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 (1 of 3)

Middlesex County

Essex-Chester-Deep River

Connecticut

Yoga with Hannah (1 of 3)

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

&nbsp; A time to relax and awaken your creative side. You will make a colorful exterior art keepsake. Mosaic techniques will be explored using glass, tile, porcelain, and gems. $50. includes all supplies. Time: 11:00 - 1:00. At Lovers Lane Farm, Killingworth, CT 06419. To reserve your place, RSVP at www.loverslanefarmct.com

Local Event: Make Your Own Mosaic Garden Stone

Killingworth

Make Your Own Mosaic Garden Stone

  A time to relax and awaken your creative side. You will make a colorful exterior art keepsake. Mosaic techniques will be...

Essex Library Association

Program for kids ages 8-12.
The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Each week, join us for a hands-on workshop where we’ll explore a different hobby, skill, or craft.
This session is an introduction to embroidery string bracelet making! Join Miss Nicole for a fun and creative afternoon of crafting &amp; chatting while learning how to make colorful embroidery floss bracelets.
Participants will learn simple knotting techniques and create two classic friendship bracelet patterns: the Candy Stripe and the Chevron. Whether you're a beginner or have made bracelets before, this hands-on workshop is a great way to learn a new skill and express your creativity.
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=592124&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Click here to register.</a>

Local Event: Plant the Seed Learning Series: Intro to String Bracelet Making (Ages 8-12)

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Intro to String...

Program for kids ages 8-12.
The Summer Reading theme this year is “Plant a Seed, Read!” Each week, join us for a hands-on...

Plant the Seed Learning Series: Intro to String Bracelet Making (Ages 8-12)

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) 

Register <a href="https://libraryc.org/essexlib/176875/register" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">HERE</a> or call the library at 860-767-1560. Registration is required for all virtual author talks presented by Essex Library.Join us for a thrilling evening with acclaimed author Karin Slaughter as we chat about her North Falls series, consisting of&nbsp;We Are All Guilty Here, in which two teenage girls vanish in rural Georgia, and her upcoming sequel,&nbsp;The Secrets We Hide.&nbsp;
In&nbsp;The Secrets We Hide, Slaughter welcomes readers back to North Falls. A small town with big secrets…
1601 Iris Drive looks like any other house on the quiet, residential street. But rumors are rampant about the Vickery family, and what goes on behind closed doors.
When gunshots ring out, Sheriff Emmy Clifton and her sister, ex-federal agent Jude Archer, discover a devastating crime scene. Allison Vickery has been murdered in her own kitchen, and her teenage daughter is bleeding upstairs, left for dead.
Everyone thinks they know what happened. But secrets are buried everywhere in this small town.
And it’s up to Emmy Clifton to uncover the truth…
Register now to take part in the discussion, and for an exclusive sneak peek of&nbsp;The Secrets We Hide, coming out August 11, 2026!
About the Author: Karin Slaughter is one of the world’s most popular storytellers. She is the #1&nbsp;New York Times&nbsp;bestselling author of more than twenty-five novels, including the Edgar nominated Cop Town and standalone novels&nbsp;Pretty Girls&nbsp;and&nbsp;False Witness. An international bestseller, Slaughter is published in 120 countries with more than 40 million copies sold across the globe.&nbsp;Pieces of Her, based on her novel, debuted at #1 worldwide on Netflix as an original series in 2022. Her bestselling thriller series,&nbsp;Will Trent, is now a television and streaming sensation in its 4th season.&nbsp;The Good Daughter&nbsp;has been adapted into a limited series starring Rose Byrne and Meghann Fahy, and further projects are currently in development for film/TV.&nbsp; Karin Slaughter is the founder of the Save the Libraries project—a nonprofit organization established to support libraries and library programming. A native of Georgia, she lives in Atlanta.

Local Event: Small Towns and Big Secrets with Karin Slaughter (Virtual Author Talk)

Small Towns and Big Secrets with Karin...

Register HERE or call the library at 860-767-1560. Registration is required for all virtual author talks presented by Essex...

Small Towns and Big Secrets with Karin Slaughter (Virtual Author Talk)

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...

Chester Meeting House

Join us at the Chester Meeting House for a family-friendly magic show with Jeff Horton!
For over 20 years, Jeff has brought magic, mystery, and comedy to the young and young at heart!
All are welcome. Registration is required.
This is a joint program between Chester &amp; Deep River Public Libraries.Link to registers:&nbsp; <a href="https://deepriverlibrary.libcal.com/event/16609688" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">deepriverlibrary.libcal.com/event/16609688</a>

Local Event: The Magic of Jeff Horton @ Chester Meeting House

The Magic of Jeff Horton @ Chester Meeting House

Join us at the Chester Meeting House for a family-friendly magic show with Jeff Horton!
For over 20 years, Jeff has brought...

