Events in New London, CT

An open sew session with Cheryl Kirk takes place on the first and third Tuesday of each month. Bring any project, from quilting and machine sewing to handwork, and make use of a large, well lit classroom. Coffee and tea are available, and lunch can be enjoyed in the shop or at nearby spots. The fee is $20. If bringing a machine is not convenient, a classroom machine can be rented for $10 for the day. Participants receive a 20 percent discount on regular priced purchases made during Open Sew.

Pick up a convenient grab-and-go lunch while supporting programs at Easterseals Veterans Rally Point. Proceeds from each meal benefit these services. Offered every Tuesday and open to all.

A welcoming support group where parents of newborns and young kids can connect and build community. It is designed to help families during a child's first two years. Babies and partners are welcome to take part.

Andre & Friends perform live at Angie's Pizza & Pier 27 Lounge.

The entry fee is $10. Prizes are based on attendance, with larger turnouts increasing the total prize support.

This recurring gathering features a $10 entry fee. Prizes scale with attendance and are awarded as Gilt Leaf Games Prize Tickets.

At Norwich Golf Club, the Rotary Clubs of Norwich host a golf tournament that brings together friendly competition and community support. The day features registration, a putting contest, a silent auction, a shotgun start, and a post round dinner with more auction bidding and awards. Last year the tournament raised $14,000 to benefit numerous local organizations. Participation helps sustain these programs, and the event is designed for seasoned golfers as well as those new to the game, with a focus on enjoyment and giving back.

Learn or refine English Paper Piecing in a welcoming club led by Cheryl. This beginner friendly gathering starts with the fundamentals for new stitchers, then continues with hands-on time to work on a quilt or any other EPP project both during meetings and at home. Participants can bring projects of their choice and pick up helpful techniques, tips, and tricks to strengthen stitching skills. Cheryl, an enthusiast of Tula Pink fabrics and designs, offers guidance throughout each session. All needed supplies are available in the shop. The fee is $20 per session, and participants receive a 20% discount on regular priced merchandise during club meetings.

Open fencing sessions are planned, and the schedule may change based on weather and other scheduling needs.

Work on any project, whether quilting, sewing, or handwork, during an open sew session with Laura McCarrick that takes place on the first and third Thursday of each month. Settle into a spacious, well lit classroom, enjoy coffee or tea, and take a break for lunch in the shop or at nearby spots. The participation fee is $20. If you prefer not to bring a machine, a classroom machine can be rented for $10 for the day. Regular priced purchases made during Open Sew receive a 20 percent discount.

A Pokémon league event featuring age divisions for Juniors, Seniors, and Masters. Entry is $5. Prizes are based on attendance and final standings, offering a structured and welcoming setting for players across divisions.

This drop-in class is designed for anyone interested in competitive Rally. It suits beginners, teams working toward higher titles, and retired champions who would benefit from extra practice in the ring. Those curious about Rally can see what it involves and try it out. Pre-registration is not required. For more information, contact Christine at stareba@gmail.com.

A weekend of hands-on crafting at Holiday Inn Norwich supports the Jolly John's Keep you Truckin' Fund. The $275 weekend package includes two dinners to keep ideas flowing, two hearty breakfasts to start the day, and a Saturday afternoon snack for an extra boost. Each participant has a personal six-foot workspace with plenty of room to create. Optional add-on classes in card making or scrapbooking are available for $50 each. Look forward to a warm atmosphere filled with creativity, camaraderie, and plenty of crafting.

Outdoor live music fills the lawn at Schaefer’s Spouter Tavern at Mystic Seaport Museum as part of a summertime series. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and choose a place on the grass, since space is limited and can fill early. The waterfront setting provides a relaxed backdrop for the performance. The Kenn Morr Band appears in support of its latest album, "Still Shining," recorded at Sandy Brook Studios in Colebrook, Connecticut. The release features eleven original songs by Kenn Morr and highlights the band’s tight, cohesive musicianship.

Preacher Dogs makes its debut at Priam Vineyards with a high-energy psychedelic rock performance that radiates positivity. The set turns back the clock to the 60s and 70s with favorites from The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, Cream, The Rolling Stones, Deep Purple, Joe Cocker, John Lennon, Steppenwolf, Cheap Trick, and more. It is a nostalgic journey through the era’s iconic sound.

This casual Commander event runs for three rounds and uses achievements to award Gilt Leaf Games Prize Tickets. The entry fee is $5.

This recurring gathering features a $10 entry with a prize pool that scales with turnout and final placement. Every participant is guaranteed at least two packs plus a current promo pack. The top finisher also receives an Origins Promo Pack, subject to availability.

Set in the snow-covered community of Almost, Maine, this play brings together a tapestry of tender and humorous scenes that explore love in many forms. Characters experience delight, heartache, and surprise as their stories intersect, revealing how connection can emerge in the most unlikely moments. With warmth, wit, and a few twists along the way, it offers a gentle reminder that romance often appears when it is least expected.

A high-octane tribute to Tina Turner fills the Black Box auditorium. Guided by Jenn Cristy, whose dynamic command of the stage channels Tina rather than imitates her, this live music show lifts the room from the opening note to the final bow. It spotlights hits including Proud Mary, River Deep - Mountain High, What's Love Got To Do With It, and The Best, plus more. This performance is seated in the Black Box auditorium. All sales are final, with no refunds or exchanges. The United is not responsible for tickets purchased through third-party sellers.

Misfit Club transforms into a high energy Friday night dance party, where the lights dip low, the bass surges, and the room crackles with excitement. Every style and vibe is embraced, creating a welcoming space to dress up, show your flair, or let loose without pressure. Outfits range from bold statements to carefree comfort, and the Misfit Club community fuels the dance floor as the night builds to anything goes fun. It all happens in Mystic with an inclusive atmosphere, big beats, and bright spirits.

A family-friendly fall festival features a moon bounce at no cost, complimentary activities and crafts, and additional crafts available for purchase. Browse a craft fair that includes a kids market and an adult craft show supporting local and growing businesses, with original, handmade, high quality goods, local flavors, and occasional vintage finds. Food trucks serve meals, drinks, and desserts. Admission and parking are free. Dogs are welcome. Vendor inquiries and applications can be directed to tamaramort6@gmail.com.

