🐾 From Bull Riding to Zoo Tots to Daddy Daughter Night

Happy Tuesday! If you’re already thinking about how to fill your week with something fun, we’ve got a few standout picks worth adding to your calendar. From high-energy arena action to hands-on learning for little ones and a heartwarming night out, there’s something for every age and vibe.

Here’s what’s inside:

🐂 PBR: Unleash The Beast in Bridgeport
🐾 Zoo Tots at Beardsley Zoo
💗 Daddy Daughter Date Night in Manchester
📗 This Month in CT History: Connecticut Takes a Stand Against a Federal Embargo
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

🍩 TREAT YOURSELF AT CINNABON — $25 TOWARD SWEET FAVORITES

If the smell of warm cinnamon makes you weak in the knees, this one’s for you. Right now, grab $25 toward cinnamon rolls, sweet treats, and drinks at Cinnabon for just $22.62. That’s instant savings on the dessert you were already craving.

Use your eGift Card like cash at participating Cinnabon locations, including Waterbury and 300+ spots nationwide. Go classic with the iconic Cinnamon Roll layered with Makara® cinnamon and cream cheese frosting, level up with a Caramel Pecanbon®, share a box of BonBites™, or pair it all with a Chillatta or specialty coffee. This isn’t a preset menu — order whatever your sweet tooth wants and let the credit apply at checkout.

👉 Grab your Cinnabon credit now and make your next dessert run count.

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🐂 EXPERIENCE THE THRILL OF PBR: UNLEASH THE BEAST

World-class bull riding takes over Bridgeport

High-adrenaline rodeo action returns to Bridgeport as Professional Bull Riders bring Unleash The Beast to Total Mortgage Arena at 600 Main Street. Over two electrifying nights — Friday, February 27 and Saturday, February 28, 2026 — the world’s top riders face off against some of the toughest bulls in the sport.

Performances begin at 7:45 pm each night (event window listed 7:30–9:30 pm), delivering nonstop, heart-pounding competition packed with power, precision, and fearless athleticism. Two-day ticket options are available for fans who want the full experience.

🐾 DISCOVER HOW ANIMALS STAY WARM AT ZOO TOTS

A cozy winter learning experience for little explorers

On Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 10:30 am to 11:00 am, Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport hosts Zoo Tots: Staying Warm at the Kathy Brady Education Center, located at 1875 Noble Avenue.

Designed for children ages 22 months to 4 years (with an accompanying adult), this engaging program introduces young learners to how animals survive winter. Through stories, songs, crafts, and up-close encounters with animal ambassadors, kids explore cold-weather adaptations in a hands-on, age-appropriate setting.

💗 PLAN A SPECIAL DADDY DAUGHTER DATE NIGHT

A memorable evening at Chick-fil-A Buckland Hills

On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Chick-fil-A Buckland Hills at 1428 Pleasant Valley Road in Manchester hosts a heartwarming Daddy Daughter Date Night.

This reservation-only event features a beautifully decorated dining room, tableside service, a fun surprise at each table, and individual photos for each dad-and-daughter duo — emailed within 24 hours. Admission is free, with guests paying only for their meal. Capacity is limited, so reserving early is encouraged.

Why Cranberry Alone Isn't Enough (And What Actually Works)

You've probably heard that cranberry juice helps with bladder health. And while cranberries do offer some benefits, they're not the complete answer—especially when it comes to stopping nighttime urination and regaining bladder control.

The real solution involves targeted nutrients that work together to strengthen your bladder, reduce nighttime urgency, and help you finally sleep through the night. It's simple, natural, and backed by science.

Discover what actually works to stop peeing at night

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⛳ PLAY 18 HOLES OF INDOOR MINI GOLF AT LESSARD LANES

A glow-style course in Plainville perfect for all ages

Looking for a fun indoor activity that works rain or shine? Lessard Lanes in Plainville is offering up to 30% off an 18-hole indoor mini golf experience for two or four players — and you can save even more with promo code TOPDEALS.

