Events in Hamden today

Artists will work on enchanting projects inspired by characters from Disney and Harry Potter during a weeklong art program. The fee is $160 for the week. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. Registration is available online, and mobile users should use the Chrome browser.

Hagaman Memorial Library launches Plant a Seed and Read, an adult summer reading games and raffle built on the idea that stories, like seeds, grow with care and curiosity. The theme connects nature with reading, encouraging exploration, learning, and imagination while emphasizing personal growth, community ties, and lifelong learning. Starting next month, when finished books are returned to Main Circulation, participants can complete a short Rate Your Read and hand it to the desk staff, and each submission becomes a raffle entry for prizes throughout the season. Whether you are savoring beach reads or settling in with a good book indoors, the library is celebrating the season and supporting adult readers all summer.

Learn to craft Detroit-style pizza in a hands-on class at Michelina’s Apizza & Ristorantè. The experience begins with a playful dough-tossing tutorial and a quick look at the style’s origins, then shifts into practical pizza making. An instructor will show how to mix dough and sauce using ingredients sourced from a single place so the process is easy to repeat at home. Participants will portion and shape dough balls, hand-stretch without a rolling pin, assemble their pies, move them to the oven, bake, slice, and enjoy the finished pizza. Plan for about three and a half hours total, with approximately two and a half hours of instruction followed by about an hour of pizza making. Foxon Park soda is included, and Italian music plays throughout the session. The cost is $133 per student.

Enjoy bingo at The Sly Fox Tavern in North Haven every Monday during happy hour. No music knowledge is needed to take part. This is a cash game with a prize pot that grows as more players join. Cards are $2 each, or six for $10 per round, and payment for bingo is cash only.

Storytime Tuesdays at the Shore Line Trolley Museum offers a welcoming morning experience for young children and their families. Each visit features a themed read-aloud followed by a ride aboard a vintage trolley on the historic Branford Electric Railway, blending early literacy with a glimpse into transportation history. Sessions last about an hour and are planned for the morning so little ones can wrap up before lunchtime and naps. Children enjoy a light snack and drink, and each child takes home a copy of the featured book. Admission is $10 per child, and adults attend at no charge. Space is limited to keep the experience comfortable and engaging for families.

The Shore Line Trolley Museum offers a trolley ride tailored for individuals and families who benefit from a quieter, lower-stimulation setting. This specially scheduled trip features smaller group sizes, softer sound levels, short waits, and an overall calm, supportive environment. Advance reservations are required, and capacity is intentionally limited to keep the experience comfortable. Caregivers may attend at no charge. From check-in through the ride itself, the aim is to provide a welcoming and predictable experience. Families are encouraged to review the museum’s visitor information beforehand so everyone can arrive prepared with confidence.

Terrace on the Green hosts P.U.B. Fun Trivia, a lively game night where teams tackle general knowledge questions across categories like sports, movies, TV, pop culture, history, and more. Prizes are awarded to top teams, and food and drinks are available from the menu while you play. Because this event draws many teams, table reservations are recommended for better seating. To reserve, call 203-269-6023.

Digital Tracks Entertainment hosts Mixtape Match in The Cellar on Treadwell, a music-based twist on bingo where songs take the place of letters and numbers. When a track plays, you mark the matching square on your card, and there is no need to know titles or artists because they are announced. The game features three rounds, each with its own theme, with examples that include 80s music, TV theme songs, classic rock, current hits, 90s alternative, one hit wonders, hair bands, and old school hip hop. You can play any number of rounds. Cards are $2 each or $10 for six, and all money collected is returned to the players while neither the host nor the venue takes a cut. The pot grows as more people participate.

Explore the history of electric rail transportation at the Shore Line Trolley Museum, where admission includes unlimited trolley rides and access to the historic campus. Ride aboard authentic antique trolley cars from cities such as New Haven, New Orleans, Brooklyn, and Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and travel along the oldest continuously operating suburban street railway in the United States, opened in 1900 to connect New Haven with the Connecticut shoreline. As a working museum, visitors may also observe restoration projects and ongoing preservation work throughout the property. Equipment in service varies by day and weather conditions. Tickets are available at the door or at the Visitor Center and are valid for the full day. Admission is $15 for adults, $14 for seniors 62 and older, $10 for children, and free for children under 2. Special events may have separate pricing. In recognition of America 250, the museum highlights Innovation and Ingenuity and how electric railways transformed cities and connected communities, with special programming and select days that may feature free or reduced admission.