Community members will pick up litter in Bates, maintain trails, and improve the park. The group will meet at the container displaying the BFF logo by Animal Control, then head out to work. Everyone is welcome to go at a comfortable pace and leave early if needed. Tools and gloves are provided, and bringing your own gear is fine. Remember to bring water.

Enjoy a free meditation walk open to everyone. Participants meet at the gazebo for a Qigong-inspired warmup and a brief meditative word, then take a silent walk around Spaulding Pond. The gathering concludes with time to reflect together on the experience from the silent walk.

Fort Trumbull State Park hosts an immersive reenactment of colonial life in the 18th century to mark the United States’ 250th anniversary. Step into the 1700s and connect with the era as the past is brought to life throughout the park.

Next Stop Comedy brings stand-up to Tapped Apple Cidery & Winery with a fresh lineup every time. Each show features a different mix of comedians, including performers with television and podcast credits, creating a fun night of laughs at this local venue.

Celebrate beluga whales at a family-focused event that links the Arctic to the local community. Explore interactive stations and participatory activities while discovering practical ways, both small and large, to support more resilient communities. The program connects with research and conservation work in Cook Inlet, Alaska, showing how these whales serve as ambassadors for the Arctic and motivate action for a healthier planet. Access is included with general Aquarium admission.

Step aboard for a guided boat excursion that illuminates the Thames River’s past and present. A knowledgeable docent shares engaging commentary as the route follows both shores, from the river’s meeting with Long Island Sound to sights near the Coast Guard Academy. Along the way, hear about the figures, landmarks, and events that shaped the region, discover heritage sites to visit in Groton and New London, and learn stories from communities connected to Thames River Heritage Park. This outing is open to all ages. You are welcome to bring a small cooler with favorite beverages and snacks, then relax with family or friends and enjoy the ride. Tours run Friday through Sunday and are weather dependent, so check the website or social media pages for the latest schedule and information. For questions, call (860) 333-6706.

Explore New London’s maritime story on a walking tour that traces the people, ships, commerce, and turning points that shaped this waterfront city. The route moves through downtown and along the waterfront, connecting scenes from Indigenous waterways and the Revolutionary War to eras of privateering and whaling, notable naval figures, submarine milestones, and the enduring role of the United States Coast Guard. Along the way, discover accounts of daring rescues, celebrated vessels, wartime service, and the many lives influenced by the Thames River and the city beside it. Suited for history enthusiasts, maritime admirers, and anyone curious about the stories along New London’s shoreline, this tour salutes a proud past that still resonates today.

Yu-Gi-Oh Weekly features organized play with a $5 entry. Prizing scales with turnout and is paid out in packs, with two OTS or UTP packs allocated per entry. The final event of each month switches to a win-a-box format, with details provided in a separate win-a-box event post.

Enjoy an inclusive Dungeons & Dragons campaign led by Stonington Pride and hosted at Bank Square Books. Seating is limited to seven adventurers plus the DM, and registration is required to reserve a spot. Participants should be at least 12 years old, and the game welcomes both first-timers and experienced players. The venue is wheelchair accessible.

At The UNITED Black Box Auditorium, The UNITED and Martin House Books present a conversation with #1 New York Times bestselling novelist Jodi Picoult about her new book, Hollow Bones. She will be in dialogue with bestselling author and Ocean House Author Series host Deborah Goodrich Royce. The novel follows Molly Fitzgerald, who leads the Rhode Island Department for Emergency Preparedness, and shifts between past and present to explore the risks we take to protect those we love, the narratives we build in the face of disaster, and the bonds between mothers and daughters. Attendees receive access to Hollow Bones two days before its official release. There is a single ticket type, General Admission (with book) at $42. Every ticket includes a signed copy of Hollow Bones and a professional photo with Jodi, and there will be opportunities to purchase additional copies of the new novel, selections from Jodi’s backlist, and Deborah’s books at the event. Jodi will not personalize books or sign additional copies. Picoult is the author of thirty novels, including By Any Other Name, Mad Honey with Jennifer Finney Boylan, Wish You Were Here, The Book of Two Ways, A Spark of Light, Small Great Things, Leaving Time, and My Sister’s Keeper, along with two young adult titles co-written with her daughter Samantha van Leer, Between the Lines and Off the Page. Deborah Goodrich Royce is the author of Best Boy, an Instant Indie Press Bestseller, and Reef Road, a national bestseller. She began her career on All My Children and in films, later served as a story editor at Miramax Films, and with her husband Chuck helped restore the Avon Theatre, Ocean House Hotel, Deer Mountain Inn, United Theatre, and Martin House Books.

This fundraiser supports the Colchester Soccer Club. A portion of sales during the event will directly benefit the club and its young athletes.

This introductory writing workshop is led by local author Kathy Swope. Attendees should bring their own writing supplies.

Bank Square Books hosts an author talk and signing with poet Jennifer Clarvoe centered on her collection Piano Piano. The book reflects on time, loss, and the capacity of art to reshape grief with gentleness, moving at an unhurried pace through moments both intimate and historical. Clarvoe ranges from a father's final days to the realm of archaeology, with poems sparked by ancient curse tablets found in Turkey. Everyday scenes and artifacts become sources of meaning, including a bee at the window, pottery mended long ago, the earliest Lumière films, and references to fibroid infarctions and pages torn from a fieldbook that are transformed into works of praise and remembrance. The collection considers how memory and craft help preserve what endures. Clarvoe is the author of Invisible Tender and Counter-Amores. Her honors include the Kate Tufts Prize, the Poets Out Loud Prize for her debut, a fellowship from the Sewanee Writers Conference, a residency at the James Merrill House, and the Rome Prize in Literature. She taught literature and creative writing at Kenyon College and lives in Somerville, MA with her husband, Tony Sigel.

