Fantasy of Lights runs Friday, November 18, 2011 to Saturday, January 7, 2012

New Haven, CT - The Fantasy of Lights, presented by Easter Seals Goodwill Industries and sponsored by PSEG, has become a holiday tradition for thousands of families. This dazzling holiday light display illuminates Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven, CT for the holiday season. This year, the Fantasy of Lights will open on Friday, November 18, 2011 and run an extra week, ending on Saturday, January 7, 2012. The Fantasy of Lights is adding the extra week to be open on Three Kings Day, which is celebrated on January 6^th, twelve days after Christmas and often viewed as the last day of the Christmas season. The park opens nightly at 5pm and is open until 9pm on Sundays through Thursdays, and until 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Each display is sponsored by a local area business, corporation, individual or organization. This year, the Fantasy of Lights will feature two brand new displays. A Fire Dog with Santa is sponsored by Honeywell Fire Systems and a Nativity Scene is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. The Nativity Scene display will have a sign in both English and Spanish saying “Keep Christ in Christmas.”

The Fantasy of Lights is also going green this year, with fourteen of the over 60 displays featuring LED light bulbs. These new bulbs not only save energy and electricity, they also make the displays more colorful and more vibrant. We are working with display sponsors to convert more and more displays to LED bulbs in the future.

Admission to the Fantasy of Lights is $10 for passenger cars/family fans, $25 for 15-passenger cans or mini-buses and $50 for full sized buses. All proceeds go to support Easter Seals Goodwill Industries’ mission to enhance employment, educational, social and recreational opportunities for people with disabilities and other challenges.

For more information about the Fantasy of Lights or how you can help out, contact the Development Department at (203) 777-2000 x263, email them at events@esginh.org or visit our website at www.eastersealsgoodwill.org/fantasyoflights.

New Haven, CT

The tree lighting celebration will be highlighted by over 20,000 LED lights on a 65 foot tall Norway spruce tree in the heart of the downtown area. The event will also include children’s activities, as well as food and snacks provided by multiple area organizations. Kids will also get the chance to take pictures with some great holiday characters such as Rudolph and Santa. With one of the largest tree lighting ceremonies in the state of Connecticut, this is certain to attract visitors from all over.

One great part of the December downtown celebration in New Haven is Festival Fridays. On December 3, 10 and 17 the downtown district will be home to a weekly, area wide holiday celebration. These weekly festivals will include wine tastings at multiple stores, as well as free holiday trolley rides. On these Fridays, all area shoppers will receive a 20 percent discount at a local store.

Following up the festival Fridays, the downtown area will be home to some great deals in the form of Saturday Shopping Strolls. Taking place on December 4, 11 and 18 these events will offer up the opportunity to take in over 50 shops in the downtown area. The stores will be offering up excellent promotional deals as well as some treats and beverages. Carolers will also be performing throughout the day, filling the air with holiday music.

The celebration weekends will be closed out by Sunday Singing events on December 5, 12 and 19 in downtown New Haven. A number of local school music ensembles will take to the streets and take part in great performances every Sunday. The ensembles will be singing along two separate streets, both Broadway and Chapel Street.

On top of the weekend events taking place, children will also have the chance to go downtown with their parents and take free pictures with Santa this December. The free photos will be offered at the Yale Barnes & Noble Bookstore in the Broadway District on both Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month of December. All guests will receive a digital and print photograph to keep for the holidays. Certainly the New Haven area will be home to some great holiday events throughout the month, but the downtown districts will be home to some great opportunities every weekend this December.

Jones Winery & Holiday Gatherings Gift Shop

Shelton, CT- This past weekend we kicked off the Christmas season with a visit to Jones Tree Farm in Shelton.  The 400 acre farm features harvest-your-own and pre-cut trees, wreaths, garland, tree stands, pine cones, kissing balls and other traditional Christmas décor.  We went for a short tree – about 4 feet tall, which was perfect for the corner of the living room in our apartment.

Once we cut our tree and loaded it into the back of the car we walked back down the hill to the Winery, which was transformed for the holiday season into the Holiday Gatherings gift shop. There we sampled the wines, bought a few bottles, and picked up a few ornaments for the tree.

