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  • Summer Solstice

    Celebrate the arrival of summer during Essex’s Summer Solstice Weekend on June 20th & 21st! Enjoy two days of shopping, dining, special offers, activities, and shoreline charm as we welcome the longest days of the year. Explore Essex and discover all the magic summer brings, including: Essex Art Association is showcasing the EAA Summer Open Show with a "Come Sail Away" theme, juried by Kerry Kincy and sponsored by Tom & Betsy Whidden.  The Gantner Gallery Featured Artist is Andria Alex. Gallery hours are 1 to 5 pm. Essex Historical Society is having a walking tour with Essex Land Trust at 10 am on the 20th: https://www.essexhistory.org/events/ivoryton-walk house of the triple moon is offering a free gift with purchase: Spend $20 - receive a pack of wildflower seeds, Spend $40 - receive a bee hive votive candle, Spend $60 - receive both ! Join JMcLaughlin with hostess Katie Barton for Sips and Shopping featuring their New Collection on Saturday, June 20th 4-6pm.  10% of sales to benefit The Ivoryton Playhouse   Sweet P's is offering a Peach Mango smoothie for a limited time only. Peaches, mango, and banana come together for a healthy fruit smoothie with no refined sugar! 2026 Outdoor Summer […]

  • Historic Ivoryton Walking Tour

    Ivoryton Library 106 Main Street, Ivoryton, CT, United States

    Step into Ivoryton’s past on a guided walking tour presented in partnership by Essex Historical Society, Essex Land Trust, and Ivoryton Library. Essex Land Trust steward, Scott McCoid, will lead a walking tour of the Millrace Preserve covering Ivoryton’s history, the company that built it, and the flood that punctuated the end of an era.  EHS guide, Ellen Clark will continue the walk through Ivoryton highlighting the historic buildings and sites that make up Ivoryton’s rich history. Stroll the village streets as we share stories of mill workers, shopkeepers, and business owners who helped shape this mill town. Your registration reserves your spot for this outdoor program exploring Ivoryton. Parking available on Ivory Street at the Millrace Preserve, and in the public lot at Ivoryton Green. The event is weather dependent, so we will email if it needs to be canceled. Unless your dog is a history buff, best to leave them at home. While the walk covers mostly flat ground, some terrain is uneven so please wear comfortable footwear.

  • 2026 Outdoor Summer Arts Festival

    Recurring
    Essex Town Green 12 Main street, Essex, CT, United States

    Enjoy a weekend of art, meeting artists and the outdoors at the Summer Arts Festival on the Essex Connecticut Town Green, Saturday, June 20 (10-5pm), and Sunday, June 21 (11-5pm). Presented by the Arts Center Killingworth and Spectrum Gallery in Centerbrook, the Festival is located at 12 Main Street, Essex. Find original artwork by painters working in oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, photography, and mixed media and collage. Fine crafts can be found in pottery, ceramic, wood as well as unique jewelry creations. Enjoy the attractions Essex offers including fine restaurants, New England architecture, and beautiful vistas. Pleased to announce that the 2026 Essex Festival is partially sponsored by Renewal by Andersen. The Arts Center Killingworth, the non-profit Festival Sponsor, presents several annual festivals as well as offers workshops and classes for established and beginning artists of all ages. Spectrum Gallery and Store, an expansion of the Arts Center, is a close visit from the Festival and is currently exhibiting Forces of Nature (through July 3). Spectrum showcases emerging and established artists and includes a Store that offers fine crafts in mediums such as fabric, glass, ceramics, paper, pottery, jewelry, wood and more. Gallery hours are Wednesday-Saturday (12-6pm) and Sunday (12-5pm). […]

  • EBOT Business After Hours at CT River Artisans

    CT River Artisans 55 Main Street, 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: June 25Time: 5:30 to 7 pmPlace: CT River Artisans 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/join-now-contact-form/

    Free

  • Business After Hours

    Ct River Artisans 55 Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    Please join the members of Connecticut River Artisans on June 25th when they host the monthly Business after Hours gathering.

  • American Crafts and Trades Weekend

    Recurring
    The Pratt House 19 West Avenue, Essex, CT, United States

    Join us as EHS celebrates early American crafts and trades skills with demonstrations, hands-on activities, kid crafts, and sales booths. Celebrate the America 250 with Essex Historical Society Saturday, June 27-Sunday, June 28 noon to 4:00.  Pratt House will be open for FREE tours during the festival featuring a new exhibit for America 250. This event will feature fiber arts, blacksmithing, glass arts, woodworking, domestic arts, and more! More details to come!

    Free

  • American Crafts and Trades Weekend

    Recurring
    The Pratt House 19 West Avenue, Essex, CT, United States

    Join us as EHS celebrates early American crafts and trades skills with demonstrations, hands-on activities, kid crafts, and sales booths. Celebrate the America 250 with Essex Historical Society Saturday, June 27-Sunday, June 28 noon to 4:00.  Pratt House will be open for FREE tours during the festival featuring a new exhibit for America 250. This event will feature fiber arts, blacksmithing, glass arts, woodworking, domestic arts, and more! More details to come!

