Westport Museum for History and Culture

Drop-in Gingerbread Cookie Decorating!
2025-12-18 11:00 - 2025-12-19 17:00 (America/New_York) | Connecticut
Drop by during open hours and decorate an oversized gingerbread cookie (person or tree) to decorate and enjoy. Great for adults and kids!

We’ll provide everything you need: cookies, colorful icing, and plenty of candy for decorating as well as a decorative gift box to take them home. Our friendly staff will be on hand with tips and inspiration to help you create a sweet masterpiece.

Perfect for kids and parents, couples, or friends looking for a cheerful holiday activity, this event guarantees festive fun and a tasty keepsake to take home. Don’t wait—tickets are limited, and the cookies are calling!

Tickets are $8 per cookie or $15 per pair, $5/10 for members and includes all materials.

To support the museum and take advantage of membership discounts, please join today! Tickets are nonrefundable. In the event you must cancel, we will consider your purchase a donation and will happily issue you a donation receipt.

Westport Museum is accessible via public transit! The Westport-Saugatuck railroad station has connections on the MTA New Haven line from Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, and New Haven, and more. Uber 2.3 miles to the Museum or take the Norwalk Wheels bus transit system when available to Post Road West at Myrtle Avenue, which is a brief 7-minute walk from the Museum!

Generously sponsored by Alina’s Cakes & Cookies.

Gingerbread Cookie Decorating
2025-12-20 13:00 - 15:30 | Connecticut
Double the Cookies, Double the Fun! One ticket gets you two oversized gingerbread cookies (persons or trees) to decorate and enjoy. Bring your favorite cookie buddy—or keep both for yourself!

We’ll provide everything you need: cookies, colorful icing, and plenty of candy for decorating as well as a decorative gift box to take them home. Our friendly staff will be on hand with tips and inspiration to help you create a sweet masterpiece.

Perfect for kids and parents, couples, or friends looking for a cheerful holiday activity, this event guarantees festive fun and a tasty keepsake to take home. Don’t wait—tickets are limited, and the cookies are calling!

Tickets are $15 per pair, $10 for members and includes all materials. Reservations may be made at 1 pm or 2:30 pm; each workshop lasts for approximately 60 minutes. Workshops are limited to 6 pairs during each time slot, save your spot in the form below before we sell out!

To support the museum and take advantage of membership discounts, please join today! Tickets are nonrefundable. In the event you must cancel, we will consider your purchase a donation and will happily issue you a donation receipt.

Westport Museum is accessible via public transit! The Westport-Saugatuck railroad station has connections on the MTA New Haven line from Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, and New Haven, and more. Uber 2.3 miles to the Museum or take the Norwalk Wheels bus transit system when available to Post Road West at Myrtle Avenue, which is a brief 7-minute walk from the Museum!

Generously sponsored by Alina’s Cakes & Cookies.

The Real Revolution: Exhibit Opening!
2026-05-01 18:00 - 20:00 | Connecticut
A mother with sons on opposing side of a life-changing conflict. Enslaved men risking their lives for freedom. A woman posing as a man in the fight for liberty. These are just a few of the people who are explored in The Real Revolution, Westport Museum’s 2026 exhibit honoring the 250th anniversary of the founding of the nation.

The exhibit delves into the untold stories of the people who lived through the life-changing events of war and nation building. The exhibition includes an interactive playroom for kids, and a tavern room in which special events will be held.

Join us for the public opening, May 1st, at 6pm.

PopShop Market
2026-05-02 11:00 - 15:00 | Westport Museum for History & Culture, 25 Avery Place, Westport, CT, 06880, United States
Enjoy spring weather and shop local! On May 2nd the Westport Museum will be once again hosting our Popshop, featuring over 30 vendors with offerings from handmade clothing to one-of-a-kind knickknacks. Join us to support an incredible lineup of elevated small business vendors—perfect for finding thoughtful Mother’s Day gifts, something special for the girls, grads, teachers, or a little treat for yourself.

