The E List Guide to Summer 2026

Summer 2026

Guide to Summer on the CT Shoreline

Find the Best: Outdoor Dining Snack Shacks & Lobster Rolls

Plus:

Favorite Take-Out Our Bucket List Summer Fun & Much More!

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Meet with a Designer

Furniture Fashion Lifestyle SaybrookHome.com

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860.388.0891

Welcome to our fifth annual Summer Guide!

We’ve packed it with all our popular needto-know info, and wrapped it up in a shiny, easy-to-browse digital magazine.

Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime follower, discover every farmers’ market, festival, don’t-miss event, snack shack, our ultimate bucket list, and plenty more to help you savor every moment of summer.

Download the Guide to your desktop for easy reference (free, of course). Spread the summer spirit by passing the Guide along to friends, family, and visitors, and show some love to our local advertisers who make it all possible.

Here’s to a summer full of sunshine, and maybe a lobster roll or two.

the hosting company coffee & shoppe

104 MAIN STREET IVORYTON, CT @THE_HOSTINGCOMPANY

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GOODSPEED MUSICALS The Tap-Dancing Gershwin Hit!

About The E List Since 2008, Erica and her team have been shouting out the best of the CT Shoreline.

Our 25,000 loyal subscribers rely on The E List newsletter and website to help plan their lives on the Shoreline.

Curious about the latest restaurant opening?

Need a jaw-dropping bouquet? On the hunt for the ultimate lobster roll? We’ve got you covered.

We announce the sales and events that matter, must-have items of the season, and tell you where to eat and what to do this weekend.

Want in on the fun? Sign up here for our free bi-weekly newsletter and get all our latest finds delivered straight to your inbox.

And there’s more! Find everything we’ve ever written about on our website: theelist.com

JUNE 19–AUG 9

Table of Contents

WORLD PREMIERE

!

AUG 28–OCT 18 The Goodspeed, East Haddam

goodspeed.org 860.873.8668

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Outdoor Dining

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Lobster Rolls

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Our Bucket List

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Snack Shacks

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Farmers’ Markets

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Favorite Take-Out

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Farm Stands

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Summer Fun & Fest

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Summer Music

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SUMMER

Music

Fridays in July & August | 6-9 PM Join us for our seasonal tradition of live music, food trucks, and delicious wine. Lawn chairs and picnic dinners are welcome.

It’s the perfect summer evening!

Open 7 Days 11AM - 5PM | 523 Taugwonk Road, Stonington, CT stoningtonvineyards.com

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Outdoor Dining

Dinner just tastes better out-of-doors and we wait all year to dine al fresco. Here’s our list.

Red 36 ##

Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point Resort, Old Saybrook Dine overlooking the Sound at Fresh Salt, and feast on clam chowder, cioppino, lobster rolls, burgers, those irresistible homemade chips, and a full menu of classic coastal entrees.

2 Bridge Street, Old Saybrook saybrook.com RED36, Mystic RED36 offers a coastal vibe and an outdoor bar, lounge areas, and dining on the Mystic River, with a smart menu of standards. Snack on burgers, fish and chips, and fried clams, plus one of the best Bloody Marys we’ve tasted.

2 Washington Street, Mystic red36ct.com Cafe Flo, Old Lyme One of the best summer lunch spots on the Shoreline, Cafe Flo has an enticing menu of fresh salads, sandwiches and entrees and comes with the most spectacular view of the Lieutenant River. The Lobster, Avocado and Corn salad is my favorite! Reservations recommended.

96 Lyme Street, Old Lyme florencegriswoldmuseum.org Drift, Essex We’re always happy to hang out on an expansive deck with a 180 degree view of the CT River. You’ll find the classics (fish and chips, lobster rolls both hot and cold), plus spicy shrimp in a pool of cheesy grits, one of my favorite smash burgers, fried chicken sandwiches (Laura’s go-to) and creative cocktails.

37 Pratt Street, Essex eatdrinkdrift.com

Otto, Chester Stuff yourself with some of the best pizza on the Shoreline on their outdoor patio by the river under the festive sailcloth tent. A favorite! Wine, beer, creative cocktails. No reservations.

69 Main Street, Chester ottochester.com Ocean House, Watch Hill Summer isn’t summer without at least one visit to the Ocean House for cocktails and oysters on the stunning Verandah overlooking the Atlantic.

1 Bluff Avenue, Westerly RI oceanhouseri.com Treehouse at The Oyster Club, Mystic Oyster Club’s winding stairs lead up to the tented Treehouse with a view of the Mystic River.

13 Water Street, Mystic oysterclubct.com The Hangry Goose, Old Lyme (& Clinton New!) Outdoor dining smack on the Lieutenant River. Breakfast, lunch and dinner (check the opening hours) serving scrumptious mussels, burgers, flatbreads and much more. Perfect for rosé with a view!

11 Halls Road, Old Lyme hangrygoose.com Shanks, Clinton Shanks is our go-to for fried seafood (I always have my once-a-summer fried belly clam plate here), but there’s so much more!

Think lobster nachos, a damn good clam chowder, grilled or fried seafood tacos, and a kids menu. BYOB, and lounge on the deck overlooking Clinton Harbor.

131 Grove Street, Clinton shanksclinton.com

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Fresh Salt

Bacari Social

Shanks

Brushmill By the Waterfall

Drift

Siren

Noah’s

The Place

Bacari Social

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Noah’s at 63 Main, Essex The menu here is driven by classic American favorites like burgers, tacos, clam chowder, a bevy of salads, raw bar, and Eli’s famous chicken wings. The bar offers a slew of creative cocktails and a stunning CT River view. Lawn seating, too.

63 Main Street, Essex noahs63main.com

Bar Bouchée, Madison Our favorite bistro, Bar Bouchée, serves French classics, including Hanger Steak, Croque Monsieur, Escargot, and Profiteroles on the tented terrace in front of the restaurant.

8 Scotland Avenue, Madison barbouchee.com

Surfridge Brewing Company, Centerbrook Brushmill by the Waterfall, Chester Surfridge Brewing Company kicks off The terrace at the Brushmill is a hidden summer in Centerbrook with their spacious retreat for lunch or dinner. Tucked between a patio featuring live music, happy hours, raw covered bridge and a rushing waterfall, it’s a bar, wood-fired pizza and more. calming oasis. The menu tempts with a wide 6 Main Street, Building 3, Centerbrook range: from inventive chef creations and surfridgebrewery.com plenty of vegetarian options, to burgers and chicken wings. Since we love to graze, we Chapter One, Guilford sampled seared scallops in a corn velouté This lush terrace behind the Guilford Green with shredded Brussels, and bacon-red is a charming place to enjoy one of the best pepper jam (wow!), a silky asparagus soup, burgers on the Shoreline. Brunch, lunch, and and, of course, those irresistible chicken dinner. wings.

