The CT Beacon

Brickwrecks: Sunken Ships in LEGO Bricks
2026-05-15 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-05-16 11:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Mystic Seaport, 75 Greenmanville Ave, Mystic, CT, ,06355-1946,, United States
Brickwrecks: Sunken Ships in LEGO Bricks drops visitors into centuries of maritime mystery and disaster at Mystic Seaport Museum.. The internationally touring exhibition combines massive LEGO® ship recreations with real maritime history, creating an experience that feels part museum exhibit, part interactive adventure. As the first American stop for the exhibition, Mystic Seaport becomes the latest host for a showcase that has previously appeared at major maritime museums in Europe and Australia.
The exhibit features eleven detailed LEGO® models recreating famous shipwrecks and maritime disasters spanning thousands of years, including the Titanic, the Vasa, Franklin’s Arctic expedition ships Terror and Erebus, and the ancient Uluburun trading vessel. Created in partnership with LEGO® Certified Professional Ryan “The Brickman” McNaught, the displays combine historical storytelling with surprisingly intricate engineering and visual detail. Some models even include cross-section cutaways revealing what happened beneath the waterline.
Interactive experiences throughout the exhibit invite visitors to test survival scenarios, operate a remote underwater vehicle, experiment with ship stability, and build LEGO® creations of their own. Alongside the models are replica artifacts, archaeological tools, and multimedia displays exploring how modern researchers investigate shipwrecks and what those discoveries reveal about trade, exploration, disaster, and human history. The result is an exhibit that works equally well for families, history buffs, LEGO® fans, and anyone who still secretly wants to touch every museum display.

Hunts Brook Farm’s Annual Seedling Plant Sale
2026-05-15 12:00 - 18:00, 2026-05-16 08:00 - 16:00 | Hunts Brook Farm, 108 Hunts Brook Road, Waterford, 06375, United States
Hunts Brook Farm’s Annual Seedling Plant Sale returns for a three-day celebration of gardening season, offering locally grown vegetable plants, herbs, flowers, and fruit-bearing varieties at Hunts Brook Farm. For gardeners across southeastern Connecticut, the annual sale has become something of a spring tradition, marking the unofficial start of the planting season as visitors arrive looking for healthy starter plants grown organically. Rows of seedlings, fresh greenery, and early-season farm atmosphere transform the property into a destination for both experienced gardeners and first-time growers eager to get their gardens underway.
The sale focuses on practical garden favorites alongside more unique varieties, giving shoppers opportunities to browse vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruiting plants selected for home gardens and backyard growing. Hunts Brook Farm has built a reputation for sustainable farming practices and community agriculture, and the annual plant sale reflects the same hands-on, local farming spirit. Organizers are also offering mushroom logs for guests interested in growing their own shiitake mushrooms at home, adding another layer to the event for gardeners looking to experiment beyond traditional planting beds.
Hunts Brook Farm’s Annual Seedling Plant Sale takes place Friday, May 15, from noon to 6 p.m., Saturday, May 16, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, May 17, from 9 a.m. to noon. Visitors are encouraged to bring boxes or crates to help transport plants safely. The farm also announced that the Hunts Brook Farm market officially opens for the season on June 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., continuing the farm’s spring and summer community offerings.
Rules and Suggestions:
• Plants are grown using organic methods
• Visitors are encouraged to bring boxes or crates for carrying plants
• Mushroom logs for growing shiitake mushrooms will also be available
• The sale includes vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruit-bearing plants
• The Hunts Brook Farm market opens for the season June 13

(Sustainable) Wine Tasting at Cove Ledge Liquors
2026-05-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Cove Ledge Liqours, 147 Water Street, Stonington, CT, 06378, United States
(Sustainable) Wine Tasting at Cove Ledge Liquors brings small-batch wines, coastal atmosphere, and an easygoing Friday evening tasting experience to Cove Ledge Liquors on May 15 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Set inside one of the shoreline’s most charming village settings, the event focuses on sustainable wines produced through organic, biodynamic, and small-scale winemaking practices, offering guests the chance to sample bottles that feel especially suited for warmer weather and relaxed summer gatherings. The tasting will be led by Kim from Ungrafted Selections, who will guide guests through the featured lineup and discuss the wineries and production styles behind each pour.
The event leans into the growing interest in wines made with lower-intervention and environmentally conscious methods, but the atmosphere itself is expected to stay approachable rather than overly technical or formal. Guests will have opportunities to sample a curated collection of wines ranging from crisp whites and rosés to lighter reds, all selected with an emphasis on sustainability and small-batch production. In a place like Stonington Borough, where quiet streets, harbor views, and old New England charm shape the mood of an evening, the tasting feels naturally aligned with the setting around it.
Located in the heart of Stonington Borough, Cove Ledge Liquors has become a familiar stop for wine lovers and shoreline residents looking for carefully selected bottles and smaller producer offerings that don’t always appear in larger liquor stores. The tasting takes place Friday, May 15, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and offers a relaxed way to ease into the weekend while discovering wines focused on sustainability, craftsmanship, and seasonal drinking.
Rules and Suggestions:
• The tasting takes place Friday, May 15 from 5–7 p.m.
• Featured wines focus on organic, biodynamic, and small-batch production
• The tasting will be led by Kim from Ungrafted Selections
• Guests should expect a casual tasting atmosphere rather than a formal wine class
SEO Description:

