Name: 41st Annual James "Dutch" Fogarty Independence Day Celebration
Start: 2026-07-11T16:00:00-04:00
Location: CT State Community College Manchester

CT State Community College Manchester

James "Dutch" Fogarty Independence Day Celebration.  Live music (FEEDBACK BAND - 4:30-6:30 ---  NIGHTSHIFT BAND 7:00 - 9:15), Kids Zone Activities (free face-painting, magicians, jugglers, balloon artists, stilt walkers), Food Trucks, Market Place, Fireworks @ 9:30!  Free! Family! Fun!

Local Event: 41st Annual James "Dutch" Fogarty Independence Day Celebration 

Hartford County

Chris Dehnel

Hartford Metropolitan Area

Manchester

Connecticut

41st Annual James "Dutch" Fogarty Independence...

James "Dutch" Fogarty Independence Day Celebration.  Live music (FEEDBACK BAND - 4:30-6:30 ---  NIGHTSHIFT BAND 7:00 - 9:15),...

41st Annual James "Dutch" Fogarty Independence Day Celebration 

Connecticut's Old State House

Discovering Amistad and Connecticut’s Old State House invite you to join us in celebrating the life and legacy of an “unsung” American hero – James Mars. Through his own words from his published memoir, and the lived accounts of his descendants, come explore and elevate the narrative of a man who defined the struggle for true liberty. Born in 1790, James Mars lived the paradox of American freedom – sold as a slave in a state that claimed to be “The Land of Steady Habits.”
Keynote address by James Mars Descendent Rev. Dr. Shelley D. Best, founder of Creative Disruptor® and the author of Creative Disruption: How Artists and Innovators Build Influence, Drive Change, and Shape the Future. A Yale Divinity School–trained minister, visual artist, and social innovator, she is known for her groundbreaking work at the intersection of narrative, creativity, and leadership.
The event will include special performances by Nia Arts, storyteller Andre Keitt, and gospel singers The Walkers.
Suggested donation $10. Register here: info@discoveringamistad.org.
PARKING Parking at State House Square Parking Garage, located at 75 Market Street, costs a maximum of $10 with validation from Connecticut’s Old State House. Metered street parking is available. Free on-street parking is available after6 pm and on weekends. Please follow posted parking instructions.
Our Doors Are Open: Connecticut’s Old State House is mobility friendly with a ramp on the West side entrance and elevator access to all floors. Our bathrooms are on the ground floor and have changing tables. If you wish to inquire about special accommodations for a tour or special event, please call (860) 860-240-5340.<a href="https://eventvesta.com/events/143062/t/tickets" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">View Tickets &amp; More Info</a>

Local Event: In His Footsteps: A Celebration of the Life and Legacy of James Mars

In His Footsteps: A Celebration of the Life and...

Discovering Amistad and Connecticut’s Old State House invite you to join us in celebrating the life and legacy of an “unsung”...

In His Footsteps: A Celebration of the Life and Legacy of James Mars

Little Theatre of Manchester at Cheney Hall

In collaboration with Connecticut Deaf Theatre
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS
An American Sign Language-Infused Production
May 1, 2026, at 7:30 PM 
May 2, 2026, at 7:30 PM 
May 3, 2026, at 2:00 PM 
 
General Admission Seating: $24 
$2 Discount for Seniors, Students, or Military 
Additional Discounts for Groups of 10 or More!<a href="https://ltm.squarespace.com/little-shop-of-horrors-asl" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Get Tickets Here!</a>
FEED ME, SEYMOUR!
Riding high on the excitement of our 2025 ASL-infused hit, "The Rocky Horror Show," the Little Theatre of Manchester and <a href="https://www.conndeaftheatre.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Connecticut Deaf Theatre</a> are together again to serve up a fully accessible, ASL-infused production of the deviously delicious "LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS."
Step into the shoes of gentle Seymour Krelborn, a hapless flower shop assistant whose luck changes when he stumbles upon a peculiar plant with a taste for blood. Dubbed "Audrey II" after his secret crush, this rapidly growing botanical oddity tempts Seymour with dreams of stardom...as long as he keeps feeding its insatiable appetite.
From the infectious rhythms of the doo-wop street chorus to the escapades of a sinister dentist, this botanical thriller bursts onto the stage in a dazzling fusion of English and American Sign Language. This cult classic sci-fi musical promises even more color, energy, and accessibility for all.
What does "ASL-infused" mean?
Everything will be signed and voiced onstage together — there's not only sign language onstage nor is it just the voiced actors onstage with interpreters supporting them. 
 
