Essex Library Association

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 Good Egg! Meet the good egg. He’s a verrrrrry good egg indeed. But trying to be so good is hard when everyone else is plain ol’ rotten. As the other eggs in the dozen behave badly, the good egg starts to crack from all the pressure of feeling like he has to be perfect. So, he decides enough is enough! It’s time for him to make a change…
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 eggs, bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, mayo, mustard
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=592125&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Food Group: The Good Egg (Ages 4+)

Middlesex County

Essex-Chester-Deep River

Connecticut

Food Group: The Good Egg (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...

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

Join the UV Resin Jewelry Workshop on June 27th at 2:00 PM hosted by Loris Resin Room. This hands-on class is perfect for anyone interested in creating unique jewelry designs while learning essential resin crafting techniques. Explore the art of UV resin and discover how to work with molds, pigments, and embellishments to design one-of-a-kind pieces. All materials and tools are provided, ensuring a seamless and creative workshop experience. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned crafter, this workshop is a great opportunity to enhance your skills in a fun and supportive environment.

<ul><li>Date: June 27th, 2026</li><li>Time: 2:00 PM</li><li>Location: Kaleidoscope 56 Middlesex Turnpike, Chester</li><li>Skill Level: All levels welcome Ages: 14 and up</li><li>advanced ticket purchase is required to secure your spot.</li></ul>

Local Event: UV Resin Christmas in July Ornaments Workshop July 18th 2pm-4pm - Loris Resin Room

UV Resin Christmas in July Ornaments Workshop...

Join the UV Resin Jewelry Workshop on June 27th at 2:00 PM hosted by Loris Resin Room. This hands-on class is perfect for...

UV Resin Christmas in July Ornaments Workshop July 18th 2pm-4pm - Loris Resin Room

Moroso Performance Products

Join us for Cars &amp; Coffee, a patriotic Car Show supporting Connecticut's bravest. Sponsored by APK Charities, all proceeds benefit CT veterans, active-duty service members, and Gold Star families in memory of Special Forces Captain Andrew Pedersen-Keel, KIA 11 March 2013 in Afghanistan.

Local Event: Cars & Coffee

New Haven County

Madison

Cars & Coffee

Join us for Cars & Coffee, a patriotic Car Show supporting Connecticut's bravest. Sponsored by APK Charities, all proceeds...

In this 3-part yoga series, yogis will learn valuable breathing and&nbsp;movement sequences that will connect their mind and body.&nbsp; Each one-hour&nbsp;class will include deep stretching and just a hint of strength work to&nbsp;help keep bodies healthy and agile. Modifications will be provided for&nbsp;anyone who needs them. All levels are welcome.&nbsp;No registration necessary, drop in!

Local Event: Yoga with Hannah (2 of 3)

Yoga with Hannah (2 of 3)

In this 3-part yoga series, yogis will learn valuable breathing and movement sequences that will connect their mind and body. ...

A play-based music and movement story time for children and their caregivers! (Ages birth - 3) This story time will take place every Tuesday morning. Join us!
No registration required. Due to space, Please choose 1 session to attend.

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

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3)

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

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

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3) 

Program for kids ages 5-12.
Join Miss Nicole to build, engineer, and code with LEGO® WeDo! Create exciting projects like a light-up snail, a spinning fan, and Milo the moving Mars rover while exploring the basics of engineering, robotics, and coding. With endless possibilities to build and discover, LEGO® WeDo is a great introduction to coding!<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsExtended.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;EventID=592171&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Registration is required. Click here to register.</a>
<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=592171&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Registration is required. Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Plant the Seed Learning Series: Coding with LEGO® WeDo! (Ages 5-12)

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Coding with...

Program for kids ages 5-12.
Join Miss Nicole to build, engineer, and code with LEGO® WeDo! Create exciting projects like a...

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Coding with LEGO® WeDo! (Ages 5-12)

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...

Register HERE or call the library at 860-767-1560.Noted storyteller and journalist Mike Allen, former host of the popular podcast Amazing Tales About History, will provide a lecture at Essex Library on the key people and events in Connecticut during the nation’s tumultuous march to independence, 250 years ago. Prominent historical figures contributed to the formation of the new country, while Connecticut earned the nickname “the provision state” because of its supplies of food and ammunition to the Continental Army. Space is limited. Registration is suggested.
This program is free and open to the public at Essex Library Association, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT.
About Mike Allen
Mike Allen specializes in bringing history to life, through his background in journalism, radio broadcasting, podcasting and public speaking.
Mike hosted the podcast Amazing Tales About History for four years, producing 200 episodes about Connecticut history.
For 10 years, Mike was a radio news director in Connecticut before becoming Press Secretary to the Mayor of Danbury.
During a subsequent, 25-year corporate career, he worked and lived internationally, specializing in marketing and communications.
Mike has lived in Connecticut for more than 50 years.

