WINTER Wonderlands
Rustic to romantic, or friends and family fun, road trips can be what you make them by Susan Shultz
The holiday season is a good time of year to take time off—the schedule gets slower, the phone gets quieter and the kids are on break.
THE WOODSTOCK INN & RESORT
Woodstock, Vermont
As the holiday season approaches, many hope to take the time to take a breath and relax. And where better to do it than The Woodstock Inn & Resort. Whether you take time to indulge in specialty winter dishes whipped up by the Resort’s culinary masters, or enjoy picturesque winter sports, you will return home with your soul satiated. Set against Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, the Woodstock Inn & Resort is a year-round destination wrapped in luxury and history. Each of its 142 uniquely-decorated rooms and suites embrace Vermont’s signature style.
The town of Woodstock is delightfully picturesque. Plan your visit around the Wassail Weekend Dec. 13 to 15 at Billings
Farm. Enjoy the festive holiday tree and decorations that fill the Visitor Center and historic barn. Discover the charm of Victorian Christmas as you explore our authentically decorated farmhouse parlor.
CONTINUE Winter Wonderlands ON PAGE 4
The town of Woodstock is delightfully picturesque and the perfect winter getaway. Photo contributed by The Woodstock Inn & Resort.
MERRY & bright
by Alyssa Seidman
N
othing says “season’s greetings” like seeing everyone’s houses shining bright with holiday lights. But if your block is looking a little dim this year, Connecticut has plenty of places where you can get your fix of light-filled festivities.
FANTASY OF LIGHTS
For the past 30 years, Fantasy of Lights has instilled the spirit of the season within thousands of local families. Presented by Goodwill of Southern New England, this treasured holiday tradition takes visitors on a trip through a dazzling nighttime display literally.
As you drive around Lighthouse Point Park, you’ll encounter twinkling light tunnels, waving snowmen, an assortment of toys perhaps left by Santa himself a spinning carousel, and even some prehistoric pals
Additionally, your ticket purchase will benefit Goodwill’s mission of supporting individuals of all abilities through person-centered employment, training, and services. Fantasy of Lights opens Friday, Nov. 22, and runs through Tuesday, Dec. 31. Tickets are on sale now.
Lighthouse Point Park is located at 2 Lighthouse Road in New Haven. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit WWW.GOODWILLSNE.ORG/FANTASYOFLIGHTS
GLOW HARTFORD
Laugh, stroll, and play under the twinkle of a million lights as Glow Hartford takes over the Connecticut Convention Center. Visitors will be dazzled by this dreamy holiday spectacle, which includes interactive light gardens and illuminated structures.
The event also offers seasonal food and drinks, family-friendly activities, a festive holiday market, and daily live entertainment. Glow Hartford opens Tuesday, Nov. 19, and runs through Sunday, Dec. 29. Tickets are on sale now.
The Connecticut Convention Center is located at 100 Columbus Blvd. in Hartford. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit WWW.HARTFORD.GLOWGARDENS.COM
This year, visitors can embark on a magical journey “Around the World.” Take an enchanting sleigh ride above luminous landscapes like the Eiffel Tower, the Taj Mahal, and the London Bridge as you help Santa spread Christmas cheer to every corner of the globe.
Fantasy of Lights has become a holiday tradition for thousands of families throughout Connecticut Photo contributed by Goodwill of Southern New England.
For the past 30 years, Fantasy of Lights, a dazzling nighttime event, has wowed kids and kids at heart. Photo contributed by Goodwill of Southern New England.
LANTERN LIGHT VILLAGE
Lantern Lights has been a treasured tradition at Mystic Seaport Museum for the past 45 years. In 2019 it was reimagined as the Lantern Light Village, which invites visitors to celebrate holidays from the 19th and 21st centuries.
During the event the grounds are decorated with wintertime garlands and wreaths, twinkling lights, and, of course, lanterns. At the center of it all is a self-guided theatrical experience complete with a horse and carriage ride that will bring holiday stories from the past to life.