At Westerly Town Beach Pavilion, a free three mile run on the sand marks the close of summer at low tide. Hosted by the Westerly Track Club with the Stavros family, the event honors Charlie Stavros, a runner who lost his life during a one mile road race in Westerly in May 1993. The course follows an out and back route, one and a half miles to the turnaround then returning along the beach. On-site check-in and bib pickup are available, and post-run food and refreshments are provided by the Stavros family. For details, contact info@westerlytrackclub.org or 401-447-1879.

Test your knowledge of the region at a New England themed trivia night at Waterford VFW & Auxiliary Post 6573 in Waterford, Connecticut. Teams of up to six can compete for prizes and bragging rights, and the game lasts about two hours. Admission is 15 dollars per person, with a 5 dollar discount for members of the mailing list, and entry includes a pasta and salad buffet. Tickets are limited. All proceeds support the Connecticut Yankee National Party, a political party focused on self-determination, integrity, democracy, empathy, and sustainability in government. Paid for by the Connecticut Yankee National Party, Treasurer Josh Kelly. This event is not endorsed or sponsored by the VFW, which is providing the space.

Explore New London’s past on a guided walk led by guides from the area. Trace a path through the historic core and by the water while hearing about the city’s maritime roots and the people who shaped it, from patriots and business builders to crews from the whaling trade. Suitable for both visitors and longtime locals, the tour offers stories, little known details, and standout moments that bring the city’s history to life.

Dreamfield Speedway hosts the second annual Guardrail Nationals, a two day season finale for the 1972oil Outlaw Predator Series. The event wraps up with the third Outlaw 50 Finale, featuring a $1,000 winner’s payout.

Fresca Tequila Bar & Grill hosts Chris Marolda with bites, beverages and music on offer.

Set out on a guided stroll through Downtown New London that brings to light lesser known tales tied to notable landmarks, the city’s seafaring heritage, moments linked to the Revolutionary War, and bits of local lore. Along the route, hear about figures and places including Nathan Hale, the Garde Arts Center, St. James Episcopal Church, and playwright Eugene O’Neill. The walk concludes at a local bar with one last hidden tale from New London’s past.

This charitable motorcycle ride begins with registration at Mike’s Famous Harley Davidson in New London, then continues as a group to Devil’s Hopyard Pavilion in East Haddam. The cost is $20 per person, and proceeds benefit an Iraq War Veteran facing Stage 4 cancer to support his family. An after-party at the pavilion features beer, raffles, and a 50/50. For additional details, contact a patch. Donations are also accepted via Venmo at @AIVMC-CT for those who cannot make the ride.

TSC Acoustic is back at Waterford Farmers Market with a live set blending acoustic rock, blues, country, pop, folk, reggae, and Irish pub tunes, performed on guitar and ukulele. The show is family friendly and will proceed rain or shine.

Explore the lives of those laid to rest at Nemadji Cemetery during a living history walk where costumed reenactors share true accounts of triumph, hardship, and pivotal moments from the people who helped shape the region. Children under 18 receive free admission. Please note that there is no restroom on site, and water will be available for purchase.

Celebrate Colchester, formerly known as the 57 Fest, brings the community together with local organizations and businesses, live stage performances, an auction, food trucks, friendly games and competitions, activities for kids, giveaways, and more. The celebration features an Americana theme honoring 250 America. Participation is free for vendors, community groups, and performers. Instead of a fee, participants are asked to donate an item or basket for the auction, with proceeds supporting summer day camp scholarships. Colchester organizations, vendors, and businesses are welcome to showcase their work, and booth space or center stage performance times can be arranged through Colchester Parks and Recreation at 860-537-7297 or parksandrec@colchesterct.gov. To maintain a family-friendly environment, campaigning and any content that could be considered inappropriate or controversial are not permitted. Electricity may be limited, and participants should plan to bring their own pop-up tent, table, and chairs.

Windjammer Surf Bar RI hosts Rick from The Storytellers for a beach day of live music with the sun, sand and surf of Misquamicut Beach in Westerly, Rhode Island.

This concert has been rescheduled and will now take place at Celebrate Colchester. Please note that there will be no vendors at this event.

Dr. G and the Believers return to the Lighthouse Inn in New London with a night of blues-fueled dancing. Expect high-energy music alongside quality food and cold drinks, creating a lively atmosphere for an evening on the dance floor.

Bar Bingo at Westerly Elks BPOE 678 is open to participants 21 and older. Non members will be charged an additional $5 to play. The kitchen will be open with grinders from Reale's. No outside food or beverages are allowed in the lodge, including water bottles, soda, coffees, or reusable cups. Coffee, bottled water, and soda will be available, along with a full service bar. Guests are encouraged to support the lodge by purchasing snacks and beverages during the event.

A walking tour in New London explores the city’s Black history shaped by centuries of seafaring and global connections. Beginning with the region’s Indigenous roots, the route traces how a colonial seaport came to include Native Americans, European settlers, enslaved Africans, West Indians, and free Black residents. The experience balances triumph and tragedy, from an early local law that barred Black property ownership and a county once holding one of the largest percentages of enslaved people in the American colonies, to defining moments such as the arrival of the Amistad survivors who launched a long and ultimately successful fight for freedom here. It also brings forward stories of the young Pequot girl who was executed, the woman who became the first Black applicant to Prudence Crandall’s Canterbury school and once lived in the city, the rise of a small abolitionist community, and the essential role of men of color who formed about 10 percent of every whaling crew during New London’s maritime boom. Participants uncover little-known chapters that illuminate how the city grew in wealth and prominence and how people of color helped shape its course.

The event features Rich Badowski Blues Band, Brandt Taylor, Dennis Cotton, Max Samson, and Jeff Bousfield.

A casual tailgate with the Elks features burgers, hot dogs, and lively music. The laid-back atmosphere centers on simple eats and upbeat tunes for a good time.

This Backstage Pass edition offers a behind the scenes look at The Crucible ahead of opening night. Attendees can watch portions of rehearsal, take part in conversations with the directors, cast and creative team, enjoy light snacks and refreshments, and build a deeper connection to the production. It welcomes theater lovers and curious minds who want more than just the performance. Season Ticket Holders receive a discount. Subscribers who did not receive the email with details can contact contact@granitetheatre.org.

