The CT Beacon

Artini: Art in Motion, Alcohol Ink Art
2026-05-29 17:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Mystic Museum of Art, 9 Water Street, Mystic, 06355, United States
Artini: Art in Motion, Alcohol Ink Art brings cocktails, creativity, and hands-on artistic experimentation to Mystic Museum of Art for an evening designed around colorful abstract design and relaxed social energy along the shoreline. Part happy hour and part art workshop, the Artini series invites guests into the museum’s studios to explore different creative techniques while enjoying drinks, conversation, and a more casual approach to making art in one of Mystic’s most recognizable cultural spaces.
Led by instructor Carol Mann, this session focuses on alcohol ink art, a vibrant medium known for its flowing colors, unpredictable movement, and visually striking abstract effects. Participants will work with smooth ceramic tiles as inks swirl, blend, and spread across the surface, creating patterns shaped by movement, airflow, and personal technique. Guests can tilt, guide, or blow the inks to create everything from bold color fields to more delicate layered designs, then optionally add line work and details once the pieces dry.
The event blends the atmosphere of a creative night out with the hands-on appeal of a beginner-friendly art class, making it especially appealing for couples, friend groups, date nights, and anyone looking for a more relaxed indoor activity along the Connecticut shoreline. With drinks, supplies, instruction, and social time all included, the workshop offers a colorful and low-pressure way to spend an evening in downtown Mystic surrounded by art, conversation, and experimentation.
Featured Details:

Alcohol ink art workshop
Taught by Carol Mann
Ceramic tile art project
Tasty drinks and supplies included
Social studio atmosphere
Beginner-friendly instruction

Sound Sails 2026 Season Opens
2026-05-29 09:00 - 17:00 | Maxwell’s Boat Yard, 135 Pearl Street, Noank, 06340, United States
Sound Sails 2026 Season Opens on May 29 as private sailing charters return to the waters around Mystic, Noank, and Fishers Island Sound for another summer along the southeastern Connecticut shoreline. Departing from Noank, Sound Sails Mystic offers private experiences designed for couples, families, and small groups looking to spend time on the water without the crowded feeling of larger public cruises. The charters move through the Mystic River and out into Fishers Island Sound with views of Watch Hill, Fishers Island, and Groton Long Point along the way.
What makes the experience stand out is the slower pace and quieter atmosphere once the boat reaches open water. On many charters, the engine can be shut off completely so the boat moves only by wind power, creating the kind of calm that’s increasingly hard to find during a busy New England summer weekend. Whether guests are longtime sailors or stepping aboard for the first time, the trips are built around flexibility and comfort rather than rigid tour schedules.
Sound Sails Mystic says every charter is customized around the group’s preferred pace, making the experience feel more personal and relaxed than traditional sightseeing cruises. With the summer boating season beginning to ramp up around Mystic and Noank, the opening of the 2026 charter season marks another sign that shoreline life is shifting fully into warm-weather mode.
Highlights:

Private sailing charters
Departures from Noank
Mystic River and Fishers Island Sound routes
Views of Watch Hill, Fishers Island, and Groton Long Point
Wind-powered sailing experience on many charters
Designed for couples, families, and small groups
Customized private experiences
Suitable for all ages and experience levels

Sound Sails
(860) 451-9333

First Annual Penguin Paddle Parade
2026-05-29 08:00 - 17:00 | Adventure Mystic, 15 Holmes Street, Mystic, 06355, United States
First Annual Penguin Paddle Parade brings Arctic fun to the Mystic River on Sunday, June 21, as Adventure Mystic launches one of the most unusual events of the summer season. Participants will paddle the Mystic River alongside a special Arctic-themed guest while a film crew from NotGeo documents the festivities. The event combines outdoor adventure, community fun, and a healthy dose of shoreline eccentricity in a way that feels uniquely Mystic.
Experienced paddlers are invited to bring their own stand-up paddleboard (SUP), kayak, or other paddle-powered vessel to take part in the parade. For those without equipment, a limited number of paddleboard and kayak rentals are available. Organizers note that the event is intended for experienced paddlers; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and advance registration is required, as no walk-up registrations will be accepted.
The parade concludes with an opportunity for participants to meet and take photos with the event’s featured penguin-themed guest. Portions of the proceeds will benefit charity, while organizers hope the inaugural event becomes a memorable summer tradition on the Mystic River. With limited rental availability and no rain date scheduled, participants are encouraged to register early.