The event will also include festive light displays live music by local choirs, fireside gatherings, a visit from St. Nicholas, crafts, games, and more. It takes place Dec. 6, 7, 13 14, 20, 21 and 22 from 5-8 p.m. Tickets are on sale now.
The Museum is located at 75 Greenmanville Ave. in Mystic. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit WWW.MYSTICSEAPORT.ORG/LANTERNLIGHT-VILLAGE-2024
Lantern Lights has been a treasured tradition at Mystic
HOLIDAY STROLL
The Holiday Stroll invites visitors to take a walk through a festive world of lights. Situated just steps from downtown Stamford, the sights and sounds of this winter wonderland will leave you and your family with memories to last a lifetime.
Experience Mill River Park like you’ve never seen it before. As you enter through the candy cane arches and stroll further into the grounds, you’ll find larger-than-life 3D ornaments, a towering gingerbread house giant spangled stars, and a 30-foot interactive Christmas tree.
The stroll will also feature food vendors and a pop-up holiday bar. Make the most of your enchanted evening by visiting the Cohen Skating Center next door which opens for the season in mid-November.
Mill River Park is located at 1010 Washington Blvd. in Stamford. For more information, visit WWW THEHOLIDAYSTROLL.COM
NIGHT OF LIGHTS
If you’re a Swiftie like this author, Christmas at Fairview Tree Farm in Shelton can’t be missed. Its annual Night of Lights is back for another year, which takes visitors on a magical and merry hayride through the fields.
The decorated trees will shine bright though the night thanks to strings and strings of sparkling lights.
A series of holiday scenes will also greet you on your journey, and afterwards you can enjoy everything else the farm has to offer.
Sit by the bonfire as you sip on tasty treats, or meet and greet with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and even the Grinch! Night of Lights ticketholders can also select and purchase a perfect, pre-cut Christmas tree during the farm’s evening hours (5-8:30 p.m.).
Fairview Tree Farm is located at 2 Sawmill City Road in Shelton. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit WWW.FAIRVIEWTREEFARM.COM
Seaport Museum for the past 45 years. Photo by Mystic Seaport Museum.
Warm Wassail punch, made from a mulled blend of citrus juice and spices, will be available for purchase no admission required.
On the farm, you can meet our Jersey cows draft horses chickens, sheep, and goats in the barns Select days will feature horse-drawn sleigh rides through the picturesque pastures, weather permitting.
Once you’ve turned in your skis or enjoyed your delectable cuisine, indulge yourself in another way at the award-winning spa—an experience not to be missed
A visit to The Woodstock Inn & Resort is a memorable feast for the senses and an incomparable way to kick off your 2024 Visit WWW.WOODSTOCKINN.COM to plan your trip today.
MOUNT WASHINGTON
New Hampshire
Mount Washington State Park, a 60.3-acre parcel perched on the summit of the Northeast’s highest peak, is surrounded by the extensive 750,000-acre White Mountain National Forest. On a clear day, views from the 6,288-foot summit extend beyond New Hampshire as far as 130 miles
to Vermont New York, Massachusetts, Maine, Quebec, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Nearby at the Omni Hotel, one can literally enjoy the beauty of a winter wonderland. While the area offers the traditional skiing and snowboarding visitors can also opt for a different viewpoint.
Choose a cozy horse drawn carriage ride, snowshoeing, an elegant gondola ride over the scenic slopes, or even a canopy zip line.
The Omni also offers luxurious accommodations, dining and a well-appointed spa.
There are a variety of fun things to do in the area of Mount Washington, including taking a ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway In less than an hour, you’ll climb through three climate zones to arrive at the top of New England!
Following your trip up the mountain, the train will lay over for about an hour for visits to explore the visitor center and rooftop observation deck. There is also an interactive weather center, a cafeteria, two gift shops, and the chance to mail your friends and family a unique post card from the summit post office.
For more info, visit WWW.OMNIHOTELS.COM/HOTELS/ BRETTON-WOODS-MOUNT-WASHINGTON
frosty
ros y f
Winter in New England offers so many ways to celebrate
by Susan Shultz
O
ne of the best parts of living in New England is that we get to enjoy all four seasons in their maximum glory, and winter is no exception While some may prefer to keep warm, there is no shortage of ways to celebrate the frosty air this winter.
