Quick Thank You
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Before We Dive In, Let's Settle Last Week's Trivia
Remember this one?
Back in 1983, the militant Puerto Rican group “Los Macheteros” pulled off what was then the biggest heist in U.S. history by robbing a Wells Fargo in West Hartford. How much did they walk away with?
A) $1 million B) $3 million C) $7 million D) $10 million
You Guessed... Now See If You Were Right
Alright, enough suspense. Let’s get into this week’s issue.
Too Soon for Christmas? Not in Canton
Sometimes it feels like the holidays start earlier every year. You know the feeling, when Halloween decorations sneak into stores in July, or when “All I Want for Christmas Is You” starts its inevitable climb up the charts before the leaves have even finished falling. But every now and then, there’s a good reason to lean into the early holiday spirit. One of those reasons is the Gallery of Trees at the Canton Historical Museum, a beloved community tradition that kicks off in mid-November with a festive Opening Night Gala and fills the museum with dozens of dazzling, decorated trees.
This year, the Opening Night Gala is set for Saturday, November 15, offering attendees an exclusive first look at the museum’s holiday transformation. Guests can also enjoy food, drinks, and live music while wandering among beautifully themed trees, each one lovingly decorated by local businesses and community members. Tickets for the gala are $25 per person and if you donate a tree to the event, you’ll receive a free ticket. It’s a chance to experience a cozy, festive evening inside the museum’s historic halls, and maybe even get inspiration for your own holiday décor.
The Gallery of Trees opens to the public on Sunday, November 16, and runs through Sunday, December 7. Admission is free; check the museum’s website for hours and other details. Visitors can admire the trees, stroll through the museum’s other exhibits, and participate in the tree raffle, which requires ticket purchase and offers a fun way to support the museum while possibly bringing home a unique holiday masterpiece. The drawing for the trees will be on Sunday, December 7, after 4 pm. Winners do not need to be present. Past years have showcased trees in every style imaginable, there’s something to delight visitors of all ages.
Whether you go for the gala, or the public viewing, the Gallery of Trees is a perfect way to kick off the holiday season in the Farmington Valley. Consider it your official permission slip to feel festive before Thanksgiving.
🔍Valley Trivia
This week, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served our country. Veterans Day, observed this Tuesday, is a time to reflect on their sacrifices and contributions to our nation’s freedom. Unlike Memorial Day, which specifically honors those who lost their lives in service, Veterans Day recognizes everyone who has worn the uniform, past and present.
Veterans Day commemorates which historical event?
A) The signing of the Treaty of Versailles
B) The end of World War II
C) The armistice that ended fighting in World War I
D) The armistice of the Korean War
Find out in next week’s issue!
November 10 - 16 Notes:
The Week Ahead
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
Date & Time | Event Name | Location |
Tue, Nov 11 5:30 PM | Simsbury Farms | |
Tue, Nov 11 6:30 PM | GastroPark, WeHa | |
Wed, Nov 12 10 AM | Pinchot Sycamore Tree Park | |
Wed, Nov 12 6 - 7 PM | Noah Webster House | |
Wed, Nov 12 6:30 - 8 PM | WeHa Brewing | |
Wed, Nov 12 6:30 - 8 PM | Farmington Community Center | |
Thu, Nov 13 1:30 PM | Weatogue Park | |
Thu, Nov 13 5 - 8 PM | Talcott Mountain Collective | |
Thu, Nov 13 6 - 9 PM | LaSalle Market & Deli | |
Fri, Nov 14 7 - 10 PM | Talcott Mountain Collective | |
Fri, Nov 14 8 PM | New Park Brewing | |
Sat & Sun, Nov 15 - 16 10 AM - 3 PM | Noah Webster House | |
Sat, Nov 15 12 - 3 PM | Stanley Whitman House | |
Sat, Nov 15 12 - 4:15 PM | 1052 New Britain Ave, West Hartford CT | |
Sat, Nov 15 7 - 10 PM | Talcott Mountain Collective | |
Sat, Nov 15 7:30 - 9:30 PM | The Sounding Board, WeHa | |
Sun, Nov 16 1 PM | Westfarms | |
Sun, Nov 16 1 - 3 PM | Winding Trails | |
Sun, Nov 16 3 - 6 PM | Talcott Mountain Collective |
Booked in the Valley: Your Library Connection
Library Events
Discover what’s happening at your local library. Registration may be required—check with each library for full details and other events.
Date & Time | Event Name | Library |
Mon, Nov 10 4 - 5 PM | Farmington | |
Mon, Nov 10 5 - 7 PM | Simsbury | |
Mon, Nov 10 6 - 7:30 PM | West Hartford (NWL) | |
Wed, Nov 12 10 AM - 12 PM | Simsbury | |
Wed, Nov 12 6 - 7 PM | Farmington | |
Wed, Nov 12 6:30 - 7:45 PM | West Hartford (NWL) | |
Fri, Nov 14 | Avon | |
Sat, Nov 15 12 - 3 PM | Avon | |
Sat, Nov 15 11 AM - 1 PM | West Hartford (NWL) | |
Sun, Nov 16 2 - 3:30 PM | Simsbury |
