Essex Library Association

A play-based music and movement story time for children and their caregivers! (Ages 0-3) This story time will take place on Tuesday mornings. Join us!
PLEASE NOTE: THERE WILL BE NO WIGGLE WORMS ON MAY 26
No registration required. Due to space, Please choose 1 session per day to attend.

Local Event: Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3)

Middlesex County

Essex-Chester-Deep River

Connecticut

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3)

A play-based music and movement story time for children and their caregivers! (Ages 0-3) This story time will take place on...

Local Event: Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3) 

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3) 

Program for kids birth – age 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!
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=567109&amp;PK=949029" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Registration is required for each individual session. Click here to register.</a>
NOTE: SENSORY PLAYTIME will not take place on May 20 or 27
Program funded in part by the <a href="https://middlesexcountycf.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Community Foundation of Middlesex County</a>, and made possible by the GSB Grant Making Fund, and the Whelen Family Fund.

Local Event: Sensory Playtime (Ages 0-5)

Sensory Playtime (Ages 0-5)

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

RiverFire Glass

Give your garden a little love, and a place for pollinators to land. In this class, you’ll create a small glass bowl designed to safely offer water to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. With a gently raised pebble center for easy perching, each piece is as functional as it is beautiful. Using vibrant frit and glass shards, you’ll design a bright, flower-inspired bowl that catches the light while quietly supporting the life that keeps your garden thriving.

Local Event: Glass Pollinator Drinking Bowls workshop

Glass Pollinator Drinking Bowls workshop

Give your garden a little love, and a place for pollinators to land. In this class, you’ll create a small glass bowl designed...

Program for families with kids of all ages.
Reading to a therapy dog has been proven to improve reading skills, self-esteem, and confidence in public speaking sessions. Kids are invited to sign up for a private 15-minute slot to read to and interact with local licensed therapy dog Louie the Labrador!
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is required.
<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=582495&amp;PK=949037" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register for the 5:15 time slot.</a>
<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=582495&amp;PK=949038" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register for the 5:30 time slot.</a>
<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=582495&amp;PK=949039" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register for the 5:45 time slot.</a>

Local Event: Louie Listens: Read to a Therapy Dog!

Louie Listens: Read to a Therapy Dog!

Program for families with kids of all ages.
Reading to a therapy dog has been proven to improve reading skills, self-esteem,...

Essex Library Association 

We asked and Baker Creek delivered! Thanks to a generous contribution by the rare seed company, you can join us to plant your choice of white strawberries, six inch tomato plants, purple carrots, rainbow corn, pink dandelions and more. All planting materials for this event will be provided by the Essex Library. Registration is encouraged as space is limited. Ages 12+.&nbsp;

Local Event: Grow a Rare Plant with Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds

Grow a Rare Plant with Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds

We asked and Baker Creek delivered! Thanks to a generous contribution by the rare seed company, you can join us to plant your...

Join us in conversation with Ruchika Sikri and Dr. Patrick Porter as we chat about their book,&nbsp;Brain Fitness Blueprint, in which they present a&nbsp;30-day action plan to supercharge your brain and achieve peak performance. <a href="https://libraryc.org/essexlib/156635" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">REGISTER HERE!</a>Registration is required for all virtual author talks. Visit the Events Calendar of www.youressexlibrary.org for a full program description.

Local Event: Ancient Wisdom and Modern Technologies for Peak Brain Performance, a Virtual Author Talk

Ancient Wisdom and Modern Technologies for Peak...

Join us in conversation with Ruchika Sikri and Dr. Patrick Porter as we chat about their book, Brain Fitness Blueprint, in...

Ancient Wisdom and Modern Technologies for Peak Brain Performance, a Virtual Author Talk

Brian Q. Torff, professor of visual and performing arts at Fairfield University, will provide an illustrated lecture on the development of American music from its African roots to the juke joint, club, and concert hall, revealing a culture perpetually reinventing itself to suit the next generation. Drawing from his book, Seize the Beat: The Evolution of American Music, Torff will show how the story of American popular music is steeped in social history, race, gender and class, its evolution driven by ephemeral connection to young audiences.
This program is free and open to the public at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT. Seating is limited. Registration is suggested. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or call the Library at 860-767-1560.

