🌞 What's Up This Week in CT?

In partnership with

Good morning and happy Monday!

Looking to add something fun to your week? We’ve rounded up a fresh list of things to do around Connecticut—perfect for making plans, breaking routine, or just finding a reason to get out and explore. Let’s make this week a good one!

You can click on any event below to learn more about it, and don’t forget to check out our full events calendar for even more things to do across the state.

Outsmart college costs

Ready for next semester? June is a key time to assess how you’ll cover college costs. And considering federal aid often isn’t enough, you might have to consider private student loans.

You’re just in time, though—most schools recommend applying about two months before tuition is due. By now, colleges start sending final cost-of-attendance letters, revealing how much you’ll need to bridge the gap.

Understanding your options now can help ensure you’re prepared and avoid last-minute stress. View Money’s best student loans list to find lenders with low rates and easy online application.

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ALL WEEK LONG

🌳 Spring Outdoors in The Last Green Valley (Danielson): Explore hikes, paddles, and nature activities in one of Connecticut’s most scenic regions.

👻 Downtown Mystic Ghost Tours (Mystic): Take a spooky stroll through one of Connecticut’s most charming historic towns.

🌊 Connecticut Sea Music Festival at Connecticut River Museum (Essex): This annual event celebrates the rich traditions of maritime music, offering an engaging way to explore the culture and stories behind songs of the sea—from deepwater shanties to tunes from inland waterways.

🐊 Crocodile Cove Opening Weekend at Lake Compounce (Bristol): Kick off summer with the opening weekend of Crocodile Cove at Lake Compounce, Connecticut’s largest water park.

MONDAY EVENTS

• Highlights Tour at Mattatuck Museum (Waterbury) - Join a 45-minute guided tour of fascinating artifacts and art pieces.

• Script In Hand: The Shark Is Broken at Westport Country Playhouse (Westport) - A playreading that dives behind the scenes of the making of the film Jaws.

• Judy Collins With The Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra at Ridgefield Playhouse (Ridgefield) - Enjoy a special performance by Judy Collins alongside the Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra.

• Aimee Mann – Lost in Space Tour at Ridgefield Playhouse (Ridgefield) - Experience the hits and storytelling of distinguished singer-songwriter Aimee Mann.

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TUESDAY EVENTS

• 4D Film: The Bear and The Squirrel 4D at The Maritime Aquarium (Norwalk) - Enjoy an enchanting adventure through various habitats in this family-friendly 4D film.

• Yoga on the Terrace at Mattatuck Museum (Waterbury) - Start your day with an all-levels yoga class on the rooftop terrace.

• Wee Faerie Camp 2025: Session #1 at Florence Griswold Museum (Old Lyme) - A mini-camp for young faerie lovers to explore crafting activities.

• Shanties & Sails: Rick Spencer and Dawn Indermuehle at Connecticut River Museum (Essex) - Enjoy a free evening performance of sea shanties by talented musicians.

• Don McMillan at Hartford Funny Bone (Manchester) - Catch the hilarious Comedian/Engineer known for blending comedy with technology.

• MARK TWAIN with Ron Chernow at The Mark Twain House (Hartford) - Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow discusses his biography of Mark Twain.

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WEDNESDAY EVENTS

• A Tour of Korean Cuisine w/ Chef Paige DeFeo at Bleu Catering (Norwalk) - Create delicious Korean dishes in a vibrant cooking class with Chef Paige DeFeo.

• Van Trip: The Mount and Naumkeag at Mattatuck Museum (Waterbury) - Join a guided tour of historic homes and gardens in the Berkshires.

• Norwalk High School/P-TECH Norwalk Graduation at Total Mortgage Arena (Bridgeport) - Celebrate the graduation of Norwalk High School and P-TECH students.

• Looking and Making a Painting at Yale University Art Gallery (New Haven) - Join a gallery talk focusing on contemporary art.

• Home Away From Homeschool: Van Gogh Sunflowers at Mattatuck Museum (Waterbury) - Explore art projects focused on different artists each week.

