Listing Directory: General

Triangle Community Center

Triangle Community Center (TCC) is Fairfield County’s leading provider of programming and resources to nurture growth and connection within the LGBTQ community. TCC is home to more than two dozen, free groups that meet weekly, bi-weekly or monthly at the center. Groups include peer support, recovery, older adult daytime programming, crafts, sober social events and youth groups. TCC’s team of highly trained client advocates assist community members with social service navigation, food, drop-in services, document updates, healthcare navigation and housing navigation at its Drop-In Center in Norwalk and at its satellite office at the Center for Family Justice in Bridgeport.

TCC works to make local area providers more welcoming and affirming through education with its LGBTQ Training Institute. TCC also produces CT’s largest Pride event each June, Fairfield County’s Pride in the Park in Norwalk. Triangle Community Center serves over 300 individuals who utilize its programs and services on a regular basis as well as over 5000 members of the Fairfield County community who attend a TCC program or event at least once a year. While our primary service area is Fairfield County, we often see people travel from Westchester, New Haven, and Litchfield counties to attend one of the programs we offer. TCC’s key target population is the LGBTQ community in Fairfield County, however, we welcome all who seek our services and have many clients who do not identify as LGBTQ.

Rowayton Library

Bringing our community together to learn, grow and connect.

In 1903 the Rowayton Library was organized by a group of public-spirited citizens and housed in a room in Craw’s Hall at 101 Rowayton Avenue. It opened with capital of $154, a loan of 100 books from the State of Connecticut for three months and 25 books from the Bodley Book Club to be exchanged monthly. The library was officially incorporated on July 12, 1905.

Having outgrown its first home, in 1926 the library purchased 145 Rowayton Avenue, the former firehouse of the Reliance Hook and Ladder Company (now the Rowayton Arts Center). The library paid owner Frank Machette $5,700 for the land and the building.

The present building and surrounding six acres at 33 Highland Avenue were purchased by the Sixth Taxing District of Norwalk in 1966 to become the Rowayton Library and Community Center. The Tudor-style building, constructed in 1912, was originally part of the extensive estate of James A. Farrell and housed the stables, tack room, and grooms’ facilities. The original windows in the horses’ stalls are still visible from the west side of the building. The library entered into an agreement with the Sixth Taxing District whereby the library gave the District the property and building at 145 Rowayton Avenue and agreed it would continue to perform the services of a “public library” for the community in exchange for their new home for the next 99 years and a yearly funding grant.

The existing Library space was renovated in 2007 down to the hay found in the ceiling. The renovation included the rejuvenation of prized artwork and a renovated children’s room plus improvements to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.

In 2012 the building underwent exterior renovation with two major historic preservation matching grants from the State of Connecticut making the building more closely resemble what it looked like when originally constructed in 1912. These included repairs to the slate roof, copper flashing and gutters, restoration of other architectural structures such as the cupola and clock on the roof and installation of underground electrical power.

Rowayton Historical Society

Historic Rowayton was founded in 1959 as the Rowayton Historical Society to preserve Rowayton’s vibrant history by maintaining and exhibiting its archives, memorabilia and artwork.

The organization’s name was changed in 2021 to reflect a broader purpose, that of preserving and sharing the history of our town, our City, and our region in a 21st Century way.

Membership and public meetings are held regularly during the year at the Seeley-Dibble-Pinkney house including special programs and speakers. Displays and exhibits, addressing the history of our region are open to the public. We encourage researchers and other interested people to contact us with their questions.

Rowayton Arts Center

RAC celebrates the study, creation and appreciation of the arts through classes, exhibitions and events open to all in the community. For over 60 years, this nonprofit organization has been a cultural gem in Rowayton, CT. The gallery and art school overlook the scenic Five Mile River at 145 Rowayton Avenue with space for regional artists to exhibit their art and a classroom for workshops and classes at all levels offered to children and adults.

Visit rowaytonarts.org and follow @rowaytonarts. RAC is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to providing access to the arts through opportunity, education and outreach.

Norwalk Transit

Norwalk Fixed Route Service Commuter Service for all Greenwich, Norwalk & Westport train stations Wheels2U On-Demand Service.

HOW, WHERE and WHEN to Get Your WHEELS: On streets where Wheels Stops are identified, wait for Wheels at a Wheels stops sign. On Routes 9 and 10, boardings and exits are permitted ONLY at designated Wheels stops. On other streets, you can wave for Wheels to stop anywhere on the route.

NOTE: For your safety, please do not wait on a curve, next to a right turn lane, or on the opposite side of the street from the bus. You can also board all Wheels buses at our Hub. For directions to our Hub click here.