Shunock River Brewery Live Music: Tyler Marshall
2026-05-28 17:30 - 21:00 | Shunock Brewery and Wood Fired Pizza, 2 Wyassup Rd, North Stonington, CT, 06359, United States
Shunock River Brewery Live Music brings a rotating lineup of local performers to Shunock River Brewery and Wood Fired Pizza, creating a consistent, easygoing live music experience in a small-town setting. Located in downtown North Stonington, the brewery pairs handcrafted beer with a casual, intimate atmosphere where live music feels close and personal. Each performance adds a different style and energy, making every visit a little different while keeping the same relaxed vibe.
The music is set against a backdrop of house-made craft beer, with options including flights, growlers, and rotating selections alongside occasional guest taps. The food side is built around wood fired pizza, with a customizable menu of classic toppings, along with options like quesadillas, pretzels, and build-your-own nachos. The combination keeps things simple and social, giving guests a reason to settle in for the full set rather than just stopping by.
As a weekly event, the live music nights at Shunock River Brewery offer a reliable local option for those looking to get out without overplanning. The setting leans into community, with a focus on good beer, straightforward food, and live performance in a space designed for gathering. Whether you’re there for the music, the pizza, or both, it’s a consistent go-to for a casual night out in North Stonington.

Deans Mill Farm's Beer Garden Music Series featuring T Ray
2026-05-28 17:30 - 20:30 | Deans Mill Farm, 1189 Pequot Trail, Stonington, CT, 06378, United States
Deans Mill Farm’s Beer Garden Music Series brings a recurring outdoor mix of live music, food trucks, and drinks to Deans Mill Farm, creating a seasonal gathering spot that runs through the warmer months. Built around a casual beer garden-style setup, the series offers a place to drop in, grab a drink, and spend time outdoors without needing a formal plan. The setting leans into open space and a relaxed pace, making it easy to stay for a set or settle in for the full experience.
Each event in the series features live performances from local artists, paired with rotating food trucks that bring a range of options for guests. Signature drinks and cold beverages are available throughout, reinforcing the beer garden atmosphere and giving the series a steady, social flow. The combination of music, food, and drinks creates a consistent format that works for families, groups, and anyone looking for a low-pressure outing.
The Deans Mill Farm’s Beer Garden Music Series is designed to be accessible and repeatable, encouraging return visits across the season. It’s free to attend and family-friendly, with guidelines in place to maintain the environment, including no outside alcohol and no animals. As a recurring local event, it offers a reliable option for live music and outdoor gathering in Stonington.

Sunday Supper Series: Corey Lein and Sean Carney
2026-05-27 08:00 - 17:00 | Engine Room, 14 Holmes Street, Mystic, 06355, United States
Sunday Supper Series: Corey Lein and Sean Carney brings another intimate culinary collaboration to Engine Room with a special multi-course dinner focused on one of the oldest techniques in cooking: fermentation. Chef de Cuisine Nick Teague welcomes guest chefs Corey Lein of The Port of Call and Sean Carney of Nana’s Westerly for an evening exploring how pickling, culturing, aging, and natural fermentation continue shaping modern food and flavor. The event is part of Engine Room’s ongoing Sunday Supper Series, which combines chef-driven storytelling, education, and collaborative dining in a more personal setting around the restaurant’s chef’s counter.
The four-course tasting menu will examine both the history and science behind fermentation while showing how these techniques continue influencing cuisines around the world today. Instead of treating fermentation like a trendy buzzword, the dinner leans into its deep roots in cooking traditions stretching back centuries. Through conversation and carefully designed courses, the chefs will explore how fermentation transforms ingredients, builds complexity, and creates entirely different layers of flavor that can’t be achieved any other way.
The result promises a slower, more intimate dining experience centered as much around conversation and discovery as the food itself. With limited seating and a focus on interaction between chefs and guests, the Sunday Supper Series has quietly become one of Mystic’s more interesting culinary experiences for diners looking for something beyond a standard restaurant night out.
Highlights:

Four-course tasting menu
Hosted at Engine Room’s chef’s counter
Focus on fermentation techniques and history
Featuring Chef Nick Teague, Corey Lein, and Sean Carney
Exploration of pickling, culturing, aging, and natural fermentation
Intimate dining experience
Limited seating

The Chorus of Westerly and Salt Marsh Opera presents the Brooklyn Youth Chorus
2026-05-26 08:00 - 17:00 | The George Kent Performance Hall, 119 High Street, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
The Chorus of Westerly and Salt Marsh Opera presents the Brooklyn Youth Chorus for an evening of internationally recognized choral performance at The George Kent Performance Hall on Saturday, June 6. Led by Founder and Artistic Director Dianne Berkun Menaker, Brooklyn Youth Chorus has earned a global reputation for pushing the artistic boundaries of contemporary choral music through collaborations, commissions, and large-scale performances that blend classical tradition with modern experimentation.
Over the past three decades, the ensemble has appeared on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including Carnegie Hall and Madison Square Garden, while collaborating with artists and organizations ranging from the New York Philharmonic to Sir Elton John and Bon Iver. Known for championing new music, the chorus has premiered more than 140 original works by influential contemporary composers, including Philip Glass and Caroline Shaw, helping establish the group as one of the country’s most innovative youth vocal ensembles.
The performance will also feature a special appearance by the Chorus of Westerly’s Junior and Full Choristers, members of the organization’s longstanding Children’s Program who regularly perform alongside the Symphonic Chorus throughout the year. The concert brings together regional arts organizations and nationally recognized performers for a night focused on musical excellence, youth performance, and the evolving future of choral music in New England and beyond.
Featured Organizations & Performers:

