🌮 Food Trucks, K-Pop & Pride Fun Across Connecticut

Good morning! There’s plenty happening around Connecticut this week, and today’s lineup is full of fun events worth checking out. From food festivals and live concerts to colorful community celebrations, there’s no shortage of ways to get out and enjoy the weekend.

Here’s what’s inside:

🌮 A family-friendly food truck festival
šŸŽ¤ A high-energy K-pop tribute concert
šŸ³ļøā€šŸŒˆ Bethel’s Pride Parade & Celebration
šŸ“— This Month in CT History: Connecticut Women Prepare For The Right To Vote
šŸ“° Local headlines you might’ve missed

The family trip your kids will still talk about at 30

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A full day of great eats, live entertainment, history, and community celebration heads to Schenck’s Island this weekend

If you’re looking for a fun way to spend the weekend outdoors, the Food Truck Festival 2026 at Schenck’s Island in Wilton is bringing together food, music, history, and family activities all in one place on May 31 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Hosted by the Wilton Historical Society, the event features local food trucks, live entertainment, crafts, games, and interactive historical experiences throughout the day.

Visitors can sample food from some of the area’s favorite vendors while also checking out colonial-era reenactments, face painting, and hands-on activities for all ages. The festival also partners with Wilton Pride and the #Wiltoniswhereyoubelong campaign, with nearby Pride festivities happening on the Town Green.

A live tribute concert inspired by BTS, BLACKPINK, and global K-pop culture takes over Waterbury

K-pop fans can get ready for an afternoon packed with music, choreography, and nonstop energy when Planet K-pop arrives at the Palace Theater in Waterbury on May 31 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The tribute-style production features live singers, dancers, dramatic lighting, audience interaction, and performances inspired by some of the biggest names in K-pop.

Designed for longtime fans and newcomers alike, the show blends concert-style performances with immersive staging and synchronized dance routines to create a fast-paced entertainment experience. From fan-favorite songs to high-energy dance battles, it’s shaping up to be a fun afternoon for anyone who loves live music and performance culture.

Downtown Bethel will fill with music, vendors, performances, and family-friendly festivities this weekend

Bethel’s Pride Parade & Celebration returns on May 30 from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM with a colorful afternoon of community events, live entertainment, local vendors, and activities for all ages. The celebration begins with a sidewalk parade through downtown Bethel before continuing with performances, food, art, and family-friendly fun at the Bethel Municipal Center.

Live music from Margot Miller and Pigeon Vulture will headline the event, while local businesses, artists, and community organizations help create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the day. Organizers say the event is designed to be inclusive and accessible for everyone, with sensory-support resources and indoor accommodations available if needed.

Looking for a fun summer day trip? Six Flags New England in Agawam is offering discounted single-day tickets and Silver Passes for the 2026 season, with savings of up to 44% through Groupon. The park features more than 100 rides, attractions, and shows, including massive roller coasters, family rides, and themed DC Universe experiences.

Thrill seekers can take on favorites like SUPERMANā„¢ The Ride and Wicked Cyclone, while families can enjoy classics like the Grand Carousel, Balloon Race, and CATWOMANā„¢ Whip. The park is also debuting its new Quantum Accelerator coaster in 2026, featuring dual launches and 11 airtime moments.

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A relaxing vineyard experience with bubbly, charcuterie, and souvenir glasses is now available at a discount in Portland

If you’re looking for a relaxing Connecticut outing, Arrigoni Winery in Portland is offering a sparkling wine experience that’s perfect for date nights, group outings, or a laid-back afternoon with friends. The Bubbles Experience includes bottles of sparkling white or sparkling rosĆ©, charcuterie boards, and souvenir champagne glasses, all surrounded by scenic vineyard views along the Connecticut Wine Trail.

The experience for two includes one bottle of bubbly, a charcuterie board, and two souvenir glasses, while the group option for four includes two bottles, two charcuterie boards, and four glasses. Guests can enjoy the winery’s outdoor atmosphere, live music events, and welcoming vineyard setting while sipping and relaxing.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

Connecticut Women Prepare For The Right To Vote

After the U.S. House of Representatives approved a constitutional amendment supporting women’s voting rights in 1919, Connecticut suffragists quickly began preparing for what they believed would soon become a historic change. Just days later, the Connecticut Woman Suffrage Association launched a statewide effort focused on educating women about government, politics, and civic participation so they would be ready to fully exercise their rights as citizens.

Led by prominent advocates including Katherine Ludington and founded decades earlier by Isabella Beecher Hooker, the organization created programs and committees across every Connecticut county. Their goal was to reach women from all backgrounds, including working-class and immigrant communities, as they prepared for an estimated 400,000 Connecticut women to join the electorate.

Their efforts became part of the larger national movement that eventually led to the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920, officially granting women the right to vote across the United States.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Stratford’s Former Army Engine Plant Could Become A Major Waterfront Destination

Developers behind Stratford’s former Army Engine Plant are now pursuing a mixed-use waterfront redevelopment instead of the industrial warehouse project previously proposed for the site. Plans for the 77-acre property include public waterfront access, green spaces, and commercial development as demolition and environmental cleanup continue.

Overnight Fire Damages Several Businesses In Branford

A late-night fire damaged multiple businesses along East Main Street in Branford after downed electrical wires reportedly sparked flames in a mixed-use building. Firefighters were able to stop the fire from spreading further, and no injuries were reported as the investigation continues.

Connecticut Officials Urge Residents To Prepare For Hurricane Season

With hurricane season officially starting June 1, Connecticut officials are encouraging residents to review emergency plans, check flood insurance coverage, and prepare for potential storms. Officials warned that even weaker tropical systems can still cause serious flooding, power outages, and storm damage across the state.

Connecticut’s Century-Old Rail Bridges Are Getting Billion-Dollar Replacements

Major construction projects are underway to replace several aging rail bridges along Connecticut’s coastline, including projects in Norwalk and Old Saybrook. Officials say the upgrades will improve reliability, reduce delays, and allow faster train travel for Amtrak and Metro-North passengers.

Connecticut Beachgoers Asked To Help Protect Endangered Shorebirds

Connecticut officials are reminding beach visitors to avoid fenced nesting areas protecting endangered shorebirds like piping plovers and least terns. Conservation leaders say increased beach traffic, storms, and flooding continue to threaten nesting habitats during the busy summer season.

Thanks!

Thanks for spending part of your Thursday with us! We hope today’s lineup helped you find something fun to add to your weekend plans.

Don’t forget to share this email with someone who’s always looking for new things to do around Connecticut!

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!