Annual Gala and Silent Auction.
When: Friday, February 27th, 2026, 5:30 - 8:30 pm
Where: The Litchfield Inn, 432 Bantam Rd, Litchfield, CT 06759
An evening of fun with friends and neighbors Passed Hors-d'Oeuvres, door prizes, silent auction, and music.
Week of Event Rate: $100
Must be 21 or older to attend.
Tickets may be purchased at the door.
Live Music by :
Myron and the Jam Fam
Myron Yousman - vocals and guitar
With some of the finest drummers and bassists in Connecticut
Entertainment Sponsored by :
Featuring Craft Chocolatier:
Craft Wine & Beer Sponsored by :
Thank you to our sponsors!
Gregory & Julie Miller
Lindsey & Jon Rotolo
Paula & Jim O'Neil
Seabourne & Malley, Attorney's At Law
Dirty Dog Farm
Tony Gioia of The Washington Agency
Black Barn Bespoke Furniture
Sheila Caselas
Thank you to the following community members for your support:
Chris LaCava of CB Moves Realty
Thorncrest Farm & Milk House Chocolates
Arethusa Farm Foundation
Toast & co.
Cloud Based Payroll, LLC
Julie Murrone
Litchfield Hills Fitness
Michael Bayette
Hungry Reaper Farm
E.J. Murphy Realty, LLC
George Seabourne
NKYV rituals
Bravenly™
Thomaston Opera House
Barron Financial Group, LLP
L-Atelier
Wilson's by High Watch
Litchfield Hills Ford
The Nutmeg Spice Company
Spa At Litchfield Hills
TPC Windows and Siding
Snoogs & Wilde
Liberty Art & Framing
Passaflora Naturopathic Medicine
Joanna & Will Wesson
James O'Neil Jr.
Classroom Projects
Young People's Community
Bird House
This charming birdhouse has been lovingly decorated by the children of our Young People’s Community. Using their thumbprints to create colorful designs, our youngest learners explored sensory experience, coordination, and joyful self-expression. Each tiny print reflects the beauty of early Montessori work: hands-on discovery, creativity, and pride in contribution.
A gift from the Young People’s Community
Children's House
Mandala
Created by our Children’s House students, this beautiful mandala reflects the foundational elements of Montessori work: concentration, order, coordination, and a deep appreciation for beauty. Through careful placement of color and pattern, each child contributed with intention and focus, embodying the Montessori principles of purposeful work and community collaboration.
A gift from Children’s House
Lower Elementary
Map of Mudville
Take home a treasured piece of LMS History. Lower Elementary children have designed and decorated their own map of "Mudville", the Roxaboxen for many Litchfield Montessori Alumni.
A gift from Lower Elementary
Upper Elementary
Framed Paper Quilling Peace Project
Created by our Upper Elementary students, this beautiful quilled artwork features intricately rolled and shaped paper arranged in the form of a peace sign. Each carefully placed coil reflects the creativity, patience, and collaboration of our students. A meaningful symbol of unity and hope, this one-of-a-kind piece is a wonderful way to celebrate the artistry and spirit of our school community.
A gift from Upper Elementary
Enter for a chance to win one of our Classroom Projects!
Group Experiences:
Spaces limited
Group Experiences are not traditional silent auction items! Each has a limited number of spots and will no longer be available once they fill up.
After pre-bidding ends on Monday, any remaining spots will be made available in person only at the event.
These options are for purchase at this time.
Whiskey & Three Course BBQ Tasting
Treat yourself to an unforgettable night of bold flavors and smooth pours at Cowboy Butter, New Milford’s newest BBQ destination. This exclusive experience includes a three-course tasting menu paired with fine whiskey and bourbon for up to four guests.
Sign up with a friend, or claim all four spots and bring your own crew out for an evening of delicious BBQ and great spirits. Cowboy Butter is owned by LMS parent Jeff Schmidt, so expect a warm welcome and a truly special night out.
Conditions: Participants will arrange a date directly with Jeff. Must be 21+ to participate.
A gift from LMS parent, Jeff Schmidt
$150 per person
(4) spots available
A Walk with Monika and Milo
Take a walk with Elementary's favorite duo, Monika and Milo. 6 lucky participants are invited to join M&M for a snack and a walk in the back woods of LMS on April 15th, 2026. Open to Lower and Upper Elementary children.