Brooklyn Youth Chorus
Chorus of Westerly Junior Choristers
Chorus of Westerly Full Choristers
Salt Marsh Opera
Dianne Berkun Menaker

Mystic Boat Adventures 2026
2026-05-26 08:00 - 17:00 | Mystic Boat Adventures, 145 Pearl Street, Noank, 06340, United States
Mystic Boat Adventures 2026 returns to the Mystic shoreline on June 1, kicking off another season of self-guided boating tours through one of coastal Connecticut’s most recognizable waterfront destinations. Based in Noank, the experience allows visitors to captain their own mini motor boat along the Mystic River and Fishers Island Sound while passing landmarks including Mystic Drawbridge, Mystic Seaport, local lighthouses, and some of the region’s most scenic waterfront homes and harbors.
Designed for couples, families, small groups, and visitors looking for a more hands-on way to experience the shoreline, the tours combine sightseeing with the freedom of operating your own small boat without requiring a boating license. Guided routes lead participants through calm coastal waters while offering a perspective of Mystic that most visitors only see from shore. Sunset tours are also available throughout the season, adding another layer of classic New England waterfront atmosphere to the experience.
The seasonal attraction has grown into a popular warm-weather activity for tourists and locals alike, especially during the busy summer months when Mystic’s boating culture becomes part of everyday life along the river. Organizers describe the tours as both beginner-friendly and scenic, making them appealing for first-time boaters, vacationers, and anyone looking to spend a few hours out on the water exploring southeastern Connecticut’s coastal landscape.
Features & Details:

Drive your own mini motor boat
Guided tours through Mystic River and Fishers Island Sound
1-hour and 3-hour guided tour options
Sunset tours available
No boating license required
Cooler and bottled water included
Drivers must be 18+ with valid driver’s license
Passengers ages 8+ welcome
Tours run weather permitting
Free parking available

East Lyme Memorial Day Parade
2026-05-25 14:00 - 16:00 | ST John’s Green, 400 Main Street, Niantic, 06357, United States
East Lyme Memorial Day Parade returns to Niantic on Memorial Day at 2 p.m., bringing residents and visitors together for one of the shoreline community’s most meaningful annual traditions. Beginning near St. John’s Green across from the Children’s Museum of Southeastern Connecticut, the parade proceeds down Main Street before concluding at East Lyme Town Hall. Along the route, spectators gather throughout downtown Niantic as veterans groups, community organizations, and local participants move through the center of town beneath American flags and the early-summer atmosphere of Memorial Day weekend.
The East Lyme Memorial Day Parade honors generations of Americans who have served in uniform, from the American Revolution through Operation Iraqi Freedom, while placing special focus on remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in military service. The event blends patriotic tradition with moments of reflection, creating an observance that carries emotional weight for many local families and veterans throughout SE Connecticut.
As the parade moves through Niantic’s shoreline downtown, the event also captures the sense of community that defines Memorial Day across the region. Families line Main Street, local organizations come together, and visitors pause from the holiday weekend to recognize the meaning behind the day itself. The annual parade continues to serve as both a community gathering and a tribute to the service and sacrifice of American military members across generations.

Memorial Day Weekend at Stonington Vineyards
2026-05-25 13:30 - 16:30, 2026-05-24 13:30 - 16:30 | Stonington Vineyards, 523 Taugwonk Rd, Stonington, CT, 06378, United States
Memorial Day Weekend at Stonington Vineyards turns the holiday into a three-day stretch of live music, wine, and time outdoors at Stonington Vineyards. Set across the long weekend, the event invites guests to settle in with a glass of wine and take in the relaxed vineyard atmosphere while enjoying a rotating lineup of local performers. It’s designed as an easygoing way to spend Memorial Day weekend, whether you stop by for a set or stay for the afternoon.
Each day features live music from 1:30 to 4:30 PM, with Dave Schena performing on Saturday, T-Tones Band on Sunday, and Dillon & Cooper closing out the weekend on Monday. The lineup offers a mix of styles that complement the setting, creating a steady rhythm of live entertainment across all three days.
Guests are encouraged to bring friends, relax on the grounds, and enjoy the vineyard’s wine selection throughout the weekend. With its open-air setting and consistent live music schedule, the event provides a simple, social way to mark the holiday. The combination of music, wine, and a scenic location makes it a reliable option for those looking to spend Memorial Day weekend outdoors.

