New Milford Chamber of Commerce

Rising Stars Intro to Musical Theatre
2026-05-16 09:00 - 2026-06-06 12:00 (America/New_York) | Theater Works New Milford, 5 Brookside Ave, New Milford, CT, 06776
RISING STARS
Introduction to Musical Theatre

May 16th – June 6th, 2026 (4 weeks)
Sat. Mornings 9 AM – 12 PM & Tues. 4:30 – 6:30 PM
Showcase after class June 6th
Ages 5 to 8 – Tuition $375.00
Young students will learn theatre basics, and music and choreography.
This class is highly recommended before participating in other TW Kids’ programs.

Art Fair & Tag Sale
2026-05-16 10:00 - 18:00 | VCA – Village Center for the Arts, 12 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
Art Fair & Tag Sale
Saturday, May 16, from 10 AM to 6 PM
Village Center for the Arts
12 Main Street, New Milford, CT
(860) 354-4318
Join Us for an Exciting Art Fair and Tag Sale at Village Center for the Arts!
Get ready for a vibrant celebration of creativity!
We are thrilled to announce our upcoming Art Fair and Tag Sale, taking place on Saturday, May 16, from 10 AM to 6 PM.
This is a fantastic opportunity for art lovers, families, and community members to come together for a day filled with inspiration and fun! Our Tag Sale will have
Art Supplies Galore: Discover an array of supplies including brushes, paints, canvases, frames, easels, and much more at unbeatable prices!
Artist Village: Meet talented local artists and explore their works. Art Demos & Experiences: Engage in hands-on art demonstrations and interactive experiences suitable for all ages.
Live Music: Enjoy the sounds of local musicians while you shop and explore.
We will have face painting so bring the kids for some colorful fun!
Delicious Food Trucks: Savor a variety of tasty treats from our selection of food trucks.
Don’t miss out on this exciting event that celebrates art and community! Mark your calendars and bring your friends and family for a day of creativity and joy. For more information, please contact Village Center for the Arts at (860) 354-4318 or email us vca@villagecenterarts.com
We can’t wait to see you there!

Art Fair & Tag Sale
2026-05-16 10:00 - 18:00 | Village Center for the Arts, 12 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
MAY 16 Art Fair/Tag Sale
Art Fair & Tag Sale
Saturday, May 16, from 10 AM to 6 PM
Village Center for the Arts
12 Main Street, New Milford, CT
(860) 354-4318
Join Us for an Exciting Art Fair and Tag Sale at Village Center for the Arts!
Get ready for a vibrant celebration of creativity!
We are thrilled to announce our upcoming Art Fair and Tag Sale, taking place on Saturday, May 16, from 10 AM to 6 PM.
This is a fantastic opportunity for art lovers, families, and community members to come together for a day filled with inspiration and fun! Our Tag Sale will have
Art Supplies Galore: Discover an array of supplies including brushes, paints, canvases, frames, easels, and much more at unbeatable prices!
Artist Village: Meet talented local artists and explore their works. Art Demos & Experiences: Engage in hands-on art demonstrations and interactive experiences suitable for all ages.
Live Music: Enjoy the sounds of local musicians while you shop and explore.
We will have face painting so bring the kids for some colorful fun!
Delicious Food Trucks: Savor a variety of tasty treats from our selection of food trucks.
Don’t miss out on this exciting event that celebrates art and community! Mark your calendars and bring your friends and family for a day of creativity and joy. For more information, please contact Village Center for the Arts at (860) 354-4318 or email us vca@villagecenterarts.com
We can’t wait to see you there!