If you plan on visiting, I recommend visiting their website for a list of things to remember before getting your tree. In 2011, the cost of a “harvest-your-own” tree is $60 (cash or check only), regardless of size.  Each family that purchases a tree receives a special dated and farm-designed pewter ornament from Woodbury Pewter.

If you’re looking for Santa – plan your visit between 10am to 4pm on Saturday December 17th and Sunday December 18th. Santa’s Annual Family Weekend at the farm will include time for kids of all ages to spend time with Santa and have their traditional pictures taken with St. Nick. Each day will have carols playing, visits from Frosty, crafts for the kids and more. For more information, visit http://www.jonesfamilyfarms.com.

Provence by HM Saffer

Westport, CT – At a time when many businesses are imploding, the Westport River Gallery has expanded by 50% at one of the most heavily visited intersections in the region. Thanks to the many customers who keep business coming, the gallery recently carved out a doorway from the main gallery to the new space, where they have special exhibits, clearance items and full service framing services.  This is in addition to the French, European, American & Asian Fine Art for sale at the gallery. With the recent expansion, there is now even more more space for wedding showers and corporate retreats.   Visitors are welcome to stop in, enjoy a touch of lunch in the building at the Napoli Sul Fiume overlooking the Saugatuck River, and then stroll through the gallery.

SAVE 30% on Fine Art
Readers of the Connecticut Weekender can save 30% on any Fine Art at the Westport River Gallery until Sunday, August 8th with the code WEEKENDER. This promotion excludes any glassworks or items on clearance.  Call 203-226-6934 for details.

SAFFER DELIVERS PROVENCE
A new exhibit is underway featuring new works by award winning artist HM Saffer. His new works on board include Provence (see above), and are a unique blend of Klimt, Van Gogh and his own imagination. H.M. admits he is a character. He enjoys life, his family, a bottle of fine wine at a cafe, and in recent years his works have achieved a much higher-level of international notice. Congrats. He deserves it.  Click for more works.

Painting by Henri Lepetit

LEPETIT PAINTINGS ON DISPLAY
New paintings featuring Saint Tropez, Southport (Connecticut), Paris (see right) and south of France have arrived by Henri Lepetit. His paintings are gutsy, bold, and positive. He paints with flair and without hesitation. He knows exactly where he is going and exactly how he is going to achieve the end result. Sizes range from 9×11 to 20×40. For more images click here.

NEW GLASS SCULPTURES
A new arrival is unique glass sculpture by Fusani, 50, of Argentina. In 1991, he traveled around Japan and Europe where he visited principal centers of ceramics and glass. He began combining two techniques: lost wax (Pate du Verre) and fusing glass. Two or more layers of glass create forms that trigger the imagination of the observer. Fusani enjoys discovering the different characteristics and potential of glass: transparencies, textures, stretching, elements which compliment his initial concept. Prices range from $75 to $150. Size is from 2” squared to about 7” wide. The glass looks like its sea washed, and about a half inch thick. Unique gifts for favors, birthday, anniversary, Valentine’s Day, or “just because.” Each has two or three figures.

Painting by French Artist Eitel

ON CONSIGNMENT
Four classic works by known French artists are being offered at below market prices, since they are on consignment. This includes Poumelin, Eitel (right) and Mogart.

CLEARANCE
Making way for new paintings, about 8 older paintings by award winning artist Barbara Krupp are now on “severe clearance.” Originally priced about $2400 to $6000, they are now reduced 75%. So, for example a 24×48 is now only $600. See the works here.

TALK ON IMPRESSIONISM AUGUST 11 IN ORANGE
Gallery co-owner Pat Warren and Impressionist Brian Sage will offer a discussion on Impressionism at the Angel Hair Salon in Orange 6-8 pm Aug 11. Works will also be for sale and will benefit non-profit homeless advocate Columbus House, based in southern Connecticut. Space is limited so let Pat know if you wish to come. 203-226-6934.

Westport River Gallery is open Wednesday-Sunday or by special appointment. The gallery specializes in original fine international works of art from Europe, the Americas and Asia, and also offer framing services, and gallery rental for special events. Call 203-226-6934 or visit www.westportrivergallery.com for more information.

Derby / Shelton Fireworks

Here’s an extensive list of fireworks and festivities taking place across the state of Connecticut this year in celebration of Independence Day, 2010. We’ll add to and revise this list as we find out more.

