🍷 Mother’s Day Blooms, Book Finds & a Wine-Filled Night Out

May 06, 2026

Good morning, Connecticut! We’ve got a fresh lineup of things to check out across the state, whether you’re planning ahead or just looking for something new to mix into your week. From local events to community favorites, there’s a little something for every vibe.

Here’s what’s inside:

🌸 A Mother’s Day orchid sale worth stopping by
📚 A massive community book sale with something for everyone
🍷 A food, wine, and live music fundraiser night out
📗 This Month in CT History: The Hartford Whalers Leave Connecticut
📰 Local headlines you might’ve missed

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Find the perfect gift or brighten your own space with stunning orchids

Looking for something a little more unique this Mother’s Day? The Connecticut Orchid Society is hosting a special sale on May 9 from 10 am to 3 pm, featuring a wide variety of blooming orchids, plus books and potting supplies. It’s the kind of event where you can find a meaningful gift or just treat yourself to something that actually lasts longer than a bouquet.

The event takes place at First Congregational Church in Southington and is completely free to attend. Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover or just getting started, it’s an easy, low-key way to add something beautiful to your home or surprise someone with a gift that stands out.

Stock up on affordable reads while supporting your local library

Book lovers, this one’s for you. The Friends of the Guilford Free Library Spring Book Sale is back May 8 from 9 am to 5 pm and May 9 from 9 am to 4 pm, packed with gently used books across every genre you can think of. From fiction and cookbooks to kids’ books and puzzles, it’s basically a treasure hunt for your next favorite read.

Held at the Guilford Free Library, this long-running event is more than just a sale. Every purchase helps fund library programs, new materials, and community resources, so you’re not just getting a good deal—you’re giving back while you do it.

An elevated evening out that supports local arts

If you’re in the mood for something a little more elevated, Taste & Graze 2.0 is happening May 7 from 6 pm to 9 pm. This annual fundraiser brings together curated wine pairings, gourmet small plates, and live jazz for a relaxed but upscale night out.

Hosted at the Milford Arts Council, the event also features a silent auction and supports local arts programming in the community. It’s the kind of night that feels good and does good at the same time—great food, good vibes, and a solid cause behind it.

If you need a go-to plan that guarantees kids burn energy and actually have fun, this is it. Chuck E. Cheese is offering discounted family play packages and dining deals, giving you access to arcade games, interactive activities, and their classic pizza—all in one place. It’s basically a built-in “no thinking required” day out.

You can grab a $30 dining voucher for just $20 or go all in with a Family Play & Pizza Package that includes game time, a large pizza, drinks, and more. The best part? It’s valid any day, so you can use it whenever you need an easy win for the kids (or just want to keep them busy for a couple hours).

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An easy, affordable outing that keeps little ones entertained

If you’ve got young kids and need a go-to activity that actually holds their attention, this is it. MiniTown Cafe and Play in Fairfield offers a full-on imaginative play space designed just for kids ages 0–6, with mini setups like a firehouse, coffee shop, and more. It’s the kind of place where they can run around, role-play, and stay busy without you having to constantly come up with new ways to entertain them.

Right now, you can grab discounted open play passes for one, two, or even four kids, making it a super budget-friendly option for families. The space is clean, safe, and built for creative play, while parents can hang back and relax or grab something from the café. It’s low effort, high payoff.

TOP EVENTS TODAY YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS YET?

THIS MONTH IN CONNECTICUT HISTORY

The Hartford Whalers Leave Connecticut

In the late 1990s, Connecticut lost its only major professional sports franchise when the Hartford Whalers were relocated to North Carolina and rebranded as the Carolina Hurricanes. The move marked the end of an era for hockey fans in the state and left a lasting gap in Connecticut’s professional sports scene.

The team originally began as the New England Whalers in 1971, playing in the rival World Hockey Association before moving to Hartford in 1975. When the WHA merged with the NHL in 1979, the team officially became the Hartford Whalers. While they never dominated the league, they built a loyal and passionate fan base that continues to hold onto the team’s legacy decades later.

Even after the relocation, the Whalers’ identity hasn’t faded. Their iconic logo remains widely recognized, and merchandise continues to sell across the country, fueled by nostalgia and strong design. Occasional throwback games by the Hurricanes have kept that connection alive, and for many fans, the hope of seeing NHL hockey return to Hartford still hasn’t gone away.

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HEADLINES AROUND THE STATE

CT Hotel Earns Spot Among World’s Top 500

A luxury hotel in West Hartford has been named one of the top 500 hotels in the world, a major recognition in the global travel industry. The honor highlights Connecticut’s growing reputation for high-end hospitality and standout guest experiences.

Power Line Project Battle Heads to Court

United Illuminating is pushing back after its controversial power line proposal in Bridgeport and Fairfield was denied. The company has filed an appeal, arguing the decision process was inconsistent, while local leaders continue to oppose the project.

Historic CT Museum Offers Deeper Look at Colonial Life

A Wethersfield house museum where George Washington once stayed is giving visitors a more complete picture of colonial-era life. Beyond the well-known history, the exhibit highlights the realities of wealth, trade, and the lives of enslaved people in early Connecticut.

Lane Closures Coming to Major CT Highway

Drivers should expect delays as lane closures are set to begin on a major Connecticut roadway for bridge repairs. The work is part of ongoing infrastructure improvements, but will likely impact daily commutes.

Gardeners Warned to Avoid Certain Plants This Spring

Experts are advising Connecticut gardeners to skip certain invasive plants that can harm local ecosystems. Choosing the right plants can help support pollinators and protect native species across the state.

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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!