Event Types: Community

Ridgefield is celebrating a golden environmental anniversary this year and a new exhibit highlights the decades-long effort to promote recycling.

Two days before Earth Day, on April 20, 1974, Ridgefield celebrated the official opening of the Ridgefield Recycling Center, one of the first such municipal facilities in the state. Townspeople were early and enthusiastic adopters of recycling: regular collections of recyclable materials had begun several years before the center opened. A 1972 event, The Dump Ball, brought townspeople together to support the creation of a permanent center for recycling.

The Ridgefield Historical Society, Housatonic Resources Recovery Authority and the Town of Ridgefield have created an exhibit in Town Hall opening in February that highlights recycling efforts here over the past 50 years. Visit the exhibit Monday through Friday from 8:30am-4:30pm through April 30, 2024 in the entrance lobby at Ridgefield Town Hall. Throughout April there will be special promotions by the town on ways to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

Cris Nichols has been a resident of Ridgefield, CT for 30 years. Her chosen creative outlet started with quilting until she found that glasswork was as rewarding as fabric and thread. Today, Cris works in her home studio transforming glass into pieces of art inspired by nature and incorporating people and animals. She has created commissioned work as well as stained glass that is for sale.

Cris’s work will be exhibited in the Ridgefield Library’s Morris Building through April 26th. We invite you to drop by during regular Library hours to enjoy it.  

Learn more

“Making Monotypes: The Painterly Print” is a new group show at the Ridgefield Library featuring original monotypes by six artists: Scott Bricher (pictured here), Barbara Cover, Joan Macfarlane, Roberta Shea, Mary Terrizzi and Nancy Zarider. Each of these artists has studied with Master Printer Anthony Kirk. The exhibition is on view in the Lower Level Art Gallery through April 29, during regular Library hours.

There will be an artists’ reception on Saturday afternoon, April 6th from 2-4 pm. Join us to meet and greet the artists and enjoy light refreshments!

A monotype is the most painterly method among printmaking techniques. Throughout history, painters have often used monotypes for their preparatory sketches due to their immediacy, mark quality, colorful inks, range of papers and range of values. Because the monotype process is more spontaneous and technically less demanding than traditional printing processes, artists can experiment with new and creative forms on paper.

The Youth Leadership Initiative is a program designed to help teenagers become future Global Leaders

The Youth Leadership Initiative for rising 12th graders from Ridgefield or Danbury

• Are you a rising 12th grader from Ridgefield or Danbury?
• Are you ready to tap into your power as a change leader?
• To collaborate across diverse communities?
• To shape a future in which people and planet can flourish?

When: July 8 – 26, 2024 from 9 am – 3 pm (Monday – Friday)
What is the Cost? This program is free!
The Youth Leadership Initiative is sponsored by the State of Connecticut.

Application Process: Due 5/15; announcement of cohort by 5/30.

Learn more

Ridgefield Running Company’s Saturday Shop Runs: Happening every week, with options for everyone. We will not have pace leaders (unless posted), and all paces are welcome.

Start times:
~7 AM Main Run (Note: Course will not be marked.)
~7:15 AM Guided Interval Run*

*The Guided Interval Run is a workout guided by a representative from RRC, featuring walk-run intervals. Perfect for beginners and those coming back from injury. Note this run may not always follow the posted route, but this is a no-drop workout (no one is left behind).

*Please try to limit restroom use or use the restrooms at Ballard Park. We have an old building with old infrastructure that can’t handle the volume of a ton of runners using it back-to-back.

Learn more

Rid Litter Days

Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28

If everyone helped for 15 minutes, what a difference it would make.

Take Pride – Town Wide!

