Getting together without getting together

Gathered by Jude Mead

This holiday season enjoy virtual talks and entertainment. The following is a list of just some of the great possibilities for you and your family. 

The following events are sponsored by the Norfolk Library. Go to norfolklibrary.org to register.

A Virtual Carol Sing

The Norfolk Library Annual Carol Sing will be virtual this year, in the form of an online holiday greeting. A prerecorded video will be available on the library website and available for access anytime.

Modern Calligraphy Workshop
It’s almost time for holiday cards! Make yours special with the popular and playful Modern Calligraphy workshop, taught by calligrapher Debby Reelitz on Dec. 2 ,from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Iceland Through My Heart with Gerri Griswold

Take a one hour trip 66 degrees north on Dec. 3, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., and be overwhelmed by the landscape, nature and people of this breathtaking country which boasts 100 percent literacy, is the home of the first parliament established in A.D. 930 and possesses the cleanest air and water on our planet.

Greenwich Village: Historical & Literary Tour

For well over a century Greenwich Village has been a neighborhood of writers, actors, artists and musicians. On Dec. 13, from 3 to 4 p.m., together we will explore how this rich cultural neighborhood went from a sleepy farming community to a hub for the likes of Mark Twain, O. Henry, F. Scott Fitzgerald and many modern day celebrities. A virtual tour.

The following events are sponsored by White Memorial Conservation Center. Go to whitememorialcc.org to register.

Virtual Star Party: Astro Imaging with Joe Dougherty

Astro Imagers attempts to reveal the wonders of our universe using a variety of cameras, telescopes and computer software. On Dec. 4, at 7 p.m., see how these masterpieces are created.

“A Child’s Christmas in Wales”: Virtual Reading with John Dankosky, Diane Smith, David K. Leff and Gerri Griswold

“A Child’s Christmas in Wales,” by Dylan Thomas, is an anecdotal reminiscence of Christmas from the viewpoint of a young boy, portraying a nostalgic and simpler time. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and a cozy blanket and snuggle in to listen to this classic on Dec. 5, from 6 to 7:15 p.m.

Wildlife in Winter, with Education Director Carrie Szwed

What strategies do animals employ to get through harsh winter conditions? Using natural props, animal mounts, a story and a couple of live animals, children will learn how some animals in Connecticut remain active in winter while others hibernate, migrate or go into torpor. This program runs from 2 to 3 p.m. on Dec. 17.

Christmas Around the World with Puppeteer Robin McCahill

On Dec. 19, from 10 to 11:30 a.m, travel around the world with artist and puppeteer Robin McCahill as she introduces you to the many characters of Christmas in this one-hour presentation suitable for kids of all ages. Meet Italy’s Befana, a Christmas witch. Iceland has twelve Santas called the Yule Lads with names like Meat-Hook, Spoon-Licker and Door-Slammer. Head off to Eastern Europe for a visit with the very spooky Krampus. 

The Science and Indigenous Folklore of Santa and His Reindeer with Arctic Explorer Moki Kokoris

The program will feature little-known facts about the origins of Santa, the colors of his suit, his “flying” reindeer and Rudolph’s red nose. Find out why Santa comes down chimneys; learn about reindeer games, elf boots and other amusing trivia and fun facts that are associated with many of our well-known holiday traditions. (All of Santa’s secrets are guaranteed to be kept safe.) This program takes place on Dec. 19, from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Theater—go to Playbill.com to register

The Best of Broadway
This virtual program on Dec. 10, at 10 p.m., will be hosted by Tina Fey and features Broadway cast members from “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations,” “Mean Girls,” “Jagged Little Pill,” and more. 

Music—go to Bushnell.org to register

Comfort and Joy at home with Jim Brickman

On Dec. 12, at 7 p.m., Jim Brickman will bring the live concert experience up close and personal by blending yuletide memories and holiday carols with his own hit songs.

Yale Summer School of Music—go to music.yale.edu

Chamber Music Concerts

The digital concert hall is always open for you to stream past performances anytime.