New Pond Farm Education Center

November Jr Staff: Animal Caretaker (Grades 5-12)
2025-11-09 11:00 - 12:30 (America/New_York)
This program is full, but we are taking a waiting list
Love animals? Come learn the ins and outs of animal care. Focused on our resident reptiles and amphibians, this hands-on program will have Jr Staff helping with feedings, cleanings, health checks, enrichment, and more.
This program is:Free for members,$10 per non-member
Registration required.
Please Register Here for the Wait List

November Storytime for Children with Adults (Ages 1 - 5)
2025-11-09 09:30 - 10:30
Join us for nature stories and related activities as we explore the seasons at New Pond Farm. Activities may include live animal encounters, nature crafts, walks on the property, and more.
Includes an outdoor component – please dress accordingly.
This program is:$10 per member child,$15 per non-member child.(Adults and siblings under 1 are free)
Registration required.

Cookies & Crafting (Grades 2-4)
2025-11-07 18:30 - 20:30
Calling all crafters and cookies enthusiasts! Enjoy a night full of creativity and fun inspired by the nature around us. You will leave with unique masterpieces – some even edible!
This program is:$30 per member,$40 per non-member
Registration required.
Please Register Here

Pour and Sip with Christy Bonaiuto
2025-11-06 19:00 - 20:00
Christy’s pour painting classes are all about joyful exploration, creative flow, and letting go of perfection. With vibrant color, playful techniques, and a touch of unpredictability, each participant creates a one-of-a-kind abstract piece—no experience needed! Whether you’re swirling paint with tools or your hands, you’ll leave with art that’s as unique and expressive as you are.
This Program is:$40 per member,$50 per non-member
Registration required.

November Nature Explorers (Grades K-2)
2025-11-06 16:00 - 17:00
This program is FULL, but we are taking a waiting list
3 Thursdays, 3 times per month November 6, 13, & 20
Join us for this monthly 3-part series full of outdoor nature adventures. Each week we will explore the property and make exciting discoveries in our woodlands, wetlands, meadow, and gardens. May include hikes, games, animal encounters, campfires, and more. The focus is child-led, outdoor play.
This 3-part program is:$45 per member child,$60 per non-member child
Registration required.
Please Register Here for the Wait List

November Nature Explorers (Ages 3 - 5)
2025-11-06 13:30 - 15:00
3 Thursdays: November 6, 13, & 20
Get in on the fun during this monthly 3-part series full of outdoor nature adventures! Each week we will explore the property and make exciting discoveries in woodlands, wetlands, gardens, and meadow. This child-led afternoon of outdoor play may include hikes, games, animal encounters, nature art, and more.
This 3-part program is:$45 per member,$60 per non-member
Registration required.
Please Register Here

Needlework Drop-in
2025-11-06 10:30 - 12:00
Join us for a relaxing afternoon of knitting, crocheting, embroidery, and other fiber arts projects. We will gather around the fireplace and share stories, ideas, and advice as we each work on our own projects. Open to all experience levels. Come be inspired, meet new friends, and learn something new. Light refreshments will be provided.
This program is:Free
Registration requested.
Please Register Here

Little Learners: Little Chefs (Ages 3-5)
2025-11-05 13:30 - 15:00
This program is FULL, but we are taking a waiting list
3 Wednesdays: November 5, 12, &19
Designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and foster a love of nature, the Little Learners monthly series are child-led, playful, and hands-on.
This program is:$45 per member,$60 per non-member
Registration is required
Please Register Here for the Wait List

Caregiver & Child Series, for children ages 18-36 months: Session 2 (Wednesdays)
2025-11-05 10:00 - 11:30
The Wednesday session has been cancelledHowever, there is still some space in the Tuesday session
6 Wednesdays: November 5 – December 18 (no class 11/26)
A weekly program for our littlest learners and their caregivers. Each week we will gather outdoors and spend our time connecting with nature and one another through free play, exploratory walks, live animal encounters, nature crafts, and seasonal stories.
This 6-part program is:$135 for members,$165 for non-members
Registration required.

Caregiver & Child Series, for children ages 18-36 months: Session 2 (Tuesdays)
2025-11-04 10:00 - 11:30
Limited Spaces Left!
6 Tuesdays: November 4 – December 17 (no class 11/25)
A weekly program for our littlest learners and their caregivers. Each week we will gather outdoors and spend our time connecting with nature and one another through free play, exploratory walks, live animal encounters, nature crafts, and seasonal stories.
This 6-part program is:$135 for members,$165 for non-members
Registration required.
Please Register Here

Winter Buzz: Secrets to Pollinator Survival
2025-11-02 13:00 - 14:00
This program is FULL, but we are taking a waiting list
Where do pollinators go in winter? Join NPFEC Apiary Manager Ann Murray for a gentle fall walk and discover how honey bees, native bees, moths, bats, and birds survive the cold. Learn how New Pond Farm supports pollinators year-round and leave with simple, practical tips to help them thrive on your own property—even in winter. Perfect for nature lovers, gardeners, and curious minds!
This program is:Free
Registration required.
Please Register Here for the Wait List

Open Day
2025-11-02 11:00 - 14:00
Interested in becoming a member, or just want to learn more about what we have to offer? Come enjoy the stunning landscape, the fascinating history, the diverse habitats, the varied wildlife, the multitude of educational opportunities, and the warm and welcoming staff.
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the property, visit with the animals, sample delicious dairy products, and connect with members of our staff and Board.
No Registration Required!

