Events in Bristol today

Get ready for your Connecticut Pistol Permit with this state-required pistol permit course. The day includes classroom instruction covering concealed carry and home defense fundamentals such as handgun safety, shooting fundamentals, gear, and the legal use of force. The course also includes live fire, with the shooting portion taking place right after the class at a local indoor range in Bristol.

This family program at Colt Park celebrates the restoration of the Sam Colt Memorial with a hands-on craft activity. Participants can create a relief sculpture inspired by features of the monument or design their own, with materials available. The National Park Service will provide a guided tour of Coltsville.

Explore the stories of Cedar Hill’s trailblazing inventors on a guided walking tour of the historic cemetery. Learn how Gallaudet experimented with an airplane, how Colt reshaped firearms with his revolver, and how Gray advanced communication with the pay telephone, along with other inventive achievements. Foundation Director Beverly Lucas leads the tour, which departs from the flagpole at the end of the entrance drive. Admission is $10, with free entry for Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation members. Advance reservations are encouraged and can be completed online. Service animals are welcome, but other pets are not permitted.

Chess instruction is available for anyone, welcoming participants of any age and experience level. Whether you are learning the basics or brushing up on strategy, one-on-one and small group sessions provide personalized guidance. Offered every Saturday, this program is open to all and is made possible with support from the Connecticut Community Foundation.

The 64th annual West Indian celebration takes place in Bushnell Park, featuring a parade, a marketplace of vendors, and a concert. Admission is free. Food and other items will be available for purchase.

Stop by for a big in-person book sale at WorthWhile Reads Used Bookstore, featuring 20% off for the public and 30% off for members. There will also be author book signings with Kaitlyn and Megan McBryde, along with author Janaya Jones. Entry is free and no registration is needed. Members can get early access starting at 11:00 AM, and the public can visit from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM.

New England Auto Museum Car Show is shifting to a new spot in Bristol, Connecticut. The former North Main Street location is unavailable, so the event is moving a short distance to Hope Street. Attendees should enter from Riverside Avenue, which intersects North Main Street. Thanks to the City of Bristol for helping make the new location possible.

A single tour shares two intertwined stories, spotlighting the Black abolitionist Frederick Douglass and the white anti-slavery author Harriet Beecher Stowe. Their journeys are traced from childhood to literary influence, with attention to the roles of love, family, and education. Highlights include how Douglass secretly taught himself to read and write, the crucial support of Anna Murray in his escape to freedom, and the ways Uncle Tom’s Cabin drew inspiration from Douglass and other Black activists in the 19th century. This interactive, conversation-centered experience invites participants to handle historical objects and documents while engaging with difficult chapters of U.S. history in an empowering, age-appropriate setting. Created for intergenerational audiences, recommended for ages 6 and up.

An experience that brings together eating, drinking, and rock.

Join the Bristol Fish & Game Club for a charity trap shoot that supports CT Children’s Hospital. It’s a skeet-style shooting event focused on raising funds for a great cause.

The Hartford Yard Goats, the Double-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, host the 2nd Annual G.O.A.T. Card Show at Dunkin’ Park. Partnering with THE 413 CARD SHOW, presented by Fox Sports 97-9, and supported by Nash In The Ville Honkytonk, this gathering welcomes collectors, hobbyists, and fans of every age. Browse more than 100 tables filled with sports cards, memorabilia, and collectibles from a wide range of sports and hobbies. Displays will extend around the full 360 degree concourse of Dunkin’ Park, a venue recognized as Best Ballpark in America four times. Look forward to convenient parking, open concessions, and a lively ballpark atmosphere while you shop, trade, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Admission is $10, with free entry for children 10 and under. Vendors should secure tables only through official channels, as any offers made outside those channels are not valid.

Summer of Soul returns to Pratt Street in Hartford with a free outdoor yoga session presented by Afterglow Yoga Studios and Pratt Street. This all-levels class unfolds outdoors on the street, offering a welcoming space to move and stretch. It is free with RSVP. Please bring a yoga mat and water.

Spend the day riding the Litchfield County Clipper, a hop-on, hop-off scenic rail trip through the Litchfield Hills. Start at Thomaston Station or, for the first time, depart from Torrington at Market Street Creative or the new Water Street platform. Travel between stops at your own pace, stepping off to explore, shop, and enjoy local dining. Highlights include Thomaston Station, downtown Torrington’s shops and eateries, and Market Street Creative. One ticket covers unlimited same-day rides, so you can plan your route and choose the stops you want.

