Help Flood the Food Banks on Wednesday, August 5! Middlesex United Way, in partnership with The Flood Law Firm, is hosting a countywide food drive to benefit local food pantries throughout Middlesex County.
Community members are encouraged to donate nonperishable food and essential household items at participating collection sites across the county. Volunteers are also welcome to help collect donations throughout the day. (See link to sign-up to volunteer or donate)
The event is part of Middlesex United Way's Middlesex Pantry Project, an ongoing initiative to strengthen local food pantries and help ensure neighbors experiencing food insecurity have access to nutritious food year-round.<h3>Participating Collection Locations</h3>
<ul>
<li>
Adams Hometown Market – Deep River
</li>
<li>
Adams Hometown Market – Portland
</li>
<li>
Stop &amp; Shop – Clinton
</li>
<li>
Stop &amp; Shop – East Hampton
</li>
<li>
Stop &amp; Shop – Middletown
</li>
<li>
Lyman Orchards Apple Barrel Farm Market – Middlefield</li></ul>

Local Event: Flood the Food Banks Countywide Food Drive

Middlesex County

Middletown

Connecticut

Flood the Food Banks Countywide Food Drive

Help Flood the Food Banks on Wednesday, August 5! Middlesex United Way, in partnership with The Flood Law Firm, is hosting a...

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)

Essex-Chester-Deep River

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...

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...

RiverFire Glass

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+)

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...

Haddam Neck Covenant Church

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.

Local Event: Chicken BBQ

The Haddams-Killingworth

Chicken BBQ

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

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...

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

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)

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...

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)

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

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

Wednesday, August 5

Flood the Food Banks Countywide Food Drive

AUG

5

12:00 PM

Middletown, 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, August 5

Friday, August 7

Saturday, August 8

Monday, August 10

Tuesday, August 11

Wednesday, August 12

Thursday, August 13

Friday, August 14

Flood the Food Banks Countywide Food Drive

Chicken BBQ

RiverFire Glass LLC

Masonicare

California Closets

Kaleidoscope LLC