    Free

  • Olive Oyl’s 4th of July Block Party

    Olive Oyl's 6 Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    Join us with your family, friends, and 4 legged pals to celebrate our country's 250th birthday with good food and better times! Car show from 9 to 11 am with classic cars, hot rods, vintage trucks and motorcycles Live music from 10 to 12 am Del's frozen lemonade Open 7:30 am to 1 pm

  • Ivoryton Village 4th of July Parade

    Ivoryton Village Green Ivoryton, United States

    Celebrate the Fourth in Ivoryton!Check out all the fun happening around the village and join us for a great time of community, food, and festivities!Then head to downtown Essex in the afternoon for the boat parade!

    Free

  • Independence Day Boat Parade

    Connecticut River Museum 67 Main St, Essex, CT, United States

    Join the Connecticut River Museum this Independence Day for an afternoon of excitement, learning and fun! Enjoy a spectacle of dazzling boat displays and cannon fire after visiting the Museum exhibits and participating in a children’s activity. In celebration of America’s 250th, admission to the Museum will have a discount of $2.50. Event Schedule: 12:00 pm: Museum opens 2:00 pm: Independence Day Boat Parade begins 3:00 pm: Museum closes

  • 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

  • CANCELED DUE TO AIR QUALITY ALERT: 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

  • EBOT Business After Hours at the Marshmallow Factory

    The Marshmallow Factory 1 North Main Street #8, 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: July 23Time: 5 to 7 pmPlace: The Marshmallow Factory 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/join-now-contact-form/

    Free

  • Sidewalk Sale!

    Recurring
    Essex Village

    Stroll through the village and shop for seasonal savings from your favorite local businesses, discovering hidden gems along the way. Participating businesses in downtown Essex will be exploding with specials and sales. Don't miss out on the good finds at this annual sidewalk sale event!

    Free

  • Sidewalk Sale!

    Recurring
    Essex Village

    Stroll through the village and shop for seasonal savings from your favorite local businesses, discovering hidden gems along the way. Participating businesses in downtown Essex will be exploding with specials and sales. Don't miss out on the good finds at this annual sidewalk sale event!

    Free

  • CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER: 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

  • Thursdays on the Dock

    Recurring
    Connecticut River Museum 67 Main St, Essex, CT, United States

    Thursdays on the Dock at the Connecticut River Museum Thursdays on the Dock has been a shoreline staple for 17 years and remains the premier destination for waterfront music. Swing by each Thursday evening in July and August, bring a chair or blanket, listen to a free concert, and watch the sun go down over the river. July 30- Not Sorry August 6- 102D Army Band August 13- Cherry Pie August 20- The Italics August 27- Local Honey Click here for more details: https://ctrivermuseum.org/thursdays-on-the-dock-2026/

  • Essex Board of Trade’s 2nd Annual Photo Contest!

    In celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary, the Essex Board of Trade invites photographers of all ages to capture the people, places, traditions, and moments that make Essex, Centerbrook, and Ivoryton uniquely American. Theme: The Essex Experience America 250 Prize: The winning photograph will be professionally framed and exhibited at the historic Essex Art Association Gallery. Contest Timeline Photo Submission Period: August 1–15 Public Voting on EssexCT.com: August 15–22 The five photographs receiving the most public votes will advance to a final judging panel. How to Enter Capture a photograph that reflects the spirit, history, character, or community of Essex, Centerbrook, or Ivoryton. Submit up to five high-quality photographs between August 1 and August 15 through EssexCT.com using this link: https://essexct.com/the-essex-experience-america-250-photo-contest-submissions/ Encourage friends and family to vote during the public voting period. The top five vote-getters will be reviewed by a judging panel, which will select the winning image. Whether it’s a historic landmark, a local tradition, waterfront beauty, community gathering, or everyday village life, show us what makes The Essex Experience special as we celebrate America 250.

  • 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

  • Thursdays on the Dock

    Recurring
    Connecticut River Museum 67 Main St, Essex, CT, United States

    Thursdays on the Dock at the Connecticut River Museum Thursdays on the Dock has been a shoreline staple for 17 years and remains the premier destination for waterfront music. Swing by each Thursday evening in July and August, bring a chair or blanket, listen to a free concert, and watch the sun go down over the river. July 30- Not Sorry August 6- 102D Army Band August 13- Cherry Pie August 20- The Italics August 27- Local Honey Click here for more details: https://ctrivermuseum.org/thursdays-on-the-dock-2026/

  • 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

  • Thursdays on the Dock

    Recurring
    Connecticut River Museum 67 Main St, Essex, CT, United States

    Thursdays on the Dock at the Connecticut River Museum Thursdays on the Dock has been a shoreline staple for 17 years and remains the premier destination for waterfront music. Swing by each Thursday evening in July and August, bring a chair or blanket, listen to a free concert, and watch the sun go down over the river. July 30- Not Sorry August 6- 102D Army Band August 13- Cherry Pie August 20- The Italics August 27- Local Honey Click here for more details: https://ctrivermuseum.org/thursdays-on-the-dock-2026/