This intermediate scent work class welcomes dog and handler teams that have already completed a UKC or AKC scent course or an NACSW nose work class and can reliably search for Birch indoors. Training focuses on locating both Birch and Anise across varied indoor setups, including work with containers, three dimensional arrangements, and elevated placements, along with exercises that feature both reachable and hard to access odor sources. Instruction highlights how to read canine body language and apply scent theory so the team can work with greater accuracy and confidence. Canine scent sports use target odors such as Birch, Anise, Clove, and Cypress to channel natural sniffing skills into a structured game that builds odor imprinting, efficient searching, clear indication, and strong communication when the source is found. These activities are widely accessible and suit many dogs, whether high energy, cautious, or physically limited, and only one dog works in the ring at a time.

This memorial golf tournament at Pequot Golf Club honors Michael Cavanaugh and supports ALS United CT research along with Sails Up 4 Cancer. The entry fee is $120 per player.

Bank Square Books hosts an author conversation and signing with David Borges, spotlighting his book UConn Basketball: An Illustrated Timeline. The book traces the men's program through six national championships across a 26 year span under three head coaches, the most titles of the 21st century, and a Big East championship total that leads the conference despite seven seasons outside it. It revisits the 2023 and 2024 repeat, the first in 17 years and only the third since the UCLA dynasties of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Readers will encounter championship teams, All American players, standout personalities, and defining games from Yankee Conference roots to Big East dominance. The timeline also highlights the program's NBA pipeline, with 17 lottery picks, 24 first round selections, and 40 total draft picks since Jim Calhoun took over in 1986, along with Hall of Fame figures Ray Allen as a player and Jim Calhoun as a coach. Borges has covered UConn men's basketball since 2007 for the New Haven Register and Hearst Connecticut Media, reporting on four national championships and five Final Four teams. Before that, he covered the 2004 Boston Red Sox team that ended an 86 year World Series drought. A Rhode Island native who has lived in Connecticut for nearly two decades with his wife and two children, he has earned multiple awards, including the National Sports Media Association's Connecticut Sportswriter of the Year in 2019.

Relive the 90s with Wannabe, a Spice Girls tribute, at the United Black Box Auditorium. Five Toronto friends step into the roles of Ginger, Baby, Scary, Posh, and Sporty with bold personalities, spot-on accents, eye-catching costumes, and towering platforms, creating a high-energy salute to friendship, creativity, and Girl Power. The set features the Spice Girls songs you know along with a few choice 90s favorites, and the crowd is encouraged to sing, dance, and make some noise. This performance is presented as a seated show in the Black Box auditorium. Ticket purchases are final and cannot be exchanged, and The United does not take responsibility for tickets bought through third-party sellers.

Enjoy a breakfast that supports programs at Veterans Rally Point. It takes place on the last Saturday of every month. Admission is $10 per person, and children under 5 eat free.

This garden walk at Mercer St Community Garden is FRESH New London’s annual fundraiser highlighting food systems and food justice efforts in the local community and across the state. The organization promotes a fair, sustainable, and resilient food future for New London that centers community, ensures dependable access to locally grown, culturally meaningful foods for all residents, and advances social equity.

Explore New London on a guided walking tour that brings the American Revolution to life, culminating in the day Benedict Arnold burned the city. Trace the story from early protests against British rule to the devastating attack that reshaped the community. Along the route, hear accounts of patriots, loyalists, and privateers, and learn about local hero Nathan Hale while visiting historic sites tied to the conflict.

Enjoy a free-admission performance paying tribute to The Cars.

UNITED Black Box Auditorium presents a special concert featuring Billy Gilman as he marks 25 years in music. The performance revisits the songs that first captured listeners, pairs them with beloved classics, and introduces powerful covers reshaped in his own style. Personal stories and soulful vocals tie it all together for an evening that celebrates memories and a career that continues to connect generations. Gilman first broke through in 2000 with the number one single One Voice, and his debut album of the same name went double platinum. He has sold 11 million albums and earned recognition from the American Music Awards, the Grammys, the ACMs, the CMAs, and the Billboard Music Awards. After early success and a slowdown while his voice matured, he reached a new audience as the 2016 runner-up on The Voice on Team Adam Levine. He remains active in country and bluegrass and is known for his support of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Fans can find his music on Spotify, and he is active on Instagram and Facebook. This is a fully seated event in the Black Box auditorium. Seating is guaranteed and selected at the time of purchase. Tickets are $35 for seated admission with fees included. Open to all ages. All sales are final with no refunds or exchanges, and the venue is not responsible for tickets purchased through third-party sellers.

RED LIGHT sets the tone for a feel-good night that clings to the spirit of summer with a hang-on-to-summer themed show. The night pairs dinner and drinks with dancing as the band delivers a tribute to party rock across modern country rock, classic rock, and pop rock. Recognized as Best Band in the 2025 New London Day Readers’ Choice awards and regularly counted among Connecticut’s top acts for more than a decade, the group features three lead vocalists, four-part harmonies, a powerful backbeat, and driving guitars. Expect an energetic performance that keeps the dance floor moving from the opening number to the last note... when the red light comes on, the celebration begins.

This guided stroll through downtown New London uncovers lesser known tales behind its landmarks, maritime heritage, and connections to the Revolutionary War, along with memorable bits of local lore. Highlights include stories about Nathan Hale, the Garde Arts Center, St. James Episcopal Church, and playwright Eugene O'Neill. The walk concludes at a local bar with a final story linked to the city's colorful past.

Donations for the Westerly Armory will be accepted. Attendees who wish to contribute can do so during the event.

The event at Mel's Downtown Creamery Colchester offers a sweet way to support the Bacon Academy Fencing Team. Guests can enjoy treats while a share of sales helps fund equipment and uniforms for the program. Team members will be available to talk about the sport, including safety gear and the different weapons. If the weather cooperates, there will be demo bouts.

