• Daffodil Days

    Celebrate Daffodil Days! Come experience the vibrant beauty of Daffodil Days in the three villages of Essex starting on March 21st, proudly sponsored by the Essex Board of Trade! Join us for a delightful stroll to see the golden daffodils and explore our charming town’s merchant specials. Discover unique treasures, savor local flavors, and immerse yourself in the warmth of community spirit. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate springtime and see the 45,000+ daffodils planted from Ivoryton to Centerbrook to Essex!  Click here for details:  https://essexct.com/deals/ Click the map below to enlarge, print, or download!

  • Essex Go Bragh Parade

    Essex Village

    We’re officially thinking GREEN here at Essex Park and Recreation, and that can only mean one thing… the Essex Go Bragh Irish Parade is just under two months away! 📅 Saturday, March 21, 2026 ⏰ Step-off at 11:00 AM 📍 Starting at Essex Town Hall, right through Essex Village This beloved, family-friendly tradition is one of our favorite days of the year, and we truly hope you’ll join us for a morning filled with Irish spirit, community pride, and plenty of smiles. It’s been wonderful to hear from many past participants and a bunch of new ones already—thank you for the excitement and enthusiasm! ✨ Please let us know as soon as possible if your group can participate this year. The more marchers, the merrier! 🎉 Announcing Our 2026 Grand Marshal 🎉 Essex Park and Recreation is proud to announce that the America 250 Semi-Quincentennial Committee has been selected as the Grand Marshal of the 2026 Essex Go Bragh Parade! This honor recognizes the committee’s incredible work in planning and coordinating local initiatives for America 250, the nationwide commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the United States in 2026. Their efforts highlight Essex’s rich history while creating inclusive, educational, and community-focused opportunities for residents of all ages. Members of the Essex America 250 Semi-Quincentennial Committee include: • Stacia Libby • […]

  • Volunteer Expo 2026

    Essex Library 33 West Ave, Essex, CT, United States

    Are you looking for volunteer opportunities in the community? Join us at Essex Library from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. for our second annual Non-Profit Volunteer Expo to meet and connect with representatives from local non-profits. Discover what local organizations are doing for the community and learn how you might join them, including: Connecticut River Museum Essex Art Association Essex Board of Trade Essex Fire Department Essex Garden Club Essex Historical Society Essex Library Essex Veterans Memorial Hall Ivoryton Library Sister Cities Essex Haiti Tri-Town Youth Services The 2026 Essex Library Non-Profit Volunteer Expo is FREE and open to the public at 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT. No registration necessary, drop-in!

    Free
  • Essex Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt

    Essex Town Hall 29 West Avenue, Essex, United States

    Essex Park & Rec is so excited to announce that the Essex Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt is on March 28th. Join us for story time with the Easter Bunny at 9:15 at the Essex Town Hall Auditorium – take pics with the Easter Bunny and then the egg hunt at Grove Street Park starting promptly at 10am. The Egg hunt is geared toward younger children birth to grade 3 and we ask that you pre register for this event. Pre-register here!

  • Essex Celebrates America 250 Gala

    Essex Steam Train One Railroad Avenue, Essex, CT, United States

    Join us for a night that honors where we’ve been—and where we’re going. The Essex 250 Gala will be held April 18 from 7–10 PM at the historic Essex Steam Train. • A celebration of America at 250 • Dancing, music, and community spirit • Creative attire encouraged—Past, Present, or Future. Period dress welcome. Black Tie optional. An evening rooted in history and brought to life by Essex. Get your tickets today! Click here to purchase  

    $125
  • EBOT Business After Hours at Flow Essex

    Flow Essex 2 Nott Lane, Essex, CT, United States

    Join the Essex Board of Trade for our next Business After Hours, a relaxed time with light refreshments, great conversation, and the chance to explore one of our local member businesses. Date: April 23rdTime: 5:30 to 7 pmPlace: Flow Essex, 2 Nott Lane, Essex, CT This event is a special perk for EBOT members, but if you're curious about joining, this is the perfect time to learn more! Membership connects you with our vibrant local business community, gives you a voice in town events, and offers valuable networking opportunities.  Learn how to become a member: https:// essexct.com/membership-2/

