Greater New Haven Regional Arts Calendar

Award-winning Pantochino Productions presents a new, warm and wonderful musical about a small town with a holiday namesake. Here in Santa Claus, Ohio, everything is all about Christmas—every shop, every restaurant, every day, all year long. But when a hot shot lawyer threatens to ‘cease and desist,’ the jolly old elf himself comes to the rescue! Described as a ‘greeting card channel’ holiday movie live on stage, it’s 100% merry, cheerful, feel good fun!

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‘Welcome to Santa Claus’ features book and lyrics by Bert Bernardi and music by Justin Rugg. Performed at the MAC, Milford Arts Council on Railroad Avenue in downtown Milford, seating for the show is cabaret-style at tables and chairs. Audiences are invited to bring their own food and drink to enjoy during the show. Free parking in all train depot lots at showtime. Sponsored by Berchem Moses PC. Fridays at 7:30pm, Saturdays at 2 and 5:30pm, Sundays at 2pm.

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Join NHM for a one-man performance of Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol” as performed by Michael Rose. In his 90-minute cut of the perennial holiday favorite, Rose embodies over a dozen characters, from Ebeneezer Scrooge to Tiny Tim to the three ghosts of Christmas. The performance will be on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 2 pm., with a reception at 1:30 p.m. 

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Rose is an actor and theatre educator based in New Haven. He studied theatre at Yale University and the London Academy of Musical and Dramatic Arts. He directs and performs in plays at the Whitney Center senior living facility and teaches theatre to youth through his own extracurricular programs. 

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“A Christmas Carol” is one of the most adapted of Dickens’s works, with versions ranging from the Muppets to David Sedaris. Rose notes that the show arose out of a tradition of him reading the novella out loud to his family at Christmas time—he enjoyed it so much that he wanted to share it with the public. Having seen a number of adaptations of “A Christmas Carol,” he wanted to create one that was very true to the original text.

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“‘A Christmas Carol’ will always be relevant to people of any faith or background because it is about opening our heart to connection with others.” Rose says. “The tale’s spirit of open-heartedness and generosity is what I hope the public will take from the presentation.”

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While you’re there you can enjoy a special “What’s in the Whitney Library?” program, “New Haven Holidays” from 12 to 4 p.m., where librarian Emma Norden will offer a glimpse of Christmas past from the Whitney Library collection. View a charming collection of holiday treasures—from handmade Christmas cards from the early 1900s to greetings from overseas soldiers during WW1. It will also include an astonishing article from the December 24, 1950, New Haven Register recounting Dickens’s 1868 Elm City reading of the “Christmas Carol,” replete with rioting crowds and a ticketing scandal so colossal that the entire appearance was rescheduled and re-ticketed.

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 World Premiere of A Good Run: Finding Peace with Parkinson’s

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You are invited to the premiere of the mini documentary A Good Run: Finding Peace with Parkinson’s followed by a conversation with Hollywood Author and Producer Cole Brown.

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Admission is free- RSVP required.

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RSVP Online Here

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Saturday, December 13, 2025

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2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

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Hopkins School

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Academic and Performing Arts Center

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986 Forest Road

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New Haven, CT 06515

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Event schedule:

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Opening Reception                              2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

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Film Screening                                      2:30 PM - 3:00 PM

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Conversation with Cole Brown         3:00 PM - 3:30 PM

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Closing Reception                                 3:30 PM - 4:00 PM

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About the film: Over the past decade, Etana has witnessed her mother’s battle with Parkinson’s Disease (PD), a chronic and progressive neurological disorder that affects the body’s ability to move and function. Diagnosed at the age of 58, Kathleen’s diagnosis reversed the roles between mother and daughter much earlier than expected. The cinematic piece focuses on the subtleties that make a relationship between mother and daughter soft, yet impenetrable. The film shares their journey through heartfelt interviews, childhood moments and reflection. By capturing the realities of love and loss, the piece provides viewers with the opportunity to see how even the deepest pain can be turned into something positive.

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View the preview trailer here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DAR74HsP_JS/?hl=en

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This is a fantastic introduction to pottery and a great way to get to know CAW’s studio. Spend your Saturday afternoon in the Creative Arts Workshop pottery studio. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn hand building techniques and be guided through throwing clay on the wheel. You’ll also discover how to embellish your pieces with surface textures and glaze finishes. Come join us and get creative!

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No experience necessary, all levels welcome.

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We are so happy to welcome back our friend and fabulous local author Debbi Michiko Florence , who will be visiting for a reading and signing of her new book, Monster Maker: The Strange Creatures of Mark Nagata. This event will include a kaiju character trading cards and bookmark giveaway, and a youth-led origami workshop. Don’t miss the fun… see you here!

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More about the book:

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Lion Head charges into Melted Candle Man! GAOO!

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Chicken Head swoops down and thrashes Lion Head! GUCHYA!

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The monster battle rages on! GASHAN!

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These kaiju, Japanese creatures delivered as toys to a nine-year-old boy one Christmas day from relatives in Japan, became the catalyst for artist and toymaker Mark Nagata’s career. This is the story of his journey from budding artist to world-renowned Japanese toymaker!

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When Mark Nagata was nine years old, he received a Christmas package in his California home all the way from relatives in Japan. Inside the package, Mark found brightly colored plastic toys. What amazed Mark about these toys was how different they were from his own action figures, being so brightly colored with shimmering, unrecognizable writing on the boxes.

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It didn’t matter that Mark didn’t understand the writing. After conjuring up names for each figure, it was clear that it was love at first sight!

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Monster Maker: The Strange Creatures of Mark Nagata is a biographical account of toy designer, painter, illustrator, and collector Mark Nagata. From a very young age, Mark was a fan of many classic comic book series, movies and toys. It was the introduction to classic Japanese television shows that truly sparked his creativity, which ultimately led to his success as a toymaker, most specifically kaiju toys.

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Kaiju translates to strange creature but has since come to mean large monster in Japanese. Mark bases his toy design and artwork on this type of creature and his work has flourished into an important and well-recognized art form in the United States and around the world.

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More about Debbi:

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A third-generation Japanese American, Debbi Michiko Florence is the acclaimed author of more than twenty books for children and tweens. Her books have received starred reviews, Junior Library Guild Selections, and inclusion on lists such as Amazon Best Books and the Chicago Public Library Best of the Best. She loves to write stories about friendship and family. Her middle grade novels include Sweet and Sour, This Is How I Roll, A Study in Secrets, and Just Be Cool, Jenna Sakai. She is also the author of the award-winning Jasmine Toguchi chapter book series. A native Californian, Debbi now lives in Connecticut.

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North America's largest interactive comedy murder mystery dinner theatre show is now playing in New Haven, CT! Solve a hilarious true crime murder mystery while you feast on a fantastic dinner. Just beware! The culprit is hiding in plain sight somewhere in the room, and you may find yourself as a Prime Suspect before you know it!

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Join us for an event that is very different from a traditional mystery dinner show. Our actors are not dressed in costume and are hidden in the audience! This results in a fun, social and interactive evening suitable for all adults.

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Each ticket includes our signature award-winning mystery dinner theatre show, along with a full plated dinner, waitstaff gratuity, and plenty of surprises during the show.

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The Greater New Haven Community Chorus presents its winter concert, "GLORY: Music of Justice, Equity and Splendor," on Saturday, Dec. 13, at 7:30 p.m. at Battell Chapel, 400 College St., New Haven. The concert features Vivaldi’s Gloria, RV 589, as well as selections from the African-American Spiritual tradition, John Legend’s “Glory” from the 2014 film "Selma," and more! Tickets at $20 and $10 are available at GNHCC.org.

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Vespro della Beata Vergine (Vespers for the Blessed Virgin), SV 206, is a musical setting by Claudio Monteverdi of the evening vespers on Marian feasts, scored for soloists, choirs, and orchestra. It is an ambitious work in scope and in its variety of style and scoring, and has a duration of around 90 minutes. Published in Venice, with a dedication to Pope Paul V dated 1 September 1610.

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Yale Schola Cantorum's interim conductor Stefan Parkman leads the ensemble in this program at Woolsey Hall.

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Free and open to the public.

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Livestream link

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View event page

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Contact: Jeff Hazewinkel

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Schola Cantorum  is a chamber choir that performs sacred music from the sixteenth century to the present day in concert settings and choral services around the world. It is sponsored by Yale Institute of Sacred Music and led by interim conductor Stefan Parkman. Masaaki Suzuki is the ensemble’s principal guest conductor. Open by audition to students from all departments and professional schools across Yale University, the choir has a special interest in historically informed performance practice, often in collaboration with instrumentalists from Juilliard415.

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 Taylor Mac ’s beloved annual holiday extravaganza, Holiday Sauce blends music, burlesque and random acts of fabulousness in the most subversive and cathartic event of the season. Ibsen Award winner and MacArthur Fellow Taylor Mac (who uses “judy” as a gender pronoun) invites long-time collaborators (including  Matt Ray  as music director with looks and appearances from  Machine Dazzle ) and surprise special guests to celebrate the holidays in all of their dysfunction. There is more to the holidays than rampant gift giving—in Taylor’s world, creativity and imagination are their own spirituality. Taylor Mac reminds us of the collective power of our chosen families, a message that rings true in spite of capitalism’s attempt to hijack the holidays. Holiday Sauce is produced by  Pomegranate Arts.

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"‘Taylor Mac’s Holiday Sauce’ will cure your Christmas blues... plies acerbic wit, subversive politics, circus pageantry, sartorial riot and boundless compassion to the holidays"

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San Francisco Chronicle

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Meet the Artists:

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Taylor Mac

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MacArthur fellow

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Machine Dazzle

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Costume Designer / Ensemble 

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Matt Ray

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Theater-Maker, Composer, Pianist, Singer, Songwriter, Arranger, & Music Director.

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Pomegranate Arts

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Creative and Executive Producer 

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"Tremendously charismatic...an extravagant celebration of queerness and chosen family"

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Bay Area News Group (Mercury News, East Bay Times)

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Greater New Haven Community Chorus presents "GLORY: music of justice, equity & splendor." Featuring Vivaldi’s Gloria RV 589 as well as the music of Ariel Ramirez, selections from the African American Spiritual tradition, John Legend’s “Glory” from the 2014 film Selma, and more!

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 Sunday Club Canvas is in session! 

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Looking for a creative weekend DROP Off activity for your child? Join us for a fun, relaxing painting class — no experience needed!

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 In this 1.5-hour class, our friendly staff will guide students step-by-step through a new painting each session. With loose, organic brushstrokes and a no-pressure vibe, everyone leaves with their own masterpiece!

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 Sundays 9:30-11AM

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 Techniques you can practice at home

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 Attend weekly, monthly, or just once in a while — it’s up to you!

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 $25 per class | Discounted class packs available

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 Classes run year-round

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 Pre-registration is required – call or register online today to save your spot!

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https://www.thegigglingpig.com/newhaven-club-canvas

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 Let your weekend creativity shine with Sunday Club Canvas!

