CT River Valley Guide 2024 by dayshorepublishing

Deep River Ancient Muster. Photo by Susan Lambert/The Courier

Welcome

It is a pleasure to welcome you to the beautiful Connecticut River Valley. Whether you are a long-time resident or have recently move d in, we are thrilled to have you in our vibrant and diverse community. Located on both sides of the Connecticut River, Essex, Chester, and Deep River are little treasures of an area.

The Connecticut River Valley is known for its natural beauty, history, and culture. The river winding through the region provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities and serene living.

Essex, Chester, and Deep River are towns steeped in history. Their buildings reflect the deep roots of early American settlement, and there are many opportunities to explore and appreciate this history.

They are also hubs of cultural and artistic expression. The Ivoryton Theater and the Connecticut River Museum provide opportunities to explore and appreciate the history and culture. Farmers markets, festivals, and fairs celebrate the local artisans and farmers who contribute to the community’s character and livelihoods.

We encourage you to get involved in local organizations, volunteer opportunities, and community events to make meaningful connections and contribute to the vibrant life of the Connecticut River Valley.

We hope you will take the time to explore all the Connecticut River Valley offers.

Leif Nilsson: Leif Nilsson of Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio & Gallery paints outside his studio during the Sunday Market in Chester on Oct. 8, 2023.

Photo by Victoria Fennell/The Courier

Celebrating Years 75

of the

Steering Through Time: SELDEN III FERRY

By Alicia Gomez

The Selden III glides gracefully through the Connecticut River as the morning mist lifts off the water.

For 75 years, this iconic ferry has not only bridged the gap across the river but has connected countless lives from all over the world. Connecting eager tourists and local commuters, the Selden III has become a cherished symbol of the Connecticut River Valley’s enduring community spirit. We celebrate the 75th anniversary of a living piece of history that has navigated through decades of change, currently steered by the experienced hands of its dedicated captain, John F. Kennedy.

Kennedy needn’t turn the ferry around during his route to and from Chester and Hadlyme; it traverses both ends of the river using its double diesel engines, propellers, and rudders. This efficient design allows for smooth and continuous operation, making the journey reliable and straightforward. In fact, throughout Kennedy’s 30 years of service to the Selden III, the boat has rarely had issues, Kennedy says.

“The boat is very stable, even in rough weather,” Kennedy says.

The local community has relied on the Chester-Hadlyme route for generations. Jonathan Warner, a local farmer, started the first Chester-Hadlyme ferry route across the river in 1769. Although Warner wanted to start the ferry to raise his cattle on the other side of the river, Kennedy suspects from the start that the purpose of the ferry route was to help the Continental Army by transporting supplies during the Revolutionary War.

Although the years have come and gone, the Selden III still serves a similar purpose 75 years later.

“Even if they planned it for the Revolutionary War, it still carries supplies up and down this route… In fact, even years later, during World War I, World War II, and the Civil War, supplies have come across this boat,” said Kennedy. “And also, the regulars have a need to get across. So, it’s always been a mixture of goods, supplies, general public transportation, and any other military aspect of it.”

Selden III on the Connecticut River. Courtesy of John. F. Kennedy

The Seldom III was built right after World War II and commissioned by the State of Connecticut. Since then, it has been cared for using the combined efforts of the Connecticut Department of Transportation and the local community.

“It’s just like anything else; if you take care of it, it will last forever. And we do that with this boat. We constantly take care of this boat,” Kennedy says.

Kennedy says the local community is a dedicated support group for the ferry. The ferry transports passengers and cars. At about 87 tons, it can carry eight to nine cars and up to 49 passengers at a time, according to Connecticut’s official state website. Locals use it to cross the river in three minutes, which would otherwise take them half an hour to get around.

“Whenever there is any kind of discussion about how the ferry’s doing, the community is very vocal in saying, ‘We love the ferry,’” Kennedy says.

This very community is the very thing that drives Kennedy every day as he captains the boat.

“What makes this job so interesting is the people that come across here,” Kennedy says.

One of Kennedy’s most memorable passengers was a man who rode a bicycle from Canada to the ferry. He was using the Selden III to reach a New York City freight ship to his ultimate destination—Russia.

“He had nothing but the clothes on his back,” Kennedy said. “He didn’t even have any money.” Kennedy paid for his trip to get across the river. Twenty-five years later, he wonders about his journey.