An on-campus farm stand features freshly harvested, locally grown vegetables. Shoppers can take home produce straight from the fields, enjoy bright seasonal flavors, and support local farmers while bringing farm to fork into everyday meals.

Enjoy a summer evening learning and playing mahjong on the patio at Bear's Smokehouse BBQ. Arrive early to take advantage of Happy Hour before play begins. Admission is $15, and players of all experience levels are welcome.

At the Wallingford Family YMCA, this women’s self defense seminar features instruction from Jane Jitsu and Real World Krav Maga. Learn real-world, practical, instinct-based techniques and concepts tailored for women and girls ages 13 and up.

The Cellar hosts a recurring karaoke night led by Steve Savage, open to seasoned singers as well as first-timers. Dinner comes from Jam City Pizza, and the bar is ready with drinks to help calm the nerves. It offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere centered on music, with opportunities for anyone who wants to get up and sing.

Hail The Sun brings a performance to Space Ballroom, presented by Premier Concerts and Manic Presents. This event welcomes all ages, and tickets are currently on sale.

Outdoor cinema returns to downtown New Haven at Pitkin Plaza with free screenings that range from big hits and nostalgic throwbacks to cult picks and family friendly titles. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and feel free to pick up takeout from a nearby spot for a relaxed evening under the stars. Admission is free, and a quick registration takes place at the check in table when you arrive. Complimentary light snacks are offered. You are welcome to bring your own seating, though a limited number of bistro and lawn seats are available. Screenings depend on the weather, with day of updates shared on the event website and the Facebook event page. Viewer discretion is advised, so please look into each film’s themes and content before attending with children.

Mr. Donald's Farm brings homemade sweet treats to West Haven Green during the farmers market. Look for farm fresh eggs, pies, muffins, jams, granola and more, with the selection varying because everything is freshly baked. The market also features homegrown fruits and vegetables, baked goods, handmade crafts and more. Pre-ordering is available for anyone who wants to reserve favorites ahead of time.

Many adults in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond, whether still working or retired, are considering how to make the most of the years ahead. This four-part workshop offers guided visualization, hands-on art and writing activities, and supportive group conversation to help participants overcome obstacles and shape a rewarding third act. The sessions are led by Amy J. Barry, a certified express arts facilitator, published author, and award-winning journalist. Presented with support from the Friends of the Hagaman Library. Participation is limited to 12 people, and registration is required with a commitment to attend all four sessions.

Mosaico Cuisine hosts a festive BurgerRumba that blends Latin vibes with Caribbean-inspired burgers and bold flavors. Every burger order includes a side of the signature Turbo Fries, served hot and well seasoned. Purchase any two Mosaico Burgers and receive a complimentary order of Venezuelan wings finished with a sweet and savory sugar cane Papelón glaze. Look forward to handmade sauces, attentive 4.8-star service, and a welcoming dine-in atmosphere. The wings promotion is valid for dine-in only.

Jon Batiste brings a live concert to Westville Music Bowl in New Haven, Connecticut.

Summer @ The Well brings a relaxed social vibe to The Well, the pub on the lower level of Yale Schwarzman Center, with live music and chances to connect with others. This edition spotlights the Jeff Brock Trio, led by Yale Professor Jeff Brock, an accomplished jazz musician. Brock, Dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Science and the William S. Massey Professor of Mathematics as well as Professor of Statistics and Data Science, performs with his trio for the final Summer @ The Well event before the new academic year begins.