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#TheGigglingPig #SundayClubCanvas #FamilyArtClass #PaintAndRelax #CreativeKids #WeekendFun #NewHavenArts #GigglingPigNewHaven

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Exhibition open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm with free parking and admission EXCEPT Saturday, June 7; Friday, July 4 (Independence Day); Thursday, November 27 (Thanksgiving Day); Wednesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve); and Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day).

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In remembrance of Pope Francis, who passed on April 21, 2025, the Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center is honored to present this exhibit illustrating the pope’s outreach to the peripheries during his 47 international trips.

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Learn more: https://www.michaelmcgivneycenter.org/exhibits/francis-pope-of-the-peripheries/

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Exhibition open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm with free parking and admission EXCEPT Thursday, November 27 (Thanksgiving); Wednesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve); and Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day).

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For centuries people around the world have celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ and numerous traditions have been incorporated into the Christmas season. Advent calendars, Christmas trees, and the display of the crèche, the three-dimensional representation of the Nativity scene, are just a few of these traditions. These traditions also incorporate other important Christian figures and events in Christ’s life, such as St. Nicholas Day and the Feast of the Epiphany.

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This Christmas, the Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center presents the exhibit, The Spirit of Christmas, which features crèches and other artwork from around the globe celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and traditions and feast days during the season.

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Enjoy the Christmas season at the Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center through this exhibit, the supplemental exhibit Away in a Manger and a variety of programs, including our annual Christmastime Family Day. Discover more of our offerings at https://www.michaelmcgivneycenter.org/

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Make the following offerings a part of your family’s holiday tradition!

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Exhibition open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm with free parking and admission EXCEPT Thursday, November 27 (Thanksgiving); Wednesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve); and Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day).

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Many crèches, the three-dimensional representation of the Nativity scene, feature a diversity of settings and stable designs — the most common of which is an open-front wood structure. However, many artisans model their crèches after buildings and landscapes that are native to their homelands.

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This exhibit includes a variety of crèches that showcase different examples of stables and mangers. In addition, it also highlights a handful of works whose settings have been customized for the figures they contain. One of these is the Neapolitan, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, by Cantone and Costabile of Naples, Italy. In addition, a brand-new crèche will be featured in this exhibit: The Nativity at New Haven's St. Mary’s Church, designed by US-based Navidad Nativities, Inc., with figures made in Italy by Original Heide.

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Since 1990, Trees of Hope has served as a holiday tradition in Greater New Haven. This event is open to the public daily and will feature over 160 beautiful holiday displays donated and sponsored by individuals, local businesses and community organizations. Raffle tickets are sold for $1 each and attendees will be able to distribute their tickets towards the displays they would like to win on our raffle platform. It is a fun event for the entire family and a perfect way to get in the holiday spirit and kick off this special season. Trees of Hope is our largest fundraising event and therefore, instrumental in securing the funds necessary to support the brave children and families at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts.

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Trees of Hope will be held on weekdays from 11am–7pm and on weekends 10am - 5pm at the Long Wharf Maritime Center in New Haven, CT, located at 555 Long Wharf Drive, from December 6th through December 14th. 

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https://rmhc-ctma.org/events/ct-trees-of-hope

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 🎉 Support Local This Holiday Season! 🎁✨

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Shop local in the Whitney-Audubon District from November 28 to December 24 and enjoy a sweet treat with your purchase!

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🛍️ Spend $25 or more at participating retailers and present your same-day paper receipt to indulge in one of these delightful offers: • FREE Cupcake from Katalina’s Bakery (74 Whitney Avenue) 🧁 • OR FREE Hot Cocoa from Willoughby’s Coffee & Tea (258 Church Street) ☕

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Explore unique finds at Walker-Loden with antiques, jewelry, and festive gifts, or visit Kathadin Furniture for stunning custom rugs and eclectic treasures. Looking for something sparkling? Gilden’s Jewelers has an exquisite selection of jewelry just for you! Or take a festive art class at The Giggling Pig.

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👉 Check out the Official Rules & Regulations and participating merchants in the Whitney-Audubon Retail & Arts District  or https://theshopsatyale.com/holidaysonwhitney/

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Happy Holidays and happy shopping local! ❤️

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 🎉 Support Local This Holiday Season! 🎁✨

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Shop local in the Whitney-Audubon District from November 28 to December 24 and enjoy a sweet treat with your purchase!

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🛍️ Spend $25 or more at participating retailers and present your same-day paper receipt to indulge in one of these delightful offers: • FREE Cupcake from Katalina’s Bakery (74 Whitney Avenue) 🧁 • OR FREE Hot Cocoa from Willoughby’s Coffee & Tea (258 Church Street) ☕

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Explore unique finds at Walker-Loden with antiques, jewelry, and festive gifts, or visit Kathadin Furniture for stunning custom rugs and eclectic treasures. Looking for something sparkling? Gilden’s Jewelers has an exquisite selection of jewelry just for you! Or take a festive art class at The Giggling Pig.

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👉 Check out the Official Rules & Regulations and participating merchants in the Whitney-Audubon Retail & Arts District  or https://theshopsatyale.com/holidaysonwhitney/

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Happy Holidays and happy shopping local! ❤️

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 🎉 Indulge in Sweet Treats This Holiday Season! ☕🍪✨

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From November 28 to December 24, enjoy FREE Gourmet Hot Cocoa or a Cookie with your purchase at The Shops at Yale!

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🛍️ Spend $50 or more at participating retailers and present your same-day paper or digital receipt to delight in one of these festive treats: • FREE Gourmet Hot Cocoa from Claire’s Corner Copia (1000 Chapel Street) ☕ • OR a FREE Cookie from Cookie39 (39 Broadway) 🍪

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Shop local and discover unique gifts while fueling your holiday spirit!

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👉 Check out the official rules & regulations and participating merchants at The Shops at Yale Holiday

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or https://theshopsatyale.com/holiday/

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Happy Holidays and happy shopping! 🎁❤️

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Discover the artistry of rug tufting, a creative process where participants will sketch a pattern on a cloth, then use a tufting gun to inject the yarn into the cloth.

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Participants will delve into the hands-on experience of tufting their own unique designs. The process begins with sketching a pattern on a cloth, followed by using a tufting gun to intricately inject yarn into the fabric canvas. Each participant will be assigned the use of tufting gun and frame, all materials will be provided to create a rug approximately 20" x24". Over the two sessions participants will create a carpet of their own design which they can take home.

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What to Expect:

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Participants will explore the fascinating world of rug tufting, with each attendee provided with the necessary tools, including a tufting gun and frame. With expert guidance, you'll bring your vision to life, creating a stunning rug approximately 20" x 24".

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This class runs over 2 sessions: Sunday 10a - 5p & Monday 7p - 9p. The Monday session is for finishing the backing on your rug. If you cannot make the Monday portion, please inform the instructor so your rugs method can be adjusted to finish in one day. 

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Skills Learned:

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• Sketching rug designs on cloth

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• Operating a tufting gun with precision

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• Weaving techniques for texture and color variety

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Who Should Take This Class:

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This workshop welcomes both beginners and those with some experience eager to explore the art of rug tufting and bring their designs to life.

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What's Provided:

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• All necessary materials for rug tufting, including yarn and fabric canvas.

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• Expert guidance and assistance throughout both sessions.

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• Tufting gun and frame assigned for individual use

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Reserve your spot now for a captivating journey into the art of rug tufting. Limited spaces available. Unleash your creativity and take home a unique carpet crafted by your own hands!

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This class runs over 2 sessions: Sunday 10a - 5p & Monday 7p - 9p. The Monday session is for finishing the backing on your rug. If you cannot make the Monday portion, please inform the instructor so your rugs method can be adjusted to finish in one day. 

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Instructor: Vanessa Reyes

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Workshop Ticket Fee :

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Standard Public Ticket: $157.00

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MakeHaven members: $134.00

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You must click below and REGISTER to attend at:

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https://www.makehaven.org/civicrm/event/info?id=558&reset=1&reset=1

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Scroll to the bottom of the page and complete the information under Register (gray box) and hit submit. You will receive an acknowledgement by email. Questions? Email info@makehaven.org

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 🎉 Holiday Shopping Made Easy! 🚗✨

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Enjoy FREE 2-HOUR PARKING at The Shops at Yale from November 28 to December 24!

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🛍️ Simply make a same-day purchase of $50 or more at any retailer or restaurant, and present your paper or digital receipt to the parking lot attendant when exiting.

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Participating locations include:

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• 56 Broadway

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• 255 Crown Street

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Take advantage of this festive offer and shop local while enjoying the convenience of complimentary parking!

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👉 Don’t miss out on this holiday perk!

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 Happy Holidays and happy shopping! 🎁❤️

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https://theshopsatyale.com/holiday/

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Step into the world of metalworking with our comprehensive lathe workshop, where safety meets precision and creativity knows no bounds. This hands-on class covers all the essentials of lathe operation, from safety protocols to basic machining techniques, empowering you to bring your metalworking dreams to life.

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What to Expect:  This comprehensive class begins with  1.5–2 hours of lecture and discussion , covering foundational knowledge and safety practices before heading to the shop floor. After the discussion, you’ll move to the machines for hands-on learning through a guided project. From selecting and setting up tools to mastering the art of stock installation and part turning, you'll gain hands-on experience in every aspect of the lathe workflow. Through a series of interactive demonstrations and practical exercises, you'll learn essential skills such as filing, drilling, and maintaining concentricity, ensuring that each part you create meets the highest standards of precision and quality.

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Skills You'll Acquire:

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• Selecting and setting up tools in the lathe toolholder
• Applying a file to remove burrs from a part
• Installing stock in the lathe chuck for turning purposes
• Maintaining basic concentricity in a part
• Using a drill chuck in the lathe tailstock
• Properly drilling holes in metalwork

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Please note:

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Participants must watch the following two videos before the class:

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Manual Metalworking Lathe Basics

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Metalworking Metrology

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(Note: Participants *must* watch the two videos listed above. Anyone who has not watched the videos may be asked to leave, no refund will be issued.)

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What's Provided:  All necessary tools and materials will be provided for the workshop, ensuring that you have everything you need to dive into the exciting world of metal lathe machining. Additionally, safety glasses and other necessary safety equipment will be available for participants to use.

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Who Should Attend:  This workshop is perfect for beginners and hobbyists eager to explore the art of metalworking. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast, a budding machinist, or simply curious about expanding your skill set, this class offers a welcoming environment for learners of all backgrounds and experience levels.

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Prerequisites/Safety Information:  Prior to the workshop,  participants are required to watch two instructional videos on  lathe basics  and  metalworking metrology. This ensures that everyone enters the workshop with a foundational understanding of lathe operation and safety protocols. Participants are also required to wear closed-toe shoes and avoid wearing any loose or dangling clothing or accessories during the workshop to ensure personal safety.

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Participants will receive a link to class materials in their confirmation email and are  strongly encouraged to review the content ahead of time  to get the most out of the in-person session.

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Instructor : Brandon DaSilva

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Workshop Ticket Fee :

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Standard Ticket $228.00

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MakeHaven Members: $193.00

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You must click below and REGISTER to attend at:

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https://www.makehaven.org/civicrm/event/info?id=647&reset=1&reset=1

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Scroll to the bottom of the page and complete the information under Register (gray box) and hit submit. You will receive an acknowledgement by email. Questions? Email info@makehaven.org

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Christmas Tree Festival open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm with free parking and admission EXCEPT Wednesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve) and Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day).