Timeless Blooms: Sola Wood Flower Wreath Workshop
2026-05-15 17:30 - 19:30 | Mystic Museum of Art, 9 Water Street, Mystic, 06355, United States
Timeless Blooms: Sola Wood Flower Wreath Workshop offers a hands-on floral design experience centered around creating spring wreaths using long-lasting sola wood flowers. Led by instructor Lisa Kelly, the workshop guides participants through the process of building decorative wreaths that combine the look of fresh florals with materials designed to last season after season without fading or wilting.
During the session, guests will learn how to stem and arrange sola wood flowers onto either a traditional grapevine wreath base or a modern wood-bead frame. Instruction covers everything from floral preparation and composition to securing arrangements properly for balance and durability. The workshop is designed to be approachable for beginners while still offering enough creative flexibility for participants to personalize their final wreath design.
One of the biggest appeals of sola wood flowers is their permanence. Unlike fresh flowers, the handcrafted blooms maintain their appearance indefinitely when kept dry, making them ideal for home décor or gifts that continue looking fresh long after spring ends. All materials are included through a separate $40 supply fee paid directly to the instructor, and each participant leaves with a completed wreath ready to display immediately after the workshop concludes.

Branded - Country That Rocks
2026-05-15 18:00 - 20:00 | Foxwoods, 350 Trolley Line Boulevard, Mashantucket, CT, 06338, United States
At the Centrale in Fox Tower.
Branded country rock band will be appearing at Centrale in the Fox Tower.

Sip ‘n’ Spin Pottery Workshops (Ages 21+)
2026-05-15 18:00 - 20:00 | Stonington COMO Pottery Studio, 45 Cutler Street, Stonington, CT, 06378, United States
Sip ‘N’ Spin Pottery Workshops offer a hands-on creative night for adults looking to trade screens and stress for clay, conversation, and a little wine on Friday, May 15, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Designed as a relaxed social workshop for ages 21 and over, the event combines pottery instruction with a bring-your-own-drink atmosphere that turns the evening into part art class, part night out.
The workshop begins with a professional wheel-throwing demonstration before participants move into creating their own pottery pieces either on the wheel or through handbuilding techniques. Instructors guide guests through the process step-by-step, making the experience approachable even for complete beginners who have never touched a pottery wheel before. Clay and firing for up to three finished creations are included as part of the workshop.
What makes Sip ‘N’ Spin stand out is the balance between creativity and atmosphere. Rather than a formal class setting, the evening leans into a casual, social energy where guests can laugh through uneven bowls, experiment with clay, and enjoy drinks while trying something new. Whether it turns into date night, friends night out, or simply an excuse to unplug for a couple of hours, the workshop offers one of the more unique creative experiences happening on the shoreline this month.

Glow Nights in May at TreeTrails Adventures
2026-05-15 18:00 - 22:00 | TreeTrails Adventures, 715 Noank Ledyard Road, Mystic, 06355, United States
Glow Nights in May brings a completely different atmosphere to TreeTrails Adventures Mystic, turning the aerial adventure park into a glowing nighttime playground every Friday evening throughout May. Running from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., the experience transforms the wooded climbing courses into a colorful mix of lights, music, and movement as the sun goes down over Mystic. Instead of the usual daytime ropes-course vibe, the park takes on the feeling of an outdoor nighttime festival tucked into the trees.
Glow Nights in May mixes adventure with a party-like atmosphere, complete with glow bracelets, glowing necklaces, music, and illuminated climbing trails suspended high above the forest floor. Guests can move through rope bridges, zip lines, and aerial obstacles while surrounded by shifting lights that make the entire park feel almost dreamlike after dark. The experience leans heavily into the fun of summer nights arriving early, blending adrenaline and playful energy in a way that feels especially geared toward groups of friends, couples, teens, and adventurous families looking for something different to do on a Friday night.
The event has become one of TreeTrails’ most popular seasonal experiences, especially as warmer weather returns to the Connecticut shoreline region. Reservations are strongly recommended because Glow in the Park nights tend to fill quickly once people start sharing videos and photos online. Between the music drifting through the trees, the glowing equipment, and the excitement of climbing through the forest at night, the event delivers the kind of memorable outdoor experience that feels closer to an adventure attraction than a traditional ropes course.

Dave Attell
2026-05-15 19:30 - 21:00 | Foxwoods, 350 Trolley Line Boulevard, Mashantucket, CT, 06338, United States
PLEASE NOTE: This show is 18+.
Dave Attell is one of the most respected and relentlessly funny stand-ups working today, and 2024 only added to that reputation. His latest Netflix special, *HOT CROSS BUNS*, premiered in March to strong viewership and sharp reviews, reminding fans exactly why he’s long been considered a comedian’s comedian.
He first broke through as the host of *INSOMNIAC WITH DAVE ATTELL* on Comedy Central, a late-night staple that turned him into a cult favorite. Since then, he’s popped up just about everywhere—*BUMPING MICS* with Jeff Ross on Netflix, HBO’s *CRASHING* with Pete Holmes, and Hulu’s *LIFE & BETH* alongside Amy Schumer, Michael Rapaport, and Michael Cera.
His own projects, including *DAVE’S OLD PORN*, *DAVE ATTELL’S COMEDY UNDERGROUND*, and the special *ROAD WORK* (now streaming on Paramount+), all showcase the same thing: a sharp, unfiltered voice that cuts right through the noise.
On the film side, Attell has appeared in *POOTIE TANG*, *FUNNY PEOPLE*, *SCARY MOVIE 4*, *LOS ENCHILADAS*, and TRAINWRECK and I FEEL PRETTY with Amy Schumer. His TV credits stretch across everything from *THE SIMPSONS* and *BOB’S BURGERS* to *ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT*, *LOUIE*, and *EVERYBODY LOVES RAYMOND*.
Entertainment Weekly once named him one of the “25 Funniest People in America,” and he’s been backing that up ever since. When he’s not on tour, you’ll usually find him doing what he does best—owning the room at the Comedy Cellar, where he remains a fixture.
Next up, Attell appears in the feature *IS THIS THING ON?*, starring Will Arnett and directed by Bradley Cooper.