Norwich Memorial Day Parade
2026-05-25 13:00 - 15:00 | St Patrick’s Cathedral, 213 Broadway, Norwich, 06360, United States
Norwich Memorial Day Parade returns Monday, May 25, with the annual City of Norwich observance stepping off at noon from in front of St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Broadway. The parade travels down Broadway toward Chelsea Parade, bringing residents, veterans groups, local organizations, and community members together for one of the city’s longstanding Memorial Day traditions. Spectators typically line the downtown route as marching groups and participants move through the historic streets of Norwich beneath American flags and the atmosphere of the holiday weekend.
The Norwich Memorial Day Parade blends the civic energy of a larger city procession with the reflective purpose at the heart of Memorial Day itself. Veterans organizations, community groups, and local participants come together to honor those who lost their lives in military service while continuing a tradition that remains deeply connected to Norwich’s history and military heritage. The route through downtown toward Chelsea Parade places the observance in the center of one of eastern Connecticut’s most historic urban settings.
Following the parade, the public is invited to remain at Chelsea Parade for the Memorial Day Ceremony beginning at approximately 1 p.m. near the war monuments. As part of the ceremony, the city’s old war memorial wreaths will be replaced in a moment of remembrance honoring fallen service members and continuing the day’s focus on reflection, sacrifice, and gratitude.

Mystic Memorial Day Parade 2026
2026-05-25 13:00 - 15:00 | CT
Begins at Bank Square in downtown Mystic and ends at the Mystic VFW on Rte 1.
Mystic Memorial Day Parade 2026 in downtown Mystic on Monday, May 25, bringing an afternoon of remembrance, patriotism, and small-town tradition to the shoreline village. Beginning at 1 p.m. in Bank Square, the parade winds through the heart of Mystic before concluding at the Mystic VFW on Route 1. Lined with American flags, spectators, and local families gathering along the sidewalks, the event remains one of the area’s most recognizable Memorial Day traditions.
Mystic Memorial Day Parade combines the ceremonial spirit of the holiday with the charm and atmosphere that make downtown Mystic such a gathering place during spring and summer weekends. Veterans groups, local organizations, and community participants move through the historic streets while residents and visitors pause from the usual holiday bustle to reflect on the meaning behind the day. The setting itself adds something special, with the parade route cutting through the busy waterfront district filled with shops, restaurants, and views of the Mystic River.
While the event carries a celebratory hometown atmosphere, the heart of the parade remains focused on honoring those who lost their lives in military service. Crowds typically gather early around Bank Square and along Route 1 to watch the procession pass through town before it reaches the Mystic VFW for the conclusion of the observance. For many Southeastern Connecticut families, the parade has become part of the rhythm of Memorial Day itself, marking the unofficial beginning of summer while grounding the holiday in remembrance and community connection.

Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round
2026-05-25 10:00 - 18:00 | Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round, 151-153 Bay St, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round returns for its pre-season opening beginning May 23, operating weekends only until the regular summer season begins June 13. Located in the center of Watch Hill, Rhode Island, the historic carousel remains one of the shoreline village’s most recognizable landmarks and enduring summer traditions. Families visiting the coastal destination each year often make a stop at the carousel part of their holiday weekend routine, with the sound of the ride and the atmosphere of Bay Street helping signal the unofficial start of summer in SW Rhode Island.
Believed to have been built in 1867 by Andrew Christian and the Charles W.F. Dare Co. of New York City, the Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round is widely considered the oldest continuously operating carousel in the United States. Local legend says a traveling carnival brought the carousel to Watch Hill in 1883 before abandoning it, allowing the attraction to become part of the village itself. Over more than 135 years, the carousel has survived major storms, including the devastating Hurricane of 1938, while remaining a beloved fixture of the Watch Hill waterfront community.
Today, the Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round continues to blend nostalgia, history, and classic seaside charm for generations of families returning each summer. The hand-carved horses, historic structure, and coastal surroundings create an experience that feels deeply tied to the character of Watch Hill itself, making the carousel one of the region’s most iconic family attractions during the warmer months.

Armed Forces Day at TreeTrails Adventures
2026-05-25 10:00 - 16:00 | CT
Armed Forces Day at TreeTrails Adventures celebrates military service with a special Memorial Day weekend promotion designed to get families and friends outdoors for climbing, ziplining, and aerial adventure courses at TreeTrails Adventures. Running May 23 through 25, the event invites active and retired military members to enjoy the park’s treetop obstacle courses with a buy-one-get-one climbing offer aimed at turning the holiday weekend into a shared outdoor experience.
As part of the Armed Forces Day promotion, military guests can climb free with the purchase of a companion ticket by using the promo code “AmericaStrong” during online checkout. The offer encourages participants to bring family members, friends, or fellow service members along for a day of rope bridges, zip lines, elevated trails, and outdoor challenges set high above the forest floor. Guests are reminded to bring valid military identification when checking in at the park.
What makes the event stand out is its focus on shared experience rather than ceremony. Instead of a formal observance, TreeTrails leans into adventure, teamwork, and spending meaningful time outdoors together during one of the busiest kickoff weekends of the summer season. Between the climbing courses, wooded setting, and family-friendly atmosphere, the event creates a different kind of Memorial Day weekend activity built around movement, laughter, and appreciation for military service.