A gift from Monika Geerling, LE Assistant & Art Specialist
$80 per student
(6) spots available
Festa!
Please join us for our annual Festa Italiana. In tribute to Maria Montessori, a delicious Italian meal will be created by our marvelous Elementary chef corps! This event will take place during the last week of our school year. We hope to dine Al Fresco, otherwise we will be in the Great Hall. We guarantee a wonderful social and dining experience! Grazie!
A gift from Grail Kearney, LE Directress and Monika Geerling, LE Assistant & Art Specialist
$50 per person
(4) spots available
Sleepover at LMS
(Open to 2nd - 6th Year Children)
All the fun of a sleepover, at school! Reserve a spot for your child which includes one LMS friend of their choice, dinner, popcorn, and a movie. Friday, April 24th, 2026 after school. Pick-up at 10AM the next morning. Open to (2nd - 6th Year) Elementary children.
A gift from Gina Hepp, UE Assistant & Music Specialist, and Diane Hart, Head of School
$200 per pair
(LMS students + LMS friends, 2nd - 6th years)
(7) spots available
Dinner at the Head of School's House
Join Head of School, Diane Hart, to enjoy an intimate surf and turf dinner on Friday, May 8th, at her residence on Arethusa Farm Foundation. Bill Davenport, Executive Director of the Foundation will join us as well and give a tour of the farm! Drinks and apps start at 6pm, dinner at 7pm. Vegetarian and gluten free options available upon request.
A gift from Mike Tanner, personal chef and LMS parent
$150 per person
spots for (8) couples available
Montessori Marvels
Student Head of School for a Day
Winning bid for Student Head of School gives one young Montessorian a day of administrative experience! Do some work at the Head's desk, hold an important lunch meeting with a friend and staff member of your choice, plan for an important school decision, and enjoy other special perks, like buzzing in visitors! Open to Extended Day and Elementary.
A gift from Diane Hart, Head of School
Starting Bid : $75
Lunch By Kate
A week of fun, healthy lunches for your LMS child(ren) by Upper Elementary Guide, Kate Gnitzcavich. For one week, Kate will provide and pack school lunches, including some of your child(ren)'s favorite foods and some new things for them to try! This auction item is to be redeemed by Elementary Students.
A gift from Kate Gnitzcavich, Upper Elementary Guide
Starting Bid : $75
One Month of Farm Fresh Eggs
Pick up your farm-fresh eggs when you pick up your child at LMS! Grail Kearney will collect eggs from her hens and keep you supplied with these incredible, edible eggs for an entire month.
A gift from Grail Kearney, LE Directress and Christian Canfield
Starting Bid : $45
Breakfast for Your Class with Betsy
Serve up a special breakfast for your child's class with the culinary stylings of our Assistant Head of School, Betsy Johnson. This coveted offering brings the gift of a delicious breakfast at school to the winning bidder's classroom.
A gift from Betsy Johnson
Starting Bid : $50
Silent Auction Sneak Peek
Blue Topaz and Diamond Cluster necklace by ONYX Jewelers
Elegant and eye-catching, this 14K yellow gold necklace showcases 2.14 carats of multi-shade blue topaz accented by 0.11 carats of sparkling diamonds. Suspended from an adjustable 16–18" chain, this beautiful piece adds a touch of brilliance and sophistication to both everyday wear and special occasions.
A gift from ONYX Jewelers
Starting Bid : $800
Two Tickets to Boston Red Sox Game Behind Home Plate!
Take yourself out to the ball game! Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon at historic Fenway Park with two incredible tickets in Section 51, Row B behind home plate (Seats 1 & 2) as the Boston Red Sox take on the Tampa Bay Rays on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at 1:35 PM.
A gift from LMS alumni parents, Julie & Trustee Greg Miller
Starting Bid : $150
Two Tickets to Boston Red Sox Game Behind Third Base!
A second opportunity to take yourself, or a friend out to the ball game! Two tickets in Field Box 60 Row B behind thrid base, Seats 1 and 2, at Boston's Fenway Park on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at 1:35pm when the Red Sox play the Tampa Bay Rays.
