🎭 Beauty & the Beast, Restaurant Week + a Kids Market

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Good morning and happy Tuesday! The week’s already in motion, but there’s still plenty of time to make it more interesting. If your calendar’s looking a little empty, we’ve rounded up a few standout events across Connecticut that are actually worth stepping out for.

Here’s what’s inside:

🎭 A Broadway revival bringing a Disney favorite back to the stage
🍽️ A 10-day restaurant week packed with must-try menus and experiences
đź§’ A unique market where kids step up as real entrepreneurs
đź“— This Month in CT History: When Hartford Rallied for War
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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A Broadway-caliber revival returns with stunning visuals and timeless music

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast arrives at The Bushnell from April 7–12, with evening performances at 7:30 pm and select matinees available. This marks the first major North American revival of the beloved musical in over 25 years, bringing the classic story of Belle and the Beast back to life with refreshed staging, elaborate set design, and visually striking costumes.

Featuring iconic songs like “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast,” this revival blends nostalgia with modern theatrical elements. With members of the original Tony Award–winning creative team involved, the show delivers a high-quality performance that makes it well worth planning a night out.

A 10-day dining event showcasing the best of local food, drinks, and culture

Washington Restaurant Week runs April 10–19, taking place all day across Washington Connecticut and transforming the area into a go-to destination for food lovers. Restaurants will offer curated prix fixe menus, signature dishes, and exclusive cocktails, giving both locals and visitors a chance to experience the town’s diverse culinary scene.

Beyond the food, the event also features live music, arts programming, and local performances that add to the overall experience. Whether you’re planning a casual outing or a full day trip, this is the perfect excuse to explore somewhere new through its food.

A hands-on event where kids run their own businesses and gain real-world experience

The Seeds to Success Children’s Entrepreneurial Market takes place on April 11 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at Lyman Orchards, giving kids ages 5–17 the opportunity to create, market, and sell their own products. From handmade items to creative services, each booth is fully run by young entrepreneurs building confidence and learning valuable skills.

Held alongside the Spring Apple Hunt, the event offers a fun and engaging environment for families while supporting the next generation of creators. It’s a meaningful way to spend your Saturday while discovering unique products and encouraging young talent.

Adventures led by women, designed to make a difference.

Imagine a vacation that’s not only transformative for you but helps open doors for the local women you meet along the way. That’s what Intrepid’s new Women’s Expeditions in Peru, Cambodia and Bhutan are all about.

Designed specifically for women travellers, these trips offer immersive local experiences that support women-run and owned businesses in each destination. With an expert local leader out front, you could trek the lesser-known Chinchero to Urquillos route in the Peruvian Andes alongside an all-female crew, dive into Cambodia’s street food scene on a women-run tuk tuk tour, or unwind with a traditional herbal hot stone bath at a women-owned farmhouse in Bhutan.

First launched in 2018, Intrepid’s Women’s Expedition range is designed to break down barriers, foster discussion and create meaningful connections for travellers and locals alike.

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A high-energy concert experience with iconic hits at a limited-time price

If you’ve been waiting for a fun, no-brainer night out, this is it. The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA is hitting the stage at Toyota Oakdale Theatre on April 10, with doors opening at 6:30 pm and the show starting at 8:00 pm. Expect a full live performance packed with classics like “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia,” delivered with the energy and nostalgia that made ABBA legendary.

Right now, there’s a Groupon deal dropping tickets to around $25, which is about 35% off the usual price. It’s already getting traction, and with the deal ending soon, this is one of those “decide fast or miss it” situations.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS YET?

Gerard Way Concert GIF by My Chemical Romance

There’s no shortage of live music happening all around the state. Check out the upcoming show calendar below:

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

When Hartford Rallied for War

In the early days of America’s entry into World War I, thousands of residents in Hartford filled the streets in a massive public gathering to show support for the nation’s decision to join the conflict. For years, the United States had resisted involvement, but a series of escalating events, including attacks on American ships and the shocking revelation of the Zimmermann Telegram, quickly shifted public sentiment from hesitation to urgency.

City leaders and officials addressed the crowd as church bells rang throughout Hartford, creating an atmosphere charged with patriotism. The gathering turned emotional and unified, with attendees singing national songs and voicing strong support for President Woodrow Wilson and the country’s next steps.

This moment wasn’t just symbolic. It sparked a wave of action across the state, leading to recruitment efforts that ultimately saw more than 60,000 Connecticut residents serve overseas. What began as a public show of unity became a defining contribution to the national war effort, reflecting how quickly a community can mobilize in a time of change.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Ct Cracks Down on Distracted Driving

Connecticut has launched a statewide enforcement campaign urging drivers to put their phones away or face fines. Officials say distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of crashes, with thousands of incidents reported each year. The initiative aims to change behavior through increased enforcement and public awareness, with leaders emphasizing that even a few seconds of distraction can have serious consequences.

New Café Opens in Redding’s Historic Georgetown

A new community-focused café is opening its doors in Redding this April, bringing a cozy, connection-driven concept to the Georgetown area. The Given Inn Café blends specialty drinks, light bites, and unique features like a vinyl listening corner and flower bar. Designed as more than just a coffee spot, the space aims to create a welcoming hub where people can gather, unwind, and connect.

Restaurant Comebacks and Expansions Across Ct

Connecticut’s business scene is seeing a wave of movement, from a long-lost waterfront restaurant making a comeback after nearly 15 years to new eateries opening in familiar spaces. Add in a growing grocery chain entering the state and a former athlete launching a new venture, and it’s clear the local food and retail landscape is evolving fast.

Greenwich Pauses School Zone Speed Cameras

In Greenwich, officials have temporarily stopped the use of speed cameras in school zones following concerns about how the program was implemented. The town plans to review and correct procedural issues before restarting the initiative, while still maintaining its focus on improving road safety for students and families.

Thanks!

Thanks for spending a few minutes with us today. Hopefully, you found something worth adding to your plans this week and a reason to get out and explore more of Connecticut.

If this email was helpful, feel free to pass it along to a friend so they don’t miss out either.

P.S. Looking to partner with Connecticut Lifestyles? Just reply to this email or click here to learn how we can promote your brand to thousands of interested locals!