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The Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center’s Christmas Tree Festival is a seasonal highlight. This popular display showcases the imagination and creativity of Connecticut Catholic elementary schoolchildren. These students create handmade ornaments and trimmings in the theme of The Spirit of Christmas exhibition prior to traveling to the McGivney Center to decorate a school tree.

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All 20 trees will be completed and on display to the public beginning December 6, 2025. Explore all the trees and be sure to vote for your favorite Christmas Tree in the People’s Choice Award!

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Bring the whole family to the Shore Line Trolley Museum this holiday season for a magical  Visit with Santa! Running  Thanksgiving weekend  and  weekends in December  through  December 21st , this festive event is packed with holiday fun.

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  What’s Included?

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• Take a cozy ride to Santa aboard our  heated trolley , beautifully decorated for the season.
• Tell Santa what’s on your Christmas list and receive a  small gift.
• Take lots of photos  with Santa to capture the special moment.
• Enjoy a cup of  hot chocolate  to warm up!
• Stroll through the museum and check out the  holiday-decorated trolleys.
• Visit our  museum store  for unique and thoughtful gift ideas.

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  Most of the event takes place outside , so dress warmly and get ready for a fun, festive day filled with holiday cheer!

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  Dates:

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• Thanksgiving Weekend
• Weekends in December  until  December 21st

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Create lasting holiday memories with a visit to Santa at the Shore Line Trolley Museum!

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Artists' open studio featuring work by half a dozen southern New England potters, jewelers, print-makers, and even a poet who will write a stanza or two for you while you wait. Exhibitors include: Mary Barringer of Shelburne Falls MA, Hayne Bayless and Mara Lavitt of Ivoryton, Pascal Chmelar of New Haven, Greg Kerstetter of North Hampton MA, Liz Pagano of New Haven, and Sam Taylor of Westhampton MA.

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EveryBody Dances @ Yale Schwarzman Center brings local and visiting dance artists to our Dance Studio to teach masterclasses in jazz, hip hop, salsa, modern, contemporary, precision dance and more! All community members are welcome. This week's class is titled Building Burlesque: Bigger, Better, Bawdier led by  Tigger! 

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Class Description: 

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Wanna try your hand (and the rest of your body) at Burlesque? Or improve the ecdysiast skills that you have? 

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Set the stage on fire & go from talented to TNT! A long-time collaborator with Taylor Mac (Holiday Sauce), Tigger! is an acclaimed pioneer of today's Burlesque Renaissance, as well as a trained actor & teacher who has been "acting like a stripper" since 1992. His class will break down what makes a burlesque performer stand out. Learn techniques & tips to make the most of what you've already got & take your performances to the next level. 

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This is an interactive lecture with burlesque acting & burlesque movement exercises. Be prepared to take notes. Bring clothing you can comfortably move in & shoes you'd feel good performing in, along with an extra layer that you can readily & beautifully remove! (No actual nudity involved in this class.)

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Yearning for a tree, but don’t have a car or just don’t ever want to leave downtown? Now you don’t have to! Visit the Downtown NHV Tree Farm for a fun and festive experience finding your new tree!

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New Haven’s New Holiday Market Winterfair 2025 has expanded to New Haven Union Station. Find us on the second level of the Great Hall. The holiday market will be home to over 30 vendors each of the seven market days starting the first Saturday after Thanksgiving. Over 100 small, local, diverse businesses are set to participate. Spend the holidays in New Haven.

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Saturdays & Sundays

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11 AM - 4PM

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November 29th - December 21st*

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*CLOSED December 7th

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50 Union Avenue

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New Haven, CT

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The Guilford Art Center’s annual Holiday Expo returns November 14, 2025 – January 11, 2026, offering an extraordinary selection of handcrafted gifts from hundreds of local and regional artists and makers.

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For the season, the GAC Shop doubles in size, filling both the shop and the gallery space with one-of-a-kind treasures: jewelry, home goods, clothing, accessories, ornaments, specialty foods, and more. Each piece is handmade with care, making the gift as unique as the person receiving it.

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 New this year, the Holiday Expo will also feature a special section of work by members of the Lyme Artisans Guild , known for their exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to preserving traditional techniques. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase their beautiful, locally made creations alongside other Holiday Expo artists. The Guild’s mission closely aligns with GAC’s, making for an exciting seasonal partnership.

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 “The Holiday Expo is a celebration of creativity and community,” says Maureen Belden, Executive Director of Guilford Art Center. “When you shop here, you’re not just finding a beautiful, handmade gift—you’re supporting local artists, investing in their livelihoods, and helping to sustain the arts in our region. Every purchase makes a difference.”

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 Lyme Artisans Guild President Carol Stanland adds, “Handcrafts are very much about community and making connections with people in a community, making any acquisition more meaningful than it would otherwise be. We at LAG very much enjoy sharing our process as well as our products. Knowledge about process gives our products depth.”

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 New items arrive throughout the season, so there’s always something fresh to discover. Personal shoppers are available to help with selections, and businesses can arrange custom gift packages for employees.

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 Events:

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• November 14: Opening Reception, 5–7pm
• November 15: Egyptian Coil Chaining Demo (for wire jewelry) with Michelle Pearson
• November 22: Gel Printing on Paper Demo with Barbara Eaglesham
• December 13: Color and Pattern Matching in Fabric Design Demo with Carol Stanland

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 Proceeds benefit the artists and fund Guilford Art Center’s educational and community programs.

​

Holiday Expo Hours:

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November 14, 2025 – January 11, 2026

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Mon–Sat, 10am–5pm | Sun, 12–5pm

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  Location: Guilford Art Center, 411 Church Street, Guilford, CT

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More information: www.guilfordartcenter.org | facebook.com/guilfordartcenter

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Phone: 203-453-5947

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The Guilford Art Center’s annual Holiday Expo returns November 14, 2025 – January 11, 2026, offering an extraordinary selection of handcrafted gifts from hundreds of independent artists and makers. The community is invited to the free Opening Reception event on Friday, Nov 14 from 5-7pm.

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For the season, the GAC Shop doubles in size, filling both the shop and the gallery space with one-of-a-kind treasures: jewelry, home goods, clothing, accessories, ornaments, specialty foods, and more. Each piece is handmade with care, making the gift as unique as the person receiving it.

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New this year, the Holiday Expo will also feature a special section of work by members of the Lyme Artisans Guild , known for their exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to preserving traditional techniques. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase their beautiful, locally made creations alongside other Holiday Expo artists. The Guild’s mission closely aligns with GAC’s, making for an exciting seasonal partnership.

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“The Holiday Expo is a celebration of creativity and community,” says Maureen Belden, Executive Director of Guilford Art Center. “When you shop here, you’re not just finding a beautiful, handmade gift—you’re supporting local artists, investing in their livelihoods, and helping to sustain the arts in our region. Every purchase makes a difference.”

​

​

Lyme Artisans Guild President Carol Stanland adds, “Handcrafts are very much about community and making connections with people in a community, making any acquisition more meaningful than it would otherwise be. We at LAG very much enjoy sharing our process as well as our products. Knowledge about process gives our products depth.”

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New items arrive throughout the season, so there’s always something fresh to discover. Personal shoppers are available to help with selections, and businesses can arrange custom gift packages for employees.

​

Events:

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• November 14: Opening Reception, 5–7pm
• November 15: Egyptian Coil Chaining Demo (for wire jewelry) with Michelle Pearson
• November 22: Gel Printing on Paper Demo with Barbara Eaglesham
• December 13: Color and Pattern Matching in Fabric Design Demo with Carol Stanland

​

Proceeds benefit the artists and fund Guilford Art Center’s educational and community programs.

​

Holiday Expo Hours:

​

November 14, 2025 – January 11, 2026

​

Mon–Sat, 10am–5pm | Sun, 12–5pm

​

Location: Guilford Art Center, 411 Church Street, Guilford, CT

​

More information: www.guilfordartcenter.org | facebook.com/guilfordartcenter

​

Phone: 203-453-5947

​

​

 The Art of Dreaming - Spectrum Art Gallery Holiday Exhibit Opens November 21

​

With the holidays approaching, Spectrum Art Gallery presents The Art of Dreaming. This season find imagination, memory, and hope especially alive as this exhibit explores the boundless world of dreams—where fantasy, romance, and the surreal converge. Discover fine art and photography by established and emerging artists, alongside the Artisans Store filled to the brim with holiday items and seasonal gifts such as pottery, glass, fiber, jewelry, home décor, paper art, and handmade ornaments displayed on Spectrum’s two 6-foot holiday trees.  Start the holidays right at an Open Gallery Reception on Friday, November 21 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Enjoy fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments that evening and all throughout the Open House Weekend, Saturday, November 22 (1 to 6pm), and Sunday, November 23 (1-5pm). The Art of Dreaming runs through January 10, 2026. Spectrum Gallery, voted Best Gallery and Best Jewelry Store on the Shoreline, is located at 61 Main St., Centerbrook, CT. Regular Gallery Hours are Wed-Sat (12-6pm) and Sun (12-5pm). Between December 6 - 24, Gallery is open Mon-Sat.  12-6pm; Suns. 12-5pm and on Dec 24, 11am-2pm. For more information about exhibits and classes, workshops, and summer camps for adults, teens, and children, call (860) 767-0742 and visit spectrumartgallery.org. Shop online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the US. Follow Spectrum social media at facebook.com/spectrumartgallery, instagram.com/spectrumartgallery, x.com/spectrum_ct, and youtube.com/@spectrumgallery6211

​

​

 The Art of Dreaming - Spectrum Art Gallery Holiday Exhibit Opens November 21

​

With the holidays approaching, Spectrum Art Gallery presents The Art of Dreaming. This season find imagination, memory, and hope especially alive as this exhibit explores the boundless world of dreams—where fantasy, romance, and the surreal converge. Discover fine art and photography by established and emerging artists, alongside the Artisans Store filled to the brim with holiday items and seasonal gifts such as pottery, glass, fiber, jewelry, home décor, paper art, and handmade ornaments displayed on Spectrum’s two 6-foot holiday trees.  Start the holidays right at an Open Gallery Reception on Friday, November 21 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Enjoy fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments that evening and all throughout the Open House Weekend, Saturday, November 22 (1 to 6pm), and Sunday, November 23 (1-5pm). The Art of Dreaming runs through January 10, 2026. Spectrum Gallery, voted Best Gallery and Best Jewelry Store on the Shoreline, is located at 61 Main St., Centerbrook, CT. Regular Gallery Hours are Wed-Sat (12-6pm) and Sun (12-5pm). Between December 6 - 24, Gallery is open Mon-Sat.  12-6pm; Suns. 12-5pm and on Dec 24, 11am-2pm. For more information about exhibits and classes, workshops, and summer camps for adults, teens, and children, call (860) 767-0742 and visit spectrumartgallery.org. Shop online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the US. Follow Spectrum social media at facebook.com/spectrumartgallery, instagram.com/spectrumartgallery, x.com/spectrum_ct, and youtube.com/@spectrumgallery6211

