đź‘€ Your Weekday Guide to Connecticut

August 17, 2026

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Happy Monday, Connecticut! A new week is here, and we’ve rounded up a few things worth doing and checking out across the state. From local happenings to fun finds, here’s what’s on our radar.

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.

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ALL WEEK LONG

  • Chess Lessons (Waterbury) - Players of all ages and skill levels can learn and practice chess during weekly Chess Lessons held every Saturday from 10:30 am to 12 pm at the Mattatuck Museum.

  • Revolutionary Roots: Generations of Change (Norwalk) - A deeper look at local and regional connections to America’s founding, offering visitors a meaningful perspective on the individuals and families who shaped early American history.

  • Plant A Seed, Read: 2026 Summer Reading Program (Bridgeport) - Readers of all ages are invited to grow their love of books during the Bridgeport Public Library's 2026 Summer Reading Program, "Plant A Seed, Read."

  • Exhibit Highlight Tour (Mashantucket) - Explore thousands of years of history during the Exhibit Highlight Tour at the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center.

  • Zoo Patrol (Bridgeport) - Explore the Zoo through guided adventures, interactive activities, and engaging staff-led presentations.

MONDAY EVENTS

TUESDAY EVENTS

  • Storytime Tuesdays (East Haven) - Introduce young readers to the joy of books and historic transportation.

  • Comedy Night #3 (Westport) - Enjoy an evening of stand-up comedy during Comedy Night #3 at Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts.

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Want even more perks? The BJ’s Club+ option adds 2% back in rewards on eligible purchases, extra savings at BJ’s Gas, free curbside pickup, and two free same-day deliveries on qualifying orders. It’s a solid option for households that shop regularly and want to get more value from their membership.

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WEDNESDAY EVENTS

  • Tai Chi (Waterbury) - Learn gentle techniques designed to help reduce stiffness and soreness while encouraging relaxation and overall wellness.

  • Senior Mornings (Waterbury) - Older adults can enjoy a quieter museum experience during Senior Mornings.

  • Volunteer Docent Open House (Waterbury) - Learn about becoming a museum docent during the Volunteer Docent Open House at the Mattatuck Museum.

  • America 250 Wayback Fare Day – Ride (East Haven) - Enjoy discounted admission at 2016 prices while exploring one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating suburban street railways.

  • Pequot Village Tour (Mashantucket) - Experience life in a 16th-century Pequot community.

  • Sunset Trolley Ride (East Haven) - Evening experience timed to coincide with sunset, offering passengers scenic views and the warm glow of late summer.

  • FyĂĽtch & Aura V: Children’s Series (Westport) - Families are invited to enjoy an evening of music, creativity, and fun with FyĂĽtch & Aura V.

THURSDAY EVENTS

  • Hot Food Thursdays (Mashantucket) - Offering guests a delicious new meal to enjoy each week.

  • Scenic Trolley Rides & Museum Tours (East Haven) - Guests can explore a variety of preserved trolley cars and exhibits.

  • Thursdays on the Dock: The Italics (Essex) - Enjoy an evening of classic rock 'n' roll during Thursdays on the Dock featuring The Italics.

  • Salsa in the Ninth Square (New Haven) - Whether you’re taking your first salsa steps or are an experienced dancer, this free community event offers a fun and welcoming atmosphere for all skill levels.

  • Borboletta: A Tribute to Santana (Westport) - Fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms, jazz, blues, soul, and rock while capturing the energy of the legendary guitarist’s live performances.

  • Eric Gales (Hartford) - Experience an electrifying night of blues-rock when acclaimed guitarist Eric Gales performs at Infinity Music Hall.

  • Joanne Shaw Taylor (Norfolk) - Look forward to a dynamic live performance featuring fan favorites and standout selections from her acclaimed catalog.

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FRIDAY EVENTS

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS YET?

A bubbly vineyard experience made for relaxing, sharing, and making memories

Treat yourself to a scenic outing at Arrigoni Winery with a bottle of sparkling white or rosé, a charcuterie board, and souvenir champagne glasses. Choose the experience for two or bring a group of four for an easygoing wine-country escape.

Set along Connecticut’s wine trail, Arrigoni Winery offers a beautiful backdrop for sipping and snacking with friends or a date. The Groupon can be redeemed 24 hours after purchase, and no reservation is required.

Thanks!

That’s a wrap for today! We hope you found something that caught your eye, gave you a new idea, or helped you plan your week.

Have a great Monday, Connecticut, and we’ll be back tomorrow!

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!