Bored Teachers Comedy Tour
2026-05-15 19:30 - 21:00 | Garde Arts Center, 325 State Street, New London, CT, 06320, United States
Bored Teachers Comedy Tour brings a night of classroom-inspired comedy to the Garde Arts Center, turning everyday school chaos into a full live show. Built around the experiences teachers know all too well, the performance blends stand-up, storytelling, and sketch-style humor that pulls directly from life in the classroom. It’s designed as a night out that trades lesson plans and grading for laughs and shared experiences.
Created by Bored Teachers, the tour has grown into a global hit, selling out theaters across the U.S., Canada, and beyond. With more than a billion video views and a massive online following, the group has built a reputation for delivering relatable, high-energy comedy that resonates with educators. The material covers everything from student behavior and staff meetings to the small moments that only teachers fully understand, creating a show that feels both specific and widely relatable.
Live, the Bored Teachers troupe keeps the pace fast and the tone light, mixing new material with crowd-favorite themes that consistently land with audiences. The result is a performance that balances humor with recognition, giving teachers and school staff a chance to unwind and connect through shared experiences. As part of their “Is It Friday Yet?!” tour, this stop offers a focused, comedy-driven event tailored to the education community.

Dance Night at The Knick with Eight to the Bar & UNITED Big Band and Jazz Combo
2026-05-15 19:30 - 21:00 | Knickerbocker Music Center, 35 Railroad Ave, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Dance Night at The Knick with Eight to the Bar & UNITED Big Band and Jazz Combo brings swing, Motown, jazz, and dance-floor energy to Knickerbocker Music Center for a lively evening hosted by The UNITED. Headlined by Eight to the Bar, the event also celebrates the release of Jazz on a School Night, a new album performed by students in The UNITED’s Big Band and Jazz Combo programs.
Known for blending swing, boogie-woogie, rhythm and blues, and Motown into a high-energy live experience, Eight to the Bar has built a devoted following through decades of touring across the United States, Europe, and the Caribbean. Their polished arrangements, strong musicianship, and female-led vocals create the kind of classic dance-hall atmosphere that keeps crowds moving from the first song to the last. Over the years, the band has shared stages with artists including Ray Charles and Roy Orbison.
Opening performances from The UNITED Big Band and Jazz Combo spotlight young musicians from schools across the region, performing an energetic mix of jazz, funk, swing, and horn-driven favorites inspired by groups like Tower of Power and Earth, Wind & Fire. Album sales from Jazz on a School Night will support The UNITED’s jazz education programs, adding a strong community element to a night already built around live music, dancing, and celebrating regional talent.

Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill at Ivoryton Playhouse
2026-05-15 19:30 - 21:30 | Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main Street, Ivoryton, CT, 06422, United States
Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill at Ivoryton Playhouse brings the music, heartbreak, and haunting presence of Billie Holiday to the stage in a powerful production of the Tony Award-winning play set during one of the singer’s final performances in 1959. Blending live music with intimate storytelling, the production recreates the atmosphere of a small Philadelphia nightclub while exploring the life and emotional weight carried by one of jazz’s most influential voices.
The show unfolds as Holiday performs a selection of her most iconic songs, including “Strange Fruit” and “God Bless the Child,” weaving memories, humor, pain, and vulnerability between performances. Rather than presenting a traditional biography, the play places audiences directly inside the emotional atmosphere of a late-career Billie Holiday concert, where the music and the personal struggles behind it become inseparable. The result feels less like a history lesson and more like witnessing a legend trying to hold herself together under the spotlight.
Known for staging intimate productions inside one of Connecticut’s most beloved historic theaters, Ivoryton Playhouse provides the perfect setting for a story built around closeness, mood, and live performance. For theatergoers, jazz fans, and anyone drawn to stories about artists fighting through personal darkness, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill offers an emotionally charged night that lingers long after the final song ends.

Anthony Rodia at Mohegan Sun
2026-05-15 20:00 - 21:30 | Mohegan Sun, 1 Mohegan Sun Blvd, Uncasville, 06382, United States
Anthony Rodia at Mohegan Sun is bringing his rapid-fire Italian-American family comedy and viral internet energy to the Cabaret Theatre for two nights of stand-up on May 15 and 16 at 8 p.m. Known for turning everyday frustrations into full-blown comedy explosions, Rodia has built a loyal following by mixing sharp storytelling with the kind of loud, brutally honest family dynamics that instantly feel familiar to audiences. Inside the more intimate Cabaret setting, fans can expect a performance that feels personal, chaotic, and nonstop funny from the moment he hits the stage.
Anthony Rodia at the Mohegan Sun arrives during a career surge that has transformed the former luxury car dealership finance manager into one of the most recognizable touring comedians in the country. Since returning to stand-up full time in 2019, Rodia has exploded online with more than 900,000 social media followers and millions of YouTube views. His “Road Rage Wednesday” videos became a breakout hit during quarantine, while recurring characters like Uncle Vinny and Zia Lucia turned into fan-favorite personalities that helped define his style of “off the boat” comedy. The humor comes fast and loud, packed with observations about marriage, parenting, family gatherings, traffic, and the small annoyances that somehow become major life events.
The Cabaret Theatre at Mohegan Sun feels like the perfect fit for Rodia’s style because the room allows audiences to fully feed into the rhythm of his performance. There is a rowdy familiarity to his shows, almost like sitting in the middle of an over-the-top family dinner where every story spirals into something bigger and funnier than expected. Between his sold-out Road Rage Tour dates, podcast appearances, and growing national profile, these performances are likely to draw a packed crowd ready for a night fueled by loud laughs, relatable stories, and the kind of comedy that leaves people repeating jokes all the way home.