Jon Batiste brings his acclaimed live show to Westville Music Bowl for an all ages concert presented by Premier Concerts, Manic Presents, and Bowery Presents. The singer, songwriter, composer, and pianist is an eight-time Grammy winner and also holds Academy and Emmy honors, celebrated for a boundary-blurring sound and a commitment to inclusivity and cultural exploration. His latest album, Big Money, draws from gospel, soul, blues, folk, and rock and roll, features collaborations with No I.D., Randy Newman, and Andra Day, earned multiple Grammy nominations and won Best Americana Album, and fueled a national headlining run that visited more than 30 venues and often sold out. Before that, Beethoven Blues launched his solo piano series by reimagining iconic Beethoven works, spending nine weeks atop Billboard’s Classical Albums chart and marking his biggest sales week. World Music Radio continued his global vision with contributors like Jon Bellion, Lana Del Rey, and Lil Wayne, earning five Grammy nominations including Album of the Year. He is also the focus of the Netflix documentary American Symphony, created with Higher Ground, capturing professional milestones surrounding his album We Are alongside an intimate family story. He co-wrote the film’s original song It Never Went Away, which received an Oscar nomination and won the Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media. Additional highlights include Grammy-nominated projects Chronology of a Dream: Live at the Village Vanguard and Meditations with Cory Wong, composing the score for Jason Reitman’s film Saturday Night, and contributing to Disney and Pixar’s Soul, which earned him the Academy Award for Best Original Score with Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross as well as Golden Globe, BAFTA, NAACP Image, and Critics’ Choice awards. He also served as bandleader and musical director for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on CBS. Tickets are on sale now.

At Wood-n-Tap in Hamden, Music Bingo hosted by Wild Bloom’s Matty F is free to play and replaces numbers with short clips of songs. It is not a traditional trivia format, since the video screen displays each track’s title and artist to help everyone follow along. The game features four rounds with different patterns and categories, and the winner of each round chooses the category for the next one. Prizes are given to winners in every round, creating a lively mix of music, friendly competition, and food and drinks with plenty of chances to win.

An introductory tour of the Beinecke Library presents its mission, history, architecture, collections, and services. Led by library staff or a student guide, each tour lasts about 45 minutes, and no reservations are required. For visitor details, hours, and exhibitions, along with ways to explore online, check the library website. The ground floor and mezzanine exhibition areas remain free and open to the public every day.

Hagaman Memorial Library offers a weekly Summer Teen Lounge in the DeMayo Room, presented by the Teen Services Department. Youth ages 12 to 18 can relax with friends and explore a different activity each week, including tabletop games, hands-on crafts, manga, movies, and other options. Attendance is free and the focus is on fun, connection, and trying something new.

Chris Marolda appears at Paradise Hills Vineyard & Winery for an event that pairs music with wine.

A genuine blues night comes to North Haven with Rocky Lawrence, an artist who brings the golden era of the music vividly to life. His playing and singing carry the grit and soul of the tradition, tracing a musical path that leads back to Robert Johnson, whether through electric fire that nods to Hendrix or the acoustic pulse of alternating bass and slide guitar. Lawrence’s presence onstage is unmistakable, from a sharp suit and Dobbs hat to two-toned shoes, and a well-loved Gibson “Robert Johnson” guitar worn smooth at the fingerboard, a sign of deep dedication to the source. He is a seasoned bluesman whose conviction is felt in every note. His journey began at nine with the trumpet. Born in Connecticut, where he still resides, he grew up in a home filled with Louis Armstrong and Mahalia Jackson, with Armstrong as an early hero. At eleven he was captivated by Jimi Hendrix, picked up the guitar, and soon learned how Muddy Waters’ changes underpin Voodoo Child, which led him to the foundations in Robert Johnson and Son House. Expect an evening of soulful storytelling through music, paired with boutique wines and refreshing hard ciders from Apple Theory Cidery.

This twice-weekly Gundam Card Game meetup features prizes each round. Participants receive packs each round, and store credit is awarded based on placement. The entry fee is $10.

Surf into a retro soundtrack as The Aquatudes appear in ReRead’s Summer Concert Series, showcasing 50s and 60s rockabilly, classic rock and roll, and California surf rock. The performance unfolds in the courtyard on the upper level of The Watch Factory Shoppes, creating a lively setting for a night of timeless tunes.

Set at East Shore Park in New Haven, this gathering features an upbeat atmosphere with friendly faces and spirited, competitive play, all infused with summer energy. It welcomes both serious competitors with an eye on cash and those simply out for a relaxed day on the sand, creating a place where the city comes to play.

