If you’re looking for a mid week plan that’s light on the wallet, but heavy on the "did that really happen?" factor, clear your calendar for this Wednesday night. Avon’s own Playhouse 44 is hosting its fourth storytelling night, Like A Box Of Chocolates: Blind Dates of Destiny, at the Avon Congregational Church. It’s a free evening of true (and likely cringey) tales about the highs and lows of blind dating, capped off with a classic comedy skit. While admission is free, please bring a few nonperishable food items or housewares to donate to Gifts of Love. The fun starts at 7:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall, so grab a friend and come support our local community theater.

Every year around this time, I get the itch to plant seeds and watch them grow. I guess it’s the Martha Stewart in me, the part that dreams of perfectly organized pots, a lush green paradise, and maybe even hosting a garden party for my gnomes.

Of course, early spring in the Valley is still a bit too cold to plant outdoors, but that doesn’t mean it’s too early to start planning. Last spring, I picked up a handful of seeds including fruits, vegetables, and even flowers from the Barney Library Seed Library and started them indoors.

Inside, those little seeds had everything they needed to thrive: warm sunlight, regular watering, and lots of encouragement. It was genuinely thrilling to watch them sprout, stretch upward, and begin to flourish.

But then…things took a turn.

In a sad, but relatable fashion, my gardening journey stalled. I’d started them too early, and we hadn’t quite finished our home garden boxes yet. The plants quickly outgrew their starter trays. The squash was putting out blossoms, the peas were desperately searching for a trellis, and the herbs were getting cramped and leggy. They needed space, and unfortunately, they didn’t make it to harvest.  Apparently, seedlings have zero patience for our procrastination.

So this year, I’m going for redemption.

But it also got me thinking: not everyone has a yard, and not every yard gets enough sunlight. That’s where community gardens come in. They offer space, sunshine, and a shared sense of purpose, and luckily for us, every town in the Farmington Valley has one. Plus, with grocery prices these days, who doesn’t want to grow a few tomatoes at home and save some cash?

If you’re wondering how to get started without owning land, there are plenty of options for borrowing seeds or renting a plot.

Local Seed Libraries
Seed libraries make it easy to try gardening without a big investment. Hosted by local libraries and garden clubs, these programs allow residents to take home free seeds, often just a few packets, to plant, grow, and learn. Some encourage seed saving and sharing at the end of the season, but the heart of every seed library is the same: lowering barriers and growing community through gardening.

Canton – Canton Public Library Seed Library
Farmington – Barney Library Seed Library
Simsbury – Simsbury Public Library Seed Library
West Hartford – Noah Webster Memorial Library (in partnership with the West Hartford Garden Club)

Note: Avon does not currently offer a seed library

Local Community Gardens
Community gardens offer shared space, sunshine, and support, perfect for gardeners who don’t have a yard, don’t get enough sun, or simply enjoy growing alongside neighbors. Plots are usually available in early spring and come with simple guidelines set by each town.

Avon – Alsop Meadows
Canton – Behind the Canton Community Center (40 Dyer Ave)
Farmington – Kolp Community Garden Plot
Simsbury – Sand Hill Road Community Garden
West Hartford – Buena Vista Gardens, Westmoor Park, Wolcott Park

Most community garden plots open for planting in mid-April, though registration deadlines and fees vary. Check your town’s website or Parks & Recreation department for the most up to date information before the season starts.

Here’s what’s on deck this week around the Valley — mark your calendars!

Look for icons to find your crowd: 🎈 kid-friendly • 👤 adult • 🌞 all ages

Library Events

Discover what’s happening at your local library. Registration may be required—check with each library for full details and other events.