25 Whitfield Street, Guilford 129 West Main Street, Chester chapter-one.com thebrushmill.com The Place, Guilford Nothing has changed at this iconic Guilford restaurant since 1971, and that’s the charm.

The menu is seafood, chicken, and steak grilled over an open fire. Seating is on tree stumps, plates are paper, and utensils are wooden picks. But it’s one big happy party!

BYOB! 901 Boston Post Road, Guilford theplaceguilford.com Siren Kitchen & Bar, Essex Take the shortest ferry ride to this fun and casual spot, located at Essex Island Marina.

Enjoy a seafood-based menu with classic lobster rolls, plus creative sandwiches, salads, and gluten-free options.

11 Ferry Street, Essex sirenkitchenandbar.com

Marker 37, Chester By boat or on foot, head to Marker 37 for casual, modern American dining right on the banks of the CT River with an incredible and expansive view. Live music throughout the summer!

Chester Point Marina, 72 Railroad Avenue, Chester markerthirtyseven.com

Drift

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27 Main Street, Chester | dinavarano.com 11

Lobster Rolls

The CT lobster roll is arguably the best in New England.

No celery, no mayo, just fresh lobster bathed in hot butter.

Lobster Landing

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Lobster Landing, Clinton Many folks around here think that Lobster Landing is the ultimate roll, and I don’t disagree. A 1/4 pound of warm lobster meat tucked into a barely grilled sub roll, drizzled with butter and lemon. That’s it.

The secret? The roll is sturdy enough, so it doesn’t fall apart before you’ve had a chance to savor it, and the unadorned lobster, straight from the pot, is the star.

BYOB. 152 Commerce Street, Clinton lobsterlandingct.com The Lobzilla at Clam Castle, Madison The mammoth lobster roll wars are on and (I believe) it started with this two-foot long show-stopper, stuffed with 2 pounds of sweet, tender claw and knuckle meat and finished with a generous drizzle of butter.

Easily feeds 6 to 8 hungry friends.

1324 Boston Post Road, Madison clamcastlect.com Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point, Old Saybrook On a dreary afternoon, the idea of a lobster roll in a cozy room where the River meets the Sound, is just the ticket. At Fresh Salt, you can enjoy your roll outside or in, eliminating the necessity of a sunny day.

Here, chunks of tender claw and tail are dipped in butter and overflow a grilled brioche bun. A basket of irresistible housemade, wisp-thin potato chips, complete the experience.

2 Bridge Street, Old Saybrook saybrook.com

Flanders Fish Market, East Lyme What sets Flanders’ lobster roll apart? It’s served deconstructed. Hunks of lobster are swimming in a blend of warm butter and sherry, ready to be stuffed in a toasted brioche roll. The end result remains sturdy, not soggy, and ridiculously delish. And, yes, order the clam fritters for an app!

22 Chesterfield Rd, East Lyme flandersfish.com

Liv’s Shack, Old Saybrook Get in line and order up a hot buttered lobster roll, overstuffed with fresh-from-theshell chunks, on a buttery, toasted bun from Liv’s Oyster Bar’s seaside shack at the mouth of the Connecticut River. Don’t pass up the hand-cut truffle (or Old Bay) fries! BYOB. 26 Bridge Street, Old Saybrook livsshack.com Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock, New London Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock is a no-frills eatery serving up lightly buttered chunks of fresh lobster in a classic New England style toasted bun. Wedged between the train tracks and a marina, this popular spot has plenty of parking and picnic tables. A full menu of fried shore specialties, too, plus Gifford’s ice cream. BYOB. 80 Hamilton Street, New London captscotts.com Guilford Lobster Pound, Guilford A simple deck lined with picnic tables and views of the Sound and Grass Island make the backdrop for this classic roll: a grilled and buttered hot dog roll, stuffed with sweet, juicy meat. It’s a happy alternative on a lovely day to lunching on the Guilford Green, as it’s just down Whitfield Street.

505A Whitfield Street, Guilford guilfordlobsterpound.com 374 Kitchen + Cocktails, Niantic For those who can’t decide how they like their lobster roll, we say BOTH! Head to 374 for their 1/2 and 1/2 option, a buttery lobster pile on one half of a brioche roll and a chunky lobster salad on the other.

Owned by the family behind Flanders Fish, we know how fresh the rolls are here. Paired with crispy fries and tangy cole slaw, it’s our perfect meal.

374 Main Street, Niantic 374kitchenandcocktails.com 13

Sand Bar Grill

Lobster Landing

Haring’s Photo By: Lisa Nichols

Photo By: Flander’s Fish Market

Lobzilla at Clam Castle

Haring’s Photo By: Lisa Nichols

374 Kitchen & Cocktails

Haring’s, Noank It’s no easy task taking over a beloved restaurant, but the team behind Oyster Club, Engine Room, and Port of Call opened Haring’s at the old Ford’s last year.

Named for the original owner, they’ve devised a locally driven and creative seafood menu. Yes, you can enjoy the perfect hot, buttered lobster roll here, overloaded with meat on a brioche roll, but do not miss the fried clams, dredged ever so lightly in cornmeal and simply the best I’ve had. Finish up with the key lime pie.

Beautiful reno, new outdoor seating, and you can still arrive by boat. BYOB. 15 Riverview Avenue, Noank haringsnoank.com

The Wharf at Madison Beach Club, Madison

Grab a table on the porch with sweeping views of the beach and sound, then treat yourself to a mouthwatering roll dripping with drawn butter and a cone of crispy fries. (There’s also a French ham and butter sandwich on the menu, my favorite!). You cannot beat the combo here: a toasted, buttery lobster roll with a glorious ocean view.

Madison Beach Hotel 94 West Wharf Road, Madison thewharfmadison.com Sand Bar Grill, Old Saybrook Stop by this tasty food truck at Harvey’s Beach and do yourself a favor and order their lobster roll. Enjoy your perfectly seasoned, local hand-picked lobster meat on a brioche roll on a shady table at the beach.

29 Plum Bank Road, Old Saybrook Check FB for special offerings and website coming soon!

Haring’s

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Our Summer Bucket List Farm dinners, boat rides, trail walks, cooking classes = quintessential Connecticut.

Onrust Photo Credit: CT River Museum 64

Savor a leisurely lunch by the Lieutenant Get your zen on with weekly sunset meditation cruises and private charters with River at Café Flo, one of my top summer Raven Wellness Cruises out of Stony Creek. indulgences. This year, treat yourself to dinner on Tuesday nights, too. Reservations recommended.

