Name: First Play Game Day - game design showcase
Start: 2026-08-08T12:00:00-04:00
Location: Back Again Board Game Cafe LLC

Back Again Board Game Cafe LLC

Join local game designers as they present brand-new prototype board and card games. Play, provide feedback, and help shape the games of tomorrow!
Saturday, August 8, 2026 Noon to 10:00 pm
Come for an hour or stay all day! Drop in anytime between noon and 10pm.
Play Games Before They're published! Be the first to try exciting new games in a variety of genres: family-friendly, short, long, silly, strategic, and more!
Your Feedback Matters! Playtesters help designers by sharing honest opinions and experiences. No special experience needed - just a love of games and a desire to help!
Raffles &amp; Giveaways! We'll be raffling off over a dozen brand-new games to playtesters from companies like Blue Orange, Capstone, and GameNerdz (thank you sponsors!).
All Day Game Pass of $10 Includes access to First Play Game Day AND the cafe's massive library of games! A wide selection of beverages &amp; snacks are also available for purchase. 
All Ages Welcome! New to playtesting? Perfect! Everyone's input is valuable.
Preregister for Extra Raffle Tickets! Visit <a href="https://ctvisit.com/events/rb.gy/aq0gz7" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">rb.gy/aq0gz7</a> to preregister or <a href="https://discord.gg/yQ9mEMeJNQ" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://discord.gg/yQ9mEMeJNQ</a> to learn more.
Back Again Board Game Cafe 484 Main Street #11, Middletown, CT backagaincafe.com
<h3>Admission</h3>
All Day Game Pass of $10 Includes access to First Play Game Day AND the cafe's massive library of games! A wide selection of beverages &amp; snacks are also available for purchase.

Local Event: First Play Game Day - game design showcase

Middlesex County

Chris Dehnel

Hartford Metropolitan Area

Middletown

Connecticut

First Play Game Day - game design showcase

Join local game designers as they present brand-new prototype board and card games. Play, provide feedback, and help shape the...

Klekolo World Coffee

Klekolo World Coffee welcomes Connecticut singer-songwriter Morgan Chambers to Klekolo Sessions on Tuesday, August 4, from 7–9 PM.
Morgan's music is rooted in the rawness of life's experiences, with songs exploring love, heartbreak, resilience, and personal growth. Blending indie and folk influences with soulful melodies and thoughtful lyrics, her performances create an intimate connection with listeners.
Morgan released her debut EP in 2025 and continues to build a growing collection of original music inspired by life's ups and downs.
Join us for an evening of live, original music in Klekolo's cozy listening-room atmosphere.

Local Event: Morgan Chambers LIve - Klekolo Sessions

Morgan Chambers LIve - Klekolo Sessions

Klekolo World Coffee welcomes Connecticut singer-songwriter Morgan Chambers to Klekolo Sessions on Tuesday, August 4, from 7–9...

Help Flood the Food Banks on Wednesday, August 5! Middlesex United Way, in partnership with The Flood Law Firm, is hosting a countywide food drive to benefit local food pantries throughout Middlesex County.
Community members are encouraged to donate nonperishable food and essential household items at participating collection sites across the county. Volunteers are also welcome to help collect donations throughout the day. (See link to sign-up to volunteer or donate)
The event is part of Middlesex United Way's Middlesex Pantry Project, an ongoing initiative to strengthen local food pantries and help ensure neighbors experiencing food insecurity have access to nutritious food year-round.<h3>Participating Collection Locations</h3>
<ul>
<li>
Adams Hometown Market – Deep River
</li>
<li>
Adams Hometown Market – Portland
</li>
<li>
Stop &amp; Shop – Clinton
</li>
<li>
Stop &amp; Shop – East Hampton
</li>
<li>
Stop &amp; Shop – Middletown
</li>
<li>
Lyman Orchards Apple Barrel Farm Market – Middlefield</li></ul>

Local Event: Flood the Food Banks Countywide Food Drive

Flood the Food Banks Countywide Food Drive

Help Flood the Food Banks on Wednesday, August 5! Middlesex United Way, in partnership with The Flood Law Firm, is hosting a...

1741 Pub and Grill

Shuffle up and deal! Join us at 1741 Pub &amp; Grill for a lively night of Setback, good company, and even better food and drinks.
Registration starts at 5 PM, with the first game kicking off at 6 PM. No partner needed, limited seating - first come, first serve.

Every 1st &amp; 3rd Wednesday of every month!
$20 buy-in | Half of every buy-in benefits TriCircle, an organization providing resources for individuals, families, and communities affected by the disease of addiction.
50/50 Raffles &amp; Cash Prizes

Local Event: Setback at 1741 Pub & Grill

Setback at 1741 Pub & Grill

Shuffle up and deal! Join us at 1741 Pub & Grill for a lively night of Setback, good company, and even better food and...