It’s the ultimate spring shopping experience in a beautiful setting—we can’t wait to see you there!

Westport Museum is accessible via public transit! The Westport-Saugatuck railroad station has connections on the MTA New Haven line from Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, and New Haven, and more. Uber 2.3 miles to the Museum or take the Norwalk Wheels bus transit system when available to Post Road West at Myrtle Avenue, which is a brief 7-minute walk from the Museum!

Park on Myrtle Avenue and Avery Place or behind Westport Town Hall or in the Baldwin Parking lot. Westport Museum is a 501(c)3 museum not affiliated with or funded by the Town of Westport. Please support our work by donating here.

Destination Westport: Path of Patriots
2026-05-03 11:00 - 12:00 | Connecticut
Discover the Heroes of the American Revolution during our Paths of Patriots Walking Tour!

Join us in one of Westport’s earliest cemeteries for a powerful exploration of our town’s Revolutionary War past.

Hear gripping tales of the day Green’s Farms burned, discover the resilience of everyday patriots, and uncover the extraordinary stories of enslaved Africans who risked everything in the hope of freedom and recognition.

This is more than a walk—it’s an immersive journey through the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs that shaped our nation. Experience Westport’s role in the Revolution like never before.

Space is limited—secure your tickets now and step into history!

Park on Nyala Farms Road and meet us at the marked green at the back entrance to the cemetery. The terrain is uneven, and with the possibility of warm weather, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing bottled water.

Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers, and pre-registration is required. Space is limited to just 25 participants per tour, so don’t wait! If demand is high, additional tours may be added. Should the tour sell out or if you’re interested in a private tour, please contact us at programming@westporthistory.org.

Please note, tickets are nonrefundable. If you need to cancel, your ticket will be considered a donation, and we’ll be happy to issue you a receipt for your generous contribution.

Join us for a compelling, immersive experience into Westport’s Revolutionary history—register today!

Westport Museum is a privately funded 501(c)3 museum not affiliated with or managed by Westport Town government. Please support our work by donating here.

Destination Westport: In Gatsby’s Shoes
2026-05-09 10:00 - 11:30 | Longshore Mariana, 260 Compo Rd S, Westport, Connecticut, 06880, United States
Step Into the Roaring Twenties: Fitzgerald’s Summer in Westport – A Tour Like No Other!

Picture this: It’s the summer of 1920, and Westport, a quiet farm town, becomes the summer escape for one of New York’s most glamorous couples—F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald. Seeking a breath of fresh air from their whirlwind Jazz Age lifestyle, the Fitzgeralds retreat to a charming 18th-century farmhouse, a silent witness to revolution and the birth of a nation.

In this idyllic setting, Zelda swims in the sparkling waters of the Long Island Sound, while Scott, inspired by the calm, works furiously on what would become his magnum opus—The Great Gatsby. The magic of this summer shaped his legendary novel, and now you have the chance to walk in the very footsteps that inspired one of the greatest American tales ever told.

Join us for a lively and immersive 90-minute tour through the stunning landscapes that once captivated the Fitzgeralds. As you stroll through the picturesque sites that influenced Scott’s writing, you’ll step back in time to a world of flappers, jazz, and literary genius. This isn’t just a tour—it’s a journey into the heart of the Jazz Age.

Be prepared for a vigorous, yet stunning walk through one of the East Coast’s most enchanting settings. Don’t forget to bring water and wear your most comfortable shoes for this unforgettable, Gatsby-esque adventure.

PARKING INFORMATION: Guests should park in Lot F at Longshore Club Park, just past the E.R. Strait marina. Park along the asphalt and dirt areas.

Tickets are $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers. Reservations are required, so be sure to secure your spot today! Space is limited to just 25 lucky guests per tour. Additional tours may be added if demand is high. If the tour sells out or you’re interested in a private tour, simply email programming@westporthistory.org.