Youth Arts & Flavors Festival
2026-05-16 12:00 - 18:00 | The Silo, 44 Upland Road, New Milford, CT, 06776
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Cynthia Danial – Festival Director’s Assistant
Email: youthartsandflavorsfestival@gmail.com
Phone: 914-715-5276
Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584102148065&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr
Young Entrepreneurs and Local Artists to Shine at Youth Arts & Flavors Festival on May 16th
NEW MILFORD, CT – On Saturday, May 16th, 2026, the community is invited to celebrate the creativity and hustle of local youth at the Youth Arts & Flavors Festival. Hosted at the historic Silo at Hunt Hill Farm(44 Upland Rd), the event runs from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, offering a vibrant showcase of live entertainment, handmade arts, and local food.
The festival is designed to provide a platform for young entrepreneurs to display their talents and sell their wares. Attendees can expect a diverse array of booths featuring original artwork, crafts, and delicious culinary treats. The day’s festivities will conclude with a community bonfire (weather permitting), providing a perfect opportunity for neighbors to connect and celebrate.
“This festival is about more than just art; it’s about empowering the next generation of creators and business owners in New Milford,” says Allison Danial, a 16 yr old Young Social Entrepreneur and the Festival Director. “We want to invite everyone to come out, support these young entrepreneurs, and enjoy a great day at The Silo.”
Event Highlights:
• Live Entertainment: Performances by local youth musicians and artists.
• Artisans & Makers: Unique crafts and goods created by young entrepreneurs.
• Food Vendors: A variety of local flavors and snacks.
• Community Bonfire: A relaxing evening finale starting at 6:30pm.
Admission is free for all attendees and no vendor fee to participate. For more information or to sign up as a participant, please email for participant application, and please follow the event on Facebook.

Allison Danial
Festival Director

a Studio Affair
2026-05-16 18:30 - 22:00 | Village Center for the Arts, 12 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
a Studio Affair
Saturday, May 16th
6:30–10:00 PM
Ages 21+
Step away from your screen and into the studio. A Studio Affair is a chance to unplug, slow down, and reconnect with yourself, with others, and with the simple joy of creating.
As a nonprofit, we’re dedicated to offering adults a relaxed, welcoming space to unwind and explore the arts with no pressure, no expectations, and no experience required.
Whether you’re meeting new people, taking time to creative , or just craving a phone-free evening, this is time well spent. Creating art has a powerful way of calming the mind, boosting well-being, and helping you feel present and this night is all about that.
This is a great time to work on your junk journal – or that art project you haven’t
had time to finish. Bring a project you’re already working on!
We’ll be spinning vinyl to set the vibe, and it’s BYOB if you’d like to sip while you create.
a Studio Affair is a free community event
Held every 3rd Saturday of the month.
Village Center for the Arts is located at 12 Main Street, New Milford, CT (860) 354-4318
Invite a friend, spread the word, and give yourself a night to unplug and create.
villagecenterarts.org

a Studio Affair
2026-05-16 18:30 - 22:00 | Village Center for the Arts, 12 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
a Studio Affair
Saturday, May 16th
6:30–10:00 PM
Ages 21+
Step away from your screen and into the studio. A Studio Affair is a chance to unplug, slow down, and reconnect with yourself, with others, and with the simple joy of creating.
As a nonprofit, we’re dedicated to offering adults a relaxed, welcoming 3rd space to unwind and explore the arts with no pressure and no expectations.
Whether you’re meeting new people, taking time to creative, or just craving a phone-free evening, this is time well spent. Creating art has a powerful way of calming the mind, boosting well-being, and helping you feel present and this night is all about that.
This is a great time to work on your art journal – or that art project you haven’t
had time to finish. Bring a project you’re already working on!
We’ll be spinning vinyl to set the vibe, and it’s BYOB if you’d like to sip while you create.
a Studio Affair is a free community event
Held every 3rd Saturday of the month.
Village Center for the Arts is located at 12 Main Street, New Milford, CT
(860) 354-4318. villagecenterarts.org
Invite a friend, spread the word, and give yourself a night to unplug and create.

The Clams: “Soul of the 60's and 70's” A Review of Motown, R & B, & The Beatles
2026-05-16 19:00 - 21:00 | JCC in Sherman, 9 Route 39 South, Sherman, CT
The Clams will be re visiting the “Soul of the 60’s and 70’s” celebrating the best of Motown and classic R & B. And yes, the Beatles, “Abbey Road Medley”.With special guests: Bobbi O’Connor and local legend Mike Rizzuto on Bari Saxophone!

