🌼 Reptile Fest, Christmas in July & a Free Community Fair

July 21, 2026

Happy Tuesday, Connecticut! There's always something new to discover across the Nutmeg State, and today's edition is packed with fun ways to make the most of the week ahead.

Here's what's inside today:

🦎 Reptile Fest on the Farm
🎄 Christmas in July at Angevine Farm
🌼 Pollinator Expo & Community Fair
📗 This Month in CT History: The Birth of the World's First Combat Submarine
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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🦎 GET UP CLOSE WITH AMAZING REPTILES ON THE FARM

Meet fascinating reptiles, enjoy hands-on activities, and spend the day making family memories

Looking for a unique family adventure? Reptile Fest on the Farm is coming to Moonracer Farms in Terryville on July 26, bringing interactive reptile shows, up-close animal encounters, horse rides, a free petting farm, local vendors, delicious food trucks, and plenty of activities for all ages. Whether you're a reptile enthusiast or just looking for something different to do, this event promises an unforgettable day outdoors.

Admission is affordable, free parking is available, and the interactive reptile shows at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. are sure to be crowd favorites. Bring the whole family for an afternoon filled with wildlife, learning, and fun.

Shop local artisans, enjoy festive treats, and soak up the holiday spirit—summer style

Get a head start on holiday shopping at the Christmas in July Makers Market on July 25 at Angevine Farm in Warren. Browse handcrafted goods from talented local artisans, enjoy food trucks, baked treats, festive photo opportunities, and scenic views throughout the Christmas tree farm.

With admission just $5—including $3 in Pumpkin Dollars for the fall harvest season—and free admission for kids 12 and under, it's a fun outing for the whole family while supporting Connecticut's small businesses.

Celebrate pollinators, sustainability, and community at this free East Hartford event

The Mom's Garden Pollinator Expo & Community Fair returns on July 26 with an afternoon dedicated to nature, education, and family fun. Hosted at Emma & Nicholas DePietro Park, this free event features interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, local vendors, food, and educational experiences highlighting the importance of pollinators and sustainable living.

Bring a picnic, explore the vendor marketplace, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon while learning more about the plants, insects, and wildlife that help Connecticut thrive.

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Take on aerial ropes courses, zipline through the forest, and enjoy an unforgettable outdoor adventure

Ready to trade the ordinary for an adrenaline-filled day outdoors? The Adventure Park offers an exciting all-day experience with self-guided aerial ropes courses and ziplines set high among the trees. With trails designed for beginners through experienced climbers, you can challenge yourself at your own pace while enjoying breathtaking views and nonstop fun.

Whether you're planning a family outing, date day, or adventure with friends, this Groupon deal lets you save on All-Day Adventure Passes for groups of one, two, four, or six guests. After a brief safety orientation and harness fitting, you'll be free to explore color-coded climbing trails and thrilling ziplines all day long.

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

The Birth of the World's First Combat Submarine

Long before modern submarines patrolled the world's oceans, Connecticut inventor David Bushnell created what is widely recognized as the world's first combat submarine. A native of Saybrook and a Yale graduate with a passion for science, Bushnell combined his knowledge of physics and chemistry with a desire to support the American cause during the Revolutionary War.

In 1776, Bushnell and his brother successfully tested their remarkable invention, known as the Turtle, off the coast of Milford. The small wooden vessel featured groundbreaking innovations far ahead of its time, including a ballast system for diving, a screw propeller for movement, and even bioluminescent fungi to illuminate its controls beneath the water's surface.

Although the Turtle's only wartime mission ultimately fell short of its goal, the submarine proved that underwater combat was possible and laid the foundation for future naval technology. Today, David Bushnell's pioneering invention is remembered as one of Connecticut's greatest contributions to military innovation and engineering.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Community Rallies Around Beloved Band Director at Sousapalooza

A special Sousapalooza concert in Cheshire brought together musicians of all ages to celebrate the music of John Philip Sousa while welcoming former band director John Kuhner back to the conductor's podium after recovering from multiple strokes. The heartwarming event highlighted the power of community, music, and second chances.

New 'Click to Cancel' Law Gives Consumers More Control

Connecticut's updated "Click to Cancel" law is now in effect, requiring businesses to make subscription cancellations simple and straightforward. The law also mandates annual renewal reminders and quicker processing of cancellation requests to better protect consumers from unwanted recurring charges.

Boaters Reminded to Purchase Required AIS Stamp

State officials are urging anyone using motorboats or personal watercraft on Connecticut's inland waters to purchase the required Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Stamp before heading out this summer. Conservation officers will be conducting compliance checks as the program helps fund efforts to protect the state's lakes and rivers from invasive species.

Lettuce Recall Expanded Over Cyclospora Concerns

Connecticut residents are urged to check their refrigerators after an expanded recall involving certain Taylor Farms lettuce products due to possible Cyclospora contamination. Consumers should avoid eating recalled items and follow public health guidance if they purchased affected products.

Southington Veterans Memorial to Receive Major Restoration

Southington has secured $50,000 in state funding to restore its Veterans Memorial and correct longstanding errors, including adding the names of more than 50 previously omitted veterans. The town hopes to complete the updates in time for Veterans Day, ensuring local service members receive the recognition they deserve.

Thanks!

Thanks for spending part of your Tuesday with us! We hope today's edition inspired your next family outing, introduced you to a new local event, or simply helped you stay connected with what's happening across Connecticut.

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!