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A Weekend Full of Activities

A Weekend Full of Activities

Local Passport Stamping, Caroling For Charity, Holiday Markets

Tyler DiGiovanni
December 12, 2024

Good morning, Quiet Corner! Today is Thursday 12/12, and that means it’s National Gingerbread House Day! Who doesn’t love putting one of these together? Once you get the walls up and roof on (melted gummy bears make an excellent glue, thanks mom for that trick!), I find the most enjoyable way to decorate, is one piece of candy for the house, two for myself, and repeat. Usually only half the house gets finished, but who looks at the back of it anyway?

Fun Fact: The Brothers Grimm are thought to have popularized the gingerbread house with their German fairytale Hansel and Gretel. Since then they’ve become a staple in many holiday traditions. The largest gingerbread house ever made was made in Bryan, TX and measured at 60ft long, 42 ft wide and 10 ft tall!

There’s a lot going on this weekend, so without further ado…

In Today’s Quiet Corner Buzz:

Woodstock Winterfest ❄️
Putnam Pursuits 🛍️🏊
Chords For A Cause 🎵

Let’s dive in!

-Tyler DiGiovanni

BRIEF BITES

CT Rankings - The picturesque town of Pomfret was ranked as one of the 10 most scenic towns in CT. You can check out the full list on WorldAtlas here. Nice to see the quiet corner getting some recognition for it’s natural beauty!
Top Award - The CT Restaurant Association held its annual CRAZIES award that honors the top chefs, restaurants and caterers. Congrats to winner for Windham County, Trigo Wood Fired Pizza!
Canterbury Walgreens - Notice has gone out that the Canterbury Walgreens will be Wal-gone as of 1/29/25. As of now there is limited information, but prescriptions are expected to be filled as normal in the Moosup location.
Scotland Zip Code Update - Scotland could soon get a single zip code, thanks to a provision from Rep. Joe Courtney. The bill, set for a vote this week, aims to fix the town’s current issue of six zip codes, which has caused misplaced packages and confusion with mail-in ballots.
Community Sing-a-Long - In the mood to sing some holiday classics with a bunch of other people? Head to Shafer Hall Auditorium (Valley St, Willimantic) from 2-3:30pm on Saturday 12/14. It’s free (parking too), refreshments, bi-lingual friendly, and accessible. Snow date is Sunday 12/15 2-3:30pm.
Shutting Doors - After nearly four decades, Pleasant Pizza in Willimantic closed its doors on Dec 10th, leaving a big gap in the hearts of locals. Known for its welcoming vibe and delicious pies, this family-run gem has been a community favorite since 1985.

Woodstock Winterfest ❄️

If you live near Woodstock, I hope you’ve been mapping out your route for getting your Winterfest Passport stamped around town. No clue what I’m talking about? Well, on Saturday 12/14, the annual Roseland Park Christmas Run (we’ll talk about that a little later on in the newsletter) kicks off a marathon of fun in town.

From 1-5pm, stop by 23 (yes, you read that right, 23!) local spots to get your passport stamped (don’t worry, I’ll give you a link so you can print everything out). But, it’s much more than just walking in, getting your card marked and leaving. Each spot has something fun to offer. From a nativity petting zoo (watch your step), guessing games, cookies (so, so many cookies), ornament decoration, and so much more (seriously, it’s impressive).

After you bounce around like a pinball, you need to be at the Roseland Park Barn (205 Roseland Park Rd) before 4:50pm to trade your stamps for raffle tickets (oh yes, there’s more). For each stamp, you’ll get a raffle ticket that can be entered to win an overnight stay at the Mansion at Bald Hill (breakfast is included, so just let me know what time to be there), riding lessons, gift cards, and more. The drawing will take place at 5pm. There’s also a separate wreath raffle you can buy tickets for, winners will be drawn at 5:15pm.

And the cherry on top? Tree lighting at 5:30pm. I promised you a link for the passport, so click on that to print out your copy, and get even more detail on what’s going on at each stop.

Putnam Pursuits 🛍️🏊

There’s a Hale of a lot going on at the Hale YMCA (9 Technology Park Dr) in Putnam on Saturday 12/14. From 10am-2pm, check out the holiday bazaar, featuring over 40 local artists, entrepreneurs, and crafters. Handmade soaps? Yep. Pottery? Uh…yeah, they have that. Candles? I’ll give you a hint, yes. I mean, if you like things that smell nice, and places to put other things, that’s reason enough to come down.