STEM Sundays (Grades K-4)
2025-11-02 10:00 - 11:00
Limited Spaces Left!
STEM Sundays are designed to inspire young minds and build foundational science skills through hands-on experiments, creative problem-solving, and team projects that make learning meaningful and fun.
This program is:$15 per member,$20 per non-member
Registration required.
Please Register Here

A Celebration of Connecticut Woodland Indians
2025-11-01 10:00 - 12:00
Kick off National Native American Heritage Month with us as we learn about the history of indigenous people who lived on the land around New Pond Farm. This hands-on, family program will include cooking demonstrations around the fire, opportunities to try traditional chores like grinding corn and scraping a hide, simple games, and more. You will visit the Encampment, home to an authentically recreated longhouse and wigwam, as well as the museum which houses authentic hammerstones, projectile points, and more.
This program is:$15 per member family,$20 per non-member family
Registration required.
Please Register Here

Animal Care Club (Grades 2-4): Session 2
2025-10-29 16:00 - 17:00
6 Wednesdays: October 29 – December 17 (no class 11/19 or 11/26)
Join us as we care for our resident turtles, snakes, lizards, roaches, rabbits, and many more! Help provide care and enrichment through feeding, making mazes, and cleaning habitats all while learning more about these wonderful creatures. Please note this program will primarily take place inside our animal room.
This 6-part program is:$90 per member child,$120 per non-member child
Registration required.
Please Register Here

October Jr Staff: Animal Caretaker
2025-10-26 11:00 - 12:30

October Storytime for Children with Adults (Ages 1 - 5)
2025-10-26 09:30 - 10:30
Join us each month for nature stories and related activities as we explore the seasons at New Pond Farm. Activities may include live animal encounters, nature crafts, walks on the property, and more. Each session will include an outdoor component – please dress accordingly.
This program is:$10 per member child,$15 per non-member child.(Adults and siblings under 1 are free)
Registration required.
Please Register Here

Evening Woodland Walk (7pm)
2025-10-25 19:00 - 20:00
Join our guides as you wind your way through our enchanted woodlands learning about fascinating furred and feathered nocturnal neighbors including skunks, raccoons, owls, and foxes. Test your own nighttime hunting abilities through a series of family-friendly activities. And enjoy a mid-walk break at our inviting campfire where you will be treated to farm fresh hot chocolate and tasty treats.
Recommended for children 12 and under. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
This program is:
$10 per member,
$15 per non-member
(children age 3 and under are free)
Registration required.
Registration for this section has closed, please register for the remaining section with the appropriate link below
6:30 p.m.

Evening Woodland Walk (6:30pm)
2025-10-25 18:30 - 19:30
Join our guides as you wind your way through our enchanted woodlands learning about fascinating furred and feathered nocturnal neighbors including skunks, raccoons, owls, and foxes. Test your own nighttime hunting abilities through a series of family-friendly activities. And enjoy a mid-walk break at our inviting campfire where you will be treated to farm fresh hot chocolate and tasty treats.
Recommended for children 12 and under. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
This program is:
$10 per member,
$15 per non-member
(children age 3 and under are free)
Registration required.
Please Register Here

Evening Woodland Walk (6pm)
2025-10-25 18:00 - 19:00
Join our guides as you wind your way through our enchanted woodlands learning about fascinating furred and feathered nocturnal neighbors including skunks, raccoons, owls, and foxes. Test your own nighttime hunting abilities through a series of family-friendly activities. And enjoy a mid-walk break at our inviting campfire where you will be treated to farm fresh hot chocolate and tasty treats.
Recommended for children 12 and under. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
This program is:
$10 per member,
$15 per non-member
(children age 3 and under are free)
Registration required.