An open mic celebrating Juneteenth features Phil C. Alexander, a spoken word artist and storyteller who approaches poetry as a calling. He aims to move audiences emotionally before prompting thought, blending personal truths with social reflection through rhythm and vulnerability to spark conversation and connection. His work uses language to shed light on beauty, struggle, and the shared humanity that ties people together. Each piece is crafted as both a reflection and an amplifier, lifting untold stories and unspoken feelings, with the hope that someone recognizes themselves in his words and chooses to heal, question, or dream in a new way. To be added to the open mic list, contact @AnUrbanNerd on Facebook or Instagram.

Randy Travis: The More Life Tour brings the member of the Country Music Hall of Fame back to the stage with vocalist James Dupré, his co-star in The Price. Travis’s longtime touring band returns for this run, including Steve Hinson, David Johnson, Lance Dary, Bill Cook, Joe Van Dyke, and Herb Shucher, with tour manager Jeff Davis also back on the team. It is their first time on the road together since before Travis’s 2013 stroke. The performance focuses on Dupré and the band as they present all 16 of Travis’s number one hits, including “On The Other Hand,” “Forever and Ever, Amen,” and “Three Wooden Crosses.” Randy Travis will make a special appearance, connecting with the audience and taking part in the program, but he will not be singing. VIP passes will be available at the show for a meet and greet with him. Mary and Randy Travis express excitement about returning to the road and point to Dupré as the right voice to share these songs live. A longtime Grand Ole Opry star, Travis has also recently introduced two new tracks created with advanced technology, “Where That Came From” and “Horses in Heaven.”

These guided walks trace New London’s seafaring roots and the people who shaped the city. Led by local guides, the route moves through historic neighborhoods and along the waterfront, sharing stories of whalers, figures from the Revolution, and enterprising residents who helped build the community. The experience offers both newcomers and longtime locals fresh insights, surprising details, and memorable glimpses into the city’s character.

Part of Norwich’s America 250 commemoration, this talk traces how the Slater family influenced Greeneville, propelled Norwich’s industrial expansion, and shaped the community that formed around it. Dayne Rugh, Director of the Slater Memorial Museum, leads an exploration of how the Industrial Revolution changed Norwich and the lasting effects on the city and its people. The program is hosted at Hotel Callista, once the home of industrialist John Fox Slater, creating a direct link to the history being discussed. Light refreshments will be available, and admission is free to the public. Visitors can expand the experience with an overnight stay at Hotel Callista, a ride on the Historic Greeneville Trolley Tour, and time to discover Norwich’s restaurants, downtown, and waterfront.

Seaside Shadows Haunted History Tours leads a lantern lit ghost walk through Downtown Westerly, tracing the banks of the Pawcatuck River after dark. Over a one hour and forty-five minute guided route, the tour shares documented tales of deadly shipwrecks, rumored pirate gold, strange lights, and accounts of real witches, weaving in eerie folklore and colonial era legends. Stories from the town’s industrial past appear as well, including the disturbing account of two souls bound to a single body, along with reports of lingering spirits tied to long standing downtown buildings. The path doubles as a scenic nighttime stroll by the water, pairing local history with an atmosphere of mystery. Tours operate rain or shine, with no refunds for rainy weather unless the organizer cancels. Cameras are welcome, and pets are not permitted. Tickets are priced between $30 and $35 per person. The meeting point is in Downtown Westerly, with exact instructions provided after booking. For questions, use the organizer’s website chat or email rather than calling.

Safely clear out household hazardous materials and take advantage of on-site document shredding at this no-cost collection hosted at Griswold Public Works. Households in the following participating communities can use this service free of charge: Bozrah, Colchester, East Haddam, East Lyme, Franklin, Griswold, Groton, Lebanon, Ledyard, Lisbon, Montville, New London, North Stonington, Norwich, Preston, Salem, Sterling, Stonington, Sprague, Voluntown, and Waterford. This collection is one of nine offered each year for eligible households from any of the listed communities.

Presented by the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce Health & Wellness Committee, this free community festival celebrates healthy living, learning, and family fun while highlighting local businesses, healthcare organizations, nonprofits, and community resources. Highlights include free health screenings, food trucks, a car show, a spin-a-thon, local vendors and crafters, therapy animals, dog adoptions, kids activities with face painting, live entertainment, giveaways, and raffles. Applications are being accepted for vendors and crafters, health and wellness organizations, community businesses, sponsors, and volunteers. Presenting sponsors are Mohegan Tribe and Mohegan Sun, with support from the Mohegan Tribal Health Department, Backus Hospital, Norwichtown Rehabilitation & Care Center, and the CT State Three Rivers Community College Nursing Program.

Returning for its second year, this Haunted Hayride offers a night of hair-raising fun and eerie adventures. Tickets are on sale, and the organizers are seeking volunteers, participants for live scenes, and sponsors to help bring the experience to life.

A raffle centered on meat offers a straightforward way to play. For $20, participants receive chances across 20 separate games.

The psychedelic soul band Monophonics returns to Westerly for a high-energy night of live music at Knick Music Lab. This all-ages concert showcases their blend of timeless heavy soul with the warm textures of psychedelic rock, a sound they have refined since 2012 through carefully crafted songs and an energetic stage presence. Fronted by vocalist and keyboardist Kelly Finnigan, the group features drummer Austin Bohlman, Max Ramey on bass, Aquilles Magaña on guitar, and a horn section led by Ryan Scott on trumpet with Jason Cressey on trombone. Their touring resume spans dozens of countries with sold-out appearances in cities including London, New York City, Athens, Los Angeles, Istanbul, San Francisco, Amsterdam, and Paris, delivering performances that spotlight intimate songwriting and soulful musicianship. Sage Motel, their fifth studio album released in 2022 on Colemine Records, continues their signature psychedelic soul approach and has drawn recognition from NPR Music, KCRW, BBC, and Shindig, reaching millions of listeners online and selling thousands of records worldwide. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 on the day of the show, inclusive of fees. This is a general admission event, and all ticket sales are non-refundable and non-exchangeable. Pre-packaged snacks and soft drinks will be available, along with a limited bar offering pre-packaged beers, wines, and canned cocktails. The United does not accept liability for tickets purchased from third-party sellers.

