💙 Support a Cause, Pick Blueberries & Live Entertainment

July 16, 2026

Happy Thursday! The weekend is almost here, and there's still plenty happening across Connecticut. We've got you covered with another roundup of events and stories to explore.

Here's what's inside today:

🎶 Support mental health while enjoying live performances
🫐 Celebrate blueberry season with family fun
🎸 Catch Jimmy Vaughan & the Tilt-A-Whirl Band plus special guests
📗 This Month in CT History: The Connecticut Compromise That Shaped America
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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🎶 MAKE A DIFFERENCE AT THE BEAR WITH US MUSIC FESTIVAL

A full day of live music, local art, and community support for mental health awareness

The Bear With Us Music Festival returns to Greenwood Features in Bethel on Saturday, July 18, bringing together live music, local artists, and community members to support mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Held in memory of beloved local musician Joe Apuzzo, the all-ages event features performances across two stages, interactive art experiences, and resources from Mental Health CT.

Guests can also enjoy food, refreshments, and artwork from more than 20 local artists while helping raise funds for Mental Health CT and Vibrant Emotional Health, the organization behind the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It's a meaningful day that combines great entertainment with an important cause.

🫐 CELEBRATE SUMMER AT LYMAN ORCHARDS' BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL

Free family fun, fresh blueberries, live music, and sweet treats await in Middlefield

Spend your Saturday at the Lyman Orchards Blueberry Festival on July 18, where families can enjoy a full day of seasonal fun with free admission. Highlights include pick-your-own blueberries, wagon rides, a petting farm, face painting, food trucks, kids' crafts, pie-eating contests, live music, and plenty of blueberry-inspired treats.

Whether you're filling a basket with fresh berries or enjoying a famous blueberry sundae on the patio, there's something for visitors of every age. It's one of Connecticut's favorite summer traditions and a perfect way to spend a day outdoors.

Bob Dylan takes the stage alongside special guests for an evening of incredible performances

Music lovers can look forward to an exciting night at the Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater in Bridgeport on July 19, featuring Bob Dylan along with special guests to be announced. Fans can expect an evening of exceptional musicianship, memorable performances, and plenty of great live entertainment.

Whether you're a longtime fan or simply looking for a fun night out, this concert promises an unforgettable experience at one of Connecticut's premier outdoor venues.

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TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

The Connecticut Compromise That Shaped America

During the Constitutional Convention of 1787, delegates from the newly independent states reached a standstill over one major question: how should each state be represented in the new federal government? Larger states wanted representation based on population, while smaller states argued that every state should have an equal voice.

Connecticut delegates Roger Sherman and Oliver Ellsworth proposed a solution that became known as the Connecticut Compromise, creating a two-house legislature with a House of Representatives based on population and a Senate where every state receives equal representation. Their proposal satisfied both sides and broke the deadlock that threatened to end the convention.

The compromise was approved by a single vote and became one of the defining features of the U.S. Constitution. More than two centuries later, Connecticut's role in shaping the structure of the federal government remains one of the state's most significant contributions to American history.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Free Summer Meals Available for Connecticut Kids

Connecticut families are reminded that free meals remain available all summer for children and teens 18 and younger at participating locations across the state. No registration, ID, or proof of income is required, and meals are available through schools, parks, libraries, community centers, and other local sites.

Light Poles Across Connecticut to Become EV Charging Stations

A new pilot program will convert 40 to 60 existing light poles into electric vehicle charging stations across several Connecticut communities. The project aims to expand convenient curbside charging access as the state continues investing in electric vehicle infrastructure.

Waterbury to Swear In First Female Deputy Police Chief

The Waterbury Police Department is making history with the appointment of its first female deputy police chief. The milestone marks a significant moment for the department and reflects the growing presence of women in law enforcement leadership across Connecticut.

Connecticut Employers Look to Fill Skilled Trade Jobs

Demand for skilled trade workers continues to grow across Connecticut as employers seek electricians, welders, HVAC technicians, machinists, and other specialized professionals. Businesses, schools, and training programs are expanding apprenticeship and workforce development efforts to help meet the state's increasing labor needs.

Connecticut Manufacturer Relocating Headquarters

A Connecticut-based manufacturing company with ties to several iconic buildings around the world is relocating its headquarters to a neighboring Connecticut town. Company leaders say the move will provide additional space to support future growth while keeping operations within the state.

Thanks!

Thanks for spending part of your Thursday with us! As the weekend gets closer, we hope today's stories have inspired your next outing or helped you discover something new happening around Connecticut.

We'll be back with more community highlights and can't-miss happenings from 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!