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RiverFare 2025

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

Join the Connecticut River Museum for RiverFare 2025! Delight in an evening of delicious food, wines, cocktails, music and more while enjoying the beautiful river views from the Museum’s front lawn. Local restaurants and caterers provide delectable samples of their culinary talents. Enjoy tastings from wineries and breweries of the Connecticut River Valley. Do not miss the luxury-filled silent auction! RiverFare 2025 takes place on the front lawn of the Museum, under a tent with fabulous views of the Connecticut River. $80 Individual ticket ($95 at the door) $165 Single Patron ticket. See it. Want it. Buy it. Use your Patron level ticket to lock in great prices on select items with no bidding needed. Plus, all patron-level tickets include a choice of complimentary drink or raffle ticket. Purchase Tickets

$80

Shanties & Sails: Johnson Girls

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

Shanties & Sails are back! Enjoy an evening of Sea Shanties. Hear talented shanty and sea-song musicians for a FREE one-hour live performance. Add to your evening to continue the fun. Book a trip on the Onrust! Shanties: Free! Onrust: $25.  Sail aboard the Onrust with the performers! This music series is generously supported by Privé Swiss Wellness. The Johnson Girls:  Internationally acclaimed, The Johnson Girls have been a force on the folk and maritime music scene for the past 28 years as the leading all-woman, a cappella maritime group in the world. Believing that sea chanteys and sea songs were the first real “World Music,” Joy Bennett, Alison Kelley, Bonnie Milner, and Deirdre Murtha each bring a special influence to their music. Whether performing chanteys with hair-raising harmonies or sharing tender ballads at intimate venues, folk clubs, or packed international folk festivals in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, and Europe, The Johnson Girls remain true to their mission of keeping chantey singing alive, bringing women’s voices to the fore, and sweeping their audiences along in a tidal fervor. ONRUST is a re-creation of the vessel Adriaen Block built in 1614. Built over several years in upstate New York […]

Recurring

River Tales: The Rhythm of the Rain

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

Swing by the Connecticut River Museum for take-home craft activities that engage kids with the Connecticut River’s stunning wildlife and rich history! Crafts will take place in the Museum’s Boathouse. A program just for kids 4+ and their caregivers, River Tales includes a story and craft activity themed around nature.  Non-members: $3 per learner, Members: FREE! As rain starts to fall, Isaac empties his little jar of water into a pool. Water races the sparkling streams as they tumble over waterfalls, rush through swollen rivers and burst out into the vast open sea. In June, we’ll read The Rhythm of the Rain, a picture book from Greenaway medal-winner, Grahame Baker-Smith that celebrates the water cycle and captures the remarkable movement of water across the earth in all its majesty. Questions? Email astromberger@ctrivermuseum.org. The Connecticut River Museum may photograph this event. By participating, you agree to allow photos to be posted on the Connecticut River Museum’s website, Facebook page, Instagram feed, and other media.

$3

Shanties & Sails: Rick Spencer and Dawn Indermuehle

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

Shanties & Sails are back! Enjoy an evening of Sea Shanties. Hear talented shanty and sea-song musicians for a FREE one-hour live performance. Add to your evening to continue the fun. Book a trip on the Onrust! Shanties: FREE, Onrust: $25 This music series is generously supported by Privé Swiss Wellness. Rick Spencer and Dawn Indermuehle develop and present theme-based music and history programs, performing songs that give cultural insight into interesting times, places, and events in American history. Rick and Dawn carefully craft their vocals and accompaniment to sound as true to a song’s era or style as possible. Their vast repertoire includes music from the Colonial era to the present day. Rick and Dawn use these songs to illustrate the evolution of our nation’s culture and history in an informative and entertaining way. Onrust is a re-creation of the vessel Adriaen Block built in 1614. Built over several years in upstate New York using traditional plans and means, the Onrust is a wholly unique ship that serves to educate and entertain visitors curious about the age of exploration, the fur trade, and our early colonial history. She is available for public cruises as well as private charters.

