Local Services

Local Experiences

The best places and things to do in our area. Article by Megan Schinella Fairview Tree Farm Shelton - Magical night of holiday lights Christmas nighttime hayride! A 30-minute tractor pulled wagon through the decorated and lit tree fields and holiday scenes. Visit with Santa, Mrs. Claus, the Grinch. Sit by a cozy bonfire while sipping on tasty treats. Darien Sport Shop -  Dear Santa, I can explain… children can experience and share their wishes with Santa and show him their lists. A family...

Shopping

Gifts For The Host

Six gifts to thank those who make the season special Article by Anna Barnes The holidays have a way of filling our calendars with gatherings—cozy dinners, festive soirées, and impromptu get-togethers that remind us what the season is really about: connection . And while the joy of being invited is its own gift, showing up with a thoughtful token of appreciation for your host is a timeless gesture that never goes unnoticed. If you’ve ever been a host, you know it’s no small feat—it takes...

Shopping

Your Holiday Gift Guides

Simplify your shopping with gifts guaranteed to delight everyone this holiday season. Article by Anna Barnes The holiday season always seems to arrive in a whirlwind—between decorating, traveling, gatherings, and endless to-do lists, finding the perfect gift for everyone can feel impossible. Well, fear not. That’s where our annual holiday gift guides come in to save the season. Whether you’re shopping for her, him, or the kids, we’ve curated collections that make finding thoughtful, delightful...

Entertainment

Ask Leslie

Article by Leslie Kumar Posmentier What is an appropriate outfit to wear for an office holiday party? Is a short dress or skirt too inappropriate if you’re the youngest at the office?  Dear Youngest at the Office, How thoughtful of you to consider the vibe before the outfit. Here’s the thing: if you have to ask yourself whether it’s too short, it probably is. Go festive, not flirty. You want your outfit to spark compliments, not a group chat you’re left out of the next morning. Here are...

Entertainment

Nutcracker Magic Milestone

NEAD’s Nutcracker Marks a Milestone Article by Megan Schinella | Photography by Sarah Starling Each autumn, as the first delicate notes of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker drift through the studios of the New England Academy of Dance (NEAD) in New Canaan, the holiday season quietly awakens. Young dancers giggle as they twirl in angelic circles, while older students perfect elegant waltzes with the poise of seasoned performers. It’s a cherished rhythm that has filled these studios for four decades...

Local Services

Single Bells! Holiday Singles Soirée

Single Bells! Single Bells! Join us for a holiday soirée like no other, curated especially for the vibrant singles in our community by local matchmaker, Jill Dunn. This is an open-aged event. All are welcome!Join us at Spacecat Brewing, a unique space that combines otherworldly beer, striking architecture, and a selection of delicious food trucks with live music and the private "Whisker Room" just for us.And because 'tis the season of giving,*Bring a small wrapped gift to participate in the gift...

Local Services

Local Experiences

The best places and things to do in our area. Article by Megan Schinella Junior League of Greenwich —  empowering women by helping them develop civic leadership skills, voluntarism, and enhancing the community. Volunteers needed for Project Impact, Positively Me!, and various New Member projects.  Darien Community Association —  non profit community organization engage in their programs or visit their thrift shop. Volunteers needed for sorting, pricing, display, serving customers. United...

Local Services

Meet Leslie Kumar

The Voice Behind Ask Leslie! Article by Laura Sabia | Photography by Chris Bojanovich Ask Leslie! will be a go-to destination for readers looking for smart, relatable, and inspiring advice with a touch of sophistication and edge. Have a question about lifestyle, style, etiquette, entertaining, or everyday dilemmas? Now’s your chance to ask! Send your questions to Darien@citylifestyle.com  for a chance to be featured in an upcoming issue of Darien & New Canaan Lifestyle . No topic is too...

Travel

Paradise Perfected

A Florida Keys escape for families, foodies, and sun seekers Article by Laura Sabia When the air turns crisp in the Northeast, the Florida Keys beckon with sunshine, turquoise waters, and an unmistakable island charm. For families and couples alike, Isla Bella Beach Resort is redefining the luxury Keys experience. Nestled at the foot of the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, this 24-acre haven blends modern design, endless activities, and a true sense of relaxation making it one of the most exciting...

Food + Beverage

Maple Pumpkin Parfait

A Fall-Inspired Maple Pumpkin Granola With Pumpkin Yogurt Article by Alyssa Lavy, MS, RD, CDN | Photography by Alyssa Lavy, MS, RD, CDN Maple Pumpkin Granola Ingredients (yields approximately 4.5 cups or 18 – ¼ C servings): 2 ½ C rolled oats 1 C pumpkin seeds, hulled ½ C unsalted walnuts, chopped 2 Tbsp canned pumpkin puree (Note: the only ingredient should be pumpkin – this is different than pumpkin pie filling) 1 Tbsp water 2 Tbsp avocado oil or vegetable oil ½ C pure maple syrup...