If you have a tip, please email us at info@ctweekender.com or send us a message on twitter @CTWeekender. Know of a great place to watch the fireworks from? Leave a comment below and share it with others!

July 3rd

• Greenwich - Brinney Park 9:10 p.m. Greenwich Point 9:30 p.m.
• Manchester - Manchester Community College, 9:30pm
• Norwalk - Calf Pasture Beach In East Norwalk. Festivities start @ 5:30 p.m. (Rain Date July 5)
• Norwich - Dodd Stadium, 9:15pm, tickets required
• Stratford - 9:30 p.m. Short Beach Park (Rain Date July 5) http:
• West Haven – Bradley Point 9:15 p.m. (rain date July 5th)
• Milford - Westfield Connecticut Post Mall 9:30 p.m.
• Wallingford - Sheehan High School, 9pm

July 4th

• Fairfield - Jennings Beach (Rain Date July 5)
• Middlebury - Dark, at Quassy Amusement Park
• New Britain – 9:15 p.m. Stanley Quarter Park (Rain Date July 5)
• New Canaan – 9:15 p.m. Waveny Park (Rain Date July 5)
• New Haven – 9:15 p.m. East Rock Park (Rain Date July 5)
• Ridgefield - Dusk, at Ridgefield High School
• Weston - 9:20 p.m. Weston Middle School Field (Rain Date July 5)
• Wilton - Wilton High School Athletic Complex
• Waterbury - Municpal Stadium, dusk

July 10

• Coventry - 9:00 p.m. Patriots Park, Lake St. (CoventryFest events start at 3:00 p.m.)
• Groton/New London – 9:20 p.m. Thames River Waterfront
• Guilford - 9:30 p.m. Guilford Fairgrounds (Rain Date July 11)
• Hartford - Riverfest On Connecticut River. Entertainment begins at 4:00 p.m., Fireworks at 9:00 p.m.

New ‘Free Fall ‘N” Tower Ride Dropping In On Landmark Park

Middlebury, CT – Drop everything! There’s 35 feet of soaring, swooping, sheer family fun coming to Quassy Amusement Park for the 2010 season.

“Free Fall ‘N,’” a new ride built in Europe for the lakeside facility, will make its debut when Quassy opens for the 102nd season of operation on Saturday, April 24.

“This family drop tower is the first phase of our multi-year plan to update equipment and infrastructure at the park,” noted Eric Anderson, a Quassy co-owner.

Custom built for the park by SBF Visa Group of Montagnana, Italy, “Free Fall ‘N’” will gently lift up to 12 riders – adults or children – to the top of the tower before making a series abrupt drops.

“We’ve ridden these drop towers, and they are extremely exciting – an ideal fit for our demographic,” Anderson added.

Final details of the unit being constructed for Quassy were ironed out during the recent International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) annual Expo in Las Vegas, Nev.

“We really took a production unit and customized it to the height and color schemes we wanted,” the park owner asserted.

The tower ride will also be the first unit produced by SBF Visa Group incorporating a state-of-the-art light emitting diode (LED), computerized lighting system.

“These lights are incredible,” said Quassy owner George Frantzis II. “They’re a show in themselves and lend to our continued efforts in going ‘green’ – using less energy in park operations.”

Facelift For Catered Area

The Fieldside Pavilion, Quassy’s largest area for catered group outings, has received an extensive facelift for 2010. An all-new stainless steel food preparation and service area has been built in the pavilion during the off-season as well as other improvements made.

“Basically, the entire inside of the structure will have a brighter, more modern atmosphere,” Frantzis said of the project. The huge structure was built in 1952 and can host groups of 500 to 3,000 persons. Its adjacent great lawn area has volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, bocce and baseball

Numerous other infrastructure projects have been completed during the fall and winter. Quassy’s popular “Trabant” ride, a park staple since 1965, was totally refurbished by the facility’s safety and maintenance department.

Economic Impact

Quassy’s renovations are expected to have positive economic impact throughout the area as well.

“Regional accommodations that package vacation stays with us realize the value of having modern attractions nearby,” Frantzis explained. “These partnerships have grown extensively over the past couple of years, and much of that can be attributed to the park’s progressive nature in updating, yet preserving a family atmosphere.”