But, if you’re still on the fence, how about the fact that there is going to be a splash party at the same YMCA. What are the odds of that? It’s almost if they planned it or something…

With the colder weather looking like it’s here to stay for a while, why not bring back a slice of summer and take a dip in the pool? It’s a great way to bribe the kids into letting you shop for a little bit. Registration is required to get aquatic, so stop into the front desk or give them a call (860) 315-9622 to book your spot.

Chords For A Cause 🎵

If there is one thing everyone in this county has in common, it’s a love of seeing a community come together for a great cause. As many of you might know, the Covenant Soup Kitchen in Willimantic suffered a huge loss when their walk-in cooler broke down, spoiling hundreds of pounds of food.

The community has responded in force, gathering donations and showing the true meaning of the holiday season. This weekend there are going to be a couple more events that any music lover will love, while helping out those in need.

This Sunday 12/15, Waldron’s Studio 88 (recording studio, the owner Derek knows his stuff, if you know anyone in the area looking to lay down some tracks) and Klaus Larsen LLC are holding a Caroling For A Cause Holiday Sing-a-Long. It’s free, but any and all donations are appreciated, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to the soup kitchen.

So, head to the Klaus Larsen Auditorium (29 Northridge Dr, Windham) at 6pm, and get ready to belt out Christmas songs. The big man in the red suit will be there too, so bring your kids to snag some pictures and show them what Christmas spirit really looks like.

If you’d rather watch a show than be a part of it, David Foster and the Shaboo All-Stars are also holding a benefit concert on 12/15 from 4-7pm. David Foster will be joined by James Montgomery, John Cafferty, Steve Gaspar. Jeff Pitchell, Al Copely, Leon Pendarvis, Mitch Chakour, Cliff Goodwin, Bill Holoman, Baron Raymonde, Marty Richards, Wilf Ginandes, and The Uptown Horns (it remains to be seen if all of them will be able to fit on one stage with that many people). The concert will be taking place at the Fine Arts Instructional Center (306 High St, #28) at ECSU. Tickets can be purchased here.

BEE LINE EVENTS

$ - Indicates a cost to participate

Holiday Markets - Saturday 12/14

Moosup | Christmas Wishes Holiday Market | 10am-4pm - Shop with local crafters and vendors at the Hope Lodge Venue (345 N Main St) for all of your holiday needs. Santa, Mrs. Clause, and the Grinch will also be there for photos. Kids can decorate a cookie and participate in the free crafts.

Windham | Bizarre Bazaar | Multiple Days $ - Want something extra special to do this Friday 12/13 (6-9pm) and Saturday 12/14 (12-4pm)? Head to the Moulton Lava Gallery (31 Moulton Court, also awesome name) for a truly different shopping experience. There will be vendors, art for sale, live music, and victuals and libations. Guests are encouraged to dress in Edwardian/Steampunk style garb. There’s a $5 minimum donation, and proceeds will go to the non-profit CLICK.

Windham | Downtown Shop and Stroll | 10am-5pm - Willimantic really has a lot going on this Saturday. There are 5 holiday markets, deals galore at local restaurants, and a Santa photoshoot opportunity. Too much to list here, but you can check out the details here.

Windham | Ukrainian Bazaar | 10am-2pm - Stop by St. Mary’s Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (70 Oak St) on Saturday to browse through delicious baked goods and check out the wares of a Ukrainian artisan. If you want the really good stuff (pierogis and stuffed cabbage), you’ll have to call ahead to pre-order (860) 456-1109.

Misc.

12/13

Putnam | Miracle on 34th Street | 7:30pm $ - The Bradley Playhouse (30 Front St) is thrilled to bring a production of Miracle on 34th Street to the stage. Experience this holiday classic in person on the 13th, with more performances through the weekend as well as next weekend. You can purchase tickets here.

12/14

Brooklyn | Wreaths Across America | 12pm - Meet across the street from the Mortlake Fire Company (12 Canterbury Rd) to help honor our fallen heroes this holiday season.

Windham | Toy Drive & Karaoke | 7pm - Swing by the Franco-American Club (116 Club Rd) to donate a toy for a child in need and belt out your famous rendition of Dancing Queen. There is a bar if you need a little liquid courage first (always have a DD), and it’s a cash-only facility (ATM on-site).