Government

n CHESTER TOWN HALL

First Selectman Cindy Lignar

203 Middlesex Avenue, Chester 860-526-0013 chesterct.org

Emergency call 9-1-1 Police 860-526-0013, ext. 205 or 860-526-3605 Chester Hose Company 860-526-0019

n DEEP RIVER TOWN HALL

First Selectman Carol Doak-Jones

174 Main Street, Deep River 860-526-6020 deepriverct.us

Emergency call 9-1-1 Police 860-526-6027 Deep River Fire Department 860-526-6042

n ESSEX TOWN HALL

First Selectman Norman Needleman 29 West Avenue, Essex 860-767-4340 essexct.gov

Emergency call 9-1-1 Police 860-767-1054 Essex Fire Co. 860-767-1258

Clothing, Gifts, & More

n CHESTER

Acoustic Music, 4 Maple Street

Amber & Lowell, 1 North Main Street

Blackkat Leather, 36 Main Street

Chester Bottle Shop, 191 Middlesex Avenue

Chester Package Store, 1 North Main Street

Dina Varano Gallery, 27 North Main Street

Lark, 4 Water Street

Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio & Gallery, 1 Spring Street

Lori Warner Studio/Gallery, 21 Main Street

The Little Shop, 1 Main Street

The Space Gallery, 1 Main Street

The Studio, 5 West Main Street

The Wayfinder Society, 14 Main Street

West Main Street Studio, 1 West Main Street

n DEEP RIVER

Acer Gardens, 447 Winthrop Road

Adam’s Hometown Market, 193 Main Street

Alan James Art Gallery, 112 Main Street

Anchor & Compass, 163 Main Street

Ashleigh’s Garden, 110 Elm Street

Bennett’s Books, 171 Main Street

Brick & Mortar, 114 Main Street

Celebrations, 161 Main Street

Compass Rose, 4 River Street

Deep River Hardware, 4 Elm Street

Deep River Home, 11 Union Street

Deep River Jewelry Design, 381 Main Street

Deep River Market, 383 Main Street

Fine Line Tattoo, 91 Main Street

G’s Treasures, 156 Main Street

High St. Antiques, 88 High Street

Pet’s Choice, 155 Main Street

Pandemonium Thrift Shop, 112 West Elm Street

Pondside Kitchens & Hearth, 202 Main Street

RiverFire Glass, 500 Main Street

Shell & Bee Studio, 500 Main Street

Shore Discount Liquors, 211 Main Street

SoMA, Gift Shop, 500 Main Street

Comics & Coffee, 497 Winthrop Road

Walgreens, 180 Main Street

Essex Garden Club May Market: Volunteer Randy Stafford loads large hostas into the back of a customer’s car on May 11, 2023 during the Essex Garden Club’s May Market sale. The Essex Garden Club’s May Market has been a yearly tradition for over 70 years, as well as being the club’s most important fundraising event each year.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Courier

Antiques Valley Farm, 134 Saybrook Road, Essex

Blissful Beauty Day Spa, 6 Wildwood Medical Center, Essex

Chequer Interiors, 11 Main Street, Essex

Connecticut River Artisans, 55 Main Street, Essex

Connecticut River Museum-Gift Shop, 67 Main Street, Essex

Cortland Park, 1 Main Street, Essex

Covet Bridal, 3 South Main Street, Essex

DePaula Jewelers, 23 Main Street, Essex

Eliza B & Leather Man Ltd. Store, 59 Plains Road, Essex

Emmy’s On Main, 45 Main Street, Essex

Essex Duck, 51 Main Street, Essex

Essex Flower & Gift Shop, 136 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Essex Hardware Co., 3 Main Street, Centerbrook

Essex Pottery, 1 North Main Street, Essex

Essex Mercantile, 11 Main Street, Essex

Essex Wine & Spirits, 125 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Gather, 104 Main Street, Ivoryton

Grace & Haven, 23B Main Street, Essex

Gracie’s Corner Gifts, 43 Main Street, Essex

Goods & Curiosities

Griswold Inn Store, 47 Main Street, Essex

Haystacks, 21 Main Street, Essex

House of the Triple Moon, 1 Main Street, Essex

J. Alden Clothiers Mens & Women’s, 17 Main Street, Essex

J.McLaughlin, 3 Main Street, Essex

Joy Chocolates, 5 North Main, Essex

Mama’s Gardens Skin Care, 1 North Main Street, Essex

Nutmeg Pharmacy, 40 Main Street, Centerbrook

Old Beautiful Antiques & Art, 2 Main Street, Essex

One North Main, 1 Main Street, Essex

Port + Willow, 10 Main Street, Essex

Pough Interiors, 8 Main Street, Essex

Puck’s Books, 55 Main Street, Essex

Riggio’s Garden Center, 136 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Spectrum Art Gallery & Artisan Store, 61 Main Street, Essex Talbots, 1 Essex Square, Essex