“The impact tourist attractions have on the business climate locally is very substantial,” the park owner added.

“Visitors not only pay for accommodations, but also meals at restaurants, gasoline and a variety of other goods and services. We’re happy to recommend to our guests local places to go out to dinner and other places of interest – we do that on virtually a daily basis when we’re open.”

“The unique thing here is that we have been careful to preserve the nostalgia of Quassy while making essential updates,” Anderson interjected. “Change has been necessary – especially over the past few years – to remain competitive. At the same time, we’ve continued with a good balance of the old and the new. Everyday we hear guests comment about the classic rides like the ‘Tilt-A-Whirl’ and ‘Little Dipper’ coaster, and at the same time compliment us for having the initiative to build ‘Saturation Station.’”

The state-of-the-art interactive water play area was the first installation of its type – an SCS “WaterColors” modular system – in the world when it opened in June of 2003.

The park added two gigantic “Tunnel Twister” waterslides to complement the attraction in 2006. Quassy plans to add other attractions to the waterpark in coming years.

Quassy Amusement Park features more than two-dozen rides and attractions, live entertainment, a redemption arcade, games, restaurant and special events.

The park is also home to Lakeside Caterers, which prepares food for group outings staged at the property. Quassy hosts company picnics, school fieldtrips, family reunions, church picnics, team building events, stags, sports team and league banquets and weddings.

Families also find the park a great place to hold birthday parties, with special packages available.

Schools take advantage of Quassy’s diverse educational programs as well as a variety of competitions. The park offers a new physics booklet with pages of projects for students complete while at the property. In addition the park sponsors two educational tours, a “Wacky Science” presentation and other workshops. The annual school music festival returns to Quassy in June.

Sticking to its theme of providing “affordable family fun,” Quassy is currently offering season passes. The park will continue to present its popular “50-Cent Fabulous Friday Nights” and Saturday evening carload specials this season.

For more information visit www.quassy.com or call the park office at 203-758-2913.

Connecticut has over 800 miles of Blue-Blazed Hiking Trails

The Blue-Blazed Hiking Trail System currently totals over 800 miles of hiking trails in 88 Connecticut towns. The trails are maintained by dedicated volunteers who contribute approximately 7,500 hours to trail work every year.

The trails live only because Connecticut Forest and Park Association (CFPA) members and friends give their financial support as well as their time and talent. The Blue-Blazed Hiking Trails are the best maintained, largest trail network in Connecticut. They are a treasure given to us and future generations by CFPA, civic-minded landowners and hundreds of caring trail volunteers.

The CFPA is currently seeking donations for their Annual Fund, which helps to keep these trails alive.  Donations can be made by by visiting cfpa.org or by calling (860) 346-2372.

Bulls Bridge in Kent

Bulls Bridge is one of the few functional covered bridges remaining in Connecticut. Built in 1842, the bridge was one of the few ways to cross the Housatonic River from New York state, and was intended to bring more traffic into the area.

In addition to the scenic wooden bridge, the area features waterfalls, rapids, overviews, a small gorge, and hiking trails.

The bridge and falls are only a short walk from the parking area, which is free. The trail is generally easy to walk, but is narrow in spots and can get slippery after rain.

Most people walk straight towards the bridge and down towards the rapids, where you can view a powerful waterfall coming from an old power station. Slightly out of view is another short walking path located directly across the street from the parking lot which will bring you to a scenic overlook of the river down below.

If you look closely at the rocks near the river you may spot some very large spiders (almost fist-size) living in the cracks. Be careful though as it is very dangerous to get close to the water. The rocks are unstable and slick and you may fall in.

Signage will direct you to the areas hiking trails, which link up with the nearby Appalachian Trail.

1.) It’s Sunday–and do you really want to be mowing the lawn?

2.) The fair was rained out on Friday, and well, it’s not raining today.

3.) There is plenty of free parking on the fair grounds.

4.) There is a special senior citizen reduced admission today, and only today.

5.) At 5:30 today, Big Shot, the Billy Joel cover band, will be taking the stage.

6.) And before that, Amazing Andy will show us Magic & Balancing.