Join us at Essex Library for a basket twining class, led by Brenda Vynalek, a local artist and teacher. Register <a href="https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsExtended.cfm?SiteID=1314&amp;EventID=588734&amp;PK=" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">HERE</a> or call the library at 860-767-1560.
Twining is one of the oldest basket making techniques, historically used to create tightly woven vessels for food storage and carrying water. In this session, participants will create a modern rope-twined basket in red, white, and blue. These baskets are perfect for holding napkins at a 250th America Celebration, decorating a porch, or serving as a plant holder.
During the class, participants will see examples of the twining technique using various materials. This method is an excellent introduction to basket making, and participants will quickly feel inspired to experiment with new colors and textures.
This program is free and open to the public at Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT. Space is limited. Registration is required.
About Brenda Vynalek
Brenda Vynalek is a local artist and teacher dedicated to preserving traditional techniques like broom making, basketry, and weaving. Her goal is to guide students from initial doubt to the pride of creating something beautiful and functional for the modern home.

Local Event: 250th Basket Twining Class, presented by Essex Library

250th Basket Twining Class, presented by Essex...

Join us at Essex Library for a basket twining class, led by Brenda Vynalek, a local artist and teacher. Register HERE or call...

250th Basket Twining Class, presented by Essex Library

Kaleidoscope

Coral Bowl ~ Thank Glass Thursdays July 16nd 10am-12pm - Fused Glass Classes
 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 coral bowl. 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: Coral Bowl ~ Thank Glass Thursdays July 16nd 10am-12pm - Fused Glass Classes

Coral Bowl ~ Thank Glass Thursdays July 16nd...

Coral Bowl ~ Thank Glass Thursdays July 16nd 10am-12pm - Fused Glass Classes
 Join local glass artist Carrie Yenovich for a...

Coral Bowl ~ Thank Glass Thursdays July 16nd 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...

Deep River Public Library

Join us for a presentation about axolotls! Learn about their history, how to care for them, and cool facts that make them so amazing! Participants will get a chance to see a live axolotl from the Amphibian and Reptile Center.
This program is recommended for children ages 5+, tweens/teens and adults. Registration is required.Link to register: <a href="https://deepriverlibrary.libcal.com/event/16616927" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">deepriverlibrary.libcal.com/event/16616927</a>

Local Event: All About Axolotls

All About Axolotls

Join us for a presentation about axolotls! Learn about their history, how to care for them, and cool facts that make them so...

Register <a href="https://libraryc.org/essexlib/177522/register" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">HERE</a> or call the library at 860-767-1560.In her ambitious new memoir,&nbsp;Migrant Heart: Essays About Things I Can’t Forget, beloved bestselling author Reyna Grande illuminates the hidden cost of the American Dream and the complex journey of healing that follows survival.
What is the true power of stories? Can they heal the jagged edges of a traumatic childhood? Is the cost of telling the story worth the price of the cure?
With her signature blend of sophistication and raw honesty, Grande interrogates how living between two nations, two languages, and two identities has shaped the woman, mother, and writer she has become. Moving from the legacy of violence in her hometown of Iguala, Mexico, to a bittersweet family vacation in Europe spent reconciling her own impoverished past with her children’s world of abundance, she uncovers startling truths about the nature of survival.
Whether being racially profiled in the Arizona borderlands or finding unexpected wisdom from the slugs in her garden, Grande unflinchingly asks: How do we bridge the gap between who we were and who we have become? How do we turn pain into power? When memory threatens to define us, how can we use story to heal while still honoring our boundaries?
Register today for this virtual talk if you identify as a seeker, a dreamer, or “anyone who believes in the enduring, transformative power of finding one’s voice.”
About the Author: Reyna Grande is an award-winning author, motivational speaker, and writing teacher. As a young girl, she crossed the US–Mexico border to join her family in Los Angeles, a harrowing journey chronicled in&nbsp;The Distance Between Us, a National Book Critics Circle Award finalist. Her other books include the novels&nbsp;A Ballad of Love and Glory,&nbsp;Across a Hundred Mountains, and&nbsp;Dancing with Butterflies, the memoirs&nbsp;Migrant Heart,&nbsp;The Distance Between Us: Young Readers&nbsp;Edition, and&nbsp;A Dream Called Home, and&nbsp;the anthology&nbsp;Somewhere We Are Human: Authentic Voices on Migration,&nbsp;Survival, and New Beginnings. She lives in Woodland, California, with her husband and two children. Visit ReynaGrande.com for more information.

Local Event: The Hidden Cost of the American Dream and Healing Through Storytelling with Reyna Grande (Virtual Au

The Hidden Cost of the American Dream and...

Register HERE or call the library at 860-767-1560.In her ambitious new memoir, Migrant Heart: Essays About Things I Can’t...

The Hidden Cost of the American Dream and Healing Through Storytelling with Reyna Grande (Virtual Au

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+)

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...