At Connecticut's Old State House, CT Witch Fest offers chances to learn some history, attend panel discussions, and enjoy dancing. Experience a weekend with a touch of magic as HCH presents multiple performances.

A new monthly Sunday market transforms Pratt Street into an open air marketplace where visitors can wander a charming, brick lined, pedestrian block in downtown Hartford to browse fresh produce, pantry staples, vinyl, and home goods. Each market morning begins with a free yoga session led by After Glow Yoga. Expect local farms, specialty food makers, and artisans, along with workshops, live music, and activities designed for attendees of all ages. The series is presented in partnership with the Hartford Culinary Collaborative. Vendors are welcome, especially those offering locally produced foods such as fruits and vegetables, eggs, cheeses and other dairy, meats, jams and pickles, dips and spreads, pasta with sauces, snacks and nuts, as well as artisan products and pet treats. The first market day is free for sellers, the full season rate is $200, and the drop in rate is $50 per day.

Presented by the Imperial Sovereign Court of All Connecticut, this free community showcase brings a night of high-energy variety performances at Chez Est, an LGBTQ+ bar, cabaret, and entertainment venue. Co-hosts include Imperial Crown Princess to Reign 27, Anne Tikk, and Liege Dayanara Love Dégagé. Expect spirited numbers from ISCofAllCT members, the wider Imperial Court System, and Connecticut community entertainers, along with refreshing drinks from the bar. Net proceeds benefit Reign 27 partners, including the ISCofAllCT Scholarship Fund, the CT Breast Health Initiative, the Hartford Gay Men’s Chorus, and Trans Voice 365, a program at the Metropolitan Community Church of Hartford. Contributions are welcomed via Venmo or PayPal at @CTImperialCourt.

This all-ages event is hosted at Infinity Music Hall in Hartford, Connecticut. Attendees of any age are welcome.

Learn the basics of coding at the library with a six week beginner series using Python. Each session lasts one hour and meets in the Computer Classroom. For ages 13 to 18.

Catch a complimentary film at the library, with popcorn provided. All are welcome. To register, call Manross at 860-584-7790.

Fresh, locally grown produce from Hartford takes center stage at the KNOX Farmers Market. The market connects the KNOX Urban Farming Program with the community, offering a welcoming place for Urban Farmers to grow their businesses and for shoppers to find food raised right in the city.

At Parkville Market, Monday Movie Nights bring family-friendly films to the patio for open-air screenings. Featured selections include Goat, Onward, KPop Demon Hunters, and Inside Out 2. Kids eat free all day on Mondays with the purchase of an adult entrée from the same vendor. Sponsored by CREC (Capitol Region Education Council).

Ms. Karen shares the first chapter or two from a selected book, and afterward participants can check out a copy to continue reading at home. Designed for children ages 8 and up, this session is part of an ongoing Summer Reading program. Register by visiting or calling the library at 860-584-7790.

RiverBarre offers a free full-body barre workout on the Hartford HealthCare Community Stage at Mortensen Riverfront Plaza, led by instructors from Hartford Sweat. The class blends ballet-inspired movement with yoga alignment and Pilates-based core training, using low-impact bodyweight exercises that may include resistance bands, stretching, and mindful breathing to build strength and stability. Participants are encouraged to bring a yoga mat and water, and to wear sneakers. Parking options include complimentary on-street spaces on both sides of the river and paid parking at the Connecticut Convention Center Garage, where parking on the fifth level and exiting on the north side provides direct access to the plaza. Attendance is free, and voluntary donations support ongoing programs. Contributions can be made at the class, online, or through Venmo.

Just four houses built in Waterbury before 1776 still stand. This talk reveals which homes remain and shares the stories of the families who lived in them during the Revolutionary War. The program also features images of other buildings from that era that have since disappeared. The presentation is led by Library Director and local historian Raechel Guest.

Visit the Children's Room each Tuesday to hear a story featuring seeds, trees, and nature-inspired characters.

This inclusive program is designed for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and offers an easygoing hour of coloring and simple crafts that encourage creativity and new connections. It meets weekly and may occasionally feature special activities such as bingo or movies. Participation is drop in, and no advance registration is needed. For questions, call 860-584-7790.

Homeschool Tuesdays at Capital Ice Cream offers a relaxed meetup for homeschooling families to connect and play in a friendly setting. Children can explore hands-on toy and activity areas, enjoy story time, and take part in both solo and group play, while adults meet other families in the homeschool community. Families are welcome to bring lunch and stay as long as it suits their day.

In this computer classroom session, learn how to organize files on your computer.

Returning for its second year, this women-only networking gathering offers an informative and enjoyable experience focused on building connections and learning. It takes place at Max Pizza 4.