*Update (7/28 at 4:30pm): THE JULY 29th EVENT HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED DUE TO HEAVY RAIN &amp; POTENTIAL MUDDY CONDITIONS** New Date: August 5thEnjoy a Full Moon Sound Meditation in "The Meadow" at Lyman Orchards Golf Club with The Conduit on various dates in 2026.&nbsp;Relax to the soothing sounds of live gongs and singing bowls washing over you for deep meditative bliss. Lean into the heightened lunar energy of each&nbsp;Full Moon&nbsp;to align with your highest self.
During the Conduit's sound-meditation, you will quickly access the benefits of a deep meditative practice, without needing any experience or special techniques. Experience a live sound journey, finding stillness through the orchestration, allowing a deep connection to the space within your heart, mind and body. &nbsp;As the vibrations gently hold you, release mental and emotional blockages, and invite and strengthen a connection with your inner self.
Please bring props for your comfort. A zero gravity chair is perfect - or a beach towel with a yoga mat and a pillow and blanket would work as well. Eye coverings and water are also encouraged.
Approximately 60-75 minutes in length.
Registration is required.&nbsp;$25 per person per event. Fees&nbsp;include&nbsp;taxes&nbsp;and&nbsp;online&nbsp;ticketing&nbsp;fees.
<a target="_blank" href="https://lymanorchards.ticketspice.com/moon-meditation-2026" rel="nofollow noopener">Get Tickets</a>
Visit 1741 Pub &amp; Grill before or after the meditation for delicious cocktails, mocktails and food.&nbsp;<a href="https://1741pubandgrill.com/burger-and-main-menu/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">View their menu here.</a>&nbsp;
Dates Available:
<ul><li>Monday,&nbsp;June&nbsp;1st,&nbsp;6:30&nbsp;PM&nbsp;-&nbsp;7:45&nbsp;PM</li><li>Monday,&nbsp;June&nbsp;29th,&nbsp;7&nbsp;PM&nbsp;-&nbsp;8:15&nbsp;PM</li><li>Wednesday, August 5th,&nbsp;7&nbsp;PM&nbsp;-&nbsp;8:15&nbsp;PM</li><li>Thursday,&nbsp;August&nbsp;27th,&nbsp;6:30&nbsp;PM&nbsp;-&nbsp;7:45&nbsp;PM</li></ul>
Please park in the far left of the parking lot at 1741 Pub &amp; Grill, 70 Lyman Road. The meditation will be at the open space to the left of the parking lot. The closest restroom will be located at 1741 Pub &amp; Grill.
**This event will take place outdoors. In the event that the weather is questionable, you can visit our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lymanorchards/events" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Facebook event page</a> for up-to-the-minute event updates. Event updates will post by 3 pm on the day of the event. Should an individual event date needs to be cancelled, all ticket holders will automatically be pushed to the next available date in the series. If another date available works better for you, please contact <a href="mailto:npeach@lymanorchards.com">npeach@lymanorchards.com</a> to choose another date BEFORE the new date occurs. If the event is determined to be cancelled - you will be notified via email from Lyman Orchards at 3 pm on the date.&nbsp;
<a target="_blank" href="https://lymanorchards.ticketspice.com/moon-meditation-2026" rel="nofollow noopener">Get Tickets</a>&nbsp;NO REFUNDS.

Local Event: Full Moon Sound Meditation at Lyman Orchards

Full Moon Sound Meditation at Lyman Orchards

*Update (7/28 at 4:30pm): THE JULY 29th EVENT HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED DUE TO HEAVY RAIN & POTENTIAL MUDDY CONDITIONS** New Date:...