Tammy Pescatelli at the Mohegan Sun
2026-05-15 20:00 - 21:30, 2026-05-16 18:00 - 19:30 | Mohegan Sun, 1 Mohegan Sun Blvd, Uncasville, 06382, United States
Tammy Pescatelli at the Mohegan Sun Comix Roadhouse brings the Emmy-nominated comedian’s fearless storytelling and razor-sharp sarcasm to Mohegan Sun for four performances from May 14 through 16. Known for comedy that pulls directly from marriage, motherhood, family chaos, and everyday frustration, Pescatelli has built a career on saying the things other people are usually too polite to admit out loud. Her stand-up lands somewhere between a brutally honest family therapy session and a hilarious late-night rant, delivered with the timing and confidence of a veteran comic who knows exactly how to work a room.
Tammy Pescatelli at the Mohegan Sun Comix Roadhouse arrives after decades of success across television, streaming, and live touring. She first broke out nationally as a finalist on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing” before winning Comedy Central’s “Stand-Up Showdown” and releasing acclaimed specials, including “Finding the Funny” and “The Way After School Special.” Her humor often draws from her upbringing in a large Italian-American family, creating stories that feel loud, personal, and deeply relatable, whether audiences grew up in the same kind of household or not. Fans may also recognize her from the WE TV series “A Stand-Up Mother” or her recent appearance in Netflix’s 2025 comedy-drama “Nonnas” alongside Vince Vaughn.
Comix Roadhouse gives Pescatelli the perfect setting for her style of comedy because the venue thrives on close-up interaction and energetic crowds. The room tends to feel more like a packed comedy club than a casino showroom, which plays directly into her conversational, fast-moving delivery. Expect stories about family dysfunction, modern life, relationships, aging, and all the little irritations people secretly love hearing turned into punchlines. For comedy fans looking for a weekend show with big laughs and zero filter, these performances should deliver exactly that.
Showtimes

Thursday, May 14, 2026 — 8:00 PM
Friday, May 15, 2026 — 8:00 PM
Saturday, May 16, 2026 — 6:00 PM
Saturday, May 16, 2026 — 8:00 PM

Mike Tramp of White Lion at Wolf Den
2026-05-15 20:00 - 22:00 | Mohegan Sun, 1 Mohegan Sun Blvd, Uncasville, 06382, United States
Mike Tramp of White Lion at Wolf Den brings classic hard rock energy to Mohegan Sun on Friday, May 15, giving southeastern Connecticut fans a rare chance to experience one of the signature voices of ‘80s melodic rock in an intimate setting. Best known as the frontman of White Lion, Mike Tramp helped shape the soundtrack of the MTV era with songs like “Wait,” “Little Fighter,” and the power ballad “When the Children Cry.” In the smaller confines of the Wolf Den, those arena-sized songs land differently, louder, closer, and more personal than they ever could in a stadium.
Inside the Wolf Den, the atmosphere tends to feel part concert venue and part late-night rock club, especially when longtime fans start filling the room early. Seating is first-come, first-served, and regulars know the line begins forming well before showtime for recognizable legacy acts. The non-smoking venue has become one of the casino’s most reliable spots for live music, giving audiences an up-close experience that feels surprisingly intimate compared to the larger entertainment spaces throughout the property. There’s a certain nostalgia in the air when acts tied to classic rock radio step onto that stage, and this show will likely lean heavily into it.
Mike Tramp’s recent performances have blended storytelling, stripped-down emotion, and the kind of soaring choruses that defined an entire generation of rock music. For fans who grew up with late-night videos on MTV or road trips soundtracked by power ballads and guitar solos, this show taps directly into that feeling. The concert begins at 8 p.m. at the Wolf Den inside Mohegan Sun. Guests must be 21 or older, and seating is limited.

Take It To The Bridge at the Charlestown Rathskeller
2026-05-15 20:00 - 23:00 | Rathskeller, 489A Old Coach Rd, Charlestown, RI, 02813, United States
Take It To The Bridge at the Charlestown Rathskeller brings funk, soul, pop, and dance-floor energy to Charlestown Rathskeller Tavern on Friday, May 15 from 8:00 to 11:00 PM. Set against the wooded outdoor atmosphere of one of Rhode Island’s most iconic taverns, the night combines live music, food, drinks, and open-air spring nightlife into the kind of shoreline evening people wait all winter to get back to.
Headlining the night is Take It To The Bridge, an award-winning eight-piece band known for turning dance crowds loose with a mix of funk, soul, rock, pop, and high-energy party favorites. Since forming in 2014, the group has built a strong regional following thanks to tight musicianship, big vocals, and a setlist built around recognizable songs designed to keep people moving. Their performances lean heavily into crowd energy, transforming concerts into full-on dance parties by the end of the first set.
The Charlestown Rathskeller itself adds a major part of the experience, with expansive outdoor seating, fire pits, lawn games, and the rustic atmosphere that has made the venue a summer destination for generations. Guests are encouraged to arrive early for dinner and drinks before the music starts, as the combination of warm weather, outdoor vibes, and live music tends to fill the property quickly. Between the atmosphere, the band, and the setting in the woods of Charlestown, this feels less like a concert and more like the unofficial start of summer nightlife season.

Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center's Stargazing Nights
2026-05-15 20:30 - 22:30 | Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center, 61-62 Park Lane, Charlestown, RI, 02813, United States
Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center’s Stargazing Nights turn a quiet Friday evening in Ninigret Park into one of the most atmospheric experiences in southern New England. Hosted by Frosty Drew Observatory & Science Center, the weekly gathering invites visitors to explore the night sky through powerful telescopes while astronomers guide guests across planets, star clusters, distant galaxies, and the glowing band of the Milky Way overhead. Under some of the darkest skies in Rhode Island, the experience feels less like a formal science program and more like stumbling into a community of people quietly obsessed with the universe.
As darkness settles over Ninigret Park, visitors can expect views that change depending on the season and sky conditions, often including Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s moons, the cratered surface of the Moon, and deep space objects rarely visible in brighter suburban areas. The observatory’s Sky Theatre and telescope stations create an immersive environment where curious first-timers mingle with amateur astronomers and longtime stargazers. There’s something strangely calming about standing in near silence while strangers take turns peering into the cosmos, especially on clear summer nights when the Milky Way stretches visibly across the sky.
The observatory typically opens around 8:30 p.m. on Friday nights and remains active through at least 10:30 p.m., sometimes later depending on weather and viewing conditions. Because the event is weather dependent, updates are posted on the day of the event before 3 p.m. Organizers also note that Ninigret Park’s dark sky rules prohibit white light use after dusk in order to protect night vision and sensitive astronomical equipment, giving the entire area an almost surreal glow of dim red lights and shadowy pathways. Tickets for Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center’s Stargazing Nights can be purchased by clicking the event link below.
When ticket sales open, a link to purchase / acquire tickets will be added to the “Cost” field on the event page. Once event capacity is reached, these fields will be listed as “Sold Out“, and we will be unable to allow entry to any more guests.
Rules and Suggestions:
• Guests should avoid using white flashlights, phone flashlights, or bright screens after dusk
• Red light flashlights are encouraged to preserve night vision
• Bug spray is highly recommended during warmer months due to mosquitoes and insects near the wildlife refuge
• Weather conditions may affect visibility or event operations
• Children ages 5 and older require tickets
• Arriving early is recommended for the best viewing opportunities and parking access

Misquamicut Drive-In: JAWS
2026-05-15 21:00 - 23:30 | Misquamicut Drive-In, 316 Atlantic Avenue, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Misquamicut Drive-In: JAWS brings one of the most iconic summer thrillers ever made back to the big screen just steps from the shoreline at Misquamicut Drive-In. Steven Spielberg’s legendary 1975 blockbuster transformed beach season forever with its story of a quiet coastal town terrorized by a great white shark lurking just offshore. Even decades later, the tension still works. The slow build, the unforgettable score, and the feeling that something might be circling beneath the water make JAWS the kind of movie that feels especially perfect to watch near the ocean on a warm summer night.
The Misquamicut Drive-In has become one of Rhode Island’s most nostalgic seasonal attractions, blending old-school drive-in culture with the atmosphere of a beach town summer evening. Cars line up facing the massive outdoor screen while families, couples, and groups of friends settle into lawn chairs, truck beds, and open tailgates with snacks and blankets. On nights when the ocean breeze rolls through the area, the experience feels less like a normal movie screening and more like a community gathering wrapped in neon lights, salt air, and movie quotes everyone somehow already knows by heart.
Part of what gives the drive-in its charm is how immersive the setup becomes after dark. Guests tune their car radios to 96.3 FM, where the movie audio is broadcast directly into vehicles, creating an unexpectedly cinematic experience, especially with the windows down on a cool night. Speakers near the front rows also project sound toward the screen area, adding another layer to the atmosphere for guests sitting outside their vehicles. Between the beachside setting, the giant screen glowing against the night sky, and the collective reactions during JAWS’ most famous scenes, it becomes the kind of summer memory people talk about long after the credits roll.
Rules and Suggestions:
• Tune vehicle radios to 96.3 FM for movie audio
• Guests sitting near the screen can also hear audio through front speaker systems
• Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged for guests watching outside their vehicles
• Arrive early for better parking spots and easier entry
• Be respectful of neighboring vehicles by keeping headlights off during the movie
• Outside snacks may be allowed, but guests should check event policies before arriving
• Beach evenings can become cool after sunset, so bringing layers is recommended

Stonington Village Farmers Market
2026-05-16 09:00 - 12:00 | Velvet Mill, 22 Bayview Ave, Stonington, CT, 06378, United States
Stonington Village Farmers Market has become one of the defining Saturday morning traditions along the Connecticut shoreline, bringing together local farms, food vendors, artisans, musicians, and neighbors inside and outside the historic Velvet Mill. Running year-round since becoming a permanent seasonal fixture in 2008, the market transforms with the seasons, moving outdoors during the warmer months and indoors during late fall and winter while continuing to serve as a gathering place for the community.
The market offers far more than produce stands. Visitors can browse locally grown vegetables and fruits, cheeses, baked goods, meats, seafood, maple syrup, flowers, mushrooms, prepared foods, and handmade crafts while live music plays in the background. The atmosphere feels distinctly coastal New England, blending small-town community energy with the creativity and food culture that defines Stonington Village. Families, dog owners, and longtime locals mingle throughout the morning while vendors showcase everything from handmade soaps and pottery to organic kombucha and Mediterranean cuisine.
What makes the Stonington Village Farmers Market stand out is how deeply connected it feels to the rhythm of the region itself. Some visitors arrive early for greenhouse spinach or fresh seafood before it sells out, while others come simply to wander with coffee in hand and reconnect with neighbors. Between the local farmers, prepared food vendors, musicians, and rotating artisan booths, the market has evolved into more than a shopping destination. It has become a weekly community ritual that reflects the character, creativity, and agricultural roots of southeastern Connecticut.
Participating Vendors & Farms