The Computer Classroom hosts Fiero Code’s Summertime Competition, offering a fun way to learn coding or to polish existing skills so you can show them off to friends and family when fall arrives.

Tuesday Night Lines brings music, community, and plenty of dancing to Bristol Elks Lodge 1010. These Tuesday sessions are geared toward Beginner and Improver levels, creating a comfortable setting for those just starting out as well as dancers looking to refine their footwork. On the fourth Tuesday of each month, the event moves to a different dance location, with details for that week announced separately.

Walk among and experience a living history Union infantry company during this in-person program. The 8th Regiment CT Volunteers, Company A, Inc. will portray Civil War-era Union infantry through four simultaneous stations: History, Drill, a weapons demonstration (no firing), and a Haversack Drill. If weather turns inclement, the event will move indoors.

Skyway brings an energetic blend of R&B and 70s dance grooves to the Rockin Out at Rockwell Summer Concert Series, covering everything from classic funk and soul to today’s pop hits. Sets feature well known songs made famous by Earth, Wind & Fire, Donna Summer, Michael Jackson, and Chic, alongside contemporary selections tied to Justin Timberlake and Bruno Mars. This free weekly summer series includes food trucks presented by the West End Association, with options such as Rita’s Italian Ice and Custard, El Encanto Oaxaqueno, and Pollo Frito, and offerings are subject to change. Concert programming spans funk, rhythm and blues, country, classic rock, and more. Blankets and chairs are welcome, and dinner can be enjoyed from the trucks during the concert.

This family support group offers a space to talk about caring for a friend or relative who lives with a mental health issue and to explore coping strategies and ways to help. Organized by NAMI Waterbury and held at The Salvation Army in Waterbury, CT.

The Yard Goats welcome the Moon Mammoths to Dunkin' Park for a head-to-head game featuring the team created and popularized by Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. The event also celebrates Reading Books in Summer participants with support from Eversource. Attendees can take part in Baseball Bingo presented by Hartford Provision Company for a chance to win prizes. The game is presented by Call Before You Dig.

Senior Mornings provides a peaceful opportunity to explore the Museum’s collection and rotating special exhibitions in a quiet, comfortable setting prior to opening.

Held every Wednesday, Wake Up Wednesday is a community-driven program in Hartford led by the Greater Hartford NAACP, centered on direct relief, mutual aid, and practical, real-time support. What began as a simple food distribution has grown into a consistent outreach effort that now serves hundreds of residents. Each week, neighbors can pick up free groceries and freshly prepared meals, from cookouts to grinders. There are clothing giveaways for all ages and seasons, along with household supplies and hygiene items. No paperwork and no questions asked. In addition to essentials, on-site partners offer services people can use right away, including job support and reentry assistance for those with records or employment gaps, legal help from Greater Hartford Legal Aid, harm reduction resources through CTHRA such as Narcan kits, clean syringes, and overdose prevention tools, as well as housing and recovery connections. The team brings services to familiar community spaces so help is easy to access and face-to-face. For many, this weekly gathering is a lifeline where dignity is honored and neighbors look out for one another, reinforcing that no one in the city has to navigate hardship alone. Support is welcome through donations, volunteering, or by spreading the word.

In the Children’s Room, little ones can settle in for a storytime filled with tales that carry imaginations to far‑off places. This gathering is intended for children ages 6 and under.

Now in its 12th year, this back-to-school block party at CREC’s central headquarters in Hartford brings the Greater Hartford community together to support children and families as a new school year approaches. Over 1,200 backpacks stocked with school supplies are available at no cost for children ages 3 to 17. All attendees complete a check-in process, and pre-registration helps make that step faster. Backpacks are distributed only after check-in at the Block Party and when children are present. Throughout the event, CREC partners with the City of Hartford and more than 30 community organizations to share information about schools and local services with the over 3,000 people who attend.

Discover Dungeons and Dragons in a learn-as-you-play club at the library. Build a hero, work with a party, and level up through a guided campaign. All experience levels are welcome, from first-timers to seasoned players. The group meets in the Auditorium.

Enjoy a free, all-levels Vinyasa yoga session by the water at Mortensen Riverfront Plaza, guided by instructors from Hartford Sweat. The class links breath with movement, blends music with smooth, calming postures, and is suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners alike. Practice lasts about an hour in a shaded setting with a scenic backdrop to help you unwind for the week. Please bring water and a yoga mat. Free street parking is available on both sides of the river, and paid parking is offered in the Connecticut Convention Center Garage; park on the fifth floor and use the north-side exit for direct access to the Convention Center, the Connecticut Science Center, and Mortensen Riverfront Plaza. A $5 donation is suggested to help keep these summer Wednesday classes free, with contributions accepted at the class or on Venmo @riverfrontrecapture.