Tickets are nonrefundable. If you need to cancel, your ticket will be considered a donation, and we will gladly issue you a donation receipt.

Don’t miss your chance to immerse yourself in the glamour and excitement of the Jazz Age! Register today and experience the magic of the Fitzgeralds’ Westport.

Westport Museum is accessible via public transit! The Westport-Saugatuck railroad station has connections on the MTA New Haven line from Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, and New Haven, and more. Uber 2.3 miles to the Museum or take the Norwalk Wheels bus transit system when available to Post Road West at Myrtle Avenue, which is a brief 7-minute walk from the Museum!

Park on Myrtle Avenue and Avery Place or behind Westport Town Hall or in the Baldwin Parking lot. Westport Museum is a privately funded 501(c)3 museum not affiliated with or managed by Westport Town government. Please support our work by donating here.

Generously Sponsored By:

National Treasure Hunt Heist Night
2026-05-16 16:00 - 19:00 | Connecticut
The National Treasure Hunt‘s HEIST NIGHT, is a new interactive experience! Come to the Westport Museum to test your skills in history, science, logic, trivia, and more as you work with a team to solve escape room-style puzzles in your quest to find a hidden object. Learn surprising new skills in an exciting evening out with your Heist Master, Aubrey Paris, creator of the National Treasure Hunt podcast, book, and tour. Recommended for ages 18+, but younger participants (especially the history-savvy) are also welcome!

Tavern Cooking Class at Wakeman Town Farm
2026-05-16 19:00 | Wakeman Town Farm, 134 Cross Highway, Westport, Connecticut, 06880, United States
Join us for an adult cooking class as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration conducted by culinary historian, chef and Westport Museum’s Executive Director, Ramin Ganeshram. The menu is inspired by tavern fare of the Revolutionary War era . After crafting the meal, we will sit down to enjoy dinner together in Tim’s Kitchen.

Menu

Pepper Pot – Slow-braised beef and vegetables with subtle heat and sweetness

Traditional Onion Pie

Spring Asparagus Salad

Chocolate Torte

Cordial: Cherry Bounce, a cherry liqueur with spices and spirits

After crafting the meal, we will sit down to enjoy dinner together in Tim’s Kitchen.

Class is BYOB.

Path of Patriots Walking tour
2026-05-23 10:00 - 23:00 | Connecticut
Discover the Heroes of the American Revolution during our Paths of Patriots Walking Tour!

Join us in one of Westport’s earliest cemeteries for a powerful exploration of our town’s Revolutionary War past.

Hear gripping tales of the day Green’s Farms burned, discover the resilience of everyday patriots, and uncover the extraordinary stories of enslaved Africans who risked everything in the hope of freedom and recognition.

This is more than a walk—it’s an immersive journey through the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs that shaped our nation. Experience Westport’s role in the Revolution like never before.

Park on Nyala Farms Road and meet us at the marked green at the back entrance to the cemetery. The terrain is uneven, and with the possibility of warm weather, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing bottled water.

Space is limited—secure your tickets now and step into history!

Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers, and pre-registration is required. Space is limited to just 25 participants per tour, so don’t wait! If demand is high, additional tours may be added. Should the tour sell out or if you’re interested in a private tour, please contact us at programming@westporthistory.org.

Please note, tickets are nonrefundable. If you need to cancel, your ticket will be considered a donation, and we’ll be happy to issue you a receipt for your generous contribution.

Join us for a compelling, immersive experience into Westport’s Revolutionary history—register today!

Westport Museum is a privately funded 501(c)3 museum not affiliated with or managed by Westport Town government. Please support our work by donating here.

Father's Day Card Making Drop In
2026-06-04 00:00 - 2026-06-20 23:59 | Connecticut
DIY a special card for the dads in your life at the Museum. Drop in anytime between 11am and 5pm Thursday, Friday or Saturday between June 4 and June 20th to make cards at the Museum.