    Free
  • Connecticut Spring Boat Show 2026

    Safe Harbor Essex Island 11 Ferry Street, Essex, CT, United States

    For the 10th year, the Connecticut Spring Boat Show returns to historic Essex, uniting boaters, builders, and marine businesses along the Connecticut River—set within a town celebrating 250 years and honoring the past, present, and future of boating.  Please click for tickets:  https://www.windcheckmagazine.com/shop/ The 2025 Show featured 70 boats on display and over 50 exhibitors. Together with our sponsors and 2,000+ attendees, we raised over $17,000 for Sails Up 4 Cancer. While weather dampened some of the action planned for the five bands on the docket, 2026 promises even more—with expanded performance and exhibit areas and an even larger lineup of boats. This is a rain or shine event. Children 13 and under are free when accompanied by a paid adult; please be sure to select a Children’s ticket when purchasing online. Each ticket/bracelet provides entrance for all three days. The show is produced by WindCheck Magazine and hosted by Safe Harbor Essex Island. 2025 sponsors include Essex Boat Works, Maritime Insurance International, Surfridge Brewing Co., Mohegan Sun Casino, Yacht Brokers Association of America (YBAA), Risk Strategies/Gowrie Group, The Griswold Inn, The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, Experience Essex, and Saybrook Point Resort & Marina.

  • Connecticut Spring Boat Show 2026

    Safe Harbor Essex Island 11 Ferry Street, Essex, CT, United States

    For the 10th year, the Connecticut Spring Boat Show returns to historic Essex, uniting boaters, builders, and marine businesses along the Connecticut River—set within a town celebrating 250 years and honoring the past, present, and future of boating.  Please click for tickets:  https://www.windcheckmagazine.com/shop/ The 2025 Show featured 70 boats on display and over 50 exhibitors. Together with our sponsors and 2,000+ attendees, we raised over $17,000 for Sails Up 4 Cancer. While weather dampened some of the action planned for the five bands on the docket, 2026 promises even more—with expanded performance and exhibit areas and an even larger lineup of boats. This is a rain or shine event. Children 13 and under are free when accompanied by a paid adult; please be sure to select a Children’s ticket when purchasing online. Each ticket/bracelet provides entrance for all three days. The show is produced by WindCheck Magazine and hosted by Safe Harbor Essex Island. 2025 sponsors include Essex Boat Works, Maritime Insurance International, Surfridge Brewing Co., Mohegan Sun Casino, Yacht Brokers Association of America (YBAA), Risk Strategies/Gowrie Group, The Griswold Inn, The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, Experience Essex, and Saybrook Point Resort & Marina.

  • Connecticut Spring Boat Show 2026

    Safe Harbor Essex Island 11 Ferry Street, Essex, CT, United States

    For the 10th year, the Connecticut Spring Boat Show returns to historic Essex, uniting boaters, builders, and marine businesses along the Connecticut River—set within a town celebrating 250 years and honoring the past, present, and future of boating.  Please click for tickets:  https://www.windcheckmagazine.com/shop/ The 2025 Show featured 70 boats on display and over 50 exhibitors. Together with our sponsors and 2,000+ attendees, we raised over $17,000 for Sails Up 4 Cancer. While weather dampened some of the action planned for the five bands on the docket, 2026 promises even more—with expanded performance and exhibit areas and an even larger lineup of boats. This is a rain or shine event. Children 13 and under are free when accompanied by a paid adult; please be sure to select a Children’s ticket when purchasing online. Each ticket/bracelet provides entrance for all three days. The show is produced by WindCheck Magazine and hosted by Safe Harbor Essex Island. 2025 sponsors include Essex Boat Works, Maritime Insurance International, Surfridge Brewing Co., Mohegan Sun Casino, Yacht Brokers Association of America (YBAA), Risk Strategies/Gowrie Group, The Griswold Inn, The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, Experience Essex, and Saybrook Point Resort & Marina.