Money stress can feel like a lot to carry, but this practical workshop breaks it down into small steps you can start using right away. You’ll cover topics like spending habits, debt, financial decision-making, and everyday routines that help you feel more confident and in control. Presented by Faye Griffiths-Smith from UConn Extension, this in-person session is designed to be encouraging and actionable from start to finish.

Experience DJ Bingo at Bear's Smokehouse BBQ, a lively mix of music and bingo. Play along while enjoying barbecue from Bear's, and take part at no cost.

An Adult Camo Jersey will be given to the first 1,000 fans in attendance, presented by the CT Army National Guard. The Yard Goats host the Tigers affiliate, and there will also be a celebration of Reading Books in Summer kids, thanks to Eversource.

Follow hints from librarians to track down Silas the Cat, a stuffed animal hidden and waiting to be found. After spotting him, take a photo, show it to a librarian, and receive a prize. Suitable for ages 2 and up, this lighthearted scavenger hunt encourages curiosity and sharp observation.

A relaxed story time invites little ones to enjoy a mix of music, stories, and simple movement activities. Designed for children ages 0 to 5 attending with a caregiver, this session welcomes walk-ins and does not require registration. For details, contact Manross Library at 860-584-7790.

This weekly library storytime blends reading with music and introduces a new theme each week. After the story, children can make a related craft.

Explore an iconic Hartford landmark in Bushnell Park with free tours of the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch, the city's monument honoring 4,000 residents who fought in the Civil War. Volunteer Arch Guides lead brief tours that share the story of the Arch's design and construction and explain the symbolism found in its carvings and statuary. No pre-registration is required. If time is short, you can skip the tour and climb 96 steps to the top for views of the park and the State Capitol. If the weather looks uncertain, check the website for any cancellation updates. Street parking is available around the park, and payment is made at the kiosk.

Give your mind a workout with a mix of games, puzzles, and friendly conversation. Guests can attend with a friend or take the opportunity to meet new people. The gathering takes place in the Auditorium.

Settle into a quiet spot in the auditorium for dedicated writing time alongside other writers. Tea, coffee, and cookies will be available to keep the session comfortable and relaxed.

KNOX celebrates six decades of greening Hartford with its annual Garden Party at the Bushnell Park Pump House and Carousel. Attendees can savor fresh seasonal fare, enjoy live music, and take to the dance floor. Proceeds support community gardens, urban gardening programs, volunteer efforts, tree planting, and city planters that contribute to a healthier environment and improved quality of life in Hartford.

Plant Bingo returns to The Garden at Pinehurst Farm in Bristol, Connecticut as part of The Garden Games at Pinehurst. Expect a playful evening with plants, prizes, and a warm barn atmosphere inside a charming indoor garden venue. The program includes six rounds of bingo with curated plant prizes, ranging from Pinehurst favorites to standout statement plants reserved for the final rounds. A Flower or Plant Bar invites guests to craft a floral or plant arrangement to take home, ensuring everyone leaves with something green. Attendees receive 15% off shop purchases during the event, and it is BYOB, so snacks and drinks are welcome. Tickets are $45 per person. The setting is a cozy New England barn, so dressing in layers is recommended for comfort throughout the night. Seating is limited. This gathering is a relaxed option for plant lovers or a unique night out with friends, and it is part of an ongoing series at Pinehurst.

Enjoy a free, weekly, one-hour Zumba workout on the Hartford HealthCare Community Stage at the lower level of Mortensen Riverfront Plaza, led by instructors from Hartford Sweat. Free on-street parking is available on both sides of the river. Paid parking is offered in the Connecticut Convention Center Garage; park on the fifth floor and use the exit on the north side of the garage for direct access to the Convention Center, Connecticut Science Center, and Mortensen Riverfront Plaza. A suggested donation of $5 supports keeping classes free, with contributions accepted at the class or via Venmo @riverfrontrecapture.

OF VIRTUE and SAVAGE HANDS bring The Art of Love and Power Tour to the stage with support from KINGDOM COLLAPSE and SORRY X. General admission is $20 in advance, and $25 on the day of the show.

Italian Heritage Night brings specialty dishes and themed promotions to the ballpark, adding Italian flavor to the festivities. The Yard Goats take on the Tigers' affiliate, setting the stage for an evening of baseball alongside a cultural celebration.