Essex Library Association

In this 2-part August yoga series, yogis will learn valuable breathing and movement sequences that will connect their mind and body.&nbsp; Each one-hour class will include deep stretching and just a hint of strength work to help keep bodies healthy and agile. Modifications will be provided for anyone who needs them. All levels are welcome.&nbsp;
The library has a limited supply of yoga mats; we suggest&nbsp;bringing your own. All of the library's programs are free and open to all regardless of residency at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT. No registration necessary, drop in!
About Hannah Clark Hannah is pleased to&nbsp;offer the local community a safe space to practice yoga and is available to answer any questions that participants may have about the philosophy of the practice and how it relates to the body. She will focus her teachings on meditative slow flow vinyasa for this library series. She&nbsp;participated in a 200-hour yoga training workshop in Bali, Indonesia and teaches yoga locally.

Local Event: Yoga with Hannah

Middlesex County

Essex-Chester-Deep River

Connecticut

Yoga with Hannah

In this 2-part August yoga series, yogis will learn valuable breathing and movement sequences that will connect their mind and...

Ivoryton Library

Join the Ivoryton Library to celebrate Play in the Sand Day! We will use sand to make crafts, create art, and enjoy all things sand!

Local Event: Play in the Sand Day

Play in the Sand Day

Join the Ivoryton Library to celebrate Play in the Sand Day! We will use sand to make crafts, create art, and enjoy all things...

The Millrace

Program open to families with children and teens ages 5+.
The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Each week, join Essex Library for a hands-on workshop where we’ll explore a different hobby, skill, or craft.
Our last session is all about Geocaching! In this session, families will join Essex Land Trust to explore The Millrace property and learn how to use the free Geocache app to join the world’s largest treasure hunt by using a GPS-enabled device or smartphone to search for hidden geocaches!
This program will be held at The Millrace, Ivory St, Ivoryton. In the event of rain, this program will not be held.
This program is free and open to the public.
Registration is required.<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=&amp;EventID=590772&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Plant the Seed Learning Series: Geocache Adventure (Ages 5-18)

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Geocache...

Program open to families with children and teens ages 5+.
The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Each...

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Geocache Adventure (Ages 5-18)

Program for kids ages birth-5.
Join us for a hands-on, child-led play session designed to engage the senses! Sensory Playtime encourages exploration, creativity, and early learning through touch, sound, and movement. Kids are invited to move from station to station, at their own pace, to scoop, squish, pour, and play with a variety of textures and materials in a safe, supportive space alongside their caregivers. This program supports sensory development, fine motor skills, and social interaction—come play, learn, and make a (little) mess with us!
Program funded in part by the <a href="https://middlesexcountycf.org/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Community Foundation of Middlesex County</a>, and made possible by the GSB Grant Making Fund, and the Whelen Family Fund.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
No registration required. Drop in!

Local Event: Summer Sensory Play (Ages Birth - 5)

Summer Sensory Play (Ages Birth - 5)

Program for kids ages birth-5.
Join us for a hands-on, child-led play session designed to engage the senses! Sensory Playtime...

RiverFire Glass

Pick Your Project Glass Class
Enjoy the freedom to create a project that's uniquely yours while benefiting from plenty of guidance along the way. Your class includes up to 16 square inches of glass, with a wide variety of project ideas and materials to choose from.
We'll begin with a short introduction to the unique qualities and history of glass, followed by a demonstration of the hand tools used to cut and shape it safely. After you've had a chance to practice, we'll look at sample projects, discuss design tips, and help you create a piece you'll be excited to take home.

Local Event: RiverFire Glass Afternoon Fusing

RiverFire Glass Afternoon Fusing

Pick Your Project Glass Class
Enjoy the freedom to create a project that's uniquely yours while benefiting from plenty of...

Join the Ivoryton Library to celebrate World Elephant Day by making crafts all about these majestic creatures!

Local Event: World Elephant Day

World Elephant Day

Join the Ivoryton Library to celebrate World Elephant Day by making crafts all about these majestic creatures! 

The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Beat the afternoon heat, soak up the air conditioning, and join us for family-friendly movies that connect us with food, farms, &amp; nature. Popcorn provided.See the <a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsExtended.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;EventID=592147&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">library website</a>&nbsp;for movie titles, age rating, and description.

Local Event: Plant a Seed, Read! Family Movie Series

Plant a Seed, Read! Family Movie Series

The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Beat the afternoon heat, soak up the air conditioning, and join us...