All aboard for Essex Steam Train’s new Sunday Brunch: indulge in a three-course Spice up your summer with outdoor Salsa menu inside vintage Pullman dining cars dancing (lessons included) in 9th Square in as you glide through the stunning CT River New Haven twice a month this summer.

Valley.

Who says camp is just for kids? Dive into a day of hands-on creativity for adults at the Flo Gris Museum on 6/20, 7/18, and 8/8.

Glide into golden hour with Sunset Paddle Tours from Black Hall Marina in Old Lyme, offered every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening through August.

Stroll through Chester’s charming boutiques and galleries, then savor local flavors and live music at First Fridays, where the whole town comes alive.

Stretch and flow among fragrant lavender fields with all-levels Vinyasa Yoga at Lavender Pond Farm in Killingworth, every weekend.

Farm Fest is back at the picturesque White Gate Farm, bringing live music, tasty food trucks, and fun for the whole family every month.

Climb and Dine at Mystic Tree Trails Adventures: navigate zip lines, suspended bridges, rope ladders, and aerial challenges using state-of-the-art climbing gear, and then feast on food truck fare. 6/24, 7/16 & 8/13.

Sunday Chill at Stone Acres Farm, Stonington: Unwind on the farm and enjoy food and drink from 85th Day, plus live music. Sundays starting June 21th, 3 - 7:30

River Tavern hosts the original Dinners at the Farm at Hunts Brook Farm, including 5 Shanties & Sails: Live music AND a sail? Yes, farm-sourced courses, cocktails and wine on please! Enjoy a one-hour acoustic sea shanty July 31 & Aug 1, and Aug 7 & Aug 8, 2026. performance while you ply the river on the This summer, visit inside Ledge Light, New historic Onrust schooner, a replica of 1614 London Harbor Lighthouse, & Race Rock vessel.

Light with the New London Maritime Society’s Lighthouse Tour. iPark, a non-profit artist residency program in East Haddam, offers open trails and Mystic Tiki Bar Cruises set sail from Noank open studio days on its 450-acre nature and ply the Mystic River, while you enjoy the preserve. The trail walk is extraordinary, sights, cocktails and music. with winding moss-covered paths, bamboo forests, and magnificent outdoor art Three Belles Glow Paddle Nights: An installations. Open Trails and music on July illuminated kayak transforms the water into 11th. Check the calendar for more. a glowing world beneath you as you paddle along Niantic Shore and Smith Cove during Mystic Food Tours: From oysters and these Friday evening tours. lobster to brisket and bolognese, enjoy tastes from six of the best Mystic restaurants Weekend Kitchen’s popular cooking classes with a three-hour walking food tour. include New England Summer this year.

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Snack Shacks

Fried clams? Hot Dogs? French Fries? Yes, please!

Here’s our list of (local) fast food.

Sand Bar Grill

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Mystic Fish Camp, Mystic James Beard Award-Winning Chef David Standridge launched this fast-casual rendition of an old timey (yet 100% local, sustainable) fish shack late last summer.

We paired an inventive Banh Mi made with fresh local catch with steaming scrumptious Mermaid Fries (dusted dried seaweed) plus a Slushy Arnold Palmer and Frosé. Colorful and loaded salads, Real Deal Fish Sticks, Poor Man’s Loster Roll (made with Monkfish) and lots more. 4 E Main Street, Mystic mysticfishcamp.com Edd’s Place, Westbrook You may be expecting your typical snack shack at Edd’s, but NO. The menu is fresh and fantastic with the best home-baked biscuits and fried chicken on the Shoreline.

The menu ranges from hot dogs to lobster pie and plenty of other delicacies that Liz whips up in the tiny kitchen. Dinner, too.

478 Boston Post Road, Westbrook eddsplacect.com Hallmark Drive-In, Old Lyme Hallmark, the original snack shack of Old Lyme, has moved beyond its classic burgers, dogs, ice cream, and chowder. Every year on my birthday, I treat myself to a sundae and call it lunch, but I stopped in the other day and couldn’t resist a chopped cheese. This NYC staple is making inroads in CT, and I’m glad of it! Imagine juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and sweet onions sizzling together, then heaped onto a warm, toasted grinder.

Yum! 113 Shore Road, Old Lyme

hallmarkdrivein.com

Johnny Ad’s, Old Saybrook This roadside stand on Route 1 in Old Saybrook has been frying clams since 1957.

You’ll need to get in line most hours of the day, but we’ll wait for the Fried Oyster Roll with fries. Grab a hot dog while you’re at it.

910 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook johnnyads.com

Chris’ Dog House, Deep River I’m the girl at the barbecue, happily downing a hot dog while the rest are eating steak. It’s my summer go-to and I can’t pass

by Chris’s stand in Deep River without a full stop. Besides the classic Hummel on a rightsize and tasty bun (proportion is key here), there’s plenty more to order, like burgers, steak and cheese, kielbasa and red hots, but I can’t comment as I’ll always take that perfect summer dog.

Main Street, Deep River (next to SOMA) J&M Dockside, Clinton Brought to us by the team behind Bacari Social and CIAO, this shack sits at the Clinton Town Marina. Choose from a variety of breakfast sandwiches and try the decadent French Toast with blueberries and lemon cream cheese. Burgers, lobster rolls, fries and Italian Ice for lunch. We loved the clam chowder and the classic Buffalo Wings.

37 Riverside Drive, Clinton jmdockside.com Sand Bar Grill, Old Saybrook Located at Harvey’s Beach in Old Saybrook (fun at low tide), you’ll find this lively food truck under new ownership. This mother/ daughter duo has deep ties to this beach and an allegiance to CT purveyors like Libby’s Italian ice, Hummel hot dogs, Calise rolls and lots more. Enjoy your treats at a beachside table (with umbrellas!). There’s a parking fee for Harvey’s so let the attendant know you are coming for food and they’ll direct you.

29 Plum Bank Road, Old Saybrook Check FB for special offerings and website coming soon!

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Edd’s Place

The Anchor

Mystic Fish Camp

Sand Bar Grill

Shanks 22

Mystic Fish Camp

Chris’ Dog House

Seaswell

Halmark

Cedar Lake Snack Shack. Chester During the summer months, Cedar Lake Town Beach is for Chester residents and guests only, but anyone can hit the Snack Shack for lunch and snacks. The cooks from Karabella’s Catering in Chester have taken over the grill this year so expect exciting specials - lobster rolls, whole belly clams, and more.

