GOINGS ON

BRANFORD VISUAL ARTS

Branford Arts & Cultural Alliance, presents “The Painted Doors of Branford,” Over sixty decorated doors will be displayed on Main St. as a symbolic reopening of our community. Visit the display, vote for your favorites, and participate in the silent auction to purchase and bring your favorite door home. All monies raised fund college scholarships for deserving & talented students who will be furthering their education in the written, visual & performing arts. Jeanettemobeck@yahoo.com

BRIDGEPORT HOLIDAYS

New Year's Eve Special: Quantico Marine Corps Band from Quantico, Virginia, virtual concert hosted by Klein Memorial Auditorium, Dec. 31, 7 p.m. theklein.org

Winter Wonderland Walk, Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Ave. Through Jan. 6. Safe, outdoor setting that includes Polar Palace, Fairy House Lane and Imagination Station, Poinsettia Pass, Winter Village Square, Snowman Park, Nutcracker Palace, Dreidel Drive, Gingerbread Boulevard, Kris Kringle Corner, Evergreen Lane, train display, custom artist and childrendesigned snowmen. Open seven days a week, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $15 adults, $10 children age 3-11 and seniors over 62. Children under three are free. Masks and social distancing required. Tickets at beardsleyzoo.org.

VISUAL ARTS

“In Accordion Time, Unfolding,” show by London Calling Collective, featuring mail art in the form of poetic accordion-fold books as well as diverse digital dialogues, the show reflects the bonds between artists as individuals and as a group as they reimagine community for life during and after a pandemic, Ursa Gallery, 100 Main St. Through Feb. 12, noon- 6 p.m. ursa.gallery

“Winter Wonderland” at Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Ave. Zoo grounds will have 10 one-of-a-kind snowpeople sculptures from local artists on display at the Zoo through March. Online public vote to choose a first, second, and third place winner with cash prizes of $250, $125, and $75 respectively. beardsleyzoo.org jtaylor@beardsleyzoo.org.

“Scream and Shout,” the art of Carlos Bautista Biernnay, absurd fiber art influenced by the artist's personal reactions to events on 9/11 in the United States and in Chile, now online on the City Lights website. citylightsgallery.org

“Photorealism: Fixing the Fleeting Moment,” Housatonic Museum of Art on the Housatonic Community College Campus, 900 Lafayette Blvd. New exhibit on view through Dec. 2021; “The Roots of Abstraction,” exhibit on view through Aug. 31, 2021. An appointment to visit the museum is necessary, and visitors must be prepared to com

ply with social distancing rules and wear protective face masks. Housatonic Museum of Art will also make the exhibit available as a slideshow, virtual tour and as a print-on-demand catalog. 203332-5052, housatonicmuseum.org

BRISTOL SPECIALS

New England Carousel Museum and Museum of Fire History, virtual tours offered on Zoom, through Dec. 31. $50 for a 45 minute tour with Q&A, or $100 for virtual tour with the Restoration Department staff. To select a theme and register for the link to the recorded tour visit thecarouselmuseum.org 860585-5411

CENTERBROOK HOLIDAYS

Holiday Exhibit: “Home Sweet Home,” Spectrum Gallery, 61 Main St. In-person exhibit runs through Jan. 10. Masks and use of hand sanitizer required upon entering the Gallery. Hours Wed-Sat noon-6 p.m.; Sun noon-5 p.m. 860-7670742, spectrumartgallery.org.

DANBURY BOOKS

Author Talk with Danielle Martin, author of “Glimmer As You Can,” virtual program hosted by Danbury Library on Zoom, Jan. 6, 7 p.m. Registration required. 203-7974505, danburylibrary.org

VISUAL ARTS

Joy Bush will exhibit her work, Gallery at Still River Editions, 128 E Liberty St. Jan-March. Regular gallery hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Open to 1 or 2 visitors from the same household at one time, masks required. 203-791-1474, stillrivereditions.com

Cultural Alliance of Western Con

necticut is hosting an online show meant to uplift and show the strength of community members during crises of the past year. “Arts Are > Greater Than” is open to artists in Connecticut and New York. Exhibit will run through Jan. cawct.org

DARIEN HOLIDAYS

Noon Year’s Eve, virtual countdown to “noon” hosted by Darien Library on Zoom, Dec. 31, 11:30 a.m. Register at darienlibrary.org

ESSEX HOLIDAYS

Holiday Train Show, Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St. Through Feb. 14. Tue-Sun 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $10 adults, $8 seniors, $7 students, $6 children (6-12), under 6 free.

Timed, ticketed admission for all guests, including members. 860767-8269, ctrivermuseum.org

VISUAL ARTS

River Valley Artists group show with works by artists from Essex, Chester and Deep River, Earth and Fire Art Studio, 2 Main St. Through Jan. 23. Gallery hours: Wed, Thu 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri, Sat noon-4 p.m. earthandfireartstudio.com, 860767-753-2425.