Litchfield County in the American Revolution
2026-05-17 14:00 - 15:30 | New Milford Historical Society, 6 Aspetuck Ave, New Milford, CT, 06776
Author, educator, and historian Peter Vermilyea will discuss his new
book, “Litchfield County in the American Revolution” and how liberty,
sacrifice, and resilience in a small corner of New England helped shape
the destiny of a new nation.

TheatreWorks New Milford Presents King Lear
2026-05-17 14:00 - 16:00 | Theater Works New Milford, 5 Brookside Ave, New Milford, CT, 06776
Experience a powerful, fast-moving adaption of King Lear – a story of family, power, betrayal, and madness that feels more like modern drama than classic “Shakespeare.” The reviews are in! This is a “must-see”!
The original HBO “Succession” storyline about the aging head of the family and what to do with three children that want the kingdom. All adapted to a dynamic 90-minute play with “sword” action.
Come to see top-notch presentations from our local cast including Mark Feltch (Newtown) who stars as King Lear, with New Milford’s Vicki Sosbe (Goneril), Erin Shaughnessy (Regan), and Abi Heydenburg (Cordelia) as his daughters. The full cast of 19 talented actors from across the state of Connecticut, include Sam Everett (Danbury), Colin McLoone (Brookfield), Jim Hipp (Sherman), Vincent Christoni (Trumbull), Tom Heydenburg (New Milford), Sean Gorman (Bethel), Todd Santa Maria (Cheshire), Michael Briney (Naugatuck), Thomas Ovitt (New Preston), David Regelmann (Bethel), Tim Heydenburg and Isabelle Bergman (New Milford), Ron Malszka (Bridgewater), Fred Thaler (Cornwall) and Billy Anderson (Bethel). Jane Farnol, Gaylordsville resident and author of “Shakespeare for Contemporary Theatre”, directs this streamlined adaptation that emphasizes action while preserving Shakespeare’s language.

May Business Scene
2026-05-21 17:30 - 19:30 | CT
Join us and other business professionals to connect and network at this informal networking opportunity co-sponsored this month by Prospect Hill Advisors and Housatonic Business Alliance. To be held at Lucia Ristorante, 51 Bank St., New Milford.

* Free and open to the public* Bring your business cards* Bring a friend/colleague* Food and beverages

American History and Presidents Trivia
2026-05-21 18:00 - 19:30 | New Milford Public Library, 24 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
Celebrate 250 Years of Independence with a fun-filled TRIVIA Program that looks at American history, beginning with our Founding Fathers and the Revolutionary War, to great Presidents, the movements and important laws that shaped our nation. Not to mention the many heroic people who came before us… Not only for the history lover, this trivia will include some pop culture, too. Fun for all! Test your knowledge and enjoy a great evening out.

The Sherman School Jazz Band
2026-05-22 18:00 - 19:00 | JCC in Sherman, 9 Route 39 South, Sherman, CT
FREE | Donations Appreciated!

Featuring students, faculty and alumni from the Sherman School’s Jazz program! Don’t miss out on the jazziest night of the year!

Mah Jongg
2026-05-27 13:00 - 15:00, 2026-06-10 13:00 - 15:00 | New Milford Public Library, 24 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
Come and learn how to play this fun game! Bring your friends! Beginners are welcome.

Make Your Own Tin Lantern
2026-05-28 17:30 - 19:30 | New Milford Public Library, 24 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
Join Jody for this crafting program in which you’ll make a tin can lantern. A fun way to recycle cans! Attendees will need to bring their own hammer.