218 West Main Street, Chester

karabellacatering.com

Lenny & Joe’s, Madison Serving summery seafood since 1979, Lenny & Joe’s is a Shoreline standard for locals and tourists alike. The Westbrook location is full service/dine-in but the Madison spot has counter service and picnic tables plus ice cream and a carousel in back. We get our whole belly fried clams here!

1301 Boston Post Road, Madison ljfishtale.com

Cedar Lake Snack Shack

The Anchor at Hays Haven, Chester A favorite for seasonal breakfast and lunch, we head to the Hays Haven Marina for homemade corned beef hash and eggs, a cheesy Monte Cristo (an amalgam of sweet French toast, ham and cheese, dusted with confectioners sugar and dipped in maple syrup!), plus egg sandwiches, waffles and all the sides. Yum! You’ll find a few cozy tables and dining nook inside and more outside at this family-friendly spot.

61 Railroad Avenue, Chester theanchorchester.com SeaSwirl, Mystic We head here for the hot bread cone filled will creamy New England Clam Chowder.

Choose cones with all types of lobster: hot with butter, cold salad with mayo, bisque, or mac & cheese. Enjoy locally sourced seafood, dairy, bread and more here on their extensive menu of treats.

30 Williams Avenue, Mystic seaswirlofmystic.com

Mystic Fish Camp

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Farmers’ Markets

Summer on the Shoreline is all about farm produce, fresh catch, and local meats and cheeses. We are excited to visit our favorite markets! Here’s our list.

Lyme Farmers’ Market at Tiffany Farms ##

Madison Farmers’ Market One of Connecticut’s premier markets, running from May through Thanksgiving on the Historic Town Green. A wide array of CT Grown and locally produced items, organic fruits and vegetables, meats, dairy, fish, bread, baked goods, prepared foods. Check their Vendor Listing to see what’s fresh each week. Open Fridays from 3–6pm, 5/1–11/27 Madison Town Green, Madison

Farmers’ Market at the Guilford Fairgrounds A Thursday destination for Shoreline locals from May through October. Select from locally grown fruits and vegetables, baked goods, artisan breads, meats, seafood, fresh pasta, eggs, and specialty products. CT made crafts, food trucks, and live music, too.

Open Thursdays, 4–7pm, 111 Lovers Lane, Guilford

Stonington Village Farmers’ Market Visit the market outside at the Velvet Mill every Saturday through mid-October. Fresh produce, baked goods, cheese, meat, seafood, flowers, handmade items, rotating craft vendors, and local musicians each week. Open Saturdays from 9am–12pm The Velvet Mill, 22 Bayview Avenue, Stonington

City Seed Markets CitySeed Farmers Markets connect shoppers directly to more than 50 Connecticut vendors - farms, nurseries, bakeries, cheese makers, and specialty food producers while providing vital economic support for regional farmers. Three New Haven locations: Wooster Square: 511 Chapel Street, New Haven - Open Saturdays, 9am– 1pm through 11/21.

Waterford Farmers’ Market A community-driven market in the heart of Waterford featuring fresh organic local produce, meats, honey, eggs, bread, sweets, handmade goods, live music, food trucks, and more. 6/20–10/24. Saturdays from 10am–1pm Waterford Community Center, 24 Rope Ferry Road, Waterford Lyme Farmers’ Market at Tiffany Farms Make a visit to this bountiful market part of your Saturday routine, beautiful flowers, tasty vegetables, and the nostalgia of a picturesque family farm in Lyme. Saturdays from 9am–12:30pm, Open thru 10/10 156 Sterling City Road, Lyme Coventry Farmers’ Market Now in its 24th season, one of the largest farmers’ markets in Connecticut operates on the grounds of the Nathan Hale Homestead, some of the most unspoiled countryside in the state. CT-grown, CT-made products all season long. Open Sundays, 10am–1pm Nathan Hale Homestead, 2299 South Street, Coventry

Edgewood Park: Corner of West Rock Ave & Whalley Ave, New Haven - Open Sundays, 10am-1pm through 11/21.

Dixwell Q House: 197 Dixwell Ave, New Haven - Saturdays, 10am-1pm, 6/27-10/24.

Old Saybrook Farmers’ Market Going into its 29th year, this market is certified by the CT Department of Agriculture - everything sold is Connecticut Grown or Made, much of it harvested or made the very same day. Twice a week from late June through October. Wednesdays & Saturdays from 9am–12:30pm, 6/27–10/28 | 210 Main Street, Old Saybrook Deep River Farmers’ Market Local produce, bread, dairy, homemade prepared foods, artisans, flowers, candles, a mushroom farm, local coffee roaster, kettle corn, and a food tent/picnic area. Saturdays from 10am–1:30pm, 6/20–10/17 | Marvin Field @ DRCC, One Church Street, Deep River 25

Niantic Farmers’ Market Celebrate fresh at this seaside market featuring local produce, pies, breads, plants, herbs, greens, pork, prepared foods, native wool, coffee, fresh-filled cannoli, and much more. Thursdays from 3–6pm, 6/18 - 10/22 Methodist Street Parking Lot, Niantic Dudley Farm Farmers’ Market Browse local and organic seasonal produce and handmade arts and crafts on the picturesque grounds of the Historic Dudley Farm Museum, ample parking and gorgeous scenery. Open Saturdays from 9:30am–12:30pm through 10/31 2351 Durham Road, Guilford

55 Whitfield Street, Guilford flutterby-ct.com 203-458-1941

A grateful & passionate owner, Beth has spent 27 years building Flutterby, one of the shoreline’s most successful boutiques.

East Haddam Farmers’ Market Wednesdays at Shagbark Lumber & Farm Supplies from June through September.

Shop from local farmers, bakers, and artisans, and enjoy food trucks and live music while you support your community.

Wednesdays from 3–6pm.

21 Mount Parnassus Road, East Haddam Chester Sunday Market A weekly town-wide market that brings the community together with produce, meats, cheeses, breads, and so much more. Grab a slice of wood-fired pizza or an ice cream while you browse all that the vendors have to offer. Sundays from 10am–1pm, 6/14– 10/11 Downtown Chester Village, Chester Colchester Farmers’ Market Sundays on the Colchester Green are the place to be, everything local and healthy, from produce and baked goods to artisans, with live music throughout. Sundays from 9am–1pm, Open 6/21–10/18 97 Haywood Avenue, Colchester

Grounded in community & known for turning customers into friends!