Free

Shanties & Sails: My Druthers

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

Shanties & Sails are back! Enjoy an evening of Sea Shanties. Hear talented shanty and sea-song musicians for a FREE one-hour live performance. Add to your evening to continue the fun. Book a trip on the Onrust! Shanties: FREE, Onrust: $25 This music series is generously supported by Privé Swiss Wellness. My Druthers Rebel songs of Ireland & the Sea! Consisting of a rotating lineup of all-stars from the Connecticut music scene, My Druthers has had shows throughout New England, the Midwest & Southeastern US, as well as Thailand, Singapore, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Renowned for their raucous & rowdy take on the age-old tradition, it’s hard not to raise a pint, stomp your feet, and sing along with these salty rebels and CT shantymen! ONRUST Onrust is a re-creation of the vessel Adriaen Block built in 1614. Built over several years in upstate New York using traditional plans and means, the Onrust is a wholly unique ship that serves to educate and entertain visitors curious about the age of exploration, the fur trade, and our early colonial history. She is available for public cruises as well as private charters.

Free

Lectures Underway: The British Raid on Essex

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

Members: $30, Non-Members: $35 Join author and historian Jerry Roberts aboard Onrust for a trip back in time to 1814! On this special cruise, passengers will trace the path of the British Raid on Essex during the War of 1812, which saw 27 ships set aflame in the single greatest loss of American shipping of the entire war. Explore the real-world locations of this dramatic chapter in Connecticut history alongside the author of The British Raid on Essex: The Forgotten Battle of the War of 1812. Jerry Roberts has been in the history business for over 30 years. He has served as Vice President in charge of Exhibits at the Intrepid Sea Air Space Museum in New York City, and as Executive Director of the National Lighthouse Museum project in NYC, the Connecticut River Museum in Essex CT, and the New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks, CT. He has designed and built over fifty exhibits, designed and project managed several major museum expansion and infrastructure projects. He has written several books and other historic publications and has co-written and appeared in a number of documentaries. The Connecticut River Museum may record this event, including all questions, comments, etc. by the audience. […]

$35

RiverQuest Kid’s Cruise

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

On select Saturday mornings at 10:00 am, we offer a special cruise, designed for young children and their parents, grandparents, etc., aboard RiverQuest. On this cruise, we will show young children how to use binoculars, teach them about the birds we see, nautical terms, river ecology, and other points of interest. This is a fun cruise to introduce young children to the fragile beauty of the Connecticut River and it allows kids to be kids! For kids ages 2 to 12 ticket price will be only $10, ages 12 to 100 only $20.  Online booking only. 10:00 – 11:00 am: May 24 June 21 July 19 August 2

$20

Shanties & Sails: Littlefield and Morneault

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

Shanties & Sails are back! Enjoy an evening of Sea Shanties. Hear talented shanty and sea-song musicians for a FREE one-hour live performance. Add to your evening to continue the fun. Book a trip on the Onrust! Shanties: FREE, Onrust: $25 This music series is generously supported by Privé Swiss Wellness. Littlefield and Morneault Joseph Morneault, performing with David Littlefield as Littlefield and Morneault: A duo of folk music presenting ballads, the sea, and songs of local historical interest. David Littlefield is a lifetime resident of Old Lyme and has worked many years at Mystic Seaport. He is known for his scholarship on whaling and the history of the whaling ship the Morgan, as well as his songs about local businesses that supported or were supported by the shipping trades. Joseph Morneault is the president of the Maritime Music & Tradition Society, which features as its primary event the annual CT Sea Music Festival held in Essex, CT. Joseph is a social historian and author with a focus on the late 18th century, and can be regularly heard performing every Monday night at the Griswold Inn in Essex. ONRUST Onrust is a re-creation of the vessel Adriaen Block built in 1614. […]

Free
Recurring

Summer Camp: Summer Days at Bushnell Farm

Bushnell Farm

June 30, July 1, 2 & 3.  Members: $70, Non-Members: $77. Kick-off your summer with a unique, historical experience at Bushnell Farm in Old Saybrook. Travel back in time to glimpse what life was like for kids during the Colonial era. Try your hand at farming activities, woodworking projects, and cooking on an open hearth. You may even get to spin your own yarn! We’ll also play games and explore the surrounding forested grounds. Can’t commit to a full week of summer camp? Then this week is for you! You can sign up for one day or all four! Register for each day of Camp separately. Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org