Take a walking tour that reveals New London’s quirky side through unexpected trivia, hidden history, and fun facts that shaped the Whaling City. Hear about famous names and unusual happenings, and uncover the stories tucked into everyday places that most people pass by. One of the highlights answers a favorite teaser... which New London restaurant was Al Capone known to favor.

Celebrate the fun loving spirit of Three's Company with a Mrs. Roper themed romp and caftan crawl in downtown Westerly-Pawcatuck. Dress in your boldest caftan or muumuu, add a curly or red wig and plenty of chunky or costume jewelry, then take to the streets as your best Mrs. Roper. The public is encouraged to enjoy food and drinks, live music, and shopping throughout downtown Westerly while honoring this beloved 70s icon. Fans channeling Stanley, Chrissy, and Janet are welcome as part of the playful tribute.

Luxe CT: Velvet Mills to Modern Runways is an exhibition at Mystic Museum of Art that looks at how textiles from southeastern Connecticut have shaped ideas of luxury across centuries. Rooted in the region’s historic velvet industry, it follows textile traditions from the precolonial era to today and considers how craftsmanship, industry, and design intertwine with culture. In collaboration with Historic Stonington, the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center, Mystic Seaport Museum, and Studio Art Quilt Associates, CT Region, the exhibition brings together historic and contemporary beadwork, embroidery, quilts, velvet, and fashion drawn from loans and the museum’s collection. It examines luxury through the lenses of labor, immigration, identity, and innovation, and spotlights designers with Connecticut ties including Xarea Lockhart, Toriana Sauro, Christian Siriano, and Peter Som. Public programs and workshops will run throughout the exhibition. Admission is $12 general, $10 for New London County residents, seniors, and students, and free for members, youth 17 and under, and military including active and veterans.

Bank Square Books presents an author talk and signing with Lisa Hall Brownell centered on her book Vee's Bracelet. The story opens at the start of the Great Depression, when Vee Haines, the daughter of a Midwest banker, takes her father’s luxury car and heads west. Stranded on the edge of the Dust Bowl in northern New Mexico, she struggles to survive in a place called Starve-Out that is not on any map, raising a son on her own. Decades later in the 2010s, her family discovers that the silver bracelet she has worn for most of her life holds the key to a profound love and a long-kept secret, and her grandson sets out to uncover the truth. Lisa Hall Brownell is also the author of the historical novel Gallows Road from Elm Grove Press in 2022. She has presented to many book clubs, libraries, and other groups. A graduate of Brown University, she divides her time between coastal Connecticut and the mountains of western Maine. If you cannot attend but still want a signed copy, the book can be purchased by phone or in person, and you can include your signing and personalization preferences in the order comments. Requests will be accommodated when possible. RSVP is requested.

Savor food and beverages as music sets the mood for dancing at Lighthouse Inn.

Arthur Miller's The Crucible revisits Salem as paranoia spreads and accusations mount. Set during the witch trials, it follows layered characters wrestling with conscience while fear, rumor, and betrayal fracture a community. The story remains timely, probing truth, moral courage, and the price of integrity when pressure builds. It offers a tense, thought-provoking portrait of the human spirit in a time of upheaval.

Stroll through Downtown New London on a guided walking tour that reveals lesser known tales behind notable landmarks. Along the way, explore the city’s maritime heritage, connections to the Revolutionary War, and colorful local legends. Hear stories tied to Nathan Hale, the Garde Arts Center, St. James Episcopal Church, and the life of playwright Eugene O’Neill. The experience concludes at a neighborhood bar, where one final tale brings New London’s past into focus.

Rick from The Storytellers brings a live set to Windjammer Surf Bar RI, setting the tone for a relaxed beach experience with sunshine, sand, and surf at Misquamicut Beach in Westerly. Expect an easygoing coastal atmosphere and music that pairs well with the shoreline backdrop.

Next Stop Comedy brings a stand-up showcase to Tapped Apple Cidery & Winery, featuring a fresh roster of comedians at each show, including performers with television appearances and popular podcast credits.

Angelz Fury unleashes a surge of 80s metal at Windjammer Surf Bar, stacked with huge sing-along hooks, searing guitar solos, and beach bar party energy that lands with the force of the surf. Frontwoman Tina Valenti leads the charge as this high energy show turns the boardwalk venue into a rock arena bathed in sunset light, built for belting the choruses, raising horns, and letting the night roll on well past the final wave.

Gobo, Red, Mokey, Wembley, and Boober set out to recover the Celebration Stone, a legendary Fraggle treasure said to unite everyone for the greatest party ever. Their quest leads through newly discovered caves in Fraggle Rock and beyond, where unexpected magic appears and teamwork becomes the key to reuniting the stone’s scattered pieces. The adventure wonders whether they can restore the artifact and whether they will find something even more heartfelt along the way. Inspired by the Emy-winning Apple TV series, this family-friendly stage production mixes comedy, dancing, and music in the spirit of the Jim Henson Company. It features colorful walkaround versions of the Fraggles, new puppet portrayals of the hardworking Doozers, a visit from a giant Gorg, and original puppet creature friends created by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. With fan-favorite songs and striking visual effects, the show invites audiences on a lively, nostalgia-filled return to Fraggle Rock. Written and directed by John Tartaglia, known for Avenue Q, Shrek the Musical, and Stephen Schwartz’s The Secret Silk, this first live stage show brings immersive in-theater effects, playful audience interaction, touching moments, and lovable new characters. It is crafted for families with young first-time theatergoers and for lifelong Fraggle Rock fans who remain young at heart.

Now in its second year, the Michelle Colucci Pinto Memorial Scholarship Fund Golf Tournament is hosted by the Misquamicut Club. Registration is $600 for an individual golfer or $2,200 for a team of four. For details or to register, email mcpscholarshipfund@gmail.com.