12/15

Putnam | Yin Yoga + Gong Bath | 5-6:30pm $ - BLOCK 134 is hosting a relaxing evening of Yin yoga (gentle, long held poses), capped off with a shower of sound from a gong (a drawn out sound, not the big BANG you’re probably thinking of when you hear “gong”). Tickets

Scotland | Hillyland End Of Season Party | 2-5pm - Join this beloved local winery (75 Murphy Rd) to celebrate the end of their season. There will be light refreshments, live music, and their wines (naturally) available for purchase. And in keeping with the seasonal theme, mulled wine will also be available (yum).

Woodstock | Frosty: A Musical Adventure | 2pm - Looking for something fun and whimsical to do with your kids between the ages of 4-12? The Loos Center For The Arts (150 Route 169) is holding a 50 minute performance of the story of a very special snowman. Tickets and more information can be found here.

Outdoor Activities

12/14

Woodstock | 4th Annual Roseland Run | 9:30am $ - Running fun for all ages and skill levels. There’s the 5 Miler, the 5K (about 3 miles for those unfamiliar, but if you’re going to be participating, you probably know that, and now I’m just rambling), and a Kid’s Fun Run (1/2 mile). Wear holiday themed costumes, and have some fun. You can buy your tickets and find more details here.

12/15

Canterbury | Gingerbread Dash | 12pm $ - Help support the Canterbury PTO, and get a little exercise in while doing so. This 5K run has a new location at 45 Westminster Rd. Make sure to register by the 14th to save a little money off the entry fee.

Pomfret | Last QC NEMBA Ride | 9:30am-2pm - This will be the year’s last ride for the Quiet Corner New England Mountain Bike Association. Starting at 9:30am, riders will be split up by skill level and take somewhat leisurely (as leisurely as mountain biking can be) ride (118 Wolf Den Rd). Afterwards they’ll head to Black Pond Brews for free food (cash bar for beer, wine, or non-alcoholic drinks) around 12pm. Whether you’re already a part of this group, or are interested in joining, you can register here.

Santa Sightings

12/14

Eastford | Breakfast with Santa | 9-11am - Santa will be making an appearance for breakfast with the children of Eastford at the Eastford Independent Fire Co #1 (6 Westford Rd) on 12/14. Parents are asked to message the Fire Department to let them know how many people are coming.

12/15

Dayville | Santa Run | 9am - No, it’s not that type of run. Santa will be chauffeured around town by the Dayville Fire Company on Sunday 12/15. If you want him to swing by your house for a wave, make sure to fill out this form.

East Killingly | Santa Meeting | 1-3pm - Help the members of the East Killingly Fire Department (1395 Hartford Pike) welcome Santa on Sunday 12/15.

Live Music

12/12

12/13

12/14

12/15

*The Hungry Lion Food Truck will also be there
**Cousins Maine Lobster will be there from 12-7pm

THE HIVE’S PICKS

While the Woodstock Passport is packed into one fun-filled day, Windham is spacing theirs out a bit. It’s already underway (don’t yell at me, I just found out about it too!), and runs until Friday 12/20 (so, really, we’re giving you plenty of time). As many of you know, we try to promote buying locally and supporting our surrounding communities. This is the perfect opportunity to do just that.

There are 20 (there were 21, but one store closed for the season, don’t worry they’ll be back) participating businesses in the Windham area. Stop into each business to get a stamp on your passport, and some places are even running promotions along with the passport program (The Bench Shop has several going, including 50% off some items, you can never have enough tie-dye in my opinion!). For every ten businesses you stop into, you’ll get a raffle ticket to win some prizes that will be announced on 12/20 at noon.

So if you’re following the logic, that means your passport needs to be submitted before 12pm on the 20th in order to be entered for the raffles. You can either drop it off at the Windham Chamber of Commerce (47 Crescent St, Willimantic), taking a picture of it and texting it to (860) 423-6389, or you can always email it to [email protected]

You can grab your copy of the passport here.

ECSU SPORTS

12/13 - Men’s and Women’s Track & Field @ Southern CT* | 3pm

12/14 - Men’s and Women’s Track & Field @ Southern CT* | 10am

*Art Kadish Elm City Challenge

Thanks for reading today’s Quiet Corner Buzz! If you got something out of it, please share it with someone who is already planning their garden for next year. See you next week!

Tyler

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A Weekend Full of Activities

Local Passport Stamping, Caroling For Charity, Holiday Markets

BRIEF BITES

Woodstock Winterfest ❄️

Putnam Pursuits 🛍️🏊

Chords For A Cause 🎵

BEE LINE EVENTS

Holiday Markets - Saturday 12/14

Misc.

Outdoor Activities

Santa Sightings

Live Music

THE HIVE’S PICKS

ECSU SPORTS

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