APIS VERDI
Broad Brook Acres
Davis Farm
ISSA Catering
Jon Fish
Seacoast Mushrooms
Sugar Maple Farms
Sweet Acre Farm
Wakin’ Up Waggin’
18th Century Purity Farm
Stonyledge Farm and Studio Farm Products
Summer Hill Catering
Cato Corner Farm
Treatzles
Fiber + Mud
YALLA

Sponsors & Organizers

Stonington Village Improvement Association (SVIA)
Velvet Mill

Operation Fresh Start - Annual Plant Drive
2026-05-16 09:00 - 14:00 | Operation Fresh Start, 93 Sunrise Ave, Pawcatuck, 06379, United States
Operation Fresh Start – Annual Plant Drive returns to Pawcatuck on Saturday, May 16, turning 93 Sunrise Ave into a spring community fundraiser filled with flowers, garden shopping, local makers, and neighborhood support. Running from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the annual event invites visitors to browse a wide selection of plants while enjoying the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that comes with small-town spring events in Southeastern Connecticut. Between blooming flowers, raffle baskets, and craft vendors, the day is designed to feel just as much like a community gathering as it is a fundraiser.
Operation Fresh Start – Annual Plant Drive supports Operation Fresh Start Inc., a nonprofit focused on helping families with children across New London County who are facing difficult circumstances. The organization provides donated household items for families setting up homes, backpacks filled with necessities for children, and assistance through seasonal drives supplying school items, diapers, toiletries, pajamas, toys, and holiday gifts. Every purchase made during the plant sale directly supports those ongoing efforts, giving the event a deeper purpose beyond the shopping itself.
The event is expected to draw gardeners looking for new additions to their yards alongside families searching for a simple spring outing close to home. Local crafters and raffle tables add to the experience, creating the kind of easygoing community event where people linger, talk, and leave carrying flowers, handmade goods, and maybe a few extra raffle tickets. For anyone looking to spend a Saturday supporting a meaningful local cause while soaking up some springtime energy, this Pawcatuck fundraiser offers a little bit of everything.

Save Ocean Beach Tag Sale
2026-05-16 09:00 - 15:00 | Ocean Beach Park, 98 Neptune Avenue, New London, CT, 06320, United States
Save Ocean Beach Tag Sale turns a classic neighborhood rummage sale into a community-driven fundraiser at Ocean Beach Park. Hosted by Save Ocean Beach, Inc., the event invites locals to shop, sell, and support ongoing projects that help preserve one of the area’s most recognized coastal spaces. Running from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, it offers a mix of casual browsing and community engagement in an outdoor setting.
Shoppers can expect a wide range of items, from household goods and antiques to handmade crafts and small business products. The event creates an accessible marketplace where vendors set up individual 10’ x 10’ spaces, giving it the feel of a large-scale neighborhood tag sale with added variety. For those looking to participate as sellers, it provides a straightforward way to clear out items or promote a home-based business while contributing to a local cause.
Beyond the deals, the event’s purpose centers on supporting preservation efforts at Ocean Beach Park, with all proceeds going directly toward related projects. The combination of shopping and fundraising gives the day a clear community focus, encouraging both participation and support. With a rain date scheduled and early setup for vendors, the event is structured to run smoothly while maintaining a relaxed, open-air atmosphere.

Charlestown 250th Anniversary Historical Bike Tour
2026-05-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Charlestown Mini-Super, 4071 Old Post Road, Charlestown, RI, 02813, United States
Charlestown 250th Anniversary Historical Bike Tour offers a slower, more scenic way to experience one of Rhode Island’s quiet historic corners as cyclists wind through the rural landscape of Cross Mills on Saturday, May 16. Hosted as part of local historical programming tied to America 250 celebrations, the guided ride blends small-town history, community storytelling, and springtime scenery into an experience that feels both educational and relaxing. Riders will stop at several historic sites along the route while learning more about the village’s past and the role the area played in southern Rhode Island’s development.
Located within Charlestown, Cross Mills still carries much of the atmosphere that defines old New England village life, with historic buildings, quiet roads, and stretches of countryside that feel largely untouched by modern development. The route is designed less like a competitive cycling event and more like a moving historical tour, giving participants time to take in the surroundings while hearing stories connected to the area’s architecture, early industry, and local landmarks. For riders interested in photography, local history, or simply spending a calm morning outdoors, the event offers a very different pace from larger festivals and crowded shoreline attractions.
The ride begins at 10 a.m. on May 16 and is expected to attract both local residents and visitors interested in Rhode Island history and scenic cycling experiences. The vintage-inspired theme of the event pairs naturally with the setting itself, where old stone walls, church steeples, and winding village roads create the kind of backdrop that feels almost frozen in time. Historical Bicycle Ride Through the Village of Cross Mills requires advance registration, and participants can sign up by clicking the event link below.
Rules and Suggestions:
• Participants should arrive early for check-in and preparation
• Riders are encouraged to bring water and wear comfortable cycling attire
• Helmets are strongly recommended for all participants
• Guests should be prepared for changing spring weather conditions
• The event focuses on historical touring and sightseeing rather than competitive riding
• Respect for village roads, historic sites, and fellow riders is encouraged throughout the event
• Registration is required before participating in the ride