Essex Art Association’s virtual exhibit, “Art in Isolation,” on view. Submissions on a rolling basis accepted. essexartassociation.com

FAIRFIELD BOOKS

Virtual Story Time hosted by Fairfield University Bookstore with Literacy Crusader & former New England Patriots Super Bowl Champ Malcolm Mitchell, author of “My Very Favorite Book in the Whole Wide World,” Jan. 2, 2-2:45 p.m. Visit facebook.com/FairfieldUBookstore on event day and watch live. Mitchell will read virtually to kids and answer questions. Signed copies available for purchase online at fairfieldbookstore.com or in store at the Downtown Fairfield University Bookstore.

HOLIDAYS

Holiday Express Model Train Show, Fairfield Museum And History Center, 370 Beach Road. Through Jan. 3, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $5 nonmembers and children over 5, free members and children 5 and younger. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are for specific dates and times. Each ticket allows for a 50 minute visit. Visit fairfieldhistory.org/eventscalendar/ and click on the date you wish to attend to purchase tickets. 203-259-1598, info@fairfieldhs.org

OUTDOORS

Nature Walk at Oak Lawn Cemetery & Arboretum, 1530 Bronson Road. Self-guided tour highlights some of the specimen trees and historic markers. Brochure with map available at the office kiosk or click the QR code from your smartphone to use the audio tour.

VISUAL ARTS

“Outside” show by Art/Place members, Fairfield Theater Company building, 70 Sanford St. On view in the gallery daily 11 a.m.-5 p.m. until futher notice. 203-3191404

“Crossing the Border: The Challenging Truths of Human Migration,” Pequot Library, 720 Pequot Ave. Through Jan. 23. In-person exhibit browsing hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, 3-6 p.m.; Fridays, 3-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 2-4 p.m. Masks and physical distancing required. 203-259-0346, pequotlibrary.org

“Hiroshige I, Fuchu: The Abe River,” online viewing offered by Fairfield University Art Museum. fairfield.edu/museum

FARMINGTON HOLIDAYS

“The Nutcracker Reimagined,” performed by Ballet Theatre Company, Hill-Stead Museum, 35 Mountain Road. Through Jan. 10. $20 members & children, $25 nonmembers. Tickets must be purchased in advance. No tickets sold at the door. All safety precautions enforced.

GREENWICH EDUCATIONAL

Greenwich Art Society Studio School Winter Term opens for hybrid, in-person & new online classes. Classes start Jan. 8. G.A.S. Studio School will follow strict Covid safety protocols for those classes to be held in studio. Winter term class schedule and registration availability at greenwichartsociety.org

VISUAL ARTS

“Tabula Rasa,” features pieces by Ben Quesnel, Greenwich Art Center's Bendheim Gallery. 299 Greenwich Ave. Through Jan. 5. Viewing hours by appointment, weekdays 10 a.m.-4 p.m., weekends noon-4 p.m. greenwichartscouncil.org

“MASKED/ UnMASKED,” by Serge Clement and Marina Kamena, Gilles Clement Gallery, 45, E. Putnam Ave. Through Jan. 19. Hours: Tue-Sat 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. 203-489-3556, e-mail derdos@gclementgallery.com, gclementgallery.com

“Places We Love” oil paintings by Jennifer Williams, Galerie 888, 96 Greenwich Ave. Exhibit on display through Dec. 31, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. galerie888.ct@gmail.com 203856-9048.

“Animal Attraction” by Heidi Johnson, Greenwich Library Flinn Gallery, 101 W. Putnam Ave. Through Jan. 6. 203-622- 7947, flinngallery.com

Historical Society Museum Gallery, 47 Strickland Road. Advance reservations are required to visit the museum galleries, and the number of visitors will be limited. Museum Store is also open. Library and Archives open by appointment only. Heirloom gardens and historic grounds open, and new docent-led Site & Landscape Tours to come. The Bush-Holley House remains closed. Reserve at greenwichhistory.org or 203-869-6899

Exhibit of children’s book illustrations from the archives of artist, illustrator, and author James Stevenson, “Fun / No Fun: Children’s Book Art,” through April 18; “She Sweeps with Many-Colored Brooms:” Paintings and Prints by Emily Mason, Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Dr. Exhibit on view through March 21; “House on the Hill: The Changing Face of the Bruce Museum,” Online version of the exhibit available at houseonthehillexhibition.com. Admission by advance reservation, with timed ticketing. Tue-Sun, 9:30-10:30 a.m. for self-selected individuals over the age of 65 or who are immunocompromised; Tue-Sun, 10:30-11:30 a.m. members. All remaining hours are unchanged. Mask or cloth face covering required. Museum store open. Online exhibits: “On the Edge of the World: Masterworks by Laurits Andersen Ring from SMKthe National Gallery of Denmark,” “Under the Skin,” and “House on the Hill: The Changing Face of the Bruce Museum.” 203-869-0376, brucemuseum.org

GUILFORD SPECIALS

Henry Whitfield State Museum, 248 Old Whitfield St. is open outside. The public is welcome on the museum grounds to see the historic buildings in person, explore the site’s history through new interpretive signs, figure out the three Visitor Center “What Is It?” window displays, and play a scavenger hunt and submit answers for a chance to win a prize at the end of the year. Outdoor visitors are also encouraged to picnic, play catch, read, paint, etc. Social distancing required. Online offerings with photos, videos, and historical information on social media, a museum collections database , and a Whitfield House virtual tour. Parking is free. 203

453-2457 or e-mail whitfieldmuseum@ct.gov.