Pick Up Supplies at:

• Ridgefield Bicycle Company, 88 Danbury Road
• Ridgefield Rec Center, 195 Danbury Road
• Town Hall Information Office, 400 Main Street

(Supplies; safety vests, trash bags, blue bags for recycling cans & plastic bottles)

Drop off points for filled refuse bags on April 27 & 28 only:

• Branchville Elementary School, 40 Florida Road
• East Ridge Middle School, 10 East Ridge
• Farmingville Elementary, 324 Farmingville Road
• Ridgebury Elementary, 112 Bennetts Farm Road
• Ridgefield High School, 700 North Salem Road

For more information or questions, call/text Barb Hartman: 203-858-6792

Co-sponsored by the Caudatowa Garden Club and Town of Ridgefield

with support from Ridgefield Bicycle Co. and Ridgefield Hardware Store

Download flyer from Community Events Calendar at www.ridgefieldct.org/community/events

Families with children of all ages are invited to the Ridgefield Library on Saturday, April 27th at 10:30 AM to dance and sing along with Robert the Guitar Guy!

This musical program features traditional favorites and contemporary songs.

Join us!  Please register.

Saturday, April 27th @ 10:30, 11, 11:30 and 12

Experience the American Revolution by taking a tour down Main Street and meet costumed interpreters who will bring history to life and share their tales from the Battle of Ridgefield on April 27, 1777! On Saturday, April 27, 2024 the Ridgefield Historical Society will host one hour long walking tours at 10:30am, 11:00am, 11:30am, and 12:00pm to commemorate the 247th Anniversary of the Battle of Ridgefield. This was the only inland engagement of the Revolutionary War fought in Connecticut and we will commemorate the courage of a vastly outnumbered Patriot force led by Generals David Wooster, Benedict Arnold, and Gold Selleck Silliman, who confronted a force of 2,000 British troops that had burned Danbury.

Get tickets

Connecticut is experiencing a waste crisis. More waste is generated than we have the capacity to manage. What’s happening to all that waste? What is the town of Ridgefield doing to be part of the solution?

Come to the Ridgefield Library on Saturday, April 27th at 2:00 PM and learn where your trash really goes – and how to Take The Challenge to reduce your waste and save money!

Jennifer Heaton-Jones, the Executive Director of the regional governmental solid waste and recycling authority, HRRA, will present at this family-friendly program. There will be plenty of time for Q & A.

So come on out to the Ridgefield Library, and let’s talk trash!  Please register.

Have you always wanted to learn to play mahjong/mah-jongg?

This April, for four Sunday afternoons 1:00-4:30 PM, Antonio Villanueva will conduct free lessons at the Ridgefield Library on how to play this table game that involves skill, strategy and luck. Previous knowledge of American Mahjong is a plus but not necessary.  The dates are Sunday, April 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th. Please register to attend, as space is limited.  Most people will just need one session to have a good understanding of the game.

Mah-Jongg is a tile-based game that was developed in the 19th century in China and has spread throughout the world since the early 20th century. The game and its regional variants are widely played throughout East and Southeast Asia and have also become popular in Western countries. Asia Pacific Rummy Mahjong is a variation that is played and influenced by Illonggos in the Philippines, the Taiwanese in Berkeley, and the British in Singapore among others in the Pacific Rim region.

Join us at the Ridgefield Library on Sunday, April 28th at 2:00 PM to hear Sabrina Marsalisi, Director of Education at The Brant Foundation Art Study Center, discuss the topic of contemporary art at The Brant Foundation.  Sabrina will provide an overview of the history, mission and vision of the Foundation, as well as give an update on current exhibitions.

Founded by avid art collector, philanthropist and entrepreneur Peter M. Brant in 2009, The Brant Foundation Art Study Center promotes an appreciation and understanding of contemporary art and design by making artworks and objects accessible to a wide range of audiences through programs, exhibitions, tours and special events. The Foundation also makes contemporary art available for scholarly study, examination and loans.

Please register.

Join us for a fun Family friendly event – a scavenger hunt at The Meetinghouse on Sunday, April 28th from 2:00-4:00pm.

Enjoy cider and cookies afterward! This event is free.

Learn more

In this class, we will continue where we left off in the first art journaling class. If you have taken Art Journaling for Beginners, or have some experience with mixed media, this course is for you. I will introduce a new technique, tool, or topic in each class, including color and composition.