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Mon-Fri 1-9 | Sat + Sun 12-9 29 MAIN STREET CHESTER | HONEYCONECREAMCO.COM | 860.322.3132

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Doro Market

Thai Riverside

Shayna B’s

Mystic Market

Papi’s Tacos

GG at Home

SavourPlace Cafe Edd’s

Star Gourmet

Pasta Vita

Favorite Takeout

We rely on take-out for everything from lazy week-night meals to last-minute dinner parties these days.

Here are a few of our favorite dishes.

Papi’s Tacos, Old Lyme I’m a big fan of Papi’s Taqueria in Old Lyme. Tucked away on Halls Road, this unassuming storefront dishes out authentic tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, and a whole array of Mexican favorites. The best part? You can mix and match a variety of taco fillings and throw together a supereasy, budget-friendly taco party for a crowd.

Just call ahead to ask for your fillings and tortillas packed separately, and make sure to grab all the fixings: homemade sauces, chopped onions, sliced radishes, and flan for dessert! orderpapistaqueria.com Star Gourmet, Guilford Chef Andrea Dante of Star Gourmet IS a star in my opinion, and the to-go shop tucked away on Water Street is a find.

Owned by the masterminds behind Star Fish Market, there’s lots to choose from here, and you can be absolutely sure the fish is fresh. This gorgeous plate of seared tuna was bright and tasty, and I cannot resist a crunchy summer roll. If the truffled leek & cauliflower bisque is on special, do NOT pass it up.

Menu here: stargourmet.com Lobster Bisque Pot Pie at Edd’s Place, Westbrook Everything Liz whips up in her cozy kitchen at Edd’s is a delight, but the lobster bisque pot pie, with chunks of fresh lobster in a velvety sauce and a biscuit crust, is over the top! Grab a few for an intimate dinner party and dazzle your guests! eddsplacect.com

Doro Market, Old Saybrook Brought to you by the team behind the excellent West Hartford-based restaurants Treva, A’vert Brasserie, and Zohara (& more!), this Mediterranean inspired market and cafe has been on heavy rotation for us. We order a half-bird rotisserie chicken with two sides on the regular. Top picks are truffled roasted potatoes and a Caesar Salad (the macaroni and cheese is also DELISH). Pinsas, sourdough loaves, croissants, pastries and so much more. doromkpl.com Mystic Market, Mystic, Old Saybrook, and now in East Lyme I was gluten-free for a while, and years ago, I discovered the gluten-free Eggplant Parmesan at Mystic Market. If you ask me, it’s better than gluten-full! If you’re itching for Italian comfort food, this is it: gooey cheese, crispy layers, and a lively tomato sauce. It’s an all-year-round favorite, and the hefty portion easily feeds 3. mysticmarket.com Pasta Vita, Old Saybrook Everyone has their favorites at Pasta Vita, but a friend introduced me to the Thai Shrimp and Chicken Curry, and I’m hooked.

It’s fresh, full of flavor, perfectly balanced with just the right amount of spice, and paired with fragrant jasmine rice. Order ahead and you can get a pan big enough to feed a party. Check the website for availability: pastavita.com

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More Take-Out...

Mystic Market, Mystic, Old Saybrook, and now in East Lyme I was gluten-free for a while, and years ago, I discovered the gluten-free Eggplant Parmesan at Mystic Market. If you ask me, it’s better than gluten-full! If you’re itching for Italian comfort food, this is it: gooey cheese, crispy layers, and a lively tomato sauce. It’s an all-year-round favorite, and the hefty portion easily feeds 3. mysticmarket.com

Cooked

Cooked Marketplace, Centerbrook We are regulars at Cooked for some very good reasons: the clam chowder is out of this world, as is the tuna salad (believe us on this one), and we always have their excellent chilaquiles stashed in our freezers but a crowd-pleasing, healthy-ish dinner is this platter of skewered grilled chicken and tasty shrimp fried rice. Delish! cookedmarketplace.com Shayna B’s By the Sea, Westbrook Vegans, GF people and Falafel fans are all in luck at Shayna B’s in Westbrook. Order ahead and pick up your salad topped with 3 house-made falafel patties served on a bowl of crispy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives and pickled onions. Homemade tzatziki sauce on the side. shaynabsbythesea.com Three Girls Vegan Creamery, Guilford The vegans among us are lucky to have Three Girls Vegan in Guilford. Vegetablebased versions of Italian comfort food are their specialty, and I happily devoured a vegan sausage sandwich on slim rounds of fried dough, slathered with fresh pesto. I’m not vegan, so I’m always a little suspect of plant-based meats, but this sando is yummy and can easily feed two. Check out the menu here: threegirlsvegancreamery.com 32

Cooked

GG at Home, Niantic There’s lots to choose from here at this bayside café brought to us by the team behind Gourmet Galley catering. A standout for us is the Grilled Salmon on a Kale Caeser Salad. THE perfect dressing and crunchy garlic croutons tossed with fresh greens a healthy piece of salmon. ggathome.com Thai Riverside, Chester This trusty Pad Thai (with chicken) has been our go-to since they opened their doors pre-pandemic. They are heavy-handed on the spice so we get our chilis on the side. thai-riverside.com

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Gifts to love. A mission to support.

Discover beautifully curated gifts and specialty foods – every purchase makes a difference.

Creations is a unique gift shop owned by Vista Life Innovations, a local non-profit, empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve independence, meaningful employment, and a sense of belonging

203.800.6531 • 698 Boston Post Road • Madison, CT 47

Flowers & Farm Stands From produce to pies, here are some favorite farm stands and flower farms.

Best Buds Flower Farm

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Barberry Hill Farm This 100-year-old family farm on the Post Road between Madison and Guilford practices sustainable, pesticide-free farming. The flower-filled roadside stand is always a feast for the eyes. Daily 8 am–6pm (Sundays until 5pm), May–October 353 Boston Post Road, Madison

Long Table Farm Long Table Farm practices sustainable agriculture and offers a wealth of seasonal vegetables and fruit at their Saturday Market from 10am–1pm, with guest vendors (pizza and more!) every week. Saturdays 10am–1pm 256 Beaver Brook Road, Lyme

Bishop’s Orchards Enjoy the bounty at Bishop’s all year long, home-grown produce, world-famous pies (and half pies!), grab-and-go meals, edible cookie dough, and party platters. A shoreline institution. Year-Round Mon–Sat 8am–7pm, Sun 9am–6pm 1355 Boston Post Road, Guilford

Lakeside Farm Stand You might come for the ice cream, but stay for the farm. From the llamas out front to the baby chicks in the feed store, the whole family will love it. Plus a freezer case full of farm meats, sausage, bacon, burgers, stew meat, and steaks. Tues–Sun from 10:30am– 7pm (Closed Mondays) 31 Lake Drive, Guilford

Four Mile River Farm Family-run Four Mile is famous for its burgers, but you’ll find every cut of beef from sirloin strips to steak tips, plus nitratefree hot dogs and kielbasa for all your BBQs and backyard grilling. Pet food, too. Open 7 days a week from 9am–5pm 124 Four Mile River Road, Old Lyme

Sankow’s Beaver Brook Head a mile up Beaver Brook Road and find refrigerated cases full of Sankow’s awardwinning cow and goat cheeses, frozen lamb and bean chili, bolognese, Shepherd’s Pie, and the best pesto around. Next door: a shop full of wool products, sweaters, and the cutest socks. Daily 9am–4pm 139 Beaver Brook Road, Lyme

White Gate Farm This eye-popping, organic stand on bucolic White Gate Farm is a delight for the senses!