HAMDEN

VISUAL ARTS

“Silverbells Art Exhibit and Sale,” on-line exhibit available for viewing at hamdenartleague.org

HARTFORD

HOLIDAYS

Comedy Craft Beer Tour New’s Year’s Eve Comedy featuring Mike Hanley, City Steam Brewery Cafe, 942 Main St. Dec. 31, 8-10 p.m. $30. Show takes place indoors. Capacity is limited and tables will be socially distanced. All public areas will be cleaned, wiped, and sanitized regularly as per state mandate. First glass of beer is included with ticket. 954-729-6282, comedycraftbeer.com

“Christmas on the Rocks,” virtual holiday tradition hosted by TheaterWorks, through Dec. 31. $25. 860-986-7466, twhartford.org

First Night Hartford 2021 is allvirtual, with livestreamed events and Zoom arts and crafts, Dec. 31, beginning around 2 p.m. and end just after midnight. Admission is free to all events. Buttons will be sold and your purchase goes as a donation. $25 “First Night in a Box” with supplies to interact with the craft workshops, as well as Hartford-based trivia, a coloring book and other items. No fireworks will be set off over the Capitol. firstnighthartford.org

Holiday Light Fantasia, Goodwin Park, 1130 Maple Ave. Through Jan. 3. Thu-Sun 5-10 p.m. $15 car (up to 10 passengers), $25 limousine, $50 mini bus (up to 30 passengers), $100 full size bus (31 passengers +). Drive-through wonderland of holiday spirit that celebrate not only Christmas, but Hanukkah,

New Years and Three Kings Day. Benefits Channel 3 Kids Camp. 860-742-2267, facebook.com/ HartfordHolidayLightFantasia

“The Nutcracker Suite & Spicy,” performed by CONNetic Dance, free virtual stream, through Dec. 31. Production alongside the documentary film about it will be presented in partnership with the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. Related virtual events: cocktail party, giveaways, fun activity downloads, and talk backs. Stream available at wadsworth.org and conneticdance.com.

MUSIC

Hartford Symphony Orchestra presents Spotlight: Music for Strings & Organ, through Jan. 10. Part of the virtual on-demand HSO Spotlight Series. Tickets and information available at hartfordsymphony.org.

SPECIALS

Family Grab & Go Bags: Ordinary to Extraordinary, Connecticut Historical Society Museum and Library, One Elizabeth St. Jan. 2, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Transform ordinary items into extraordinary art with a free family Grab and Go bag, available for one day only. Look closely at collages made by Clifford Mitchell, a Connecticut artist, and see how many shapes, objects, and colors you can find within. Then, create your own collage. All necessary materials included. 860-236-5621, chs.org

VISUAL ARTS

“Ali Banisadr / MATRIX 185,” Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, 600 Main St. Through Feb. 14; “Made in Connecticut: Celebrating 25 Years of the CT Art Trail,” through Feb. 7. Visitors are required to wear a face mask and observe social distance while on the grounds of the Wadsworth and inside the museum. Visit website for required advance registration, current hours and admission. “Sculpture in the City” a cityscapefocused program activating the works of sculpture and architectural design on the grounds of the Wadsworth and Main St. thewadsworth.org.

KENT

VISUAL ARTS

“Lofty Spirits” photo exhibit by Maria J. LaFontan and Lucy C. Pierpont, Library Gallery, 32 N. Main St. Online only Jan. 4-Feb. 27. 860-927-3761, kentmemoriallibrary.org

LITCHFIELD

FILMS

50th Anniversary of Earth Day with One Earth, Our Earth Film Series, Litchfield Community Center, 421 Bantam Road. Doc’s & Dialog line-up: “A Simpler Way,” Jan. 6; “A Time to Choose,” Feb. 3. All films run 6-8 p.m. Free will offering. Limited to 25 with registration required. Bring a brown bag dinner. Tea, coffee and packaged snack served. 860-567-8302, thecommunitycenter.org

MASHANTUCKET COMEDY

Nye with Comedian Kool Bubba Ice, Foxwoods Resort Casino Centrale Fox Tower, 350 Trolley Line Blvd. Dec. 31, 7:30 p.m. No cover. 860-312-3000, foxwoods.com