Local Event: Connecticut and the Revolution with Mike Allen, presented by Essex Library Association

Connecticut and the Revolution with Mike Allen,...

Register HERE or call the library at 860-767-1560.Noted storyteller and journalist Mike Allen, former host of the popular...

Connecticut and the Revolution with Mike Allen, presented by Essex Library Association

Downtown Madison

<h2>The Biggest Sale of the Summer </h2><h2>is in Downtown Madison!</h2>
It's time to shop your favorite local businesses and discover incredible savings during the Madison Summer Sidewalk Sale, happening July 23–26 at participating shops along Boston Post Road &amp; Wall Street.
Whether you're looking for summer fashions, books, gifts, jewelry, home décor, or one-of-a-kind finds, you'll discover special sidewalk sale pricing while supporting the local businesses that make our community thrive.
Participating Stores:
Angie Lu • Ciao Bella • Country Shop • Deux Bisous • Gabel Design Studio • Homeward Collective • J. Horton • J. McLaughlin • Junk2-Junque • Maggie's of Madison • Molly Rose • RJ Julia Booksellers • Slate • The Dressing Room • Walker Loden • Water Street Jewelers • Willow &amp; Birch Creations
July 23–26&nbsp; | &nbsp;10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Shop Local. Enjoy Local. Save Local. Come explore downtown Madison, find your next favorite purchase, and support the local businesses that make our community such a special place to shop, dine, and visit.

Local Event: Annual Summer Sidewalk Sale in Downtown Madison!

Annual Summer Sidewalk Sale in Downtown Madison!

The Biggest Sale of the Summer is in Downtown Madison!
It's time to shop your favorite local businesses and discover incredible...

Join local glass artist Carrie Yenovich for a fulfilled day focusing on creativity and the art of glass fusing.
Discover the art of fused glass in this engaging hands-on workshop! Learn to create your own Parrot that can sit in a tree outside or in a planter or piece of wood. Watch how your design comes to life as light dances through the finished piece. Perfect for beginners and enthusiasts, all materials are provided, and no prior experience is necessary.
 Beginner Class ~ You'll learn How to score and cut glass safely Which glass materials are suitable for glass fusion Tools are necessary for glass art How to plan and layer your glass art design A brief overview of the process of glass kiln firing to fuse those glass layers together
****Long pants, shoes, and rubber/garden gloves required.****
Skill Level: Beginner Ages: 14 and up. (8-13 with a paid adult) Instructor: Carrie Yenovich Pick-up in 2 weeks. Each piece has to be fired twice!

Local Event:  Parrot Bird ~ Thank Glass Thursdays July 23rd 10am-12pm Fused Glass Classes 

 Parrot Bird ~ Thank Glass Thursdays July 23rd...

Join local glass artist Carrie Yenovich for a fulfilled day focusing on creativity and the art of glass fusing.
Discover the...

 Parrot Bird ~ Thank Glass Thursdays July 23rd 10am-12pm Fused Glass Classes 

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...

Join local glass artist Carrie Yenovich for a fulfilled day focusing on creativity and the art of glass fusing.
Discover the art of fused glass in this engaging hands-on workshop! Learn to create your own Iris Flower. I will attach the cooper steam once it's fired. Watch how your design comes to life as light dances through the finished piece. Perfect for beginners and enthusiasts, all materials are provided, and no prior experience is necessary.
 Beginner Class ~ You'll learn How to score and cut glass safely Which glass materials are suitable for glass fusion Tools are necessary for glass art How to plan and layer your glass art design A brief overview of the process of glass kiln firing to fuse those glass layers together
****Long pants, shoes, and rubber/garden gloves required.****
Skill Level: Beginner Ages: 14 and up. (8-13 with a paid adult) Instructor: Carrie Yenovich Pick-up in 2 weeks. Each piece has to be fired twice!

Local Event:  Iris Flower ~ Thank Glass Thursdays July 23rd 10am-12pm Fused Glass Classes 

 Iris Flower ~ Thank Glass Thursdays July 23rd...