Moodus Memorial Day Parade
2026-05-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Moodus Municipal Building, 1 Plains Rd, Moodus, 06469, United States
Moodus Memorial Day Parade takes place Monday, May 25, at 10 a.m., bringing community members together in Moodus to honor fallen service members during Memorial Day observances in eastern Connecticut. The parade begins at the Municipal Office Complex on Plains Road before proceeding through town toward the American Legion on Neptune Avenue. Families, veterans organizations, local officials, and residents are expected to gather along the route as the community pauses to recognize the meaning behind the holiday.
Like many traditional Memorial Day observances across small towns in Connecticut, the Moodus Memorial Day Parade blends hometown atmosphere with remembrance and respect for military sacrifice. Marching participants, veterans, and community groups move through town while spectators line the streets carrying flags and gathering with neighbors during one of the region’s longstanding holiday traditions. The route toward the American Legion gives the event a ceremonial focus tied closely to local veterans and military remembrance.
Memorial Day parades throughout the region continue to serve as an important opportunity for communities to come together in reflection while marking the unofficial beginning of summer across New England. In Moodus, the parade offers residents and visitors a quieter and more traditional Memorial Day observance centered on remembrance, community connection, and honoring those who gave their lives in service to the country.

Noank Memorial Day Parade
2026-05-25 10:00 - 12:00 | CT
Noank Memorial Day Parade returns Monday, May 25, beginning at 10 a.m. on Main Street before looping through the village and concluding at Noank Valley Cemetery for a Memorial Day ceremony honoring fallen service members. The annual shoreline tradition brings together veterans groups, local families, and residents beneath American flags and the quiet maritime atmosphere that defines the historic village of Noank. Parade route closures are expected beginning around 9:15 a.m. as the community gathers for one of the area’s longstanding Memorial Day observances.
This year’s ceremony will feature retired U.S. Navy Capt. Mike Hewitt as the guest speaker. Hewitt, who served in the Navy from 1964 through 1990 and commanded multiple submarines during his career, plans to reflect on military sacrifice, the region’s submarine history, and the deep connection between Noank, Groton, Electric Boat, and the Navy’s submarine community.
The Noank Memorial Day Parade continues to balance the atmosphere of a traditional New England village gathering with the deeper purpose of remembrance and reflection. Following the parade, attendees will gather at Noank Valley Cemetery, where veterans from generations of American conflicts are honored in a ceremony rooted in gratitude, community history, and military service.

The Taftville Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony
2026-05-25 10:00 - 12:00 | American Legion Memorial Field, corner of South 2nd Ave. & South B St., Taftville, 06360, United States
The Taftville Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony returns Monday, May 25, at 10 a.m., as Taftville’s American Legion Post #104 and VFW Post #2212 gather the community to honor fallen service members and remember local veterans who never returned home from war. The annual observance takes place at American Legion Memorial Field at the corner of South 2nd Avenue and South B Street next to the Knights of Columbus Hall. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will move indoors to American Legion Post #104 on Merchants Avenue.
Each year, the Taftville Memorial Day observance places special focus on a local veteran who lost their life in military service. This year’s honoree is Herman A. Duhaime, who was listed as Missing In Action on December 2, 1950, during the Korean War before later being declared deceased in 1954. Family members of Duhaime are expected to attend this year’s ceremony, adding a deeply personal connection to the morning’s remembrance and tribute.
The annual gathering remains one of Taftville’s most meaningful Memorial Day traditions, bringing veterans organizations, local families, and community members together in reflection and gratitude. While many Memorial Day events carry a celebratory hometown atmosphere, the Taftville ceremony keeps the focus firmly on honoring sacrifice, preserving memory, and recognizing those from the community who never made it home.

The Sprague Memorial Day Parade
2026-05-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Jaypro Sports, 14 North Main St. (Route 97), Baltic, 06330, United States
The Sprague Memorial Day Parade returns Monday, May 25, at 10 a.m., bringing residents and visitors together for a morning of remembrance and community tradition in the village of Baltic. The parade begins on Route 97 near the former Baltic Mill lot, now home to the new Jaypro Sports location at 14 North Main Street, before winding through the village along Main Street, River Street, and back toward the center of town. The route concludes at War Memorial Park at the intersection of Main Street and West Main Street.
As the procession moves through Baltic, spectators gather throughout the village to watch veterans groups, local organizations, firefighters, and community participants honor those who lost their lives in military service. The parade’s route through the historic mill village setting gives the observance a distinctly eastern Connecticut character, combining small-town Memorial Day tradition with moments of reflection and patriotism along the way.
Sponsored by American Legion Post 85, the Baltic Fire Department, and the Town of Sprague, the annual parade remains one of the community’s longstanding Memorial Day observances. Families and residents line the streets beneath American flags as the event concludes at War Memorial Park, where the focus turns fully toward remembrance, gratitude, and honoring fallen service members.