$70

Recurring

Summer Camp: Summer Days at Bushnell Farm

Bushnell Farm

June 30, July 1, 2 & 3.  Members: $70, Non-Members: $77. Kick-off your summer with a unique, historical experience at Bushnell Farm in Old Saybrook. Travel back in time to glimpse what life was like for kids during the Colonial era. Try your hand at farming activities, woodworking projects, and cooking on an open hearth. You may even get to spin your own yarn! We’ll also play games and explore the surrounding forested grounds. Can’t commit to a full week of summer camp? Then this week is for you! You can sign up for one day or all four! Register for each day of Camp separately. Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org

$70
Recurring

Summer Camp: Summer Days at Bushnell Farm

Bushnell Farm

June 30, July 1, 2 & 3.  Members: $70, Non-Members: $77. Kick-off your summer with a unique, historical experience at Bushnell Farm in Old Saybrook. Travel back in time to glimpse what life was like for kids during the Colonial era. Try your hand at farming activities, woodworking projects, and cooking on an open hearth. You may even get to spin your own yarn! We’ll also play games and explore the surrounding forested grounds. Can’t commit to a full week of summer camp? Then this week is for you! You can sign up for one day or all four! Register for each day of Camp separately. Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org

$70
Recurring

Summer Camp: Summer Days at Bushnell Farm

Bushnell Farm

June 30, July 1, 2 & 3.  Members: $70, Non-Members: $77. Kick-off your summer with a unique, historical experience at Bushnell Farm in Old Saybrook. Travel back in time to glimpse what life was like for kids during the Colonial era. Try your hand at farming activities, woodworking projects, and cooking on an open hearth. You may even get to spin your own yarn! We’ll also play games and explore the surrounding forested grounds. Can’t commit to a full week of summer camp? Then this week is for you! You can sign up for one day or all four! Register for each day of Camp separately. Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org

$70

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 taking on a special scavenger hunt. Event Schedule: 12:00 pm: Museum opens 2:00 pm: Independence Day Boat Parade begins 3:00 pm: Museum closes

Free

River Tales: The Rhythm of the Rain

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

Swing by the Connecticut River Museum for take-home craft activities that engage kids with the Connecticut River’s stunning wildlife and rich history! Crafts will take place in the Museum’s Boathouse. A program just for kids 4+ and their caregivers, River Tales includes a story and craft activity themed around nature.  Non-members: $3 per learner, Members: FREE! As rain starts to fall, Isaac empties his little jar of water into a pool. Water races the sparkling streams as they tumble over waterfalls, rush through swollen rivers and burst out into the vast open sea. In June, we’ll read The Rhythm of the Rain, a picture book from Greenaway medal-winner, Grahame Baker-Smith that celebrates the water cycle and captures the remarkable movement of water across the earth in all its majesty. Questions? Email astromberger@ctrivermuseum.org. The Connecticut River Museum may photograph this event. By participating, you agree to allow photos to be posted on the Connecticut River Museum’s website, Facebook page, Instagram feed, and other media.

$3
Recurring

Summer Camp: Sailor Life & Pirates

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

Don’t miss the Museum’s most popular week of camp. Have you ever wondered what life was like out on the open water? This week, we will learn about real pirates & sailors—what they did, what they looked like, and where they traveled. We will dress in pirate garb as we learn about the vessels they sailed, the flags they flew, and how they navigated. We’ll also set sail on the open water of the Connecticut River aboard the Onrust. Arrrr you ready? Due to this week’s popularity, we are running this camp twice this summer! Sign up for one or both! Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385
Recurring

Summer Camp: Sailor Life & Pirates

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

Don’t miss the Museum’s most popular week of camp. Have you ever wondered what life was like out on the open water? This week, we will learn about real pirates & sailors—what they did, what they looked like, and where they traveled. We will dress in pirate garb as we learn about the vessels they sailed, the flags they flew, and how they navigated. We’ll also set sail on the open water of the Connecticut River aboard the Onrust. Arrrr you ready? Due to this week’s popularity, we are running this camp twice this summer! Sign up for one or both! Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385
Recurring