​

​

 The Art of Dreaming - Spectrum Art Gallery Holiday Exhibit Opens November 21

​

With the holidays approaching, Spectrum Art Gallery presents The Art of Dreaming. This season find imagination, memory, and hope especially alive as this exhibit explores the boundless world of dreams—where fantasy, romance, and the surreal converge. Discover fine art and photography by established and emerging artists, alongside the Artisans Store filled to the brim with holiday items and seasonal gifts such as pottery, glass, fiber, jewelry, home décor, paper art, and handmade ornaments displayed on Spectrum’s two 6-foot holiday trees.  Start the holidays right at an Open Gallery Reception on Friday, November 21 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Enjoy fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments that evening and all throughout the Open House Weekend, Saturday, November 22 (1 to 6pm), and Sunday, November 23 (1-5pm). The Art of Dreaming runs through January 10, 2026. Spectrum Gallery, voted Best Gallery and Best Jewelry Store on the Shoreline, is located at 61 Main St., Centerbrook, CT. Regular Gallery Hours are Wed-Sat (12-6pm) and Sun (12-5pm). Between December 6 - 24, Gallery is open Mon-Sat.  12-6pm; Suns. 12-5pm and on Dec 24, 11am-2pm. For more information about exhibits and classes, workshops, and summer camps for adults, teens, and children, call (860) 767-0742 and visit spectrumartgallery.org. Shop online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the US. Follow Spectrum social media at facebook.com/spectrumartgallery, instagram.com/spectrumartgallery, x.com/spectrum_ct, and youtube.com/@spectrumgallery6211

​

​

 The Art of Dreaming - Spectrum Art Gallery Holiday Exhibit Opens November 21

​

With the holidays approaching, Spectrum Art Gallery presents The Art of Dreaming. This season find imagination, memory, and hope especially alive as this exhibit explores the boundless world of dreams—where fantasy, romance, and the surreal converge. Discover fine art and photography by established and emerging artists, alongside the Artisans Store filled to the brim with holiday items and seasonal gifts such as pottery, glass, fiber, jewelry, home décor, paper art, and handmade ornaments displayed on Spectrum’s two 6-foot holiday trees.  Start the holidays right at an Open Gallery Reception on Friday, November 21 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Enjoy fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments that evening and all throughout the Open House Weekend, Saturday, November 22 (1 to 6pm), and Sunday, November 23 (1-5pm). The Art of Dreaming runs through January 10, 2026. Spectrum Gallery, voted Best Gallery and Best Jewelry Store on the Shoreline, is located at 61 Main St., Centerbrook, CT. Regular Gallery Hours are Wed-Sat (12-6pm) and Sun (12-5pm). Between December 6 - 24, Gallery is open Mon-Sat.  12-6pm; Suns. 12-5pm and on Dec 24, 11am-2pm. For more information about exhibits and classes, workshops, and summer camps for adults, teens, and children, call (860) 767-0742 and visit spectrumartgallery.org. Shop online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the US. Follow Spectrum social media at facebook.com/spectrumartgallery, instagram.com/spectrumartgallery, x.com/spectrum_ct, and youtube.com/@spectrumgallery6211

​

​

 The Art of Dreaming - Spectrum Art Gallery Holiday Exhibit Opens November 21

​

With the holidays approaching, Spectrum Art Gallery presents The Art of Dreaming. This season find imagination, memory, and hope especially alive as this exhibit explores the boundless world of dreams—where fantasy, romance, and the surreal converge. Discover fine art and photography by established and emerging artists, alongside the Artisans Store filled to the brim with holiday items and seasonal gifts such as pottery, glass, fiber, jewelry, home décor, paper art, and handmade ornaments displayed on Spectrum’s two 6-foot holiday trees.  Start the holidays right at an Open Gallery Reception on Friday, November 21 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Enjoy fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments that evening and all throughout the Open House Weekend, Saturday, November 22 (1 to 6pm), and Sunday, November 23 (1-5pm). The Art of Dreaming runs through January 10, 2026. Spectrum Gallery, voted Best Gallery and Best Jewelry Store on the Shoreline, is located at 61 Main St., Centerbrook, CT. Regular Gallery Hours are Wed-Sat (12-6pm) and Sun (12-5pm). Between December 6 - 24, Gallery is open Mon-Sat.  12-6pm; Suns. 12-5pm and on Dec 24, 11am-2pm. For more information about exhibits and classes, workshops, and summer camps for adults, teens, and children, call (860) 767-0742 and visit spectrumartgallery.org. Shop online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the US. Follow Spectrum social media at facebook.com/spectrumartgallery, instagram.com/spectrumartgallery, x.com/spectrum_ct, and youtube.com/@spectrumgallery6211

​

​

 🎶✨ Celebrate the Season with Strolling Connecticut Yuletide Carolers! 🎄🎤

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Join us for a festive celebration as talented carolers, dressed in beautiful traditional garb, fill the air with holiday cheer throughout the Broadway and Chapel Historic Districts!

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When & Where:

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📍 Chapel Street Historic District:

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• Saturdays, November 29, December 6, 13 & 20
• ⏰ Time: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

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📍 Broadway Shopping District:

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• Sundays, November 30, December 7, 14 & 21
• ⏰ Time: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

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📸 Capture the Magic! Don’t miss the great photo opportunities as our merry carolers spread holiday spirit throughout the districts!

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Bring your family and friends to soak in the festive atmosphere and create cherished memories together! 🎉

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👉 For more details, visit The Shops at Yale .

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We are so happy to have the Crafters of Color joining us again this year for a Winter Market in the bookspace. Mark your calendars, because this will be a super sweet opportunity to snap up locally made artisan goods. What better gifts to give than the ones that give back to community? There are none… So let’s make it rain for our beloved makers!

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Ever wanted to create animations like The Amazing World of Gumball (2011), Steven Universe (2013), or The Owl House (2020)? This class teaches the skills you need to start bringing your own animations to life. Begin with exercises that introduce you to the program and key animation concepts, then use the second half of the class to create your own original animated short. Build on the skills you’ve learned in previous classes and bring your ideas to the screen! By the end, you’ll have a great foundation to keep animating.

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This class is great for those that have some prior experience but it is also accessible to those that may be just beginning their animating journey. iPads will be provided or you may bring your own! 

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This annual show and sale features an eclectic mix of local art: photography, painting, pen and ink, mixed media, sculpture and prints by local artists. You'll find creative works of varying sizes and all price ranges. Commit to start your art collection with one purchase per holiday! “Our holiday show is always a joyful mix of colors and styles. We hope you will come by and see what our artists have been working on this year!” says gallery member/artist, Kate Henderson.

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Shop special evening hours at KLG, enjoy hot mulled cider and socialize with your neighbors during the  Westville Village Tree Lighting  on  Saturday, December 13 at 5pm until 7pm. Pre-Game before with our free Holiday Open House and Maker’s Workshop from 3-5pm.  Regular gallery hours are Friday-Sunday, 12-5pm.

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Participating Artists

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Robert Bienstock, Frank Bruckmann, Mary Burke, Bill Butcher, Penrhyn E. Cook, Rod Cook, Thomas Edwards, Chris Ferguson, Brian Flinn, Craig Frederick, Sean Gallagher, Matthew Garrett, Eddie Hall, Kate Henderson, C. Anthony Huber, Sean Kernan, Sheldon Krevit, Sven Martson, Roy Money, Hank Paper, Mark St. Mary, Gar Waterman, R.F. Wilton, Marjorie Wolfe, Dganit Zauberman.

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Overcome the mysteries of the sewing machine and discover how fun and easy it can be! Learn the basics of machine sewing including threading, operating, and troubleshooting.

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Practice using the machine and then move on to simple projects for yourself or for gift-giving. Participants will learn a variety of machine sewing methods including piecing, applique, quilting, and freehand. Potential projects include art pieces, wall hangings, patchwork, quilt patterns, bags, a zippered pouch, table runner, or pillow cover. Tips for altering clothes can also be covered. Previous students are welcome to attend and work on more advanced projects.

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Tuition for this class includes a fee of $15 for basic materials provided by CAW.

​

Explore the art of Hew Locke in this docent-led tour focused on the artist’s powerful visual commentary on identity, migration, and history’s enduring impact.

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Join our volunteer museum educators and see three decades of Locke’s work in sculpture, photography, and found materials that the artist uses to question and unravel symbols of empire. Discover how he reimagines the iconography and legacies of colonialism.

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Tours meet in the Entrance Court by the Visitor Services desk.

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A new FREE holiday tradition returns on Sunday, Dec. 14th from 1-5 pm at Ball & Socket Arts!

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Join us for an outdoor European-style winter market celebrating the season with ice carving, fine artisan vendors, tastings from local CT distillers, tasty food trucks, and more.

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A new FREE holiday tradition returns on Sunday, Dec. 14th from 1-5 pm at Ball & Socket Arts!

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Join us for an outdoor European-style winter market celebrating the season with ice carving, fine artisan vendors, tastings from local CT distillers, tasty food trucks, and more.

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Celebrate the cozy season with loved ones at a festive holiday stroll! We’ll have ice carving demos, music, food trucks, and local artisans selling perfect last minute gift items. Not to mention a photo-perfect Gingerbread Village to take a great family snapshot (and a Krampus if you’ve been naughty).

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In Building 3, we’ll have a new exhibition on view sharing our Silent Art Auction (closing Dec. 16th) and documenting the factory’s evolution from an abandoned space to a thriving arts center.

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Please note this is an indoor/outdoor event, with most of the booths and activities taking place outdoors. Please dress warmly.

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Event runs from 1-5 pm. On-site parking will be limited, please consider walking or bicycling if you can. Off-site parking is available at the municipal lots along Railroad Avenue.

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Holiday @ the Factory 2025 Sponsors (to date! Contact our team to learn more):

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Live Music Sponsor

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Peragallo Construction:

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Holiday Market Sponsor:

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Jacqueline Laramee

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Schedule:

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1-5 pm

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·     Free Live Music from Local Legends

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·     Experience Visual Art in the Workshop Gallery, including our Online Art Auction pieces!

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·     Holiday market featuring local artisans & makers

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·     Children’s art activities with the P.L.A.C.E. Trolley

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·     Tasty food from a range of local restaurants/food trucks

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·     Sales from local distillers and breweries

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·     Tour Artsplace in Building 2 & find a class!

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2-3:30 pm:

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·     Ice Carving Demonstration by Ice Matters

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@2 pm, 3 pm, and 4 pm: Short architectural walking tours with our architect, David Arai (roughly 15 minutes, leaving from the Workshop Gallery)

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@1:30, 2:30 and 3:30: Short historical tours with our historian, Agnes Wnuk (roughly 15 minutes)

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Participating Businesses and Vendors:

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·      Ice Carving Live Demonstration from Ice Matters 2-3:30 pm

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·      Gingerbread Lane & Krampus Photo Stations (featuring lumber donated by Lyon & Billard Lumber)

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·     Artisan Vendor Market!