Old Saybrook Memorial Day Parade
2026-05-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Stop & Shop Old Saybrook, 665 Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook, 06475, United States
Old Saybrook Memorial Day Parade returns on Memorial Day morning with a community procession and ceremony honoring the service and sacrifice of American military members. Parade assembly begins at 9:30 a.m. at the Stop & Shop parking lot off Elm Street before stepping off promptly at 10 a.m. The route travels across Route 1 to Main Street and continues toward the Veterans Memorial Monuments on the Town Green, where the morning’s memorial program will take place.
The annual Old Saybrook Memorial Day Parade brings together veterans groups, local organizations, families, and residents for one of the shoreline town’s most meaningful civic traditions. Spectators typically gather throughout downtown as marching groups move through the historic center of town beneath American flags and the atmosphere of Memorial Day weekend along the Connecticut shoreline. While the event carries the familiar feeling of a hometown parade, its focus remains firmly rooted in remembrance and honoring those who lost their lives in military service.
This year’s memorial program will feature Gil Simmons, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and chief meteorologist for WTNH, serving as master of ceremonies. In the event of rain, the parade may be canceled, but the memorial ceremony will still be held at 10 a.m. inside Old Saybrook Fire Department headquarters at 310 Main Street, ensuring the community’s observance continues regardless of weather.

North Stonington Memorial Day Parade
2026-05-25 10:00 - 12:00 | North Stonington Village, CT 2, Main Street, Wyassup, Babcock, Caswell, and Rocky Hollow Roads, North Stonington, 06359, United States
North Stonington Memorial Day Parade returns on Monday, May 25, bringing residents and visitors together for a morning of remembrance and community tradition in North Stonington Village. Beginning at 10 a.m., the parade winds through the village before concluding with a Memorial Ceremony at Memorial Park. The annual observance remains one of the town’s longstanding Memorial Day traditions, drawing families, veterans groups, and local organizations together to honor those who lost their lives in military service.
The parade route moves through the quiet village setting that gives North Stonington its distinctive small-town New England character, with spectators gathering along the streets beneath American flags and late-spring skies. While the atmosphere carries the familiar feeling of a hometown Memorial Day gathering, the focus of the day remains centered on remembrance, reflection, and gratitude for the sacrifices made by American service members across generations.
Visitors attending the North Stonington Memorial Parade should plan for temporary road closures beginning at 9:45 a.m. Route 2 will be closed between the rotary and Kady’s Farm Stand during the parade. The event concludes at Memorial Park with a ceremony honoring fallen service members and continuing the community’s Memorial Day observance.

Westerly Pawcatuck Memorial Day Parade 2026
2026-05-25 09:30 - 12:00 | CT
Westerly Pawcatuck Memorial Day Parade 2026 returns on Monday, May 25, bringing one of the region’s longest-standing patriotic traditions through the streets of Westerly and Pawcatuck. Beginning at 9:30 a.m., the parade moves from behind the Pawcatuck Shopping Center along Pequot Trail before making its way through both communities with multiple memorial stops and ceremonies honoring fallen service members. More than just a parade, the morning carries the emotional weight and reflection that define Memorial Day observances across New England.
Westerly Pawcatuck Memorial Day Parade blends traditional hometown pageantry with moments of remembrance that connect directly to the area’s military history and community roots. Marching groups, veterans organizations, local officials, and community participants travel together toward the War Memorial at the corner of Route 1 and Pequot Trail for the first formal ceremony of the morning. The procession then continues toward the bridge crossing the Pawcatuck River, where flowers of remembrance are placed during a second ceremony marking the Connecticut and Rhode Island border shared by the two closely connected communities.
The morning concludes with a final Memorial Day ceremony at the gazebo in Wilcox Park, where attendees gather beneath the trees and open skies of downtown Westerly for speeches, reflection, and tribute. The atmosphere throughout the event tends to balance solemn remembrance with the unmistakable feeling of a traditional small-town Memorial Day, where families line the streets, veterans are greeted with applause, and generations come together to honor those who served. For many local residents, it remains one of the defining community events of the holiday weekend.
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Griswold Memorial Day Parade
2026-05-25 09:00 - 11:00 | Fanning Park, 38 E Main St #14, Jewett City, 06351, United States
returns Monday, May 25, with the town’s annual celebration taking place at 9 a.m. at Fanning Park on Main Street in Jewett City. The longtime community tradition brings residents, veterans groups, local organizations, and families together for a morning centered on remembrance, patriotism, and honoring those who lost their lives in military service.
Held in the heart of Jewett City, the Griswold Memorial Day Parade carries the familiar atmosphere of a classic small-town New England observance, where community members gather beneath American flags and along Main Street to recognize the meaning behind the holiday. The event serves as both a tribute to fallen service members and a moment for the community to come together in reflection and gratitude.
As Memorial Day celebrations unfold across SE Connecticut, the Griswold Memorial Day Parade remains an important local tradition rooted in honoring military sacrifice and preserving the spirit of community remembrance. The morning observance at Fanning Park continues to bring generations together while marking the significance of Memorial Day throughout the region.

