We’re in the final stretch of winter, and if you’re at all like me the cabin fever is real. Between all the snowstorms, the one-year anniversary of COVID, social distancing and mask wearing, this winter is very blue. Bleak, even.
But while we wait out these final weeks before spring, here’s a few ideas that might help inspire:
Attend a Winter Farmer’s Market
In the dead of winter, you can still peruse local farmers markets and bazaars. In fact, there’s multple markets you can put on your calendar. The Niantic Saturday Winter Market is still going on every weekend thru Sunday, March 27, from 2-5pm, at the Smith’s Acres Greenhouse (4 W. Main Street, Niantic, CT). The Groton Pop-Up Farmers Market has one remaining event for the season, a St. Patrick’s Pop-Up on Saturday, March 13, from 10am-1pm, at Washington Park (295 Meridian St, Groton, CT).
Support a Local Restaurant Week
Restaurants still need our support, now more than ever. Take a break from your usual take-out routine and participate in a local restaurant week! Mystic Restaurant Week returns March 1-7, with more than 20 participating restaurants offering special menus at special prices for lunch and dinner. Niantic/East Lyme Restaurant Week follows March 4-14. Plan ahead and make reservations!
Take a “Goat Stroll” at Lyman Orchards
This winter Lyman Orchards has been hosting “Goat Strolls,” a relaxing activity on their scenic property. Roam around the pond at Lyman Orchards and let your goast feast on forage around the grounds. Stay to shop at the Apple Barrel Farm Market. Tickets include a freshly made donut and a cup of hot apple cider. There is only one event left – February 28th! Get your tickets before they sell out.
Order the Sourdough Doughnuts at Nana’s
Nana’s Bakery & Pizza quietly opened last year during the pandemic, and its been the sweetest surprise to grace Mystic/Stonington. The eatery sells delicious pizza, but don’t skimp on breakfast. Go for a winter drive and swing by for coffee and doughnuts. Special, made-to-order hot sourdough doughnuts, to be exact. They are the freshest thing and worth every calorie.
Grab Lunch at Tin Peddler in Stonington
New restaurant alert! We spotted a new eatery in North Stonington this week, The Tin Peddler. The eatery offers carefully selected locally sourced produce, meats, dry goods and grocery. Their hand crafted daily changing menu includes soups, salads, sandwiches and meals for takeaway. They also showcase local farmers, fishermen & artisans.