Summer Camp: Sailor Life & Pirates

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

Don’t miss the Museum’s most popular week of camp. Have you ever wondered what life was like out on the open water? This week, we will learn about real pirates & sailors—what they did, what they looked like, and where they traveled. We will dress in pirate garb as we learn about the vessels they sailed, the flags they flew, and how they navigated. We’ll also set sail on the open water of the Connecticut River aboard the Onrust. Arrrr you ready? Due to this week’s popularity, we are running this camp twice this summer! Sign up for one or both! Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385
Recurring

Summer Camp: Sailor Life & Pirates

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

Don’t miss the Museum’s most popular week of camp. Have you ever wondered what life was like out on the open water? This week, we will learn about real pirates & sailors—what they did, what they looked like, and where they traveled. We will dress in pirate garb as we learn about the vessels they sailed, the flags they flew, and how they navigated. We’ll also set sail on the open water of the Connecticut River aboard the Onrust. Arrrr you ready? Due to this week’s popularity, we are running this camp twice this summer! Sign up for one or both! Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385

Thursdays on the Dock: Not Sorry

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

Thursdays on the Dock has been a shoreline staple for 16 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. Get ready to rock with Not Sorry, the ultimate classic rock tribute band, returning this year to deliver the best hits from the legendary bands of the 60s through the 90s. From Led Zeppelin and Journey to Guns N’ Roses, Heart, Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, Evanescence, Blondie, and beyond – their high-energy set list has something for every rock fan. With powerhouse lead vocals from Lorianne, scorching guitar riffs from Mark Mychajluk, solid bass grooves by Nick Sirianni, and the thunderous beats of Kato Peragine on drums, Not Sorry will have you rocking on the dock! As one fan put it: “Amazing soaring vocals and a non-stop barrage of hit after hit with no breaks in between. This band absolutely smokes!” Don’t miss out on the ultimate tribute to classic rock – get ready to sing along, rock out, and experience the magic of Not Sorry! This music series is generously supported by […]

Free
Recurring

Summer Camp: Sailor Life & Pirates

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

Don’t miss the Museum’s most popular week of camp. Have you ever wondered what life was like out on the open water? This week, we will learn about real pirates & sailors—what they did, what they looked like, and where they traveled. We will dress in pirate garb as we learn about the vessels they sailed, the flags they flew, and how they navigated. We’ll also set sail on the open water of the Connecticut River aboard the Onrust. Arrrr you ready? Due to this week’s popularity, we are running this camp twice this summer! Sign up for one or both! Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385

Thursdays on the Dock: Eight to the Bar

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

Thursdays on the Dock has been a shoreline staple for 16 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. Drawing its musical influences from American roots music — swing, boogie-woogie, and Motown- Eight to the Bar is known for its outstanding instrumentalists and sophisticated musical and vocal arrangements, highlighted by female vocals. With the support of independently produced CDs and videos, Eight to the Bar has cultivated a large, enthusiastic following that has put them in clubs from Maine to Miami as well as Europe and the Caribbean. Their rigorous touring schedule has included opening spots for Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Manhattan Transfer, Robert Cray, the late Roy Orbison and Ray Charles, several European tours, and a tour of the Republic of Georgia at the invitation of the U.S. Embassy located there. This music series is generously supported by Privé Swiss Wellness. In case of inclement weather, please check our site. All updates will be shown there. Purchase a Museum-branded tumbler in our gift shop for a Thursdays on the Dock […]

Free

RiverQuest Kid’s Cruise

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

On select Saturday mornings at 10:00 am, we offer a special cruise, designed for young children and their parents, grandparents, etc., aboard RiverQuest. On this cruise, we will show young children how to use binoculars, teach them about the birds we see, nautical terms, river ecology, and other points of interest. This is a fun cruise to introduce young children to the fragile beauty of the Connecticut River and it allows kids to be kids! For kids ages 2 to 12 ticket price will be only $10, ages 12 to 100 only $20.  Online booking only. 10:00 – 11:00 am: May 24 June 21 July 19 August 2

$20
Recurring

Summer Camp: Tales & Tides

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

Join us for a magical week of arts, crafts, and storytelling along the Connecticut River! This immersive camp invites imaginative explorers to discover the rich history and natural beauty of the River while igniting their creativity and curiosity. Highlights include creating River-inspired paintings, embarking on nature walks, uncovering the myths and legends of the River, crafting original stories, and voyage out on the River boat rides on Onrust and RiverQuest. Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385
Recurring