The idea of Art Journaling is always the same. This is for you. Our main goal is to have fun while learning how far we can go with mixed-media art.

Art Journaling is a wonderful way to explore artistic practice, try new techniques, and get your thoughts and feelings on paper through art. Of course, no words are necessary unless you want to write. Like any journal, this is just for you.

Questions? Please email Holli Levy at hollilevy@gmail.com.

Learn more

As human and environmental health come under a litany of new pressures, our gardens can become sanctuaries. Working at the intersection of nature and culture, gardeners have a unique opportunity to impact biodiversity and help make landscapes more resilient and less dependent on harmful inputs. But first, a shift in perspective is necessary.

In a discussion ranging from historic hedges to wooded wilderness, Toshi Yano, the Director at the Perfect Earth Project, will draw on his experiences as Director of Horticulture at Wethersfield Estate & Garden, as well as his experiences gardening at Stonecrop Gardens and private estates, to discuss the challenges facing our landscapes and some exciting new ideas for stewarding them into the future.

Join us at the Ridgefield Library on Tuesday, April 30th from 10:00 AM to hear Toshi speak.  Please register.  

Join us at the Ridgefield Library on Tuesday, April 30th at 7:00 PM as we welcome author Mark Robinson.  Please register.

Mark’s second book, Black On Madison Avenue, is part deeply personal memoir and part explosive history of what he calls “America’s most un-diverse white collar profession.” Since its release in July 2023, the book has been the recipient of a remarkable 6 literary book awards. Mark is a past member of the Multicultural Marketing Leadership Council, a national touring lecturer and an ongoing mentor for the American Association of Advertising Agencies.

Books on the Common will have copies available for purchase and signing.

Join Western CT Coalition for an immersive training that equips you with life-saving skills to prevent suicide and become a Merchant of Hope.

In this training, you will learn to:

• Recognize warning signs of suicide;
• Use the ‘Question, Persuade, Refer’ (QPR) approach to connect individuals to help; and
• Become a beacon of hope for others.

Register is required. For more information, contact Kathy Hanley at KHanley@wctcoalition.org or Abby Maldonado at AMaldonado@wctcoalition.org.

RSVP HERE

The Youth Leadership Initiative is a program designed to help teenagers become future Global Leaders

The Youth Leadership Initiative for rising 12th graders from Ridgefield or Danbury

• Are you a rising 12th grader from Ridgefield or Danbury?
• Are you ready to tap into your power as a change leader?
• To collaborate across diverse communities?
• To shape a future in which people and planet can flourish?

When: July 8 – 26, 2024 from 9 am – 3 pm (Monday – Friday)
What is the Cost? This program is free!
The Youth Leadership Initiative is sponsored by the State of Connecticut.

Application Process: Due 5/15; announcement of cohort by 5/30.

Learn more

Teens, relax with friends on Friday afternoons at the Ridgefield Library – play board, card or video games, make a craft, have a snack…

No registration necessary, just drop in any time between 3:00 and 5:00 PM!

Click here to see the schedule and more information.

Ridgefield Running Company’s Saturday Shop Runs: Happening every week, with options for everyone. We will not have pace leaders (unless posted), and all paces are welcome.

Start times:
~7 AM Main Run (Note: Course will not be marked.)
~7:15 AM Guided Interval Run*

*The Guided Interval Run is a workout guided by a representative from RRC, featuring walk-run intervals. Perfect for beginners and those coming back from injury. Note this run may not always follow the posted route, but this is a no-drop workout (no one is left behind).

*Please try to limit restroom use or use the restrooms at Ballard Park. We have an old building with old infrastructure that can’t handle the volume of a ton of runners using it back-to-back.

Learn more

Join us in our studio as we create together in an inclusive atmosphere of artmaking. This will be a relaxed, fun opportunity to create with others on their artistic journey. Try it out! Hosted by Holli Levy

Open to adults 1+. No charge and no experience necessary.