A casual breakfast with JCSNE at Mozzicato’s in Wallingford, offering space to talk about current projects and ask for advice. Attendees can share what they are working on, connect with others, and enjoy a relaxed, conversation-first atmosphere.

Mr. Donald's Farm brings homemade sweet treats to the Tony Inzero Farmers Markets, featuring farm fresh eggs along with pies, muffins, jams, granola, and other freshly baked items that change from week to week. The market also showcases homegrown fruits and vegetables, baked goods, and handmade crafts along the beach boardwalk. Pre-orders are available for those who want to reserve favorite items.

Get answers to plant questions and troubleshoot garden issues with guidance from UConn Extension experts. Kim, a Master Gardener Intern, and Giulia, a Certified Master Gardener, will be available for friendly conversation, practical tips, and problem solving. Participants are welcome to bring plant cuttings or photos to help with identification and diagnosis. A community plant swap will take place as well, where you can share or pick up plants and seeds, and there is no requirement to bring something in order to take something. Information about online courses and the Master Gardener certification program will also be available.

Spartan DEKA and Underdog Fitness present a new Hartford challenge that pushes performance, adds a game-like twist, and celebrates personal fitness. DEKA STRONG features ten functional training zones with no running. Competitors can earn a DEKA STRONG mark and use it as a step toward DEKA FIT 2026. Space is limited.

Family Day in New Haven features tasty food, classic arcade games, and family friendly fun for all ages. Children must be with a parent or legal guardian. Barcade is donating a portion of Family Day token sales to Gamers Outreach, a charity that provides recreation for children in hospitals through video games and the gaming community.

The Blessed Michael McGivney Pilgrimage Center hosts a feast day celebration honoring Blessed Michael McGivney. The event features activities and food available throughout, an opportunity to explore the McGivney Gallery, and an author talk with Emily Tennant, writer of Father McGivney and the Knights of Columbus.

An original musical revue that traces over two centuries of music for the stage, moving from grand opera to landmark Broadway tunes. Seasoned Broadway and opera professionals share the spotlight with standout local talent in a program of favorite songs, vivid scenes, and high-energy choreography tied to creators such as Mozart, Bizet, Verdi, Puccini, Hammerstein, Sondheim, Fosse, and Miranda. Presented in WISP’s cozy cabaret-style setting, this lively production is crafted to engage audiences of every generation.

Local play for the Gundam Card Game with prize support each round. Participants receive a pack every round, and store credit is awarded based on placement. The entry fee is $10. At times this event is replaced by prereleases or other larger events; for event listings, see Bandai TCG+.

A kayak tour along the Farm River features paddling through the Tidegate and views of Johnson's Quarry, Kelsey's Island, the area known as the gut, and Granite Bay. At Johnson's Beach, Ben Kelsey will share a talk about 8,000 years of Indigenous use of the Farm River and will bring items he has collected from the river. Transportation by truck will be available at the end of the outing.

This three-round event centers on Riftbound, the League of Legends card game. The entry fee is $10. Promos, packs, and store credit are distributed. It is part of a twice-weekly schedule that offers regular chances to play.

Musicians perform at the Sandpiper as part of a recurring series of live shows.

An evening of English country dancing awaits at Mount Carmel Congregation Church Parish Hall. Dance Master Paul McGuire will teach and lead the dances, so newcomers and experienced participants alike can step in with confidence. General admission is $15. Light refreshments will be available, and attendees are encouraged to bring simple shareable food that does not require significant preparation. Free parking is available, and entry is through the side door near the back of the building.

A hometown artist returns for an acoustic performance at C.J. Sparrow Pub & Eatery. Enjoy live, unplugged tunes alongside food and drinks.

Bendigo Fletcher shares the stage with g'nite at Space Ballroom. Presented by Premier Concerts and Manic Presents, this all ages show has tickets available now.

Classic rock takes center stage in a live show dedicated to the memory of Daniel Morgan Lynch. Performing are Ann Marie Minopoli, Anthony Appese, Peter Lucibelli and Ken Kraynak, with the possibility of a few special guests.