Founder’s Fair Will Feature Live Timber Wolves

WEST REDDING — On Saturday, May 20 (rain date May 21), from 11 am to 4 pm, New Pond Farm will host its annual celebration of the growing season and a tribute to their founder, Carmen Mathews. Visitors of all ages are welcome. For the safety and happiness of the animals who live at the farm, however, it is requested that visitors leave their dogs at home.

Traditional events will include Maypole dancing with students from the Wooster School and Morris dancing with the Mianus River Morris. There will be sheep shearing, spinning, and weaving.

There will also be over a dozen old-fashioned crafts to try, like making May baskets, floral headdresses, cornets, and kites. Additionally, there will be several rounds of hayrides with the farm’s Belgian draft horse.

Featured guests for the day will be two ambassador timber wolves and Amy and Michael LeBlanc from Wolf Talk.

The LeBlancs have been working with wolves in captivity, in zoos, and in the wild since 1978. The LeBlancs and the timber wolves have been featured across the country at museums, nature centers, and schools.

The LeBlancs will help to dispel myths and misconceptions about wolves. They will talk about their important role in the environment, and they will discuss efforts to reintroduce wolves into northern New England. Their program will begin at 11:30, and will be repeated at 2:30.

Admission to the festival is free. Refreshments will be available, and participants may also bring their own blankets and picnic lunches.

New Pond Farm is at 101 Marchant Road in West Redding. Call 203/938-2117 for additional information.