The first and Third Saturdays of the month from 10:00 AM – Noon.

Learn more

Downtown Ridgefield’s Spring Stroll will take place on Saturday, May 4th from 10am-3pm

The quiet town of Redding has been home to many talented and renowned artists, authors, and actors for generations, including Leonard Bernstein, Jessica Tandy, and Mark Twain. Join us to see a collection of their historic homes, highlighted with special interior stops along the way! And take a look at our other April Artists, Authors, and Actors tours in Fairfield County. (we’re going into five homes and passing another 15-20)

This is a one-time-only event, and space is limited.

The bus start/stop will be in the Redding area. Specific location details will be sent via email prior to the tour.

Register here

The Parent Collective is so excited to host its first Mother’s day event for expecting and newly postpartum moms in Ridgefield. TPC was created to not only provide prenatal education but to help new parents create that much needed community. We hope that this event will celebrate you, as a mom, and help connect you with local resources with have here in town.

Expectant moms will have the opportunity to book a mini-makeover with Essie Cohen and a maternity photo shoot with local photographer, Jenn Reidhead

Guests will get to explore herbal teas, oils, bath salts and try reiki with Pippa Martin, receive lactation, postpartum support and car seat safety instruction from one of our favorite teachers, Cristina Bierce, browse maternity and nursing clothing from Figure 8 Moms, chat about life transitions/changes with local mom and business owner, Sarah Fannon, and sample goodies from Feast & Fettle & Queen Bee. And as a special treat, they will go home with some flowers provided by Wild Iris Flowers

There will be GIVEAWAYS from Figure 8 Moms, All4reki, Cristina V Jewelry, Amour de Visage, Dr. Marilyn Jackson Acupuncture and so much more!

Date & Time: 5th May 2024 @ 3.30pm – 5.30pm

Location: Queen B Coffee Company
417 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT

Spaces are limited to please RSVP to: sarah@theparentcollective.com.

Learn more

In this class, we will continue where we left off in the first art journaling class. If you have taken Art Journaling for Beginners, or have some experience with mixed media, this course is for you. I will introduce a new technique, tool, or topic in each class, including color and composition.

The idea of Art Journaling is always the same. This is for you. Our main goal is to have fun while learning how far we can go with mixed-media art.

Art Journaling is a wonderful way to explore artistic practice, try new techniques, and get your thoughts and feelings on paper through art. Of course, no words are necessary unless you want to write. Like any journal, this is just for you.

Questions? Please email Holli Levy at hollilevy@gmail.com.

Learn more

LGBTQ Youth Support Group– intended to serve youth who identify as part of the LGBTQ community.

This support group will meet via Zoom on the 1st Monday of the month.

Ridgefield CT Pride with PFLAG Waterbury run two monthly peer led support groups that serve the CT and NY communities. The LGBTQ Youth group meets the first Monday of the month. The Pride Caregiver support group meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month and is designed to support caregivers, family and friends of people in the LGBTQ community. Meetings are held virtually. For more information on the support groups email supportgroup@ridgefieldctpride.com.

Come join us for food, fun, community and games. This event is FREE and is open to all LGBTQ teens and allies in grades 6th – 12th. Dinner and refreshments will be served. No RSVP is required.

This event is sponsored by Lighthouse, a program of Kids in Crisis, Ridgefield CT Pride and supported by The Teen Barn and Ridgefield Youth Commission. This collaboration aims to support further the needs of LGBTQ Youth in the Greater Danbury area, including but not limited to upper Fairfield County, southern Litchfield County, and Westchester and covering the towns of Danbury, Bethel, Redding, Ridgefield, New Fairfield, New Milford, Newtown, Weston, Wilton, Katonah, Lewisboro, North Salem, and South Salem.

Contact: Liv Keden: Lkeden@kidsincrisis.org.