7.) Rosie’s Racing Pigs will race multiple times throughout the day (I’ve heard about pigs going to the market, but really, I’d be more impressed if I saw them run).

8.) The doughnuts.

9.) The fair food in general.

10.) The Agriculture and the Home Arts buildings, which showcase local Connecticut artists and animals.

11.) The cocktail of anxiety and adrenaline the fills your stomach on the Pharaoh ride.

12.) Believe it or not, it’s still summer, and this may be one of the last days when it actually feels that way.

The North Haven Fair is located on Route 5 in, yes, North Haven.  Directions are provided in detail on its website.  General Admission is $9, and the fair grounds stay open until 8pm.  Hope to see you there!

Hebron Harvest Fair

Autumn means it’s fair season in Connecticut, and nearly every weekend in every corner of the state you’ll find fairs and festivals serving fall treats like cauldron-cooked corn on the cob, cotton candy, cider doughnuts, and pies.  There’s also plenty of internationally inspired festivals happening, such as Oktoberfest and the three different Irish Festivals.  Here’s a guide to make sure you get the most out of fair season in Connecticut:

Hebron Harvest Fair
Hebron Lion’s Fairgrounds, 347 Gilead Street
Hebron, CT
Phone: 860-228-0892
September 9-13, 2009
Major agricultural fair with livestock shows, midway, exhibits, continuous stage entertainment, magic show, small animal barns, arts and crafts, food and product booths. Midway, carnival, demolition derby. Entertainment by Dock Dogs, Guitar Hero Contest. Music by Ricohet and country music star Chuck Wicks. Hours: Thursday, 4-10 p.m.; Friday, noon-11 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. For more information, visit: www.hebronharvestfair.org.

North Haven Fair
North Haven Fairground, 300 Washington Avenue (Route 5)
North Haven, CT
Phone: 203-239-3700
September 10-13, 2009
Large agricultural fair featuring animal and agricultural exhibits, entertainment, vendors, rides and food. Arts and crafts, petting zoo, pony rides. Enjoy live music and special attractions. Featured performers are The Spectacles, Chris Cagle, Evolution, and Big Shot. Admission fee. For more information, visit: www.northhaven-fair.com.

Norwalk Oyster Festival
Veterans Memorial Park, 42 Seaview Avenue
East Norwalk, CT
Phone: 203-838-9444
September 11 – 13, 2009
This fantastic end-of-summer festival features food booths, barbeque vendors, demonstrations and competitions with more than $20,000 in prizes. Other attractions include more than 100 arts and crafts vendors, vintage boat tours, children activities, and of course, some of the freshest, most delicious oysters in the world. For more information, visit: www.seaport.org/OysterFest.html.

Greater Danbury Irish Festival
Charles Ives Convert Park
Western Connecticut State University
Danbury, CT
September 11-13, 2009
Live music, Irish food, arts & crafts, & dancing. Three day passes available for $20. Adult admission is $5 on Friday, $12 on Saturday and Sunday. Children under 12 years of age are free. For more information, visit: www.danburyirishfestival.com.

Bethlehem Fair
Route 61
Bethlehem, CT
Phone: 203-266-5350
September 11, 12, 13, 2009
Animal exhibits and demonstrations; martial arts demonstration, parade of antique tractors, Bristol Old Tyme Fiddlers, lumberjack competition, exotic bird show, farmers night out, open western horse show and gymkhana hollerin’ contest, agri-Olympics, live music by Eran Troy Danner. Cost: General admission, $7; seniors, $5 Saturday and Sunday; children under age 12, free with adult. Hours: Friday, 5-11 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, visit: www.bethlehemfair.com.

Four Town Fair
Egypt Road
Somers, CT
Phone: 860-749-6527
September 17, 18, 19, 20, 2009
Midway, Antique & Farm Machinery, Livestock, Agricultural Exhibits, Demonstrations and Stage Entertainment, Children’s Contests, Bingo. Appearances by Ronald McDonald and Riverside Reptiles. Live music by Aces & Eights, Changes in Latitudes, Aquanett, and MacTalla Mor. Animal exhibits and competitions, demonstrations, skillet throwing. Admission: Friday, Saturday, Sunday $7; Thursday, $5; children age 12 and younger, free; Thursday and Friday, Senior Citizens, $4; Weekend Pass, $20. For more information, visit: www.fourtownfair.com.

