🍸 Sip Tequila on a Train, Party in Ridgefield, and Take Over the Mic!

July 24, 2025

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Hey there!

We’ve got a lineup this week that’s anything but boring—from tacos and tequila on the rails, to a family-friendly street fest, to a chance for your kid to go full announcer-mode at a Yard Goats game. If you're into food, fun, or just good vibes, this one’s for you. Here's what’s inside:

đźš‚ All aboard for tacos, tequila & trivia on the Tequila Train
🎉 Downtown Ridgefield turns into a giant block party at SummerFest
🎤 Your kid could be the voice of the Hartford Yard Goats this season
đź“— This Month in CT History: The Submarine That Started It All
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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Tacos, Trivia & Tequila on the Rails

The Naugatuck Railroad is back with one of its most beloved events—The Tequila Train—happening Friday, July 25.

This 21+ experience includes a scenic ride to Torrington, tequila tastings, a taco buffet from Uncommon Grill, a trivia night at Bad Dog Brewing Co., and a sweet fudge tasting on the way home.

It’s part dinner party, part adventure, and completely unforgettable. Tickets range from $65–$80 and sell out fast, so don’t sleep on this.

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Block Party Vibes, All Day Long

On Saturday, July 26, downtown Ridgefield turns into a summer playground. SummerFest runs from 10AM–3PM and features food trucks, carnival games, Touch-a-Truck, sidewalk sales, a trackless train, and live DJ sets—all totally free to attend.

Bring the whole crew, soak up the sunshine, and make some Main Street memories.

Junior PA Announcer Program is Open Now

Know a kid who loves baseball and the spotlight? Thanks to American Eagle Financial Credit Union, kids ages 7–14 can become the official Junior PA Announcer at a Hartford Yard Goats home game this season.

Winners get to announce real players from the booth, plus 4 game tickets and major bragging rights. The program is free, and entries are open through September 1.

I don’t know about you, but like most Americans, the first thing I reach for every morning is my favorite mug and the coffee in my pantry. Until recently, I settled for any coffee that seemed “okay” at the grocery store, hoping it’d do the job of waking me up. I didn’t care about its flavor or quality.

Then I discovered Trade, and everything changed. Trade introduced me to some of the most exciting small-batch roasters and coffee shops across the country—the kinds of places I’d love to visit if I lived nearby. I took their quick quiz about my coffee preferences, and they matched me with unique coffees I’d never find at the grocery store.

Now, I can’t imagine my mornings without them.

Each bag is roasted fresh and shipped directly to my door. I was amazed at how much better it tasted than my usual grocery store coffee, and I didn’t have to change my brewing routine at all.

The aroma? Even my mail carrier noticed and asked about it—it was that good. I’m never going back to the grocery store for coffee again.

For a limited time, Connecticut Lifestyles readers can enjoy 30% off their first order when they sign up for a Trade subscription. Simply share your preferences—such as taste, grind, and coffee consumption—and find your perfect roast. Then, sit back, relax, and enjoy fresh coffee delivered right to your doorstep. There’s no risk, only the reward of exceptional coffee.

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Nature walks, wild snacks, and major savings

Ever wondered what’s edible in Central Park? Now’s your chance to find out — and for way less.

Naturalist and author Wildman Steve Brill has been guiding curious New Yorkers through local parks for over 30 years, teaching folks how to spot mushrooms, fruits, herbs, and other edible treasures hiding in plain sight. His tours blend ecology, foraging, and just the right amount of wild energy (often featuring his daughter Violet as co-guide).

Thanks to this Groupon deal, you can join a tour for:

  • Two people for just ₱18.45 (54% off!)

  • Four people for ₱32.85 (59% off!)

  • Six people for ₱42.30 (a wild 65% off!)

Now’s the time to click and book your walk on the wild side.

Whether you’re an amateur herbalist, parent with curious kids, or a foodie who’s sick of the grocery store, this outdoor adventure is a must-try.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU BEEN HERE YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

Meet the Connecticut Genius Who Built the First Combat Submarine — in 1776

In the middle of the Revolutionary War, one Yale-educated inventor from Saybrook flipped the script on naval warfare—by building a boat that went underwater.

David Bushnell was in his 30s when he ditched farm life to study physics and chemistry at Yale. He soon made a wild discovery: gunpowder could explode underwater. That sparked a bolder idea—why not sneak explosives beneath British ships?

By 1776, Bushnell and his brother had built the Turtle, a one-man wooden sub shaped like a clamshell. It had a working propeller, a ballast system to sink and float, and even a fungus-powered light (yes, really). It was also meant to carry a timed mine that could attach to enemy ships.

The Turtle’s test run happened off Charles Island in Milford—and it worked. Soon after, a brave Connecticut soldier took it on its first (and only) combat mission, aiming to blow up the British flagship in New York Harbor. He got close, but swirling tides ruined the plan.

Even though the mission failed, Bushnell’s bold invention helped launch a whole new era of naval innovation—and solidified Connecticut’s place in military history.

Home repair costs have surged in recent years due to inflation and supply chain issues, making unexpected breakdowns a financial burden for homeowners. Fortunately, a home warranty could help cover the repair and replacement of your home appliances and systems for a reasonable monthly fee.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

🧋 Aroma Joe’s Expands Again

A fourth Aroma Joe’s location has officially opened in Southington, slinging iced coffee, energy drinks, and breakfast sandwiches to even more Connecticut caffeine lovers.

♻️ CT Cracks Down on Bottle Return Fraud

A new law aims to stop out-of-state redemption abuse now that CT offers 10¢ refunds—but there’s no hard proof it’s actually a problem. Redemption centers say tech is the real fix.

🧸 Danbury Gets Its Own Labubu Frenzy

Pop Mart is bringing a second wave of blind-box chaos to Connecticut with a new Danbury Fair Mall store. The viral Labubu collectibles are so hot, they’ve already spawned knockoffs.

đź’µ CT Powerball Ticket Scores $150K

One lucky Powerball player in Connecticut hit big with a $150,000 prize last weekend. No jackpot winner yet—next drawing's up to $308 million. Check your numbers!

Thanks!

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