HOLIDAY WISH EXPRESS Stamford
This winter, experience an all-new train ride to the North Pole with new characters, stunning themed displays, and incredible photo ops for the whole family plus all of your favorite light displays from the Holiday Stroll
The Holiday Wish Express 2024 Season will take place over select dates between Nov. 23 – Dec 24 at the Stamford Town Center. Tickets are on sale now. For more information, visit: WWW THEHOLIDAYWISH.COM
FESTIVALS OF TREES & TRADITIONS
Wadsworth Atheneum, Harford
The Festivals of Trees & Traditions returns for its 50th year to the Wadsworth Atheneum. This year’s theme will be the golden disco, apropos of the first year it was celebrated in 1974
Each year, community members, artists, and volunteers from local organizations donate trees and holiday décor, turning the galleries into a festive winter wonderland. Donated items are for sale and profits support the museum’s special programs and operating expenses. Bring home the holiday cheer or donate your purchase to a local charity The event runs Dec. 5 through Dec. 15
For more information visit WWW THEWADSWORTH.ORG/FESTIVALOFTREES
RIDGEFIELD
HOLIDAY STROLL Ridgefield
The Ridgefield Annual Holiday Stroll, held Dec. 6 and 7, transforms the town’s picturesque Main Street into a classic holiday wonderland. The event creates a oneof-a-kind festive experience.
Visitors can enjoy enchanting horse-drawn carriages to joyful carolers, live holiday music, and whimsical toy soldiers this event captures the magic of the season The town offers extended shopping hours at local boutiques and festive dining experiences, drawing families and holiday shoppers from near and far to experience the charm of Ridgefield.
SLEIGH RIDES
Allegra Farm, Haddam
There is nothing so enchanting as the sound of sleigh bells and the whisper of runners on fresh snow. Have a “Courrier and Ives” experience as you bundle up in your lap robes and hand muffs, and let the sleigh take you from this bustling century to a more tranquil time. Bring your own refreshments to warm your body and spirit
Visit WWW.ALLEGRAFARM.COM to arrange your experience.
CONNECTICUT TROLLEY MUSEUM WINTERFEST & TUNNEL OF LIGHTS
East Windsor
Winterfest 2024 and the dazzling “Tunnel of Lights” return to the Connecticut Trolley Museum starting at the end of November.
Experience the magic every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night through Dec. 22, with extended hours from Dec. 26 to Dec. 30 during school vacation.
This family-friendly holiday tradition runs from 5 to 9 p.m. and offers visitors over 10,000 lights illuminating both the museum’s interior and exterior.
Attendees can hop aboard one of the museum’s cozy, closed trolley cars and ride through the enchanting “Tunnel of Lights.” Those eager to brave the chill can enjoy a more immersive experience
on one of the open-air trolleys entirely adorned with holiday lights for an unforgettable view of the tunnel.
Bundle up, bring blankets, and enjoy the crisp air as you take in the festive atmosphere.
Inside, the Visitor Center transforms into a Winter Wonderland, featuring elaborate model train layouts, twinkling lights, and holiday decorations that will captivate visitors of all ages.
Visit WWW.CT-TROLLEY.ORG for more information.
POWDER RIDGE PARK
Middlefield
Powder Ridge Park offers a winter festival every weekend through Christmas. It features snow tubing a children’s snow play area, a Winter village with craft vendors, food trucks, Santa, an ice bar, snow play for the young ones, and much more.
Visit WWW.POWDERRIDGEPARK.COM for more information.
(Pictured above) The Holiday Wish Express 2024 Season will take place over select dates between Nov. 23 – Dec. 24 at the Stamford Town Center. Photo contributed by Hey Stamford. (Pictured below) Lake Compounce Holiday Events: Running from Nov. 29 through Dec. 29 Lake Compounce amusement park transforms into a winter wonderland. Photo contributed by Lake Compounce.