Stunning fruits, veggies, and flowers are arranged just so, tempting pastries and farm-prepared foods straight from the oven, plus summer fest and critter tours.

Saturdays from 9am–2pm; additional days in June TBA 83 Upper Pattagansett Road, East Lyme

Stone Acres Farm A historic 63-acre working farm celebrating natural farming, sustainable food, and culinary education. They supply the famed Oyster Club and Engine Room in Mystic.

Florals, sweets, greens, eggs, veggies, honey, dairy, local meat, and more. Check the website for farm dinners, classes, and workshops. Tues–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat-Sun 9am–5pm, Closed Mondays 393 North Main Street, Stonington

Staehly’s Farm & Winery With over 20 different fruit crops, Staehly Farms offers fresh-market and pick-yourown fruit — raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, peaches, plums, and apples, from June through October Saturdays and Sundays 12-4pm. Their orchards also produce fruit for their award-winning farm wines and hard ciders. June–October 28 Petticoat Lane, East Haddam

Scott’s Yankee Farmer Get here early on weekends for the best hot apple cinnamon donuts, then browse their own hothouse tomatoes and freshly picked berries and veggies. Check the blackboard or their website for pick-your-own dates.

Daily 9am–5:30pm 436 Boston Post Road, East Lyme 37

More Farm Stands & Flower Farms...

Healthy Planeat Can’t make the farmers market but want to feast on fresh local food? Order fruits, veggies, Nana’s incredible bread, Cato Deep Hollow Farm Corner Cheese, meats, and more — This organic, no-till farm grows perfectly lined rows of beets, kale, heirloom tomatoes, delivered directly to your door.

Pick-up locations available in various and everything in between. The farmhouse towns. store is tucked away near the end of Deep Hollow Road. Saturdays from 9am–12pm Best Buds Flower Farm 46 Deep Hollow Road, Chester Heirloom varieties grow on a bucolic farm (yoga studio in the adjacent barn!) in Lyme.

Scott’s Farm & Greenhouses From peonies to dahlias, this peaceful farm Scott’s Farm in Essex offers up a variety offers pick-your-own all summer long. Onof veggies, tomatoes and melons, and farm flower arranging and yoga workshops, supplements their offerings with produce too. from neighboring farms. The fun begins in 52-1 Blood Street, Lyme

late July when the pick-your-own flowers bloom in the giant cutting garden. Sold by Seed & Soil Flower Farm

the pound, you can haul off zinnias, dahlias Subscribe to 8 weeks of farm-fresh flowers! and more at a great price. Smart for DIY From dahlias to sunflowers and much more, weddings and summer parties, or just a these two best friends turned flower-farming bunch for the house. Great for kids, too! partners will pick you a plentiful bouquet 81 Plains Road, Essex starting in late July. | Grown in Chester

Old Saybrook Garden Center Four Root Farm While Scott’s in Old Saybrook will always Located on 16 certified organic acres in East hold a special place in our hearts, we’re Haddam, this vegetable and flower farm so excited to hear that the new owners, sells their bounty online and at farmers’ Saybrook Garden Center, will soon have a markets. Sign up for a summer Flower full stock of organic fruits and vegetables.

Share, 12 weeks of colorful mixed bouquets, Head over now for a vast selection of with pick-up on-farm or at the Madison or colorful perennials, annuals, and tropicals, Wooster Square markets. and keep an eye out for produce in the 257 Tater Hill Road, East Haddam coming weeks.

356 Middlesex Turnpike, Old Saybrook Mena’s Garden Farm owner Dr. Philomena Asante (“Mena”) The Farm on Deep River Stop by this picture perfect farm for a coffee is a pediatrician and flower enthusiast whose happy place is creating beautiful or kombucha on tap, an array of baked goods, fresh eggs, hyrdrangeas in the stand floral bouquets. 10% of the farm’s annual proceeds supports a national non-profit that outside and much more. Bring the kids to supports Black women in medicine. Private play in the haybails and visit the animals. flower picking and bouquet-making events Produce to come soon! for small groups, too.

362 West Elm Street, Deep River 2871 Durham Road, Guilford

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Summer Fun & Festivals From classic country fairs to antique shows, here’s our list.

Hamburg Fair Photo Credit: Heike Coffee Photography

Salsa Under the Stars on Tuesdays, through 9/15, at 7:30pm at Broadway Island, New Haven. Free salsa lessons from 7:30–8pm followed by open dancing until 9:30pm, every Monday evening all summer long. No partner or experience needed, just bring your dancing shoes. FREE International Festival of Arts & Ideas throughout June. A citywide festival featuring free concerts on the New Haven Green, dance performances, storytelling, tours, lectures, comedy, food vendors, and more. The 2026 theme is Home & Belonging. Many events free; ticketed events prices vary.

Lyman Orchards Strawberry Festival in Middlefield on 6/13 from 10am–4pm.

Strawberry picking, live music, strawberry shortcakes, food trucks, petting farm, pieeating contest, and more.

Connecticut Sea Music Festival from 6/13– 6/14 from 11am-4pm at the Pratt House, Essex. Enjoy live music, maritime history, Revolutionary War re-enactors and family fun.

Essex Summer Arts Festival 6/20–6/21, Arts Center Killingworth and Spectrum Gallery present award-winning painters, photographers, sculptors, jewelers, and fine crafters from across the region on the Essex Red 36 Green.

American Crafts and Trades Weekend on 6/27–6/28 from 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM at Pratt House Essex. Celebrate America 250 with demonstrations in blacksmithing, woodworking, and fiber arts.

The E List and Saybrook Home host Girls’ Night Out on Thursday, 6/25. 20% off at participating shops, food, and cocktail specials all along Main Street.

