🔥From Puppy Tricks to Fire & Ice to a Sizzling Show

February 05, 2026

Hey Connecticut!

Looking ahead to the weekend and beyond? We’ve got a fun mix lined up across Connecticut — from family-friendly laughs to fiery winter festivals and a bold night out on stage. Whether you’re planning something with the kids, heading downtown, or scheduling a night just for you, this week’s picks have you covered.

Inside this email:

🐶 A high-energy, kid-approved live show starring rescued dogs
🔥 One of Connecticut’s biggest winter festivals, celebrating 15 years
💃 A thrilling, adults-only night of live entertainment in Ridgefield
📗 This Month in CT History: The Stray New Haven Pup Who Became an American War Hero
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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🐾 SEE RESCUED PUPS STEAL THE SHOW AT PUPPY PALS LIVE!

An action-packed, family-friendly show starring rescued dogs

Puppy Pals LIVE! takes the stage Sunday, February 8 at 3:00 PM at the Loos Center for the Arts for an afternoon filled with heart, humor, and impressive canine talent. Featuring adopted and rescued dogs, the show blends jaw-dropping stunts with playful comedy as the pups leap, flip, and strut their stuff — often stealing the spotlight from their human handlers.

Designed for audiences of all ages, this high-energy performance is equal parts entertaining and feel-good, celebrating teamwork, resilience, and the joy of four-legged stars doing what they do best. It’s a perfect outing for families looking to laugh, cheer, and be amazed together.

A full day of ice carvings, fire performances, and festival magic

Putnam’s beloved Fire & Ice Festival returns Saturday, February 28, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, transforming downtown into a glowing winter playground packed with frozen art and fiery fun. Now celebrating its 15th anniversary, the free, family-friendly festival features live ice carving throughout the afternoon, with illuminated sculptures remaining on display into the evening.

Beyond the ice, expect massive bonfires, fire dancers, roaming performers, a beer garden, signature cocktails poured over ice luges, axe throwing, food trucks, and local shopping. As night falls, glowing sculptures and flaming torches create the dramatic contrast that has made Fire & Ice one of Connecticut’s most anticipated winter traditions.

💃 TURN UP THE HEAT WITH THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER IN RIDGEFIELD

A bold, crowd-pleasing night out at Ridgefield Playhouse

Thunder From Down Under hits the stage Friday, February 6 from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM at Ridgefield Playhouse, delivering a high-octane performance packed with slick choreography, striking visuals, and interactive moments that keep the energy sky-high. This internationally renowned Australian revue blends polished production with playful audience engagement for a night that’s equal parts theatrical and fun.

Part of the Teed & Brown Broadway & Cabaret Series, the show mixes fan-favorite routines with fresh material, making it a popular pick for a girls’ night out or an adults-only winter escape.

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Classic lanes, modern vibes, and serious fun for less

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AMF delivers more than just polished lanes and flying pins. Many locations offer arcade games, billiards, big-screen TVs, and a full menu of classic comfort food like burgers, pizza, wings, and shareable snacks. It’s an all-in-one entertainment stop where everyone can play at their own pace—no experience required.

With nationwide locations and flexible group options, this deal makes it easy to turn an ordinary evening into something fun without blowing your budget. Just note that vouchers aren’t valid on Saturdays after 6 PM and must be used at participating locations.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

The Stray New Haven Pup Who Became an American War Hero

In 1917, a small stray dog wandered onto Yale University’s campus in New Haven and into the lives of soldiers training there with the 102nd Regiment. Adopted by Private Robert Conroy and nicknamed Stubby for his short tail, the pup quickly became a beloved companion. When the regiment shipped out to France, Stubby was secretly smuggled aboard. Discovered mid-voyage, he famously won over an officer by offering a sharp salute, earning his place with the unit.

Once overseas, Stubby proved far more than a mascot. He served through 17 battles, learning to detect mustard gas before soldiers could smell it and warning troops in time to save lives. He helped medics locate wounded soldiers during ceasefires and even captured a German spy by reacting to unfamiliar language. After being wounded by shrapnel, Stubby recovered in a field hospital, where he comforted injured soldiers and lifted morale across the wards.

After the war, Stubby returned home a national hero. He led parades, promoted Liberty War Bonds, and was awarded numerous honors, becoming the most decorated war dog of World War I. By the time of his death in 1926, he had met three U.S. presidents and earned a permanent place in American history as a symbol of loyalty, courage, and Connecticut’s unexpected contribution to the war effort.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Two Connecticut Men Arrested in Alleged Years-Long Doctor Impersonation Scheme

Authorities say an East Hartford medical group owner and an employee conspired for years to have unlicensed medical services performed and billed to Medicaid. Prosecutors allege patients received exams, injections, and prescriptions under false pretenses, resulting in multiple fraud and larceny charges.

AAA Warns Cold Weather Is Taking a Toll on Car Batteries

AAA reports a spike in battery-related issues across Connecticut as freezing temperatures continue. Drivers are advised to park indoors when possible, keep battery terminals clean, and have aging batteries tested before they fail.

Mysterious Low-Frequency Hum Pushes West Haven to Seek Answers

Residents in West Haven say a persistent, unexplained humming noise has disrupted daily life and sleep for years. The city has approved funding for an acoustics expert to investigate the source, following hundreds of complaints and growing community frustration.

Connecticut Honors Top School Leaders for 2026

The Connecticut Association of Schools recognized outstanding high school and middle school principals and assistant principals for their student-centered leadership. Honorees were praised for strengthening school culture, raising academic expectations, and prioritizing student well-being statewide.

Thanks!

Thanks for spending some time with us today! We hope this week’s picks sparked a few ideas to get out, explore, and enjoy everything Connecticut has to offer.

If you enjoyed this newsletter, feel free to pass it along to a friend who’s always looking for fun things to do around the state.

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!