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- ❤️ A Sweetheart Run, Creative Kids & a Valentine’s Dance Night
❤️ A Sweetheart Run, Creative Kids & a Valentine’s Dance Night
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Good morning and happy Tuesday!
If you’re already thinking ahead to midweek plans and the upcoming weekend, then you’re in the right place. We’ve pulled together a mix of meaningful, fun, and feel-good happenings around Connecticut to help you add something special to your calendar — whether you’re moving, creating, or dancing your way through the week.
Here’s what’s inside:
❤️ A Valentine’s weekend run and walk for a great local cause
🎨 A hands-on Black History Month art workshop for kids
💃 A no-pressure Valentine’s dance party for singles and couples
📗 This Month in CT History: Connecticut’s First African-American Congressman
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed
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A Valentine’s Day tradition supporting the Litchfield Community Center
Spend Valentine’s Day moving for a good cause at the 24th Annual Bob and Peg Andrulis Memorial Sweetheart Run/Walk on Saturday, February 14 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Choose between a USATF-certified 5-mile run or a 3-mile walk, with all proceeds benefiting the Litchfield Community Center. Walkers of all ages are welcome, and the scenic course offers varied terrain starting and finishing at the community center.
Participants can enjoy long-sleeve T-shirts for early registrants, goodie bags, refreshments, and age-division prizes. Whether you’re racing, walking with family, or just soaking in the festive atmosphere, this is a meaningful way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
A free Black History Month art experience for kids
Celebrate Black History Month at the Danbury Public Library on Wednesday, February 11 at 4:15 PM with a hands-on Kente cloth paper weaving lesson for children ages 8 and up. Students will learn the history and cultural significance of Kente cloth and how patterns are used to tell stories.
After the lesson, kids will create their own Kente-inspired artwork using meaningful designs. This free program requires no registration, making it an easy and enriching midweek activity for families.
A fun, welcoming night for singles and couples
Fred Astaire Dance Studios of Middletown hosts a Valentine’s Dance Class & Party on Friday, February 13 from 6:45 PM to 9:00 PM, offering a relaxed and social way to celebrate — no partner or experience required. The evening begins with a beginner-friendly group lesson, followed by open dancing and music.
Singles and couples alike are welcome to come solo, bring a date, or attend with friends. It’s all about having fun, meeting people, and enjoying a lively night out before Valentine’s Day.
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Private lessons and group classes at a huge discount
Ready to feel confident on the dance floor? Arthur Murray Dance Studio of Hartford is offering up to 87% off introductory dance lessons, making it easier than ever to learn styles like swing, salsa, rumba, tango, and more. Choose between two private lessons for an individual or couple, or a combo that includes a private lesson, group class, and social practice session. It’s a welcoming, beginner-friendly way to try something new without pressure.
With experienced instructors and a supportive atmosphere, these lessons are designed to help you build skills quickly while having fun. Whether you’re prepping for a wedding, planning a date night, or just want to move with confidence, this deal is a low-risk, high-reward way to get started. Multiple Connecticut locations are available, and the offer is perfect for first-time students.
TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS
Arts in Mind (New Haven) - A free program for individuals in the early stages of memory loss and their care partners.
Lunch and Learn – The People and the Law in Revolutionary Massachusetts (Hartford) - A discussion on how conflict over the law shaped the political landscape of Revolutionary Massachusetts.
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HAVE YOU SEEN THIS YET?
There’s no shortage of live music happening all around the state. Check out the upcoming show calendar below:
THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY
Connecticut’s First African-American Congressman
Born in Waterbury in 1953, Gary A. Franks grew up in a large family that placed a strong emphasis on education and achievement. A standout high school basketball player, he went on to play at Yale University, graduating in 1975. After building a successful career in labor relations and real estate, Franks was encouraged to enter politics with the goal of bringing fresh leadership to the local Republican Party.
That leap paid off in 1990 when Franks won a closely watched congressional race, becoming the first African American elected to Congress from Connecticut and the first Black Republican elected to Congress in decades. During three terms in office, he served on the Armed Services Committee, helped secure defense contracts for the state, and authored legislation that led to the creation of Weir Farm National Park, Connecticut’s first National Park site.
Known for his independent and often controversial positions, Franks frequently challenged both party leadership and political expectations. Though his tenure ended in 1996, his impact remains significant, marking a pivotal chapter in Connecticut’s political and cultural history.
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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE
New Safety Course Required for CT Learner’s Permits
Connecticut drivers applying for a learner’s permit now need to complete a free online Work Zone Safety Course. State officials say the added step is designed to build safer driving habits early and highlight the risks faced by road crews in active work zones.
Championship Coach Ty Outlaw Heads Home to East Hartford
After 15 standout seasons and four state titles at Bloomfield, football coach Ty Outlaw is returning to his alma mater, East Hartford High School. He takes over a program coming off a challenging season, calling the move a personal “homecoming” and a new challenge.
How Beardsley Zoo Keeps Animals Comfortable in the Deep Freeze
As bitter cold settles in, Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is leaning on both nature and preparation to protect its animals. From thicker winter coats and natural heat-sharing behaviors to heated habitats and frost-free water systems, staff say the animals are well-equipped, and many even enjoy the snow.
Raising Cane’s Eyes Waterbury Mall for New Location
The popular chicken finger chain Raising Cane’s is planning a new restaurant at the Brass Mill Center in Waterbury. The location is still in the permitting phase, but if approved, the company aims to open in early 2027, continuing its rapid expansion across Connecticut.
Thanks!
Thanks for spending time with us today! We hope this roundup sparked a few ideas to help you get out, explore, and enjoy all that Connecticut has to offer this week.
If you enjoyed the read, feel free to share it with a friend who loves discovering new things to do.
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!