Guilford Agricultural Fair
Off I-95 at Exit 57 and follow signs to fair
Guilford, CT
September 18-20, 2009
Country fair with animal exhibits and displays, crafts and handiwork, live music. Hours: Friday, 1-11 p.m.; Saturday, 9a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission: Adults, $10; seniors, $8; children age 6-11, $2; children age 5 and younger, free; 2-day pass, $16. Entertainment included with admission. For more information, visit: www.guilfordfair.org.

Harvest Festival
Haight-Brown Vineyard, 29 Chestnut Hill Road
Litchfield, CT
September 19-20, 2009
There will be crafters, vendors, restaurants, local beer, vineyard and cellar tours, food and wine pairing classes, hay rides, grape stomping, face painting, pony rides. Time: Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: General admission, $8; elite admission, $15 (includes wine glass and walk around wine tasting).

Milford Irish Festival
Fowler Field Rotary Pavilion behind the Milford Public Library, 57 New Haven Avenue
Milford, CT
September 19, 2009
There will be Irish music, dancing, youth activities, food and drink and Irish ware for sale. Music by Irish Heritage Society of Milford Pipe Band and the Trinity Girls Choir; County Cavan; Donal O’Shaughnessy; N.Y. Brogue; The Kathleen Mulkerin’s School of Irish Dancing; Calley McGrane & the Exiles; Jamison Revenge; & Keltic Kick. Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Cost: Admission is $8 per person age 13 and older. For more information, visit: www.milfordirish.org.

Orange Country Fair
525 Orange Center Road
Orange, CT
September 19-20, 2009
Animal exhibits and competitions; crafts; entertainment by Man In Black (classic country), Amazing Andy (children’s magic show), the Navels (American rock and roll), The Stupendous Mr. Magichead (children’s comedy magic show), Nicole Frechette Band (country music, classic to modern), Pickles Da Clown, pig races.Hours: Saturday,8 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Adults, $7; seniors, $5; free parking and shuttle. For more information, visit: www.orangectfair.com.

Hope Out Loud 8 Peace & Arts Festival
Bushnell Park. Elm Street
Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-523-4823
September 20, 2009
Hope Out Loud 8 combines music, poetry, dance, family activities, speakers with fun for everyone. Spend the afternoon. Bring a picnic. It’s a concert, a day of remembrance, a day of inspiration, a day for renewal with many organizations dedicated to peace and the arts. Hope Out Loud is a family friendly event. Time: Noon-5 p.m. Cost: Free. For more information, visit: www.hopeoutloud.org.

Native American Arts Festival
Stamford Museum & Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Road
Stamford, CT
Phone: 203-322-1646
September 26, 2009
The festival will feature performances from The Allegany River Dancers and a variety of Native American artists. Visitors will have the opportunity to admire and purchase Museum-quality Native American artworks, as several prominent Native American artists will display their work on the Museum’s meadow. Young visitors will be able to take part in traditional Native American games and craft activities. Refreshments inspired in Native American traditions will be available for purchase. Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: Adults, $10; children age 3 and older, $5. For more information, visit: www.stamfordmuseum.org.

Connecticut Renaissance Faire
347 Gilead Street
Hebron, CT
Phone: 860-478-5954
September 26-October 18, 2009
Experience an enchanted recreation of a 16th century harvest festival as one might have been in the Renaissance. Here you can explore New England’s largest Medieval Marketplace with more than 100 artisans and crafters; watch hours of themed entertainment daily, including jousting, armored combat, period music, and more; or sample an assortment of Renaissance food and desserts. Costumes not required. Dates: Weekends and Columbus Day only. Location: The Lions Fairgrounds, 347 Gilead Street. Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: Adults age 13 and older, $16; youth aged five to 12, $8. For more information, visit: www.ctfaire.com.

Pipes In The Valley Celtic Festival
Mortensen Riverfront Plaza, 300 Columbus Blvd.
Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-306-2653
September 26, 2009
This Celtic Music Festival celebrates eight years at the Riverfront with bagpipes, Celtic diddling, Scottish drumming, step dancing, kids activities, highland games, and plenty of beer. This year’s event promises a day filled with fun, flavor and world-class entertainment. Time: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. For more information, visit: www. pipesinthevalley.com.

