⛵ 3 Can’t-Miss CT Picks: Boat Show, Trucks & Theater

April 21, 2026

Good morning and happy Tuesday! If you’re already thinking about how to make the most of the days ahead, we’ve got a few standout picks worth adding to your plans.

Here’s what’s inside:

⛵ A spring boat show with live music and waterfront vibes
🚒 A hands-on family event with real emergency vehicles
🎭 A powerful, award-winning play you don’t want to miss
📗 This Month in CT History: Mark Twain’s Final Chapter in Connecticut
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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Waterfront vibes, boats, and live music

The Connecticut Spring Boat Show is back and kicking off the season in style from April 24–26 at Safe Harbor Essex Island. Running Friday from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm, this event brings together everything from sleek sailboats to luxury yachts, all set against a scenic marina backdrop you can only reach by ferry.

Beyond the boats, expect live music, coastal vendors, and a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere that makes it easy to spend a full day exploring. Whether you’re serious about boating or just want a unique day out by the water, this is one of those events that delivers the full experience.

Hands-on fun for the whole family

Head to Lyman Orchards Apple Barrel Farm Market in Middlefield on April 26 from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm for a free, interactive event that kids will absolutely love. Touch-a-Truck gives families the chance to get up close with real emergency vehicles, from fire trucks to police cars and ambulances.

It’s not just about looking, either. Kids can climb aboard, meet local first responders, and learn how these vehicles work in real life. It’s simple, fun, and one of those easy wins for a family day out.

An intimate story of change and connection

Primary Trust is taking the stage at Westport Country Playhouse from April 14 through May 2, with performances including April 21 from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. This Pulitzer Prize-winning play delivers a heartfelt story about stepping outside your comfort zone and finding connection in unexpected places.

Blending humor with emotional depth, the story follows a man navigating change after losing his job, guided by friendship and new experiences. It’s thoughtful, relatable, and the kind of performance that sticks with you long after the curtain closes.

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Vintage planes, hands-on exhibits, and family-friendly fun

Looking for something different that’s actually worth leaving the house for? Step into the Connecticut Air and Space Center and get up close with real aviation history—from WWII-era aircraft to interactive exhibits that bring early flight to life. It’s the kind of place where you’re not just looking at displays… you’re actually experiencing the story behind them.

Set inside an original WWII aircraft factory, this spot gives you a rare look at how aviation evolved, with restored hangars, iconic planes like the Corsair, and ongoing preservation projects happening right in front of you. Whether you’re a history buff, have a kid obsessed with planes, or just want a low-key but interesting day out, this hits that sweet spot of fun and educational.

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

Mark Twain’s Final Chapter in Connecticut

Mark Twain, born Samuel Clemens, remains one of the most iconic literary figures in American history—and much of his legacy is deeply tied to Connecticut. After years of travel and writing, he settled in Hartford’s Nook Farm, a hub for creatives at the time, where he produced some of his most celebrated works, including The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. His distinctive voice and sharp wit helped shape American literature as we know it.

Later in life, Twain moved to his estate in Redding, known as Stormfield, where he spent his final years surrounded by family and notable visitors, including Thomas Edison. Though those years included personal hardships, they also cemented his place as a cultural giant whose influence stretched far beyond Connecticut.

In a twist that feels almost scripted, Twain once predicted he would pass alongside the return of Halley’s Comet—and that’s exactly what happened. His death in 1910 marked the end of an era, but his stories, humor, and perspective continue to live on, making him one of Connecticut’s most unforgettable figures.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Iconic Connecticut Building Set for Demolition

A well-known Connecticut building seen by millions over the years is set to be torn down after nearly five decades. The structure has long been a recognizable landmark, and its demolition marks the end of an era as plans move forward for redevelopment of the site.

Longtime CT Radio Host Signs Off After Layoff

After more than 30 years on air, Connecticut radio host Allison Demers has announced her final show following budget cuts at iHeartMedia. Known for her connection with listeners and community involvement, her departure marks a big shift in the local radio scene.

BBB Warns of Rising Passport Scams in CT

The Better Business Bureau is urging residents to stay alert after a Connecticut resident was scammed by a fake passport website. Officials remind people that passport forms are free through official government sites and warn against entering personal information on suspicious or non-.gov websites.

New Family Entertainment Center Coming to North Haven

A new large-scale entertainment center, Fennec’s Place, is set to open in North Haven later this year. The space will feature arcade games, bumper cars, climbing structures, party rooms, and a full café—giving families a new go-to spot for fun.

Thanks!

Thanks for reading today! We hope this gave you a few solid ideas to get out, explore, and make the most of what Connecticut has to offer this week.

If you enjoyed it, send it to a friend who’s always down for something new—and help them get in on the fun 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!