That’s the Spirit Shoppe, 18 Plains Road, Essex

The RiverLane, 7 Main Street, Essex

Toys Ahoy!, 43 Main Street, Essex

Verdigris Gallery, 1 North Main Street, Essex

Walgreens, 125 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Weekend Kitchen, 15 Main Street, Essex

Winsupply of Essex, 186 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Valley Eats

n CHESTER

Brushmill by the Waterfall, 129 West Main Street

Chester Hometown Market, 56 CT-154

Grano Arso, 6 Main Street

Honeycone Craft Ice Cream, 29 Main Street

Little House Brewing Company, 16 Main Street

Marker 37, 72 Railroad Avenue

Moravela’s Pizzeria, 139 Middlesex Turnpike

Otto, 69 Main Street

Pattaconk 1850 Bar & Grille, 33 Main Street

River Tavern, 23 Main Street

Rustica Ristorante,189 Middlesex Turnpike

Simon’s Marketplace, 17 Main Street

Thai Riverside, 4 Water Street

The Village Bistro, 59 Main Street

The Villager, 13 Main Street

The Wheatmarket, 4 Water Street

n DEEP RIVER

Apizza Grande, 497 Winthrop Road

Chambo’s Italian Deli, 83 Main Street

Deep River Ice, 169 Main Street

Deep River Pizza, 156 main street

Deep River Roasters, 159 Main Street

Dunkin’, 246 Main Street

Eight Mile Meadow Bakery, 2 Kirtland Street

Hally Jo’s Corner Restaurant, 165 Main Street

High Nine Brewing Company, 6 Winter Avenue

Landing & Main, 77 Main Street

The Nest, 162 Main Street

Pizzeria Da Vinci, 181 Main Street

Red House, 158 Main Street

Rusty Rail Tavern, 439B Main Street

Whistle Stop Cafe, 108 Main Street

n ESSEX, CENTERBROOK, & IVORYTON

Black Seal, 15 Main Street, Essex

Blue Hound Cookery & Taproom, 107 Main Street, Ivoryton

Brickside Pizza, 104 Main Street, Ivoryton

Bun on the Run, 24 Main Street, Centerbrook

Centerbrook Pizza, 10 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Cheese Shop of Centerbrook, 33 Main Street, Centerbrook

Chocolate Geeks, 49 Main Street, Essex

Cliff’s Quality Meats, 88 Plains Road, Centerbrook

Coastal Cooking Co., 9 Novelty Lane, Essex

Cooked, 5 Main Street, Centerbrook

Lobster Bake: Ely Clark cracks lobsters at the Essex Lions Club’s annual Lobster Bake on Aug. 6, 2022.

Photo by Wesley Bunnell/The Courier

Valley Eats

Copper Beech Inn, 46 Main Street, Ivoryton

Deep River Roasters, 6 Main Street, Centerbrook

Essex Chocolates, 24 Westbrook Road, Suite 101, Centerbrook

Essex Coffee and Tea Company, 51 Main Street, Essex

Essex Mail Mart, 33 Main Street, Centerbrook

Grumpy Caddy, 23 Saybrook Road Essex

Hong Kong Chinese Take Out, 125 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Ivoryton Tavern & Cafe, 8 Summit Street, Ivoryton

Noah’s, 63 Main Street, Essex

Olive Oyl’s Carry Out Cuisine, 77 Main Street, Essex

Pizza Pub, 15 Main Street, Centerbrook

Porky Pete’s BBQ, 90 Plains Road, Centerbrook

Privateers Pizza & Provisions, 55 Main Street, Essex

Savour Cafe & Bakery, 90 Main Street, Centerbrook

Scoops of Centerbrook, 55 Main Street, Centerbrook

Scotch Plains Tavern, 124 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook

Siren Kitchen & Bar, 11 Ferry Street, Essex

Sweet P’s, 51 Main Street, Essex

Surfridge Brewing Company East, 6 Main Street, Centerbrook

Essex, 35 Plains Road, 860-767-2573 • Essex, 9 Main Street, 860-767-8238

Chester, 203 Middlesex Avenue, 860-526-0000

Madison, 99 Durham Road, 203-318-8611 • Old Lyme, 101 Halls Road, 860-434-1646

Old Saybrook, 155 Main Street, 860-388-3543 Toll-Free: 877-377-3922 • www.essexsavings.com

Life on the River

The history of Chester, Deep River, and Essex is rooted in the waterways large and small that shaped the industry of the area. Modern uses have changed, but the towns remain strongly linked to the water, most often as a source for relaxation and inspiration. Here’s a list of some of the ways to hit the water along the lower Connecticut River valley.