This isn’t your average mini golf setup. The immersive indoor course features natural landscaping, waterfalls, and a flowing stream that make every hole feel like a mini adventure. Each stop brings a new challenge, keeping both kids and adults entertained from the first tee to the final putt. It’s family-friendly, handicap accessible, and ideal for date nights, birthday outings, or a spontaneous weekend plan.

With over 1,600 positive reviews and a 4.7-star rating, it’s a proven crowd-pleaser. Just note: mini golf is not valid on Saturdays after 5:00 pm, so plan accordingly.

👉 Grab the deal and book your round here

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

• Shucked (Hartford) - A hilarious musical comedy that is sure to satisfy your appetite for great theater.

• Artist Talk: What is Here? (Storrs) - Ray DiCapua discusses his intricate drawings that explore perception and meaning.

• The Robert Cray Band (Hartford) - Experience the blues icon’s remarkable journey through five decades of music.

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HAVE YOU BEEN HERE YET?

WANT TO CATCH SOME LIVE MUSIC THIS WEEK?👇

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 Takes a Stand Against a Federal Embargo

In the early 1800s, political tensions between Connecticut’s Federalist leaders and President Thomas Jefferson’s Democratic-Republican administration ran deep. Those tensions escalated dramatically after Jefferson signed the Embargo Act of 1807, a federal law that shut down American international trade in response to interference from European powers during wartime.

For Connecticut, whose economy relied heavily on shipping and maritime trade, the embargo was devastating. Merchants watched ships sit idle in port, farmers struggled as export goods spoiled, and frustration spread across the state. Newspapers criticized the policy, smuggling quietly increased, and resentment toward what many called “Jefferson’s Embargo” intensified.

The most dramatic response came from Governor Jonathan Trumbull Jr., who declared the embargo unconstitutional and refused to enforce it in Connecticut. He urged lawmakers and citizens to resist what he saw as federal overreach and called on other New England states to stand with Connecticut. By formally refusing to implement a federal law, the state made one of the earliest and boldest assertions of states’ rights in American history.

The embargo was repealed shortly afterward, having inflicted widespread economic hardship. Connecticut’s defiance remains one of the state’s most controversial and consequential political moments — a powerful example of how local resistance helped shape the national conversation about federal authority and individual liberty.

The Rewards Credit Card Made Just for Pet Parents

With vet costs rising 60% over the past decade, pets and pet parents both deserve a little relief.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Connecticut Lottery Launches “Millionaire for Life”

The Connecticut Lottery has rolled out a new multistate draw game called Millionaire for Life, offering a top prize of $1 million per year for life and a second prize of $100,000 per year for life, both with a 20-year minimum payout. Players can also opt for an $18 million lump sum. Tickets cost $5, drawings are held nightly at 11:15 pm, and the odds of winning the top prize are 1 in 22.9 million.

Dirty Soda Trend Expands to Connecticut

Utah-based FiiZ Drinks is bringing the viral “dirty soda” craze to Brookfield with its first East Coast location, opening March 7 at 782 Federal Road. The shop will offer more than 10,000 custom and pre-made drink combinations, plus snacks like cookies and pretzels. Founder David Baulsir says the concept taps into nostalgia for classic soda fountains while offering a modern twist.

Windsor Pauses License Plate Reader Program

The Windsor Town Council voted 8–1 to temporarily turn off its 16 Flock Safety license plate reader cameras amid privacy concerns raised by residents. Officials plan to review and potentially renegotiate the contract before it renews in May. Supporters argue the cameras help solve crimes, while critics worry about data privacy and broader surveillance issues.

Proposal Could Ease Bear Permit Rules for Farmers

A new bill would make it easier for Connecticut farmers to obtain permits to kill nuisance black bears damaging crops or livestock. Currently, farmers must first attempt non-lethal deterrents and complete a review process. The proposal would allow permits based on verified prior-season damage and exempt large cornfield owners from certain requirements, sparking debate over wildlife management and fairness.

Thanks!

Thanks for spending part of your day with us! We hope something in today’s lineup inspired you to get out, try something new, and make the most of your week in Connecticut.

If you enjoyed this edition, pass it along to a friend who’s always looking for something to do — the more explorers, the better.

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!