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

Local Event: Yoga with Hannah (2 of 3)

Yoga with Hannah (2 of 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)

Hartford Metropolitan Area

Clinton

The Haddams-Killingworth

New Haven County

Alfred Branch

Madison

New London County

The Lymes

Richard Kaufman

Guilford

Durham-Middlefield

North Branford

East Hampton-Portland

Chris Dehnel

Middletown

Ellyn Santiago

Branford

A professional artist's glass studio for creative expression

RiverFire Glass LLC

RiverFire Glass is a working kiln glass studio, gallery and teaching space where creativity, craftsmanship and community come together. Located in the heart of Deep River, Connecticut, RiverFire Glass specializes in kiln-formed glass art, handcrafted gifts and hands-on glass fusing experiences for beginners and experienced artists alike. Whether you're creating your first fused glass ornament or designing an intricate glass garden panel, you'll find a welcoming environment where exploration and creativity are encouraged. What makes RiverFire Glass unique is the combination of professional artistic expertise and genuine personal connection. Owner and artist Jeni GrayRoberts has taught more than 2,000 students and brings years of experience in glass, design and creative education to every class. Students are guided through the fascinating process of transforming colorful sheets of glass into beautiful finished pieces through cutting, layering and kiln firing. Unlike paint-and-sip style experiences that focus on reproducing a predetermined project, RiverFire Glass encourages individual expression. Many classes offer a wide range of project choices, design options and creative freedom, allowing each student to create something uniquely their own. Visitors can browse a gallery filled with original kiln glass artwork, functional home décor, jewelry and seasonal gifts, many inspired by nature, water and the beauty of the Connecticut River Valley. Sustainability and thoughtful craftsmanship are woven into the studio's philosophy, with an emphasis on minimizing waste and creating lasting pieces that bring joy for years to come. Whether you're looking for a memorable experience, a unique handmade gift or a chance to discover your creative side, RiverFire Glass offers an inspiring destination where art, learning and community meet.

RiverFire Glass is a working kiln glass studio, gallery and teaching space where creativity, craftsmanship and community come together. Located in...

Connecticut’s only nonprofit, fully integrated senior care

Masonicare

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

Vincent Salzo

Wallingford

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

Custom Storage Solutions for the Whole Home

California Closets

From walk-in closets and Murphy beds to kitchen pantries, entertainment centers, and home offices, our professional closet designers are experts in the art of home organization. California Closets is distinguished by a legacy of innovation, organizational expertise, quality craftsmanship, and design authority. Our teams of professional design consultants and installers are dedicated to providing an exceptional experience throughout the entire process of creating and installing organizational systems for the whole home. Serving Fairfield, New Haven, Middlesex and New London counties. We are excited to share that our Greenwich showroom is now open. This vibrant space merges creativity and innovation, showcasing a carefully curated environment that emphasizes our latest products and offers an immersive experience for our customers.

Fairfield County

Hayleigh Evans

Monroe

From walk-in closets and Murphy beds to kitchen pantries, entertainment centers, and home offices, our professional closet designers are experts in...

Kaleidoscope Strategic Arts Collective in Downtown Chester

Kaleidoscope LLC

Kaleidoscope stands as Connecticut's premier art gallery and curated gift shop, dedicated to showcasing the extraordinary talents of regional artists and artisans. Strategically located in the historic downtown Chester, Connecticut, our gallery serves as a cultural cornerstone for art enthusiasts, collectors, and visitors seeking authentic, handcrafted treasures. Unparalleled Artisan Collection Our carefully curated collection features works from over 60 distinguished Connecticut artists and authors, representing the finest in regional creativity and craftsmanship. Kaleidoscope offers an ever-evolving selection of quality paintings, hand-thrown ceramics, artisan glasswork, textile arts, fine woodworking, designer jewelry, and locally-authored literature. Each piece tells a story, reflecting the rich artistic heritage and innovative spirit that defines Connecticut's creative community. Dynamic Cultural Programming Beyond our gallery walls, Kaleidoscope functions as a vibrant community hub, hosting signature events including exclusive book signings with local authors, live artist demonstrations, hands-on creative workshops, and engaging community gatherings. Our programming calendar ensures continuous opportunities for artistic discovery, skill development, and cultural enrichment. Integrated Culinary Experience Complementing your artistic journey, KaraBella's Kitchen—our in-house restaurant—provides a sophisticated dining experience, allowing guests to savor exceptional cuisine while surrounded by inspiring artwork. This unique integration of culinary and visual arts creates an immersive destination experience unmatched in the region. Visit &amp; Engage We invite art collectors, gift seekers, and culture enthusiasts to experience Kaleidoscope firsthand. Visit our downtown Chester location to explore our rotating exhibitions and discover one-of-a-kind pieces. For information about upcoming workshops, classes, and events visit our website or stop by our gallery.

Kaleidoscope stands as Connecticut's premier art gallery and curated gift shop, dedicated to showcasing the extraordinary talents of regional...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

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

Tuesday, July 14

Make Your Own Mosaic Garden Stone

JUL

14

11:00 AM

42 Lovers Ln, Killingworth, CT

Also around town...

Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending

Monday, July 13

Tuesday, July 14

Wednesday, July 15

Thursday, July 16

Friday, July 17

Saturday, July 18

Monday, July 20

Tuesday, July 21

Make Your Own Mosaic Garden Stone

RiverFire Glass LLC

Masonicare

California Closets

Kaleidoscope LLC