Chester

1. Cedar Lake

Cedar Lake on West Main Street is Chester’s summer swimming destination. The main beach has a 50,000 square foot swimming area (a smaller beach on Cedar Lake Road is unstaffed and has no designated swimming area) and is adjacent to the by Camp Hazen YMCA. The main beach features seasonal lifeguard coverage, picnic tables, a pavilion, grills, and a food concession. The beaches require patrons to have a permit. Details and prices may be found at http:// chesterct.org.

2. Parker’s Point Boat Launch

This 0 .6 acre boat launch facility is located at the end of Parker’s Point Road on the Connecticut River. It offers boat trailer parking and a picnic area with a view. The shore is a favorite winter eagle viewing location. A permit is required for parking. Details and prices may be found at http://chesterct.org.

Car Top Launch Site

Parmelee Farm

Pattaconk Lake Boat Launch is open year-round on State Forest Road in Cockaponset State Forest. For info, visit http://ct.gov/deep.

Private Marinas

Middlesex Yacht Club: 276 Middlesex Turnpike middlesexyachtclub.com

Pattaconk Yacht Club: 61 Dock Road pattaconk.org

Hays Haven Marina: 59 Railroad Avenue hayshaven.com

Chester Point Marina: 72 Railroad Avenue chesterpointmarina.com

Deep River

3. Deep River Landing

Chatfield Hollow State Park

Forester Pond State Park

The Deep River Town Dock (aka Deep River Landing) offers direct Connecticut River access via a boat ramp and fishing pier. It’s also a stop for the Essex Steam Train and the dock for the Becky Thatcher riverboat. With a gazebo overlooking the river and park-like grounds and large pier, it’s also just a nice place for a picnic. Free for residents with a permit, non-residents pay a daily fee of $20 per vehicle or $25 per vehicle with trailer. For info on the landing, visit http://deepriverct.us.

For info on the Steam Train and Riverboat, visit http://essexsteamtrain.com.

4. Plattwood Park

Deep River’s largest park offers a beach with swimming, picnic area, skate park, a ballfield, and a fitness course. It’s also home to the Dry Pants Yacht Club, which sails a competitive field of radio-controlled model sailboats. Free for residents with a permit, non-residents pay a daily fee of $40 per vehicle. For info on the landing, visit http:// deepriverct.us. For info on the model yacht club, visit www.dpmyc.com.

Car Top Launch Sites

For info. visit www.depdata.ct.gov/maps/coastalaccess. Brockway Ferry Landing at the end of Brockway Ferry Road (off River Road). Pratt Cove on Essex Street.

Private Marina

Brewer Deep River Marina: 50 River Lane byy.com

Essex

5. Essex Town Dock

Essex Town Dock is at the foot of Main Street, next to the Connecticut River Museum. The boat launch ramp provides direct Connecticut River access and the museum’s large pier and Steamboat Dock provide spectacular views of the river and busy Essex harbor. The museum also offers a variety of cruises throughout the year. Parking is limited. For info, visit www.essexct.gov and www.ctrivermuseum.org.

6. Essex Town Park

Essex Town Park on Nott Lane offers a quiet oasis right in the center of bustling Essex Village. The park includes benches and a lawn that overlooks the Connecticut River. It’s the site of frequent activities, from concerts to garden sales. For info, visit www. essexct.gov.

7. Essex Steam Train and Riverboat

Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, based at One Railroad Avenue, offers a unique way to access the Connecticut River through four season of activities ranging from summer sunset cruises on a vintage steam train connecting to the Becky Thatcher Riverboat to fall foliage tours to visits with Santa aboard a classic steam train. For info, call 800-3773987 or visit http://essexsteamtrain.com.