Mystic & Noank Library Embroidery Pop Up
2026-05-16 12:00 - 13:00 | Mystic & Noank Library, 40 Library Street, Mystic, CT, 06355, United States
Mystic & Noank Library Embroidery Pop Up offers a hands-on creative workshop for anyone interested in learning embroidery, mending clothing, or giving old accessories a second life through simple hand-sewing techniques. Designed for beginners as well as people already working on projects at home, the pop-up creates a relaxed, community-focused environment where participants can learn practical skills while working creatively with fabric and thread.
The workshop focuses on basic embroidery instruction, teaching participants how to stitch designs onto clothing, bags, and accessories while exploring the growing trend of upcycling and personalized fashion. Guests already working on hand-sewn or embroidery projects are encouraged to bring them along for guidance and support, while newcomers can receive help selecting materials and getting started. Denim, canvas, and linen are especially recommended for beginners because of their durability and ease of stitching.
Hosted by Mystic & Noank Library, the event blends crafting, sustainability, and social creativity into a workshop that feels approachable rather than intimidating. With class sizes limited and registration required, the experience is designed to stay small and interactive, giving attendees time to ask questions, experiment with techniques, and leave with the confidence to continue stitching at home. The workshop is open to ages 12 and up, making it a great fit for teens, adults, and anyone looking for a creative way to unplug for an afternoon.

Mystic Cleanup with ORCA and Adventure Mystic
2026-05-16 12:00 - 15:00 | Adventure Mystic, 15 Holmes Street, Mystic, 06355, United States
Mystic Cleanup with ORCA and Adventure Mystic brings volunteers together for an afternoon focused on protecting the Mystic River and surrounding downtown areas through shoreline and community cleanup efforts, both on land and on the water. Hosted by Ocean Recovery Community Alliance in partnership with Adventure Mystic, the event combines environmental stewardship with outdoor recreation as experienced paddlers head onto the river in kayaks and paddleboards to remove trash directly from the water. Others will spread throughout areas around town, helping clean public spaces and shoreline sections throughout Mystic.
The cleanup begins at Adventure Mystic’s back lot along Holmes Street, placing volunteers directly beside the Mystic River and close to some of the town’s most scenic waterfront areas. For participants comfortable on the water, the opportunity to paddle through the river while helping clean the shoreline adds a more active and immersive layer to the event than a traditional roadside cleanup. Adventure Mystic is providing a limited number of kayaks and paddleboards for volunteers, creating a unique chance to experience the river while contributing to local conservation efforts. The event also reflects the growing focus throughout the region on preserving coastal ecosystems and maintaining the beauty of heavily visited shoreline towns like Mystic.
Mystic Cleanup with ORCA and Adventure Mystic takes place May 16 from noon to 3 p.m., with a rain date scheduled for May 17 at the same time. Organizers note that volunteers using provided kayaks or paddleboards must reserve equipment ahead of time during registration, and each participant in a group must sign up individually. Participants using watercraft will also need to complete a waiver before launch. Registration for the Mystic Cleanup can be completed by clicking the event link below.
Rules and Suggestions:
• Volunteers may help clean both the river and surrounding town areas
• Experienced paddlers may use kayaks and paddleboards on the river
• Participants may bring their own kayak or paddleboard if preferred
• Adventure Mystic is providing limited watercraft for volunteers
• Watercraft reservations must be completed during registration
• Group participants must register individually
• Volunteers using provided watercraft must complete a waiver
• Rain date is scheduled for May 17 at the same time
• Cleanup supplies will be provided by ORCA
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Mystic Seaport 2026 Spring Racing Series
2026-05-16 13:00 - 15:00 | Mystic Seaport, 75 Greenmanville Ave, Mystic, CT, ,06355-1946,, United States
Mystic Seaport 2026 Spring Racing Series brings competitive small-boat sailing back to the Mystic River with a five-week Saturday racing program designed for sailors looking to sharpen their skills before the busy summer season. Hosted by Mystic Seaport Museum, the series runs Saturdays from April 18 through May 16 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM and combines casual competition with hands-on sailing experience in one of New England’s most recognizable maritime settings.
Participants race Dyer Dhows, the classic small sailboats long associated with sailing instruction and recreational racing throughout coastal New England. The races are designed to balance competitiveness with accessibility, creating an environment where experienced sailors can stay active during the spring while newer racers build confidence and technique on the water. With the Mystic River serving as the course backdrop, the series offers both technical sailing practice and scenic shoreline views throughout the afternoon sessions.
Open to ages 13 and up, the Spring Racing Series encourages both full-series registration and flexible drop-in participation for sailors who want to join individual weekends. Space is limited to maintain a manageable on-the-water experience, helping keep the races interactive and supportive rather than overly formal. For many local sailors, the program serves as an early-season ritual that signals the return of warmer weather, boat traffic, and another busy summer on the shoreline.