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Food and Drink:

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·     Amy Cakes LLC

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·     Crispy Melty (Grilled Cheese & More)

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·     Hot Soup & Hot Cocoa Bar with our neighbor, Pop’s Pizza

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·     Wright Way Burger Truck

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Locally Made Spirits and Adult Beverages (for take-home sales only):

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·     Fifth State Distillery

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·     Quiver Spirits

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·     Counter Weight Brewing

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·     New England Cider

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Live @ the Factory Stage from 1-5 pm curated by Joel Renker featuring local talent.

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Artisan Vendors Featured:

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Blossom Beyond Ability

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Clay & Crumb

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Glass Garden

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Guided By Goats

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Handweaver's Workshop

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KelDel Creations

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Kobo Studio

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Langslow Handmade 

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Lar’s Creations 

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Quinnipiac Valley Alpacas

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Shire Stitches

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Sunshine & Lorraine 

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In this workshop make five holiday unique craft home décor projects to display or for gift giving. Create and learn the techniques to make an origami paper wreath, an upgraded to go coffee cup as a snowman holiday candy container, a unique gift bag, a paper tree and a triangle snowman box. Take home a detailed instruction workshop sheet, list of supplies, information about the techniques and photos of the projects. To make more holiday home décor projects, you will receive a kit which will include cardstock, die cut pieces, coordinating colored cardstock and any other supplies needed to make more of these projects on your own. No experience is necessary for this workshop just holiday spirit!

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Introducing Nancy Souza, a teacher, mixed media artist and crafter. Creating unique cards and paper projects using a variety of techniques, colorful cardstock and card layouts including inks, stencils, collage, upcycled vintage items, and more. Souza is a certified teacher, teaching at the elementary & high school levels and graduate level courses at Sacred Heart University Griswold High School campus, including her 6th Year post graduate level.

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Twenty-six years ago, a teaching colleague suggested Nancy sign up for a local card making class and the rest is history. It’s been an interesting and rewarding crafting journey both taking classes, sharing with crafting friends and teaching fellow crafters. Souza is a proud Certified Educator, completing 85 cards/projects posted on her Blog and a virtual class demo. Now she is creating samples for Altenew using new release items…and of course, her favorite color is glitter!

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Souza’s work is currently exhibited at Spectrum Gallery in Centerbrook, Connecticut.

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Bring your creativity to life by designing and sewing your own stuffed animals! In this four-session series, held Sundays from November 23 through December 14, participants will learn the full process—from stitching and shaping to adding expressive features and personal details. You’ll explore both hand-sewing and basic embroidery techniques while learning how to customize existing patterns to make your creations truly one-of-a-kind.

​

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This is a 4-part series held on Sundays November 23 - December 14

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What to Expect

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Across four sessions, students will gain confidence in each step of the stuffed animal-making process, with guided instruction and hands-on practice. You’ll start with basic stitches and appliqué, move into embroidery and shaping, and finish with details like horns, fingers, or facial features. By the end, you’ll have the skills to confidently tackle any stuffed animal pattern you pick up.

​

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Skills You’ll Learn

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• Foundational hand-sewing techniques and decorative stitches

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• Appliqué and simple embroidery for unique detailing

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• Planning and placement for embroidery and embellishments

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• Creating darts and gussets for three-dimensional shaping

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• Adding features such as buttons, horns, and expressive faces

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• Customizing and adapting existing stuffed animal patterns

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What’s Provided

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• All essential tools and materials for class use

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• Pattern templates and reference guides

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• Instruction and creative guidance from the instructor

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Who Should Attend

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Perfect for beginners or anyone interested in soft sculpture and textile art. No prior sewing experience is required—just curiosity and creativity!

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4 sessions held Sundays, November 23 – December 14

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Instructor:  Christina Quinonez

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Workshop Ticket Fee:

​

Standard Ticket: $99.00

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MakeHaven Members: 84.00

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You must click below and REGISTER to attend at:

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https://www.makehaven.org/civicrm/event/info?id=654&reset=1&reset=1

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Scroll to the bottom of the page and complete the information under Register (gray box) and hit submit. You will receive an acknowledgement by email. Questions? Email info@makehaven.org

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A mixed media show featuring artwork by Susan Stickney

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Join our Student Guides to learn more about In a New Light: Five Centuries of British Art. Each tour is created by a Student Guide to explore a specific theme in the museum’s collection. 

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Tours meet in the Entrance Court by the Visitors Service Desk

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Award-winning Pantochino Productions presents a new, warm and wonderful musical about a small town with a holiday namesake. Here in Santa Claus, Ohio, everything is all about Christmas—every shop, every restaurant, every day, all year long. But when a hot shot lawyer threatens to ‘cease and desist,’ the jolly old elf himself comes to the rescue! Described as a ‘greeting card channel’ holiday movie live on stage, it’s 100% merry, cheerful, feel good fun!

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‘Welcome to Santa Claus’ features book and lyrics by Bert Bernardi and music by Justin Rugg. Performed at the MAC, Milford Arts Council on Railroad Avenue in downtown Milford, seating for the show is cabaret-style at tables and chairs. Audiences are invited to bring their own food and drink to enjoy during the show. Free parking in all train depot lots at showtime. Sponsored by Berchem Moses PC. Fridays at 7:30pm, Saturdays at 2 and 5:30pm, Sundays at 2pm.

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Get into the holiday spirit at MakeHaven. Decorate cookies, create a colorful melted-crayon ornament, and snip colorful coffee filter snowflakes during an easygoing afternoon of festive fun.

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Join us at MakeHaven for a cozy, holiday-themed creative gathering! We’ll be decorating cookies and trying out a couple insta-famous simple crafts while enjoying the company of other makers. Enjoy a sweet spread of cookies you can decorate, eat on the spot, or take home. All ages and skill levels are welcome—come for the crafts, stay for the community, and leave with handmade holiday cheer!

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Second Sundays is a social gathering for makers. Whether you're working on something wild and wonderful, or still brainstorming your next big idea, this is the perfect space to show it off or bounce ideas around. We want to see what you’ve been up to, hear your stories, and get inspired by each other’s creativity. Snacks provided; feel free to bring a favorite to share if inspired.

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What to bring: We have everything needed,  but if you want to contribute or bring your favorites, feel free to bring crayons (I hear Crayola works best!), any favorite cookies to decorate or icings or sprinkles you especially like. You're also welcome to bring any holidayish snack or beverage to share if you like.

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Instructor: Nick Baccala

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You must click below and REGISTER to attend at:

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https://www.makehaven.org/civicrm/event/info?id=304&reset=1&reset=1

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Scroll to the bottom of the page and complete the information under Register (gray box) and hit submit. You will receive an acknowledgement by email. Questions? Email info@makehaven.org

​

Join our volunteer museum educators for an in-depth tour of the museum’s iconic building, designed by modernist architect Louis I. Kahn (1901–1974). 

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Tours meet in the Entrance Court by the Visitor Services desk. 

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Please join us for an enchanting evening of Indian Classical Music with tabla artist Ranendra Das and sarod maestro Satyaki Dutta. Doors open at 3:30PM. Concert starts at 4PM.

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ADVANCE TICKET PRICES EFFECTIVE THROUGH 11:59PM SATURDAY DECEMBER 13. After that time, door admission prices are in effect.

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Zelle / Venmo RSVP here: https://forms.gle/1hrZSG7JfUqyhnd57

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Secure debit/credit card payment via Square:

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Advance tickets AGES 16+ https://square.link/u/gEKBip0f

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Advance tickets KIDS AGE 6-15 https://square.link/u/arSKTgO6

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This is "all in" pricing, and it includes post-show refreshments and a meet-and-greet with the artists.

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Ranendra Das' formal tabla training began at age 3, and has continued ever since. Ranendra graduated Cum Laude with his BM in Performance from the University of Bridgeport, studying Western Classical and Indian Classical music with Tabla as his primary instrument. He earned his MFA in Interdisciplinary Arts from Goddard College. Ranendra and his wife Pamela founded PARA Academy of Music and Arts, LLC in 2018. He teaches and performs in the New York Tri-State area, nationally, and internationally. Selected venues where Ranendra has performed include Madison Square Garden; The Metropolitan Museum of Art; Symphony Space; Lake Eden Arts Festival (LEAF); Mystic Seaport Sea Music Festival; International Festival of Arts & Ideas; and a performance for President Obama in Washington, D.C.

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Satyaki Dutta is a Sarod artist representing the Sarod Gharanas (schools) of Shahjahanpur. He had the privilege to learn from the legendary Sarod maestro of Senia-Shahjahanpur Gharana Padmabhushan Pandit Buddhadev DasGupta and also took his initial lessons from Sri Panab Naha. Satyaki holds a PhD degree in Mathematics and resides in Westchester County, New York. He is a member of Westchester Musicians’ Guild and a rostered artist at NYC-based Concerts in Motion, which brings personalized live music and engagement to older adults, veterans, Holocaust survivors, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with mental illness of all ages.

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 Taylor Mac ’s beloved annual holiday extravaganza, Holiday Sauce blends music, burlesque and random acts of fabulousness in the most subversive and cathartic event of the season. Ibsen Award winner and MacArthur Fellow Taylor Mac (who uses “judy” as a gender pronoun) invites long-time collaborators (including  Matt Ray  as music director with looks and appearances from  Machine Dazzle ) and surprise special guests to celebrate the holidays in all of their dysfunction. There is more to the holidays than rampant gift giving—in Taylor’s world, creativity and imagination are their own spirituality. Taylor Mac reminds us of the collective power of our chosen families, a message that rings true in spite of capitalism’s attempt to hijack the holidays. Holiday Sauce is produced by  Pomegranate Arts.

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"‘Taylor Mac’s Holiday Sauce’ will cure your Christmas blues... plies acerbic wit, subversive politics, circus pageantry, sartorial riot and boundless compassion to the holidays"

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San Francisco Chronicle

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Meet the Artists:

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Taylor Mac

​

MacArthur fellow

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Machine Dazzle

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Costume Designer / Ensemble 

​

Matt Ray

​

Theater-Maker, Composer, Pianist, Singer, Songwriter, Arranger, & Music Director.

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Pomegranate Arts

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Creative and Executive Producer 

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"Tremendously charismatic...an extravagant celebration of queerness and chosen family"

​

Bay Area News Group (Mercury News, East Bay Times)

​

TEDxProspect Hill is an independently organized TEDx event licensed under the global TEDx platform. Rooted in the Prospect Hill neighborhood of New Haven, this event brings together voices from the community, nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and academia to foster dialogue, build connections, and create opportunities for meaningful partnerships. By bridging gaps between groups, TEDxProspect Hill seeks to amplify diverse perspectives and strengthen collaboration across sectors. ​​ This year, we are exploring the theme "What If?", inviting the community to share perspectives that spark conversation and reimagine the systems we live within.

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The Civic Orchestra of New Haven (CONH), led by Maestro Nadya

​

Potemkina, invites you to step into the sparkle of the season with their Winter Concert, "Tutus & Tinsel", on Sunday,December 14 at 4:00 p.m. at the historic Battell Chapel in downtown New Haven.

​

This whimsical winter concert pairs elegance with cheer, from the shimmering grace of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake and the classical brilliance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 to the spirited energy of Louise Farrenc’s Overture No. 1. The program wraps up with festive holiday selections sure to leave everyone in the audience glowing brighter than the tree lights.

