Essex Library Association

Program designed for caregivers and their child, age birth – 2.
In Baby Keepsake, our sensory art explorations expose baby to a variety of textures, while creating something to remember your little one in their youngest years.
This month: Let’s celebrate Fall! Transform salt dough into an adorable clay pumpkin keepsake with your child’s hand or footprint!
What to Expect:
We’ll gather together for a brief lap sit story session, and then caregivers and babies will work together to make our keepsake!
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=598116&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Baby Keepsake (Birth - Age 2)

Middlesex County

Essex-Chester-Deep River

Connecticut

Baby Keepsake (Birth - Age 2)

Program designed for caregivers and their child, age birth – 2.
In Baby Keepsake, our sensory art explorations expose baby to a...

Ivoryton Library

Kids and families are invited to join the Ivoryton Library in celebrating National Dessert Day by creating all kinds of no-bake desserts! From pudding “dirt” to edible cookie dough, we will make lots of treats to enjoy!

Local Event: National Dessert Day

National Dessert Day

Kids and families are invited to join the Ivoryton Library in celebrating National Dessert Day by creating all kinds of no-bake...

The Essex and Brainerd Libraries will jointly sponsor a forum for state senate and house candidates in our shared districts on Wednesday, October 14th at 6:30 PM in the auditorium at John Winthrop Middle School. Participating candidates for the District 36 House seat are Renee LaMark Muir (D) and Guy Tuccero (R) and for the District 33 Senate seat Incumbent Senator Norm Needleman (D) and Charles Ferraro (R). Moderators will be Essex Library Director Ann Thompson and Brainerd Library Director Marissa Lehmacher.
 This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please call the Essex Library at 860-767-1560 or the Brainerd Library at 860-345-2204. John Winthrop Middle School is located at 1 Winthrop Road in Deep River.

Local Event: Candidate Forum for State Representative (D- 36) and State Senator (D-33) Candidates

Candidate Forum for State Representative (D-...

The Essex and Brainerd Libraries will jointly sponsor a forum for state senate and house candidates in our shared districts on...

Candidate Forum for State Representative (D- 36) and State Senator (D-33) Candidates

Bushy Hill Preserve, Bushy Hill Road, Ivoryton 

Join us for a Thursday morning guided hike exploring the Bushy Hill and Platt Preserves which we are pleased to be co-sponsoring with the Valley Shore YMCA. Our Bushy Hill and Platt Preserves are a local gem. The preserve is fully wooded and hugs the Falls River in the southern part of the Platt Property. Terry Steward, the steward of our Platt Preserve, will lead the hike. &nbsp;There are a lot of interesting features including a mountain laurel maze, foot bridges, and a cascade on the Falls River. This hike will be 1.5 hours over moderate terrain. Please arrive by 9:45 AM for a timely start. Park at the Bushy Hill Preserve Trailhead and on Bushy Hill Road. &nbsp;You will be directed by our team. &nbsp;




This hike is weather dependent. &nbsp;Please check our Facebook page for updates. &nbsp;Dogs are ok and must be on leash at all times

Local Event: Thursday Morning Hike at Bushy Hill/Platt Preserve - Essex Land Trust & YMCA

Thursday Morning Hike at Bushy Hill/Platt...

Join us for a Thursday morning guided hike exploring the Bushy Hill and Platt Preserves which we are pleased to be...

Thursday Morning Hike at Bushy Hill/Platt Preserve - Essex Land Trust & YMCA

Essex Library Association 

Reserve a festive Teen Book Box on our website by filling out our Book Box Form (<a href="https://forms.gle/dNmNkyuLsveAoEz2A" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/dNmNkyuLsveAoEz2A</a>) and our Teen Librarian will use your reading preferences to create a subscription box just for you. Included in your package will be books tailored to your reading preferences, themed snacks, and other small goodies. Ages 12 - 18. This is an ongoing program and students can sign up at any time.

Local Event: Teen Book Box - Autumn Edition

Teen Book Box - Autumn Edition

Reserve a festive Teen Book Box on our website by filling out our Book Box Form (https://forms.gle/dNmNkyuLsveAoEz2A) and our...

Essex Library Association will host pediatrician, allergist and social media star Zachary Rubin virtually for a discussion of “All About Allergies: Everything You Need to Know About Asthma, Food Allergies, Hay Fever, and More.” The book, “All About Allergies,” offers an in-depth look at both common and surprising allergies, spotlighting patient stories, the history and science behind allergies, common myths, treatment options, and more. This virtual program is free and open to the public. Registration is required for all virtual programs.
About Dr. Zachary Rubin Dr. Zachary Rubin&nbsp;is a double board-certified pediatrician and allergist/immunologist who practices at Oak Brook Allergists in the Chicago area. A nationally recognized medical educator and public health advocate, he shares evidence-based, accessible information on allergies, asthma, and public health with over four million followers under the handle @rubin_allergy.

