Share the news!

Stamford Museum & Nature Center’s annual First County Bank Maple Sugar Fest Sundays begin in February.

The Stamford Museum & Nature Center is proud to announce the 2024 dates for its annual series of First County Bank Maple Sugar Fest Sundays. All are invited to celebrate the maple sugaring season at the SM&NC on three consecutive Sundays this winter: February 25 and March 3 & 10.


Grounds will open at 10 am with added attractions, enhanced programming, and family-geared seasonal offerings until 2 pm. Standard admission rates apply after 2 pm. Online pre-registration is encouraged at www.stamfordmuseum.org/fcbfest.

Sponsored annually by First County Bank, the SM&NC’s Maple Sugar Fest Sundays feature a wide variety of activities including traditional favorites like maple sugaring demonstrations, tree tapping information, Lego building, face painting, live farm animal interactions and free popcorn, as well as a sock skating rink, children’s game zone, toddler play space, food trucks, and a pop-up Farm Market featuring SM&NC’s very own line of maple syrup.


This year, each Sunday will also feature a special attraction exclusive to that Fest date. The first Fest will kick off the festivities with a Character Brunch featuring Mickey and Minnie Mouse on February 25th, Frozen's Olaf will visit Heckscher Farm on March 3rd, and the Connecticut Valley Siberian Husky Club will have several Siberian Huskies on-site to meet, greet, and perform sledding demonstrations on March 10th.


“We look forward to supporting the Maple Sugar Fest Sundays again this year,” expressed Robert Granata, Chairman & CEO of First County Bank. “We take great pride in our ongoing commitment to organizations like the Stamford Museum & Nature Center, supporting family fun activities and enrichment programs.”


“We invite the public to join us as we make our very own line of syrup from the sap of the mature maple trees found right here on our wondrous 118-acre campus,” added Melissa H. Mulrooney, CEO of the SM&NC. “With our on-site Sugar House + Cidery, the Stamford Museum & Nature Center is one of only two official maple syrup producers in Fairfield County.”


The cost of admission each Fest Sunday is all-inclusive, bundling all festival fun into a single daily price: $12 per person for SM&NC Members with free entry options for higher tier Membership levels, or $22 per person for Non-Members of all ages. Children ages 2 and under may attend for free. For Character Brunch pricing, please visit the event website. Attendees who join the SM&NC through Membership on a fest day are refunded the cost of their ticket according to Membership level. Day-of walk-ins may be admitted as capacity permits at a higher admission rate, although not guaranteed. All fests will be held rain or shine. Pre-register online to secure your spot to celebrate the sweetness of the maple sugaring season by visiting www.stamfordmuseum.org/fcbfest.



Getting there

Stamford Museum & Nature Center utilizes both of its parking lots for Family Fest Sundays. The primary event lot is located at SM&NC’s upper Farmhouse entrance at 151 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford CT, ¼ mile up the road from its 39 Scofieldtown Road entrance. The SM&NC is located 3/4-mile North of the Merritt Parkway Exit 35. For more information call 203.977.6521 or visit www.stamfordmuseum.org.

The Stamford Museum & Nature Center is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of art, the natural and agricultural sciences, and history. The Museum is a vital cultural and educational resource for the community, and a focal point for family activity and interaction, seeking to inspire creativity, foster self-discovery, and nurture an appreciation for lifelong learning through exhibitions, educational programs, and special events that enhance each visitor’s experience.

