OK people, it’s almost TGIF time! But before you kick off those freshly-polished loafers and slip into those slippers you’ve been longing for all week, take a little time to make some weekend plans! Ditch the kids and head to Foxwoods for some Duran Duran, or bring the whole family to see the water-powered Up-Down Sawmill, which opens for the spring season on Saturday. The choice is yours. Check out our list of suggestions to make your weekend a fun one!
1.
WHERE/WHEN: Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. in New London.
WHY GO: Check out entertainment on Parade Plaza from the West African Dancers and Drummers and spend the night enjoying art at the participating galleries.
PRICING: Bring that wallet! We know those empty, white walls at home are a pain to look at.
WHERE/WHEN: Located off Iron Street in Ledyard, the sawmill opens Saturday for the spring season, 1-4 p.m. It will be open every Saturday through the end of May.
WHY GO: With only one other water-powered sawmill like it in all of New England, the Up-Down Sawmill is a local treasure. Rich in history and fascinating to see.
PRICING: Free, although donations are always appreciated.
3.
WHERE/WHEN: Saturday at 8 p.m. at Foxwoods.
WHY GO: The MGM Grand Theater at Foxwoods will be feelin’ the ‘80s Saturday night, for sure. Don’t leave your leg warmers at home!
PRICING: Tickets range from $40 to $65.
4.
WHERE/WHEN: The vineyard is open seven days a week. Current hours are from 12 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
WHY GO: Tours are held daily at 2 p.m. The tasting room is open daily from 12 to 4 p.m. until April 30. Extended hours begin May 1.
PRICING: Tastings are $10 per person. All six of Stonington Vineyard’s wines will be included in the sample.
5. HERBS: ENJOYING THEM FROM START TO FINISH
WHERE/WHEN: Sunday at 1 p.m. at Holdridge Home and Garden Showplace in Ledyard.
WHY GO: Herbs smell good and taste good, too—but do you really know anything about them? Herbalist Sandy Merill will discuss using herbs in gardening, cooking and decorating. At 2 p.m., chefs from The Boathouse Restaurant in Mystic will give a live cooking demonstration.
PRICING: Limited seating is available, so tickets must be purchased in advance. Cost is $5 per person.