, CT

SAVE THE DATE.
We are currently updating for 2026 and securing EVENT SPONSORSHIPS.

Sign up for SMS Updates Here

Join us for Litchfield Magazine’s Savor Litchfield on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026, the premier culinary event held at the beautiful South Farms in Morris. Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon of flavor as Chef John Bordeau of Sparrow in New Milford brings together 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 —all before the main event opens to the public..

Make Savor Litchfield unforgettable with a private table for six. Your group will enjoy reserved seating for the entire event, elevated food and drink offerings, tableside service, a beautifully styled setting, and a special photo opportunity to capture the moment.

A portion of proceeds will benefit area nonprofits. First come, first serve. This event always sells out.

TICKET PRICES: 

GENERAL ADMISSION:  $150
◗ Tastings available for 26 local chefs from 3-6pm
◗ Kid’s Zone, craft cocktails, pop-up shop area

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
We are so grateful that John Bourdeau will again be our lead chef in 2026.
The following list is of some of our 2025 participants. We will update to 2026 list once we have all confirmations in. 

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, oversees 11 Connecticut restaurants with a focus on quality, creativity, and sustainability. A CIA graduate, he trained under Jean-Georges and worked across fine dining and casual kitchens. His innovative menus highlight global flavors, local farms, and his passion for culinary excellence.

@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 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 Tyler Heckman
Belden House and Mews, Litchfield 

Tyler Heckman, a Connecticut native, showcases seasonal ingredients and seafood at Belden with refined, Asian-accented dishes. After a decade in acclaimed NYC kitchens—including El Quijote, Villanelle, and Toro—he returned home to create nuanced, farm- and coast-sourced fare that reflects both classical technique and his passion to cook.

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 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

Chef Jeff Schmidt
Hindsight BBQ, Waterbury

Hindsight BBQ is an all wood-fired craft barbeque experience. Rated a Top BBQ Joint outside of Texas, by Texas monthly chief editor Daniel Vaughn. @jefftakespics

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 2025 SPONSORS

The Abner Hotel, Christie Caters,  Classic Turf, Dobson Pools, Dunahoo Paradise Wealth Management,  Eyes On Litchfield,  Litchfield County Pools, The Litchfield Inn, Litchfield Luxury Property Management, Northeast Fine Flooring Design,  New Morning Market, Pointy Snout Caviar, Rumsey Hall School, Sea Island Forge, South Farms, The Spa at Litchfield Hills,  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!

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