Local Event: "Seize the Beat: the Evolution of American Music" with Brian Torff at Essex Library Association

"Seize the Beat: the Evolution of American...

Brian Q. Torff, professor of visual and performing arts at Fairfield University, will provide an illustrated lecture on the...

"Seize the Beat: the Evolution of American Music" with Brian Torff at Essex Library Association

Program for kids ages 5-12.
Step into the “kitchen” with Miss Nicole and learn how to make chocolate dipped “monkey tails” from bananas, chocolate, and topping choices!
Allergens: recipe contains banana, chocolate, vegetable oil, and topping varieties. Please let us know of any food allergies so we can plan toppings accordingly.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is required.<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=582505&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Junior Chefs: Chocolate “Monkey Tails” (Ages 5-12)

Junior Chefs: Chocolate “Monkey Tails” (Ages 5-12)

Program for kids ages 5-12.
Step into the “kitchen” with Miss Nicole and learn how to make chocolate dipped “monkey tails” from...

Step into a space where creativity meets home. Join us for 'The Artful Home' Open House, a one-of-a-kind experience showcasing beautiful watercolor art, curated wallpaper designs, and modern styling ideas that bring your space to life. Alan James Art and&nbsp; AH Designs have joined forces, and will be hosting a joint Open House on May 16, 2026, 12pm. All merchandise and paintings at both shops will be discounted for this totally cool event. Indulge in wine, cheese and home inspiration. Plus, don't miss our exclusive raffles for a chance to take home some beautiful art, wallpaper, or some other fine goodies.&nbsp;See this event on your favorite social media.

Local Event: The Artful Home Open House

The Artful Home Open House

Step into a space where creativity meets home. Join us for 'The Artful Home' Open House, a one-of-a-kind experience showcasing...

Heron Pond, Heron Pond Road, Essex

Join the Essex Land Trust for an exploration of the pond and stream edges, looking for aquatic life. Please wear boots or shoes that you won’t mind getting wet.


Parking is limited at the preserve so please carpool if possible 
This event is weather dependent. &nbsp;Please check our Facebook page for updates. &nbsp;Dogs are not permitted at this event.

Local Event: Pond and Stream Probe: Naturalist Led Exploration at Heron Pond with Phil Miller

Pond and Stream Probe: Naturalist Led...

Join the Essex Land Trust for an exploration of the pond and stream edges, looking for aquatic life. Please wear boots or shoes...

Pond and Stream Probe: Naturalist Led Exploration at Heron Pond with Phil Miller

Program for kids ages 5-12.
Get ready to make a splash with art! Kids will use water guns filled with a mixture of tempera paint and water to create bold, one-of-a-kind masterpieces. This is sure to be messy, so dress to get splattered!
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is required.
This program will take place outside, please dress in clothes you do not mind getting messy. This program is weather-dependent. Registered patrons will be notified of cancellation due to weather via telephone or e-mail.<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=582506&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Kids Create: Water Gun Painting (Ages 5-12)

Kids Create: Water Gun Painting (Ages 5-12)

Program for kids ages 5-12.
Get ready to make a splash with art! Kids will use water guns filled with a mixture of tempera...

Kaleidoscope

Basket Weaving Workshop with Suzann Kober
Enjoy a relaxing and creative day learning the timeless art of basket weaving! This beginner-friendly class, led by Suzann Kober of Heaven and Earth Handwoven Baskets, will guide you through the fundamentals of weaving. You’ll learn essential techniques such as building from a solid wood base, twining, single-row weaving, and lashing. Choose from a variety of colors to make your basket uniquely yours.
Details:
<ul><li>Date: May 17</li><li>Time: 11 AM – 3 PM</li><li>Cost: $83 per person</li><li>Class Size: Minimum 5, maximum 12 participants</li><li>What to Bring: Scissors and a hand towel</li></ul>
Advance ticket purchase required. If the minimum enrollment is not met, all fees will be refunded.

Local Event: Basket Weaving Workshop with Suzann Kober

Basket Weaving Workshop with Suzann Kober

Basket Weaving Workshop with Suzann Kober
Enjoy a relaxing and creative day learning the timeless art of basket weaving! This...