Learn more

For over seventy years, Ridgefield and Caudatowa Garden Clubs have joined forces to run a May Plant Sale. Since the early 1970’s, the sale has been held at Ballard Greenhouse, next to Ballard Park. Seed sowing and perennial growing begin in early March. By mid-April, Ballard Greenhouse is a hive of activity, with volunteers preparing vegetables, tomatoes, herbs, perennials, annuals, gift baskets and proven plants from members’ gardens for sale.

The 2024 Plant Sale will be held ​​Friday, May 10th and Saturday, May 11th, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. We hope to see you there, rain or shine!

Learn more

Teens, relax with friends on Friday afternoons at the Ridgefield Library – play board, card or video games, make a craft, have a snack…

No registration necessary, just drop in any time between 3:00 and 5:00 PM!

Click here to see the schedule and more information.

Ridgefield Running Company’s Saturday Shop Runs: Happening every week, with options for everyone. We will not have pace leaders (unless posted), and all paces are welcome.

Start times:
~7 AM Main Run (Note: Course will not be marked.)
~7:15 AM Guided Interval Run*

*The Guided Interval Run is a workout guided by a representative from RRC, featuring walk-run intervals. Perfect for beginners and those coming back from injury. Note this run may not always follow the posted route, but this is a no-drop workout (no one is left behind).

*Please try to limit restroom use or use the restrooms at Ballard Park. We have an old building with old infrastructure that can’t handle the volume of a ton of runners using it back-to-back.

Learn more

In this class, we will continue where we left off in the first art journaling class. If you have taken Art Journaling for Beginners, or have some experience with mixed media, this course is for you. I will introduce a new technique, tool, or topic in each class, including color and composition.

The idea of Art Journaling is always the same. This is for you. Our main goal is to have fun while learning how far we can go with mixed-media art.

Art Journaling is a wonderful way to explore artistic practice, try new techniques, and get your thoughts and feelings on paper through art. Of course, no words are necessary unless you want to write. Like any journal, this is just for you.

Questions? Please email Holli Levy at hollilevy@gmail.com.

Learn more

Beaded Macrame Bracelet Class with Holli Levy on Tuesday, May 14th from 6pm-8pm.

You’ve seen people wearing beautiful beaded macrame bracelets. Join us in a community of people to have fun and create your own jewelry. Make your own Beaded Macrame Bracelet with beads, hemp cord, button, and a few simple macrame knots. All materials included.

For Adults 18+. Price $35 $10 supply fee.

Register here

Ridgefield Independent Film Festival presents the 9th RIFF – screening independent films from around the world at venues all around town. This year’s RIFF features:

• 38 films screened at our town’s gem, the Prospector Theater
• 39th film/art installation at Ridgefield Guild of Artists
• Film Stills Exhibit at the Ridgefield Library
• Panel discussion: MAKE YOUR MOVIE: What to know before you make an independent film, at the Lounsbury House
• Awards Brunch at Keeler Tavern Museum’s & History Center’s Garden House

Additionally, please visit our Filmmakers Lounge with an ALL ACCESS PASS at Ridgefield Vintage & Coffee

ALL ACCESS PASSES are on sale for $99 through April 15th.

The Ridgefield Independent Film Festival (RIFF) seeks to make the world a more compassionate place through the sharing of stories through cinema. We celebrate independent films and filmmakers from around the world who create films that enlighten, entertain, and inspire moviegoers through compelling visual storytelling. RIFF brings innovative films and filmmakers to the culturally vibrant community of Ridgefield, Connecticut for an annual festival that includes screenings, panel discussions, special events, and parties.

Come RIFF with us for from May 16-19, 2024 at The Prospector Theater and all throughout Ridgefield, CT.

Learn more

Ridgefield Running Company’s Saturday Shop Runs: Happening every week, with options for everyone. We will not have pace leaders (unless posted), and all paces are welcome.

Start times:
~7 AM Main Run (Note: Course will not be marked.)
~7:15 AM Guided Interval Run*

*The Guided Interval Run is a workout guided by a representative from RRC, featuring walk-run intervals. Perfect for beginners and those coming back from injury. Note this run may not always follow the posted route, but this is a no-drop workout (no one is left behind).