Car Top Launch Sites

For info, visit www.depdata.ct.gov/maps/coastalaccess. Little Point Street

Bushnell Park, Bushnell Street

Scholes Lane

Nott Lane Open Space, end of Nott Lane Alt Water Access Area, Collins Lane Mack Lane Water Access Area

Private Marinas

Pettipaug Yacht Club: 145 River Road pettipaug.com

Brewer Essex Island Marina: 11 Ferry Street byy.com

Brewer Dauntless Shipyard & Marina: 37 Pratt Street byy.com

Essex Boat Works, Inc.: 9 Ferry Street essexboatworks.com

Essex Corinthian Yacht Club: 19 Novelty Lane essexcorinthian.org

Essex Yacht Club: 13 Novelty Lane essexyc.com

Middle Cove Marina: 23 Saybrook Road www.the-clark-group.com

Bushy Hill

Calendar of Events

 SUNDAY, JULY 7

Cedar Lake Summer Concert Series: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cedar Lake, 218 W. Main St., Chester. Music by Shiny Meddle Hiney. Sponsored by Chester Parks and Recreation. Cost: $10 suggested donation per car. Proceeds benefit summer camp scholarships and the Friends of the Chester Public Library. Carpooling is encouraged. No dogs. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Rain date: Monday, July 8. For info, visit facebook. com/chesterct.

 WEDNESDAY, JULY 10

Essex Summer Concert Series: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Essex Green. Music by the Middletown Symphonic Band. Free. Presented by Essex Park and Recreation. For info, visit facebook.com/SXParkandRec.

 THURSDAY, JULY 11

Thursdays on the Dock Series: Cherry Pie: 5:30 to 7:15 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Bring a blanket or chair. Free, but donations can be placed in a hat that is passed around. No BYOB. Food, beer, and wine are available for purchase. For info, visit ctrivermuseum.org/events.

Deep River Summer Concert Series: 6:30 p.m. Plattwood Park, Winthrop

Road, Deep River. Music by DB Kinney. Food by Chris’ Dog House. Presented by the Deep River Parks & Recreation. For info, visit deepriverct.us/parks-andrecreation-news.

 SATURDAY, JULY 13

RiverQuest Kids’ Cruise: 9 to 10 a.m. Departs from Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Cost: $10 for ages 2 to 12, $20 for older than 12. Service fees apply. For info or tickets, visit ctrivermuseum.org.

Concert in the Garden: Driving Route 9: 7 to 9 p.m. Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery, 1 Spring St., Chester. Cost: $20 suggested donation. Outdoor bistro-style seating in the amphitheater. BYOB and picnic. Gates open 6:30 p.m. First come, first to be seated. No pets. Rain or shine. For info, call 860-526-2077 or visit nilssonstudio.com.

 SUNDAY, JULY 14

Cedar Lake Summer Concert Series: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cedar Lake, 218 W. Main St., Chester. Music by N&B. Sponsored by Chester Parks and Recreation. Cost: $10 suggested donation per car. Proceeds benefit summer camp scholarships and the Friends of the Chester Public Library. Carpooling is encouraged. No

dogs. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Rain date: Monday, July 15. For info, visit facebook.com/chesterct.

 TUESDAY, JULY 16

Essex Summer Concert Series: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Ivoryton Green. Music by the Blue Cherry. Free. Presented by Essex Park and Recreation. For info, visit facebook.com/ SXParkandRec.

 THURSDAY, JULY 18

Thursdays on the Dock Series: Local Honey: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Bring a blanket or chair. Free, but donations can be placed in a hat that is passed around. No BYOB. Food, beer, and wine are available for purchase. For info, visit ctrivermuseum.org/events.

Cedar Lake Triathlon Series #4: 6:15 p.m. Cedar Lake, 218 W. Main St., Chester. Hosted by the Valley Shore YMCA. Athletes participate in three phases: swimming in Cedar Lake for 500 yards; bicycling for 10 miles; and running next to Cedar Lake for 5 kilometers. All are welcome. Cost: $45 for individuals, $75 for relay teams. For info or tickets, visit facebook.com/cedarlaketriseries or itsyourrace.com.

Food Truck Festival: The Deep River Carnival and Food Truck Festival on Devitt Field.

Photo by Susan Lambert/The Courier

DEEP RIVER EVENTS 2024

JULY

11AUGUST 15

SUMMER CONCERTS

Thursdays from 6:30-8pm

Location varies: see website

July 11: DB Kinney August 1: Katie Perkins

July 18: Floydian Trip August 8: Brad and Brian

July 25: What it is August 15: Shorebreak

RUN TO THE RIVER 5K

SEPTEMBER 21

Race Day Registration: 7:30-8:30am

Race begins: 9am

Awards: 10:15am

information can be found at: https://www deepriverct us/parks-and-recreation-department

Calendar of Events

Deep River Summer Concert Series: 6:30 p.m. Town Green, Main Street, Deep River. Music by Floydian Trip. Food by Deep River Pizza. Presented by the Deep River Parks & Recreation. For info, visit deepriverct.us/parks-andrecreation-news.