A play-based music and movement story time for children and their caregivers! (Ages 0-3) This story time will take place on Tuesday mornings. Join us!
PLEASE NOTE: THERE WILL BE NO WIGGLE WORMS ON MAY 26
No registration required. Due to space, Please choose 1 session to attend.

<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/-0BEVUlrRKepRXEfi3PK8g" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">REGISTER HERE.</a>Join the Essex Library Association and the Essex Garden Club for a talk on the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants. The virtual talk, led by Peggy Cornett, curator of Plants at Monticello, and Frances Sewell, nursery manager for the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants, will focus on native plants, historic ornamentals and varieties associated with Thomas Jefferson, in addition to heirloom fruits and vegetables. The presenters will also touch on the overall restoration of Monticello’s gardens and grounds as well as the Center’s mission of education and preservation. This program is free and open to the public.&nbsp;Registration is required for all virtual programs. Register online at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the Library at 860-767-1560.

Local Event: A Presidential Garden Talk with the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants (Virtual)

A Presidential Garden Talk with the Thomas...

REGISTER HERE.Join the Essex Library Association and the Essex Garden Club for a talk on the Thomas Jefferson Center for...

A Presidential Garden Talk with the Thomas Jefferson Center for Historic Plants (Virtual)

What if the only thing standing between you and the seemingly impossible…was belief? This is the question posed by bestselling author Nir Eyal in his new work,&nbsp;Beyond Belief. <a href="https://libraryc.org/essexlib/157270/register" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">REGISTER HERE.</a>Registration is required for all virtual author talks. For a full program description, visit the Events Calendar on www.youressexlibrary.org.&nbsp;

Local Event: Reshape Your Beliefs and Unlock Your True Potential with Nir Eyal (Virtual Author Talk)

Reshape Your Beliefs and Unlock Your True...

What if the only thing standing between you and the seemingly impossible…was belief? This is the question posed by bestselling...

Reshape Your Beliefs and Unlock Your True Potential with Nir Eyal (Virtual Author Talk)

Join us at Essex Library for a mini Cello concert performed by Jihyeon “Celina” Berman. Berman will be performing a short program of Bach, Elgar, Saint-Saens and Piazzolla. The concert will be 30-minutes in length with opportunities to ask questions of the performer afterward. This program is free and open to the public. Seating is limited. Registration is suggested.&nbsp;This program is free and open to the public at 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT. Register&nbsp;<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsExtended.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;EventID=585720&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">HERE</a>.&nbsp;
Jihyeon “Celina” Berman Mrs. Jihyeon “Celina” Berman is an active cellist, soloist, and chamber musician. Celina was trained as a classical cellist at Sunhwa Art School and Sunhwa Art High School, before making her first debut at age fifteen at Kumho Art Hall in Seoul, Korea. She won many major international music competitions such as the Korea-Germany Brahms Competition, the Korea-USA International Competition, and the Mozart International Competition. Celina came to New York in 2009 to study at the Mannes School of Music, where she received the Merit Based Scholarship for both her Bachelors and Masters of Music, as well as graduating with honors. Celina studied cello with Fred Sherry and Jeffery Zeigler. She studied chamber music with Carl Schachter, Victor Rosenbaum, Edna Michell, Hiroko Yajima, Daniel Phillips and Todd Phillips of the Orion String Quartet. Celina frequently holds recitals as a solo musician and chamber player. Celina is passionate about teaching music, and has taught cello lessons in New York City from 2009, New Jersey from 2017, and in Connecticut from 2022. Celina most recently worked as a String Adjunct Teacher at Cheshire Academy. Today, Celina focuses on composing and improvising Christian cello music, creating works that blend her classical training with spiritual inspiration.

Local Event: Mini Cello Concert at Essex Library 

Mini Cello Concert at Essex Library 

Join us at Essex Library for a mini Cello concert performed by Jihyeon “Celina” Berman. Berman will be performing a short...

Join us for a special screening of the 2025 documentary:&nbsp;The Librarians.&nbsp;Maureen&nbsp;Sullivan, former president for the American Library Association, will&nbsp;make introductory remarks, placing the film's main themes in the context&nbsp;of Connecticut. A short discussion with the audience will follow the&nbsp;screening.