A gift from LMS alumni parents, Julie & Trustee Greg Miller
Starting Bid : $150
Dirty Dog Farm Mini Beef Share
The Mini Beef Share is 20 pounds of 100% grass-fed and 100% grass-finished beef, from the Hudson Valley
Contains: 2 ribeye steaks, 2 other steaks (london broil, chuck, sirloin tip), 2 packages of stew/kabob meat, 1 shoulder roast, and 8 lbs of 85/15 ground beef.
https://dirtydogfarm.com/
A gift from LMS parent, Nicole Matthews
Starting Bid : $100
Weekend Away at Gedney Farm in New Marlborough, MA
Escape to the Berkshires with a weekend stay at Gedney Farm in New Marlborough, Massachusetts, a cultural destination known for its rustic elegance, gallery-quality art exhibitions, pop-up film events, and renowned Sommelier Series wine and beer dinners. Enjoy easy access to Great Barrington, just 15 minutes away. Less than an hour from Litchfield, this getaway is perfect for a peaceful retreat: bring the kids and the dog, or enjoy a quiet weekend away.
A gift from LMS alumni parents, Trustee Lindsey & Jon Rotolo
Starting Bid : $150
Antique Writing Chest
This elegant writing chest would have traditionally been used for calligraphy, blending beauty and function. It is a wonderful piece for collectors and admirers of Asian art.
A gift from Anastasio Home
Starting Bid : $35
The Spirit of Childhood
by LMS Elementary Children
Bring home this Jackson Pollock -inpired work of art created for the "Joy" art show this year by our Elementary children.
A gift from Monika and the LMS Elementary Children
Starting Bid : $100
New Baby Gift Basket
Welcome a little one with this beautifully curated new baby basket! It features a charming handmade Winnie the Pooh–themed quilt, a cozy handmade afghan, and an adorable collection of Pooh treasures, including: Pooh books and stuffed friends, a keepsake baby book, and a sweet frame for capturing special memories. A thoughtful blend of comfort, keepsakes, and essentials, perfect for celebrating a precious new arrival.
A gift from LMS parent, Jennifer Samela and grandparent, Margaret Samela
Starting Bid : $80
Timex Gift Bag
This gift set features a classic Timex Marlin watch, known for its refined style and everyday versatility. Also included are a watch/jewelry travel case for safekeeping on the go, a sleek water bottle, and a sturdy umbrella, making this a thoughtful bundle of accessories perfect for work, travel, or daily life.
A gift from LMS alumni parents, Joanna and Will Wesson
Starting Bid : $70
Trout Watercolor Print
by Sarah Martinez of Snoogs & Wilde
Includes a colorful 12" x 12" archival fine art print of a trout made with pigment based ink on cotton paper.
A gift from LMS alumni parent, Sarah Martinez of Snoogs & Wilde
Starting Bid : $50
Vintage Wooden Table Chest
Featuring a hinged, dome-top lid and metal reinforcement fittings, this chest includes a central metal latch for securing the lid. Use it as a jewelry box, trinket case, or for storing small personal keepsakes.
A gift from Anastasio Home
Starting Bid : $35
One Week at Arethusa Farm 4H Camp
Give the gift of a meaningful summer adventure at Arethusa Farm 4-H Camp! Held on the scenic Arethusa Farm Foundation property in Litchfield, CT, this hands-on week of camp immerses children in agricultural discovery and outdoor learning. Campers ages 5–13 explore farm animals, horticulture, environmental science, and more under the guidance of expert educators and 4-H youth leaders. From caring for animals and working in gardens to learning about sustainability and farm life, this experience builds confidence, curiosity, and lasting memories.
A gift from Arethusa Farm Foundation
Starting Bid : $100
Parent–Child Coaching Package with Diane Toney of Conscious Corner Mental Health Counseling, PLLC (3 Sessions)
Support your family through the often-challenging transition from pre-teen to teen years with a personalized coaching package rooted in Montessori principles. This package includes three 45-minute sessions designed to help parents: Strengthen communication and connection, navigate emotional ups and downs with confidence, foster independence while maintaining healthy boundaries, and understand behavior through a developmental, Montessori-aligned lens. A supportive, practical way to bring more harmony, trust, and clarity into this pivotal stage of your child’s growth.
A gift from LMS parent and Trustee, Nijah Brown
Starting Bid : $100
Toast & Co. Basket
Enjoy the best of local flavor and cozy style with this Toast & Co. Gift Basket! Includes a gift card redeemable at Toast & Co. or Crumbs, plus a comfy sweatshirt, winter beanie, baseball hat, and a bag of coffee to enjoy at home.