The Chase (Live Music)
2026-05-30 19:00 - 21:00 | JCC in Sherman, 9 Route 39 South, Sherman, CT
The Chase Returns to the JCC in Sherman with High-Energy Night of Crowd Favorites on May 30th!
SHERMAN, CT – Get ready for another unforgettable night of live music as The Chase, Fairfield County’s premier five-piece band, returns to the JCC in Sherman on Saturday, May 30, at 7 PM.
Known for their unique take on rock, folk, and soft rock classics, The Chase is showcasing a dynamic set featuring timeless favorites, along with some original songs from their debut album Range.
With a lineup of experienced musicians and powerful vocal harmonies, The Chase is celebrated for their meticulous attention to detail and their ability to bring high-energy performances to every show. Audiences can expect to hear beloved yet rarely performed classics from Simon & Garfunkel, Fleetwood Mac, Billy Joel, Coldplay, Dave Matthews Band, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Linda Ronstadt, Dire Straits, The Beatles, Supertramp, Collective Soul, and more.
Meet The Chase:
● Ryan Weber (vocals, guitar, bass) – Connecticut native and seasoned singer-songwriter with a knack for blending rock and pop influences.
● Rob Stagno (electric & acoustic guitar, mandolin, vocals) – A versatile musician with over 20 years of experience spanning multiple styles, from gypsy jazz to intricate acoustic arrangements. His musicality and technical skill bring a unique depth to The Chase’s sound.
● Kevin Bailie (piano, keyboards, vocals) – A veteran cover band performer and classic rock aficionado with a love for Billy Joel.
● Susan Siegel (vocals) – A powerhouse singer with a rich history in musical theatre, symphony performances, and cabaret shows.
● Andrew Neil (drums) – A dynamic drummer with over two decades of experience across multiple genres, bringing energy and precision to every performance.
This return performance at the JCC in Sherman is a must-see event for local music lovers. Whether you come to hear your favorite classics brought to life or to catch a few originals, The Chase promises a night of exceptional musicianship, engaging performances, and plenty of great music.

Ukulele Club
2026-06-02 17:30 - 18:30 | New Milford Public Library, 24 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
Join this club to learn the ukulele and to improve your skills. Playing the ukulele with others is loads of fun! A collaboration between NMPL and NM Senior Center. If you are over 60 and need a ride to the library, please call 860-355-6075.

Funky Fruits Still Life
2026-06-04 18:00 - 19:30 | New Milford Public Library, 24 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
Bring fruit of your choice or pick some out at the class in this still life workshop. Learn about composition, drawing skills, painting techniques and more as you create a painted still life in your own style.

The Poetry Showcase: Season of Becoming
2026-06-05 19:00 - 21:00 | JCC in Sherman, 9 Route 39 South, Sherman, CT
A night to both listen to and share poetry relating to the seasons of becoming – Spring & Summer!
Featured Poets

Cindy Davis
Sam Cross
Sandy Carlson
Amber Vlangas
Mike Pugh

Featured Musicians

Bernie Kaplan
Jeremy Stone
Christopher Louis
Dan Lyon

Event Details

Featured Poet Readings with Live Musical Accompaniment
Open Mic Poetry
Light Refreshments | BYOB Venue

Gallery Opening
2026-06-06 17:30 - 20:00 | Village Center for the Arts, 12 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
“2026 VCA National K-12 Ceramic Exhibition Candidates”
Opening Reception: June 6, 6:30–8:00 PM
The National K–12 Ceramic Exhibition, presented in conjunction with the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (NCECA) Conference, has showcased some of the most exceptional young ceramic artists from across the United States.
Village Center for the Arts, (VCA), chooses artwork created during the year by our students that are exceptionally successful and unique works of art, a select few are chosen through a competitive juried process.
At VCA, that journey begins long before submission. Throughout the year, students dedicate hours of focus, experimentation, and persistence to develop pieces that reflect both technical skill and personal expression. From these, VCA selects a group of standout works to be submitted for national consideration.
While only a small number of pieces are ultimately accepted, every student selected for submission has already achieved something meaningful.
This special exhibition celebrates the creativity, commitment, and courage of all our VCA students whose work was chosen. We recognize not just the students that were juried into the exhibition but the students who’s work was chosen from hundreds of pieces of ceramic artwork that was created at VCA over the year.
“What people see in a finished piece is only part of the story,” says Sharon Kaufman, VCA’s pottery teacher. “Behind every work is time, persistence, and the willingness to keep going through trial and tribulation. We’re proud of every student who reached this level”.
This is a free event. refreshments will be served.
June 6, 6:30–8:00 PM
Exhibition Dates: June 7–27, 2026
https://www.villagecenterarts.org/eventscalendar

