Good morning, Westport.

Parents and children gathered Wednesday, Dec.

24 at Westport PAL Rink in Longshore Club Park for a Christmas Eve skate; the outdoor rink at 260 Compo Road South runs public skating from November to March.

Local critic Susan Granger reviews the family holiday film Song Sung Blue, starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, which opens today.

The movie follows an auto mechanic who forms a Neil Diamond tribute act that sparks a blended family connection.

Ana Gasteyer performed at Westport Country Playhouse Monday night in her show Sugar + Booze that mixed comic songs and skits in a colorful holiday tribute with eight band members plus a violin while the bandleader surprised three audience winners with quirky white elephant gifts.

Effective in 2026, Metro-North will require tickets be activated before boarding — riders who activate onboard will face an $8 surcharge.

The policy is meant to curb fare evasion, though some commuters worry that low WiFi may delay payments.

Governor Ned Lamont activated Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol today at 5 p.m. to ensure vulnerable residents can access shelter & transportation as arctic conditions are expected until 10 a.m. Dec.

28.

A free Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service class to learn bleeding control techniques is scheduled for January 22 from 7 to 8:45 p.m. at EMS headquarters (50 Jesup Road) to help save lives.

Health officials in Connecticut report rising flu hospitalizations due to a new subclade K strain seen in nearly 90% of influenza A cases, and they advise residents to wash hands, mask and get vaccinated.

Local bars and restaurants are offering festive New Year's Eve cocktail menus — featuring seasonal drinks with a bubble twist — as guests prepare for midnight toasts on Dec.

31, with Westport’s Black Duck Cafe among the venues serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.

Battle of the Bands Competition

7-11 p.m. — The Westport Library — $500 grand prize — Cheer on Fairfield County's top teen and college bands as they compete for the title.