The champagne flutes may be empty, but the start of the New Year is a clean slate and full of possibilities. January 1st symbolizes a fresh start with clear paths ahead… a time when we reflect on the last year and how we want to best live the upcoming year. For many, that includes a focus on personal growth, whether it be through physical fitness or wellness, taking up a new hobby, discovering your creative side, or volunteering our time for the greater good. There are plenty of opportunities in Ridgefield to explore new avenues (or revisit old ones) and we’ve put together a few suggestions to get you inspired.
Happy New Year!
The air may be brisk but it’s oh, so refreshing! Ridgefield has so much to offer outdoors you’ll never be wondering where to go or what to do. Take some time to enjoy nature and take a walk or hike through our wonderful trails! We’ve gathered a variety of outdoor adventures the whole family can enjoy.
Are you a runner or cyclist? The Ridgefield Running Club offers community to those who have been running for years and those new to the sport. Get your blood pumping at one of two events on January 1st! The Resolution Run/Walk is the perfect way to hit the ground running in 2023, and the Frozen Feet Challenge will help you get into an exercise routine over the course of six weeks. For those who prefer to hop on a bike, the Ridgefield Bicycle Club provides the same sense of community and events for cyclists.
If you prefer to stay a little warmer while working exercise into your daily routine, there are a variety of fitness activities to pursue right here in town. Start your yoga practice or build core strength with Pilates, get motivated by a personal trainer, join a sports club or our very own Recreation Center, offering an extensive menu of activities for all. There are even clubs for stretching, interval training, and which offer nutrition coaching. Get your golf game ready for spring, or even play a little ice hockey! Head to our directory for a list of sports and recreation related opportunities in Ridgefield.
You’re never too old (or too grown-up) to start something new or deepen your understanding of something you already enjoy. Ridgefield has so much to offer to get your mind and body creating! Consider taking an art class at RPAC Art Center or the Ridgefield Guild of Artists. Get a knitting kit from nancy O and make something cozy for these chilly winter days, or learn how to make stunning jewelry for yourself and others at the Guilded Lynx.
If you’re interested in the performing arts, Ridgefield has dance, music, and theater covered! The Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance offers adult classes in ballet, jazz, and tap and the Ridgefield Theater Barn hosts auditions for upcoming shows at various times of year. And Bach to Rock isn’t just for the kids—pick up a new instrument or brush up on one you haven’t touched in years.
For those looking to exercise the mind, the Ridgefield Library has an ever-evolving offering of classes including French Conversation for beginners and a poetry workshop for those looking to unleash their inner Emily Dickinson. The Aldrich Museum and Keeler Tavern offer various talks and workshops throughout the year—perfect for art and history lovers! And of course there is the fabulous Founders Hall for seniors looking to engage with others in conversation and creativity, all while being part of a wonderful community.
One of the most rewarding ways to grow and give back at the same time is through volunteer work. Offering your time for the benefit of others is an invaluable contribution, especially when you’re helping to support your own community! Ridgefield has an abundance of volunteer opportunities, including delivering meals for Meals on Wheels, walking dogs or filling in the pet food pantry for ROAR, or supporting organizations and people suffering from illness or who are differently abled. History buffs will love helping to keep Ridgefield’s alive with the many year-round events through the Ridgefield Historical Society and Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center.
Through Ann’s Place, you can support those receiving cancer treatment or help run fundraising events. Those who love horses as much as people can volunteer at Ridgebury Farm and help those going through hippotherapy. Cornerstone Home and Gardens and SPHERE offer a wide variety of unique opportunities from event and arts programming to working directly with those benefiting from their programs.
There are so many fantastic non-profit organizations in town, all immensely appreciative of the contributions of others. Whether arts and cultural organizations or community services, there are many gratifying ways to give back to the Ridgefield community while expanding your own horizons.
Wishing you a very happy and fulfilling New Year from the inRidgefield team!
Thank you to the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce for supporting the Ridgefield community!
