Artisans festival to grace Village Green July 20

By Deborah Rose

Anyone who appreciates art may find the New Milford Village Green to be the perfect destination July 20.

That’s when the fourth annual Litchfield County Artisans Festival will take place, bringing nearly 90 vendors together to show and sell their work at one of the most beautiful venues in town.

It is the second major arts festival in two months on the Green.

In addition to artisans, the event which will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. will feature three food trucks, a lemonade stand, a baked goods tent, a charcuterie cart, two bands, and face painting.

“Last year’s turnout was terrific,” said Janet Wittmann, who, along with her husband, John, daughter, Denice Wittmann, and other family members, organize the festival. “We had hoped for good attendance, but it more than met our expectations.”

Wittmann said it was estimated more than 3,000 people flocked to the Green for last year’s event.

This year, artisans will showcase their jewelry, woodwork, resin-crafted items, candles, personal care products, art, photography, and more. 

In addition, two authors will be on hand to promote their books.

Many local artisans and crafters will participate, and some will travel from out-of-state.

“People can expect to be wowed by the amazing variety of goods that will be on display, showcased by talented people from all over Connecticut, and some from neighboring towns in New York,” Wittmann related.

Joe Caverely, of Doc Cav Woodworking in Gaylordsville, said he looks forward to returning to this year’s event after participating for the first time last year.

“I really like the art festivals and events in New Milford because it’s convenient, but also because it’s nice to see people from town (and afar) who come to see what these events have to offer,” the artist said.

Caverly creates handcrafted wood products, such as cutting boards featuring different patterns, colors, and woods, as well as flags and other products.

“I love to see people get something handmade and natural and put that in their kitchen,” he said, adding many of the products he produces are custom made.

He described the joy he had making custom cutting boards for a grandmother who wanted to pass along a family recipe to her grandchildren. Caverly lasered the recipe in her handwriting into the cutting boards.

Mardi Smith, of Baskets by Mardi of Sandy Hook, said she, too, looks forward to participating in the event.

The returning artist said she enjoys the “nice crowd” that usually attends and the time she has interacting with customers. 

Wittmann said organizers take care to ensure no one medium is over-represented at the festival, giving everyone a balanced opportunity to present their work.

“We place a limit on vendors working with popular categories such as jewelry, and when preparing the space assignments, we do our best to keep them apart,” she said.

Beyond the art, patrons will have an opportunity to enjoy music by Dean Snellback’s Bluesey Land Band from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and returning band Blonde & Grey from 2 to 5 p.m.

Food will be available at returning food trucks Rich’s Wings & Things, Weenie Lynn’s Hot Dogs, and Dad’s Cannoli Truck.  

Patrons are also invited to explore the many downtown shops and restaurants, Wittmann said, noting that “downtown merchants have been invited to participate by having sidewalk sales or other promotions to attract shoppers who might not otherwise be in town.”

The festival is presented in partnership with the Town of New Milford.

“We greatly appreciate the partnership with Mayor Pete Bass and his staff, helping to make this venture successful,” she said.

Wittman said the festival “gives a nod” to the former Village Fair Days held on the Green. The event promoted local talent and celebrated the picturesque downtown center.

Organizers said a donation from funds raised this year will benefit Camella’s Cupboard and the town’s fuel bank. 

Last year, funds were donated for scholarships at the Village Center for the Arts.

Courtesy of Joe Caverely/Wood creations, like this cutting board, by Joe Caverely of Doc Can Woodworking, will be displayed and sold at the festival.

Courtesy of Mardi Smith/An assortment of baskets and other items made from recycled fabric by Mardi Smith of Baskets by Mardi in Sandy Hook will be sold.

Courtesy of Autumn Rose/Personal care products by vendors, including Autumn Rose Handcrafts Goods, will be available to purchase.

Courtesy of Hemp Bracelets by Vicki F. Cook/Jewelry, including hemp bracelets by Vicki F. Cook, will be showcased.

Courtesy of Lori's Looking Glass/An assortment of products by Lori's Looking Glass will be featured at the event.