LAKE COMPOUNCE HOLIDAY LIGHTS
Bristol
Running from Nov. 29 through Dec 29, Lake Compounce amusement park transforms into a winter wonderland. Lake Compounce’s Holiday Lights is a New England’s Favorite Holiday Tradition. Take a stroll among hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights, and marvel at the tallest Christmas tree in the state. Attendees can enjoy their favorite rides, games and activities, including making their own snow globe, personalized ornaments, and Letters to Santa! Visit WWW.LAKECOMPOUNCE.COM for more information.
SENECA FALLS
New York
With the holiday season right around the corner, people are planning travels chock full of festive fun. Seneca County draws thousands of visitors year round, but it’s arguably the most magical when it settles in for that long winter’s nap.
That’s because the film’s director, Frank Capra, visited Seneca Falls while rewriting the script for the timeless holiday classic. There are many references to the hamlet itself known in the movie as Bedford Falls as well as the specific region of Western New York in which it is located.
In December, Seneca Falls hosts its annual “It’s a Wonderful Life” festival. The weekend includes appearances, screen readings, and Q&As from the original cast members, a few of whom have made the hamlet their “home away from home, Some cast members share their experiences from working on the film as well as observations about how much the community reminds them of Bedford Falls
The downtown businesses twinkle with dazzling decorations and offer food and retail specials that pertain to the film. Visitors can also check out the “It’s A Wonderful Life” Museum, which boasts the country’s largest collection of movie memorabilia.
The 2024 festival takes place Dec. 13-15. For the full program of presentations and special events, visit www THEREALBEDFORDFALLS.COM
OntheCover:TheMiddleBridgeinWoodstock, VTisoneofmanypicturesquespotsintown. Photo by The Woodstock Inn & Resort. AdvertisingInformation:(203)330-6238
Warm Up
with cool weather sports weather spo
by Susan Shultz
Connecticut and surrounding New England have some of the hottest ski mountains in the U.S. –but there’s so much more to do.
Connecticut can have some freezing cold temps come winter months, but what better way to get warm than with the variety of winter sports to be found in the area.
POWDER RIDGE MOUNTAIN PARK & RESORT
99 Powder Hill Road, Middlefield, CT
At Power Ridge Mountain Park and Resort, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding. First-timers are welcome and can take lessons from professionals at the resort. For those who are less enthused about the testing their skills on
skis or snowboards, snow tubing offers fun for all ages and abilities. Snow biking and snow biking lessons are also available, as is rental equipment.
Starting on Black Friday, through Christmas, Powder Ridge offers a winter festival on weekends.
The festival includes snow tubing a children’s snow play area, a winter village with craft vendors, food trucks, Santa, ice bar, snow play for the young ones, and much more.
The resort also offers rentable day rooms and overnight rooms for those who wish to stay overnight Daily and multiple day passes are available for purchase Visit WWW.POWDERRIDGEPARK.COM for more info.
CONTINUE Winter Warm-up ON PAGE 15
(Pictured at top) Families can enjoy cross-country skiing together. Photo contributed by The Woodstock Inn & Resort (Pictured bottom left & right)
Couple walks back up the hill after sledding at the resort. Horse-drawn carriage rides are perfect for a festive family afternoon or a romantic date
Photos contributed by Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort.
W
ith more than just menus that fulfill all of our seasonal cravings, the establishments on our nice list offer festive spaces to watch the snow fall. This winter, keep warm by a roaring fire watch the stars twinkle from the comfort of a heated “igloo,” or find joy in the decorative displays donned by local restaurants. No matter what bites and delights you indulge in this season, remember to leave out some milk and cookies for ol’ Saint Nick
Bites& s& Delights
Since the weather outside will soon be frightful, many of us will be in search of indoor dining destinations that are delightful.
by Alyssa Seidman
FIRESIDE DINING
Aquila’s Nest Vineyards in Newtown invites visitors to choose their own adventure while sipping on seasonal wines. As an experience-focused winery, the business boasts multiple places where you can ‘wine’ down this winter.
