🐾Three Connecticut Picks: Market, Hockey & Zoo Fun

January 14, 2026

Happy Wednesday! If you’re looking for ways to mix a little local flavor, live action, and family-friendly fun into the week, we’ve got you covered. Today’s picks range from cozy community markets to high-energy hockey and a sweet, hands-on zoo program for little explorers.

Inside today’s email:

🥕 A welcoming winter market packed with local vendors
🏒 A fast-paced AHL hockey matchup in Bridgeport
🐾 A toddler-friendly zoo program all about animal tracks and trails
📗 This Month in CT History: The Hazardville Gunpowder Mill Disaster
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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A cozy Saturday market that brings the community together

Running from October 25, 2025 through March 7, 2026, the Durham Winter Market turns Saturday mornings into a relaxed, community-focused outing. Held from 10 AM to 1 PM at the Durham Community Center, the market features a rotating lineup of local vendors offering fresh food, handmade goods, and seasonal favorites.

With free admission and easy access just off Main Street, it’s the kind of low-key event that makes winter weekends feel warmer. Whether you’re stocking up, browsing, or just enjoying the atmosphere, it’s a simple way to support local makers and connect with neighbors.

Fast-paced hockey action under the lights

Hockey fans can catch the Bridgeport Islanders taking on the Springfield Thunderbirds on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 7:00–10:00 PM at Total Mortgage Arena. Expect high-energy play, hard hits, and plenty of crowd excitement as these AHL teams face off.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or just looking for a lively night out, this matchup delivers classic winter sports energy in the heart of downtown Bridgeport.

A hands-on animal experience for curious little learners

Designed especially for toddlers, Zoo Tots: Animal Tracks and Trails takes place on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 10:30–11:00 AM at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. This 30-minute program introduces young children to animal footprints and movement through stories, songs, simple crafts, and live animal encounters.

Geared toward kids ages 22 months to 4 years (with an adult), it’s a gentle, engaging way to spark curiosity about animals and the natural world in a fun, age-appropriate setting.

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An easy, feel-good winter activity for all ages

This ice skating deal at Hommocks Park Ice Rink makes it simple to get everyone on the ice without overthinking it. Located at 140 Hommocks Road in Larchmont, this enclosed rink offers year-round skating in a welcoming, community-focused setting that’s great for beginners and seasoned skaters alike.

The Groupon includes admission plus skate rental for one, two, or four people, so you can just show up and start gliding. Whether it’s a family outing, a low-key date idea, or a spontaneous plan with friends, the rink’s smooth ice and upbeat atmosphere make it easy to relax, laugh, and enjoy the moment together.

Hommocks Park Ice Rink has been a local favorite since 1975, known for its friendly vibe and all-ages appeal. From first-timers finding their balance to confident skaters doing laps, it’s one of those places where memories are made without needing anything fancy — just time on the ice.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

The Hazardville Gunpowder Mill Disaster

For much of the 19th century, Hazardville in Enfield was synonymous with gunpowder production. Built along the Scantic River, the Hazard Powder Company grew into one of the largest manufacturers in the country, supplying gunpowder for mining, westward expansion, and major conflicts including the Civil War. At its peak, the sprawling factory village produced thousands of pounds of powder daily and employed large portions of the local community.

Despite careful engineering meant to limit damage from accidents, the volatile nature of gunpowder always carried risk. That danger became reality in 1913, when a spark of unknown origin triggered a devastating chain reaction inside the mill. Four massive explosions tore through the facility, killing two workers, injuring dozens, and obliterating buildings that had been designed specifically to absorb blasts.

The explosions were powerful enough to shatter windows across Hazardville and neighboring towns, with reports of the blasts being heard more than 25 miles away. Homes, churches, and public buildings suffered extensive damage, and the once-bustling industrial complex was left in ruins.

In the aftermath, the company determined that rebuilding was neither practical nor financially viable. Operations were relocated out of state, bringing a sudden end to nearly a century of gunpowder manufacturing in northern Connecticut. The disaster marked a turning point for Hazardville, closing a chapter on one of the region’s most influential — and dangerous — industries.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Metro-North Overhauls Ticket Rules for CT Rider

Commuters on the New Haven Line are adjusting to major changes, including one-way tickets that now expire the next day, the elimination of round-trip tickets in favor of day passes, and higher onboard surcharges. Family fares were expanded to include kids up to 17, while a 5% fare increase is scheduled for July.

H&M and J.Crew Closing at Westbrook Outlets

Two national retailers are shutting their Westbrook Outlets locations this month, with clearance sales offering discounts up to 70%. The closures come as plans move forward for a major redevelopment of the outlet mall into a mixed-use complex.

Whole Foods Sets Opening Date in Cheshire

Whole Foods Market will open its new 42,000-square-foot Cheshire store on February 5, featuring more than 1,000 local New England products. Opening-day perks include giveaways for the first 300 shoppers and special donations to local food relief organizations.

CT Basketball Standout Jordan Sutton Draws National Attention

Stamford High’s nearly seven-foot-tall junior Jordan Sutton is quickly becoming one of Connecticut’s most talked-about basketball prospects. With Division I programs circling and rapid development on the court, coaches expect his recruitment to take off nationally this year.

Thanks!

Thanks for reading today’s newsletter! We hope it gave you a few fresh ideas to enjoy everything Connecticut has to offer this week.

If you liked it, feel free to share it with a friend who loves discovering what’s 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!