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

Middlesex County

Essex-Chester-Deep River

Connecticut

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...

Essex Library Association

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...

253-4 Grassy Hill Rd

Many boating items, including a Dyer Dhow rowing dinghy with oars and oar locks. Household items, pet items, children items including dolls and costumes, small furniture and many more. All reasonably priced to sell. Offers considered. Starting at 10AM, no earlier please.

Local Event: Yard Sale 10AM - 4PM

New London County

The Lymes

Yard Sale 10AM - 4PM

Many boating items, including a Dyer Dhow rowing dinghy with oars and oar locks. Household items, pet items, children items...

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

Join the UV Resin Jewelry Workshop on May 16 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.

Date: May 16, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Kaleidoscope 56 Middlesex Turnpike, Chester
Skill Level: All levels welcome Ages: 14 and upadvanced ticket purchase is required to secure your spot.

Local Event: A Uv Resin Jewelry Workshop

A Uv Resin Jewelry Workshop

Join the UV Resin Jewelry Workshop on May 16 at 2:00 PM hosted by Loris Resin Room. This hands-on class is perfect for anyone...

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.

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 0-3) This story time will take place on...

<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)

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

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Ages Birth-3) 

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

37 Main St, Deep River, CT

Directly across from the Deep River Firehouse.
<ul><li>When: Sat 5/23 (7am – 4pm) &amp; Sun 5/24 (7am – 3pm)</li><li>Where: 37 Elm St, Deep River</li><li>The Goods: Tools, jewelry, art, and women’s clothing.</li></ul>
Stop here first on your way to the Chester Town-Wide! See you at 7am!

Local Event: Estate Sale: The "Chester Tag Sale" Warm-Up Stop!

Estate Sale: The "Chester Tag Sale" Warm-Up Stop!

Directly across from the Deep River Firehouse.
When: Sat 5/23 (7am – 4pm) & Sun 5/24 (7am – 3pm)Where: 37 Elm St, Deep RiverThe...

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...

RiverFire Glass

Create a vibrant, freestanding glass garden that feels alive with color, texture, and movement. Designed specifically for advanced beginners and intermediate students, this is a focused, skill-building class where we work step by step toward a finished piece together.
In the first session, you’ll design and create your dimensional elements, adding depth and personality to your scene. After the initial firing, we return for session two to thoughtfully compose and assemble your full panel, about 8" x 5", before its final firing.This is an advanced beginner (or higher) class. We will certainly do a refresher for those for whom it's been a minute since your last glass cutting experience but we are not doing a full beginner class. &nbsp;The focus will be on sifting, making wafers, creating cabochons, all the elements that make this piece extra special.&nbsp;This photo shows a half completed piece. there will be more color and components when it is done.

Local Event: Glass Garden Panels, 2 session class

Glass Garden Panels, 2 session class

Create a vibrant, freestanding glass garden that feels alive with color, texture, and movement. Designed specifically for...

Fused Glass Nature Scene of Choice - May 28th 10am-12pm
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 vibrant land scape using a glass edge piece and a variety of other colorful glass pieces and expert guidance. 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
 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!** ****Long pants, shoes, and rubber/garden gloves required.****

Local Event: Fused Glass Nature Scene of Choice - May 28th 10am-12pm

Fused Glass Nature Scene of Choice - May 28th...

Fused Glass Nature Scene of Choice - May 28th 10am-12pm
Join local glass artist Carrie Yenovich for a fulfilled day focusing on...

Fused Glass Nature Scene of Choice - May 28th 10am-12pm

Valley Shore YMCA

Join us for a fun-filled day of activities including a petting zoo, rock climbing, and a bouncy slide. This free community event features local fire and police departments, eye screenings, snacks, games and much more. Admission is free.&nbsp; Donations to the Shoreline Food Pantry are encouraged!

Local Event: Healthy Kids Day

Westbrook

Healthy Kids Day

Join us for a fun-filled day of activities including a petting zoo, rock climbing, and a bouncy slide. This free community...

Hartford Metropolitan Area

Clinton

The Haddams-Killingworth

New Haven County

Alfred Branch

Madison

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...

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...

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....

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

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

Saturday, May 16

Yard Sale 10AM - 4PM

MAY

16

10:00 AM

The Lymes, CT

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

Thursday, May 14

Friday, May 15

Saturday, May 16

Tuesday, May 19

Wednesday, May 20

Saturday, May 23

Tuesday, May 26

Thursday, May 28

Saturday, May 30

Yard Sale 10AM - 4PM

The Artful Home Open House

Masonicare

California Closets

Kaleidoscope LLC

Monaco Ford of Niantic