HOLIDAYS

New Year’s Eve with Kool Bubba Ice, Foxwoods Resort Casino Centrale Fox Tower, 350 Trolley Line Blvd. Dec. 31, 8 p.m. Safe and socially distanced seating. Reservations required. No cover. 860312-3000, foxwoods.com

MERIDEN

HOLIDAYS

Festival of Silver Lights, Hubbard Park & Castle Craig, 1000 West Main St. Through Jan. 2. Dusk to dawn. Free. 203- 630-4259, meridenct.gov

MIDDLETOWN

VISUAL ARTS

“From The Heart” by artist Laura Vaczek, Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts Center, 605 Main St. Through Dec 31. Gallery hours: Wednesdays 9-11a.m. & 6-8 p.m; Thursdays 2-5 p.m. CDC rules for viewing enforced. buttonwood.org

MILFORD

SPECIALS

“How Networking Can Grow Your Business,” Do’s and Dont’s of effective networking and how to grow your business through making the right connections, virtual presentation hosted by Network of Executive Women, Jan. 5, at noon. Virtual meeting fees are $5 members, $10 guests. Register at networkofexecutivewomen.org

VISUAL ARTS

Milford Arts Council announce their project grant, “Meet Me At The Bench,” awarded by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development: Office of the Arts. Bench designs by creatives, artists, and craftsmen who created and will install six unique benches re-imagined as artistic and community experiences throughout downtown Milford. Project which will launch in Spring 2021.

MYSTIC

Holiday Lights Spectacular, Olde Mistick Village, 27 Coogan Blvd. Through Jan. Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri & Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun, 11a.m.-6 p.m. Face coverings required and social distancing is maintained in our wide open campus of stores. oldemistickvillage.com

VISUAL ARTS

“Sailor Made: Folk Art of the Sea,” Mystic Seaport Museum, 75 Greenmanville Ave. New exhibit now open, C.D. Mallory Building “A Way with Wood: Celebrating Craft,” exhibit on view in Collins Gallery. 860-572-0711, mysticseaport.org

NEW BRITIAN

VISUAL ARTS

“2020/20+ Women @ NBMAA,” New Britain Museum of American Art on view through Jan. 31; “Some Day is Now, Women, Art & Social Change,” on view through Jan. 24. 860-229-0257, nbmaa.org

NEW CANAAN

VISUAL ARTS

“Peter Monaghan: Fold” solo exhibit, Heather Gaudio Fine Art, 66 Elm St. Through Jan. 9. 203-801-9590, heathergaudiofineart.com

“Texture + Transparency,” virtual tours and online programming hosted by The Glass House, available on the website. theglasshouse.org

“The Golden Door,” Silvermine Gallery, 1037 Silvermine Road. Through Jan. 16. In-person viewing, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Related events: Michelle Loh, New York City-based art advisor and gallery director will produce video interviews with the “Golden Door” artists that premier weekly. Schedule in advance at 203-966-9700, ext. 3, silvermineart.org

NEW HAVEN

HOLIDAYS

First Night of Funny, virtual New Year's Eve stand-up comedy event, hosted by Shubert Theatre, Dec. 31, 8 p.m. $20. Show will be live streamed through the Watch Live Now app on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV and Apple TV as well as WatchLiveNow.com. shubert.com/show

Virtual performance hosted by the Shubert Theatre: “A Christmas Carol,” through Jan. 3. $50. 203624-0825, shubert.com

Fantasy of Lights, Lighthouse Point Park, 2 Lighthouse Road. Through Dec. 31. Sun-Thu 5-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5-10 p.m. $10 car, $25 minibus, $50 full-size bus. 203-777-2000, goodwillsne.org

MUSIC

New Haven Symphony Orchestra presents Alternative Programming online and social media: NHSO @Home Series: NHSO musicians and guest artists perform music from home; Instrument Selection Resource Center; and Listen Up! Podcast Series. newhavensymphony.org

SPECIALS

Natural Science Illustration Classes for Adults, offered by Yale Peabody Museum on-line through its Natural Science Illustration Program. Registration is open beginning in Jan. Register and information, visit peabody.yale.edu or call 203-4323775.

