🍓 Localpalooza, Strawberry Festival & Free Museum Admission

June 09, 2026

Good morning, Connecticut! If you're looking for ways to make the most of your weekend, today's featured events offer something for every interest.

Here's what's inside:

🎶 Connecticut's Localpalooza music and art festival
🍓 Strawberry Festival fun, food, and family activities
🏛️ Free admission and special exhibits during Connecticut Open House Day
đź“— This Month in CT History: A Tragedy That Changed Air Travel Forever
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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Connecticut musicians, artists, and families come together for a grassroots festival celebration

CT Localpalooza Music & Art Festival XII returns to Three Saints Park in Bethany on Saturday, June 13 at 11:30 AM. Now in its twelfth year, this family-friendly festival showcases Connecticut talent with live performances across multiple stages, local artists, vendors, and community activities throughout the day.

Festivalgoers can enjoy a diverse lineup of musicians, browse local artwork, and connect with creatives from across the state in a relaxed outdoor setting. Children 12 and under are admitted free, making it a great outing for music lovers of all ages.

Fresh berries, live music, food trucks, and family fun fill the day

The annual Strawberry Festival takes place at Lyman Orchards in Middlefield on Saturday, June 13 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Visitors can enjoy Pick Your Own strawberries, strawberry treats, food trucks, live music, pie-eating contests, petting farm visits, and plenty of activities for kids.

With free admission and something happening all day long, it's one of Connecticut's favorite ways to welcome the summer harvest season. Whether you're coming for the strawberries or the family entertainment, there's plenty to enjoy.

Special exhibits and curator experiences highlight Connecticut Open House Day

The Mattatuck Museum in Waterbury will open its doors for free during Connecticut Open House Day on Saturday, June 13 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibitions, participate in interactive activities, and meet guest curator Camilo Alvarez during special gallery conversations throughout the day.

The event also marks the opening of several new exhibitions, offering a unique opportunity to experience art, history, and culture at one of Connecticut's leading museums without the cost of admission.

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Enjoy 18 holes of championship golf with a cart included

Looking for your next round on the links? Norwich Golf Course is offering discounted packages for one, two, or four golfers to enjoy 18 holes of championship golf with carts included. Open to the public and nestled in the heart of Norwich, this historic course combines scenic views, challenging play, and a welcoming atmosphere for golfers of all skill levels.

Originally designed in 1926, the 18-hole course features rolling terrain, well-maintained greens, and a layout that keeps players coming back year after year. After your round, relax at The Caddy Shack Restaurant or browse the pro shop stocked with top golf brands and gear. Whether you're planning a solo outing or a day on the course with friends, this deal offers a great excuse to hit the fairways.

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

A Tragedy That Changed Air Travel Forever

In June 1971, Allegheny Air Flight 485 crashed while attempting to land in dense fog near Tweed-New Haven Airport. The commuter plane struck several homes before crashing, resulting in the deaths of 28 of the 30 people on board and becoming one of Connecticut's most devastating aviation disasters.

Investigators later determined that pilot error contributed to the crash. While only one passenger died from the impact itself, most of the fatalities occurred in the fire that followed, as many passengers were unable to locate or reach emergency exits in time.

The tragedy prompted significant changes to airline safety regulations across the United States. In the years that followed, federal rules began requiring airlines to clearly identify emergency exits and provide passengers with pre-flight safety briefings, practices that remain standard on commercial flights today.

Looking for an action-packed summer adventure? Six Flags New England in Agawam, Massachusetts is offering up to 43% off single-day admission tickets and discounted Silver Passes for the 2026 season. With more than 100 rides, shows, and attractions, it's the perfect destination for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking to make unforgettable memories.

Guests can experience world-famous rides like SUPERMAN™ The Ride and Wicked Cyclone, along with the park's newest attraction, Quantum Accelerator, New England's first dual-launch straddle coaster debuting in 2026. Whether you're chasing adrenaline-pumping thrills or enjoying classic family attractions, there's something for every age and adventure level.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Connecticut Dunkin' Tip Prompts Spark Debate

Some Connecticut Dunkin' drive-thru locations have introduced new card readers that ask customers if they'd like to leave a tip. While some customers appreciate the added security of handling their own payment cards, others say the prompt feels awkward or puts pressure on them to tip for simple orders.

Connecticut Garden Center Named Among America's Best

A Connecticut garden center has earned national recognition after being named one of the best garden centers in the country by HGTV. The honor highlights the state's growing reputation for exceptional gardening destinations and locally owned outdoor living businesses.

Westport Students Create Lead-Tracking Map For Connecticut

A group of Staples High School students has launched Lead Watch, a website that maps lead contamination reports submitted by residents across Connecticut. The project recently earned a Presidential Environmental Youth Award and aims to raise awareness about aging water infrastructure and lead exposure risks.

Gardeners Urged To Watch For Squash Vine Borers

UConn gardening experts are encouraging Connecticut gardeners to start scouting for squash vine borers before the destructive pest becomes active later this month. The insects can damage squash and pumpkin plants from the inside out, making early prevention and monitoring especially important.

Thanks!

That's a Wrap for Tuesday! Whether you're planning your next Connecticut adventure, looking for family-friendly fun, or just love discovering what's happening around the state, we're glad you spent a few minutes with us today.

Until tomorrow, keep exploring, keep supporting local, and keep making the most of everything Connecticut has to offer.

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!