 FRIDAY, JULY 19

Opening Night for Ask for the Moon: 8 p.m. The Terris Theatre, 33 N. Main St., Chester. Runs through Sunday, Aug. 11. Other showtimes available. For info, call 860-873-8668 or visit goodspeed.org.

 SATURDAY, JULY 20

Concert in the Garden: Shorebreak: 7 to 9 p.m. Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery, 1 Spring St., Chester. Cost: $20 suggested donation. Outdoor bistro-style seating in the amphitheater. BYOB and picnic. Gates open 6:30 p.m. First come, first to be seated. No pets. Rain or shine. For info, call 860-526-2077 or visit nilssonstudio.com.

 SUNDAY, JULY 21

Cedar Lake Summer Concert Series: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cedar Lake, 218 W. Main St., Chester. Music by Local Honey. Sponsored by Chester Parks and

Recreation. Cost: $10 suggested donation per car. Proceeds benefit summer camp scholarships and the Friends of the Chester Public Library. Carpooling is encouraged. No dogs. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Rain date: Monday, July 22. For info, visit facebook.com/ chesterct.

 WEDNESDAY, JULY 24

Essex Summer Concert Series: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Essex Green. Music by Future Heavies. Free. Presented by Essex Park and Recreation. For info, visit facebook.com/SXParkandRec.

 THURSDAY, JULY 25

Thursdays on the Dock Series: Not Sorry: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Bring a blanket or chair. Free, but donations can be placed in a hat that is passed around. No BYOB. Food, beer, and wine are available for purchase. For info, visit ctrivermuseum.org/events.

Deep River Summer Concert Series: 6:30 p.m. Devitt Field, Southworth Street, Deep River. Music What it Is. Food by Landing and Main. Presented by the Deep River Parks & Recreation.

For info, visit deepriverct.us/parks-andrecreation-news.

 SATURDAY, JULY 27

Brick Brunch: 10:30 a.m. to noon. Essex Steam Train Station, 1 Railroad Ave. Train boards at 10:15 a.m. and departs at 10:30 a.m. Features brunch served in the restored 1920s Pullman diners. Tickets: $68.99 per person ages 2 and up. Children under 2 must sit on an adult lap. Includes complimentary case of bricks. For info or reservations, call 860767-0103 or visit essexsteamtrain.com/ experiences.

Concert in the Garden: Paddy Whack and Arrowhead: 7 to 9 p.m. Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery, 1 Spring St., Chester. Cost: $20 suggested donation. Outdoor bistro-style seating in the amphitheater. BYOB and picnic. Gates open 6:30 p.m. First come, first to be seated. No pets. Rain or shine. For info, call 860-5262077 or visit nilssonstudio.com.

 SUNDAY, JULY 28

Cedar Lake Summer Concert Series: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cedar Lake, 218 W. Main St., Chester. Music by Greenstamps. Sponsored by Chester Parks and

2024 SEASON

Book by Sandy Rustin. Based on the MGM motion picture with story and characters by Amy Holden Jones

JUNE 27 – JULY 28, 2024

STORY By Kenneth Jones OCTOBER 3 – 20, 2024

Book by Greg Garcia and Mike O’Malley. Music and Lyrics by Jimmy Buffett AUGUST 8 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2024

US, EVERYONE! By Jacqueline Hubbard NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 15, 2024

Calendar of Events

 TUESDAY, JULY 30

Essex Summer Concert Series: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Ivoryton Green. Music by Southern Voice. Free. Presented by Essex Park and Recreation. For info, visit facebook.com/SXParkandRec.

 THURSDAY, AUG. 1

*Thursdays on the Dock Series: Java Groove: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Bring a blanket or chair. Free, but donations can be placed in a hat that is passed around. No BYOB. Food, beer, and wine are available for purchase. For info, visit ctrivermuseum.org/events.

Cedar Lake Triathlon Series #5: 6:15 p.m. Cedar Lake, 218 W. Main St., Chester. Hosted by the Valley Shore YMCA. Athletes participate in three phases: swimming in Cedar Lake for 500 yards; bicycling for 10 miles; and running

next to Cedar Lake for 5 kilometers. All are welcome. Cost: $45 for individuals, $75 for relay teams. For info or tickets, visit facebook.com/cedarlaketriseries or itsyourrace.com.