Local Event: "All About Allergies" with Physician Zachary Rubin, an Author Talk (Virtual)

"All About Allergies" with Physician Zachary...

Essex Library Association will host pediatrician, allergist and social media star Zachary Rubin virtually for a discussion of...

"All About Allergies" with Physician Zachary Rubin, an Author Talk (Virtual)

Lace up your sneakers for the annual Ivoryton Pumpkin Chase featuring both a 5K run and a 2-mile walk. Benefitting the Ivoryton Library, this festive community event kicks off with check-in at 8:00 AM before the races begin at 9:00 AM! Wear your best costume and you could win a prize!

Local Event: Ivoryton Pumpkin Chase

Ivoryton Pumpkin Chase

Lace up your sneakers for the annual Ivoryton Pumpkin Chase featuring both a 5K run and a 2-mile walk. Benefitting the Ivoryton...

Jennings Beach

The Fairfield OCD CT Walk is part of the International OCD Foundation’s One Million Steps for OCD Walk series and is hosted by IOCDF Affiliate, OCD Connecticut.
Join us in Fairfield on Saturday, October 17, 2026, to make strides for OCD awareness! The Fairfield OCD Walk is a community engagement event that allows individuals to connect, share stories, create impact, and show those struggling on their road to recovery that they are not alone. It's a chance for us to raise funds and awareness of what it really means to have OCD.
Now is the time to make sure you, your friends, and your family are signed up for this amazing, community engagement event. Register for the Fairfield OCD Walk as an individual or by joining or creating a fundraising team.
As always, all registered walkers who raise $75 or more will receive a commemorative 2026 OCD Walk T-shirt!
Every dollar raised goes towards supporting those impacted by OCD and related disorders.
Schedule:
9:00am: Check-in, registration, T-shirt pick-up, activities 10:00am: Walk start 12:00pm: Event conclusion
Walk Route: 1-mile walk from Benson Place, turning onto Judson Road, then turning onto Beach Road and returning to Jennings Beach.

Local Event: OCD Connecticut Walk (Fairfield, CT)

OCD Connecticut Walk (Fairfield, CT)

The Fairfield OCD CT Walk is part of the International OCD Foundation’s One Million Steps for OCD Walk series and is hosted by...

Church of the Holy Advent

Experience a lively performance by the Hot Cat Jazz Band as part of the Glee Wahlquist Concert Series. This event features a reception and is open to the public with a goodwill offering.

Local Event: Hot Cat Jazz Band

Clinton

Hot Cat Jazz Band

Experience a lively performance by the Hot Cat Jazz Band as part of the Glee Wahlquist Concert Series. This event features a...

Chester Meeting House

A staple of the international music scene, Frank Vignola currently holds a weekly residency at the Birdland Jazz Club in New York City. His technique and genre-spanning repertoire have made him a collaborator for legendary artists across multiple genres, including Ringo Starr, Donald Fagen, Madonna, John Lewis, Lionel Hampton, Tommy Emmanuel, the Boston Pops, and guitar pioneer Les Paul.
Joining him is touring musician and educator Vinny Raniolo, whose rhythm accompaniment has brought him to stages such as Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House. Raniolo has featured on Public Television specials alongside Bucky Pizzarelli and Tommy Emmanuel, with screen credits including HBO's Boardwalk Empire and Woody Allen's Café Society.
Tickets are $35 in advance. Reserve seats at AcousticMusic.Org.The Art of the Guitar series will conclude on December 5 with a performance by Kaki King.&nbsp;

Local Event: Art of the Guitar: Frank Vignola with Vinny Raniolo

Art of the Guitar: Frank Vignola with Vinny...

A staple of the international music scene, Frank Vignola currently holds a weekly residency at the Birdland Jazz Club in New...

Art of the Guitar: Frank Vignola with Vinny Raniolo

Program for kids ages birth-3 and their caregivers. A play-based music and movement story time for young children and their caregivers!
At Essex Library, we are committed to providing high-quality story time experiences that foster early literacy, social-emotional growth, and a lifelong love of learning.
What to expect:
Each Wiggle Worms session begins with a welcome song where children (or caregivers) are invited to introduce themselves (or their little one), helping build confidence. We sing interactive songs that encourage vocabulary development and gross motor movement, then share a story together while modeling early literacy skills by pointing to words, turning pages, and engaging with the book. After the first book, we play and sing with interactive toys such as shakers, scarves, and rhythm sticks before we wrap up with one final story and a goodbye song.
After story time, families are encouraged to stay, play, and socialize in our Children's Room. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to make friends, caregivers to connect, and our library community to grow together.
This story time will take place every Tuesday morning. Due to space, Please choose 1 session per day to attend.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
No registration required.

