Essex Library Association

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)

Middlesex County

Essex-Chester-Deep River

Connecticut

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...

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=591887&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Essex Library Website</a> for movie titles, descriptions, &amp;&nbsp;age ratings.

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...

Grove Street Park & Playground

Program open to children of all ages and their caregivers.
Bring a blanket to sit on, and a snack to enjoy, while we read books, dance around, and sing songs in the park!
This program will be held at Grove Street Park, 16 Grove St, Essex, CT. 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: Grove Street Story Time

Grove Street Story Time

Program open to children of all ages and their caregivers.
Bring a blanket to sit on, and a snack to enjoy, while we read...

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 Cool Bean! Everyone knows the cool beans. They’re sooooo cool. And then there’s the uncool has-bean . . . Always on the sidelines, one bean unsuccessfully tries everything he can to fit in with the crowd—until one day the cool beans show him how it’s done.
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 chickpeas, basil, parmesan, olive oil, garlic, oregano, tomato paste
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=All%20Locations&amp;EventID=592128&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Food Group: The Cool Bean (Ages 4+)

Food Group: The Cool Bean (Ages 4+)

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...

Trinity Lutheran Church

Annual Tag Sale features thousands of items donated by multiple families.&nbsp; Furniture, jewelry, collectibles, kitchen items, sporting goods, books, home decor, many other items.&nbsp; Friendly church also selling new crafts, beverages and sweet treats!&nbsp; All proceeds support local charities or national disasters recovery.&nbsp; Hours are 8 am to 2 pm. Cash or check pls.

Local Event: Huge annual Tag Sale

Huge annual Tag Sale

Annual Tag Sale features thousands of items donated by multiple families.  Furniture, jewelry, collectibles, kitchen items,...

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...

shell&bee studio

<h3>Stained Glass Garden Gnomes</h3>
8/1 10:00am-12:00pm | $77 with DAB Stained Glass Artistry
Join DAB Stained Glass Artistry as she walks your through the art of soldering and putting together your own Garden Gnome. Each attendee will make one gnome (Choose the flower gnome or the butterfly gnome, OR BOTH) and you can customize your colors!

Local Event: Stained Glass Garden Gnomes

Stained Glass Garden Gnomes

Stained Glass Garden Gnomes
8/1 10:00am-12:00pm | $77 with DAB Stained Glass Artistry
Join DAB Stained Glass Artistry as she...

RiverFire Glass

Pick Your Project Glass Fusing Class
Curious about glass fusing or ready to build on what you already know? This flexible, hands-on class is a great place to start or stretch your skills.
We begin with a brief, engaging overview of glass, its unique properties, and a bit of its history. You’ll then watch a live demonstration covering how to safely and confidently use the tools for cutting and shaping glass. After that, you practice with the tools and then jump in and start creating. We’ll walk through sample pieces together and talk about what makes designs successful, so you can make informed, confident choices as you work.&nbsp;You'll be able to pick from many different project possibilities with several at each price point.

Local Event: Afternoon Fun with Glass

Afternoon Fun with Glass

Pick Your Project Glass Fusing Class
Curious about glass fusing or ready to build on what you already know? This flexible,...

<a href="https://libraryc.org/essexlib/102420/register" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">REGISTER HERE.</a>Join us for a conversation that’s sure to warm your heart (and make your stomach rumble), as we delve into the legacy of cooking icon Julia Child with Smithsonian curator and public historian Paula J. Johnson, author of&nbsp;Julia Child’s Kitchen:&nbsp;The Design, Tools, Stories, and Legacy of an Iconic Space. The book includes interviews with chefs who knew Julia well, commentary on her favorite culinary tools and kitchen gadgets, and a stunning array of photos. Registration is required for all virtual author talks. Register above, or at www.youressexlibrary.org or by calling the Library at 860-767-1560.

Local Event: The Legacy of Julia Child’s Kitchen with Smithsonian Curator Paula J. Johnson (Virtual Author Talk)

The Legacy of Julia Child’s Kitchen with...

REGISTER HERE.Join us for a conversation that’s sure to warm your heart (and make your stomach rumble), as we delve into the...

The Legacy of Julia Child’s Kitchen with Smithsonian Curator Paula J. Johnson (Virtual Author Talk)

Program for kids and teens ages 7-18.
The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Each week, join us for a hands-on workshop where we’ll explore a different hobby, skill, or craft.
This week, join calligraphy artist Debby Reelitz to bring the alphabet to life! We’ll look at the rules about letters and then break all of them! Step by step, you will learn more than 20 techniques to alter your handwriting, add color with a basic set of supplies and build in decorative elements. We'll be playing with highlighters, pencils, colored pencils, gel pens and markers. Plus, we'll create a mini-project with the techniques we'll learn.
Debby Reelitz’s 5th grade teacher introduced her to calligraphy and she loves to share her passion for handwritten letters with young people. Kids are taught the practical side of the alphabet with spelling and writing sentences and taking tests. Debby loves to help kids discover the joy in being creative with those oh-so-useful-26-symbols. Debby lives in North Granby, Connecticut. Information can be found at her website: <a href="https://letteringdesign.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://letteringdesign.com</a>
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=592138&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register!</a>

Local Event: Plant the Seed Learning Series: Handwriting Fun! (Ages 7-18)

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Handwriting...

Program for kids and teens ages 7-18.
The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Each week, join us for a...

