This is a space where our readers share recommendations and interesting finds from their local communities.
Traveling? Check out Sanctuary's READER RAMBLE.
SEND YOUR SHOUT-OUTS!
Please note that you may continue to send recommendations for past Reader Rambles.
Traveling? Check out Sanctuary's READER RAMBLE.
SEND YOUR SHOUT-OUTS!
Please note that you may continue to send recommendations for past Reader Rambles.
February 2026
Must-See Women's History Museum or Monument
Must-See Women's History Museum or Monument
(We're thinking ahead to Women's History Month) EMAIL US or use the form located here! Send your first name and last initial, location of establishment, and link, so readers can learn more about the business. |
New Hampshire:
Hannah Duston Memorial Historic Park (1874), Boscawen, NH
"This is the first publicly funded statue in New Hampshire. Great picnic spot, too!" ~ Evelyn M. Washington, DC:
National Museum of Women Artists (NMWA), Washington, DC
"The first museum in the world solely dedicated to championing women through the arts." ~ Sanctuary Team |
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December 2025
Best Holiday Festival/Event
Best Holiday Festival/Event
(Something for everyone!) EMAIL US or use the form located here! Send your first name and last initial, location of establishment, and link, so readers can learn more about the business. |
New York:
Kevin McCurdy's Holiday Spirit Festival, Wappingers Falls, NY
"Bring the grandkids. They'll love it!" ~ Ella Pennsylvania:
Gingerbread Competition/Peddler's Village, Lahaska, Bucks County, PA
"Really great display. Includes kids' competition. Great for families." ~ Eleanor |
October 2025
Best Community Art Gallery
Best Community Art Gallery
(A place locals go for more than art!) EMAIL US or use the form located here! Send your first name and last initial, location of establishment, and link, so readers can learn more about the business. |
Pennsylvania:
Square Pear Fine Art Gallery, Kennett Square, PA
"More than fine art exhibitions! Artisans, card shop & classes, too!" ~ Katherine P. Vermont:
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August 2025
Best Farmers Market
Best Farmers Market
(This can be a traditional market with fruits/veggies or one with more options, such as hot foods/crafts, etc.) EMAIL US or use the form located here! Send your first name and last initial, location of establishment, and link, so readers can learn more about the business. |
Kentucky Douglass Loop Farmers Market, Louisville, KY "Nonprofit outreach mission of a local church." [Douglass Boulevard Christian Church] ~Hannah L. New Jersey Berlin Farmers Market, Berlin, NJ "This is a family owned and operated market since 1940. Indoor and outdoor markets. It's huge and includes artisans." ~ Beth New York Northport Farmers Market, Northport, NY "Now hosting live music on Saturdays!" ~ Mary A. |
June 2025
Best Summer Festival
Best Summer Festival
(This can be a family, culture, history, or food/beverage festival in your area.) EMAIL US or use the form located here! Send your first name and last initial, location of establishment, and link, so readers can learn more about the business. |
Maine
Rockport Donut Festival, Rockport, ME "My grandkids love this!" ~ Mary R. New York Dutchess County Fair, Rhinebeck, NY "So much more than rides! Come for the music, cooking demonstrations, and more!" ~ Amy D. Pennsylvania Clarion Summer Fest, Clarion, PA "This is the best of small-town living!" ~ Alison Tennessee IBMA World of Bluegrass Festival, Chattanooga, TN "For lovers of Bluegrass music!" ~ Bev F. |
April 2025
Best Garden Center
Best Spot to Buy Plants/Flowers and Get Advice
(This can be a garden shop/center, market garden, nursery, etc.) EMAIL US or use the form located here! Send your first name and last initial, location of establishment, and link, so readers can learn more about the business. |
Florida
Blue Star Nursery, Hawthorne, FL "Known for quality Florida-native plants." ~ Cheryl T. New York Adams Fairacre Farms, Poughkeepsie, NY "Family-owned with several locations now. I love the Poughkeepsie store for garden and landscape needs." ~ Donna P. Peconic River Herb Farm, Claverton, NY "This is a boutique-style, specialty plant nursery providing garden-worthy plants since 1986." ~ Anne C. Pennsylvania Linvilla Orchards, Media, PA "Love to bring my kids here!" ~ Jamie South Carolina Jarrett's Jungle, West Columbia, SC "I found this place when I was on vacation. Fabulous flowers and arrangements." ~ Dawn S. |
February 2025
Best Soup
Best Spot to Order Soup
(This can be a restaurant, deli, food truck, etc., in your local area.) Share your favorite. EMAIL US! Send your first name and last initial, location of establishment, and your favorite soup. Please also send a link, so readers can learn more about the business. |
California
The Farmer's Union, San Jose, CA "Gluten free creamy tomato is awesome!" ~ Olivia M. Maine Harvest Moon Deli, Orono, ME "Love their apple and squash soup. But all their homemade soups are great!" ~ Anna P. New Hampshire The Bridge Cafe, Manchester, NH "Love their soup specials. Gluten free options available." ~ Heidi R. New York Santa Fe, Woodstock, NY "Best black bean soup!" ~ Arlene S. |