In the film,&nbsp;librarians emerge as first responders in&nbsp;the fight for democracy and our First Amendment Rights. As they well&nbsp;know, controlling the flow of ideas means control over communities. In&nbsp;Texas, the Krause List targets 850 books focused on race and LGBTQia+&nbsp;stories – triggering sweeping book bans across the U.S. at an&nbsp;unprecedented rate. As tensions escalate, librarians connect the dots&nbsp;from heated school and library board meetings nationwide to lay bare the&nbsp;underpinnings of extremism fueling the censorship efforts. Despite&nbsp;facing harassment, threats, and laws aimed at criminalizing their work –&nbsp;the librarians’ rallying cry for freedom to read is a chilling&nbsp;cautionary tale (Unrated, 92 minutes). Watch the official trailer <a href="https://youtu.be/Ykll4MWltsQ?si=SbTZb3zDRtzjoIUo" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">HERE.</a>&nbsp;This&nbsp;film was directed and produced by Kim A. Snyder and produced by Janique&nbsp;L. Robillard, Maria Cuomo Cole and Jana Edelbaum. Read more about the&nbsp;filmmakers <a href="https://thelibrariansfilm.com/filmmakers/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">HERE.&nbsp;</a>

Local Event: "The Librarians:" A Documentary Screening at Essex Library Association

"The Librarians:" A Documentary Screening at...

Join us for a special screening of the 2025 documentary: The Librarians. Maureen Sullivan, former president for the American...

"The Librarians:" A Documentary Screening at Essex Library Association

Program for families with kids ages 5 and below.
Join the Essex Library Children’s Librarian for purposeful story time sessions promoting key early literacy skills that invite caregivers and young children to learn, play, and experience stories together, following the CT Ready to Read with Sparkler curriculum, developed by the CT State Library.
Sparkler is a parent-focused app that sparks healthy early development for children (0-5) and families! Through the app, parents can check in on their child’s development and get a library of 1000+ play activities just right for your child’s age. Get regular coaching and advice. Sparkler is in English and Spanish, for iOS or Android.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
No registration is required, drop in!

Local Event: Ready To Read! (Ages 5 and below)

Ready To Read! (Ages 5 and below)

Program for families with kids ages 5 and below.
Join the Essex Library Children’s Librarian for purposeful story time sessions...

Hartford Metropolitan Area

Clinton

The Haddams-Killingworth

New Haven County

Alfred Branch

Madison

New London County

The Lymes

Richard Kaufman

Guilford

Durham-Middlefield

North Branford

East Hampton-Portland

Chris Dehnel

Middletown

Ellyn Santiago

Branford

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...

Experience The Monaco Difference. Extra Value. No Extra Cost

Monaco Ford of Niantic

Monaco Ford is a family-owned and operated Ford dealership proudly serving the Greater Connecticut and Western Massachusetts region since 1922. With over a century of automotive experience, Monaco Ford is committed to providing exceptional customer service, a transparent sales process, and a wide selection of new, used, and certified pre-owned Ford vehicles. Our dealership offers the full lineup of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, and commercial vehicles, including popular models like the F-150, Explorer, Bronco, and Super Duty series. In addition to vehicle sales, Monaco Ford provides expert automotive service and maintenance, genuine Ford parts and accessories, and a variety of financing and lease options tailored to meet each customer’s needs. Built on a legacy of integrity, community involvement, and customer satisfaction, Monaco Ford continues to uphold its mission: to deliver a better dealership experience where customers become lifelong friends.

Monaco Ford is a family-owned and operated Ford dealership proudly serving the Greater Connecticut and Western Massachusetts region since 1922....

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

Saturday, May 16

The Artful Home Open House

MAY

16

12:00 PM

116 Main St, Deep River, CT

Also around town...

Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending

Tuesday, May 12

Wednesday, May 13

Thursday, May 14

Friday, May 15

Saturday, May 16

Sunday, May 17

Tuesday, May 19

Wednesday, May 20

Saturday, May 23

The Artful Home Open House

Masonicare

California Closets

Monaco Ford of Niantic