Journey
2026-05-24 19:30 - 21:00 | PeoplesBank Arena, 1 Civic Center Plaza, Hartford, CT, 06103, United States
Journey on tour today isn’t the same lineup fans remember from the late ’70s or even the Steve Perry era—but it’s still anchored by one constant. At the center is Neal Schon, the founding guitarist who has carried the band’s sound from the beginning. Alongside him is longtime keyboardist Jonathan Cain, a key songwriter behind many of their biggest hits, and lead vocalist Arnel Pineda, who has fronted the band since 2007 and brought a new generation into the fold.
Rounding out the current touring lineup is a tight group of working musicians who keep the live show full and dynamic. Drummer Deen Castronovo handles both rhythm and backing vocals, while bassist Todd Jensen locks in the low end. Keyboardist and vocalist Jason Derlatka adds depth to the band’s layered sound, helping recreate the signature harmonies and textures fans expect.
What’s interesting about Journey now is that it feels less like a fixed lineup and more like a continuation of the band’s legacy. Over the decades, members have come and gone, but the core identity—those big hooks, soaring vocals, and arena-sized emotion—has stayed intact. This current version of Journey leans into that history while still delivering a polished, high-energy live show, especially on their recent farewell-style tours, which are built as a celebration of everything the band has been for more than 50 years.

Memorial Day Candlelight Vigil at the Parade Plaza
2026-05-24 19:30 - 20:30 | Parade Plaza, State Street &, S Water St, New London, 06320, United States
Memorial Day Candlelight Vigil at the Parade Plaza in New London on Sunday, May 24, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., offering a community evening of remembrance honoring military members who lost their lives in service to the country. Held in downtown New London along State Street, the annual vigil invites residents, veterans, active-duty service members, and military families to gather beneath luminaries for a ceremony focused on reflection, gratitude, and honoring sacrifice during Memorial Day weekend. Admission is free, and the public is encouraged to attend.
The Memorial Day Candlelight Vigil will feature remarks from local leaders along with the presentation of colors by the New London High School NJROTC Color Guard as the ceremony begins at 7:30 p.m. Luminaries will be available beginning at 6:45 p.m., helping transform Parade Plaza into a quiet memorial space in the center of downtown New London. Corsages will also be provided for veterans attending the event in recognition of their service.
This year’s ceremony specifically honors Cal Robertson, a U.S. Navy veteran and peace activist who passed away in January 2026. Born in Norwich and raised in eastern Connecticut, Robertson enlisted in the Navy as a medical corpsman in 1964 before later becoming involved in peace activism following his military service. In the event of rain, the ceremony will move indoors to Union Train Station in New London.

Memorial Day Weekend Lobster Boil & BBQ at the Weekapaug Inn
2026-05-24 18:00 - 20:00 | Weekapaug Inn, 25 Spray Rock Rd, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Memorial Day Weekend Lobster Boil & BBQ at the Weekapaug Inn brings one of coastal Rhode Island’s most picturesque early-summer traditions back to the edge of Quonochontaug Pond for an evening built around seafood, smoke, live music, and waterfront views. Set against the relaxed elegance of the inn’s lawn and fire pit areas, the event captures the feeling of New England easing into summer, where lobster boils, cocktails, and sunset gatherings feel less like a dinner and more like a seasonal ritual. Guests can expect an atmosphere that balances upscale coastal dining with the easygoing charm of a backyard shoreline celebration.
Memorial Day Weekend Lobster Boil & BBQ at the Weekapaug Inn centers around local ingredients and wood-fired cooking, with Stonington lobsters taking the spotlight alongside smoked brisket, barbecue pulled pork, grilled fish tacos, and classic comfort dishes elevated with thoughtful details. Throughout the evening, guests can move between buffet stations, smoker setups, and fire pit grilling areas while live music drifts across the property. The open bar and scenic pond backdrop add to the experience, creating the kind of long, slow holiday weekend evening where people linger over cocktails, plates piled high with seafood, and conversations stretching well past sunset.
What makes the event stand out is the combination of luxury and coastal authenticity. The smell of wood smoke and grilled lobster fills the air while guests roast s’mores by the fire pit and watch the fading light over Quonnie Pond. It feels deeply rooted in Rhode Island shoreline culture, celebrating both the region’s local waters and farm ingredients without losing the laid-back warmth that makes Weekapaug Inn such a destination during the warmer months. For visitors looking to officially welcome summer with a memorable food-centered experience, this holiday weekend gathering checks nearly every box.
Adults – $165
Children (4-12) – $75
Children (3 and under) – Complimentary
Pond Club Members – $145