  • Essex Park & Recreation 2026 Summer Concert Series: Middletown Symphonic Band

    Essex Village Main Street Park 12 Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    Essex Park & Recreation is pleased to announce the return of the Essex Summer Concert Series, a beloved community tradition featuring free, live outdoor music on Wednesday evenings throughout the summer. The concert series will take place Wednesdays from July 8 through August 12, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, alternating weekly between Main Street Park in Essex Village and Ivoryton Village Green. These family-friendly concerts invite residents and visitors alike to relax, connect with neighbors, and enjoy live music in a casual, picnic-style setting. “Join us on Wednesdays for an evening of music and fun on the town greens in Essex and Ivoryton,” said representatives from Essex Park & Recreation. “This series is a wonderful way to celebrate summer, community, and live music.” 2026 Essex Summer Concert Series Schedule July 8 – Middletown Symphonic Band Main Street Park, Essex Village July 15 – Southern Voice Ivoryton Village Green July 22 – Bloomer Main Street Park, Essex Village July 29 – Mitch Nelson Ivoryton Village Green August 5 – Chris Marra Band Main Street Park, Essex Village August 12 – Local Honey Ivoryton Village Green Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening of live music under the summer sky. All concerts are free and open to the public, and attendees of all ages are welcome. For schedule […]

    Free
  • Essex Park & Recreation 2026 Summer Concert Series: Southern Voice

    Ivoryton Green Ivoryton, CT, United States

    Essex Park & Recreation is pleased to announce the return of the Essex Summer Concert Series, a beloved community tradition featuring free, live outdoor music on Wednesday evenings throughout the summer. The concert series will take place Wednesdays from July 8 through August 12, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, alternating weekly between Main Street Park in Essex Village and Ivoryton Village Green. These family-friendly concerts invite residents and visitors alike to relax, connect with neighbors, and enjoy live music in a casual, picnic-style setting. “Join us on Wednesdays for an evening of music and fun on the town greens in Essex and Ivoryton,” said representatives from Essex Park & Recreation. “This series is a wonderful way to celebrate summer, community, and live music.” 2026 Essex Summer Concert Series Schedule July 8 – Middletown Symphonic Band Main Street Park, Essex Village July 15 – Southern Voice Ivoryton Village Green July 22 – Bloomer Main Street Park, Essex Village July 29 – Mitch Nelson Ivoryton Village Green August 5 – Chris Marra Band Main Street Park, Essex Village August 12 – Local Honey Ivoryton Village Green Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening of live music under the summer sky. All concerts are free and open to the public, and attendees of all ages are welcome. For schedule […]

    Free
  • Essex Park & Recreation 2026 Summer Concert Series: Bloomer

    Essex Village Main Street Park 12 Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    Essex Park & Recreation is pleased to announce the return of the Essex Summer Concert Series, a beloved community tradition featuring free, live outdoor music on Wednesday evenings throughout the summer. The concert series will take place Wednesdays from July 8 through August 12, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, alternating weekly between Main Street Park in Essex Village and Ivoryton Village Green. These family-friendly concerts invite residents and visitors alike to relax, connect with neighbors, and enjoy live music in a casual, picnic-style setting. “Join us on Wednesdays for an evening of music and fun on the town greens in Essex and Ivoryton,” said representatives from Essex Park & Recreation. “This series is a wonderful way to celebrate summer, community, and live music.” 2026 Essex Summer Concert Series Schedule July 8 – Middletown Symphonic Band Main Street Park, Essex Village July 15 – Southern Voice Ivoryton Village Green July 22 – Bloomer Main Street Park, Essex Village July 29 – Mitch Nelson Ivoryton Village Green August 5 – Chris Marra Band Main Street Park, Essex Village August 12 – Local Honey Ivoryton Village Green Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening of live music under the summer sky. All concerts are free and open to the public, and attendees of all ages are welcome. For schedule […]

