đŸŽ· Jazz Fest, Wedding Expo & Author Fair

March 19, 2026

Good morning, Connecticut! Here’s your Thursday lineup—packed with live music, creative finds, and unique local events to help you switch things up and make the most of the week. Whether you’re planning a night out, exploring something new, or just looking for a reason to get out of the house, we’ve got a few solid picks to get you started.

Here’s what’s inside:

đŸŽ· A wine + jazz weekend experience at Aquila’s Nest Vineyards
💍 A full-on wedding planning expo at a stunning art museum
📚 A local author fair where you can discover your next favorite read
📗 This Month in CT History: How “Yankee Doodle” Became the State Song
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

P.S. Some readers pointed out that last Thursday’s newsletter listed incorrect dates for St. Patrick’s Day parades. We accidentally used a list of dates from 2024, and we apologize for the error.

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Live jazz, fine wine, and cozy vineyard vibes all weekend long

Spring just got a soundtrack. Aquila’s Nest Vineyards is bringing together live jazz, handcrafted wines, and gourmet food for a three-day experience that feels like a mini escape without leaving the state. From smooth lounge-style sets to lively performances, it’s the kind of event where you can actually slow down and enjoy the moment.

For just $20, you get access to all five shows across the weekend—yes, all of them. Expect a cozy indoor setup, food trucks serving up bold flavors, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for date night, catching up with friends, or just vibing solo with a glass in hand. Seating is limited, so don’t sleep on this one.

Tour a stunning venue and meet top wedding vendors all in one place

If wedding planning is on your radar—or you just love a good romantic setup—this is your sign to check out the Connecticut Wedding Expo at the New Britain Museum of American Art. It’s not just a walkthrough—it’s a full experience where you can explore the venue, meet local vendors, and start building your dream day in real time.

From photographers and caterers to officiants, beauty services, and custom dĂ©cor, everything you need is under one roof. Plus, the museum setting adds a level of elegance that makes the whole thing feel extra special. Whether you’re newly engaged or deep in planning mode, this is where ideas turn into actual plans.

Meet local authors, explore new stories, and enjoy a creative community event

Looking for something more low-key but still worth your time? Head to the Velvet Mill in Stonington for a free, family-friendly author fair featuring 45 Connecticut-based writers. It’s the perfect chance to meet authors face-to-face, chat about their work, and maybe even find your next favorite book.

The vibe is super relaxed and community-driven—great for casual browsing, meaningful convos, and supporting local creatives. Whether you’re a big reader or just curious, it’s an easy and enjoyable way to spend your day.

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2 hours of bowling, free shoe rentals, and up to 72% off for your next hangout

If you’re looking for an easy win for your next night out, this deal is kind of a no-brainer. Bowlero is serving up 2 hours of bowling for 2, 4, or even 6 people—with free shoe rentals included—at a seriously discounted price. Whether it’s a casual date, a barkada night, or a full-on group hang, this is one of those plans that just works every time.

But this isn’t your old-school bowling alley. Think neon-lit lanes, big screens, music pumping, and a whole vibe that feels more like an entertainment hub than just a game. You’ve got arcade games, lounge areas, and a menu stacked with comfort food favorites like wings, burgers, and pizza—so you’re not just bowling, you’re hanging out properly.

Deals start as low as $40 for two people, and with how fast these are selling, you’ll want to lock it in before your next “what should we do?” moment hits.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

How “Yankee Doodle” Became the State Song

In the late 1970s, Connecticut leaders took on a surprisingly tricky task: choosing an official state song. At the time, there wasn’t one, and public events often defaulted to Yale’s “Boola Boola”—something state officials were more than ready to move on from. What followed was a statewide effort that brought together musicians, lawmakers, and plenty of opinions on what best represented Connecticut.

Dozens of performances were held at the State Capitol, featuring everything from school bands to choral groups. Among the contenders, one familiar tune stood out—“Yankee Doodle.” Its Revolutionary War roots and catchy melody made it a strong favorite, though not without controversy. Some argued it didn’t truly reflect the state, while others pointed out its origins as a song meant to mock colonial Americans.

After months of debate, lawmakers made a small but meaningful tweak to the lyrics to make the song more inclusive. That adjustment helped push it across the finish line, and in 1978, “Yankee Doodle” was officially adopted as Connecticut’s state song. What started as a lighthearted debate ultimately became a lasting symbol of the state’s history and identity.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Riko’s Pizza Expands with New Ridgefield Location

Riko’s Pizza is continuing its growth across Connecticut with a new spot coming to Ridgefield this summer. The popular bar-style pizza brand, known for its hot oil pies, is bringing a larger space with indoor dining, outdoor seating, and a dedicated takeout area as it strengthens its presence in western CT.

Connecticut Celebrates Agriculture Week Statewide

Agriculture Week is shining a spotlight on Connecticut’s 5,000 farms and $4 billion industry. Events across the state include farm tours, maple sugaring experiences, and a special Ag Day at the Capitol—encouraging residents to support local farmers and food producers.

Food, Tea & Cheese Events Pop Up Across Connecticut

From elegant tea parties at Lyman Orchards to hands-on cheese tastings in Stonington, Connecticut is serving up unique food experiences this season. These events blend history, culture, and flavor—perfect for anyone looking to try something a little different.

4 Connecticut Shopping Districts Named Among the ‘Most Envied’

Four Connecticut destinations—Mystic, New Haven’s Chapel Street, Greenwich Avenue, and West Hartford Center—earned spots on a national list of top shopping districts. Known for their charm, walkability, and mix of local boutiques and big names, these areas continue to draw visitors from across the region.

Thanks!

Thanks for reading today’s newsletter! We hope it sparked a few ideas to get out, explore, and make the most of everything happening around Connecticut this week.

If you enjoyed it, feel free to pass it along to a friend—so they don’t miss out on all the great things to do across 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!