Deep River Summer Concert Series: 6:30 p.m Town Green, Main Street, Deep River. Music by Katie Perkins Band. Food by Apizza Grande. Presented by the Deep River Parks & Recreation. For info, visit deepriverct.us/parks-and-recreationnews.

 SATURDAY, AUG. 3

Concert in the Garden: Terri Lachance and Friends: 7 to 9 p.m. Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery, 1 Spring St., Chester. Cost: $20 suggested donation. Outdoor bistro-style seating in the amphitheater. BYOB and picnic. Gates open 6:30 p.m. First come, first to be seated. No pets. Rain or shine. For info, call 860-5262077 or visit nilssonstudio.com.

 SUNDAY, AUG. 4

Cedar Lake Summer Concert Series: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cedar Lake, 218 W. Main St., Chester. Music by Butter Jones. Sponsored by Chester Parks and Recreation. Cost: $10 suggested donation

per car. Proceeds benefit summer camp scholarships and the Friends of the Chester Public Library. Carpooling is encouraged. No dogs. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Rain date: Monday, Aug. 5. For info, visit facebook.com/chesterct.

 WEDNESDAY, AUG. 7

Essex Summer Concert Series: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Essex Green. Music by Leaf Jumpers. Free. Presented by Essex Park and Recreation. For info, visit facebook.com/SXParkandRec.

 THURSDAY, AUG. 8

Opening Day for Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville: 2 p.m. Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main St. Runs through Sunday, Sept. 8. Other showtimes available. For info, call 860-7677318 or visit ivorytonplayhouse.org.

Thursdays on the Dock Series: Savage Brothers Band: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Bring a blanket or chair. Free, but donations can be placed in a hat that is passed around. No BYOB. Food, beer, and wine are available for purchase. For info, visit ctrivermuseum.org/events.

Calendar of Events

Deep River Summer Concert Series: 6:30 p.m. Landing, 174 River Street, Deep River. Music by Brad and Brian. Food by The Nest. Presented by the Deep River Parks & Recreation. For info, visit deepriverct.us/parks-and-recreationnews.

 SATURDAY, AUG. 10

Concert in the Garden: The Meadows Brothers/Justin Chan & The Vices with Ryan Newman: 7 to 9 p.m. Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery, 1 Spring St., Chester. Cost: $20 suggested donation. Outdoor bistro-style seating in the amphitheater. BYOB and picnic. Gates open 6:30 p.m. First come, first to be seated. No pets. Rain or shine. For info, call 860-526-2077 or visit nilssonstudio.com.

 SATURDAY, AUG. 10 AND SUNDAY, AUG. 11

Don Giovanni: 3 p.m. Andrews Memorial Town Hall Auditorium, 54 E. Main St., Clinton. Presented by the Opera Theater of Connecticut. Tickets: $55 adults, $50 seniors, and $35 under 18. For info or tickets, visit operatheaterofct.org.

 SUNDAY, AUG. 11

Cedar Lake Summer Concert Series: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cedar Lake, 218 W. Main St., Chester. Music by Cartwright & Co. Sponsored by Chester Parks and Recreation. Cost: $10 suggested donation per car. Proceeds benefit summer camp scholarships and the Friends of the Chester Public Library. Carpooling is encouraged. No dogs. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Rain date: Monday, Aug. 12. For info, visit facebook.com/ chesterct.

 TUESDAY, AUG. 13

Essex Summer Concert Series: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Ivoryton Green. Music by Local Honey. Free. Presented by Essex Park and Recreation. For info, visit facebook. com/SXParkandRec.

 THURSDAY, AUG. 15

*Thursdays on the Dock Series: Bards of Gungywamp: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Bring a blanket or chair. Free, but donations can be placed in a hat that is passed around. No BYOB. Food, beer, and wine are available for purchase. For info, visit ctrivermuseum.org/events.

Deep River Summer Concert Series: 6:30 p.m. Plattwood Park, Winthrop Road, Deep River. Music by Shorebreak. Food by DaVinci Pizza. Presented by the Deep River Parks & Recreation. For info, visit deepriverct.us/parks-and-recreation-news.