Former ESPN Vice President, Mike Soltys, will appear at Essex Library to discuss the new book, Sports Heaven on August 12 at 6 p.m.The book accompanies the recent documentary, Sports Heaven: the birth of ESPN, which tells the incredible tale of Bill and Scott Rasmussen, the father and son team who against all odds and legions of doubters created the most significant sports business of all time. With unique perspectives from key players in the origin story, it’s an entrepreneurial roller coaster ride right up to ESPN's launch on September 7, 1979. Sports Heaven features the perspectives and insights of Bill, Scott and the team who built ESPN from a dream into a powerhouse. 
Mike Soltys was hired in the summer of 1980 as a college intern by ESPN’s founder, Bill Rasmussen, and served 43 years in ESPN’s corporate communications department, the last 20 as a vice president. Soltys returned to ESPN in 2024 as a part-time Historian. He served as producer of a documentary SportsHeaven: The Birth of ESPN and co-authored accompanying audio and print books. Copies of Sports Heaven will be available for purchase and signing.

Local Event: Sports Heaven: Author Talk with ESPN's Mike Soltys

Sports Heaven: Author Talk with ESPN's Mike Soltys

Former ESPN Vice President, Mike Soltys, will appear at Essex Library to discuss the new book, Sports Heaven on August 12 at 6...

Boston Post Road & Wall Street

Celebrate summer on the shoreline at &nbsp;Madison's 17th Annual Beachcomber Night!
Gather your family, meet up with friends, and come out for a great summer evening in Downtown Madison along Boston Post Road and Wall Street. • Delicious food trucks lining Wall Street • Connecticut craft beer, wine &amp; spirit tastings* • Live music throughout downtown • Shopping, specials, and in-store celebrations • Sweet treats and refreshing summer drinks • Activities and fun for all ages 
Beachcomber Night is the perfect way to celebrate summer and experience the best of the shoreline.
Thursday, August 13 4:00–7:00 PM Downtown Madison | Boston Post Road &amp; Wall Street
Skip the line and save time – buy your drink wristband today to enjoy over a dozen beer / wine / spirits from participating vendors.
Bring your friends and have a fun time out in the heart of Madison!
*Must be 21+ with valid ID to purchase and wear beverage wristbands.

Local Event: Beachcomber Night

New Haven County

Madison

Beachcomber Night

Celebrate summer on the shoreline at  Madison's 17th Annual Beachcomber Night!
Gather your family, meet up with friends, and...

Join us for a special Storytime with Sugar the therapy dog!

Local Event: Storytime with Sugar!

Storytime with Sugar!

Join us for a special Storytime with Sugar the therapy dog!

Join us at Essex Library for a 3-part meditation and mindfulness series with Caryl Horner. Each class provides a combination of instructional content and experiential practice in meditation &amp; mindfulness. Breath work, voice and walking meditations and a simple sound bath will also be provided over the 3 classes.
Aug. 13- Meditation 101 This first class presents how meditation reduces stress and quiets the mind, to experience a calm connection between mind &amp; body. The basics of how to meditate, develop a daily practice and the health benefits of such a practice will be covered. A guided group meditation will be presented.
Each participant will convey their individual interest/goal for this 3 part program.
About Caryl Horner Caryl is the founder &amp; director of Dharma Room in Chester. She has been meditating and working in the healthcare field for decades and has a Ph.D in Psychology. She is experienced in the following meditation modalities: Buddhist meditation,&nbsp; Mindfulness meditation, The Relaxation Response [Dr. Benson] &amp; Transcendental Meditation.Register at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the library at 860-767-1560.

Local Event: Meditation & Mindfulness Series at Essex Library: Meditation 101

Meditation & Mindfulness Series at Essex...

Join us at Essex Library for a 3-part meditation and mindfulness series with Caryl Horner. Each class provides a combination of...

Meditation & Mindfulness Series at Essex Library: Meditation 101

Be the fastest team to complete a jigsaw puzzle and win a prize!
Essex Library’s fifth annual jigsaw puzzle tournament begins at 10:00 a.m. and ends at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, August 14. Teams may consist of 2 to 4 people who will attempt to finish the same 500-piece puzzle in the least amount of time. A small prize will be awarded to the first team to either complete the puzzle or come closest to completion. Space is limited to five teams, so register early!
This event is FREE and open to the public at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT 06426.