An assortment of dazzling Christmas ornaments hangs from the ceiling of the La Vie En Rose Pink Pergola, setting the mood for a festive night out.
CONTINUE Bites & Delights ON PAGE 12
superb cuisine, acclaimed wine list, unparalleled hospitality
(Pictured at top) Inspired by “Harry Potter,” the Forbidden Fireplace at Aquila’s Nest Vineyards invites you and your guests to sample a glass, flight, or bottle fireside. Photos contributed by Aquila’s Nest Vineyards. (Pictured at bottom) The La Vie En Rose Pink Pergola at Aquila’s Nest Vineyards has fire pits to keep you warm all winter long. Photo contributed by Aquila’s Nest Vineyards.
If you’re newto curling, sign up at our website forone of our public events now through April:
We’ll provide everything you need foryou and your friends to give it atry!
If you’ve curled before,reach out to our Director of Membership at theemail belowto learnmoreabout our club andits history.
Nutmeg CurlingClub 123 Glenwood Ave Bridgeport, CT 06610
Email: info@nutmegcurling.com
Telephone: (203)615-0077 www.nutmegcurling.com
Bonspiel: Acurling tournament.
House: Thecircular target at eachend of the curlingice
Button: Thecircleatthe center of thehouse
Biter: Anystone that touches theouter rings.
Curl: Howfar astone curves whiletraveling downthe ice.
Guard: Astone placed to protectanother stone from being knockedout
THIS WINTER, ROCK OUT
TRYCURLING
at FairfieldCounty’sonlydedicated club You’veseenitonTVintheOlympics.Now,comedownandgivethisgreat gameatryatNutmegCurlingClub–rightoffRt.8,nexttoBridgeport’s WonderlandofIce.
SignupforoneofourwinterLearn-to-Curlsessions–orifyou’vecurled before,joinourclubandenjoyleaguecompetitionallwinterlong!
Whycurling?
It’sfun!Curlinginvolves strategyas well as skill. Butwhether it’s acasual pickupgameora competitivematch,the goal is always to havea good time
As asport, curlingpromotesgood sportsmanship,respectfor other playersand apositive attitude. It’s family friendly.
It’s agreat waytomeet newpeople. Afterevery game, curlerssit down together to chat and raisea glasstogether It’s foreveryone
Curlingisa bargain compared to most winter sports.Membership costsare discounted for new playersand equipment isn’texpensive.
People of allagesand abilitiesenjoy curling. It’sa low-impactsport youcan do whether you’re young, oldorin between.
Curlinghas itsown colorful traditions shared by teamsall over the world. We don’thold tournaments;wehold “bonspiels”.Ashot thrown hardis“normal”, and one that’s tooshort is a“hog”. It’s unique.
Visitors are welcome to bring their own food or patronize the on-site food truck to enjoy a bite in front of their very own fire pit.
For the “Harry Potter” fans in your party, book the fantastical Forbidden Fireplace This seating space offers hilltop views of Newtown’s bucolic landscape, where you can pair your glass, bottle, or flight of wine with a magical sunset. For more information, visit WWW.AQUILASNESTVINEYARDS.COM
The Goose in Darien serves up fine dining and contemporary cuisine in a warm and welcoming environment literally The original fireplace was restored by the current owners offering diners a delightful backdrop to enjoy all of the restaurant’s menu offerings.
Start with a warming bowl of their French Onion Soup, Crab & Corn Chowder, or House Beef Chili. The Prime Rib French Dip and New York Strip are comfort on a plate, and can be perfectly paired with a bottle of red. The Goose won an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator in 2023. Visit WWW.THEGOOSEDARIEN.COM for more information.
Voted one of the Best Overall Restaurants in 2023 by readers of Connecticut Magazine, Union League Cafe in New Haven knows a thing or two about excellence. Capturing the old-world charm of a Parisian brasserie its superb cuisine, acclaimed wine list, and unparalleled hospitality are all a product of passion.