    Free
  • Essex Park & Recreation 2026 Summer Concert Series: Mitch Nelson

    Ivoryton Green Ivoryton, CT, United States

    Essex Park & Recreation is pleased to announce the return of the Essex Summer Concert Series, a beloved community tradition featuring free, live outdoor music on Wednesday evenings throughout the summer. The concert series will take place Wednesdays from July 8 through August 12, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, alternating weekly between Main Street Park in Essex Village and Ivoryton Village Green. These family-friendly concerts invite residents and visitors alike to relax, connect with neighbors, and enjoy live music in a casual, picnic-style setting. “Join us on Wednesdays for an evening of music and fun on the town greens in Essex and Ivoryton,” said representatives from Essex Park & Recreation. “This series is a wonderful way to celebrate summer, community, and live music.” 2026 Essex Summer Concert Series Schedule July 8 – Middletown Symphonic Band Main Street Park, Essex Village July 15 – Southern Voice Ivoryton Village Green July 22 – Bloomer Main Street Park, Essex Village July 29 – Mitch Nelson Ivoryton Village Green August 5 – Chris Marra Band Main Street Park, Essex Village August 12 – Local Honey Ivoryton Village Green Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening of live music under the summer sky. All concerts are free and open to the public, and attendees of all ages are welcome. For schedule […]

    Free
  • Essex Park & Recreation 2026 Summer Concert Series: Chris Marra Band

    Essex Village Main Street Park 12 Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    Essex Park & Recreation is pleased to announce the return of the Essex Summer Concert Series, a beloved community tradition featuring free, live outdoor music on Wednesday evenings throughout the summer. The concert series will take place Wednesdays from July 8 through August 12, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, alternating weekly between Main Street Park in Essex Village and Ivoryton Village Green. These family-friendly concerts invite residents and visitors alike to relax, connect with neighbors, and enjoy live music in a casual, picnic-style setting. “Join us on Wednesdays for an evening of music and fun on the town greens in Essex and Ivoryton,” said representatives from Essex Park & Recreation. “This series is a wonderful way to celebrate summer, community, and live music.” 2026 Essex Summer Concert Series Schedule July 8 – Middletown Symphonic Band Main Street Park, Essex Village July 15 – Southern Voice Ivoryton Village Green July 22 – Bloomer Main Street Park, Essex Village July 29 – Mitch Nelson Ivoryton Village Green August 5 – Chris Marra Band Main Street Park, Essex Village August 12 – Local Honey Ivoryton Village Green Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening of live music under the summer sky. All concerts are free and open to the public, and attendees of all ages are welcome. For schedule […]

    Free
  • Essex Park & Recreation 2026 Summer Concert Series: Local Honey

    Ivoryton Green Ivoryton, CT, United States

    Essex Park & Recreation is pleased to announce the return of the Essex Summer Concert Series, a beloved community tradition featuring free, live outdoor music on Wednesday evenings throughout the summer. The concert series will take place Wednesdays from July 8 through August 12, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM, alternating weekly between Main Street Park in Essex Village and Ivoryton Village Green. These family-friendly concerts invite residents and visitors alike to relax, connect with neighbors, and enjoy live music in a casual, picnic-style setting. “Join us on Wednesdays for an evening of music and fun on the town greens in Essex and Ivoryton,” said representatives from Essex Park & Recreation. “This series is a wonderful way to celebrate summer, community, and live music.” 2026 Essex Summer Concert Series Schedule July 8 – Middletown Symphonic Band Main Street Park, Essex Village July 15 – Southern Voice Ivoryton Village Green July 22 – Bloomer Main Street Park, Essex Village July 29 – Mitch Nelson Ivoryton Village Green August 5 – Chris Marra Band Main Street Park, Essex Village August 12 – Local Honey Ivoryton Village Green Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening of live music under the summer sky. All concerts are free and open to the public, and attendees of all ages are welcome. For schedule […]

    Free