Today is Friday, September 22nd, or as my good friend and News 8 Chief Meteorologist Gil Simmons would say, it is the “Autumnal Equinox.” Fancy! And really just another way of saying Fall (smile). Fall in Connecticut means it’s that time when folks can truly enjoy festivals, fairs, carnivals and outdoor expos.
Speaking of festivals, on Saturday, September 16th I had the distinct pleasure of attending the 10th annual Garlic Festival at Olde Mistick Village in Mystic, CT.
Free admission and free parking so I expected it was going to be crazy busy and I was so-ooooooo right…
I must admit I’ve always had a fondness for Mystic…you see I grew up in Groton, CT (right next door to Mystic) so I spent a lot of time in that town (especially while in high school) visiting friends, eating Mystic Pizza, working after school at the ABC Film Lab, hanging out at “The Village,” as we called Olde Mistick Village back in the day, walking downtown during the annual Mystic Arts and Crafts Fair, chilling out at the marina, visiting the Seaport, watching my sister Casandra conduct tours during her kick a– Summer job at the Mystic Aquarium, etc…
So I was looking forward to spending time at The Village once again, albeit now through the eyes of my middle-aged self…
On that particular Saturday, as luck would have it, the weather was sunny and delightful – – perfect for walking around and enjoying the sights and sounds.
Folks (couples, singles, families, dogs, and babies) came from all over Connecticut and beyond.
One of the first things I did was head over to the duck pond. I was not disappointed…
Sampled the wide varieties of olive oil and artisanal honey at Sticky Situations, which was jam-packed with folk!
Bought a souvenir gift from Sophia’s Magical Christmas Shop.
Hung out at Franklin’s General Store for free samples of delish fudge and the experience of a trip back in time…
Spent time at Garden Store Specialties to check out the whimsical gifts for the lawn and garden.
Even made time for lunch with my client Joyce at my new fave, Pink Basil…delish!
Enjoyed a ‘cold one’ at Jealous Monk, a social hall and beer garden.
Garlic galore!
You don’t even need to like the taste of garlic to attend this annual festival as there is truly something for everyone. There’s live entertainment, farm fresh goodies, specialty food carts, vendors, crafters, artists and even authors. And it all takes place at the coolest Village in Connecticut!
Enjoy the season!