*Please try to limit restroom use or use the restrooms at Ballard Park. We have an old building with old infrastructure that can’t handle the volume of a ton of runners using it back-to-back.

Learn more

Join us in our studio as we create together in an inclusive atmosphere of artmaking. This will be a relaxed, fun opportunity to create with others on their artistic journey. Try it out! Hosted by Holli Levy

Open to adults 1+. No charge and no experience necessary.

The first and Third Saturdays of the month from 10:00 AM – Noon.

Learn more

Save the Date! Saturday, May 18th is the The Granite Opening Celebration

It’s going to be a great day full of entertainment for the entire family. Indoor and outdoor stages will showcase a variety of musical guests, and our community rooms will feature visual art exhibits from local artists and artist talks. There will be dancing, kids’ activities, and food trucks to keep you fueled!

For our history buff friends, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about local history through stories about the Granite Church, Wire Mill, and Georgetown. We’ll be celebrating into the evening, ending the night with an open jam session. Come and enjoy this magnificent community space with us. Follow us on social media to see updates to the lineup as well as what we’re doing to prep the building, including sound testing and lighting!

Learn more

Put the pedal to the metal and head over to the Prospector and support our mission for people with disabilities! Hang out with fellow car enthusiasts and enjoy some delicious coffee (and Popcorn) with Prospects – it’s the perfect way to start your Sunday!

Join us at The Prospector in Ridgefield, CT, USA for a morning filled with beautiful cars and delicious coffee. Mark your calendars for our Cars & Coffee Presented by North American Motor Car and the Todd Group on Sunday, May 19 from 8am-11am.

Don’t miss out on this exciting event while supporting our mission of competitive and inclusive employment for people with disabilities! Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to start your day, this event is perfect for you. Come mingle with fellow car lovers and Prospects, check out some amazing vehicles, and enjoy a cup of coffee. The Waffle Cabin of Connecticut will be there with belgian waffles available for purchase.

Register here

Please park across the street behind Dimitri’s Diner. The Prospector/Library parking lot will be reserved for those with registered vehicles. All participants must register via Givebutter to reserve their spot. Registration will close on Friday, May 17th at 4:00 pm. Be sure to stay tuned for all updates!

Ridgefield Running Company’s Saturday Shop Runs: Happening every week, with options for everyone. We will not have pace leaders (unless posted), and all paces are welcome.

Start times:
~7 AM Main Run (Note: Course will not be marked.)
~7:15 AM Guided Interval Run*

*The Guided Interval Run is a workout guided by a representative from RRC, featuring walk-run intervals. Perfect for beginners and those coming back from injury. Note this run may not always follow the posted route, but this is a no-drop workout (no one is left behind).

*Please try to limit restroom use or use the restrooms at Ballard Park. We have an old building with old infrastructure that can’t handle the volume of a ton of runners using it back-to-back.

Learn more

This peer led support group is for caregivers, family & friends of LGBTQ individuals. This group meets monthly on the 4th Tuesday of each month via Zoom. This group is run jointly by Ridgefield CT Pride and PFLAG Waterbury.

For more information about the LGBTQ Caregiver Support Group or for information on our LGBTQ Youth Support Group which meets on the 1st Monday of every month via zoom. For information email supportgroup@ridgefieldctpride.com.

Ridgefield Running Company’s Saturday Shop Runs: Happening every week, with options for everyone. We will not have pace leaders (unless posted), and all paces are welcome.

Start times:
~7 AM Main Run (Note: Course will not be marked.)
~7:15 AM Guided Interval Run*

*The Guided Interval Run is a workout guided by a representative from RRC, featuring walk-run intervals. Perfect for beginners and those coming back from injury. Note this run may not always follow the posted route, but this is a no-drop workout (no one is left behind).

*Please try to limit restroom use or use the restrooms at Ballard Park. We have an old building with old infrastructure that can’t handle the volume of a ton of runners using it back-to-back.

Learn more