New Haven Museum: “Documenting the COVID-19 Crisis,” an effort to collect stories and photos of life in New Haven during the coronavirus quarantine. Also virtual offerings. newhavenmuseum.org

Beinecke Library at Yale University has a new offering on YouTube: “Introduction to the Collection of Modern European Books and Manuscripts with Curator Kevin Repp.” Digital exhibits: “1917 Silent Protest Parade Fifth Avenue, New York City,” “Protest Culture in Peril: Frigidaire under Threat in Italy Today,” “Carl Van Vechten’s Harlem Renaissance Portraits,” “America and the Utopian Dream,” “Making the Medieval English M anuscript.” beinecke.library.yale.edu

STAGE

“Abundancia,” presented and performed as a pre-recorded radio play accompanied by a video with technical elements by Matchbox Theatre Company, Jan. 1-10. Tickets are $12 and will go towards paying the creative team that put the show together. Tickets at bit.ly/3ok34H0

The New Haven Museum, 114 Whitney Ave. is temporarily closed to the public.203-562-4183, newhavenmuseum.org

“Seeing Nature Through Art,” exhibit features 30 works of art created by the instructors of Yale Peabody Museum’s Natural Science Illustration Program, now online. peabody.yale.edu

VISUAL ARTS

“Perseverance: Three Artists Work through Stressful Times,” City Gallery, 994 State St. Jan. 2-31. Sat-Sun 2-4 p.m., or by appointment. Free admission. Artists in the gallery: Michael Zack, Jan. 2; Ruth Sack, Jan. 3; and Susan Newbold, Jan. 31. Number of visitors limited to six at a time. Mask and observe social distancing protocols required. 203-782-2489, city-gallery.org

NEW MILFORD

HOLIDAYS

“Holiday Happenings,” Gallery 25 and Creative Arts Studio, 11 Railroad St. Through Jan. 9. Gallery hours: Thu noon-3 p.m., Fri & Sat noon-6 p.m., Sun noon-3 p.m. 860-355-6009, Gallery25CT.com

VISUAL ARTS

“When the Snow Flies,” Gallery 25 and Creative Arts Studio, 11 Railroad St. Through Jan. 9. Gallery hours: Thu noon- 3 p.m.; Fri & Sat noon-6 p.m.; Sun noon-3 p.m. gallery25ct.com

NEWTOWN

HOLIDAYS

2020 Break Up New Year's Eve Celebration, Aquila's Nest Vineyard, 56 Pole Bridge Road. Dec. 31, 6-8 p.m. $27. Let's break up with 2020 in a socially distanced, limited availability celebration. Ticket price includes two glasses of wine and live music. El Puestito food truck will be in the vineyard. 203518-4352, aquilasnestvineyards.com

NIANTIC

HOLIDAYS

Countdown to Noon Contest, virtual broadcast live on Facebook hosted by Children's Museum of Southeastern Connecticut, Dec. 31, 11 a.m. Science demos, learn about our Museum animals, New Year’s traditions from around the world and have some New Year’s food fun. The Balloon Drop will be broadcast live from the Museum.

For the grown-ups, we’re raffling off a four-course gourmet dinner for two prepared by the awardwinning chefs at Gourmet Galley. Countdown2020.givesmart.com

NORWALK EDUCATIONAL

Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, 10 N Water St. Online Programs for Families: “Fish Tales,” “All About Sea Turtles,” “Shark Safari” and other similar educational programs available for live streaming each week. Suggested donation. All require advance reservations to receive the link. 203-852-0700, ext. 2206; maritimeaquarium.org/ virtual-programs

FILMS

Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk IMAX Theater, 10 N Water St. Re-opens for seven weeks of films in a memorable giant-screen finale. Through Jan. 18. IMAX movie tickets are $5 per person. COVID precautions include reduced capacity, physical distancing and required face masks. See the entire IMAX finale movie schedule, view trailers and reserve tickets at maritimeaquarium.org.

HOLIDAYS

Dancing New Year’s Eve, Dance Dimensions, 15 Cross St. Offering dancers an afternoon of in-person beginner lessons in Salsa, Hustle, and West Coast Swing, Dec. 31, 2-5 p.m. Pre-registration required. Rules for safety: Masks required, hand sanitizer provided, and 20 person limit. Register at dancingnewyearsevect.com

“Christmas Playtime at the Mansion,” Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum, 295 West Ave. Through Jan. 3. Wed-Thu, Sat-Sun noon-2 p.m. $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 youth, free children (7 and under). Museum’s doll collection along with several vintage toys will be exhibited. First floor of the Mansion will feature Christmas trees decorated with period-appropriate ornaments, a dining table adorned with antique silver and china, several playful dolls and toy vignettes and Victorian gowns. Contemporary displays and trees also on display. Tours of the new exhibit will be on a limited basis due to the continued threat of COVID-19 and to achieve safe distancing measures. Tickets must be purchased online through the website. No walk-ins accepted. 203-838-9799, lockwoodmathewsmansion.com

OUTDOORS

Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, 10 N Water St. Seal-Spotting and Birding Cruises: Jan. 9, 1 p.m. and Jan. 10, 2 p.m. Advance reservations required. $31.50, $26.50 for Aquarium members. COVID precautions include reduced capacity, physical distancing and required face masks. 203-852-0700, ext. 2206; maritimeaquarium.org

SPECIALS

“Living Lights,” Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St. Exhibit features creatures that have the unique ability to glow in the dark, through fluorescence or a natural process called bioluminescence. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m., through Dec. Limited guest capacity, masks required, ticket sales online with timed entries. $26.95, $24.95 age 65+, $19.95 ages 3-12. Free with admission. 203-852-0700, maritimeaquarium.org

