🍂 Apple Picking, Portland Fair & Dog Parks

October 02, 2025

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Happy Thursday, Connecticut! 🍂 Ready to get outside and make the most of the season? This week, we’re bringing you a mix of crisp fall adventures, festive fairs, and pup-approved outings. Here’s what’s inside:

🍏 Where to pick the best apples in Connecticut this fall
🎡 Don’t miss the 25th Annual Portland Fair this weekend
đŸ¶ Top dog parks across the state for off-leash fun
📗 This Month in CT History: Connecticut Erupts Over Income Tax
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

A Smarter Way to Spend Fall in New England

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🍎 CATCH FALL’S SWEETEST APPLES BEFORE THEY’RE GONE!

Your guide to fall’s favorite activity

The apple-picking season is here, and dozens of Connecticut farms are welcoming visitors to grab a basket and enjoy the outdoors. From family-friendly hayrides to pumpkin patches and farm markets, these orchards make for the perfect fall outing. Whether you’re planning a date, a family adventure, or just some quiet time in nature, you won’t want to miss it.

We’ve just put together a guide to the best apple picking spots around the state.

Some of our favorites include:

  • Averill Farm – Washington Depot

  • Beardsley’s Cider Mill & Orchard – Shelton

  • Belltown Hill Orchards – South Glastonbury
    
and dozens more across the state.

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Rides, contests, and classic fall fun await!

October 3–5, 2025, at Chris Cote's Performance Center and Toptracer Range, Portland. Enjoy a weekend of competitive exhibits, crafts, food, and fairground fun for all ages.

  • Admission: Adults $15 | Seniors $10 | Children under 12 FREE

  • Times: Fri 3 PM–11 PM | Sat 10:30 AM–10 PM | Sun 10:30 AM–6 PM

Don’t miss your chance to experience rides, shows, and a classic fall festival vibe!

Where pups run free and make new friends

From peaceful scenic spots to large fenced areas, Connecticut’s dog parks are perfect for socializing and exercising your furry friend.

We just published a guide that outlines some of our favorite dog parks to visit across our beautiful state.

Follow simple do’s and don’ts to make every visit safe and fun!

Your home is often your biggest asset, but protecting it now costs more than ever. Homeowners across the U.S. are facing a surge in insurance rates, with some states seeing a 76% rise over the last 6 years. Comparing quotes, bundling home and auto, improving home security, or proactively reinforcing against weather can all help cut costs.

Why the spike?

  • Higher claim payouts

  • inflation in labor and material costs

  • Increased climate-driven disasters
    Compare Money’s top home insurance companies and see if switching before your renewal could save you hundreds (or even thousands) this year.

This is an advertisement. 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!

Conquer walls, challenge yourself, and have a blast indoors

Ever wondered what it feels like to scale a rock wall and reach the top? Now’s your chance! Rock Spot Climbing in Wallingford and other locations across Connecticut is offering up to 34% off indoor climbing passes through Groupon. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned climber, this adventure promises excitement, fitness, and fun.

With a One-Day Indoor Climbing Pass, you’ll get:

  • All the gear you need to climb safely

  • Access to a variety of climbing routes, boulders, and rope stations

  • Optional Jump Start Classes to learn the fundamentals from experienced instructors

Choose from passes for one, two, or four people—perfect for friends, families, or even a solo challenge. The friendly staff and community vibe make every climb encouraging and energizing. Rated 4.9 stars by over 2,200 Groupon users, Rock Spot Climbing is known for top-notch facilities, a welcoming atmosphere, and plenty of ways to push your limits.

💡 Pro Tip: Purchase your Groupon and use code SAVEMORE for an extra discount today!

Don’t wait—this offer is flying off the walls! Grab your climbing pass here and start your indoor climbing adventure.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU BEEN HERE YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

Connecticut Erupts Over Income Tax

In 1991, tens of thousands of Connecticut residents flooded the State Capitol in Hartford to voice their outrage over the newly enacted state income tax. The law had been passed after months of political clashes, budget vetoes, and a partial government shutdown under Governor Lowell Weicker, who reversed his campaign stance against the tax, citing fiscal necessity.

The protest drew massive crowds, with estimates ranging from 40,000 to 70,000 people, as buses arrived carrying demonstrators waving signs and chanting across Capitol Avenue. Organizers even displayed a “Wall of Shame” featuring the names of lawmakers who supported the tax, and Governor Weicker was burned in effigy amid the fervent crowd.

Although the protest did not reverse the income tax, it left a lasting mark on Connecticut politics. Many lawmakers who backed the tax were voted out or chose not to seek reelection, resulting in a significant turnover in the General Assembly.

Today, the income tax remains a hot-button issue, more than 25 years later, a reminder of the power of public protest and civic engagement in shaping state policy.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Connecticut Bets Big on Innovation in New Haven
The state is investing $50.5 million to build a biotech and quantum tech hub downtown, with support from Yale, UConn, and private partners. Funds will go toward streetscaping, lab space, and pedestrian connections, boosting New Haven as a center for cutting-edge research.

Iconic Olympia Diner Draws Developer Interest
The family-owned diner on Berlin Turnpike in Newington is weighing multiple offers as the owners plan retirement. While its future redevelopment remains uncertain, the diner continues serving its classic breakfast, sandwiches, and Greek specialties.

Bubbakoo’s Burritos Opens Sixth Connecticut Location
The award-winning Mexican-fusion chain has launched a new store in North Haven, celebrating with a free taco promotion. The locally owned location aims to bring the brand’s creative menu and family-friendly experience to even more residents.

Hamden Sports Facility Gets a High-Tech Makeover
The Arena in Hamden is being transformed into a state-of-the-art indoor soccer facility under the Socceroof brand. Upgrades include improved turf, enhanced amenities, and spectator spaces, promising a modern, inclusive soccer experience for players and fans.

Thanks!

Thanks for tuning in to today’s newsletter! We hope it inspired you to get out, explore, and make the most of all that Connecticut has to offer this week.

Enjoyed today’s updates? Share this email with a friend and help them discover the best activities, spots, and experiences across the state too!

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!