Tickets $7 to cover supplies and museum admission*.

Vintage Flags from the Collection
2026-06-13 11:00 - 13:15 | Connecticut
Celebrate our nation’s flags and their history! Come and enjoy a special one-day guided exhibit of the fascinating flags in our collection, from our Civil War Era 35-star, hand-sewn flag to Westport’s own Bicentennial Flag presented to the town by Governor Ella Grasso, the first woman elected governor of Connecticut.

This is a special program from the Museum and is a family-friendly event for all ages. Ticket price: $10.00 per person, $7.00 for members. Two one-hour time slots.

Westport Museum is accessible via public transit! The Westport-Saugatuck railroad station has connections on the MTA New Haven line from Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, and New Haven, and more. Uber 2.3 miles to the Museum or take the Norwalk Wheels bus transit system when available to Post Road West at Myrtle Avenue, which is a brief 7-minute walk from the Museum!

Park on Myrtle Avenue and Avery Place or behind Westport Town Hall or in the Baldwin Parking lot. Westport Museum is a 501(c)3 museum not affiliated with or funded by the Town of Westport. Please support our work by donating here.

LGBTQ + Oral History Project
2026-06-22 08:00 - 2026-12-31 17:00 | Connecticut
For more than 50 years the Museum has been taking oral histories from the community. These valuable records give us first-person insight into the times in which people lived. We continue to build our collection of oral histories which inform research, exhibitions and programs with a special focus on areas that are underrepresented. One area that is lacking in our collection is material relating to the LGBTQ + experience. The Museum is currently focusing on building an archive of the LGBTQ+ experience for future historians to use. Oral histories taken by a talented group of young public historians is key to this effort.

If you would like to share your story we want to hear it! Email archives@westporthistory.org to sign up for one of these available slots:

Thursday & Friday : 2:00- 2:50pm; 3:00 – 3:50 pm; 4:00 to 4:50 pm

Saturday 11:00 to 11:50 am; 12:00 to 12:50 pm; 1:00 – 1:50 pm; 2:00 – 2:50 pm; 3:00- 3:50 pm; 4:00- 4:50 pm

Call for Oral Histories

Call for Oral Histories
2026-06-22 08:00 - 2027-11-30 17:00 | Connecticut
For more than 50 years the Museum has been taking oral histories from the community. These valuable records give us first-person insight into the times in which people lived. We continue to build our collection of oral histories which inform research, exhibitions and programs with a special focus on areas that are underrepresented. Oral histories taken by a talented group of young public historians is key to this effort. Open to all Fairfield County residents past and present.

If you would like to share your story we want to hear it! Please contact archives@westporthistory.org to sign up for one of these available slots:

Thursday & Friday : 2:00- 2:50pm; 3:00 – 3:50 pm; 4:00 to 4:50 pm

Saturday 11:00 to 11:50 am; 12:00 to 12:50 pm; 1:00 – 1:50 pm; 2:00 – 2:50 pm; 3:00- 3:50 pm; 4:00- 4:50 pm

Bicentennial Quilt Viewing
2026-06-27 11:00 - 17:00 | Connecticut
$10.00 per person, $7.00 for members, includes museum admission

Come see the historic work of Westport women in a selection from our quilt collection! Among the selections, we will be featuring two of our signature quilts. One, the Westport’s Bicentennial Quilt, was designed by famed local illustrator and artist Naiad Einsel. This 76×104 inch quilt was stitched by 33 local women and took over two years to produce. Also featured will be our Scribner Friendship Quilt, stitched in October 1850 and signed by 49 people from various prominent Westport families.

This is a special program from the Museum and is a family-friendly event for all ages.

Westport Museum is accessible via public transit! The Westport-Saugatuck railroad station has connections on the MTA New Haven line from Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, and New Haven, and more. Uber 2.3 miles to the Museum or take the Norwalk Wheels bus transit system when available to Post Road West at Myrtle Avenue, which is a brief 7-minute walk from the Museum!

