🎨School’s Out Art Camps, After-School Science & Owl Prowls

January 06, 2026

Good morning and happy Tuesday!

If you’re looking to fill the week with something a little more creative, curious, or hands-on, you’re in the right place. From art-filled programs for kids to nature-based learning and evening wildlife adventures, today’s lineup offers plenty of ways to learn, explore, and try something new.

Inside today’s email:

🎨 Creative day camps for kids while school’s out
🌱 Hands-on afterschool science and nature programs
🦉 A guided evening owl prowl for curious explorers
đź“— This Month in CT History: Hunger Pangs Hit the Home Front
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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A full-day art and history experience for creative kids

When school’s out, the Mattatuck Museum turns the day into an immersive creative adventure. Designed for children ages 5 and up, this drop-off program blends gallery exploration, hands-on art-making, and playful learning in a supportive museum setting.

Each camp day focuses on a different theme, from bold graphic portraits inspired by Gerald Saladayga to Jazz Age design and vintage newspaper art. Campers experiment with mixed media, painting, collage, and storytelling while building confidence and creative skills. With free before- and after-care included, it’s an easy win for families looking for a meaningful school-break option.

STEAM-based learning inspired by nature

The RTP Estuary Center’s After School Adventures Program brings science, creativity, and outdoor exploration together in a fun, low-pressure environment for kids in grades K–4. Over six-week sessions, participants dive into seasonally themed STEAM activities, learning how to use real scientific tools, design experiments, and explore the natural world through hands-on discovery.

Each session balances learning with crafts, games, and outdoor time, encouraging curiosity while keeping things engaging and age-appropriate. It’s a great fit for kids who love asking questions, getting messy, and learning by doing.

An after-dark nature walk to spot winter owls

Winter evenings are prime time for owl activity, and this guided Owl Prowl offers a rare chance to experience it firsthand. Led by knowledgeable naturalists, participants head out after sunset to listen and look for owls as they nest, establish territory, and call across the landscape.

The Connecticut Audubon Society is hosting two owl prowls this week with many more in the month to come. The first is on Wednesday, January 7 from 5:30-7:30 pm at Fenwick in Old Saybrook, and the next is on Thursday, January 8 from 5:30-7:30 pm at High Hopes in Old Lyme.

Guests are encouraged to bundle up, bring a flashlight or headlamp, and enjoy a quiet, atmospheric walk through the winter woods. Designed for ages 12 and up, this program is perfect for nature lovers who don’t mind the cold and want to see Connecticut’s wildlife from a whole new perspective.

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Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing made easy for all ages

If your winter plans could use a little fresh air and snow-dusted scenery, this Groupon deal is a solid excuse to head outdoors. Maple Corner Farm in Blandford, Massachusetts offers a relaxed, beginner-friendly way to enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoeing — with trail access and equipment rentals bundled into one easy pass.

This deal includes adult or youth trail passes with full equipment rental, available for one, two, or four people. With flexible rentals that let you switch between skis and snowshoes at no extra charge, you can try both activities in a single visit. It’s a great option for families, first-timers, or anyone who wants to enjoy winter without committing to expensive gear.

Founded in 1812, Maple Corner Farm is known for its welcoming, old-school farm atmosphere and beautifully maintained trails. After time on the snow, guests can warm up in the cozy ski lodge by a wood fire and grab hearty comfort food like soup, chili, and breakfast sandwiches. With top ratings and a laid-back vibe, it’s the kind of winter outing that feels both active and restorative.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS YET?

Gerard Way Concert GIF by My Chemical Romance

There’s no shortage of live music happening all around the state. Check out the upcoming show calendar below:

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

Hunger Pangs Hit the Home Front

During World War II, food shortages reached a breaking point in Glastonbury when several grocery stores were forced to close after running out of supplies. With shelves empty, residents rushed to nearby farms to secure basics like potatoes, eggs, poultry, and vegetables — a clear sign that the pressures of war were hitting close to home.

The situation mirrored a growing statewide and national crisis as resources were diverted to support troops overseas. Federal rationing reshaped daily life, beginning with the introduction of the “Sugar Book,” which strictly limited household purchases, followed by restrictions on coffee, butter, eggs, and other staples. Holiday buying surges and fragile supply chains only intensified the strain, turning routine grocery shopping into a source of anxiety.

State leaders urged cooperation and self-reliance as rationing expanded. Governor Raymond Baldwin emphasized the importance of local food production, reminding residents that farm workers were vital to the war effort. While shortages persisted until the war’s end, the Glastonbury episode stands as a reminder of how global conflict reshaped everyday life across Connecticut.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Danbury Man Files Lawsuit Over Hot Coffee Spill at Dunkin’

A Danbury resident has filed a personal injury lawsuit against a Dunkin’ location in East Lyme, claiming a loose lid on a cup of hot coffee caused severe burns, lasting physical injuries, and emotional distress. The case has drawn comparisons to the well-known McDonald’s hot coffee lawsuit, raising fresh questions about safety practices at drive-thru windows.

More Connecticut Towns Move Toward Speed and Red-Light Cameras

Ten Connecticut municipalities have now received state approval to install automated traffic enforcement cameras, with several more towns actively applying or preparing plans. Supporters say the cameras will improve safety, particularly in school zones, while others continue to raise concerns about privacy, cost, and enforcement.

Who Really Runs Connecticut’s Rail System? It’s Complicated

A new look at Connecticut’s commuter rail network reveals a maze of shared responsibilities involving the state, towns, Metro-North, Amtrak, and private contractors. From track ownership to station maintenance and parking rules, the layered system helps trains run but often leaves riders confused when problems arise.

CT Boot & Shoe Closes, but Its Legacy Lives On in Torrington

After 25 years in business, CT Boot & Shoe has closed its doors, but much of its remaining inventory and historic fixtures will live on at Howard’s Bookstore in Torrington. Owner Fred Jury, who is retiring, also donated historic items and gave away new boots to people in need, marking a meaningful end to a long local business chapter.

Historic Norwalk Lighthouse Reimagined as a Classroom on the Sound

Greens Ledge Lighthouse off the Norwalk coast has been transformed into a floating classroom through a partnership with SoundWaters, offering students hands-on science education in the middle of Long Island Sound. The project aims to preserve the historic structure while expanding access to marine research and environmental learning.

Thanks!

Thanks for spending some time with us today! We hope this roundup inspired you to get out, explore, and make the most of everything Connecticut has to offer this week.

If you enjoyed this email, feel free to share it with a friend and help spread the word about all the great things happening around 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!