Dr. G and the Believers bring a lively, dance-ready blues set to Steak Loft in Mystic, blending swing, funk, and feel-good grooves. Enjoy the music with flavorful food and chilled drinks from the restaurant for an easy way to kick off the weekend. Expect an upbeat atmosphere and plenty of fun.

Experience a bustling marketplace where skilled artisans and makers share handmade creations, flavorful local food is served, and live entertainment sets the tone. More than 150 vendors will be spread across multiple buildings, with a newly added building expanding the shopping and browsing experience. Explore pottery, woodworking, glass art, textiles, home decor, jewelry, and other thoughtfully crafted goods, then enjoy baked treats, fudge, nuts, specialty foods, and beverages. Food trucks will be on site both days, and local wines will be available. Admission includes a weekend pass bracelet so you can come back throughout the weekend. Live music and outdoor tents add to the festive atmosphere. Cash is recommended for the smoothest experience, and only service dogs are permitted inside buildings.

3HL presents a full-band unplugged acoustic set at the 5th Annual Apple Festival at Olde Mistick Village, performing a blend of originals and cover songs.

Now in its fifth year, this fall festival celebrates the season with vendors offering arts and crafts, specialty hand-knit items, and plenty of autumn flavors like maple, pumpkin, apple, and caramel. Expect a welcoming atmosphere with free family fun and opportunities to browse, taste, and enjoy the best of fall.

Costumed paddlers take to the Mystic River for the eighth annual Halloween-themed paddle and coat drive. Wear your favorite witchy or Halloween outfit and head out in your own kayak, paddleboard, canoe, or pedal kayak. This is for experienced paddlers only, and each participant must bring a personal flotation device, paddle, and leash because no rentals are available. Advance registration is required, there are no walk-up or same-day signups, and registration closes the night before. The cost is $25 per person. Please bring a new or gently used coat to support the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center. After the paddle, a BBQ with a DJ is planned, and participants are welcome to bring a side dish or snack. Costumes will be judged with prizes for the top three, and a registration link will be available soon. A rain date is planned.

Bar Bingo at Westerly Elks BPOE 678 welcomes players who are 21 and older. Non-members will be charged an additional $5 to participate. The kitchen will be open with grinders from Reale's. Outside food and beverages are not permitted in the lodge, including water bottles, soda, coffee, and reusable cups. Coffee, bottled water, soda, and a full service bar will be available, and attendees are encouraged to purchase snacks and drinks during the event.

Mystic Aquarium’s Run Walk for the Penguins returns at Mystic Aquarium with a choice of a 5K run or a 2 mile walk, and each step supports the aquarium’s work to protect critically endangered African penguins. Registration includes admission to the aquarium on race day. Before the start, expect appearances by some African penguins, music from 107.7, breakfast burritos from a local food truck, free stretch sessions with Stretch Zone Mystic, and non-alcoholic beer from Athletic Brewing Company. A Kids Fun Run, original penguin artwork awarded to top finishers and fundraisers, and family friendly activities create a morning filled with penguin themed fun for runners and walkers alike.

A community cookout brings neighbors, friends, and families together for fellowship, good food, and laughter. The menu includes burgers and hot dogs, and kids can jump and play in inflatable bounce houses. It is a relaxed way to connect, unwind, and enjoy time together as a community. Everyone is welcome.

An indoor Halloween celebration fills the Port and Starboard Ballroom at Ocean Beach Park with family-friendly activities. Children can trick or treat among 50 local crafters and vendors, enjoy live performances, and take part in costume contests. Free kids activity tables offer creative fun for the whole family. New this year, a Kid Entrepreneur Area highlights businesses run by kids.

At Twisted Dog Yoga, this third annual community yoga class honors Breast Cancer Awareness Month and supports the Susan G. Komen Foundation. The session is co-taught by several instructors. Pink attire and bringing friends are encouraged, and after the practice there will be refreshments with a pink theme and raffles. Admission is by donation, with all proceeds contributed to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Bank Square Books hosts an author talk and book signing with Brittany Perham, highlighting her memoir Executrix. The conversation centers on a family puzzle that sets the story in motion, as Perham confronts why a father from whom she had long been estranged would revise his will to name her executor shortly before his death. The book follows the practical work of closing a debt-heavy estate, translated through the language of foreclosure proceedings, tax audits, and medical records. Alongside that ledger, the writer’s account turns scattered facts and memories into narrative, raising questions about living with alcoholism in the family, making sense of fragments and gaps, and what truth can mean in nonfiction. With moments of wit, a compassionate tone, and a bold structure, the memoir examines both hidden family histories and the very form of memoir itself. Perham is the author of Double Portrait, winner of the Barnard Women Poets Prize, and The Curiosities, and she collaborated with Kim Addonizio on The Night Could Go in Either Direction. Her poetry, fiction, and nonfiction have appeared in venues such as Poetry, Prairie Schooner, Gulf Coast, Poetry Society of America, and The San Francisco Chronicle. Her work has been supported by the Civitella Ranieri Foundation, Hemingway House, the James Merrill House Foundation, Vermont Studio Center, the Wallace Stegner Fellowship Program, and Yaddo. She lives in San Francisco.

An annual trunk or treat features a treat truck on site, serving cool scooped treats. Visit the truck for trick or treating and enjoy a sweet treat while it is there.

Enjoy music from Chris Marolda at Fresca Tequila Bar & Grill, paired with food and drinks.

Iconic singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega brings her Flying with Angels tour to the UNITED Black Box Auditorium in Westerly for a career-spanning performance featuring favorites like “Tom’s Diner,” “Luka,” and “Marlene On The Wall,” alongside songs from her latest album, Flying with Angels, released in May 2025 to strong critical praise. She will be joined by longtime guitarist Gerry Leonard and cellist Stephanie Winters. Coverage from outlets such as Rolling Stone, Stereogum, Finding Connecticut, and Patch has highlighted her clear, observant voice, enduring creativity, and intimate storytelling on stage. All ages are welcome. This is a fully seated event in the Black Box auditorium. Standard tickets are priced at $54 to $65, inclusive of fees. VIP options range from $110 to $195. The Soundcheck VIP Experience includes seating within the first five rows, a visit to the soundcheck and a Q&A, plus an autographed tour poster, a VIP laminate, and a commemorative ticket, with activities taking place before the show and details and timing subject to change. The Premium Package offers seating within the first ten rows along with an autographed poster and a commemorative ticket, with details subject to change. All tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable, and the UNITED is not liable for tickets purchased through third-party sellers.