Local Event: Fifth Annual Adult Jigsaw Puzzle Tournament at Essex Library

Fifth Annual Adult Jigsaw Puzzle Tournament at...

Be the fastest team to complete a jigsaw puzzle and win a prize!
Essex Library’s fifth annual jigsaw puzzle tournament begins...

Fifth Annual Adult Jigsaw Puzzle Tournament at Essex Library

Program designed around The Food Group book series by Jory John, written for an audience age 4-8. Kids ages 4-12 are welcome to join!
Today we will be reading The Bad Seed! This is a book about a bad seed. A baaaaaaaaaad seed. How bad? Do you really want to know? He has a bad temper, bad manners, and a bad attitude. He's been bad since he can remember! A funny yet touching tale that reminds us of the remarkably transformative power of will, acceptance, and just being you. Perfect for young readers, as well as anyone navigating their current world, The Bad Seed proves that positive change is possible for each and every one of us.
Cook, read, and explore with us in this deliciously fun program inspired by Jory John’s Food Group series, one of our featured authors in our “Plant a Seed, Read!” Summer Reading theme. This program will combine stories with simple snack-making. We’ll kick things off by washing hands and learning a few basic food safety tips, because every great chef starts with good habits. Then, we’ll introduce the day’s featured book, and participants will create a themed snack inspired by the story. While our creations bake, chill, or come together, we’ll gather for an interactive read-aloud of the book. Once everything is ready, participants can enjoy their snack or take it to go, along with a recipe card to try again at home. This program blends literacy, hands-on learning, and healthy habits, helping prevent the “summer slide” while keeping kids thinking, creating, and having fun all summer long!
Possible Allergens: recipe contains apples, sunflower seeds, olive oil, honey, cinnamon
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is required as space is limited.<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=592141&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Food Group: The Bad Seed (Ages 4-12)

Food Group: The Bad Seed (Ages 4-12)

Program designed around The Food Group book series by Jory John, written for an audience age 4-8. Kids ages 4-12 are welcome to...

Congregational Church-Deep Rvr

Browse, shop, eat, relax and enjoy the music at&nbsp;the Annual Flea Market&nbsp;at Deep River Congregational Church on&nbsp;Saturday, August 15, 8am - 2pm!
Live music and more than 80 vendor spaces to browse and shop on the expansive church field and grounds. Stop by the food courtyard for hamburgers, hot dogs, beverages and delicious baked goods. The event is held rain or shine.
For interested vendors:
Reserve your vendor space now for the 2026 Annual DRCC&nbsp;Flea Market !&nbsp;20’ x 20’ spaces are $35 each. To rent a space, visit the DRCC website to&nbsp;download a vendor reservation form and check&nbsp;a map of available spaces: <a href="https://deeprivercc.org/event/annual-flea-market-2/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">deeprivercc.org/event/annual-flea-market-2/</a><a href="https://deeprivercc.org/event/annual-flea-market-2/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a> or contact the church office at (860) 526-5045 (email:&nbsp;officedrcc@deeprivercc.org).
Deep River Congregational Church is located at 1 Church Street in Deep River, CT.
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Local Event: Annual Flea Market Saturday, August 15 at Deep River Congregational Church

Annual Flea Market Saturday, August 15 at Deep...

Browse, shop, eat, relax and enjoy the music at the Annual Flea Market at Deep River Congregational Church on Saturday, August...

Annual Flea Market Saturday, August 15 at Deep River Congregational Church

Safe Harbor Essex Island

Program open to children of all ages and their caregivers.
Join the Essex Library Children’s Librarian for a fun story time at Essex Island! Bring a blanket to sit on, and a snack to enjoy, while we read books, dance around, and sing songs!
Story time will take place on the lawn on Essex Island (behind Siren). The ferry to the island is located at 11 Ferry Street, Essex, CT 06426. In the event of rain, story time will not be held.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
No registration is required.

Local Event: Story Time at Essex Island

Story Time at Essex Island

Program open to children of all ages and their caregivers.
Join the Essex Library Children’s Librarian for a fun story time at...