Park on Myrtle Avenue and Avery Place or behind Westport Town Hall or in the Baldwin Parking lot. Westport Museum is a 501(c)3 museum not affiliated with or funded by the Town of Westport. Please support our work by donating here.

Path of Patriots Tour
2026-07-29 18:00 - 19:00 | Connecticut
Discover the heroes of the American Revolution during the Westport Museum’s Paths ofPatriots Walking Tour, part of its Real Revolution America 250 exhibition. Held in one ofWestport’s earliest cemeteries, this powerful program explores the town’s Revolutionary Warpast. Hear gripping stories of the day Green’s Farms burned, discover the resilience of localpatriots, and learn about enslaved Africans who risked everything in pursuit of freedom andrecognition.

Pickle Me This! Pickle Like It's 1776
2026-08-06 14:00 - 15:00 | Connecticut
Ages 8 and up

Family Friendly

You know pickles from the supermarket, but did you know you can easily make your own? Pickling is a historic way of preserving food to keep it from spoiling. Throughout history, cooks rich and poor pickled vegetables and fruit to have food all year long. Quick refrigerator pickles use only vinegar, sugar, salt, and your favorite flavorings. They don’t require a lot of ingredients or complicated know-how and can be kept in the refrigerator for your next picnic!

Learn how to make quick refrigerator pickles using just a few simple ingredients. Discover some of the history and the science behind pickling and take home a jar you have made. You will even be able to create your own logo to put on your jar. All materials supplied by the Museum.

Westport Museum is accessible via public transit! The Westport-Saugatuck railroad station has connections on the MTA New Haven line from Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, and New Haven, and more. Uber 2.3 miles to the Museum or take the Norwalk Wheels bus transit system when available to Post Road West at Myrtle Avenue, which is a brief 7-minute walk from the Museum!

Park on Myrtle Avenue and Avery Place or behind Westport Town Hall or in the Baldwin Parking lot. Westport Museum is a 501(c)3 museum not affiliated with or funded by the Town of Westport. Please support our work by donating here.

Pickle Me This: Workshop 2
2026-08-07 14:00 - 15:00 | Connecticut

Tis a Far Butter Thing...Butter Churning!
2026-08-14 14:00 - 15:00 | Connecticut
Ages 8 and Up

Butter is something you probably eat every day. You might spread it on your toast or melt it over your popcorn, but did you know that you can make it with just one ingredient and some elbow grease? If you’ve never tasted fresh homemade butter, this is your chance. You may never go back to the supermarket for it again!

Learn how to churn butter by hand and make sweet or salted butter to take home. Discover some of the history of butter and how 18th Century Americans created different flavors to use in both sweet and savory recipes. They even used salted butter as a form of payment. Learn about early American recipes, like colonial Fairy Butter and why some early Americans believed in ‘bewitched’ butter and what they did about it! All materials supplied by the Museum.

Learn how to churn butter by hand and make sweet or salted butter to take home. Discover some of the history of butter and how 18th Century Americans created different flavors to use in both sweet and savory recipes. They even used salted butter as a form of payment. Learn about early American recipes, like colonial Fairy Butter and why some early Americans believed in ‘bewitched’ butter and what they did about it! All materials supplied by the Museum.

Westport Museum is accessible via public transit! The Westport-Saugatuck railroad station has connections on the MTA New Haven line from Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, and New Haven, and more. Uber 2.3 miles to the Museum or take the Norwalk Wheels bus transit system when available to Post Road West at Myrtle Avenue, which is a brief 7-minute walk from the Museum!

Park on Myrtle Avenue and Avery Place or behind Westport Town Hall or in the Baldwin Parking lot. Westport Museum is a 501(c)3 museum not affiliated with or funded by the Town of Westport. Please support our work by donating here.