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

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Birth - Age 3)

Program for kids ages birth-3 and their caregivers.  A play-based music and movement story time for young children and their...

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

Wiggle Worms Story Time (Birth - Age 3)  

Program for children ages birth – 2 and their caregivers.
Music is one of the earliest ways babies learn about the world! In Baby Band, caregivers and little ones will sing, dance, bounce, clap, and explore child-safe instruments in a playful, engaging environment. Along the way, babies strengthen early literacy, communication, motor, and social-emotional skills while caregivers discover fun ways to continue the music at home. No pressure to sit still, wiggles, giggles, and movement are all part of the fun!
What to Expect:
We’ll start by singing some familiar songs to get the party started. Then, we’ll explore rhythm with scarves, shakers, drums, or other child-safe instruments. Before we end, we’ll sing a goodbye song! After baby band, families are encouraged to stay, play, and socialize in our Children's Room. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to make friends, caregivers to connect, and our library community to grow together.
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=598118&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Baby Band (Birth - Age 2)

Baby Band (Birth - Age 2)

Program for children ages birth – 2 and their caregivers.
Music is one of the earliest ways babies learn about the world! In...

Do you have questions about Medicare coverage or are you enrolling in Medicare?&nbsp;Register for a one-hour session (3 p.m. or 4 p.m. or 5 p.m. time slots) with a CHOICES counselor at Essex Library Association. CHOICES (Connecticut's program for Health insurance assistance, Outreach, Information and referral, Counseling, and Eligibility Screening) helps Connecticut's older adults and persons with disabilities understand their Medicare coverage and healthcare options.&nbsp;This program is free and open to the public. Registration is required.&nbsp;

Local Event: CHOICES Medicare Counseling at Essex Library Association

CHOICES Medicare Counseling at Essex Library...

Do you have questions about Medicare coverage or are you enrolling in Medicare? Register for a one-hour session (3 p.m. or 4...

CHOICES Medicare Counseling at Essex Library Association

Want to reduce the waste you create?&nbsp;Join Karen Evans, environmental educator and member of Sustainable Essex, for a hands on workshop focusing on reducing, reusing, recycling, and rethinking!

Local Event: Become a Green Superhero!

Become a Green Superhero!

Want to reduce the waste you create? Join Karen Evans, environmental educator and member of Sustainable Essex, for a hands on...

In the so-called Gilded Age from the 1870s to the 1910s, New London and Groton became playgrounds of the wealthy. New London's Pequot Colony and Groton's Eastern Point attracted the wealthy and influential including U.S. presidents, celebrities, artists, Supreme Court justices and families such as the Plants and Harknesses. In turn, the region also benefited from the philanthropy of these people of power and privilege.&nbsp; Learn about the people and places of the Connecticut shoreline during this era of excess with Gail B. MacDonald. This program is free and open to the public at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT.&nbsp;
About Gail B. MacDonald Gail B. MacDonald is a veteran journalist, recently retired University of Connecticut journalism professor and author of three history books, one of which focused on the Gilded Age. She regularly leads historic-themed tours, including ones focused on the Gilded Age, for Uncovering New London - One Story At A Time, and previously was a docent for the Thames River Heritage Park. She is a New London resident.

Local Event: Glitz and Glamour: The Gilded Age in Southeastern Connecticut with Essex Library

Glitz and Glamour: The Gilded Age in...

In the so-called Gilded Age from the 1870s to the 1910s, New London and Groton became playgrounds of the wealthy. New London's...

Glitz and Glamour: The Gilded Age in Southeastern Connecticut with Essex Library

Program for kids ages 2-5.
We’re heading to the pumpkin patch for a story time full of fall fun!
Join us for themed stories, songs, rhymes, and crafts! We’ll learn early literacy concepts like colors, shapes, opposites, the ABCs and much more, to prepare our pre-school age children for kindergarten.
What to expect:
Each Little Learners session begins with a welcome song where each child is invited to dance and celebrate themselves. We sing interactive songs that encourage vocabulary development and gross motor movement, then read a story together. After the first book, we sing a few more songs and read another story. We conclude our time together with 3-4 craft and play centers that help children develop their early math, literacy, and motor skills.
After story time, families are encouraged to stay, play, and socialize in our Children's Room. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to make friends, caregivers to connect, and our library community to grow together.
Essex Library programs are free and open to the public.
Registration is requested to ensure enough crafts are prepared.<a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsRegister.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;BranchID=1000003139&amp;Branch=Essex%20Library%20Association%20&amp;EventID=598119&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Little Learners Story Time: Pumpkin Patch Party! (Ages 2-5)

Little Learners Story Time: Pumpkin Patch...

