🌟Ski Jumps, Wine Sips & Family Fun

February 04, 2026

Happy Wednesday! Whether you’re planning ahead for the weekend or looking to lock in something fun before it fills up, we’ve pulled together a mix of high-energy winter tradition, elegant indulgence, and family-friendly theatre to keep things interesting.

Inside today’s lineup:

🎿 A milestone celebration of ski jumping history with a thrilling winter festival
🍷 A refined evening of wine, food, and giving back in the heart of Hartford
🌴 A beloved children’s book brought to life on stage for young audiences
📗 This Month in CT History: The World’s First Two-Sided Building
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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🎿 SOAR INTO A CENTURY OF SKI JUMPING AT JUMPFEST

A legendary winter tradition celebrates 100 years in Salisbury

Jumpfest returns to Satre Hill for its 100th anniversary, marking a century of ski jumping history at one of New England’s most iconic winter sport venues. Hosted by the Salisbury Winter Sports Association, this milestone weekend brings together elite athletes, Olympic hopefuls, and rising juniors for high-flying competition on the 20-, 36-, and 70-meter jumps.

The weekend kicks off Friday night with free admission, a Target Jumping event, and fireworks. Saturday and Sunday feature junior competitions, the Salisbury Invitational, the Eastern U.S. Ski Jumping Championships, live music, food, anniversary merchandise, and a special historical exhibit celebrating Salisbury’s ski legacy. It’s a rare chance to experience one of the East Coast’s only ski jump venues in action.

🍷 SIP FOR A CAUSE AT THE WINTER WINE GRAND TASTING

Fine wine, gourmet bites, and meaningful impact in Hartford

The Max Cares Foundation’s Winter Wine Grand Tasting returns to The Bushnell for an elegant evening of global wines and chef-crafted cuisine. Guests can sample an extensive selection of wines thoughtfully paired with dishes prepared by Max Hospitality chefs, all set inside one of Connecticut’s premier cultural venues.

Beyond the tastings, the event supports a powerful mission. Proceeds benefit nonprofit educational and charitable organizations across Greater Hartford and Springfield, along with scholarships for graduating seniors pursuing careers in hospitality and culinary arts. It’s a feel-good night out that pairs indulgence with community impact.

A joyful, interactive musical for young audiences

The beloved children’s book springs off the page and onto the stage with Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical at the Jorgensen Center. Designed especially for PreK–3 audiences, this playful production follows the alphabet letters as they climb the coconut tree, tumble down, and turn learning into lively fun.

Featuring catchy songs, energetic dancing, whimsical puppets, and plenty of audience interaction, the show introduces sound, rhythm, and reading in a way that keeps kids engaged from start to finish. It’s a bright, high-energy theatre experience that families can enjoy together.

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A high-flying indoor adventure packed with nonstop action

Urban Air Adventure Park in Oxford delivers an action-packed indoor experience where kids can jump, climb, and play to their heart’s content. With wall-to-wall trampolines, a warrior obstacle course, battle beams, climbing features, and an indoor playground, it’s designed to keep kids moving and entertained from start to finish.

The Deluxe Attractions Pass gives access to some of the park’s most popular features, making it a great option for everyday fun, school breaks, or rainy-day plans. There’s also a birthday party option for up to 10 children, complete with hosted setup, party supplies, and two full hours of high-energy fun—making party planning easy and stress-free for parents.

Right now, Groupon is offering up to 45% off Deluxe Attractions Passes and party packages, making this a budget-friendly way to treat kids to an unforgettable day of play.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

The World’s First Two-Sided Building

In the early 1960s, Hartford became the testing ground for a daring architectural idea when Phoenix Mutual Life Insurance Company revealed plans for a groundbreaking new headquarters along the Connecticut River. Designed by modernist architect Max Abramovitz, the building broke every convention of the time with its sleek glass exterior and unusual elliptical form.

Nicknamed “the Boat Building” for its canoe-like shape, the structure was the world’s first two-sided, elliptic lenticular cylinder. Stretching 225 feet long and rising 13 stories high, it stood out instantly on Hartford’s skyline and quickly became a symbol of forward-thinking design and corporate confidence.

Beyond its striking appearance, the building represented a major vote of confidence in downtown Hartford during a period when many companies were moving to the suburbs. Completed in 1963, it helped spark nearby urban renewal projects and remains a defining architectural landmark today, earning a spot on the National Register of Historic Places decades later.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

Chuckles Calls for More Winter in Connecticut

Connecticut’s official groundhog, Chuckles XI, saw his shadow this Groundhog Day, signaling six more weeks of winter. The annual tradition at the Lutz Children’s Museum once again brought the community together for some midwinter fun, even if spring will have to wait.

State Seeks New Ideas to Cut Energy Costs

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is requesting proposals for new zero-carbon and alternative energy sources, including nuclear, solar, wind, and hydropower. Officials say the move could help stabilize electricity prices and save ratepayers money in the long run.

Donahue’s Clam Castle Set for a Shoreline Comeback

A beloved Connecticut seafood landmark is returning to Madison this spring under its original owners. Donahue’s Clam Castle plans to revive its classic recipes and is already teasing what it calls the world’s biggest hot lobster roll.

Saks OFF 5TH to Close Remaining Connecticut Stores

Saks Global announced it will shut down its Saks OFF 5TH locations in Clinton and Stamford as part of a broader restructuring following bankruptcy proceedings. The closures mark the end of the retailer’s off-price presence in Connecticut.

Thanks!

Thanks for spending some time with us today! We hope this roundup sparked a few ideas to get out, explore, and make the most of what Connecticut has in store this week.

Enjoyed the read? Pass it along to a friend and spread the word 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!