The signing will occur onstage with the actors. This is different from a "shadow cast" where the voice is primary and the ASL interpreter follows the action onstage interpreting for the voice. This show contains full accessibility onstage at all times. 
I'm Deaf - will I be able to fully understand the show?
Yes! This show is all about inclusivity and our co-directing team have worked together to ensure full access at all times for our Deaf and hard of hearing audience members. 
I'm hearing - will I be able to fully understand the show?
Yes! Everything is sung/spoken in English as well as signed. This is a unique experience that EVERYONE can appreciate and learn from. 
Is there assigned seating for accessibility?
No, we've made an effort to make sure all seats are accessible; however, if you do not need visual proximity in order to understand the show, we ask that you do not sit in the first few rows to allow for others that may.

Local Event: ASL Infused Little Shop of Horrors

ASL Infused Little Shop of Horrors

In collaboration with Connecticut Deaf Theatre
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS
An American Sign Language-Infused Production
May 1, 2026,...

Let your child take center stage at Cheney Hall with an exciting lineup of workshops and theatrical opportunities for young performers! Whether your student is just beginning their journey in the spotlight or looking to refine their professional technique, our Rising Stars program offers a supportive, high-energy environment for growth.
This season, we are diving into the magic of Broadway with specialized intensives and preparing for our major summer production of ANASTASIA (Youth Edition). From the emerald heights of Oz to the historical mystery of the Russian Empire, there is a place for every young artist to shine.
<ul>
 <li>The Journey to Anastasia: Prepare for our upcoming summer production with our Audition Workshop on Saturday, May 2nd , 2026. This workshop is designed to help performers master the official vocal selections and choreography so they can walk into their auditions feeling fully prepared and confident.</li>
 <ul>
 <li><a href="https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?class_id=ltman~150324" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Ages 7–11</a>: 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM</li>
 <li><a href="https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?class_id=ltman~150325" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Ages 12–16</a>:&nbsp;11:00 AM - 12:30 PM.</li>
 </ul>
</ul>
All one-day workshops are just $20. Space is limited, so secure your spot today and let your talent soar!
SUMMER PROGRAM
<ul>
 <li>Summer Program: Join us from August 10–21 for an intensive rehearsal period culminating in two grand performances of ANASTASIA (Youth Edition) on August 22. (Auditions required; registration coming soon.)</li>
</ul>

Local Event: ANASTASIA: Youth Audition Workshop

ANASTASIA: Youth Audition Workshop

Let your child take center stage at Cheney Hall with an exciting lineup of workshops and theatrical opportunities for young...

Central Connecticut State University

Parking at Welte Garage or outside the Student Center
Over 400 middle and high school Connecticut students representing an estimated 69 schools are competing on May 2 for the chance to represent their State at the National History Day Contest, being held in June at the University of Maryland. The State Contest is a culmination of months of hard work by students as they conducted historical research, analyzed their sources and created projects. Students participating in the State Contest include the winners from five regional contests held earlier this spring.
Students participate in a variety of ways: in classroom instruction, after-school clubs, as part of an enrichment program, or as an independent project. Students have spent months working on projects of their own choosing related to this year’s theme of Revolution, Reaction, and Reform in History. Students can explore any type of history, from local to international. Working alone or ingroups, students present projects in one of five categories – exhibits, documentaries, websites, papers, or performances.
The top two prize winners in each category will earn coveted spots to the National History Day competition, which will be held in Maryland in June. Third place finishers serve as alternates to the National Contest. Additionally, twenty Special Prizes related to specific topic content such as World History, Connecticut History, Social Justice, Jewish History, American Legal History and American Colonial History, will be awarded. These prizes are sponsored by local organizations.<a href="https://eventvesta.com/events/143065/t/tickets" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">View Tickets &amp; More Info</a>

Local Event: Connecticut History Day State Contest

Connecticut History Day State Contest

Parking at Welte Garage or outside the Student Center
Over 400 middle and high school Connecticut students representing an...