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Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and students, and free for children.

​

For more information about the concert and the orchestra, visit

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www.civicorchestraofnewhaven.org, follow the Civic Orchestra of New Haven on Facebook, or email info@civicorchestraofnewhaven.org.

​

Celebrating more than eight decades of music-making, the Civic Orchestra of New Haven brings together over 60 professional and passionate amateur musicians, sharing the joy of live orchestral performance with the community. Tutu optional, but highly encouraged!

​

New Haven, Conn.: The Civic Orchestra of New Haven (CONH), led by Maestro Nadya

​

Potemkina, invites you to step into the sparkle of the season with Tutus & Tinsel on Sunday, December 14 at 4:00 p.m. at the historic Battell Chapel in downtown New Haven.

​

This whimsical winter concert pairs elegance with cheer, from the shimmering grace of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake and the classical brilliance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 to the spirited energy of Louise Farrenc’s Overture No. 1. The program wraps up with festive holiday selections sure to leave everyone in the audience glowing brighter than the tree lights.

​

Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and students, and free for children.

​

For more information about the concert and the orchestra, visit

​

www.civicorchestraofnewhaven.org, follow the Civic Orchestra of New Haven on Facebook, or email info@civicorchestraofnewhaven.org.

​

Celebrating more than eight decades of music-making, the Civic Orchestra of New Haven brings together over 60 professional and passionate amateur musicians, sharing the joy of live orchestral performance with the community. Tutu optional, but highly encouraged.

​

The Civic Orchestra of New Haven (CONH), led by Maestro Nadya

​

Potemkina, invites you to step into the sparkle of the season with Tutus & Tinsel on Sunday, December 14 at 4:00 p.m. at the historic Battell Chapel in downtown New Haven. This whimsical winter concert pairs elegance with cheer, from the shimmering grace of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake and the classical brilliance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 to the spirited energy of Louise Farrenc’s Overture No. 1. The program wraps up with festive holiday selections sure to leave everyone in the audience glowing brighter than the tree lights. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and students, and free for children.

​

For more information about the concert and the orchestra, visit

​

www.civicorchestraofnewhaven.org, follow the Civic Orchestra of New Haven on Facebook, or email info@civicorchestraofnewhaven.org.

​

Celebrating more than eight decades of music-making, the Civic Orchestra of New Haven brings together over 60 professional and passionate amateur musicians, sharing the joy of live orchestral performance with the community. Tutu optional, but highly encouraged.

​

On Sunday, December 14th, the George Flynn Classical Concerts series is proud to present the New York Afro Bop Alliance Big Band. Celebrating their 25th anniversary, The Latin Grammy® Award-winning New York Afro Bop Alliance Big Band (NYABABB) is an Afro-Cuban jazz ensemble featuring first call Jazz and Afro-Cuban musicians based in New York City who collectively perform with the greatest names in the business. For this concert, the band will be presenting their own unique version of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, complete with dancers!

​

NYABABB was founded and is led by drummer and Clinton resident, Joe McCarthy. The music of NYABABB has long been inspired by the great Bebop tradition, married to the rich cultural stylings of African, Afro-Caribbean, Brazilian and other multi-ethnic styles of music. The New York Afro Bop Alliance Big Band has been featured at Jazz at Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and The Smithsonian’s Jazz Appreciation Series, among many others.

​

FREE tickets must be ordered via the georgeflynnclassicalconcerts.com website.

​

Clinton residents can order on a first-come, first-served basis one month before each concert. Non-residents can order two weeks before each concert depending on availability.

​

​

For further information visit: www.georgeflynnclassicalconcerts.com

​

www.facebook.com/GeorgeFlynnClassicalConcerts

​

​

In lieu of our weekly Sunday blues/fusion lesson and dance, Elm City Swing & Blues will be having a partner Charleston lesson taught by instructors Sean Mangan and Bee Quinn. Experience with Charleston required

​

Schedule:

​

5:30-6:30pm lesson

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6:30-8pm social dance

​

Sliding scale pricing (please pay what you can)

​

Lesson: $10-20

​

Dance only: $5-10

​

Calling all artists, doodlers, and creative minds! Sketchbook Social is a laid-back, welcoming space where you can draw, sketch, and share ideas with fellow creatives—whether you work on paper, digitally, or in any other medium. Bring your sketchbook, tablet, or favorite tools and enjoy a relaxed, judgment-free atmosphere to create, experiment, and connect.

​

​

No matter your skill level, this is a space to  get inspired, swap tips, and enjoy the creative process together. Join us for some fun, fresh ideas, and great company—because art is better when shared.

​

Instructor: Aven Greene

​

You must click below and REGISTER to attend at:

​

https://www.makehaven.org/civicrm/event/info?id=640&reset=1&reset=1

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Scroll to the bottom of the page and complete the information under Register (gray box) and hit submit. You will receive an acknowledgement by email. Questions? Email info@makehaven.org

​

The Grinch is back at Dockside—bringing his signature sass, sneaky charm, and holiday mischief to our waterfront wonderland! Join us for an unforgettable evening of laughs, photos, the Grinch Movie and Grinchy interactions that are anything but boring.

​

 In Pegasus Gallery and The Niche:

​

November 14, 2025 – January 23, 2026

​

Opening Reception on Tuesday November 18, 4:30-6:30pm at Pegasus Gallery.

​

Chip Rutan photographs the lower Connecticut River Valley and shoreline.  His images depict locations he has known since childhood, and captures the momentary and transient nature of place, memory, and of home.

​

Photographs in Rutan’s “Space and Time” series were initially created with a Polaroid film camera between 2022 and 2023. The resulting images were digitally scanned, edited, and reprinted, while retaining the distinctly imperfect visual qualities of the Polaroid media.  His human subjects were photographed from afar, so their likeness is impossible to discern, yet each composition contains a nostalgic and psychologically charged atmosphere of familiarity. Subjects walk along the beach, lounge, swim, and in many works, they appear to blur into the haze of dominant horizon lines. Rutan describes his photographs best as “ephemeral and dreamlike… portal(s) to a simpler time and place.” 

​

Rutan lives in Old Saybrook, and has exhibited his photographs regionally and nationally. He holds an MFA in Visual Art from Vermont College of Fine Arts, an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (at Hartford), and a BA in Mathematics from the University of New Haven. See more of Rutan’s work on his website at: https://www.chiprutan.com

​

Pegasus Gallery is located within the library on the first floor of Chapman Hall.

​

Hours: Monday-Thursday: 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday: 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. when classes are in session. Winter break hours are Mondays-Fridays 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

​

The Niche is in Founders Hall across from the Registrar’s Office, Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fridays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

​

The Clinton Art Society (CAS) is pleased to present the Holiday Members Exhibition on view from November 28, 2025 through January 15, 2026. The festive opening reception is Thursday, December 4 from 4:30pm to 6:00pm and is free and open to the public. The exhibition offers inspiring art ready for holiday gift giving.

​

​

“The show is an uplifting and art-filled way to come together to celebrate the holiday season,” said Robin Hammeal-Urban, CAS President.

​

​

The exhibit is at the Andrews Memorial Town Hall, 54 E. Main Street in Clinton, CT and is open during regular Town Hall hours.

​

​

CAS is a vibrant arts community with members from across the state and beyond working in all fine art media. The organization sponsors exhibits, educational programs, and critique sessions. New members are always welcome. For more information, contact CAS at casclinton@gmail.com or visit clintonartsocietyct.org.

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Monday through Wednesday, 9am to 4pm

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 Thursday, 9am to 7pm

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 Friday, 9am to 12pm

​

 Closed Saturday and Sunday

​

​

​

During November 24, 2025– February 4, 2026, the NewAlliance Foundation Art Gallery at CT State Community College, Gateway Campus is pleased to present the work of Hafsa Nouman and Sarah Phyllis Smith in their two-person exhibition “You Will Be the Mirror”.

​

This exhibition includes luminous abstract paintings by Hafsa Nouman, and delicate narrative photographs from Sarah Phyllis Smith. Nouman’s abstract fields are mirrored in Smith’s conceptual photographs and both artists deconstruct space, context, and interpretation with their unique, thought provoking art practices.

​

Hafsa’s practice focuses on the deconstruction of colonial hierarchies embedded in patriarchal spaces- both monumental and domestic. Her critical focus is rooted in the relationship between ‘object’ and ‘desire’ which often results in visual excavations of architectural thresholds, such as doors, walls, and wrought iron patterns. Through those thresholds, Nouman creates a spatial logic that brings attention to the painted object’s histories, and material realities in a way that they can be re-embodied in the gallery space.

​

Sarah’s photography follows another deconstruction through abstraction and manipulation of the images. Though her work is deeply personal, themes of loss, longing, and desire permeate throughout her images, and act as both voyeuristic insight and decontextualization. In this examination of her personal experiences the viewer is invited into her both stark and tender space, where deep and slow processing occurs. When we see figures in her work, they are sometimes performative, and sometimes autobiographical. These two directions bring Sarah’s images into their own world. They come from a realistic documentation, but through her perception we arrive at an open-ended meditative place of self-discovery.

​

Please join us for a reception on Thursday, December 4, 5:00-7:00pm with light refreshments and food. The NewAlliance Foundation Art Gallery at CT State Community College, Gateway is open Monday -Friday 9:00am-9:00pm.

​

Artist Talk:11:00am-12:00pm in the Gallery.

​

New and experienced students will focus on making pottery on the wheel.

​

Start by using methods of wedging, centering, hand and finger positioning for raising a vessel, and positioning one’s body for dealing with a mass of clay on the wheel. Demonstrations will cover the importance of trimming techniques and various forming processes.

​

Wear clothes that can get dirty.

​

The Guilford Art Center’s annual Holiday Expo returns November 14, 2025 – January 11, 2026, offering an extraordinary selection of handcrafted gifts from hundreds of local and regional artists and makers.

​

For the season, the GAC Shop doubles in size, filling both the shop and the gallery space with one-of-a-kind treasures: jewelry, home goods, clothing, accessories, ornaments, specialty foods, and more. Each piece is handmade with care, making the gift as unique as the person receiving it.

​

 New this year, the Holiday Expo will also feature a special section of work by members of the Lyme Artisans Guild , known for their exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to preserving traditional techniques. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase their beautiful, locally made creations alongside other Holiday Expo artists. The Guild’s mission closely aligns with GAC’s, making for an exciting seasonal partnership.

​

 “The Holiday Expo is a celebration of creativity and community,” says Maureen Belden, Executive Director of Guilford Art Center. “When you shop here, you’re not just finding a beautiful, handmade gift—you’re supporting local artists, investing in their livelihoods, and helping to sustain the arts in our region. Every purchase makes a difference.”

​

 Lyme Artisans Guild President Carol Stanland adds, “Handcrafts are very much about community and making connections with people in a community, making any acquisition more meaningful than it would otherwise be. We at LAG very much enjoy sharing our process as well as our products. Knowledge about process gives our products depth.”

​

 New items arrive throughout the season, so there’s always something fresh to discover. Personal shoppers are available to help with selections, and businesses can arrange custom gift packages for employees.