Whiskey, Bourbon, and Scotch at Kitch Mystic
2026-05-16 18:00 - 19:30 | KITCH Mystic, 27 Coogan Blvd Building 19A, Mystic, CT, 06355, United States
Whiskey, Bourbon, and Scotch at Kitch Mystic offers a guided deep dive into the world of aged spirits, with an evening focused on whiskey education, tasting, and cocktail history. Designed for both experienced whiskey drinkers and curious newcomers, the class explores Scotch, Bourbon, Irish whiskey, and rye through guided tastings led by acclaimed mixologist and spirits educator Anthony Caporale.
Guests will learn how to properly taste and evaluate whiskey while sampling a curated lineup that includes Dewar’s White Label Scotch, Laphroaig 10 Single Malt Scotch, Green Spot Irish Whiskey, South County Bourbon, and Litchfield Straight Rye. Alongside the tastings, Caporale walks participants through the history, production, and science behind whiskey-making, helping demystify a category that can often feel intimidating to casual drinkers. Spencer and Lynn Wine and Spirit Merchants in downtown Mystic provide spirits for the class.
What sets the evening apart is Caporale’s blend of education and entertainment. Known for creating The Imbible series of long-running Off-Broadway musicals about cocktail history, he brings storytelling, humor, and deep industry knowledge into the experience rather than presenting it like a formal lecture. Participants also receive access to an exclusive after-class shopping event with 15% off purchases, turning the evening into part tasting class, part social event, and part whiskey appreciation workshop.
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Denison Pequotsepos Horseshoe Crab Walk at Napatree
2026-05-16 18:00 - 21:00 | Napatree Point, Fort Road, Westerly, RI, 02891, United States
Denison Pequotsepos Horseshoe Crab Walk at Napatree offers a rare chance to explore one of the most beautiful and ecologically important stretches of coastline in southern New England during one of the most active times of year for horseshoe crabs. Hosted along Napatree Point Conservation Area in the village of Watch Hill, the evening program guides participants across the shoreline as horseshoe crabs emerge to mate and lay eggs along the beach. With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Little Narragansett Bay on the other, Napatree feels almost untouched in places, a long sandy peninsula shaped by storms, tides, dunes, and protected coastal habitat. At sunset, especially, the area becomes one of the most visually striking places anywhere along the Rhode Island shoreline. (Visit Rhode Island)
As participants walk the beach with educators, the program focuses on the unusual biology and ancient life cycle of horseshoe crabs, creatures that have existed for hundreds of millions of years and still return to local shores every spring. The experience is designed to feel immersive and hands-on, with participants moving directly through the natural habitat where the animals gather during spawning season. Napatree itself has become internationally recognized for its environmental importance, serving as protected habitat for migratory birds, endangered species, and coastal wildlife while remaining one of the region’s most scenic beach walks. (The Watch Hill Conservancy)
Horseshoe Crab Walk at Napatree takes place Saturday, May 16 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Organizers note that participants should expect to walk at least two miles over sandy and rocky terrain and be prepared to get wet during the program. The walk is suited for adults and families with children who can comfortably handle the conditions. Pre-registration is required, and participants can register by clicking the event link below.
Rules and Suggestions:
• Pre-registration is required
• Participants should expect wet and sandy footwear conditions
• The walk includes at least two miles of sandy and rocky terrain
• Appropriate footwear is required
• Flip flops and Crocs are not permitted
• The program is suited for adults and families with children able to handle the terrain and conditions
• Member and non-member pricing applies

COMO’s Stars & Stripes Over Stonington gala and auction
2026-05-16 18:00 - 22:00 | Stone Acres Farm, 393 North Main Street, Stonington, CT, 06378, United States
COMO’s Stars & Stripes Over Stonington gala and auction is celebrating community, history, and generosity all at once with its America 250-inspired gala and online fundraising auction, bringing together local businesses, families, volunteers, and supporters for one of the organization’s biggest annual fundraising efforts. The celebration culminates with Stars & Stripes Over Stonington on Saturday, May 16, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Stone Acres Farm, an evening of cocktails, dinner, dancing, and both silent and live auctions supporting the COMO’s ongoing mission of community programming, youth development, recreation, arts, and education.
Running alongside the gala is a large online auction featuring shoreline experiences, restaurant packages, local getaways, entertainment, and family activities, all donated by businesses and community partners throughout southeastern Connecticut and Rhode Island. The auction lineup reflects the character of the region itself, with prizes ranging from Mystic and Stonington hotel escapes to winery dinners, golf outings, train rides, theater tickets, drag show VIP packages, spa treatments, painting classes, restaurant gift certificates, and family activity bundles. Supporters can bid on experiences tied directly to some of the shoreline’s best-known destinations and local businesses while helping fund programs at one of the region’s most important community organizations.
This year’s gala honors Andrew Field, whose family’s connection to the COMO stretches across generations through youth programs, athletics, volunteer work, and community support tied to Noah’s Restaurant. The celebration leans heavily into the spirit of America 250 with festive cocktail attire encouraged and a broader focus on community connection and civic pride. Even for those unable to attend the sold-out gala itself, the online auction remains open to the public through Friday, May 15 at 8:00 AM, giving anyone the opportunity to support the COMO while potentially walking away with some uniquely local experiences and packages.
Featured Auction Highlights Include:

Private After-Hours Thrift Bash for 10
Las Vegas Lights Getaway
Stonington Two-Night Getaway
Mystic Waterfront Stay & Dining Experience
Steam Train & Riverboat Escape for Four
Sea Queens Drag Show VIP Experience for Six
Sip & Savor Wine Dinner at Breakwater
Front Row Tickets to Anastasia
Golf Packages & Outdoor Adventures
Family Fun & Restaurant Packages
Art Classes, Spa Packages & Local Artisan Goods

Participating Businesses & Donors Include:

Nana’s Mystic
River Bar
Breakwater
Noah’s Restaurant
Bank Square Books
Mystic Knotwork
Inn at Stonington
Stone Acres Farm
Platinum Hair Salon
Pequot Golf Club

Auction Link:
Bid in the COMO Online Auction
