Several Wilton organizations have incorporated observance of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday in their activities. Here are a few for residents looking for activities both fun and educational for the day, which falls next Monday, Jan. 18.
[Updated 1:15 p.m. Jan. 14]
Wilton Historical Society
Honor His Dream: Birds of Peace project for children on Dr. Martin Luther King Day
Monday, Jan. 18 is an important day in United States history as it celebrates the life and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He is best remembered as leading the African-American Civil Rights Movement, in its quest for equal rights and fair treatment for all, regardless of race or skin color. Of equal importance, is that as the son of a minister, he advocated through acts of faith and non-violence. He was a fiercely passionate believer in education, earning two bachelor’s degrees and a Ph.D. and in 1964, was the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.
The Wilton Historical Society will offer a way to mark the day for children, with a storytime reading of Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rapport, and a hands-on activity to celebrate his birthday – making ‘Birds of Peace’ — on Monday, Jan. 18, from 11 a.m.–noon.
Monday, Jan. 18 is also the final day of the Great Trains Holiday Exhibit. The MLK day activity is free with admission to the train show, open 10 a.m.– 4 p.m..
The Wilton Historical Society is located at 224 Danbury Rd./Rt 7.
Ambler Farm
Ambler Farm Holds Martin Luther King Day of Service Food Drive
Ambler Farm is holding its 8th Annual Food Drive on Monday, Jan. 18, 8 a.m.-noon, in honor of the national Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. Ambler Farm will be collecting items for Wilton Social Services.
Volunteers will be on hand from 8 a.m.-noon at the White Carriage Barn to accept contributions. Organizers are asking Wilton residents to please consider donating paper goods, cleaning supplies, personal care items and non-perishable food items. They remind anyone donating to please check expiration dates to make sure items are not expired or soon to be expired (within 6 months).
Wilton Family YMCA
The Wilton Family YMCA is open and invites residents to stay active and enjoy family time together when school is out of session. “When school’s out, you and your family can stay active and enjoy time together at the Wilton Family YMCA branch! Take a dip in our two swimming pools, shoot some baskets in the gym, hit some balls in the racquet ball court, sample several of our group exercise classes (babysitting available) and work out in the state-of-the-art fitness center.”
Open Swim hours:
- 25-yard pool: 11 a.m.–1:15 p.m.; 5–6:30 p.m.; 7:30–10 p.m.
- 50-meter pool: 1:30–3 p.m.
Open Gym hours: 11:30 a.m.–noon; 1:15–4:45 p.m.; 5:45 p.m.–9 p.m.
Group Fitness Classes: Visit the Wilton Family Y website for a complete listing of classes
Happy Hands Art and Pottery
Happy Hands Art and Pottery is holding a “No School Camp” on Monday, Jan. 18. Snack and lunch (nut free) is included with the pottery painting and activities.
Morning camp, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $50/camper
Afternoon camp 2-5 p.m. $50/camper
Full Day 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $90/camper
10% off for siblings
Reservations are required by email.
Wilton Library
Wilton Library will be closed Monday, Jan. 18, in observance of MLK day.