​

 Events:

​

• November 14: Opening Reception, 5–7pm
• November 15: Egyptian Coil Chaining Demo (for wire jewelry) with Michelle Pearson
• November 22: Gel Printing on Paper Demo with Barbara Eaglesham
• December 13: Color and Pattern Matching in Fabric Design Demo with Carol Stanland

​

 Proceeds benefit the artists and fund Guilford Art Center’s educational and community programs.

​

Holiday Expo Hours:

​

November 14, 2025 – January 11, 2026

​

Mon–Sat, 10am–5pm | Sun, 12–5pm

​

  Location: Guilford Art Center, 411 Church Street, Guilford, CT

​

More information: www.guilfordartcenter.org | facebook.com/guilfordartcenter

​

Phone: 203-453-5947

​

The Guilford Art Center’s annual Holiday Expo returns November 14, 2025 – January 11, 2026, offering an extraordinary selection of handcrafted gifts from hundreds of independent artists and makers. The community is invited to the free Opening Reception event on Friday, Nov 14 from 5-7pm.

​

For the season, the GAC Shop doubles in size, filling both the shop and the gallery space with one-of-a-kind treasures: jewelry, home goods, clothing, accessories, ornaments, specialty foods, and more. Each piece is handmade with care, making the gift as unique as the person receiving it.

​

New this year, the Holiday Expo will also feature a special section of work by members of the Lyme Artisans Guild , known for their exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to preserving traditional techniques. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase their beautiful, locally made creations alongside other Holiday Expo artists. The Guild’s mission closely aligns with GAC’s, making for an exciting seasonal partnership.

​

​

“The Holiday Expo is a celebration of creativity and community,” says Maureen Belden, Executive Director of Guilford Art Center. “When you shop here, you’re not just finding a beautiful, handmade gift—you’re supporting local artists, investing in their livelihoods, and helping to sustain the arts in our region. Every purchase makes a difference.”

​

​

Lyme Artisans Guild President Carol Stanland adds, “Handcrafts are very much about community and making connections with people in a community, making any acquisition more meaningful than it would otherwise be. We at LAG very much enjoy sharing our process as well as our products. Knowledge about process gives our products depth.”

​

​

New items arrive throughout the season, so there’s always something fresh to discover. Personal shoppers are available to help with selections, and businesses can arrange custom gift packages for employees.

​

Events:

​

• November 14: Opening Reception, 5–7pm
• November 15: Egyptian Coil Chaining Demo (for wire jewelry) with Michelle Pearson
• November 22: Gel Printing on Paper Demo with Barbara Eaglesham
• December 13: Color and Pattern Matching in Fabric Design Demo with Carol Stanland

​

Proceeds benefit the artists and fund Guilford Art Center’s educational and community programs.

​

Holiday Expo Hours:

​

November 14, 2025 – January 11, 2026

​

Mon–Sat, 10am–5pm | Sun, 12–5pm

​

Location: Guilford Art Center, 411 Church Street, Guilford, CT

​

More information: www.guilfordartcenter.org | facebook.com/guilfordartcenter

​

Phone: 203-453-5947

​

​

 🎉 Support Local This Holiday Season! 🎁✨

​

Shop local in the Whitney-Audubon District from November 28 to December 24 and enjoy a sweet treat with your purchase!

​

🛍️ Spend $25 or more at participating retailers and present your same-day paper receipt to indulge in one of these delightful offers: • FREE Cupcake from Katalina’s Bakery (74 Whitney Avenue) 🧁 • OR FREE Hot Cocoa from Willoughby’s Coffee & Tea (258 Church Street) ☕

​

Explore unique finds at Walker-Loden with antiques, jewelry, and festive gifts, or visit Kathadin Furniture for stunning custom rugs and eclectic treasures. Looking for something sparkling? Gilden’s Jewelers has an exquisite selection of jewelry just for you! Or take a festive art class at The Giggling Pig.

​

👉 Check out the Official Rules & Regulations and participating merchants in the Whitney-Audubon Retail & Arts District  or https://theshopsatyale.com/holidaysonwhitney/

​

Happy Holidays and happy shopping local! ❤️

​

 🎉 Support Local This Holiday Season! 🎁✨

​

Shop local in the Whitney-Audubon District from November 28 to December 24 and enjoy a sweet treat with your purchase!

​

🛍️ Spend $25 or more at participating retailers and present your same-day paper receipt to indulge in one of these delightful offers: • FREE Cupcake from Katalina’s Bakery (74 Whitney Avenue) 🧁 • OR FREE Hot Cocoa from Willoughby’s Coffee & Tea (258 Church Street) ☕

​

Explore unique finds at Walker-Loden with antiques, jewelry, and festive gifts, or visit Kathadin Furniture for stunning custom rugs and eclectic treasures. Looking for something sparkling? Gilden’s Jewelers has an exquisite selection of jewelry just for you! Or take a festive art class at The Giggling Pig.

​

👉 Check out the Official Rules & Regulations and participating merchants in the Whitney-Audubon Retail & Arts District  or https://theshopsatyale.com/holidaysonwhitney/

​

Happy Holidays and happy shopping local! ❤️

​

 🎉 Indulge in Sweet Treats This Holiday Season! ☕🍪✨

​

From November 28 to December 24, enjoy FREE Gourmet Hot Cocoa or a Cookie with your purchase at The Shops at Yale!

​

🛍️ Spend $50 or more at participating retailers and present your same-day paper or digital receipt to delight in one of these festive treats: • FREE Gourmet Hot Cocoa from Claire’s Corner Copia (1000 Chapel Street) ☕ • OR a FREE Cookie from Cookie39 (39 Broadway) 🍪

​

Shop local and discover unique gifts while fueling your holiday spirit!

​

👉 Check out the official rules & regulations and participating merchants at The Shops at Yale Holiday

​

or https://theshopsatyale.com/holiday/

​

Happy Holidays and happy shopping! 🎁❤️

​

A mixed media show featuring artwork by Susan Stickney

​

 🎉 Holiday Shopping Made Easy! 🚗✨

​

Enjoy FREE 2-HOUR PARKING at The Shops at Yale from November 28 to December 24!

​

🛍️ Simply make a same-day purchase of $50 or more at any retailer or restaurant, and present your paper or digital receipt to the parking lot attendant when exiting.

​

Participating locations include:

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• 56 Broadway

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• 255 Crown Street

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Take advantage of this festive offer and shop local while enjoying the convenience of complimentary parking!

​

👉 Don’t miss out on this holiday perk!

​

 Happy Holidays and happy shopping! 🎁❤️

​

https://theshopsatyale.com/holiday/

​

 The Art of Dreaming - Spectrum Art Gallery Holiday Exhibit Opens November 21

​

With the holidays approaching, Spectrum Art Gallery presents The Art of Dreaming. This season find imagination, memory, and hope especially alive as this exhibit explores the boundless world of dreams—where fantasy, romance, and the surreal converge. Discover fine art and photography by established and emerging artists, alongside the Artisans Store filled to the brim with holiday items and seasonal gifts such as pottery, glass, fiber, jewelry, home décor, paper art, and handmade ornaments displayed on Spectrum’s two 6-foot holiday trees.  Start the holidays right at an Open Gallery Reception on Friday, November 21 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Enjoy fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments that evening and all throughout the Open House Weekend, Saturday, November 22 (1 to 6pm), and Sunday, November 23 (1-5pm). The Art of Dreaming runs through January 10, 2026. Spectrum Gallery, voted Best Gallery and Best Jewelry Store on the Shoreline, is located at 61 Main St., Centerbrook, CT. Regular Gallery Hours are Wed-Sat (12-6pm) and Sun (12-5pm). Between December 6 - 24, Gallery is open Mon-Sat.  12-6pm; Suns. 12-5pm and on Dec 24, 11am-2pm. For more information about exhibits and classes, workshops, and summer camps for adults, teens, and children, call (860) 767-0742 and visit spectrumartgallery.org. Shop online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the US. Follow Spectrum social media at facebook.com/spectrumartgallery, instagram.com/spectrumartgallery, x.com/spectrum_ct, and youtube.com/@spectrumgallery6211

​

​

 The Art of Dreaming - Spectrum Art Gallery Holiday Exhibit Opens November 21

​

With the holidays approaching, Spectrum Art Gallery presents The Art of Dreaming. This season find imagination, memory, and hope especially alive as this exhibit explores the boundless world of dreams—where fantasy, romance, and the surreal converge. Discover fine art and photography by established and emerging artists, alongside the Artisans Store filled to the brim with holiday items and seasonal gifts such as pottery, glass, fiber, jewelry, home décor, paper art, and handmade ornaments displayed on Spectrum’s two 6-foot holiday trees.  Start the holidays right at an Open Gallery Reception on Friday, November 21 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Enjoy fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments that evening and all throughout the Open House Weekend, Saturday, November 22 (1 to 6pm), and Sunday, November 23 (1-5pm). The Art of Dreaming runs through January 10, 2026. Spectrum Gallery, voted Best Gallery and Best Jewelry Store on the Shoreline, is located at 61 Main St., Centerbrook, CT. Regular Gallery Hours are Wed-Sat (12-6pm) and Sun (12-5pm). Between December 6 - 24, Gallery is open Mon-Sat.  12-6pm; Suns. 12-5pm and on Dec 24, 11am-2pm. For more information about exhibits and classes, workshops, and summer camps for adults, teens, and children, call (860) 767-0742 and visit spectrumartgallery.org. Shop online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the US. Follow Spectrum social media at facebook.com/spectrumartgallery, instagram.com/spectrumartgallery, x.com/spectrum_ct, and youtube.com/@spectrumgallery6211

​

​

 The Art of Dreaming - Spectrum Art Gallery Holiday Exhibit Opens November 21

​

With the holidays approaching, Spectrum Art Gallery presents The Art of Dreaming. This season find imagination, memory, and hope especially alive as this exhibit explores the boundless world of dreams—where fantasy, romance, and the surreal converge. Discover fine art and photography by established and emerging artists, alongside the Artisans Store filled to the brim with holiday items and seasonal gifts such as pottery, glass, fiber, jewelry, home décor, paper art, and handmade ornaments displayed on Spectrum’s two 6-foot holiday trees.  Start the holidays right at an Open Gallery Reception on Friday, November 21 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Enjoy fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments that evening and all throughout the Open House Weekend, Saturday, November 22 (1 to 6pm), and Sunday, November 23 (1-5pm). The Art of Dreaming runs through January 10, 2026. Spectrum Gallery, voted Best Gallery and Best Jewelry Store on the Shoreline, is located at 61 Main St., Centerbrook, CT. Regular Gallery Hours are Wed-Sat (12-6pm) and Sun (12-5pm). Between December 6 - 24, Gallery is open Mon-Sat.  12-6pm; Suns. 12-5pm and on Dec 24, 11am-2pm. For more information about exhibits and classes, workshops, and summer camps for adults, teens, and children, call (860) 767-0742 and visit spectrumartgallery.org. Shop online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the US. Follow Spectrum social media at facebook.com/spectrumartgallery, instagram.com/spectrumartgallery, x.com/spectrum_ct, and youtube.com/@spectrumgallery6211