Program for kids ages 2-5.
We’re heading to the pumpkin patch for a story time full of fall fun!
Join us for themed stories,...

Little Learners Story Time: Pumpkin Patch Party! (Ages 2-5)

Program for tweens ages 8-12.
Celebrate National Noodle Day at the library by trying different ramen noodle cup flavors from around the world, and right here at home! We’ll start by learning about Momofuku Ando, the founder of Nissin Food Products (one of the most popular ramen brands), test different cups of noodles, vote on our favorites, and crown the ultimate noodle champion!
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=598120&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Tween Time: Ramen Noodle Taste Test (Ages 8-12)

Tween Time: Ramen Noodle Taste Test (Ages 8-12)

Program for tweens ages 8-12.
Celebrate National Noodle Day at the library by trying different ramen noodle cup flavors from...

Kids, teens, and families are invited to join the Ivoryton Library in celebrating National Book Month with bedazzling books! We will decorate book covers to be uniquely ours, and enjoy all things books!

Local Event: Book Decorating (for National Book Month)

Book Decorating (for National Book Month)

Kids, teens, and families are invited to join the Ivoryton Library in celebrating National Book Month with bedazzling books! We...

Down the Lane Farm will host Farm Day on October 24 from 10 AM to 4 PM, welcoming the community for a fun fall day on the farm with activities, local products, and expert gardening guidance.
Guests will have the unique opportunity to learn about honey bees, taste local honey and jams, shop homegrown herbs, spices and baked goods, and sign up for classes on how to prepare and use these products. Our friends from Running Brook Farms on Route 81 in Killingworth will also be on site to share expert tips on pollinator-friendly plants, including what to grow and when to plant for a thriving garden.
Farm Day is designed as a welcoming seasonal outing for families, friends, gardeners, honey enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy the sights, tastes, and traditions of fall on the farm.
Event Details: Farm Day will take place October 24 from 10 AM to 4 PM at Down the Lane Farm, 18 Reservoir Road, Killingworth. Attendees are encouraged to bring a friend and spend the day exploring, learning, shopping local, and celebrating the season.Free Event, Free Parking. No restrooms.For more information and updates, please email <a href="mailto:Maureen@Downthelanefarm.com">Maureen@Downthelanefarm.com</a> or call 203-619-3976.Check us out of Facebook.

Local Event: Farm Day at Down the Lane Farm

The Haddams-Killingworth

Farm Day at Down the Lane Farm

Down the Lane Farm will host Farm Day on October 24 from 10 AM to 4 PM, welcoming the community for a fun fall day on the farm...

Rich Kirby

Hartford Metropolitan Area

New Haven County

Alfred Branch

Madison

New London County

The Lymes

Richard Kaufman

Guilford

Durham-Middlefield

North Branford

East Hampton-Portland

Chris Dehnel

Middletown

Ellyn Santiago

Branford

Connecticut’s only nonprofit, fully integrated senior care

Masonicare

Headquartered in Connecticut and founded in 1898, Masonicare is the state’s only not-for-profit, fully integrated senior care continuum, guided by a longstanding, mission-driven commitment to enhancing quality of life for older adults. Masonicare offers vibrant residential communities and a comprehensive range of health and wellness services designed to promote independence, longevity, and purposeful living. Its statewide continuum includes independent living, assisted living services, skilled nursing, medical and non-medical home health, hospice, adaptive memory care, acute inpatient and outpatient senior behavioral health, outpatient rehabilitation, and audiology services, redefining how aging is experienced by advancing proactive wellness, integrated care, and meaningful connection at every stage of life.

Vincent Salzo

Wallingford

Headquartered in Connecticut and founded in 1898, Masonicare is the state’s only not-for-profit, fully integrated senior care continuum, guided by...

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...

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

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Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending

Wednesday, October 14

Thursday, October 15

Saturday, October 17

Tuesday, October 20

Wednesday, October 21

Thursday, October 22

Friday, October 23

Saturday, October 24

Masonicare

Kaleidoscope LLC