Menu
Salads and Chowdah

New England Clam Chowder with Oyster Crackers
Mixed Green Salad with Pickled Strawberries, Crumbled Feta, Fennel, and Mint
Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese with Multigrain Croutons, Pickled Onion, and Basil
Red Skin Potato Salad with Bacon, Pepper, Onion, Celery, and Dijonnaise

From the Smoker

Smoked Chicken with Bourbon BBQ and Pickled Fresno Hot Sauce
Smoked Beef Brisket with House Steak Sauce and Roasted Red Pepper Chimichurri
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with Pickles and Carolina Gold BBQ
Mac n Cheese with Smoked Gouda, Sharp Cheddar, and Scallion
Brussels Sprout Slaw with Shaved Carrot, Celery Root, and Celery Seed Dressing
Pimento Cheese Grits with Stone Ground Grits and Pimento Cheese
Cornbread with Maine Grains Cornmeal and Hot Honey
Dill Pickles

From the Fire Pit

Stonington Lobsters Boiled or Grilled with Drawn Butter and Tarragon Chimichurri
Grilled Fish Taco Station with Corn Tortillas, Salsa Verde, Pickled Onion, Cilantro, and Crema
Grilled Corn Station with Crema, Butter, Cotija, Bacon, Cilantro, Tajin, and Lime

Desserts

Smores Tarts
Del’s Lemonade Cupcakes
Dave’s Coffee Flourless Chocolate Torte
Assorted Macarons

Memorial Day BBQ with Chef Mike Solomonov at the Ocean House
2026-05-24 17:00 - 20:00 | Ocean House, 1 Bluff Ave, Watch Hill, RI, 02891, United States
Memorial Day BBQ with Chef Mike Solomonov at the Ocean House on Sunday, May 24, bringing acclaimed chef and author Mike Solomonov to the Rhode Island shoreline for a beachfront kickoff to summer 2026. Held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Ocean House Dune Cottage in Watch Hill, the event combines upscale coastal atmosphere with the relaxed energy of a Memorial Day weekend barbecue overlooking the ocean. Guests are invited to gather by the beach for an evening centered around food, hospitality, and the start of the summer season in SW Rhode Island.
Chef Mike Solomonov, known for the award-winning restaurant Zahav and the cookbook Zahav: Home: Cooking for Friends and Family, has become one of the country’s most recognizable culinary figures through his modern approach to Israeli and Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine. The Memorial Day BBQ offers attendees a chance to experience Solomonov’s cooking style in a more casual outdoor setting while enjoying the scenery and hospitality that have made Ocean House one of the region’s premier luxury destinations.
Set at the Dune Cottage just steps from the shoreline, the evening blends beachfront summer atmosphere with elevated dining and live-fire barbecue energy. As Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial beginning of summer across the coast, the event captures the feeling of gathering with friends and family near the water while celebrating the season ahead in one of Rhode Island’s most iconic seaside communities.
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Shunock River Brewery Live Music: Nick Anderson and Longtime Pickers
2026-05-24 16:30 - 21:00 | Shunock Brewery and Wood Fired Pizza, 2 Wyassup Rd, North Stonington, CT, 06359, United States

Deans Mill Farm's Beer Garden Music Series featuring Luke & Mike
2026-05-24 14:30 - 17:30 | Deans Mill Farm, 1189 Pequot Trail, Stonington, CT, 06378, United States

Plainfield Memorial Day Parade
2026-05-24 13:00 - 15:00 | Plainfield Public Schools, Canterbury Road (Route 14A), Plainfield, 06374, United States
Plainfield Memorial Day Parade returns Sunday, May 24, bringing residents, veterans groups, local organizations, and families together for an afternoon of remembrance and community tradition in Plainfield. The parade begins at 1 p.m. after forming at Plainfield Public Schools on Canterbury Road (Route 14A). From there, the procession travels east along Canterbury Road before continuing onto Railroad Avenue and Babcock Avenue, ultimately concluding at Veterans Park on Community Avenue.
As the parade moves through town, spectators typically gather along the route to watch marching groups, community participants, and veterans organizations make their way toward Veterans Park for the conclusion of the observance. The event blends the atmosphere of a classic small-town Memorial Day parade with the deeper purpose of honoring those who lost their lives in military service. Road closures along Route 14A between Cemetery Road and Norwich Road (Route 12) will begin at approximately 12:45 p.m., with traffic diverted during the event.
The Plainfield Police Department and Plainfield Highway Department will assist with traffic control and parade operations throughout the afternoon to help guide residents and visitors safely around the route. While the parade marks part of Memorial Day weekend across eastern Connecticut, its focus remains centered on remembrance, patriotism, and community reflection.