VISUAL ARTS

Call to artists for a juried exhibit titled, “Socially Distant Art: Creativity in Lockdown,” LockwoodMathews Mansion Museum, 295

West Ave. Submission deadline is Feb. 15, noon. Exhibit will open April 8 and run through Aug. 29, and will be held in the Billiards Room. Fine arts media, watercolor, oil, acrylic, drawing, pastel, small sculpture, mixed media, photography, monotype, monoprint, and fiber art accepted. $35 fee for four images inclusive of a one-year membership will be required to enter. Enter submissions on the website. 203-838-9799, lockwoodmathewsmansion.com City of Norwalk Parking Authority’s Maritime Garage Gallery is holding a virtual exhibit entitled “Splash.” Featuring artwork with pieces that bring light and energy via bright colors and dynamic composition. The exhibit will run through March 14. Artists and the public are encouraged to participate via the Gallery’s social media. 203- 8319063, norwalkpark.org/public-art “Days to Remember: Members Exhibit,” Center For Contemporary Printmaking, 299 West Ave. Ingallery through Feb 21. Related event: “William Evertson: Mythologies,” recognizes the work of member William Evertson’s woodcut prints. Free. Admittance is by timed entry. Contact CCP to reserve a timeslot at 203-899-7999. E-mail: info@contemprints.org

OLD SAYBROOK

FILMS

“Herb Alpert Is...,” virtual documentary screening hosted by Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, available through Dec. 31. Ticket allows for 30 days of viewing from the date of purchase. Purchase your ticket at bit.ly/373fb5l. 860510-0453, thekate.org

RIDGEFIELD

FILMS

“Almost Famous,” Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 E. Ridge. Jan. 1, 3:30 & 7 p.m. $10. Masks and social distance required at all times. 203-438-5795, ridgefieldplayhouse.org

VISUAL ARTS Exhibit “Frank Stella's Stars, A Survey,” on view in the Sculpture Garden and in the galleries, through May 9, 2021. Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, 258 Main St. aldrichart.org

SHARON

VISUAL ARTS

“NOSTALGIA,” exhibit featuring work by Ann Toebbe and Carly Glovinski, Standard Space, 147 Main St. Through Jan. 10. Four individuals or one family group admitted into the exhibit at a time. Mask required. Open to the public by appointment under Pandemic, Covid-19 rules, Fri-Sun noon-6 p.m. Mon-Thu by appointment. 917-6273261, standardspace.net

SHERMAN

HOLIDAYS

First Friday Hike/Snowshoe Excursion, Connecticut Audubon Society Deer Pond Farm, 57 Wakeman Hill Road. Jan. 1, 1 p.m. Free. Start the new year with a hike or snowshoe excursion for fresh air, exercise and good company. Different trails and routes each month. 860-799-4074, ctaudubon.org

SPECIALS

JCC of Sherman’s Open Mic Night, 9 Route 39 S., in the parking lot, Thurs, 6-8 p.m. Register by 5 p.m. before arriving. Free. Donation of $10 non-performers, $5 performers. Social distancing of 6-feet apart. Everyone is required to wear their masks (that covers nose & mouth) at all times. You will not be admitted without one. jccinsherman.org

VISUAL ARTS

“Light Reveals” by Suzanne Ashley, Sherman Library, 1 Sherman Center. Artwork on display in-person through Jan. 6. Tue-Sat 2-4 p.m. Also available virtually on the Sherman Library website. 860354-2455, shermanlibrary.org.

SOUTH NORWALK

HOLIDAY

SoNo Holiday Arts Market-Arts, Crafts and ART-ful Gifts, Washington St. Through Dec. 24, Fri-Sun noon- 5 p.m. Gallery Stroll featuring fine art, food, crafts, clothing, lotions, stationary, furniture, candles, home decor. Safe practices, masks and social distancing required. 518-852-6478

SOUTH WINDSOR

HOLIDAYS

Gingerbread House Festival: A Picture Perfect Holiday, Promenade Shops at Evergreen Walk, 501 Evergreen Way. Through Jan. 3. Free. Social distancing and safe covid-19 precautions. 860-2891783, woodmemoriallibrary.org

STAMFORD

FILMS

Avon Theatre, 272 Bedford St. In-Person screenings: “Promising Young Woman,” through Dec. 31. Fri-Sun 1, 4:15, 7:30 p.m.; Mon-Wed 4:15, 7:30 p.m.; Thu 1, 4:15, 7:30 p.m. “The Dissident,” through Dec. 31. Fri-Sun 12:30, 3:45, 7 p.m.; MonWed 3:45, 7 p.m.; Thu 12:30, 3:45, 7 p.m. $9 Avon members, $14.50 public. avontheatre.org

VISUAL ARTS

“BIOPHILIA: A Dialogue with Art, Nature and Science,” Museum & Nature Center’s Bendel Galleries, 151 Scofieldtown Road. Through Jan. 10. 203-977-6521, stamfordmuseum.org “Faces of Pandemic Front Lines” presented by The Connecticut Society of Portrait Artists (CSOPA) in collaboration with Stamford Downtown, currently offers an online gallery, and a storefront display, 170 Bedford St. csopa.org

STRATFORD

HOLIDAYS

New Year’s Eve with Irv Lewis performing live, Station House Wine Bar, 2520 Main St. Dec. 31, 6-9 p.m. Dine inside or outside under the heaters or at the Bar. Mask required. 203-377-1648.

