🔥 Hot Wheels, Cool Otters & Secret Spots You’ll Love

🌟 Good morning! We’re halfway through the week and the summer vibes are already heating up! Whether you're all about furry wildlife, food truck feasts, or off-the-beaten-path adventures, we’ve got something to spice up your week. Scroll down to catch the best happenings around Connecticut — and maybe even discover a hidden gem or two.

Here’s what’s inside:

In the past, we relied on paper lists and brick-and-mortar stores, but Amazon Prime has revolutionized the way we shop.

While free shipping and exclusive shows are great, don't miss these 9 hidden perks that can enhance your membership.

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Celebrate Otters and Conservation at One of CT’s Wildest Events

World Otter Day at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is making a splash this Wednesday, May 28, and you're invited to dive into the fun! From 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport will be buzzing with otter-themed exhibits, educational chats with keepers, and plenty of wild facts about these playful aquatic creatures.

This special day shines a spotlight on otters’ role in the ecosystem and the ongoing efforts to protect their natural habitats. Guests can explore the River Otter habitat up close and learn how everyday choices can support wildlife conservation.

Don’t miss this unique chance to celebrate our furry water-loving friends — plan your visit today!

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Kick Off Summer with Food Trucks and Southern Rock Vibes

The Barnum Festival’s Concert & Food Truck Festival is turning up the volume on Saturday, May 31! Starting at 5:00 PM, the festival will feature high-energy performances by fan-favorite bands Hazzard County and Southern Fried — perfect for dancing the night away under the summer sky.

Even better? A fleet of local food trucks will be on hand to keep you fueled with everything from sweet treats to savory bites. Whether you're there for the music, the eats, or just to soak up the good vibes, it’s a can’t-miss celebration of local flavor and community spirit.

From Haunted Museums to Book-Loving Diners, These Spots Are Pure Magic

Our Ultimate Hidden Gems Guide is your ticket to the lesser-known, wildly cool side of the state. We’re talking underground prisons, spooky sanatoriums, medieval castles, and even a restaurant that gives you free books with every meal (yep, for real).

You’ll also find breathtaking natural wonders like Dinosaur State Park’s fossil tracks and Farmington’s eerie Shade Swamp Sanctuary. Add in paranormal museums, bizarre roadside attractions, and a castle that’s waiting for its glow-up — and you’ve got one heck of a weekend adventure list.

Get inspired, make your own quirky itinerary, and click here to uncover the weird, the wonderful, and the wow-worthy.

Most people prefer to smoke cannabis but that isn’t an option if you’re at work or in public.

That’s why we were so excited when we found out about Mood’s new Rapid Onset THC Gummies. They can take effect in as little as 5 minutes without the need for a lighter, lingering smells or any coughing.

Nobody will ever know you’re enjoying some THC.

We recommend you try them out because they offer a 100% money-back guarantee. And for a limited time, you can receive 20% off with code FIRST20.

This is an advertisement. 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!

Imagine this: It’s Saturday night, June 14. The engines roar, lights go out—and suddenly the whole track GLOWS. The crowd’s hyped. Kids are losing their minds. Grownups are too. You’re not dreaming. This is Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire and it’s everything your 8-year-old self (and let’s be real, current self) ever wanted. 🤯

📍 Where: Stafford Motor Speedway, Stafford
📅 When: June 14–15, 2025
🎟️ Deal: From $15 (reg. $49.50) – that’s 70% off

🔥 This isn’t just a show, it’s a full-on sensory explosion with trucks that defy gravity and childhood nostalgia that hits hard.

Whether you're going for the kids, the thrill, or your own Hot Wheels-core moment, this is THE summer event to catch. But snag your tix now—this deal’s heating up and might not last past today.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

🎶 Travelers Chorale: The Place Where We Belong (Hartford) - Enjoy a free concert by the Travelers Chorale, benefiting Hartford’s food pantry.

🦦 World Otter Day (Bridgeport) - Celebrate World Otter Day and learn about the importance of wildlife conservation.

🎨 Teen Time (Waterbury) - An evening of creative exploration for teens with crafts and games provided.

đź«– Preshow Tea Ivoryton Playhouse Tea at Five (Westbrook) - Enjoy an elegant afternoon tea before an exciting theatrical show.

🏡 Home Away From Homeschool (Waterbury) - A hands-on art program for homeschoolers to explore various artistic styles.

HAVE YOU BEEN HERE YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

Preparing Connecticut Women for Full Citizenship

In the spring of 1919, the momentum for women’s voting rights surged across the country—and Connecticut’s suffragists were ready to lead the charge. Just days after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill that would eventually become the 19th Amendment, the Connecticut Woman Suffrage Association (CWSA) launched a bold and unprecedented campaign to prepare women for the civic responsibilities of full citizenship.

On May 28, the CWSA, founded by Isabella Beecher Hooker, announced plans to educate every woman of voting age in the state. The goal: “intelligent citizenship.” With nearly 400,000 women expected to gain voting rights, the association formed committees in every county, distributing literature and organizing classes on history, government, and political engagement—open to women of all backgrounds.

CWSA President Katherine Ludington called on the public to support this effort financially, making it the first time in U.S. suffrage history that a state group publicly fundraised for civic education. As Ludington put it, “Connecticut, for the sake of her own welfare, must prepare her new citizens.”

A little over a year later, their efforts were rewarded when the 19th Amendment was ratified in August 1920.

Table legs get scratched, chew toys go missing, and shoes are constantly sacrificed at the altar of boredom. These are regular occurrences in life with pets, and seasoned owners won’t bat an eyelash.

But a $10,000 emergency surgery? That’s a whole other ball game. Pet insurance could help you offset some of these costs by providing up to 90% reimbursement, and plans starting at $10/month. Click below to learn more.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

🛠️ East Haddam Swing Bridge Reopens After $88.8M Rehab
The historic 112-year-old East Haddam Swing Bridge is officially reopened with modern upgrades, safer pedestrian access, and a full mechanical overhaul funded largely by federal dollars.

🏖️ EPA Awards CT Over $200K for Beach Water Quality Monitoring
Connecticut will receive more than $200,000 from the EPA to monitor beach bacteria levels and protect public health along its coastline.

🎉 Historic Bridge Gets a Modern Makeover and a Throwback Celebration
The East Haddam Swing Bridge’s grand reopening featured major structural upgrades and a nod to its 1913 roots—with oxen in attendance.

đź’° CT Lawmakers Eye $150-Per-Child Tax Credit in Final Budget Talks
With just days left in session, legislators are pushing for a phased-in child tax credit to provide financial relief to working families amid looming federal cuts.

Thanks!

Thanks for hanging out with us this week — we’re so glad you came along for the ride! Whether you’re planning your next local escape or just daydreaming for now, we hope this newsletter added a little spark to your day. ✨

If you loved what you read, go ahead and share it with a fellow Connecticut explorer — good vibes are meant to be spread! 🧡 Until next time, happy adventuring!

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!

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