​

​

 The Art of Dreaming - Spectrum Art Gallery Holiday Exhibit Opens November 21

​

With the holidays approaching, Spectrum Art Gallery presents The Art of Dreaming. This season find imagination, memory, and hope especially alive as this exhibit explores the boundless world of dreams—where fantasy, romance, and the surreal converge. Discover fine art and photography by established and emerging artists, alongside the Artisans Store filled to the brim with holiday items and seasonal gifts such as pottery, glass, fiber, jewelry, home décor, paper art, and handmade ornaments displayed on Spectrum’s two 6-foot holiday trees.  Start the holidays right at an Open Gallery Reception on Friday, November 21 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Enjoy fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments that evening and all throughout the Open House Weekend, Saturday, November 22 (1 to 6pm), and Sunday, November 23 (1-5pm). The Art of Dreaming runs through January 10, 2026. Spectrum Gallery, voted Best Gallery and Best Jewelry Store on the Shoreline, is located at 61 Main St., Centerbrook, CT. Regular Gallery Hours are Wed-Sat (12-6pm) and Sun (12-5pm). Between December 6 - 24, Gallery is open Mon-Sat.  12-6pm; Suns. 12-5pm and on Dec 24, 11am-2pm. For more information about exhibits and classes, workshops, and summer camps for adults, teens, and children, call (860) 767-0742 and visit spectrumartgallery.org. Shop online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the US. Follow Spectrum social media at facebook.com/spectrumartgallery, instagram.com/spectrumartgallery, x.com/spectrum_ct, and youtube.com/@spectrumgallery6211

​

​

 The Art of Dreaming - Spectrum Art Gallery Holiday Exhibit Opens November 21

​

With the holidays approaching, Spectrum Art Gallery presents The Art of Dreaming. This season find imagination, memory, and hope especially alive as this exhibit explores the boundless world of dreams—where fantasy, romance, and the surreal converge. Discover fine art and photography by established and emerging artists, alongside the Artisans Store filled to the brim with holiday items and seasonal gifts such as pottery, glass, fiber, jewelry, home décor, paper art, and handmade ornaments displayed on Spectrum’s two 6-foot holiday trees.  Start the holidays right at an Open Gallery Reception on Friday, November 21 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Enjoy fine art, crafts, wine, and refreshments that evening and all throughout the Open House Weekend, Saturday, November 22 (1 to 6pm), and Sunday, November 23 (1-5pm). The Art of Dreaming runs through January 10, 2026. Spectrum Gallery, voted Best Gallery and Best Jewelry Store on the Shoreline, is located at 61 Main St., Centerbrook, CT. Regular Gallery Hours are Wed-Sat (12-6pm) and Sun (12-5pm). Between December 6 - 24, Gallery is open Mon-Sat.  12-6pm; Suns. 12-5pm and on Dec 24, 11am-2pm. For more information about exhibits and classes, workshops, and summer camps for adults, teens, and children, call (860) 767-0742 and visit spectrumartgallery.org. Shop online at SpectrumAnytime.com with shipping available throughout the US. Follow Spectrum social media at facebook.com/spectrumartgallery, instagram.com/spectrumartgallery, x.com/spectrum_ct, and youtube.com/@spectrumgallery6211

​

​

Auditions are December 15 and 18 in Middletown for actors and movers ages 12 - 14 looking for an exciting and dynamic performance experience this winter.

​

Oddfellows Playhouse Junior Repertory Company 2026  announces auditions for Charlotte’s Web , directed by Dan Schmidt.

​

Based on E.B White’s 1952 young adult novel, the production will use the dramatic adaptation by Joseph Robinette. A heartwarming story about friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life, Charlotte's Web centers around a pig named Wilbur and his unlikely friendship with a kind, wise spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte uses her web-weaving skills to write messages in the barn’s rafters, convincing the world that Wilbur is “Terrific” and “Some Pig,” and saving his life. As she helps Wilbur find a new home and future, Charlotte must also face her own mortality. Charlotte’s Web is a tale of true compassion, sacrifice, and the beauty of small acts of kindness.

​

Audition dates are December 15 and 18, 4:30 - 6:30 pm at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown.

​

Auditions are open to anyone ages 12 - 14.

​

Anyone wishing to audition should:

​

*Register for one of the two evenings at www.oddfellows.org

​

*Arrive on time, dress to move and be prepared to stay the entire 90 minutes.

​

*Everyone who auditions and commits to the rehearsal and production schedule will be cast!

​

*There is no cost to audition.

​

Rehearsals begin January 5 and will be Mondays and Thursdays, 4:30 - 6:20 pm. There is a Tech Rehearsal on March 7, and daily rehearsals 4 - 8 pm March 9 - 11. 

​

Performance dates are March 12 - 14.

​

Tuition for Junior Rep is $350. Financial aid is available for all who need it. 

​

Email info@oddfellows.org to register for one of the two auditions, or register directly at www.oddfellows.org. Call (860) 347-6143 for more information.

​

The comforting warmth one feels on entering Claire’s Corner Copia, the iconic vegetarian eatery on the corner of Chapel and College, will be in abundance in the New Haven Museum ballroom when legendary restauranter Claire Criscuolo is feted for 50 years of good will and great food on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 6 p.m., during “Health, Happiness, Purpose and Peace: Celebrating Claire's," immediately following the Annual Meeting of the New Haven Museum Board of Directors at 5:30 p.m. A reception will follow. Register here. The free event will also stream on FB Live.

​

In conversation with Paul Bass, founding editor of the New Haven Independent, Criscuolo will share memories, heartfelt stories, and some favorite recipes from her latest book, “50 Vegetarian Recipes from 50 Years at Claire’s Corner Copia.” In what she terms as “this crazy experiment,” Criscuolo, a registered nurse, and her late husband, Frank, a musician, opened Claire’s Corner Copia in 1975 simply wanting to bring real, clean food to New Haveners while blending Italian, Mexican, Middle Eastern, and Greek influences. “We believed that if we can eat together, and share our stories, we’ll realize that really, we all want the same things: good health, happiness, purpose, and peace.”  

​

Clearly, leading with the heart has been a recipe for success for Criscuolo. Heralded as “one of the 10 best heart-healthy restaurants in America” by MSNBC, Claire’s has received accolades from national press and fans alike, noting the restaurant’s ability to pivot to meet the needs of the times, and the community, while dishing up delicious healthy food. 

​

This class is for beginners eager to learn all aspects of pottery, as well as returnees who wish to hone their skills. Although the primary focus is on wheel throwing, we will also explore hand-building and ways to combine the two disciplines. Time will additionally be spent on the importance of trimming and glazing.

​

Wear clothes that can get dirty.

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Pottery tool kits are available for sale in the studio for $27 and firing fees are $3.50/pound. Payable by credit card, cash, or check.

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Includes one 3-hour weekly practice session during monitored practice hours on a first-come, first-served basis and you are encouraged to take advantage of this.

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Don’t be intimidated any longer—come learn to paint. This class will unfold the mysteries of painting by introducing students to the basics: selecting materials, setting up a palette, handling paint, and composing a picture. The class will emphasize learning to see what you wish to paint with the goal of rendering form clearly in terms of color and design. Come to the first class ready to paint.

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CAW does not supply paint, brushes, or canvas. Please see the list below for what students need to bring.

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 Where: kamrDANCE Studio LLC, Corner of Wadsworth Street and Mill Rock Road, Hamden, CT, 06517

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White garage with fence across from tennis courts/Mill Rock Park!

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Drop-in Cost: $25 suggested, $10-25 (sliding scale/pay what you can!)

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Zelle (preferred), Venmo, cash, and checks written out to kamrDANCE Studio LLC accepted

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SEPTEMBER-DECEMBER 2025 SCHEDULE: Sept 4th - Dec 18th

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MONDAYS

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Intermediate 7-8:15 PM ET (w/Zoom option)

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No class: 10/20 (makeup: 10/23)

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THURSDAYS

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Adv beginner/mixed level 5:30-6:45 PM ET (w/Zoom option)

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No class: 9/11 (makeup: 9/15), 10/16 (makeup: 10/13), 11/6 (makeup: 11/10), 11/27 (makeup: 11/24)

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”Makeup” means that whenever there is no Intermediate on a Monday, it will be offered instead on the indicated Thursday. Whenever there is no Adv Beginner on a Thursday, it will instead be offered on the indicated Monday.

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THURSDAYS

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All levels improv jam 6:50-7:20 PM ET (specific dates)

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Dates offered: 9/4, 9/18, 9/25, 10/2, 10/9, 10/30, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11, 12/18

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*If you take class and then stay for the jam, there is no extra cost. If you come just for the jam, it is a suggested donation of $5-10.

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NEW!: The last Thursday class of each month will specifically focus on improvisation skills for the entire class!

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Dates: 9/25, 10/30, 11/20, 12/18

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No experience or shoes necessary for beginner! Come work on technique, musicality, choreography, and improvisation in a safe and fun environment!

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Alexis is also available for private or small group lessons. If you are interested, please email kamrdanceco@gmail.com

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Legendary balladeer Engelbert Humperdinck brings his timeless voice to the Shubert for a special holiday performance where romance and nostalgia meet beloved seasonal classics. Experience an unforgettable evening where cherished memories meet the magic of the season.

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Back by popular demand.

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Two Dates: December 9 and December 16 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.

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Take some time for you and your friends and join us to decorate GIANT house-made Gingerbread Cookies while sipping wine. (This is an Adult Event 21+)

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Each Attendee will receive four 6″ GIANT Gingerbread Cookies to decorate and take home. Enjoy sipping wines while you decorate your cookies.

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Each event will include a 15 minute pre-decorating mini workshop with our Pastry Chef Lily.

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Ticket includes 1 glass of wine.

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$50 per person

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 In Pegasus Gallery and The Niche:

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November 14, 2025 – January 23, 2026

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Opening Reception on Tuesday November 18, 4:30-6:30pm at Pegasus Gallery.

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Chip Rutan photographs the lower Connecticut River Valley and shoreline.  His images depict locations he has known since childhood, and captures the momentary and transient nature of place, memory, and of home.

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Photographs in Rutan’s “Space and Time” series were initially created with a Polaroid film camera between 2022 and 2023. The resulting images were digitally scanned, edited, and reprinted, while retaining the distinctly imperfect visual qualities of the Polaroid media.  His human subjects were photographed from afar, so their likeness is impossible to discern, yet each composition contains a nostalgic and psychologically charged atmosphere of familiarity. Subjects walk along the beach, lounge, swim, and in many works, they appear to blur into the haze of dominant horizon lines. Rutan describes his photographs best as “ephemeral and dreamlike… portal(s) to a simpler time and place.” 

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Rutan lives in Old Saybrook, and has exhibited his photographs regionally and nationally. He holds an MFA in Visual Art from Vermont College of Fine Arts, an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (at Hartford), and a BA in Mathematics from the University of New Haven. See more of Rutan’s work on his website at: https://www.chiprutan.com

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Pegasus Gallery is located within the library on the first floor of Chapman Hall.

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Hours: Monday-Thursday: 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday: 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. when classes are in session. Winter break hours are Mondays-Fridays 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

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The Niche is in Founders Hall across from the Registrar’s Office, Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fridays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

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