LECTURES

“Conversations on Racial Equity ” six-part series, presented by Stratford CARE (Citizens Addressing Racial Equity) and sponsored by the Town of Stratford, Stratford Clergy Association and the Stratford Library on Zoom. Programs are: “Health Disparities,” Jan. 7; “Educational Disparities,” Feb. 4; “Employment Disparities,” March 4; and “Criminal Justice Disparities,” April 1. All sessions run 7:308:45 p.m. 203-385-4162. Register at stratfordcare.org/courage

SPECIALS

National Helicopter Museum at Railroad Station (east bound), 2480 Main St. By appointment only. Masks required. Free admission, parking. 203-375-8857, nationalhelicoptermuseum.org

TORRINGTON

STAGE

International Playwrights Festival production of “Put on a Grumpy Face” by Reed Halvorson, virtual production presented by Warner Theatre, streams beginning Jan. 1, 7 p.m. and runs through Jan. 13. No fee to watch but donations accepted. warnertheatre.org

UNCASVILLE

COMEDY

Orlando Baxter, Comix Roadhouse at Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino, 1 Mohegan Sun Blvd. Dec. 31, 8 p.m.; Jan. 1, 7:30 p.m.; Jan. 2, 8 p.m. $55-$25. In the Comedy Club: Spinnato’s Comedy Magic Show: Jim Spinnato, Jan. 1, 5 p.m.; Malik Haddadi, Jan. 2, 4 p.m.; George Saterial, Jan. 3, 4 p.m. $15, $10; Silly Sunday: Darren Rivera & Friends, Jan. 3, 8 p.m. $20, $15, $10. comixroadhouse.com mohegansun.com

WALLINGFORD

HOLIDAYS

Magic of Lights, Toyota Oakdale Theater, 95 South Turnpike Road. Through Jan. 2, 5-10 p.m. daily. Standard vehicle: Mon-Thu $30; Fri-Sun $35; Limo/bus: Mon-Thu $55, Fri-Sun $60. Drive-through from the comfort and safety of your own car as you wind through the sparkling path. magicoflights.com

WASHINGTON

HOLIDAYS

Institute of American Indian Studies, 38 Curtis Road. Gift Shop is open. Museum and Gift Shop is open Fri, Sat 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun noon-4 p.m. Reserve a spot for in-person shopping by calling 860-868-0518 or e-mail events@isismuseum.org. Virtual Holiday Market available through Jan. 3, on the Institute's website. isismuseum.org

SPECIALS

Celebration of Young Photographers Show/Sale. The top 60 photos will be available for purchase from Still River Editions, in Danbury, through Jan. 6. Gunn Historical Museum’s Washington Cemetery Tour will be pre-recorded and posted on the Museum’s website gunnmuseum.org and social media channels for viewing.

VISUAL ARTS

“Recent Paintings,” works by Megan Marden, Gunn Library Stairwell Gallery, 5 Wykeham Road. Exibit on display through Jan. 2. Library hours at gunnlibrary.org. 860-8687586, e-mail gunncirc@biblio.org. Washington Art Association issues a call for entries for its “Post Pandemic” Exhibit that will be on view in 2021. COVID-19 global pandemic is an unprecedented event and presents a unique opportunity for artists to discover themselves. Participants are invited to submit up to three original 5” x 7” (postcard sized) works to be selected for inclusion in a group show that highlights each artist’s experience, impressions, and processes during the pandemic. info@washingtonartassociation.org. Institute for American Indian Studies Indoor Museum, 38 Curtis Road. Masks required inside the museum and outdoors on the grounds when you are within six feet of other visitors, staff, or presenters. Museum and Grounds are open Fridays and Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sundays, noon-4 p.m. 860-8680518, e-mail general@iaismuseum.orgiaismuseum.org

WATERBURY

SPECIALS

Palace Theater introduces new streaming products: “Broadway Buzz” podcast will feature music, anecdotal information, and interviews with theatre notables. “Concert Conversations” a second podcast devoted to CT based concert musicians is set to begin airing episodes after the first of the year. To learn more about the podcasts go to palacetheaterct.org

VISUAL ARTS

Mattatuck Museum exhibits “Edward Balthazar: Urban Artist;” and “Women’s Sphere: Selections from the Collection” online until the end of the year. mattmuseum.org