Unitarian Universalist Society East

Celebrate the arrival of Spring with good company, food ,and music on the UUSE grounds Saturday, May 2, 2026, 10 AM to 2 PM rain or shine (Rain will move all activities indoors and cancel the Bike Rodeo.)
Free!
Beltane Ritual at 11 AM— Beltane honors spring's peak, fertility, and the return of light through fire, flowers, and nature-focused rituals. It is a time for planting, celebrating love, and honoring the earth.
Reggaeton Music at 1 PM—This interactive demo will introduce you to Reggaeton, a high-energy dance music genre that originated in Panama and Puerto Rico, merging Caribbean reggae with American hip-hop. It is defined by the "dembow" riddim — a steady, syncopated 4-on-the-floor beat. Be ready to make music and dance.
Bike Rodeo— Bring your bike and helmet
Children’s Activities— Crafts and active fun
Tag Sale—Congregation-wide tag sale
Bake Sale— Loads of homemade goodies
Plant Sale— Plants for your garden just in time for planting and houseplants
Food Truck— For a snack or full meal
Unitarian Universalist Society East, 153 Vernon St. West, Manchester, CT

Local Event: Mayfair

Mayfair

Celebrate the arrival of Spring with good company, food ,and music on the UUSE grounds Saturday, May 2, 2026, 10 AM to 2 PM...

Welles-Shipman-Ward House

Step back into 1776 with the Lebanon Militia and the people of Glassenbury for a day of historical reenactments, musketry drills, and colonial games. This family-friendly event features a colonial chocolate maker, music, woodworkers, and tours of the historic house and barns for just $10 for those over 10 years old.Event runs from Noon to 4 PM

Local Event: Revolutionary Day

Glastonbury

Revolutionary Day

Step back into 1776 with the Lebanon Militia and the people of Glassenbury for a day of historical reenactments, musketry...

Ryan Ford, double bassist, will perform classical and modern music at 3 PM Sunday, May 3, at Unitarian Universalist Society East, 153 Vernon St. West, Manchester CT. Ford will perform with his daughter Margeaux and accompanist Lan-Ya Huang. Suggested donation (to benefit UUSE): $20. No one will be turned away.


<a href="https://www.ryanfordbass.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">http://www.ryanfordbass.com/</a>

Local Event: Ryan Ford Double Bass Concert

Ryan Ford Double Bass Concert

Ryan Ford, double bassist, will perform classical and modern music at 3 PM Sunday, May 3, at Unitarian Universalist Society...

Jay Kenney

South Windsor

Tolland County

Vernon

Michael Lemanski

Greater Hartford

Wethersfield

Windsor Locks-East Windsor

Windsor

Rocky Hill

Tolland

West Hartford

PREVIEW&nbsp;TODAY&nbsp;the $25,000 Worth of *New* Goods &amp;&nbsp;Services Up for BID on our website - New Items still being added daily!

<a href="https://onecau.se/stjoseph-auction2026" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">onecau.se/stjoseph-auction2026</a>The St Joseph Church Men’s Club is holding a Goods &amp; Services auction in the church hall at 5pm on May 16, 2026, to raise funds for the expansion of our religious education program.
Bid Remotely or In-Person starting May 9th
·Purchase an In-Person Ticket.&nbsp;&nbsp;In Person Tickets include Food and are limited! Tickets can be purchased directly on our event site, at the church office, or after weekend Masses.
·Purchase a Remote Ticket – If you, friends, or family would like to participate in the auction remotely but will not be able to attend. Items purchased remotely can be picked up after the event in our Church Office.


If you have any questions about this event, or about making a donation or volunteering to help with the event, please feel free to contact Steve Caruso our event chairman at 860-478-4087, or via email at <a href="mailto:scaruso1@expressmedals.com">scaruso1@expressmedals.com</a>
Thank you in advance for your kind and generous support. 
St Joseph Church Men’s Club

Local Event: St Joseph's Church Goods & Services Auction

St Joseph's Church Goods & Services Auction

PREVIEW TODAY the $25,000 Worth of *New* Goods & Services Up for BID on our website - New Items still being added...