Celebrate Saybrook Street Party on 6/28 from 4–8:30pm. 30+ food options, craft beer, 40+ artisan vendors, and family fun. Stick around until 9pm for a patriotic drone show above Main Street celebrating America 250!

CT Historic Gardens Day on 6/28 at various times and locations. Enjoy gardens and outdoor festivities at historic venues throughout Connecticut.

Celebrate New London on 7/11. Enjoy a spectacular fireworks show, live music, locally made wares, food trucks and so much more in downtown New London.

Guilford Craft Expo on 7/17–7/19 at Guilford Town Green, Guilford: One of the longest-running juried craft shows in America features over 170 artists and makers, live music, a family art tent, gourmet food vendors, and a silent auction.

Olde Mistick Village Art in the Village 6/20–6/21, Glass, illustrations, jewelry, paintings, photography, pottery, wood, and more — dozens of artists gather in the charming open-air village. Returns for additional weekends 7/25–7/26 and Labor Day 9/5–9/7.

The WoodenBoat Show at Mystic Seaport 6/26–6/28 from 9am–5pm daily. Over 100 handcrafted kayaks, mahogany runabouts, classic daysailers, and schooners.

Hamburg Fair Photo Credit: Heike Coffee Photography 43

More Fun & Festivals...

FloatSwella on 7/18 at Mystic River (north of the Bascule Bridge). A wildly fun pop-up paddle-craft-only rally featuring live bands and a DJ on a floating stage. Grab your kayak, paddleboard, or inflatable and float your way into summer.

Milford Oyster Festival on 8/14–8/15 at Fowler Field. New England’s biggest oneday oyster festival returns with an eveningonly format for two nights. Locally sourced oysters, live music headlined by Mike DelGuidice (Billy Joel’s band) and Nashville Drive, food, beer, and wine.

Midsummer Festival on 7/24–7/25 at Florence Griswold Museum lawn and Lyme Street, Old Lyme: Art sales, live music, food trucks, a classic car show, a dog parade, a 5K road race, and family fun up and down Lyme Street, Saturday 9am–3pm. Kicks off Friday evening (7/24) with a free lawn concert by Mass-Conn-Fusion, 7–9pm.

Hamburg Fair on 8/21–8/23, at Hamburg Fairgrounds, Lyme: An intimate agricultural fair showcasing local music talent, entertainment, rides, classic fair food, and a beer and wine garden. Proceeds support the Lyme Grange Association and Lyme EMS. $8–$10; kids 11 and under FREE

LEGO Design Showcase at Nautilus Architects on 7/25: Celebrate imagination, architecture, and community creativity with original builds, family fun, and hands-on artistic exploration for all ages.

Chester Fair at Chester Fairgrounds on 8/28–8/30. A local favorite since 1877, emphasizing zero waste, with Robinson’s Racing Pigs, tractor pulls, frog jumping contests, concessions, rides, and exhibits.

COMO Village Fair on 8/1 from 10am– 4pm at Wadawanuck Square, Stonington Borough. Live bands, artisan row, pottery tent, baked goods, games, and more, all raising funds for the Stonington Community Center.

Wadsworth Mansion Open Air Market & Festival on 8/30. Connecticut-grown produce, artisan crafters, live music, and food.

North Branford Potato & Corn Festival from 8/7–8/9 at Totoket Valley Park, North Branford: The beloved PoCo Fest features free family entertainment, rides, games, live music, food, fireworks, a tractor pull, and a classic car and motorcycle show.

Madison on the Common Crafts Fair on 8/8 from 10am–4pm at Madison Town Green, Madison: Hundreds of crafters on the beautiful Madison Green featuring country crafts, jewelry, woodcrafts, and more.

Mystic Outdoor Art Festival on 8/8– 8/9, downtown Mystic: The 68th annual edition of the oldest juried art show in the Northeast, nearly 270 artists, over a mile of fine arts and crafts along the Mystic River, a Children’s Art Park, and a Performing Arts Stage.

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Haddam Neck Fair on 9/4–9/7 at Haddam Neck Fairgrounds. From skillet throwing and truck pulls to livestock shows and classic fair food, this fair has it all in a bucolic setting.

Guilford Fair on 9/20–9/21 at Guilford Fairgrounds. Connecticut’s second-oldest agricultural fair, established in 1859, features rides, live entertainment, tractor pulls, a petting zoo, crafts, photography, horticulture, and fair food favorites.

Harvest Festival on 9/19–9/20, at Christ the King Church, Old Lyme: A community favorite with a rummage sale, fall plants and produce, food, games, and live music.

Durham Fair on 9/24–9/27. Connecticut’s largest agricultural fair features live entertainment on four stages, rides, games, three livestock barns, a midway, crafts, baking, and a huge selection of fair food.

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Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

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Summer Music You can enjoy live outdoor music virtually every night of the week this summer.

Photo by Town of Old Saybrook Parks & Recreation ##

Shanties & Sails on Tuesdays in June 2026 from 5:30–6:30pm at Connecticut River Museum, Essex: Talented shanty and sea-song musicians perform free one-hour shows on the North Deck, with optional ticketed sailing aboard the historic vessel Onrust.

Dates: 6/2, 6/9, 6/16, 6/23, 6/30.

Connecticut Early Music Festival on select weekends, 6/6–6/21 at various venues, New London area: An annual festival presenting European music written before 1800, featuring six concerts over three weekends in June.

Tunes on the Dunes on Mondays & Wednesdays, 6/6–8/12, 6–8pm at Westerly Old Town Beach, Westerly, RI: Monday Night Jams and Wednesday Blues on the Beach. 2026 lineup includes Sugar, Room Full of Blues Duke Robillard and more.

Old Saybrook Summer Concert Series Old Saybrook Summer Concert Series, 6/10-8/21. Wednesdays at Harvey’s Beach starting at 6:30 and Fridays at Old Saybrook Town Green starting at 7pm. Family-friendly, bring a blanket and chairs.

Connecticut Sea Music Festival on 6/12– 6/15 at multiple venues, Essex: A traditional maritime folk festival beginning with the Symposium on the Music of the Sea on Friday, followed by evening concerts and music throughout the town. Daytime events FREE; ticketed evening concerts.

Esker Point Beach Concert Series on Thursdays, 6/18–8/6 from 6–8pm at Esker Point Beach, Groton: Don’t miss Summer Sound Waves, eight weeks of community beach concerts presented by Groton Parks & Recreation. Family-friendly, alcohol-free.

Food trucks on-site.

Make Music Day on 6/21/26 at various outdoor locations, Southeastern CT: Ring in the summer solstice with a worldwide day of free outdoor music celebrations at numerous locations. Anyone can perform; anyone can attend.