A gift from Toast & Co
Starting Bid : $45
A Night on the Town : Dinner & a Show at Thomaston Opera House and @ The Corner
Head out for a night on the town! This package includes a Flex Pass for 4 to a production at Thomaston's historic Landmark Community Theater and a gift card for dinner at @the Corner in Litchfield.
Conditions: Flex Pass ticket holders may select: 1 ticket to 4 shows, 2 tickets to 2 shows, or 4 to 1 show. Passes are valid on theatrical productions only.
A gift from LMS grandparents, Jayne and Keith "Red" Lanphear of @the Corner and Restaurant and Jeff Dunn of Landmark Community Theater
Starting Bid : $100
Thorncrest Farm, LLC & Milk House Chocolates
Once again, the rich tradition of Connecticut's dairy farming brings us delight with a selection of chocolates from Thorncrest Farm and Milk House Chocolates. Using all natural flavors and the very best cocoa, these chocolates are made in small batches with milk from their own dairy in Goshen.
A gift from Thorncrest Farm and Milk House Chocolates
Starting Bid : $50
Antique Wooden Artist's Box
Bring home this antique artist's paint box, likely dating from the late 19th to early 20th century. These portable wooden cases were specifically designed for artists to carry supplies such as oil paints, brushes, and palettes while traveling or working outdoors.
A gift from Anastasio Home
Starting Bid : $35
Lemons and Limes, Framed Watercolor
Bring the tastes of summer to your home decor with this still life watercolor, featuring a glass bowl of lemons and limes, this work is donated by talented artist and LMS grandparent, Julie Murrone. Includes frame.
A gift from LMS grandparent, Julie Murrone
Starting Bid : $50
80 Minute Swedish Massage
Relax, restore, and recharge with an 80-minute massage at The Spa at Litchfield Hills, a serene retreat dedicated to wellness and relaxation perfect for relieving muscle tension, easing stress, and leaving you feeling refreshed and renewed.
A gift from The Litchfield Spa
Starting Bid : $70
Two Tickets to The Simon & Garfunkel Story at Warner Theatre
Two Tickets to The Simon & Garfunkel Story at Warner Theatre
Relive the timeless music and incredible journey of folk-rock legends Simon & Garfunkel with The Simon & Garfunkel Story, an immersive concert-style theatre experience featuring a full live band and all the unforgettable hits. Enjoy this special performance at Warner Theatre’s Oneglia Auditorium in Torrington, CT on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 7:30 PM.
A gift from Warner Theatre
Starting Bid : $30
Six-Month Membership to Litchfield Hills Fitness
Get active and inspired with a 6-month membership to Litchfield Hills Fitness, your destination for health and wellness in Litchfield, CT. This gift certificate gives you access to a full range of amenities and offerings, including state-of-the-art cardio and strength equipment, daily group fitness classes, and the support of experienced trainers to help meet personal fitness goals. Whether you’re beginning a wellness journey or leveling up your routine, this membership is an excellent way to stay motivated and achieve lasting results.
A gift from Litchfield Hills Fitness
Starting Bid : $60
Flaming Box Elder Charcuterie Board
Beautifully crafted from richly figured flaming box elder, this one-of-a-kind charcuterie board features striking natural grain and warm tones that make it as much a statement piece as it is a serving essential. Perfect for entertaining, gifting, or elevating your next gathering.
A gift from James O'Neill
Starting Bid : $80
The Nutmeg Spice Company Grilling Basket
Get ready to fire up your grill with this BBQ spice basket from family owned The Nutmeg Spice Company. Crafted with a tantalizing blend of savory spices and BBQ essentials, this basket is sure to elevate your grilling game and delight taste buds all summer long.
A gift from The Nutmeg Spice Company
Starting Bid : $40
Antique Wooden Miniature Chest of Drawers
This charming vintage miniature chest of drawers features beautifully detailed inlay, with striking checkerboard marquetry patterns across the drawer fronts, an eye-catching decorative piece for any collector or tabletop display.
A gift from Anastasio Home
Starting Bid : $35
Viron Rondos Osteria Gift Certificate
Enjoy elegant dining inside or out with this gift certificate to the eyepoping Mediterranean island that is Viron Rondo Osteria in Cheshire. Serving food which is meticulously sourced from local farms and butchers, this is a dining experience not to be missed!
