🎉 Explore Magic, Art & Small-Town Fun

August 06, 2026

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Happy Thursday, Connecticut! If you're looking for something fun to do over the next few days, we've rounded up a few events worth adding to your calendar.

Inside today’s email:

🧙 Experience the CT Witch & Culture Festival in Hartford
🎨 Explore hundreds of artists at the Mystic Outdoor Art Festival
🎉 Celebrate community at the Waterford Day Parade
📗 This Month in CT History: When Connecticut Came to a Standstill
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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Explore Connecticut's history, browse unique vendors, and enjoy a weekend of culture in downtown Hartford

The CT Witch & Culture Festival returns to Hartford's Old State House Square on August 8–9, bringing together historians, authors, artisans, speakers, performers, and vendors for a one-of-a-kind celebration. The free, family-friendly event honors the victims of Connecticut's colonial witch trials while raising awareness of their stories and the 2023 resolution that officially exonerated them.

Visitors can attend educational presentations, browse handcrafted goods, watch live performances, enjoy food trucks, and explore the History & Remembrance exhibit dedicated to those accused of witchcraft. Whether you're interested in Connecticut history or simply looking for a unique weekend experience, this festival offers something you won't find anywhere else.

Stroll through one of New England's premier art festivals featuring hundreds of artists and live entertainment

The 68th Annual Mystic Outdoor Art Festival returns August 8–9, transforming downtown Mystic into an outdoor gallery with nearly 270 juried artists showcasing everything from paintings and photography to sculpture, textiles, jewelry, and handcrafted works. It's one of the oldest and most celebrated art festivals in the Northeast.

In addition to incredible artwork, visitors can enjoy live performances, a Children's Art Park, family-friendly entertainment, and an evening showcase featuring music, theater, comedy, and dance. Admission is free, making it the perfect weekend outing for art lovers of all ages.

A festive parade, free activities, live entertainment, and community spirit fill this annual celebration

Waterford Day returns on August 8 with a full day of family fun as the town celebrates its 225th anniversary alongside America's 250th birthday. The festivities begin with free pre-parade activities, including games, face painting, magic shows, and family entertainment before the parade steps off at 11 a.m.

Expect colorful floats, marching bands, antique vehicles, community groups, food vendors, and more than 100 participating organizations marching through town. Best of all, every activity and the parade are completely free, making it one of southeastern Connecticut's biggest community celebrations.

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Save on 18 holes of golf with a cart at Norwich Golf Course for one, two, or four players

Looking for your next day on the links? Norwich Golf Course is offering a great Groupon deal on 18 holes of championship golf with a cart, making it easy to enjoy one of Connecticut's most historic public courses at a discounted price. Whether you're playing solo, enjoying a round with a friend, or organizing a foursome, there's an option to fit your outing.

Originally opened in 1926, Norwich Golf Course combines classic course design with modern amenities to create an enjoyable experience for golfers of every skill level. After your round, stop by The Caddy Shack Restaurant to relax with food and drinks while taking in the scenic surroundings.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

When Connecticut Came to a Standstill

In 1919, thousands of workers across Connecticut walked off the job in one of the largest labor strikes in the state's history. Employees from railroads, textile mills, factories, trucking companies, and construction sites joined a regional movement demanding higher wages as families struggled with soaring post-World War I inflation.

The widespread strike disrupted businesses and transportation across the state, with railroad service among the hardest hit. Employers scrambled to keep operations running as thousands of workers united in calling for better pay and improved working conditions.

Although Connecticut experienced many labor disputes during the early 20th century, this massive coordinated strike remains one of the state's most significant. It reflected the economic challenges facing workers after World War I and became an important chapter in Connecticut's labor history.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Hospitals Warn of Rise in Youth Scooter Injuries

Connecticut hospitals are reporting an increase in scooter and e-bike crashes involving children and teens this summer. Health officials are urging parents to make sure young riders wear helmets, follow traffic laws, and ride age-appropriate vehicles to help prevent serious injuries.

Connecticut Schools May Tighten Cellphone Rules

Connecticut education officials are considering new statewide guidance that would encourage schools to adopt bell-to-bell cellphone restrictions and reduce classroom screen time. The recommendations aim to improve student focus, behavior, and face-to-face learning while still allowing appropriate educational technology use.

Mystic Named One of New England's Best Places to Retire

A Connecticut coastal town has earned national recognition as one of the best places to retire in New England. With its scenic waterfront, walkable downtown, vibrant arts scene, and abundance of local attractions, Mystic continues to attract retirees looking for an active coastal lifestyle.

Mystic Aquarium Heads to One of the Ocean's Most Remote Regions

Researchers from Mystic Aquarium are leading a scientific expedition to one of the world's most remote ocean environments. The mission will study marine wildlife and ecosystems while helping scientists better understand and protect some of the planet's least-explored waters.

Thanks!

Thanks for reading! We hope you found something inspiring to explore, whether it's a local event, a hidden gem, or something new in your community.

Check back tomorrow for more ideas and updates from across 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!