Norwalk Symphony Orchestra

Founded in 1939, The Norwalk Symphony Orchestra is a passionate group of professional musicians serving Norwalk and its neighboring towns, the heart of Fairfield County. Its mission is to provide friends with the opportunity to explore and discover the joys of orchestral music in an informal fashion. The Norwalk Symphony Orchestra plays all of its concerts (unless specifically noted otherwise) at the Norwalk Concert Hall and Norwalk City Hall at 125 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT.

Norwalk Seaport Association

The Norwalk Seaport Association offers a cultural, environmental, and historical journey through Norwalk Harbor, passing many Norwalk Islands to Sheffield Island and Sheffield Island and Lighthouse. The Sheffield Island Lighthouse, on the National Register, and the Light Keeper’s Cottage is a hands-on historical and educational destination. The Lighthouse and Island strives to increase awareness, appreciation, and consideration for our environment and how the preservation of historic buildings and nature contribute to our quality of life and cultural heritage. It is our belief that preservation strengthens the perpetual partnership between the past, the present, and the future. The combination of the Lighthouse and the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge offers an unparalleled opportunity to educate children of all ages and adults about the importance of preserving Long Island Sound, our environment and maritime heritage.

2023 NORWALK SEAPORT ASSOCIATION CRUISES:

Advanced reservations are required. Cruises do sell out! The capacity of our vessel is limited to 49 passengers. Our vessel sails promptly as scheduled, it is best to plan on arriving 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure. Your boat leaves from the Sheffield Island Lighthouse dock located at the corner of North Water Street and Washington Street in Historic South Norwalk. For more information visit https://www.seaport.org/tickets-and-prices

Parking is available at adjacent lots (www.norwalkpark.org). Tickets are non-refundable unless there is a weather cancellation. Be sure to provide contact information (both email & text) in the event we are forced to cancel due to weather conditions.

Sheffield Island Lighthouse and Ferry are available for private and corporate events, please call 203-838-9444 for more information.

VISIT SHEFFIELD ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE AND HARBOR TOUR, TUESDAY – SUNDAY, 11 A.M. – 2 P.M. and 3 P.M. – 6 P.M.

The Norwalk Seaport Association has owned, restored and maintained Sheffield Island Lighthouse since 1986 and is the official U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Friends group for the Norwalk Islands. This three-hour excursion begins with a narrated tour of the Norwalk harbor and its three historic Norwalk lighthouses, ending with a 1 1/2 hour stop at Sheffield Island Lighthouse. Sheffield Island with its historic lighthouse, beach, and wildlife refuge offers abundant summer fun for visitors.

From May through September, visitors can board the Seaport Association’s 45-foot C.J. Toth Catamaran for a harbor cruise ending with a 1 1/2 hour stop at Sheffield Island. Step back in time as you tour two floors of the living areas in the Lighthouse experiencing what life was like for a light keeper and his family. Even though the light tower is currently closed, occasionally guests are allowed to go up. Afterward, observe wildlife in their natural habitat in the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, hunt for shells along the beach, bring a picnic lunch, play on the lawn around the Lighthouse, and simply have a good time. During this unforgettable excursion to Sheffield Island and Lighthouse, you’ll step directly from the boat into the past.

We invite our guests to use our newly installed antique telescope to capture magnificent views of the city and Sound. Round trip time is approximately three hours. Join us for one of the most exciting tours that the Norwalk Harbor Islands area has to offer! Sheffield Island is located in the outer reaches of Norwalk Harbor providing unique views of the city and the surrounding waterways.

SUNSET CRUISES, EVERY WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY FROM 6:30 – 8:30 PM:

Join us for the most breathtaking tour of the outer Norwalk Harbor and Norwalk’s three historic lighthouses. Your trip begins with a narrated tour of the historic Norwalk Harbor, taking you back to Norwalk’s early days when Native Americans introduced the English settlers to a strange seafood delicacy… raw oysters. As you leave the inner harbor you will cruise to the first of three Norwalk lighthouses Peck Ledge Light built in 1906, Greens Ledge Light, built in 1902, then finally, to the historic Sheffield Island Lighthouse, built in 1868. Sheffield Island Lighthouse is owned and operated by the Norwalk Seaport Association. Along the way, you will see many migratory birds and their breeding nests, oyster boats hauling in their catch of the day, and other islands that dot the waterway. Guests are invited to BYOB and snacks to enjoy as they watch the sun set over the water making this cruise the perfect way to unwind at the end of the day.

NORWALK SEAPORT SPECIAL EVENTS

2023 Clambakes on Sheffield Island

One of the most popular events on Sheffield Island is our New England Clambake. Tickets include a round- trip cruise to Sheffield Island, lighthouse tours, and an authentic New England Clam bake (landlubber choices are also offered) in our waterfront open-air wooden pavilion on our private island. We will be hosting our New England Clambake every Tuesday from July 11 through August 29, 2023. There will be two price points per person, depending on the entrée. All reservations must be made online, in advance.