Whether staying for dinner or hosting a private event, Union League’s hearth fireplaces will keep you warm and so will the food. We recommend the Boneless Duck Confit to start, the Filet of Beef with a bone marrow crust and winter vegetables for your main, and a classic Soufflé du Jour to finish. Visit WWW
UNIONLEAGUECAFE.COM for more information.
A winter getaway awaits you at Winvian in Morris, a European-inspired resort which transports visitors away from their everyday lives The Restaurant at Winvian is recognized by Relais & Châteaux as one of the most outstanding luxury hotel restaurants in the world
Working with seasonal ingredients, many of which are harvested on site Executive Chef Chris Eddy invites patrons to sit back, relax, and savor. This winter, curl up by the massive stone fireplace to enjoy Homemade Parsnip Ravioli, House-Made Cavatelli swimming in beef ragout, or Humboldt Fog Goat Cheese accompanied by honeycomb, fig jam, and grilled bread for dessert yes, you read that right. Visit WWW WINVIAN.COM for more information.
CONTINUE Bites & Delights ON PAGE 14
Winter Sparkles
Discovernew funaround everycorner
Ourdowntowns andcozycommunities arewaiting to welcomeyou.Enjoy adrink by a fire pitortakeina show at oneofour unique musicvenues. Stroll throughour artexhibitsorsimplytakeinthe views from your room at aquaintB&B
Massachusettesisleading thenation in celebratingthisveryimportant anniversaryinour history. Before themainevent gets underway,come checkout some of thelesser-known sitesthatplayedanimportant role in therevolution!
Winter is loaded with superfun events andfestivals,including Gloucester’s So Salty, Salem’sSo Sweet,WinterLightsonCapeAnn, Merrimack RiverEagle Festival in Newburyport, andsomuchmore!
Whetheryou arelookingto fill aweekendora longer getaway, NorthofBostonhas the perfectitinerary
From quirky Salem,playful Salsibury,salty Gloucester, historic Newburyport,artsy Lynn,elegant NorthAndover, andrelaxing Rockport,there’s theperfect placefor you!
ChristmasinSalem ©Ann MarieCasey
courtesy of CiderHill Farm
Glover’s Regiment Marblehead ©Bryan Ruocco
IGLOO DINING
Starting this month, Aquila’s Nest will begin accepting reservations for its Igloo Spheres, covering the bases of fire and ice. Much like its fireside dining options, the spheres are situated on the vineyard’s hilltop, giving way to glorious views of the rolling countryside.
As the sun sets you and your guests will remain cozy and warm as each sphere is equipped with space heaters. They are also decorated with seasonal garland and twinkling Christmas lights, adding a magical touch to your already enchanting evening. Visit WWW AQUILASNESTVINEYARDS.COM for more information.
Dockside Brewery in Milford has a waterfront biergarten that’s also popular during the colder months. For the past few seasons, patrons have posted up at the business’ “igloo park” to enjoy frosty beers and warming bites from the comfort of heated, themed igloos.
On Dec. 8, the brewery will host ol’ Saint Nick for a very special event Lunch with Santa. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can enjoy a festive hot cocoa bar as well as holiday food and drink specials. Reservations are required. For more information, visit WWW
DOCKSIDEBREWERY.COM
As one of the only establishments in Stamford with a public rooftop, Sign of the Whale keeps the party going all winter long. The restaurant’s heated igloos overlook the city’s South End, and feature soft, loungestyle seating for the ultimate kickback experience.
As you gather with friends and family this season, let Sign serve as your secondary home for the holidays Sip and savor customizable food and drink options during a special private event, or enjoy a meal from the regular menu while taking in the restaurant’s stunning seasonal décor. For more information, visit WWW.SIGNOFTHEWHALECT.COM
cozy&warm
This winter you can experience the miracle of Christmas at Perfusion in Newtown and The Hop Knot in Portland. Both restaurants will play host to Miracle a themed pop-up cocktail bar that serves specialty cocktails in a fun and festive setting.
Celebrate the spirit of the season as you sip on carefully curated cocktails like Rudolph’s Replacement, the Crooked Antler, or the “Yippie Ki Yay” yes, “Die Hard” is a Christmas movie Each Miracle location will add their own magic to the mix as they decorate their establishments in kitschy holiday décor.