WESTBROOK

VISUAL ARTS

Fine Art Show featuring CT artists, Peter, Paul and Nancy, Six Summit Gallery at Westbrook Outlets, 314 Flat Rock Place Suite F135, F140. Jan. 2-30. 860-581-8332, sixsummitgallery.com

WEST HARTFORD

DANCE

Ballet Theatre Company’s “Through the Tulle,” exhibit showcases its vast collection of tutus and performance costumes in museums and galleries throughout New England. Open in its entirety at the Hill-Stead Museum in Farmington, through the end of the year. dancebtc.org

HOLIDAYS

“All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914,” stream-at-home production hosted by Playhouse on Park, through Jan. 3. Stream-at-home tickets are $20 per stream plus an additional $3 service charge.

Online orders are subject to an additional $1.50 processing fee. For information on streaming, or to purchase tickets, visit PlayhouseOnPark.org.

MUSIC

Online Organ Recital Series, on live video-stream via St. John's YouTube channel and St. John's Facebook page featuring organist, Kari Miller, Jan. 3, 12:30-1 p.m. Concert link: youtu.be/D0VcK9GaWEY reddoormusic.org/events. Free will donations accepted at reddoormusic.org/donate “Music and Protest” is a Musicians on the Frontlines series of free entirely virtual concerts, talks and community events that explore the ways music creates positive change, and how it is adapting to a new world, hosted by Autorino Center for the Arts at the University of Saint Joseph. Visit website for virtual programs. 860-498-3279, cuatropuntos.org

WESTON

OUTDOORS

Historic Outdoor Signage Installed, Weston Historical Society’s Coley Homestead, 104 Weston Road. Stroll the grounds and take a self-guided tour to explore the site’s history. Parking and site entrance is accessed from High Acre Road. Grounds are open everyday, dawn to dusk. Buildings remain closed to mitigate the spread of Covid-19. Dogs allowed. Social distancing and masks required. info@westonhistoricalsociety.org, 203-226-1804, westonhistoricalsociety.org.

WESTPORT

BOOKS

Westport Book Sale Ventures, Inc., the independent non-profit that operates the Westport Library Book Sales, is temporarily suspending receipt of book donations.

HOLIDAYS

“A Merry Little Christmas Carol,” audio play presented by Westport Country Playhouse, in partnership with WSHU Public Radio, available through Jan. 3 at westportplayhouse.org

SPECIALS

Winter Farmers’ Market, Gilbertie's Herb Gardens, 7 Sylvan Lane. Through March 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursdays only. westportfarmersmarket.com

VISUAL ARTS

“Artists in Residences,” hosted by Miggs Burroughs and Westport Library Exhibit Curator Carole Erger-Fass, includes twenty-four videos that provide an exclusive look inside the home studio of working Westport artists. westportlibrary.org “World Peace Exhibit,” MoCA Westport, 19 Newtown Tpke. Through Jan. 17. $10, $5 students/ educators, seniors (60+), free children 12 & under, Military Personnel and Healthcare Providers with ID. 203-572-2720, mocawestport.org “Vanishing Species Vanishing Murals,” outdoor gallery in downtown Westport. Murals on exterior walls visible to shoppers, diners, and visitors, and will depict a different endangered animal species. Locations: courtyard at Bedford Square; next to Jeera Thai on the back of Sconset Square; Post Road below Amy Simon Fine Art, and along the handicapped ramp at the front of Anthropologie. amykaplanartwork@gmail.com “Say the Word,” Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road. Exhibit on view through March 31 in the South Gallery near the main entrance. Online exhibit, “Westport’s Suffragists-Our Neighbors, Our Crusaders.” westportlibrary.org “Westport In Focus,” online exhibit collaboration between the Westport Museum for History & Culture and Westport photographer Jerri Graham. The exhibit on social media platforms allows Westporters to tell their own stories about living in the town considered “ground zero” for the coronavirus epidemic in the state.

WILTON

SPECIALS

Weir Farm National Historic Site, 735 Nod Hill Road. Access to grounds and parking lot to 50% capacity. Park hours 7 a.m.- 5 p.m. daily. Virtual online galleries of artwork created by impressionist J. Alden Weir and other Weir Farm artists still available. nps.gov/wefa

VISUAL ARTS

Wilton Historical Society’s online show, “Citizens at Last: Hannah Ambler, Grace Schenck and the Vote”on-line exhibit runs through Sept. 21, 2021. Works by Contemporary Artists of Modern Craft in celebration of the publication of their 50th catalog, Browngrotta Arts, 276 Ridgefield Road. browngrotta.com “Weir Farm Artist-in-Residence Reflections: Creating During the Pandemic,” video hosted by Weir Farm Art Alliance. Episodes resume in Jan. View all available episodes and connect with the

Weir Farm Art Alliance on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and website. weirfarmartalliance.org