2023 Pirates Day on Sheffield Island – A Family Favorite

Scallywags of all ages can step into a world of pirates on Saturday, July 22 and, Sunday, July 23, 2023 when purchasing a ferry ride ticket to Sheffield Island for the Pirates Weekend hosted by the Norwalk Seaport Association. There will be three boats cruising to Sheffield Island each day at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets are available online, and it is highly recommended to get them in advance.

Norwalk Public Library

The Norwalk Public Library System, with our open access to diverse resources, is the information and cultural center for Norwalk Citizens and businesses.

ZUMBA ON ZOOM FOR TEENS AND ADULTS, EVERY MONDAY FROM 6:00 – 7:00 PM: Do you love to dance? Are you ready to get your groove on, get in shape, and have lots of fun? The library is offering free Zumba classes for teens and adults Mondays at 6:00 PM on Zoom. For ages 13 and up. Join Here!

Norwalk Historical Society Museum

Self-guided Tours of the Norwalk Historical Society Museum, Wednesdays through Saturdays from 12:00 – 4:00 PM: Explore nine exhibitions that highlight Norwalk’s rich history. Exhibitions include:

“Caught in the Crosshairs: The Secret of the Norden Bombsight” curated by Judith Bacal; “Destination Norwalk: African-American Migration from the South, 1940 – 1970” curated by Kathleen Motes Bennewitz; “Eating off the Landscape: The Farrington-Lockwood Dessert Service” and “Form, Function, Family: Silver from the Norwalk Historical Society and City of Norwalk Collections” both curated by Elizabeth Pratt Fox; “Margaret Hoyt Smith Norwalk’s First Female Architect” curated by Lynn Friedman; “New Deal, New Day: WPA Artists at Work and Play” curated by Valerie A. Cooper; “Norwalk Collects: Celebrating Four Historic Collections” curated by Elizabeth Pratt Fox; “Norwalk: Portrait of Diversity” co-curated by Leslie Korzennik & Scott Kuykendall with photography by the late Tony Velez; “Self and the World: Experiencing Photography in 19th-Century Norwalk” curated by Elizabeth Avery.

The Norwalk Historical Society Museum’s Gift Shop will be open during self-guided tour hours. The gift shop showcases the work of local artists and features an eclectic array of distinctive merchandise including home decor, paintings, mixed media art, photography, jewelry, books, clothing, vintage-inspired toys, pottery as well as Norwalk Historical Society logo wear.

Tickets: Adults: $5.00 per person Seniors ages 65+: $3.00 per person Youth ages 4 – 17: $3.00 per person Children 3 and under are free. For the safety of our guests, staff and volunteers, masks are optional for vaccinated visitors and highly recommended for unvaccinated visitors.

The Norwalk Historical Society Museum is located on the Norwalk City Hall campus. The Museum is in the brick house with blue front door and sits next to the Norwalk Health Department. Parking at Norwalk City Hall parking lot.

Norwalk Community Chorale

The Norwalk Community Chorus (as it was first named) was founded in 1961 as a project of the Norwalk Recreation and Parks Department. It started with three singers under the direction of Floyd Higgins, then Director of Music at Ponus Ridge Junior High School, and grew to a membership of 30 members within three months. Its purpose was to provide free choral concerts for the people of Norwalk and the surrounding towns.

The four-part mixed chorus has performed all types of music including classical, patriotic, spirituals, show tunes, pops, jazz, folk songs and madrigals. The Chorale has given concerts every Christmas and spring since their first concert in December 1961, and have performed at many local and charitable functions throughout the community over the years.

In addition to visiting shopping centers, nursing homes and The Retired School Sisters of Notre Dame, the Chorale has participated in numerous holiday tree lighting ceremonies. Members have performed at The Maritime Aquarium, celebrated the welcoming home of the Desert Storm troops, joined forces with the National Chorale in 1991 during a Flag Day celebration, and greeted the New Year during Norwalk’s First Night Sono celebrations.

In September 1990, the Norwalk Community Chorale was the recipient of two civic awards in recognition of its distinguished services to the community.

The Norwalk Community Chorale continues under the auspices of the Norwalk Recreation and Parks Department. The chorale’s membership consists of local community people whose love of music enables them to unselfishly donate their time and talent for weekly rehearsals in their goal to bring each program to a peak of musical excellence.

Anyone who loves to sing and enjoys music is invited to join us. There are no audition requirements or residency restrictions. For more information, call 203-853-9842 or email us.

The Norwalk Community Chorale is supported by the Norwalk Community Chorale Inc. which is a participating 501c3 organization. If you would like to support the chorale with your tax deductible gift, please click here.