Miracle kicks off at Perfusion (274 S. Main St., Newtown) on Tuesday, Nov. 19, and at The Hop Knot (164 Main St., Portland) on Wednesday, Nov. 20 Visit WWW MIRACLEPOPUP.COM for more information.
Since 2008, Cava in Southington has transformed its entire restaurant into a winter wonderland for its annual Winter Spectacular. Each dining area is decorated with a different theme that’s thoughtfully designed and carefully assembled. New designs are developed every year and the themes are never repeated, making this seasonal spectacle a must-see.
The restaurant uses more than 150,000 lights, thousands of ornaments, and miles of garland to bring Winter Spectacular to life. And as far as the food, we have a few favorites. Try the P.E.I. Mussels Bianco, the House-Made Gnocchi with caramelized onions and burrata, or the classic Chicken Parmigiana. Visit WWW CAVACT.COM for more information.
(Pictured at top) Igloo spheres, fireplaces, pergolas, oh my! All that and more can be found at Aquila’s Nest Vineyards in Newtown. Photo contributed by Aquila’s Nest Vineyards. (Pictured middle & bottom) Miracle’s drink menu features
cocktails like the tropical “Yippie Ki Yay,” pictured. It has three rums, pineapple juice, ube, and coconut orgeat. Miracle’s drink menu
festive cocktails like the Crooked Antler, pictured. Photos contributed by Melissa Hom for Miracle.
THE WOODSTOCK INN & RESORT
14 The Green, Woodstock, Vermont
Just over the CT border snow fun fans can find a winter wonderland at The Woodstock Inn & Resort. While staying at luxurious inn complete with fine dining and appointed accommodations, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.
The Woodstock Inn & Resort offers skiing and snowboarding at the Saskadena Six mountain area, as well as cross country skiing and snowshoeing at the Nordic Center.
All levels of ability are welcome, and lessons and rentals are also available.
For more information, visit WWW.WOODSTOCKINN.COM
SKI MOUNT SOUTHINGTON
396 Mount Vernon Road, Plantsville, CT
Since 1968, Mount Southington has been offering family fun on the slopes. The ski area offers the newly trending terrain-based lessons for skiers and snowboarders. Terrain-based learning makes learning to ski or snowboard easier and more fun. By using specifically shaped snow features to naturally control your speed and body position, terrain-based learning removes the traditional fears and anxieties associated with first timers sliding on snow, allowing you to focus purely on the fun.
In addition to the standard skiing and snowboard programs and lessons Mouth Southington also offers lessons in “free” skiing beginning at age 6. Freeskiing is a type of alpine skiing involving tricks and terrain park features Students learn and grow together and get a taste of competition
As students advance, they may opt to partake in Mount Southington’s freeskiing team and enter competitions.
Mount Southington also offers a variety of dining options and can host your next special event.
For more information, visit WWW.MOUNTSOUTHINGTON.COM
SKI SUNDOWN
126 Ratlum Road, New Hartford, CT
Ski Sundown has been entertaining winter adventurers for decades in New Hartford. Offering a variety of lessons for kids and teens, adults and adaptive lessons for any age over 4, Ski Sundown truly has something for everyone.
Ski Sundown also offers night skiing From 6 to 10 p.m., ski under the lights on freshly groomed trails! Ski Sundown offers 16 lighted trails to explore, seven nights a week.
Ski Sundown is the only ski area in the region that offers a second trail groom at 6 p.m., to give you those fresh, corduroy conditions that you are crave! Night skiing and riding allows skiers to enjoy chairlift rides under the stars to relax and recharge after a long day.
Visitors can even grab a bite to eat and a cocktail at The Last Chair bar to wrap up the evening. An added bonus is the value-driven pricing that night skiing offers.
Ski Sundown also offers both beginner and advanced terrain skiing and snowboarding to keep things interesting Visit WWW.SKISUNDOWN.COM for more info.
Child learning to ski with an instructor.
Photo contributed by The Woodstock Inn & Resort.