A Bob Dylan Retrospective | Live Music with The Hambones
2026-06-07 19:00 - 21:00 | JCC in Sherman, 9 Route 39 South, Sherman, CT
Join us for a special tribute concert to music legend Bob Dylan!
The Hambones
For the past 15 years, we’ve been on a musical journey, captivating audiences with our diverse styles. Our extensive range of songs spans across Country, Americana, R&B, Pop, and Classic Rock, ensuring there’s something for everyone in our performances. We take pride in offering unique experiences through our specialty shows. Whether it’s bringing the lively spirit of Irish music to festivals or dedicating an entire evening to the timeless songs of Bob Dylan, our goal is to create memorable moments for our listeners. Our dedication to music extends beyond live performances. We’ve released three albums of original work, each reflecting our passion and creativity. At The Hambones, our mission is simple: to deliver an unforgettable experience filled with great music, a touch of nostalgia, and perhaps even some new favorite songs. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new listener, we can’t wait to share our music with you!
The Poet Who Inspired Us
Bob Dylan’s music has inspired countless artists around the world. But for The Hambones, Dylan’s profound influence runs deep. Known for their exceptional tribute performances, The Hambones take audiences on a musical journey through Dylan’s storied career, showcasing the timeless essence of his music with a unique spin. From his folk roots to his electric innovations, the band brings new life to classic songs in a way only they can!

Sensory-Friendly Social Time for Special Needs Adults
2026-06-08 11:00 - 12:30 | New Milford Public Library, 24 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
Come join this social group for special needs adults and their caregivers. We’ll have fun crafting and more! Caregivers are welcome!

Gentle Yoga
2026-06-08 13:30 - 14:30 | New Milford Public Library, 24 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
Robert Meko teaches with an emphasis on breathwork, meditation, and turning inward to observe mental, physical, and spiritual states without judgement. It is his goal to teach, promote, and support safe, sustainable, and deeply transformational yoga practices.

Thomas A. Edison: A Life of Invention!
2026-06-12 18:00 - 19:00 | New Milford Public Library, 24 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
Join Edward Sierra for an engaging and informative presentation on the life and work of the “Wizard of Menlo Park.” Born in 1847 in Ohio, Edison was a husband, a father, and arguably the most prolific inventor in American history. He held 1,093 U.S. patents, including for the light bulb, the phonograph, the motion picture camera, and a battery for an electric car.

Tal Naccarato LIVE! / 'Unplugged'
2026-06-12 19:00 - 21:00 | JCC in Sherman, 9 Route 39 South, Sherman, CT
Join us for a solo acoustic performance from NYC musician Tal Naccarato! New to the JCCS but certainly not to the world of music, Tal is sure to impress you at this live music event!
Guitarist / Songwriter / Instrumentalist in the Americana / Folk- Blues tradition performs Solo Acoustic from his original and traditional repertoire and discusses and demonstrates the history of this particular musical genre while exhibiting, performing on and displaying rare vintage period instruments during the course of a live musical concert.
About the Artist
Tal Naccarato is a dynamic composer, songwriter and teacher artist whose roots stretch from the medieval mountain village of Fiumefreddo Bruzio, Italy, to the heart of East Flatbush, Brooklyn. His original music fuses Folk, Americana, Rock, and Blues with classical guitar flair and a signature bluesy swing. In 2023, Tal took home top honors at the Long Island Blues Society Solo/Duo Competition. Tal performs solo acoustic from his original and traditional repertoire. Everyone is welcome

Sound Meditation
2026-06-13 10:30 - 11:30 | New Milford Public Library, 24 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
Jeanine Chayka will soothe your soul with the calming and vibrational sounds of her instruments. This technique helps with sleeping and chronic pain, while increasing creativity and energy.