Summer Camp: Tales & Tides

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

Join us for a magical week of arts, crafts, and storytelling along the Connecticut River! This immersive camp invites imaginative explorers to discover the rich history and natural beauty of the River while igniting their creativity and curiosity. Highlights include creating River-inspired paintings, embarking on nature walks, uncovering the myths and legends of the River, crafting original stories, and voyage out on the River boat rides on Onrust and RiverQuest. Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385
Recurring

Summer Camp: Tales & Tides

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

Join us for a magical week of arts, crafts, and storytelling along the Connecticut River! This immersive camp invites imaginative explorers to discover the rich history and natural beauty of the River while igniting their creativity and curiosity. Highlights include creating River-inspired paintings, embarking on nature walks, uncovering the myths and legends of the River, crafting original stories, and voyage out on the River boat rides on Onrust and RiverQuest. Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385
Recurring

Summer Camp: Tales & Tides

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

Join us for a magical week of arts, crafts, and storytelling along the Connecticut River! This immersive camp invites imaginative explorers to discover the rich history and natural beauty of the River while igniting their creativity and curiosity. Highlights include creating River-inspired paintings, embarking on nature walks, uncovering the myths and legends of the River, crafting original stories, and voyage out on the River boat rides on Onrust and RiverQuest. Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385

Thursdays on the Dock: Cherry Pie

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

Thursdays on the Dock has been a shoreline staple for 16 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. Jump, jive, and kick your heels up to swing, rockabilly, Latin and a few sultry ballads thrown in just for fun. With Jilian Grey and the boys, Cherry Pie is a delicious, freshly baked musical dance party with just enough retro sprinkled on top for a sweet-stepping good time! Jilian Grey and drummer Ric Haddad, together with Lou Bocciarelli on bass and Paul John Tautkus on guitar, have become a weekly favorite at the Griswold Inn and perform at many established venues along the Shoreline. Cherry Pie has garnered a loyal and enthusiastic following. This music series is generously supported by Privé Swiss Wellness. In case of inclement weather, please check our site. All updates will be shown there. Purchase a Museum-branded tumbler in our gift shop for a Thursdays on the Dock beverage coupon and discount on refill purchases! Cash bar. Please, no BYOB. Beer and wine are available for purchase. […]

Free

Recurring

Summer Camp: Tales & Tides

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

Join us for a magical week of arts, crafts, and storytelling along the Connecticut River! This immersive camp invites imaginative explorers to discover the rich history and natural beauty of the River while igniting their creativity and curiosity. Highlights include creating River-inspired paintings, embarking on nature walks, uncovering the myths and legends of the River, crafting original stories, and voyage out on the River boat rides on Onrust and RiverQuest. Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385

RiverQuest Kid’s Cruise

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

On select Saturday mornings at 10:00 am, we offer a special cruise, designed for young children and their parents, grandparents, etc., aboard RiverQuest. On this cruise, we will show young children how to use binoculars, teach them about the birds we see, nautical terms, river ecology, and other points of interest. This is a fun cruise to introduce young children to the fragile beauty of the Connecticut River and it allows kids to be kids! For kids ages 2 to 12 ticket price will be only $10, ages 12 to 100 only $20.  Online booking only. 10:00 – 11:00 am: May 24 June 21 July 19 August 2

$20
Recurring

River Tales: The Rhythm of the Rain

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

Swing by the Connecticut River Museum for take-home craft activities that engage kids with the Connecticut River’s stunning wildlife and rich history! Crafts will take place in the Museum’s Boathouse. A program just for kids 4+ and their caregivers, River Tales includes a story and craft activity themed around nature.  Non-members: $3 per learner, Members: FREE! As rain starts to fall, Isaac empties his little jar of water into a pool. Water races the sparkling streams as they tumble over waterfalls, rush through swollen rivers and burst out into the vast open sea. In June, we’ll read The Rhythm of the Rain, a picture book from Greenaway medal-winner, Grahame Baker-Smith that celebrates the water cycle and captures the remarkable movement of water across the earth in all its majesty. Questions? Email astromberger@ctrivermuseum.org. The Connecticut River Museum may photograph this event. By participating, you agree to allow photos to be posted on the Connecticut River Museum’s website, Facebook page, Instagram feed, and other media.