• Sammy Obeid at Hartford Funny Bone (Manchester) - Enjoy comedy from Sammy Obeid, known for his unique background and comedic experiences.

• Full Moon Sound Meditation at Lyman Orchards at Lyman Orchards (Middlefield) - Relax with a sound meditation session at Lyman Orchards, surrounded by peaceful lunar energy.

Want to have your event listed above? Click here to learn how we can promote your event to thousands of interested locals!

THURSDAY EVENTS

• Paintball Thursday League Night at Powder Ridge Park (Middlefield) - Join for a night of friendly competition in a paintball league.

• Docent Tour: Famous & Family: Through the Lens of Trude Fleischmann at Fairfield University (Fairfield) - Explore an exhibition through a guided tour.

• AIN'T TOO PROUD at Shubert Theatre (New Haven) - Experience the electrifying Broadway musical about The Temptations.

• Lecture: Heimat Photography and the Art of Trude Fleischmann at Fairfield University (Fairfield) - Delve into the relationship between Trude Fleischmann and Heimat photography.

• The Art of Verse: Turner and Poetry at Yale Center for British Art (New Haven) - Join poets reading original works inspired by Turner’s exhibition.

• Bandits on the Run at Levitt Pavilion (Westport) - Enjoy a live performance by this talented trio known for their engaging harmonies and storytelling.

Want to have your event listed above? Click here to learn how we can promote your event to thousands of interested locals!

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FRIDAY EVENTS

• Blooms with a View: A Celebration of Art & Flowers at Florence Griswold Museum (Old Lyme) - Experience beautiful floral arrangements inspired by artworks at the museum.

• Garden Luncheon 2025 at Florence Griswold Museum (Old Lyme) - Join for a beloved annual celebration of flowers, food, and fun!

• Happy Hour @ The MATT at Mattatuck Museum (Waterbury) - Enjoy drinks and music on the rooftop terrace with stunning city views.

• Chris Redd at Hartford Funny Bone (Manchester) - Experience the multifaceted comedy talent of Chris Redd.

• Salsa Night at Mattatuck Museum (Waterbury) - Dance the night away with a salsa lesson and live music on the rooftop terrace.

• Friday Night Live Music Series Featuring The Xtras at Lyman Orchards (Middlefield) - Enjoy great food and live music outdoors from The Xtras.

• Bruce Bruce at Stress Factory Comedy Club (Bridgeport) - Don't miss Bruce Bruce, known for his captivating improv and comedic style.

• Hey Nineteen – A Steely Dan Tribute at Ridgefield Playhouse (Ridgefield) - Experience an authentic tribute to Steely Dan with energetic performances by Hey Nineteen.

• Hot Chocolate Soul at The Bushnell (Hartford) - A unique showcase of music, comedy, and poetry in this vibrant performance.

Want to have your event listed above? Click here to learn how we can promote your event to thousands of interested locals!

TOP DEAL THIS WEEK

30% Off Kayak or Paddleboard Rentals for 1–4 People — Limited Time!

Looking for a low-key summer escape that isn't another crowded beach or overpriced brunch? We found a gem hiding in plain sight: Lake Zoar in Sandy Hook, CT. It’s serene. It’s local. And thanks to Lakeview Outdoor Adventures, you can glide across its calm waters with a kayak or paddleboard — no equipment, no stress, just vibes.

Whether you're solo, with your S/O, or bringing the whole crew, this Groupon deal has your weekend plans locked:
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👉 All gear included
👉 Just $26.25 with promo code DAD25 (yes, that’s for TWO HOURS)

Picture this: warm sun, a peaceful lake, maybe even a stop at the secret sand bar. Minimal effort, max chill. 🛶

📍 123 Lakeview Terrace, Newtown (Sandy Hook)

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Thanks!

Thanks for kicking off your Monday with us! We hope this guide helps you make the most of the week ahead. Know someone who’s always down for an adventure? Forward this their way — and who knows, maybe we’ll catch you both out and about!

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!