  • Essex 250 Family Concert at the Ivoryton Village Green

    Ivoryton Green Ivoryton, CT, United States

     CELEBRATE ESSEX 250! Join us THIS WEDNESDAY for a special Essex 250 Family Concert at the Ivoryton Village Green! Wednesday, August 19 6:00 PM Ivoryton Village Green Featuring Southern VoiceBring your lawn chairs, blankets, family, friends, and a picnic and help us celebrate 250 years of Essex! The evening will also feature: Photo Booth Face Painting Dessert & Special Essex 250 Commemorative CakeCome enjoy a great night of live music, community, and celebration as we mark this very special milestone for Essex. Happy 250th, Essex — we hope to see you there! 

  • Thursdays on the Dock

    Recurring
    Connecticut River Museum 67 Main St, Essex, CT, United States

    Thursdays on the Dock at the Connecticut River Museum Thursdays on the Dock has been a shoreline staple for 17 years and remains the premier destination for waterfront music. Swing by each Thursday evening in July and August, bring a chair or blanket, listen to a free concert, and watch the sun go down over the river. July 30- Not Sorry August 6- 102D Army Band August 13- Cherry Pie August 20- The Italics August 27- Local Honey Click here for more details: https://ctrivermuseum.org/thursdays-on-the-dock-2026/

  • EBOT Business After Hours at Essex Corinthian Yacht Club

    Essex Corinthian Yacht Club 9 Novelty Lane, Essex, 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: August 27Time: 5 to 7 pmPlace: Essex Corinthian Yacht Club 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/join-now-contact-form/

    Free

  • Thursdays on the Dock

    Recurring
    Connecticut River Museum 67 Main St, Essex, CT, United States

    Thursdays on the Dock at the Connecticut River Museum Thursdays on the Dock has been a shoreline staple for 17 years and remains the premier destination for waterfront music. Swing by each Thursday evening in July and August, bring a chair or blanket, listen to a free concert, and watch the sun go down over the river. July 30- Not Sorry August 6- 102D Army Band August 13- Cherry Pie August 20- The Italics August 27- Local Honey Click here for more details: https://ctrivermuseum.org/thursdays-on-the-dock-2026/

  • EAA Annual Meeting and “Celebrating EAA’s 80th” Opening Reception

    The Essex Art Association 10 N Main Street, Essex, CT, United States

    An 80th Anniversary is something to celebrate, and we are excited to share details about the upcoming show! with the theme "Celebrating EAA’s 80th" The annual meeting will start at 5 pm, followed immediately be the opening reception, with awards at 7 pm. The winner of the Essex Board of Trade's 2nd Annual Photo Contest will be on display.  We will have chef-created small bites, wine, refreshments, and sweets by JOY Chocolate Co and the Marshmallow Factory.  There will also be a raffle for a free EAA 2027 membership! Please join us in celebrating our 80th year; admission is free!

    Free

  • Lunch and Learn with special host Rachel Lenda, Director of Tourism at the State of Connecticut Tourism Office!

    Brickside Pizza 104 Main Street, Unit C, Ivoryton, CT, United States

    New: Lunch and Learn! Please join us for "At the Table", a Lunch and Learn Feature with special host Rachel Lenda, Director of Tourism at the State of Connecticut Tourism Office. Thursday, September 24, 2026 at Brickside Pizza in Ivoryton starting at noon with speaker at 12:30 pm Reserve your spot HERE.  Members are $20 and Non-Members are $30  

    $20

  • Get ready to submit your scarecrow to the EBOT Scarecrow Contest!

    Essex Plaza Laundry 1 Essex Plaza, Essex, CT, United States

    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. This year’s theme is "Haunted History"! Scarecrow drop-off is September 29th and 30th at Essex Plaza Laundry. The scarecrows will be on display all October, so stroll the streets, snap photos, and share your favorites! Voting to start Saturday, October 3rd online at essexct.com

    Free

  • FestiFall 2026

    FestiFall is on Saturday, October 3rd from 1 to 4 pm. This years theme: Haunted History!  FestiFall is proudly sponsored by The Essex Board of Trade, Blissful Beauty, Brickside Pizza, Edward Jones - Essex, Essex Financial, Essex Historical Society, and The Hosting Company. Fun free activities include: Pencil & Wool – “Faces of Essex” canvas – in front of post office (rain plan inside) Blissful Beauty – face painting, temporary tattoos, and hair tinsel CT River Museum – RiverTales crafts outside, and music by Ben Grosgrove inside Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt Free crafts throughout town Dirty Soda food truck Lawn games Free caricatures Petting Zoo Free photos at the gazebo Music by The Saltines We will also have free pumpkins available; donations are welcome. Get yours to carve for the Ivoryton Pumpkin Festival! Click here for the activities map:  EBOT Scarecrow Festifal Flyer Oct 2026 8.5x11

    Free