Winter is here, and with its shorter, colder days, many of us are tempted to go into a modified “hibernation.” Hunkered down at home, we can get stuck in the doldrums of our daily routine. The good news is that when we feel that we just can’t binge-watch yet another series on our streaming service, there are other options—both at home and around town—to occupy and entertain us.
Home-based activities have always been popular, but they have become even more so since COVID-19 changed the landscape of our lives. Some activities, such as old favorites like doing jigsaw puzzles or playing solitaire, are solo pastimes, and others, like family game nights, need a group. Some group activities can be adapted to incorporate only those in our “bubble” or can even take place virtually. Happily, there are opportunities in Milford to maintain social distancing but get out and have some fun.
Board games are a longtime favorite for many, and Hawkwood Games, at 50 Broad Street, is an excellent resource for anyone in the mood for a game night…or day! The boardgame café has adapted its offerings to maintain health guidelines and still meet the needs of its patrons. “We’ve developed a monthly subscription service where subscribers can take out any game and use it for as long as they like, and when they return it can borrow another,” explains owner Ryan McConnell. “We have over 700 board games to choose from, and each game is ‘quarantined’ for the 72 hours recommended by the health department when returned.” McConnell adds that Hawkwood Games offers a number of virtual gaming options, including parties, trivia games, and an online Dungeons and Dragons community. Visit https://www.hawkwoodgames.com/ or call 203-465-9620 for more information.
For those who like to work with their hands, model-building can be a wonderful activity. HQ Hobbies, at 394 New Haven Avenue, is just the place to pick up kits for model airplanes, cars, and more. To learn more, visit https://www.hqhobbies.com/
The Milford Public Library is also an excellent option for local residents looking for engagement. Books, music, and videos are, of course, available to check out, and there is an e-book option for those who prefer to download and read their literature on a device. Library director Christine Angeli, recognizing the importance of the library in the lives of many, shared some of the initiatives that have been put into place for patrons, with COVID precautions in mind always.
“We have re-started some in-person book groups, with strict protocols in place, and have seen in-person book circulation make a comeback,” shares Angeli. “E-book circulation has skyrocketed, and curbside service has remained strong as well. Many patrons are seeking some normalcy, and sometimes the only other people they speak to during the day might be when they come to the library.” For those choosing to remain virtual, there are library programs available through Zoom, and there is even an option to obtain a library card online with the E-Library Card link. “We have been able to register over 1,000 Milford students through this program,” says Angeli. For more information about the Milford Public Library and their programming, please visit https://www.ci.milford.ct.us/milford-public-library
The Milford Arts Council (MAC) has been proactive in developing programming to enrich the lives of those living in Milford. Executive director Paige Miglio and her team have focused on providing a wide variety of online classes and experiences, “not just for artists but for anyone interested.” Miglio adds, “Arts are not only essential but are healing. We have visual arts classes, as well as dance and movement programs, and online performance experiences available virtually.”
MAC director of marketing Lorie Lewis echoed Miglio’s passion and enthusiasm. “The arts lift the spirit, heal the soul, and make the heart smile. We have been planning for virtual sessions and have developed the ‘Explore Your Inner Creative’ series, which has classes, sessions, and workshops in all avenues of the arts—visual, performing, and movement. Some are just one session and others are over the course of several weeks.” Those interested in the MAC can visit https://milfordarts.org/ for more information, and to learn more about the Explore Your Inner Creative series, visit https://milfordarts.org/explore-lp
Spending time in the great outdoors is a wonderful way to combat the dreariness of winter, and Milford has some wonderful opportunities to do just that. Mayor Ben Blake encourages people to participate in outdoor activities in Milford. “We have great hiking, walking, and biking trails, a new boardwalk at Beaverbrook, updated entrance at Mondo ponds, and of course the boardwalk at Walnut Beach is great. The Solomon property at 810 West River Street, which is the city’s largest outdoor open space, is great for hiking.” Mayor Blake adds that although most indoor activities have been cancelled or delayed, the Recreation Department is working on making outdoor facilities available and exploring the potential for outdoor sporting events for youth and adults.
With all of these options for enrichment, entertainment, engagement, and outdoor exercise, winter doesn’t need to be so dreary after all!
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