A spooky Halloween party fundraiser takes place at Mel's Downtown Creamery Colchester in support of the CES PTO. Enjoy sweet treats in a festive setting where costumes are welcome but not required. Halloween games, treats, and crafts will be on hand for extra fun, and the creamery will donate a portion of all sales to benefit the CES PTO.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast while helping fund programs at Veterans Rally Point. Admission is $10 per person, and children under 5 eat at no cost. This recurring event is held on the last Saturday of each month.

Take to the Mystic River for a paddle race featuring two distances, a 3 mile short course for recreational participants and a 5 mile route for more competitive racers. Eligible craft include SUP and prone boards, surf skis, C1 and C2 canoes, and K1 and K2 kayaks. The entry fee is $49 and advance sign-up is required, as same day registration is not available. Register early to secure a race T-shirt. Paddlers of all experience levels are welcome. After crossing the finish line, stick around for a barbecue with a DJ. Prizes include $50 for the winner, with gift cards and swag from local businesses for second and third place. This event serves as the final race of the season and is convenient to the LI Ferry.

The Tarzan Brown road race is planned for Downtown Mystic, Connecticut. More information about the event will be announced.

Take part in a Meat Raffle featuring 20 separate games. The cost is $20 and gives you chances in every game.

Fusion is back for the annual fundraiser benefiting Alewife Cove. This gathering centers on raising support for the cove and includes a returning appearance by Fusion.

Browse work from dozens of local crafters, featuring handmade only items in a variety of styles. Discover beautiful, unique pieces created by local artisans, ideal for gifts or a personal treat. The event takes place indoors in the Port and Starboard Ballroom at Ocean Beach. Parking and admission are free.

Couples planning their wedding can explore the Hilton and meet a range of local professionals at the Mystic Wedding Expo. Exhibitors include Hilton Mystic, Earth & Heart, First World Real Estate, Jessica's Kitchen, LLC, M.D. Entertainment & Uplighting, Mary Kay Beauty - Donna Andrea-Ennis Independent Consultant, Never Enough Baks Shop, Petonito’s Pastry And Cupcake Shoppe, Renewal by Andersen, Rich Productions, Shuck Yeah Oysters, Sunrise Floral Creations, Tessa’s Pastries, The Casual Reply, The Collins Center, and The Stately Rose Beauty Studio. Attendees can tour the venue, gather ideas, and connect with services for beauty, florals, entertainment, food and desserts, real estate, and more to support every step of planning.

Curious about what happens before the curtain rises? The Backstage Pass Series offers an insider look at the magic behind the productions and welcomes anyone interested in learning more about the show. This edition focuses on The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, offering a behind-the-scenes experience that reveals how the story takes shape before opening night. Expect glimpses of rehearsal, conversations with the directors, cast, and creative team, and light snacks and refreshments. The experience is designed to help participants feel more connected to the production. Season Ticket Holders receive a discount, and subscribers who did not receive the email with details can contact contact@granitetheatre.org.

Dr. G and the Believers return to Lighthouse Inn in New London with a blues dance party filled with up-tempo rhythms that swing and bring plenty of funk, made for hip-shaking. Food and well crafted cocktails complement the music. A spirited night of blues is in store.

This event features food and drinks, with music and dancing to the Burden of Proof Band.

Bank Square Books hosts a weekend signing with authors Kim Harrington and Ashley Cowan, spotlighting their festive romance novels. Harrington will be signing A Killer for Christmas, a contemporary holiday romance with a murderous twist set in Christmasville, Maine. After losing her job and boyfriend, Kelsey Hendricks returns to the only place she has felt happy and takes a role as the town’s social media manager. With two suitors and a picture-perfect setting, her life looks like a Christmas movie until a string of deaths turns the season dark. Determined to restore cheer before tourists start canceling, Kelsey begins to investigate, blending cozy winter vibes with suspense. This is Harrington’s debut adult mystery from Crooked Lane Books. Cowan will sign Not Another Christmas Movie, a rom-com where thirty-something Annie Meyers nods off and wakes inside a made-for-TV holiday film version of her hometown. Her former not-quite boyfriend, Chris, is now a widowed tree farm owner, and her once-dorky neighbor, Nick, is unexpectedly charming. To find a way out, Annie and Nick lean into classic romantic tropes, planning to pair Annie with Chris and Nick with his childhood sweetheart, Bailey. After hoedowns, ice skating, and cookie-baking montages, Annie starts to suspect the right match might be closer than she expected. The signing highlights holiday tales filled with romance, humor, and a touch of danger.

Bingo participants must be 21 or older. Non members will be charged an additional 5 dollars to play. The kitchen will be open and serving grinders from Reale's. Outside food or drinks are not permitted. Coffee, bottled water, and soda are available, along with a full service bar. Please plan to purchase snacks and beverages at the lodge. For clarity, no outside water bottles, sodas, coffees, or reusable cups are allowed.

Make a heroic difference at this blood drive. Donate a pint of blood and receive a pint of ice cream as a thank you, a simple exchange that turns generosity into a sweet treat. A straightforward way to help and enjoy a little reward in return.

Chris Marolda brings the tunes to Fresca Tequila Bar & Grill, paired with food and drinks.

Enjoy pizza and hot chocolate before making your way downtown to welcome Santa. Savor a warm treat, then head out to greet his arrival.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever brings a whirlwind of holiday humor as the troublemaking Herdman children seize control of the community’s Christmas play. Expect comic chaos, surprising turns, and sincere moments that celebrate the heart of the season. This family friendly production shows how the least likely participants can make the holidays shine.