Oktoberfest
Quassy Amusement Park, Lake Quassapaug, 2132 Middlebury Road / Route 64
Middlebury, CT
Phone: 800-FOR-PARK
September 26-27, 2009
German music, food, dancing in the Oktoberfest pavilion. Parking $5 with free admission to the pavilion. Fee for food and beverages. For more information, visit: www.quassy.com or call 203-758-2913.

Tibetfest
Goshen Fairgrounds, 116 Old Middle Street (Route 63)
Goshen, CT
Phone: 860-567-0086
September 25-26, 2009
Celebration of Tibetan culture with sand mandala, music, dance, guest speakers, handicraft & food vendors, art and photography exhibits, artisans and outreach organization booths and much more. Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: Adults, $10; students, $5; children under age 5, free. For more information, visit: www.TibetFest.com.

Durham Agricultural Fair
Durham Fairgrounds, Routes 17 and 68
Durham, CT
Phone: 860-349-9495
September 25 – 27, 2009
Connecticut’s largest agricultural fair is a weekend of fun. See top entertainment, crafts on the green, carnival rides and games and plenty more. There’s lots to eat, exhibits showcasing livestock, fruits, vegetables, art, baking, needlework, photography, and more. Admission. For more information, visit: www.durhamfair.com.

Milford Green Art Show
Milford, CT
Phone: 203-874-5672
September 26-27, 2009
180 juried fine artists and handcrafters from coast to coast. Great variety of demonstrating artists, soothing classical music, and ethnic foods. Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Apple Harvest Festival
Town Green
Southington, CT
Phone: (860) 276-8461
October 2-4 & 9-11, 2009
Family oriented community event spanning the first two weekends in October. The festival offers six days of spectacular fun, delicious food, crafts and live entertainment which showcases the organizations, groups and volunteers that make Southington a wonderful community to live in and visit. Admission is free. Parade on Sunday the 4th. Arts & Crafts is the highlight the second weekend. Children’s carnival and play area. Also featuring the “Southington Idol” singing competition both weekends. Pre-registration is required to compete. For more information, visit www.southington.org.

Irish Festival
Quassy Amusement Park, Lake Quassapaug, 2132 Middlebury Road / Route 64
Middlebury, CT
Phone: 800-FOR-PARK
October 10, 2009
Your ticket includes an all-you-can-eat menu 1 to 6 p.m. featuring Corned Beef On Rye Sandwiches, Shepherds Pie, Hot Dogs, Hamburgers, Cheeseburgers and more. Cash bar will be serving Smithwicks, McSorley’s, Guinness, & Miller Lite. Rides operate noon to 6 p.m. with additional ride passes $5 for any age! Pre-sale tickets include parking and food, served 1 to 6 p.m. in the Fieldside Pavilion. Adults: $27, Kids (12 and under): $22. Rides for Kids: Free all-day ride pass for children 3-12 attending the festival with pre-sale ticket! For more information, visit: www.quassy.com or call 203-758-2913.

Garlic & Harvest Festival
Bethlehem Fairgrounds, 384 Main Street North (Route 61)
Bethlehem, CT
Phone: 203-266-7350
October 10, 2009
Fresh garlic and farm produce, garlic specialty food vendors, garlic food court, garlic growing lectures, garlic cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, amusements, and plenty of samples make this a must for the garlic lover. Bring the kids and your appetite. Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: Adults, $6; seniors, $5; children under age 12. $1. For more information, visit: www.garlicfestct.com.

Harvest Festival
Stamford Museum & Nature Center, 39 Scofieldtown Road
Stamford, CT
Phone: 203-322-1646
October 18, 2009
The event will feature a variety of activities for the whole family. Learn about the harvest, techniques used to turn apples into cider, where linen comes from, how to dye wool. Watch antique tool demonstrations or try your luck in the hay bale maze. There will be face painting, children’s crafts, story telling, live music and other demonstrations. For an additional fee, pick a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch or take a hay wagon ride. Fall treats like cauldron-cooked corn on the cob, cotton candy, cider doughnuts, and pies will be for sale. Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine. Admission: $10. Information: www.stamfordmuseum.org.