✨ Explore The Griswold Inn, Halloween Town & Putnam’s Pumpkin Fest!

October 15, 2025

Hey there, Connecticut friends! 👋 We’re halfway through the week, and what better way to celebrate than with a lineup of classic New England charm, family fun, and fall festivities? From dining inside a piece of American history to celebrating Halloween by the waterfront (and even a pumpkin-packed festival!), there’s plenty to love around the state this week.

Here’s what’s inside:

🍽️ Step back in time at one of America’s oldest restaurants
🎃 Celebrate Halloween by the sea in New London
🎵 Enjoy pumpkins, music & more at Putnam’s Great Pumpkin Festival
📗 This Month in CT History: From Hartford to the Halls of Moscow
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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🍽️ THE GRISWOLD INN: A LIVING SLICE OF AMERICAN HISTORY

Where 250 Years of Hospitality Meets Coastal Charm

Step through the doors of The Griswold Inn, and you’re not just entering a restaurant — you’re stepping into a story that’s been unfolding since 1776. Known affectionately as “The Gris,” this Essex landmark has been welcoming travelers, sailors, and locals for nearly 250 years.

From the maritime-inspired taproom to the award-winning wine list, The Gris seamlessly blends historic ambiance with modern culinary flair. Executive Chef Toppin’s menu pays homage to traditional American fare, featuring seasonal seafood and timeless favorites like the legendary Hunt Breakfast — a Sunday tradition since 1812.

After a hearty meal, unwind in one of the inn’s cozy rooms, stroll along the Connecticut River, and take in the beauty of historic Essex. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or just love a good story, The Griswold Inn is a must-visit Connecticut treasure.

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A Spooktacular Evening of Trick-or-Treating, Costumes & Family Fun

Mark your calendars for Friday, October 17, when New London’s Halloween Town transforms the Waterfront Park into a magical, moonlit celebration! Families can trick-or-treat along the waterfront, show off their costumes in the city’s contest (Pre-K to 5th grade), and enjoy live entertainment by Justine Nicole Entertainment and the Luis Pabon Dance Arts Centre.

The New London Fire Department will be on-site with their safety trailer, sharing important tips to keep your Halloween fun and worry-free. From costumes and candy to laughter and lights, it’s everything you love about fall — all in one unforgettable night by the water.

📍 New London Waterfront Park | Oct. 17, 6–8:30 PM | Free Admission

Fall Fun, Local Flavor & a Whole Lot of Pumpkins

Downtown Putnam is turning orange for one of Connecticut’s favorite fall traditions — Putnam’s Great Pumpkin Festival! Happening Saturday, October 19 from 10 AM to 3 PM, this family-friendly celebration features a craft and art fair, live music, kids’ activities, and local shops decked out in full autumn style.

It’s the perfect way to spend a crisp fall Saturday — surrounded by pumpkins, community spirit, and the small-town charm that makes Connecticut shine.

📍 Downtown Putnam | Free Admission

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Catch the Beloved Book Series Come to Life — Now 39% Off on Groupon!

Dog Man The Musical is bounding into Wallingford’s Toyota Oakdale Theatre for one night only — Thursday, October 17 at 7 p.m. Based on Dav Pilkey’s bestselling Dog Man series (from the creator of Captain Underpants), this laugh-out-loud musical is perfect for kids and kids-at-heart alike.

Join half-dog, half-man hero Dog Man as he fights crime, sniffs out silliness, and learns the power of friendship and doing good — all set to catchy songs, colorful sets, and nonstop fun. It’s family-friendly theater at its best, combining clever humor, big heart, and a dash of chaos that’ll have the whole crowd howling with laughter.

🎟️ Deal Alert: Save 39% on select seats — tickets start at just $25 (regularly $41.25)! Hurry, the Groupon deal ends soon.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HOW MANY OF THESE HAVE YOU VISITED?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

How a Connecticut Governor Became America’s Ambassador to Russia

In the mid-1800s, Thomas H. Seymour was one of Connecticut’s brightest political stars — and one of its most polarizing. A decorated war hero and four-term governor, Seymour’s path took an unexpected turn in 1853 when President Franklin Pierce appointed him as the U.S. minister to Russia.

Before his diplomatic post, Seymour had already made his mark: a Hartford judge at 30, a congressman, and a celebrated major in the Mexican-American War, where he earned the nickname “Hero of Chapultepec.” Riding that fame, he became Connecticut’s governor in 1850 — a position he held for four consecutive years.

When he resigned in October 1853 to accept the ambassadorship, Seymour seemed destined for national prominence. But by the time he returned to Connecticut in 1858, the country was on the brink of Civil War. His calls for peaceful reconciliation with the South — and his fierce criticism of President Lincoln — turned many against him.

Despite two failed bids to reclaim the governor’s office and an unsuccessful run for president, Seymour remained a fascinating figure in Connecticut history: a war hero, a diplomat, and a man whose politics reflected a deeply divided nation.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

🎶 Local Musicians Take the Stage at Mohegan Sun
The Locals Live Music Competition is back for its 11th year at Mohegan Sun’s Wolf Den, kicking off November 12. Twelve bands and solo artists from across the region will battle it out for a $5,000 grand prize and a headlining slot in the Wolf Den. The free, four-week event runs Wednesdays through December 10, with audience votes deciding who advances.

🔧 Family-Owned Tire Shop Says Goodbye After 36 Years
After more than three decades serving the Wallingford community, Jim and Patty Zuppe of Turnpike Tire & Auto Service are retiring on October 17. The longtime owners expressed gratitude to their loyal customers and announced that new owner Mike Caprio will take over operations, continuing the shop’s legacy of trusted service.

🚗 BJ’s Wholesale Club Gets Green Light for New Car Wash
Southington’s Planning and Zoning Commission has approved BJ’s Wholesale Club’s plan to build a 4,800-square-foot car wash on its Spring Street property. The new facility will include pay stations, office space, and EV-friendly parking — marking another expansion for the busy retail hub.

🪓 Stumpy’s Hatchet House to Close Manchester Location
Manchester’s axe-throwing hotspot, Stumpy’s Hatchet House, announced it will close permanently on October 31. The team thanked the community for years of “unforgettable memories” and invited fans to stop by for one last “axe-travaganza” before Halloween night.

Thanks!

Thanks for reading today’s newsletter! We hope it sparked some inspiration to get out, explore, and make the most of all that Connecticut has to offer this week.

If you enjoyed it, share it with a friend — and help them discover the best events, hidden gems, and happenings across the state 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!