Talaga Construction - Building the Future, Brick by Brick

Talaga Construction

More than just construction Discover the legacy of Talaga Construction. With over 50 years of experience, Butch has established a rock-solid reputation in masonry. Learn more about our commitment to quality and dependable service for homeowners and businesses in Manchester, Connecticut, and beyond. A foundation built on experience At Talaga Construction, our foundation is built on decades of hands-on experience. Butch's expertise in masonry is the cornerstone of our commitment to delivering exceptional results. We serve both homeowners and businesses, providing reliable and high-quality construction services. Our promise to you When you choose Talaga Construction, you're choosing a partner you can count on. We approach every project, whether it's masonry or concrete, with unwavering dedication to quality and reliability. Your satisfaction is our top priority. We serve both homeowners and businesses in Manchester and the surrounding areas. Specializing in masonry and concrete Talaga Construction specializes in masonry and concrete projects, ensuring structural integrity and lasting beauty. From intricate brickwork to durable concrete foundations, we bring expertise and precision to every job. Explore our portfolio to see examples of our quality craftsmanship.

More than just construction Discover the legacy of Talaga Construction. With over 50 years of experience, Butch has established a rock-solid...

Dustless sanding and refinishing service for hardwood floors

Dustless Hardwood Floors LLC

Dustless Hardwood Floors LLC has proudly served the state of Connecticut since 2006, establishing a reputation as a premier provider of licensed and insured hardwood flooring services. Our specialty lies in advanced dustless sanding and refinishing techniques, utilizing state-of-the-art dust-containment systems that not only minimize airborne particles but also create healthier and cleaner environments, particularly beneficial for clients with allergies or asthma. We are committed to adhering to the rigorous standards set forth by the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA), ensuring that all our practices meet industry benchmarks for quality and safety. Our comprehensive range of services includes expert installation, precise sanding, vibrant staining, meticulous repair, and thorough restoration of hardwood floors, tailored to meet the needs of both residential and commercial clients alike. To foster transparency and trust, we offer complimentary in-home estimates, ensuring that each client is fully informed about the project scope, timeline, and costs involved. Our commitment to client satisfaction is reflected in the transparent and straightforward process we maintain throughout each project. With a solid presence on the Better Business Bureau, bolstered by an outstanding reputation and consistently positive customer feedback, Dustless Hardwood Floors LLC stands out as a reliable partner for all your professional hardwood flooring needs. We take pride in our attention to detail, dedication to quality craftsmanship, and responsive customer service that consistently exceeds expectations.

Dustless Hardwood Floors LLC has proudly served the state of Connecticut since 2006, establishing a reputation as a premier provider of licensed...

Book your Cooking Classes at thehiddenkitchenct.com

The Hidden Kitchen

After years for cooking in fine dining restaurants, award winning chefs - Tom Kaldy and Joe Keane - decided to open a little shop of their own. Seeking to provide customers with the high quality items they've been cooking for years but in a much more approachable, comfortable manner, and in a takeout box! . The Hidden Kitchen is a seasonally focused takeout joint operated by real chefs, preparing the best with the best. The Hidden Kitchen also hosts cooking classes weekly and operates as a full-service catering company.

After years for cooking in fine dining restaurants, award winning chefs - Tom Kaldy and Joe Keane - decided to open a little shop of their own....

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State Edition

National Edition

Manchester|Local Event

41st Annual James "Dutch" Fogarty Independence Day Celebration

Event Details

More Upcoming Events

In His Footsteps: A Celebration of the Life and Legacy of James Mars

MAY

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Connecticut's Old State House, 800 Main St, Hartford, CT

ASL Infused Little Shop of Horrors

MAY

1

7:30 PM

Little Theatre of Manchester at Cheney Hall, 177 Hartford Rd, Manchester, CT

ANASTASIA: Youth Audition Workshop

MAY

2

9:00 AM

Little Theatre of Manchester at Cheney Hall, 177 Hartford Rd, Manchester, CT

Connecticut History Day State Contest

MAY

2

9:00 AM

Central Connecticut State University, 1615 Stanley St, New Britain, CT

Mayfair

MAY

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Unitarian Universalist Society East, 153 W Vernon St, Manchester, CT

Revolutionary Day

MAY

3

12:00 PM

Welles-Shipman-Ward House, 972 Main St, Glastonbury, CT

Ryan Ford Double Bass Concert

MAY

3

3:00 PM

Unitarian Universalist Society East, 153 W Vernon St, Manchester, CT

Revolutionary Day

St Joseph's Church Goods & Services Auction

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The Hidden Kitchen