 Iris Flower ~ Thank Glass Thursdays July 23rd 10am-12pm Fused Glass Classes 

Enjoy a movie on the big screen in the Buel Room of Essex Library! For the movie title, visit the Library's Events Calendar <a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsCalendar.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;thisMonth=7&amp;thisYear=2026" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">HERE</a> or call the Library at 860-767-1560.

Local Event: Movie Matinee at Essex Library

Movie Matinee at Essex Library

Enjoy a movie on the big screen in the Buel Room of Essex Library! For the movie title, visit the Library's Events Calendar...

Radici at the Stand

Join us for a fun night of art! CT artist, Hillary Hany, will be guiding attendees through how to paint a beautiful canvas.
Whether you're a seasoned painter or picking up a brush for the first time, this relaxed, welcoming event is the perfect way to unwind and express yourself. This event is open to all! We're excited to now host this event at a new location, Branford's newest hotspot, Radici at the Stand!
🗓 Date: July 23
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
💲 Cost: Just $15 per person
All materials, appetizers, and pizza will be provided—just bring your creativity! The featured design is of a beautiful tree in a meadow!
📍 NEW Location:
Radici at the Stand
196 S Montowese St
Branford, CT 06405
Grab a friend or come solo and meet new people while enjoying a laid-back night of painting and fun. Spots are limited, so be sure to reserve yours today!

Local Event: Root Center Paint night at Radici at the Stand

Branford

Root Center Paint night at Radici at the Stand

Join us for a fun night of art! CT artist, Hillary Hany, will be guiding attendees through how to paint a beautiful...

Food Group: The Smart Cookie (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 join!
Today we will be reading The Smart Cookie! This cookie has never felt like a smart cookie no matter how hard she tries, especially in comparison to all the clever cupcakes and brilliant rolls in the bakery. Will a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of confidence be enough to help her learn that perfect scores and having all the answers aren’t the only ingredients for intelligence?
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 apple, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, coconut, &amp; chocolate
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=592126&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Food Group: The Smart Cookie (Ages 4-12)

Food Group: The Smart Cookie (Ages 4-12)

Falls River Park Falls River Drive, Ivoryton

Join the Essex Land Trust for a guided Canoe/Kayak paddle around Mill Pond.&nbsp; Sue and Bob Cornell, Jean Island Stewards and avid paddlers will lead the armada.&nbsp; Please arrive early. Participants must check-in on site, sign a waiver, and launch their boats prior to the 10:00 am departure. Parking is onsite. Bring a lunch, refreshments and join us for a picnic after the paddle.

Local Event: Family Paddle Exploring Mill Pond with Essex Land Trust

Family Paddle Exploring Mill Pond with Essex...

Join the Essex Land Trust for a guided Canoe/Kayak paddle around Mill Pond.  Sue and Bob Cornell, Jean Island Stewards and avid...

Family Paddle Exploring Mill Pond with Essex Land Trust

Octopus or Starfish Trinket Dish Class Your Choice July 25th 2pm-4pm

Join us for the Octopus or Starfish Trinket Dish Class on July 25th, from 2 pm to 4 pm, and explore your creativity with a fun and engaging workshop. Choose between designing an octopus or starfish-themed trinket dish as you learn step-by-step crafting techniques from our skilled instructor. This class is perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike, offering all the necessary materials to bring your design to life. By the end of the session, you'll have a custom-made, functional piece of art that’s both decorative and practical. Participants of all skill levels are welcome, and no prior experience is required. All tools and supplies will be provided for use during the class. Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot early. Join us for a creative afternoon !

Skill Level: Beginner Age: 14 and up (8-13 with paying adult) Instructor: Lori Hartman Pick up one week Later

Local Event: A Uv Resin Jewelry Workshop

A Uv Resin Jewelry Workshop

Join us for the Octopus or Starfish Trinket Dish Class on July 25th, from 2 pm to 4 pm, and explore your creativity with a fun...

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

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

Sunday, July 19

Cars & Coffee

JUL

19

9:00 AM

Moroso Performance Products, 80 Carter Dr, Guilford, CT

Also around town...

Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending

Friday, July 17

Saturday, July 18

Sunday, July 19

Monday, July 20

Tuesday, July 21

Wednesday, July 22

Thursday, July 23

Friday, July 24

Saturday, July 25

Cars & Coffee

RiverFire Glass LLC

Masonicare

California Closets

Kaleidoscope LLC