New Volunteer Open House

Recurring
Hills Academy 22 Prospect Street, Essex

Interested in leaving your mark on Essex History? Then, please join us our Monthly Volunteer Open House! If you want to learn how to support EHS as a volunteer, please join us for this meet and greet. This is a no-commitment, hour long introduction to volunteerism with Essex Historical Society. One of our staff will give you a tour of Hills Academy and outline our volunteer positions including: Collections and research Education and Programming Event planning and fundraising Tour Guide for Pratt House and Walking Tours Maintenance of Gardens at Pratt House Preservation and up-keep of EHS’s two historic sites No need to RSVP, simply arrive at Hills Academy (22 Prospect Street, parking and entrance in rear) between 10:30-11:30 am, and we will give you the information. If you can’t join us this month, we hope to see you at the next Open House. Open Houses will be held in the same place, at the same time on the 2nd Wednesday of each month, unless otherwise noted.

Free

Scarecrow Contest sponsored by The Essex Board of Trade

Recurring
Essex Village

The Essex Scarecrow Contest and FestiFall have become a much-loved community tradition, bringing creativity, fun, and local spirit to the Main Streets of Centerbrook, Essex, and Ivoryton each fall! Every year, residents, businesses, and organizations design and build scarecrows to display on lamp posts throughout town. The scarecrows will be on display all October, so stroll the streets, snap photos, and share your favorites! Voting open until October 30th at https://essexct.com/scarecrow-contest-2026/ Questions? Email ebotpresident@gmail.com

Free

Valley Forge Elm Planting – Essex Celebrates America 250

Ivoryton Green Ivoryton

Join us for a meaningful community moment as we come together to plant a Valley Forge Elm Tree in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.  Ivoryton Village Green Wednesday, May 13, 2026 4:00 PM This special ceremony is more than just planting a tree—it’s about celebrating our shared history, our community, and the legacy we leave for future generations.  The tree was made possible through a generous donation from the Essex Board of Trade, with additional support from the Essex Tree Committee, in coordination with Essex Tree Warden Augie Pampel. As part of our Essex Celebrates America 250 events, this is a wonderful opportunity to gather with friends and neighbors and be part of something lasting right here in Essex. We hope you’ll join us! #EssexCT #Essex250 #Community #TreePlanting #ValleyForgeElm #America250

Free