Kaleidoscope

Learn how to wire wrap beautiful treasures just like the ones you find on the beach in this fun, hands-on workshop! Perfect for beginners and intermediate creators alike.
You’ll work with genuine sea glass and allergen-free wire in a variety of colors while learning how to use the tools and techniques needed to create your own designs. By the end of the class, you’ll complete TWO unique pendant necklaces—your choice of cords included!
<ul><li>🧵 All materials provided</li><li>🌈 Fabulous selection of sea glass</li><li>📄 Take-home information sheet</li><li>🎁 Sachet bag included</li></ul>



Instructor Laurie from Creative Girls Studios will guide you every step of the way with personalized, one-on-one attention.
<ul><li>📅 August 16th</li><li>⏰ 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM</li></ul>

⚠️ Limited spaces available – reserve your spot today!
Come and create something beautiful and leave with handmade jewelry you’ll love! 💙
#KaleidoscopeChester #WireWrapping #SeaGlassJewelry #CreateSomethingBeautiful #CTEvents #ConnecticutArt #HandmadeJewelry #ArtWorkshop #DIYJewelry #ShopLocalCT #CreativeCommunity #BeginnerFriendly #ThingsToDoInCT #creativegirlstudiosllc

Local Event: 🌊✨ Wire Wrapping Workshop – Create Your Own Beach-Inspired Jewelry! ✨🌊  August 16th @ 2pm

🌊✨ Wire Wrapping Workshop – Create Your Own...

Learn how to wire wrap beautiful treasures just like the ones you find on the beach in this fun, hands-on workshop! Perfect for...

🌊✨ Wire Wrapping Workshop – Create Your Own Beach-Inspired Jewelry! ✨🌊  August 16th @ 2pm

Kids are invited to join the Ivoryton Library in celebrating National Roller Coaster Day by building a roller coaster for a marble to run through! We will use common household materials to make a track and see how fast our marbles can go!

Local Event: Roller Coaster Day

Roller Coaster Day

Kids are invited to join the Ivoryton Library in celebrating National Roller Coaster Day by building a roller coaster for a...

Pick Your Project Evening Glass Class
Spend a fun and creative evening designing a fused glass project that's completely your own. Instead of everyone making the same piece, you'll choose from a wide variety of project ideas, or bring your own inspiration, while professional kiln glass artist Jeni GrayRoberts is there to offer as much guidance and encouragement as you'd like.
Whether you're creating a glass coaster, suncatcher, jewelry, a small dish, garden art, or something entirely different, you'll learn glass-cutting techniques, receive design tips, and enjoy a relaxed, engaging class with plenty of individual attention. Beginners are welcome, and experienced students will find lots of opportunities to explore new ideas.
Come on your own or with friends for an evening of creativity, laughter, and making something you'll be proud to display or give as a gift.

Local Event: RiverFire Glass Evening Class

RiverFire Glass Evening Class

Pick Your Project Evening Glass Class
Spend a fun and creative evening designing a fused glass project that's completely your...

Hartford Metropolitan Area

Clinton

The Haddams-Killingworth

Alfred Branch

New London County

The Lymes

Richard Kaufman

Guilford

Durham-Middlefield

North Branford

East Hampton-Portland

Chris Dehnel

Middletown

Ellyn Santiago

Branford

A professional artist's glass studio for creative expression

RiverFire Glass LLC

RiverFire Glass is a working kiln glass studio, gallery and teaching space where creativity, craftsmanship and community come together. Located in the heart of Deep River, Connecticut, RiverFire Glass specializes in kiln-formed glass art, handcrafted gifts and hands-on glass fusing experiences for beginners and experienced artists alike. Whether you're creating your first fused glass ornament or designing an intricate glass garden panel, you'll find a welcoming environment where exploration and creativity are encouraged. What makes RiverFire Glass unique is the combination of professional artistic expertise and genuine personal connection. Owner and artist Jeni GrayRoberts has taught more than 2,000 students and brings years of experience in glass, design and creative education to every class. Students are guided through the fascinating process of transforming colorful sheets of glass into beautiful finished pieces through cutting, layering and kiln firing. Unlike paint-and-sip style experiences that focus on reproducing a predetermined project, RiverFire Glass encourages individual expression. Many classes offer a wide range of project choices, design options and creative freedom, allowing each student to create something uniquely their own. Visitors can browse a gallery filled with original kiln glass artwork, functional home décor, jewelry and seasonal gifts, many inspired by nature, water and the beauty of the Connecticut River Valley. Sustainability and thoughtful craftsmanship are woven into the studio's philosophy, with an emphasis on minimizing waste and creating lasting pieces that bring joy for years to come. Whether you're looking for a memorable experience, a unique handmade gift or a chance to discover your creative side, RiverFire Glass offers an inspiring destination where art, learning and community meet.