Stamford Museum & Nature Center’s annual First County Bank Maple Sugar Fest Sundays begin in February.
Chris Rowlands Returns to Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo for a Wild Memorial Day Weekend .
By Rowena White May 13, 2025
Bridgeport, CT – Get ready to sing, dance, and roar along as Chris Rowlands, the beloved musical performer and environmental educator, returns to Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo this Memorial Day Weekend (May 24th-26th)! With three performances daily at 10:00am, 1:00pm, and 3:00pm, guests will be treated to an unforgettable blend of music, puppetry, and conservation education – all free with Zoo admission. Chris will bring animals to life through catchy original songs, colorful puppets, and interactive storytelling that gets the whole family involved. Children are invited to wear fun animal hats and join him on stage, singing along to tunes that both wildly entertain and educate. Rowlands has even composed exclusive songs just for Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo! The songs feature beloved zoo animal ambassadors, with special nods to this year’s newest arrivals, and the Zoo’s continued commitment to animal enrichment and conservation. Attending any one of Chris Rowlands Shows is free with admission, for more information and tickets visit https://www.beardsleyzoo.org/tickets.html.
Laughs for Grown-Ups, Joy for Kids: A Perfect Weekend at Edmond Town Hall!
By Cathy Ithier May 13, 2025
Big Laughs and Family Fun at Edmond Town Hall: Michael Kosta and Vanessa Trien Headline May 16–18 Weekend Newtown, CT – Edmond Town Hall is the place to be this May as two incredible acts bring both big laughs and family-friendly music to the historic venue. On Friday, May 16 , comedian Michael Kosta hits the stage with his sharp wit and signature style on The Lucky Loser Tour . Then on Sunday, May 18 , it's fun for all ages with Vanessa Trien and The Jumping Monkeys , a high-energy, interactive musical experience perfect for kids and families. Best known as a correspondent on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah , Michael Kosta is a veteran stand-up comedian whose insightful humor and deadpan delivery have earned him spots on The Tonight Show , Conan , and Comedy Central. With his “Lucky Loser” perspective on modern life, Kosta’s live performance is equal parts hilarious and thought-provoking—an ideal night out for fans of smart comedy. Vanessa Trien and The Jumping Monkeys bring joy and movement to every performance. Based in Boston, this award-winning band has become a favorite among families throughout New England. Their upbeat songs and infectious enthusiasm get kids singing, dancing, and jumping along—while parents enjoy the musical talent and heart behind it all. Whether you're in the mood for side-splitting comedy or heartwarming family fun, Edmond Town Hall delivers entertainment for everyone this weekend. TICKETS are available now at edmondtownhall.org.
By Cathy Ithier May 12, 2025
Laugh, Listen, and Celebrate at SoNo 1420 This Weekend SoNo 1420 America’s Maritime Distillery, is the place to be this weekend with a triple treat of live music, stand-up comedy, and party-perfect vibes. 🎸 Friday, May 16 – Acoustic Sono with Carlos Miller Kick off the weekend with soul, charm, and acoustic excellence as Carlos Miller takes the stage for this week’s installment of the Acoustic Sono Music Series. A Connecticut favorite, Carlos captivates with his smooth vocals, intricate guitar work, and magnetic presence. Whether performing solo or with The Last Hoorah, his sound is heartfelt, energetic, and unforgettable. Come for the music—stay for the cocktails and the welcoming, intimate vibe that only SoNo 1420 can deliver. 😂 Saturday, May 17 – Hard Headed Comedy Night On Saturday night, SoNo 1420 transforms into a comedy lounge as Hard Headed Comedy brings the laughs with a powerhouse lineup of diverse, high-energy performers. 🎤 This week's featured comedians: Kendra Cunningham – Comedy Central standout with razor-sharp wit. Michael Brigante – Bronx-born storyteller with a punch. Alyce Chan – TikTok sensation and the comedic voice of parents everywhere. Luz Michelle – Founder of Hard Headed Comedy, fearless and funny. From parenting fails to cultural quirks, this is comedy that hits home—and hard. Add expertly crafted cocktails and the cozy charm of a distillery setting, and you’ve got a night to remember. 🎟️ Reserve your seat now: https://bit.ly/hardheaded1420 🥃 Host Your Next Party or Event at SoNo 1420 Looking for a unique venue with character, craft cocktails, and flexible event options? Whether you're planning a corporate outing, private party, or team-building night, SoNo 1420 Distillery delivers an upscale, unforgettable experience right in the heart of South Norwalk. Capacity: Up to 45 for meetings, 100 for casual events Drinks: Signature SoNo 1420 spirits, Spacecat Brewery beer, and BYO wine Food: Simple charcuterie options or bring in your favorite caterer Add-ons: Custom whiskey bottles, tours & tastings Let the SONO 1420 team help you create an event that’s anything but ordinary.
An Unforgettable Night of Indie Brilliance: The Moonrise Cartel Returns to Park City Music Hall
By Cathy Ithier May 12, 2025
The countdown is on! With just 10 days to go , don’t miss your chance to see indie sensation The Moonrise Cartel live at Park City Music Hall on Thursday, May 22 at 8 PM . This one-night-only show is quickly approaching—and tickets are moving fast. If you've been waiting to grab yours, now’s the time . Known for their hauntingly beautiful songwriting, soaring vocals, and unforgettable live performances, The Moonrise Cartel is drawing serious buzz. Their latest release Set To Stun has racked up over 75,000 streams , and their past shows have left audiences—and fellow musicians—completely blown away. 🎟️ This is your chance to catch them up close, in an intimate venue before they hit bigger stages. Don’t wait—get your tickets today before they’re gone! Park City Music Hall offers the ultimate concert experience with top-tier sound and lighting, a vibrant atmosphere, and a full bar. It’s the perfect place to experience The Moonrise Cartel’s powerful sound in a space where every seat  feels front row.
By Cathy Ithier May 12, 2025
Get ready for another exciting summer of Trivia Night in Stamford! Stamford Downtown and Best Trivia Ever are teaming up once again to bring brainy fun to Veterans Memorial Park. 📅 Dates: Thursdays – May 15, May 29, June 12, June 26, July 10, July 24, August 7, August 21, September 4 🕡 Time: 6:30 PM 📍 Location: Veterans Memorial Park, 130 Atlantic Street, Stamford, CT Bring your crew, flex your trivia skills, and compete for awesome prizes! From pop culture and sports to history, movies, and more—expect questions you’ll actually enjoy answering. No preregistration required. Just show up a few minutes early, grab a spot, and get ready to play. BYO food and drinks —picnic style!
New York Comedy Club Stamford Launches First-Ever Stand-Up Comedy Workshop.
By Cathy Ithier May 7, 2025
Have you ever watched a stand-up set and thought, “I could do that”? Whether you’ve got a secret stash of one-liners or just want to challenge yourself in a new and exciting way, now’s your chance to take the mic. New York Comedy Club Stamford is launching its first-ever stand-up comedy workshop, designed for aspiring comedians and anyone curious about the craft of comedy. This hands-on experience will cover the essentials of writing, timing, delivery, and how to own the stage—all taught by industry pros in a supportive, fun environment. 
More Posts