A gift from LMS alumni parents, Denada & Viron Rondo
Starting Bid : $50
Hummingbird Watercolor Print
by Sarah Martinez of Snoogs & Wilde
Includes a colorful 12" x 12" archival fine art print of a hummingbird made with pigment based ink on cotton paper.
A gift from LMS alumni parent, Sarah Martinez of Snoogs & Wilde
Starting Bid : $50
Diamond Glow Facial
Enjoy the ultimate beauty refresh with a Diamond Glow Facial, an advanced treatment that exfoliates, extracts, and infuses skin with targeted serums for immediate, radiant results, paired with Henna Brow Tinting, a natural, long-lasting treatment that beautifully defines brows for weeks.
A gift from NKYV Rituals
Starting Bid : $90
Hungry Reaper Farm
Indulge in farm-fresh delights with a gift certificate for Hungry Reaper Farm's CSA in Morris, CT. Taste the difference of locally grown produce this spring and summer!
A gift from Hungry Reaper Farm
Starting Bid : $75
Two Tickets to Red Hot Chilli Pipers at Warner Theatre
Two Tickets to Red Hot Chilli Pipers at The Warner Theatre
Experience a night of Bagrock! The world-renowned Red Hot Chilli Pipers bring their high-energy fusion of rock and bagpipes to the historic Warner Theatre in Torrington, CT on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 7:30 PM. These dynamic performers blend traditional Scottish pipes with contemporary rock anthems for a one-of-a-kind show that delights audiences of all ages.
A gift from Warner Theatre
Starting Bid : $30
Whimsical "Seasick" Serving Boards (set of 2)
Made from Eastern Curly Maple and African Paduk, this pair of hand made serving boards will become a conversation piece and heighten the aesthetic of any kitchen.
A gift from LMS parent and Trustee, John Ducci
Starting Bid : $80
STIHL MS 251 Chainsaw
Tackle yard work and storm cleanup with confidence with this STIHL MS 251 chainsaw, featuring an 18-inch bar for powerful, reliable cutting performance. A great tool for homeowners designed for efficiency and ease of use while handling everything from trimming limbs to cutting firewood.
A gift from LMS alumni parents, Julie & Trustee Greg Miller
Starting Bid : $100
Antique Wooden Secretarial Box
This handsome antique wooden secretarial box features a warm, timeworn patina with small drawers and compartments, perfect for storing letters, documents, or treasured keepsakes. Both functional and decorative, this piece brings old-world character to a desk, study, or bookshelf.
A gift from Anastasio Home
Starting Bid : $35
L'Atelier Spa Basket
L'ATELIER des artistes, located in New Hartford CT, is a holistic concept studio, spa & wellness center, with a curated boutique of sustainable goods and organic cosmetics. Included in the basket: gift card, hand made toddler winter hat, a bath bomb, and organic holistic mist & roll-on.
A gift from L’ ATELIER
Starting Bid : $40
White Oak Natural Void Tray
Made from local salvaged white oak, this board is one of a kind and features a natural void that has been filled with epoxy. Use it as a decorative piece on your coffee table or as a tea tray.
A gift from craftsman and LMS parent, John Ducci
Starting Bid : $100
Onlyfly FHD Bird Feeder Cam
Experience bird watching on a whole new level with this Onlyfly FHD Smart Bird Feeder Camera.
A gift from LMS alumni parents, Julie & Trustee Greg Miller
Starting Bid : $80
Passiflora 2-hour Appointment
Similarly to the way Montessori focuses on the whole child, a Naturopathic Doctor focuses on the whole person to restore your body's natural state of wellness. Gift yourself or someone you love to an initial consultation with Dr. Karen Tyson, a long time LMS community member, and Naturopatic Dr. at Passiflora holistic health
A gift from LMS alumni parent, Karen Tyson
Starting Bid : $60
Mixed Hardwood Patterned Cutting Board & Cheese Slicer
Made from a mixture of Walnut, Curly Maple, and African Paduk, this patterned cutting board and matching cheese slicer will make for an attractive and functional charcuterie presentation at your next gathering.
A gift from LMS parent and Trustee, John Ducci
Starting Bid : $90
Dragonfly Watercolor Print
by Sarah Martinez of Snoogs & Wilde
Includes a colorful 12" x 12" archival fine art print of a Dragonfly made with pigment based ink on cotton paper.
A gift from LMS alumni parent, Sarah Martinez of Snoogs & Wilde
Starting Bid : $50