$3

River Tales: Bear Came Along

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

Swing by the Connecticut River Museum for take-home craft activities that engage kids with the Connecticut River’s stunning wildlife and rich history. Crafts will take place in the Museum’s Boathouse. A program just for kids 4+ and their caregivers, River Tales includes a story and craft activity themed around nature. In August we’ll read Bear Came Along by Richard Morris, a Caldecott Honor book that uses river wildlife to teach young learners about the importance of community and friendship. Non-members: $3 per learner Members: Free! Museum admission is not included with ticket purchase.

$3
Recurring

Summer Camp: Sailor Life & Pirates

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

Don’t miss the Museum’s most popular week of camp. Have you ever wondered what life was like out on the open water? This week, we will learn about real pirates & sailors—what they did, what they looked like, and where they traveled. We will dress in pirate garb as we learn about the vessels they sailed, the flags they flew, and how they navigated. We’ll also set sail on the open water of the Connecticut River aboard the Onrust. Arrrr you ready? Due to this week’s popularity, we are running this camp twice this summer! Sign up for one or both! Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385
Recurring

Summer Camp: Sailor Life & Pirates

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

Don’t miss the Museum’s most popular week of camp. Have you ever wondered what life was like out on the open water? This week, we will learn about real pirates & sailors—what they did, what they looked like, and where they traveled. We will dress in pirate garb as we learn about the vessels they sailed, the flags they flew, and how they navigated. We’ll also set sail on the open water of the Connecticut River aboard the Onrust. Arrrr you ready? Due to this week’s popularity, we are running this camp twice this summer! Sign up for one or both! Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385
Recurring

Summer Camp: Sailor Life & Pirates

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

Don’t miss the Museum’s most popular week of camp. Have you ever wondered what life was like out on the open water? This week, we will learn about real pirates & sailors—what they did, what they looked like, and where they traveled. We will dress in pirate garb as we learn about the vessels they sailed, the flags they flew, and how they navigated. We’ll also set sail on the open water of the Connecticut River aboard the Onrust. Arrrr you ready? Due to this week’s popularity, we are running this camp twice this summer! Sign up for one or both! Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385
Recurring

Summer Camp: Sailor Life & Pirates

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

Don’t miss the Museum’s most popular week of camp. Have you ever wondered what life was like out on the open water? This week, we will learn about real pirates & sailors—what they did, what they looked like, and where they traveled. We will dress in pirate garb as we learn about the vessels they sailed, the flags they flew, and how they navigated. We’ll also set sail on the open water of the Connecticut River aboard the Onrust. Arrrr you ready? Due to this week’s popularity, we are running this camp twice this summer! Sign up for one or both! Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385

Thursdays on the Dock: 102D Army Band

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

Thursdays on the Dock has been a shoreline staple for 16 years and remains the premier destination for waterfront music. Bring a chair or blanket, listen to a free concert, and watch the sun go down over the River. Enjoy a performance by the 102D Army Band, “Connecticut’s Own” Army National Guard Band, including Brass Chaos and other patriotic tunes. Beer and wine are available for purchase. Porky Pete’s BBQ and Deep River Ice will offer food and treats onsite. Museum-branded tumblers are available for beverage discounts. These events are free; we pass a hat to support the series.

Free
Recurring

Summer Camp: Sailor Life & Pirates

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

Don’t miss the Museum’s most popular week of camp. Have you ever wondered what life was like out on the open water? This week, we will learn about real pirates & sailors—what they did, what they looked like, and where they traveled. We will dress in pirate garb as we learn about the vessels they sailed, the flags they flew, and how they navigated. We’ll also set sail on the open water of the Connecticut River aboard the Onrust. Arrrr you ready? Due to this week’s popularity, we are running this camp twice this summer! Sign up for one or both! Camp runs daily, from 9 am to 3 pm. Camp is open to adventurers aged 6-11. Questions? Email our Camp Director, Lauren Bennett-Dionne lbdionne@ctrivermuseum.org. Non-Members: $385 Members: $347

$385

Full Moon Cruise on RiverQuest & Onrust

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

Join us aboard RiverQuest or Onrust for a relaxing evening cruise on the lower Connecticut River. This "journey to nowhere" is timed so that, weather permitting, you’ll see the full moon rise while enjoying twilight views, local wildlife, and points of interest. Bring your picnic dinner and favorite beverage to enjoy onboard. The cruise will run even if it’s cloudy — there’s always fun to be had on the river!

