Native Cooking, Owls, Pet Visits with Santa, and More in Groton This Weekend

Norwich WinterFest 5K
Saturday, 10:30 a.m. - There will be a Free FitKids run at 10:30 a.m. (registration is required) and a 5K run at 11 a.m. There will be an awards ceremony at noon and a WinterFest parade to follow. Visit http://www.hartfordmarathon.com/Events/Norwich_Winterfest_5K.htm for registration and volunteer information.

Native Cooking on the Farmstead
Saturday, 11 a.m. - Stop by the 17th c. Pequot Farmstead to sample traditional Native food cooked over an open fire. Talk with Toni Weeden (Narragansett) who has a reputation for making delicious one-pot meals. The event is free with museum admission, and is free to museum members.

Celebration of Lights and Song and Holiday Tree Lighting
Saturday, 4 p.m. - Downtown New London will come alive with holiday cheer on Saturday when New London Main Street presents its annual Celebration of Lights and Song. This year, the tree lighting takes place on Small Business Saturday, which is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses across the country. Many retailers will offer specials such as refreshments or free gift wrapping with purchase. The event will also feature a visit with Santa in the little red schoolhouse and some classic holiday storybook characters, including the Nutcracker and Sugarplum Fairy. The holiday tree lighting with Mayor Finizio, music performances and caroling will take place on lower Parade Plaza near the Water Street Parking Garage at 5 p.m. The event is free and is open to everyone. For more information, visit newlondonmainstreet.org or call 860-444-2489.

Horizon Wings Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Presents: Owls with a Reading of Baby Owl Rescue
Sunday, 2 p.m. - Are you ready to meet owls? Great for nature lovers, the kids and those wanting to be around amazing creatures. Join for a reading of the children's book Baby Owl Rescue followed by an hour presentation featuring three rescued owls. Admission is free. 

Pet Visits with Santa
Sunday, 6:30 p.m. - The four-legged family members and other pets of the family are invited to join in the holiday fun at Crystal Mall and have their own turn on Santa's lap on Sunday on Dec. 1. This is the purr-fect chance to capture a moment of your pet celebrating Christmas cheer. This special pet-friendly opportunity is in addition to Santa's regular hours. All pets must be leashed or crated.