 SATURDAY, AUG. 17

Household Hazardous Waste Collection: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Deep River Town Garage, 206 Winthrop Rd. (Rte. 80). Hosted by the Lower CT River Valley Council of Governments (RiverCOG). Free to residents of Chester, Clinton, Deep River, Essex, Killingworth, Old Saybrook, Westbrook, and other RiverCOG region towns. For info, visit rivercog.org/regionalservices/household-hazardous-waste.

Calendar of Events

Concert in the Garden: Someone You can Xray: 7 to 9 p.m. Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery, 1 Spring St., Chester. Cost: $20 suggested donation. Outdoor bistro-style seating in the amphitheater. BYOB and picnic. Gates open 6:30 p.m. First come, first to be seated. No pets. Rain or shine. For info, call 860526-2077 or visit nilssonstudio.com.

 SUNDAY, AUG. 18

Cedar Lake Summer Concert Series: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cedar Lake, 218 W. Main St., Chester. Music by Alex & Ryan. Sponsored by Chester Parks and Recreation. Cost: $10 suggested donation per car. Proceeds benefit summer camp scholarships and the Friends of the Chester Public Library. Carpooling is encouraged. No dogs. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Rain date: Monday, Aug. 19. For info, visit facebook.com/ chesterct.

 WEDNESDAY, AUG. 21

Essex Summer Concert Series: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Essex Green. Music by Blues on the Rocks. Free. Presented by Essex Park and Recreation. For info, visit facebook. com/SXParkandRec.

 THURSDAY, AUG. 22

*Thursdays on the Dock Series: Eight to the Bar: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main St., Essex. Bring a blanket or chair. Free, but donations can be placed in a hat that is passed around. No BYOB. Food, beer, and wine are available for purchase. For info, visit ctrivermuseum.org/events.

 FRIDAY, AUG. 23

Chester Fair: Friday, 6 to 11 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Chester Fairgrounds, 11 Kirtland Terr. Features live music, food, animal shows, tractor and horse pulls, rides, arts and crafts, baking contests, and children’s games. Cost: $10 general admission, Free for children 12 and under, $8 for senior citizens and military with ID. No pets. For info, call 860-526-5947 or visit chesterfair.org.

 SATURDAY, AUG. 24

Concert in the Garden: Old Dog New Trick: 7 to 9 p.m. Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio and Gallery, 1 Spring St., Chester. Cost: $20 suggested donation. Outdoor bistro-style seating in the amphitheater. BYOB and picnic. Gates open

6:30 p.m. First come, first to be seated. No pets. Rain or shine. For info, call 860526-2077 or visit nilssonstudio.com.

 SUNDAY, AUG. 25

Cedar Lake Summer Concert Series: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cedar Lake, 218 W. Main St., Chester. Music by Shorebreak. Sponsored by Chester Parks and Recreation. Cost: $10 suggested donation per car. Proceeds benefit summer camp scholarships and the Friends of the Chester Public Library. Carpooling is encouraged. No dogs. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Rain date: Monday, Aug. 26. For info, visit facebook.com/ chesterct.

 SUNDAY, SEPT. 1

Cedar Lake Summer Concert Series: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cedar Lake, 218 W. Main St., Chester. Music by Tim Kosky. Sponsored by Chester Parks and Recreation. Cost: $10 suggested donation per car. Proceeds benefit summer camp scholarships and the Friends of the Chester Public Library. Carpooling is encouraged. No dogs. Bring your own chairs and blankets. Rain date: Monday, Sept. 2. For info, visit facebook.com/chesterct.

Calendar of Events

 SATURDAY, SEPT. 14

Inaugural Chester Hose Company’s Golf Tournament: Registration 7:30 a.m. Lyman Orchards Golf Club, 70 Lyman Rd., Middlefield. Tournament starts 9 a.m. Maximum of four players per team. Admission: $160 per person, due Thursday, Aug. 1. For info or to register, email chcgolf@chesterhoseco. org or visit chesterhoseco.org/golf.

 THURSDAY, OCT. 3

Opening Day for Alabama Story: 2 p.m. Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main St. Runs through Sunday, Oct. 20. Other showtimes available. For info, call 860-767-7318 or visit ivorytonplayhouse.org.

 SATURDAY, OCT. 5

Paper Shredding Event: 9 a.m. to noon. Chester Fair Grounds, 11 Kirtland Terr. Hosted by the Lower CT River Valley Council of Governments (RiverCOG). Free to residents of Chester, Clinton, Deep River, Essex, Killingworth, Old Saybrook, Westbrook, and other RiverCOG region towns. For info, visit rivercog.org/regionalservices/household-hazardous-