Evening Woodland Walk (5:30pm)
2025-10-25 17:30 - 18:30
Join our guides as you wind your way through our enchanted woodlands learning about fascinating furred and feathered nocturnal neighbors including skunks, raccoons, owls, and foxes. Test your own nighttime hunting abilities through a series of family-friendly activities. And enjoy a mid-walk break at our inviting campfire where you will be treated to farm fresh hot chocolate and tasty treats.
Recommended for children 12 and under. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
This program is:$10 per member,$15 per non-member(children age 3 and under are free)
Registration required.
Registration is now CLOSED for 5:30 p.m.,but we do have room at 6:30 p.m., please register with the link below
Please register here for 6:30

Evening Woodland Walk (5pm)
2025-10-25 17:00 - 18:00
This section is full, but we have space at 6:30pm
Join our guides as you wind your way through our enchanted woodlands learning about fascinating furred and feathered nocturnal neighbors including skunks, raccoons, owls, and foxes. Test your own nighttime hunting abilities through a series of family-friendly activities. And enjoy a mid-walk break at our inviting campfire where you will be treated to farm fresh hot chocolate and tasty treats.
Recommended for children 12 and under. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
This program is:$10 per member,$15 per non-member(children age 3 and under are free)
Registration required.
Please register for our other sections with the appropriate link below
6:30 p.m.

National Reptile Day - Animal Meet and Greet
2025-10-25 13:00 - 14:00
Join us in a celebration of the world’s reptiles. Come meet some of our resident turtles, snakes, and lizards and learn what makes each of them special.
This program is:Free for members!$10 per non-member family
Registration required.
Please Register Here

Succulent Pumpkin Arrangement Workshop
2025-10-24 19:00 - 20:00
Dive into the world of succulents and create a stunning fall arrangement. Enjoy expert guidance by Imaginariums by Elissa as you create your own stunning pumpkin succulent arrangement. Incorporate preserved flowers and lush mosses to add texture and color, perfect for bringing a touch of autumn beauty into your home. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a beginner, this workshop offers a fun and creative way to celebrate the season!
Ages 15+.
This program is:$50 per member,$60 per non-member
Registration required.
Please Register Here

Crocheting 101
2025-10-23 10:30 - 12:30
Join this beginner-friendly class designed to teach the basics of crochet, including how to hold a hook, make a foundation chain, and some basic stitches. No prior experience needed. Come with curiosity and questions. Bring your own supplies or borrow ours!
This program is: $15 per member, $25 per non-member
Registration required.
Please Register Here

Climate Hope with Dr. Stephen Wagener
2025-10-21 19:00 - 20:00
As the world warms, the changes we see across the globe will be both mild and severe. Despite the challenges human civilization will face from climate change, there is hope. Join Dr. Wagener, Climate Educator, Ecologist, and Professor of Biology at WCSU for a discussion on the scientific tools available to both understand and moderate those challenges. With creativity, determination, and courage, there is hope.
This program is:Free
Registration required.
Please Register Here

Harvest Festival
2025-10-18 11:00 - 15:00
Join us for an exciting day on the farm amidst the beautiful fall foliage. This fantastic family event will include historical demonstrations such as broom making and blacksmithing. There will be livestock encounters including sheep shearing, cow judging, visits with our calves, and a closeup view of our fascinating honeybees in their observation hive.
Sip hot apple cider and enjoy other tasty treats. Try your hand at harvest crafts, and so much more!
Our Special Guest:
Brian Bradley with Skyhunters in Flight
1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Brian returns with his spectacular falcons, hawks, and owls to demonstrate their glorious adaptations and hunting skills as they soar and dive over the pastures!
$10 per carload (includes parking and many free activities)
There will be small fees for craft tickets and food.
No Registration required. Please, no dogs.
MORE DETAILS

Little Learners: Little Artists (Ages 3-5)
2025-10-15 13:30 - 15:00
This program is now full, but we are taking a waiting list
3 Wednesdays: October 15, 22, & 29
Designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and foster a love of nature, the Little Learners monthly series are child-led, playful, and hands-on.
This program is:$45 per member,$60 per non-member
Registration is required.
Please Register Here for the Wait List

October Family Farm Chores
2025-10-12 14:30 - 15:30
This program is now full, but we are taking a waiting list
Dress for the outdoors and join farmers Mike and Rachel as they complete daily farm chores. Get a first hand look at everything it takes to keep our chickens, sheep and cows happy and healthy. After watching the milking process you might consider visiting the Dairy Annex to take home a delicious after-chores dairy treat.
Members only!
This program is:$10 per family
Registration required.
Please Register Here for the Wait List

October Nature Explorers (Grades K-2)
2025-10-09 16:00 - 17:00
This program is now full, but we are taking a waiting list
3 Thursdays: October 9, 16, & 23
Join us for this monthly 3-part series full of outdoor nature adventures. Each week we will explore the property and make exciting discoveries in our woodlands, wetlands, meadow, and gardens. May include hikes, games, animal encounters, campfires, and more. The focus is child-led, outdoor play.
This 3-part program is:$45 per member child,$60 per non-member child
Registration required.
Please Register Here for the Wait List