Thursdays on the Dock: Parker’s Tangent

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

Thursdays on the Dock has been a shoreline staple for 16 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. Parker’s Tangent plays rock music inspired by the sounds of the blues.Their music ranges from poetic, quiet and touching to bluesy and soulful, with vocals similar to Grace Slick and Nora Jones. Their sound includes drums, percussion, lead and rhythm guitars, bass and violin. They are a regional, professional working band based out of greater New Haven CT, with music that is extremely accessible and can be enjoyed by people of virtually all ages. They have been together over twenty years and have performed at hundreds and hundreds of bookings including Toads’ Place, the main stage of the New Haven Green, The International Festival of Arts and Ideas, Westport’s Blues, Views and Bar-B-Que Festival, the Phoenix, the Bedford Playhouse Clive Davis Art Center Long Wharf Theater, the CT Garlic and Harvest Festival and many more! This music series is generously supported by Privé Swiss Wellness. In case of inclement weather, please check […]

Free

Thursdays on the Dock: Local Honey

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

Thursdays on the Dock has been a shoreline staple for 16 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. Born out of a mutual respect for all things auditory and a humble appreciation for an organic evolution, lifelong friends Frank Natter, Erin Smith, and Abraham Wilson have embarked on an unforgettable musical journey: the band Local Honey. Steely and deliberate songwriting that casually staggers down the line between rhythm and melody, laced with loose yet conscious jams, and extraordinary vocals will transport any listener to another realm. Experiencing an amazing live show is one of life’s sweetest pleasures and for the person who is treated to Local Honey, they will be given music performed with pure emotion, raw talent, and endless gratitude. This music series is generously supported by Privé Swiss Wellness. In case of inclement weather, please check our site. All updates will be shown there.

Free

Tree Swallow Sunset Trips on Onrust & RiverQuest

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

Join us aboard RiverQuest and Onrust for a magical evening on the Connecticut River to witness the incredible Tree Swallow phenomenon. Each night at sunset, hundreds of thousands of Tree Swallows gather and perform stunning aerial ballets before settling into the reeds for the night. Enjoy over two hours on the water, taking in the breathtaking scenery and the unique show the swallows create. This small group experience offers a special, ever-changing glimpse into the river’s natural wonders.

$50

Block Party

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

This event will take place on the Connecticut River Museum campus and feature a full day of events geared to all ages. Attendees can look forward to food and beverage vendors along with live music, puppet shows and much much more! View the full schedule on the CRM website. RSVP online for free Museum admission.

Free

Tree Swallow Sunset Trips on Onrust & RiverQuest

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

Join us aboard RiverQuest and Onrust for a magical evening on the Connecticut River to witness the incredible Tree Swallow phenomenon. Each night at sunset, hundreds of thousands of Tree Swallows gather and perform stunning aerial ballets before settling into the reeds for the night. Enjoy over two hours on the water, taking in the breathtaking scenery and the unique show the swallows create. This small group experience offers a special, ever-changing glimpse into the river’s natural wonders.

$50

Live from the Boathouse! Steve Gephard presents Sea Lamprey: Misunderstood River Engineers

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

Sea Lamprey have a bad reputation: they invaded the Great Lakes in the mid-1800s, they suck the blood of other fish, and many consider their appearance to be off-putting. But these parasitic creatures are not all that they seem. Sea Lamprey play an important and under-recognized role in the Connecticut River ecosystem, providing food for other river species and bringing in vital nutrients from the ocean. Join Steve Gephard for a talk that dissects these misunderstood fish and challenges our ideas of which species are “good” and worthy of our appreciation. As a Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection fisheries biologist, Steve Gephard worked tirelessly for 42years to restore a viable population of Atlantic salmon and other migratory fishes in the Connecticut River. Now, he educates the public about the role fish play in the ecosystem and works with governments in North America and Europe to conserve salmon populations in the North Atlantic.

$5