Good morning, Westport.

Westport is hosting many local events including a wreath-making class on December 10 and several cooking classes at Wakeman Town Farm, while Westport Country Playhouse shows Mandy Patinkin tonight and a folk-rock trio on January 24.

Local groups plan a book event with Melissa Bernstein on December 9, celebrate PAL football co-champions and a Rotary meeting with Stephanie Phillips—plus enjoy fall colors and nod to historic milestones like Edison’s phonograph.

Connecticut experts say that the upcoming winter weather will not be harsh enough to kill the invasive Spotted Lanternfly eggs—residents are urged to scrape off egg masses from trees to help reduce damage next summer.

Westport's first responders received 50 new Philips Automated External Defibrillators to replace outdated equipment across police, fire, and EMS vehicles—these devices cost $62,020 with funds raised partly by a spring 2024 fundraiser and partly by Westport Volunteer EMS.

The new AEDs improve the readiness and response of local emergency services.

Health officials warned that a new flu strain called subclade K, which has been spreading in Asia — and Europe, may already be in Connecticut and could lead to a worse flu season.

The state is reviewing local data and noted that the current vaccine was not meant to protect against this variant and may offer only limited coverage.

Connecticut health officials defended vaccine safety after a CDC update raised concerns over autism claims—officials said decades of research show vaccines protect children—and announced that HHS will study possible biological links to autism.

They urged parents to follow current guidelines and consult trusted health care providers.

Homes & Gardens has highlighted Martha Stewart’s former Turkey Hill home in Westport by focusing on its country kitchen, which features copper pots—antique baskets and stainless steel appliances that give the space a timeless look.

Stewart owned the property from 1971 to 2007, and the design continues to attract praise decades later.

The Yale men’s basketball team is headed to the Paradise Jam in the Virgin Islands this weekend to play Green Bay and either UMass or Charleston because few local teams will face them + Coach James Jones said the event is planned to give his team extra practice for tough NCAA Tournament play.

Silvermine Holiday Sale & Fundraiser

5-8 p.m. — Silvermine Arts Center — Free entry — Discover unique handmade gifts and enjoy festive fun as you kick off the holiday season.

CraftWestport 2025

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Staples High School — $0 - $13 — Explore unique crafts and artwork from 175 American artists and makers at this vibrant shopping event.

44th Annual Production of The Nutcracker

1-3 p.m. — Staples High School — $35 — Experience the joy of a timeless holiday ballet featuring talented Academy students and professional dancers.

The Nutcracker: Annual Production

2-4 p.m. — Staples High School — $35 — Experience a holiday classic performed by talented Academy students and professionals.