McCook’s Beach & Bandshell Concert Series McCook Point Park, Niantic on Wednesdays & Fridays from 6/19–8/28 from 6-8pm. Free concerts overlooking Niantic Bay, Wednesday evenings on the beach and Fridays in the bandshell. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic. No alcohol permitted.

Branford Jazz on the Green on Thursdays, 6/25–8/20 at 6:30pm. Celebrating jazz since 2009, this weekly series presents worldclass performers every Thursday behind Town Hall. 2026 lineup includes Rob Zinn, Greg Abate Quartet, Lindsey Webster, Phil Denny, and more.

Stonington Vineyards Summer Music Series on Fridays, 6/26–8/28 from 6–9pm: A seasonal tradition of music, food, and wine. Bring lawn chairs and blankets; picnic dinners welcome. Food trucks on-site. 20% of ticket proceeds benefit a local charity each week.

Watch Hill Sunset Concerts Watch Hill Village Green on select Tuesdays, 6/30– 8/25 from 6–8pm. Free outdoor concerts on the Green on Bay Street every other Tuesday. 2026 dates: 6/30, 7/14, 7/21, 8/11, 8/25.

Grassy Strip Music Series on Thursdays from late June through the end of August at The Wharf at Madison Beach Hotel, Madison: Enjoy live outdoor shows on the iconic Grassy Strip overlooking the Long Island Sound. Food and beverages available for sale.

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More Music...

Chestnut Hill Concerts on Fridays, 8/7–8/28 at 7:30pm at The Kate, Old Saybrook: World-class chamber music on four consecutive Friday evenings in August, celebrating the series’ 57th season. Works

by Mozart, Kodály, Schumann, Saint-Saëns, Debussy, Brahms, Schubert, Beethoven, and Prokofiev. Tickets on sale at The Kate’s Box Office.

Music on the River at the Goodspeed on Mondays, 7/13–8/17 from 6:30–8:30pm, East Haddam: A free concert series on the stunning lawn of the Goodspeed Opera House along the Connecticut River. Food and drink at the Gelston House or bring a picnic, lawn chair or blanket.

Guilford Craft Expo on 7/17–7/19 at Guilford Town Green, Guilford: Offered for over 60 years, this is one of the longestrunning juried craft shows in America. Over 170 artists and makers, live music, a family art tent, gourmet food vendors, and a silent auction. Fri–Sat 10am–6pm, Sun 11am–5pm. $11 adults / $10 seniors / under 16 FREE Celebrate East Lyme on 7/18 from 1–10pm at Niantic Main Street and McCook Point Park, Niantic: East Lyme’s biggest celebration transforms Niantic’s Main Street into a spectacular seaside festival with 200+ vendors, multiple live music stages, kids’ activities, and the beloved St. John’s Carnival. The day ends with a spectacular fireworks display over Niantic Bay at 9pm.

FREE Midsummer Festival Concert on 7/24 from 7–9pm at Florence Griswold Museum lawn, Old Lyme: The beloved kickoff concert on the riverfront lawn of the Flo Gris launches Old Lyme’s Midsummer Festival weekend featuring Mass-Conn-Fusion. FREE

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Rhythm & Roots Festival on 9/4–9/6 at Ninigret Park, Charlestown, RI: Labor Day weekend roots music festival with Cajun, zydeco, blues, country, bluegrass, and Americana on three stages. 2026 headliners: The Devil Makes Three, St. Paul and The Broken Bones, Margo Price, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and Yonder Mountain String Band. From $135 (day)/weekend passes available Summer Concerts on the Green in Madison on Sundays in the summer from 6–8pm at Madison Town Green: 7/12-8/30, 6-8pm. Bring lawn chairs and a picnic. No alcohol permitted.

Maugle Sierra Vineyards on Saturdays & Sundays, 3–6pm throughout summer at Maugle Sierra Vineyards, Ledyard: Live music every weekend afternoon. Check social media for lineup. FREE Surfridge Brewery on Thursdays, 6pm throughout summer. Live music every Thursday evening at this shoreline brewery.

Saltwater Farm Vineyards Music Series in Stonington on select Sundays, Thursdays and special events throughout summer.

Sunday Funday afternoons with live music and food trucks. Check website for schedule.

The Juke on Fridays & Saturdays, 8–11pm at The Juke. Deep River’s destination for original live music every Friday and Saturday night.

Music at the Mansion on Wednesdays in July, 7/1–7/22 from 5:30 – 8:30 at Wadsworth Mansion, Middletown: Live entertainment every Wednesday night in July on the mansion’s magnificent back lawn.

Food trucks and picnics welcome.

129 West Main Chester thebrushmill.com 860-544-5269

Savor Summer...

at the award winning

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Even More Music...

The Side Door Jazz Club on Fridays & Saturdays, 8pm throughout summer at Old Lyme Inn. World-class jazz every Friday and Saturday. One of the premier jazz venues in New England.

The Tap Room at the Gris Essex on Fridays, 8–11pm. Live music events at the historic Griswold Inn’s Tap Room.

Thursdays on the Dock in July & August at Connecticut River Museum dock, Essex: Bring a chair or blanket, enjoy a free concert, and watch the sun go down over the Connecticut River. Check museum website for 2026 dates and performers.

Water’s Edge Westbrook. Live music events all summer long at this scenic waterfront resort.

Cedar Lake Concert Series on Sundays, 5–7pm throughout summer at Pelletier Park, Chester: Summer concerts on the shores of Cedar Lake. Check the Chester Public Library website for the 2026 schedule.

Marker 37 on various Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays throughout summer at Marker 37, Chester: Riverside live music at this Chester waterfront spot.

Concerts in the Garden on Saturdays, 7/11 – 8/29 from 7–9pm at Leif Nilsson Spring Street Studio & Gallery, Chester: Eclectic international and local singer-songwriters from cool jazz to bluegrass in a charming outdoor garden amphitheater. BYOB and picnic dinner welcome. $20 suggested donation.

Essex Steam Train

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Summer Concerts in Essex and Ivoryton Town Parks on alternating Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 7/8–8/12 at 6:30pm at Ivoryton Green and Essex Main Street Park.

Not Just for Artists.

Though Artists Love It.

84 Lyme Street Old Lyme, Connecticut 06371

Mon–Sat 9–5 Sun 12–4

(860) 434-5232 degerendays.com

Drawing, Painting, Sculpture.

For Students, Adults, and Everyone in Between.

84 Lyme Street Old Lyme, Connecticut 06371

(860) 434-5232 lymeacademy.edu

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balehomewares.com | @bale.homewares visit us at the velvet mill, stonington ##