Lyman Orchards Sunflower Maze

<h3>See, Swirl, Sniff, Sip, and Savor: Sunflowers &amp; Sunsets! A Wine Tasting like no other!</h3>
Immerse yourself in the golden glow of a Connecticut summer evening with a unique wine tasting event set in the heart of the Lyman Orchards Sunflower Maze. On the first three Fridays in August, enjoy wine from three local wineries as you stroll through nearly one mile of winding sunflower pathways - just in time for sunset! Advance ticket purchase required, we are expecting to sell out!
Friday, August 7th, 14th &amp; 21st
5:00 PM - 7:30 PM (LAST ENTRY 7:00 PM. Maze takes approximately 30 minutes)
<h3></h3>
$40 per person (plus taxes and fees)
What to Expect:
<ul><li>Sip and sample wines from <a href="https://www.gouveiavineyards.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gouveia Vineyards</a> (Wallingford), <a href="https://www.paradisehillsvineyard.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Paradise Hills Vineyard</a> (Wallingford) &amp; <a href="https://www.priam-vineyards.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopAaG26DJzDRJVafua-pmzCSlS_cogtf8VX4OmGIv8VUcjaZ043" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Priam Vineyards</a> (Colchester)</li><li>Explore Connecticut's original Sunflower Maze, spanning 3 acres and blooming with 350,000 vibrant yellow, orange, and red sunflowers.&nbsp;Spot butterflies and yellow finches as you stroll through a scenic backdrop of rolling orchard hills.</li><li>Climb the 10-foot viewing platform for panoramic views and the perfect group photo opportunity.</li></ul>
Tickets include six (2oz) wine tastings and maze entry.
Advance ticket purchase required, we are expecting to sell out!
Important Information:
<ul><li>This event is 21+ only. Valid ID required. We ID Everyone!</li><li>Tickets are required to be purchased in advance.&nbsp;</li><li>No pets, children, or infants allowed. No exceptions.</li><li>Maze Location: 105 South Street, Middlefield, CT 06455</li><li>NO REFUNDS. In case of cancellation due to weather, tickets will automatically transfer to the next available date.</li></ul>
<h3></h3>
Enjoy dinner and live music every Friday at <a href="https://www.1741pubandgrill.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">1741 Pub &amp; Grill</a> from 6 PM - 9 PM. Reservations are highly suggested.
Come make magical August memories with us at Lyman Orchards - a one-of-a-kind evening filled with sunshine, scenery, and sips you won't forget!
Tickets are on sale online only. No tickets available to purchase at the entrance.
Event is 21+. Proof of photo ID required for ALL ticket holders. Children &amp; pets are NOT allowed inside the maze during this event.

Local Event: Sunflowers, Sips & Sunsets at Lyman Orchards Sunflower Maze

Sunflowers, Sips & Sunsets at Lyman Orchards...

See, Swirl, Sniff, Sip, and Savor: Sunflowers & Sunsets! A Wine Tasting like no other!
Immerse yourself in the golden glow of a...

Sunflowers, Sips & Sunsets at Lyman Orchards Sunflower Maze

Join us for live music, great food and drinks at 1741 Pub &amp; Grill on Friday nights! August 7th, Bruce Gregori will be playing from 6 PM - 9 PM. Bruce is an American jazz and virtuoso guitarist. Learn more here: <a href="https://www.brucegregori.com/about" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.brucegregori.com/about&nbsp;</a>Call 860-349-6033 to make a reservation.

Local Event: Friday Night Live Music Series Featuring Bruce Gregori at 1741 Pub & Grill

Friday Night Live Music Series Featuring Bruce...

Join us for live music, great food and drinks at 1741 Pub & Grill on Friday nights! August 7th, Bruce Gregori will be playing...

Friday Night Live Music Series Featuring Bruce Gregori at 1741 Pub & Grill

Lyman Orchards Apple Barrel Farm Market

<h3>SAVE THE DATE!</h3>
Plan a Peach Day at the Lyman Orchards Peach Festival! It's all happening at the Apple Barrel Farm Market on Saturday, August 8th, 10 AM - 4 PM!
Activities (Subject to change, stay tuned as we add more!):
<ul><li>8 AM - 4:30 PM: Pick Your Own Peaches, Apples &amp; Pears available, located on South Street</li><li>9 AM - 4:30 PM: Sunflower Maze open, located on South Street</li><li>9 AM - 6 PM: Apple Barrel Farm Market open</li><li>9 AM - 4 PM: Apple Barrel Deli open</li><li>9 AM - 6 PM: Gem Mining Activity at the Main Entrance of the Apple Barrel</li><li>10 AM - 4 PM: Circle K Petting Farm</li><li>10 AM - 3:30 PM: Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides</li><li>10 AM - 4 PM: Jeff's Kettle Corn</li><li>10 AM - 4 PM: Face Painting by Lara</li><li>10 AM - 4 PM: ToneGrown with Kids Crafts on the Patio</li><li>10 AM - 4 PM: Yard Games</li><li>10 AM - 5:30 PM: Lyman Orchards Creamery open (with a special seasonal Peach Sundae!)</li><li>11 AM - 12 PM: Live Music from School of Rock North Haven*</li><li>11 AM - 3 PM: Food Trucks (GMonkey &amp; Crazy Taco Mex)</li><li>12:30 PM: Kids &amp; Adult Pie Eating Contest* (free to participate, first come/first serve)</li><li>1 PM - 4 PM: Live Music from Slewfoot*</li></ul>
*Free Activities!
Admission to the Lyman Orchards Peach Festival is FREE!Activities &amp; Food Trucks subject to change, continue to check back for more information on other activities joining us at the Peach Festival!

Local Event: Peach Festival

Peach Festival

SAVE THE DATE!
Plan a Peach Day at the Lyman Orchards Peach Festival! It's all happening at the Apple Barrel Farm Market on...