RiverFire Glass is a working kiln glass studio, gallery and teaching space where creativity, craftsmanship and community come together. Located in...

Connecticut’s only nonprofit, fully integrated senior care

Masonicare

Headquartered in Connecticut and founded in 1898, Masonicare is the state’s only not-for-profit, fully integrated senior care continuum, guided by a longstanding, mission-driven commitment to enhancing quality of life for older adults. Masonicare offers vibrant residential communities and a comprehensive range of health and wellness services designed to promote independence, longevity, and purposeful living. Its statewide continuum includes independent living, assisted living services, skilled nursing, medical and non-medical home health, hospice, adaptive memory care, acute inpatient and outpatient senior behavioral health, outpatient rehabilitation, and audiology services, redefining how aging is experienced by advancing proactive wellness, integrated care, and meaningful connection at every stage of life.

Vincent Salzo

Wallingford

Headquartered in Connecticut and founded in 1898, Masonicare is the state’s only not-for-profit, fully integrated senior care continuum, guided by...

Custom Storage Solutions for the Whole Home

California Closets

From walk-in closets and Murphy beds to kitchen pantries, entertainment centers, and home offices, our professional closet designers are experts in the art of home organization. California Closets is distinguished by a legacy of innovation, organizational expertise, quality craftsmanship, and design authority. Our teams of professional design consultants and installers are dedicated to providing an exceptional experience throughout the entire process of creating and installing organizational systems for the whole home. Serving Fairfield, New Haven, Middlesex and New London counties. We are excited to share that our Greenwich showroom is now open. This vibrant space merges creativity and innovation, showcasing a carefully curated environment that emphasizes our latest products and offers an immersive experience for our customers.

Fairfield County

Hayleigh Evans

Monroe

From walk-in closets and Murphy beds to kitchen pantries, entertainment centers, and home offices, our professional closet designers are experts in...

Kaleidoscope Strategic Arts Collective in Downtown Chester

Kaleidoscope LLC

Kaleidoscope stands as Connecticut's premier art gallery and curated gift shop, dedicated to showcasing the extraordinary talents of regional artists and artisans. Strategically located in the historic downtown Chester, Connecticut, our gallery serves as a cultural cornerstone for art enthusiasts, collectors, and visitors seeking authentic, handcrafted treasures. Unparalleled Artisan Collection Our carefully curated collection features works from over 60 distinguished Connecticut artists and authors, representing the finest in regional creativity and craftsmanship. Kaleidoscope offers an ever-evolving selection of quality paintings, hand-thrown ceramics, artisan glasswork, textile arts, fine woodworking, designer jewelry, and locally-authored literature. Each piece tells a story, reflecting the rich artistic heritage and innovative spirit that defines Connecticut's creative community. Dynamic Cultural Programming Beyond our gallery walls, Kaleidoscope functions as a vibrant community hub, hosting signature events including exclusive book signings with local authors, live artist demonstrations, hands-on creative workshops, and engaging community gatherings. Our programming calendar ensures continuous opportunities for artistic discovery, skill development, and cultural enrichment. Integrated Culinary Experience Complementing your artistic journey, KaraBella's Kitchen—our in-house restaurant—provides a sophisticated dining experience, allowing guests to savor exceptional cuisine while surrounded by inspiring artwork. This unique integration of culinary and visual arts creates an immersive destination experience unmatched in the region. Visit &amp; Engage We invite art collectors, gift seekers, and culture enthusiasts to experience Kaleidoscope firsthand. Visit our downtown Chester location to explore our rotating exhibitions and discover one-of-a-kind pieces. For information about upcoming workshops, classes, and events visit our website or stop by our gallery.

Kaleidoscope stands as Connecticut's premier art gallery and curated gift shop, dedicated to showcasing the extraordinary talents of regional...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Events and Things to Do in Essex-Chester-Deep River, CT

Thursday, August 13

Beachcomber Night

AUG

13

4:00 PM

Madison, CT

Also around town...

Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending

Monday, August 10

Tuesday, August 11

Wednesday, August 12

Thursday, August 13

Friday, August 14

Saturday, August 15

Sunday, August 16

Monday, August 17

Tuesday, August 18

Wednesday, August 19

Beachcomber Night

RiverFire Glass LLC

Masonicare

California Closets

Kaleidoscope LLC