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Handwriting Fun! (Ages 7-18)

Ivoryton Library

Kids and families are invited to join Ivoryton Library and celebrate National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day by making our own mug recipes for chocolate chip cookies!

Local Event: National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day

National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day

Kids and families are invited to join Ivoryton Library and celebrate National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day by making our own mug...

East Lyme Senior Center

Discover essential tips, advice, and support for finding the right senior resources in your community. This informative session is designed to help you navigate the complexities of elder care and identify where to start during your journey.

Local Event: ACAP SECT-River Valley Chapter (Adult Children of Aging Parents)

ACAP SECT-River Valley Chapter (Adult Children...

Discover essential tips, advice, and support for finding the right senior resources in your community. This informative session...

ACAP SECT-River Valley Chapter (Adult Children of Aging Parents)

In her national bestselling memoir,&nbsp;Like a Wave We Break, leadership coach Jane Chen pulls back the curtain on the conventional narrative of professional success. As the co-founder and former CEO of Embrace Global, Jane’s groundbreaking work with a portable incubator impacted over one million premature babies across 25 countries, earning international acclaim. Yet, behind the global recognition lay an invisible crisis: a relentless pursuit of purpose that ultimately resulted in total burnout. Her journey through that breakdown and subsequent healing reshaped her entire approach to what it means to guide others through uncertainty and change.Registration is required for all virtual author talks. Register <a href="https://libraryc.org/essexlib/189468/register" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">HERE</a>. This program is free and open to all.&nbsp;

Local Event: Like a Wave We Break: Overcoming Burnout with Author Jane Chen (Virtual)

Like a Wave We Break: Overcoming Burnout with...

In her national bestselling memoir, Like a Wave We Break, leadership coach Jane Chen pulls back the curtain on the conventional...

Like a Wave We Break: Overcoming Burnout with Author Jane Chen (Virtual)

Chester Meeting House

Program for families with kids of all ages.
The Tri-Town Libraries have collaborated to bring you the Matica Arts Circus Show at the Chester Meeting House!
Get ready for a captivating Circus duo poised to mesmerize audiences of all ages with breathtaking acts of daring and unparalleled skill. This highly engaging 40-minute interactive extravaganza is brimming with joyful, rowdy, contagious energy, and astounding athleticism.
&nbsp;This program is free and open to the public.
Registration is required as space is limited.
Register: <a href="https://deepriverlibrary.libcal.com/event/16741754" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://deepriverlibrary.libcal.com/event/16741754</a>

Local Event: Tri-Town Show: Matica Family Circus!

Tri-Town Show: Matica Family Circus!

 Program for families with kids of all ages.
The Tri-Town Libraries have collaborated to bring you the Matica Arts Circus Show...

At RiverFire Glass, we want you to be you and be free to make what you &nbsp;like. This class is designed to give you freedom within a supportive structure. For most students, the base project includes up to 16 square inches of glass, with plenty of options to choose from.&nbsp;Check out the extensive list of items you can make, even if you are a beginner. This class is designed to be fun and engaging for first time fusers as well as advanced students. Makes for a fun evening out with friends or family or can be a great way to meet people while learning something new.

Local Event: RiverFire Glass Fusing Class

RiverFire Glass Fusing Class

At RiverFire Glass, we want you to be you and be free to make what you  like. This class is designed to give you freedom within...

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 Couch Potato! The Couch Potato has everything within reach and doesn't have to move from the sunken couch cushion. But when the electricity goes out, Couch Potato is forced to peel away from the comforts of the living room and venture outside. Could fresh air and sunshine possibly be better than the views on screen?
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 sweet potato, cheese, eggs
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=592140&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Food Group: The Couch Potato (Ages 4+)

Food Group: The Couch Potato (Ages 4+)

Haddam Neck Covenant Church

Join us for a delicious drive-thru takeout event featuring a $15.00 dinner includeing a BBQ chicken quarter, baked beans, coleslaw, and a dinner roll. While limited picnic table seating is available, reservations are highly recommended as drop-ins will only be served until sold out; please note this is a cash-only event.

Local Event: Chicken BBQ

The Haddams-Killingworth

Chicken BBQ

Join us for a delicious drive-thru takeout event featuring a $15.00 dinner includeing a BBQ chicken quarter, baked beans,...

Join us for a delicious drive-thru takeout event featuring a BBQ thigh and leg chicken quarter, baked beans, coleslaw, and a dinner roll. For just $15.00 cash, guests can enjoy their meal on-the-go or at limited picnic table seating, with reservations highly recommended to ensure you don't miss out before we sell out.

Join us for a delicious drive-thru takeout event featuring a BBQ thigh and leg chicken quarter, baked beans, coleslaw, and a...

Hartford Metropolitan Area

Clinton

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

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

Saturday, August 1

Huge annual Tag Sale

AUG

1

8:00 AM

Trinity Lutheran Church, 109 Main St, Essex, CT

Saturday, August 8

Chicken BBQ

AUG

8

12:00 PM

Haddam Neck Covenant Church, 17 Haddam Neck Rd, East Hampton, CT

Also around town...

Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending

Wednesday, July 29

Thursday, July 30

Friday, July 31

Saturday, August 1

Monday, August 3

Tuesday, August 4

Wednesday, August 5

Friday, August 7

Saturday, August 8

Huge annual Tag Sale

Chicken BBQ

RiverFire Glass LLC

Masonicare

California Closets

Kaleidoscope LLC