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- 🗓️End the Year Strong with Live Hockey, Theatre & Science Center Fun
🗓️End the Year Strong with Live Hockey, Theatre & Science Center Fun
Good morning, Connecticut! Hope your Tuesday is off to a solid start. We’ve got a fresh lineup of things to look forward to as the year winds down and the new one kicks off.
Here’s what’s inside today’s email:
🏒 A high-energy hockey showdown to close out the year
🎠A clever, laugh-out-loud puppet comedy at Fairfield’s Quick Center
🔬 A full day of hands-on science fun for families during winter break
📗 This Month in CT History: A Winter Mutiny at “Connecticut’s Valley Forge”
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed
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Fast-paced hockey action on New Year’s Eve
Ring in the final day of the year with an afternoon packed full of energy as the Hartford Wolf Pack face off against the Bridgeport Islanders at PeoplesBank Arena. This rivalry matchup promises quick plays, big hits, and an electric crowd — perfect for sports fans looking to end the year on a high note.
The puck drops at 3:30 pm on December 31, making it an easy addition to your New Year’s Eve plans before evening celebrations begin. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just love live sports energy, this game delivers excitement from start to finish.
A wildly original comedy about waiting, aging, and everything in between
Bill’s 44th is a smart, offbeat puppet performance created by Dorothy James and Andy Manjuck that turns a birthday party into a surprisingly touching exploration of loneliness and time. With balloons, puppetry, and a sense of humor that’s equal parts absurd and relatable, the show keeps audiences laughing while quietly sneaking in moments of reflection.
Running just 55 minutes, this inventive production plays at the Fairfield University Quick Center for the Arts on January 30 and 31, with multiple showtimes available. It’s a refreshing change of pace for theatre lovers looking for something playful, clever, and a little unexpected.
A full day of discovery for kids and curious minds
Families can kick off the new year with hands-on learning at the Connecticut Science Center during Open Winter Vacation. With more than 165 interactive exhibits, visitors can explore everything from space and motion to optical illusions and tropical butterflies — all under one roof.
Special seasonal features like the winter sock-skating rink and rotating exhibitions make each visit feel fresh, while the open schedule from December 26 through January 4 makes it easy to plan around school break. It’s an engaging, weather-proof way to keep kids learning and entertained.
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An all-inclusive New Year’s Eve celebration with premium drinks, dining, and skyline views
Looking for a New Year’s Eve plan that feels elevated without the stress? Step aboard the Cornucopia Destiny for a five-hour celebration on the water featuring a premium open bar, DJ-led dancing, and a festive buffet dinner — all wrapped into one unforgettable night. As the boat sets sail from Hoboken, guests can enjoy sweeping water views while the party builds toward midnight.
The evening includes a full buffet with favorites like Chicken Francese, Baked Tilapia, and Penne alla Vodka, plus desserts to finish strong. When the clock strikes twelve, everyone gathers for a champagne toast, party favors in hand, to welcome the New Year in style. It’s a 21+ experience designed for those who want great food, great music, and a memorable countdown — without bouncing between venues.
Spots are limited and this deal is moving fast, making it a solid pick for couples, friend groups, or anyone wanting a one-and-done New Year’s Eve plan.
TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS
Inspire Center – Expanded Hours (Hartford) - The Inspire Center offers hands-on creative space and activities during the school break.
Kid's Apple Pie Workshop During Winter Break at Lyman Orchards (Middlefield) - Join us for an Apple Pie Making Workshop for kids, families, and adults!
The Year in Review Trivia Night (New Haven) - Test your knowledge on the year's events and pop culture at this trivia night.
Best of Boston Comedy Festival (Old Saybrook) - Enjoy laughs as the Best of the Boston Comedy Festival returns to the Kate.
Yoga at the Mattatuck Museum (Waterbury) - Peaceful midday break inside the galleries, led by experienced registered yoga teacher Alex Capaldo.
Adam Ezra Group at Infinity Music Hall (Hartford) - Brings its dynamic blend of folk, rock, and roots music to Infinity Music Hall in Hartford.
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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
A Winter Mutiny at “Connecticut’s Valley Forge”
While Valley Forge is the most famous symbol of Revolutionary War suffering, Connecticut had its own brutal winter trial. In late 1778, thousands of Continental Army soldiers under General Israel Putnam settled into a winter encampment near Redding, enduring bitter cold, deep snow, and severe shortages of food, clothing, and blankets. The camp’s location was strategically important, but survival quickly became the soldiers’ primary concern.
Conditions worsened as troops went months without proper pay, receiving devalued paper currency that offered little help to their families back home. Frustration boiled over when a group of soldiers planned to abandon the camp and march to Hartford to demand relief from state leaders. Before the uprising could fully unfold, Putnam confronted the troops directly, delivering an impassioned speech that appealed to their honor, shared sacrifice, and loyalty to Connecticut.
His words worked. The mutiny dissolved, and most of the soldiers returned to their posts. Only one ringleader was ultimately punished, while the rest were treated with restraint. The winter remained harsh, but the army held together, and the Redding encampment earned its lasting nickname: “Connecticut’s Valley Forge.”
Today, the site is preserved as Putnam Memorial State Park, where monuments and inscriptions honor the soldiers who endured one of the most difficult chapters of the war on Connecticut soil.
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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE
New Year’s Eve Dining Goes All Out Across Connecticut
Restaurants across the state are welcoming the new year with special prix fixe menus, champagne toasts, and live entertainment. From high-end multi-course dinners to festive parties with DJs and midnight celebrations, Connecticut diners have no shortage of ways to ring in the year over a memorable meal.
Friday Night Snowstorm Delivers the Heaviest Snowfall of the Season
A powerful winter storm blanketed Connecticut with widespread snow, with some towns seeing totals near 11 inches. Communities across the state reported significant accumulations, making it the snowiest storm of the season so far and impacting travel into the weekend.
Gunfire Reported Inside Trumbull Mall After Argument Escalates
Shoppers were shaken Friday evening when a heated argument between teenagers inside Trumbull Mall led to at least one gunshot being fired. No injuries were reported, and police continue to investigate the incident while asking the public for any information that may help identify those involved.
Thanks!
Thanks for spending some time with us today! We hope this issue sparked a few ideas to get out, explore, and enjoy everything Connecticut has in store this week.
If you enjoyed the read, feel free to pass it along to a friend and help them stay in the loop on all the great things happening around the state.
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!