The Liberty Bell - Symbol of American Freedom
2026-06-13 13:00 - 14:00 | New Milford Public Library, 24 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
In the early days of America, bells served as vital communication tools for communities, ringing
out for significant events like fires, funerals, and festivals. The Liberty Bell, cast in England,
weighing over a ton, was brought to Philadelphia in 1752. Despite its initial lackluster sound and
devastating crack during its initial assessment, the determined colonists melted it down and
recast it multiple times.
During the Revolution, the bell was cleverly hidden from the British and narrowly escaped being
sold for scrap. A visionary recognized its monumental significance and rescued it, transforming
the Liberty Bell into a cherished national treasure. Today, it stands proudly among the six most
iconic symbols of America. John Cilio explores the historical accounts that have made the
Liberty Bell an enduring emblem of American tradition, reminding us of the resilience and spirit
that define our nation.
Speaker Bio: John Cilio
John Cilio is an engaging historical storyteller, author, and researcher who has captivated
audiences with his tales of the past for over 15 years. He is an active member of the
Organization of American Historians, the Association for the Study of Connecticut History, and
the Connecticut League of Museums. He has shared his knowledge through numerous articles
in national magazines and newspapers and continues to inspire and educate with his
captivating storytelling and in-depth research. Get ready to be transported through time and
experience history through period stories and vintage photographs.

1776 Dinner
2026-06-13 17:00 - 19:00 | CT
A true 1776 dinner of chicken ‘n biscuits, apple pandowdy, and more; 1776 crafts.

Film Showing: Four Winters (Documentary)
2026-06-14 19:00 - 21:00 | JCC in Sherman, 9 Route 39 South, Sherman, CT
Join us for a showing of the film “Four Winters.” This film by Julia Mintz outlines the story of Jewish partisan resistance and bravery during WWII. A must see film for all!
Suggested Donation at the Door | $10
__________________________________
FILM SYNOPSIS
“All I owned was my camera, a leopard coat, and a grenade in case of capture…the pillow was the rifle, the walls were the trees and the sky was the roof,” says partisan Faye Schulman. Over 25,000 Jewish partisans fought back against the Nazis and their collaborators from deep within the forests of WWII’s Eastern Europe, Ukraine and Belarus. Against extraordinary odds, they escaped Nazi slaughter, transforming from young innocents to courageous resistance fighters. Shattering the myth of Jewish passivity, these last surviving partisans tell their stories of resistance in FOUR WINTERS, revealing a stunning narrative of heroism and resilience.
FOURWINTERSFILM.COM
FOUR WINTERS TRAILER:
https://fourwintersfilm.com/trailer
__________________________________
NEW YORK TIMES – Nicholas Rapold
“…AN ENDURING WARNING AMID TODAY’S GLOBAL STRUGGLE WITH AUTHORITARIAN FORCES.”
JEFFREY LYONS – Film Critic
“EASILY ONE OF THE BEST FILMS OF THE YEAR”
TABLET MAGAZINE – Marjorie Ingall
“A MUST-SEE HOLOCAUST MOVIE (NO, REALLY)…‘FOUR WINTERS’ is a documentary with suspense, humor, and zero sentimentality…”
Ms. MAGAZINE – Carrie Baker
“…FROM EMPATHY TO AWE… poignant, deeply reflective, and sometimes shockingly funny…”

Art Therapy Support Groups
2026-06-17 18:30 - 19:30 | VCA – Village Center for the Arts, 12 Main Street, New Milford, CT, 06776
Art Therapy Support Groups
We are honored to introduce two new ongoing Art Therapy Groups at Village Center for the Arts, For adults 18+
Led by Jessica LaBarca, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, these professionally facilitated groups are designed for adults seeking support while navigating chronic illness or grief.
Art therapy offers a structured and supportive space to explore emotion, strengthen coping tools, and connect with others who understand similar experiences. No art experience is required.
Creating Through Chronic Illness
This is an ongoing group on the 3rd Wednesday | 6:30–7:30 PM
Holding Space for Grief
This is an ongoing group on the 4th Wednesday | 6:30–7:30 PM
Sessions are $50 each. A brief consultation is required prior to joining.
To inquire, email arttherapywithjess@gmail.com.
Receipts for insurance reimbursement available upon request.
These groups meet in person at the Village Center for the Arts. Our building includes a chair lift.
We believe in the power of creativity to help us process, connect, and care for ourselves — especially during life’s more complex seasons.
Call VCA if you need more info (860) 354-4318
https://www.villagecenterarts.org/eventscalendar