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New Haven County

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Endless Summer Membership Special

Join now with our Endless Summer Membership Special and we'll waive the $50 Join Fee....

<h2>Secure your child's spot today at our Kids' Korner Middletown, Portland, Durham/Middlefield locations.</h2>While summer is still in full swing, now is the time for families to begin planning for the upcoming school year. The Northern Middlesex YMCA is now enrolling children in its Before &amp; Afterschool Child Care Programs, helping parents secure dependable care while giving children a safe, fun, and enriching place to learn, play, and grow each day.



More than just child care, the YMCA's Kids' Korner programs provide children with a safe, welcoming place to learn, play, and grow before the school bell rings and after the final dismissal.
Each day, children receive homework support, participate in STEM activities, create art, stay active through games and recreation, and build important social-emotional skills that help them succeed in school and in life. Most importantly, they become part of a caring community where they are encouraged to discover their strengths, make new friends, and develop confidence.
More than 500 children participate in YMCA Before &amp; Afterschool Programs each year. During the last school year alone, children took part in 7,780 healthy living activities, 4,417 STEM and enrichment experiences, and 4,744 social-emotional learning opportunities that supported their academic and personal growth.
The YMCA believes every child deserves access to high-quality child care, regardless of a family's financial circumstances. Last year, the YMCA awarded $79,348 in Open Doors Financial Assistance to help 141 children attend before and afterschool programs, with more than one-third of participating families receiving scholarship support. Thanks to the generosity of YMCA donors, Middlesex United Way, the Peach Pit Foundation, and other community partners, financial assistance continues to make these opportunities possible for local families.
Whether you're looking for dependable care before school, a fun and enriching place for your child after school, or both, the YMCA offers flexible options designed to meet the needs of today's families.
Space is limited at several locations, and early registration is encouraged.
Learn more, apply for financial assistance, or register today at <a href="http://www.midymca.org/before-after-school" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.midymca.org/before-after-school</a>.
Because every child deserves a place to learn, grow, belong&mdash;and every parent deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing their child is in caring hands.

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Readings By Karen, LLC

International Psychic/Medium Karen Hollis has used her abilities for more than 40 years to help people connect with their loved ones who have crossed over. Her private life readings are highly regarded for their accuracy, integrity, and compassion. Karen teaches seminars and has worked with law enforcement finding missing persons both in the United States and Canada. She has been featured on Discovery Channel’s “A Haunting,” and on “Paranormal Survivor.” As the lead Psychic/Medium Investigator with Ghosts of New England Research Society (G.O.N.E.R.S.), Karen is “the bridge between evidence and explanation.” To join one of Karen's classes or to schedule a private reading by phone, or in Karen's Office please call 860-665-8024

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Managed IT Services, Disaster Recovery, & Cyber Security

UNAPEN, Inc.

Since 1991, UNAPEN, Inc. has provided IT and Cyber Security Services, Custom Software Solutions, Systems Integration, Software products and Workflow/Process Automation tailored for Investment/Wealth Managers, Non-Profit Organizations, Educational Institutions, Attorneys, and a diverse range of SMBs! The expertise of UNAPEN's seasoned professionals uniquely positions them to advise clients on the value of technology. Our goal is to solidify and protect your IT infrastructure, enhance cyber security, streamline operations and workflow, centralize data, and automate highly complex manual tasks to make your company more successful and competitive. UNAPEN is a long-standing Gold Certified Microsoft Partner. Our solutions fall into these categories: • Strategic Process Consulting • AI Workflow &amp; Process Automation • Custom Client Statements, Meeting Packages &amp; Mgmt Reporting • Custom Software Development - Applications &amp; Interfaces - On-Premise, Web &amp; Mobile • Create/Upgrade Custom Excel, Power Apps, Power BI, MS Access, SQL Server &amp; .NET Applications • Pricing &amp; Reference Data Interfaces for SS&amp;C Advent Axys &amp; APX • CRM for Investment Advisers, Wealth Mgrs, Family Offices, Banking and other industries • Data Warehousing &amp; Data Aggregation • Affinity SQL Data Repository for Advisors • Business Intelligence &amp; Business Mgmt Tools • Digital Transformation &amp; Cloud Migration • IT Services • Cloud Backup, Disaster Recovery &amp; Business Continuity • CyberSecurity - Advanced Network Analysis &amp; Security Threat Reporting, Dark Web Monitoring &amp; Alerts on Compromised Employee Credentials • CyberSecurity - Employee CyberSecurity Awareness Training • CyberSecurity - EndPoint Detection &amp; Response • vCISO CyberSecurity Assessments • Ransomware Protection As a service provider &amp; partner in your success, UNAPEN brings to bear a unique skill set comprised of in-depth business knowledge combined with unparalleled technological expertise &amp; service delivery capability.

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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.

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

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