Hartford

Halloween Events in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Sun, 10/07/2018 - 3:41pm

Holy Howling Halloween! The spookiest time of the year is quickly approaching and families are planning the best way for their little ghouls to enjoy the season. If you live near the Hartford-area, there are many not-so-scary events to squeeeeze into your creepy calendar. And of course, don't forget to check out Mommy Poppins' Ultimate Fall Guide.

Pumpkin Patches in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Tania Pesce on Fri, 09/21/2018 - 5:00pm

The farm fields are brimming with bright orange pumpkins just waiting to be picked and painted, carved, or baked into scrumptious desserts. Pumpkin picking is one of the most beloved fall activities and there is no shortage of patches in the greater Hartford area. Head out on a crisp autumn day and find just the right pumpkin to decorate with your child. Don't forget to roast and enjoy the seeds! For even more fall fun, check out our CT Fall Fun and Halloween Guide.

Apples, Pumpkins, and Corn Mazes: 50 Fall Fairs in Connecticut You Can't Miss

Submitted by Jacqueline Miller on Fri, 09/07/2018 - 2:00pm

Fall is an amazing time to be in Connecticut, with wonderful fairs and festivals nearly every weekend, celebrating the many aspects of Nutmeg life, from apples to pumpkins and beyond. Most of these have free admission, but charge small fees for specific rides or activities so you'll want to confirm that before heading out. Check out our complete Fall Fun Guide too for more ideas on how to enjoy the season!

25 Free Things to Do In August

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Tue, 07/31/2018 - 8:46am

It's the last month before summer break ends and all your kiddos head back to school. You want to have fun, but you don't want to go broke! After all, that school shopping list is looming over your head. Mommy Poppins has put together a fun list of FREE events happening in Connecticut - there's something for everyone. And of course, don't forget to close out your fun summer with our CT Summer Guide!

August GoList: The Best Things To Do With CT Kids This Month

Submitted by Mary Beth Lawlor on Sun, 07/29/2018 - 5:58am

We've curated 34 of our favorite things to do in Connecticut this August. Fairs, festivals, sunflower mazes, and loads of fun events are occurring throughout the state. Take the kids to enjoy jazz on the lawn at Bushnell Park, to the Annual Easton Fireman's Carnival, or Pirates and the Sea Day in New London. Remember to check out our Summer Fun Guide to make the most out of this last month of summer. Have fun!

End of Summer Bucket List: 30Things To Do in CT Before School Starts

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Tue, 07/24/2018 - 10:00am

Before pool noodles and beach towels get stored away for another season, and late summer nights are replaced by bedtime curfews and homework, (at least) 30 must-do activities await in Connecticut, a great place to raise kids. So don't pack up the flip flops or exile the picnic basket to storage just yet. There are still a few weeks before school buses begin to line at the curb, allowing us to capitalize on the time left and give summer a proper send-off, making more memories sure to keep hearts warm in the cold days to come.

10 Charming Small Towns in Connecticut You Need to Explore with Kids

Submitted by Ally Noel on Thu, 07/12/2018 - 10:15am

Some states are defined by their skyscrapers and sprawling metropolises, but Connecticut is distinguished from its 169 towns that dot the countryside, hills, and coastline. While you may come here to shop, enjoy a cup of coffee at a local cafe, or cruise the countryside - there is a lot of history hiding behind those white picket fences.

Make a Splash and Learn to Swim at Hartford Area Pools

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Mon, 07/02/2018 - 12:00pm

Several indoor pools in the Hartford are offer open swim times and lessons to refresh you on a hot day or help you think sunny thoughts on a cold day. Some require town residency, while others are open to nonresidents. It’s a great way to get the family some exercise even when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Plus, swimming is a lifelong skill that enhances safety and increases opportunities for fun. For more enrichment and after school classes check out our Guide.

47 Summer Day Trips in Connecticut for Families

Submitted by Anna Fader on Mon, 07/02/2018 - 5:00am

Every summer weekend is an opportunity to create a mini family vacation, as easily as jumping in the car. They’re grouped by area so you can easily create your own itinerary. Click through each link for more information and inspiration. Find even more summer activities in our Connecticut Summer Fun Guide.

Music Classes for Children in Central Connecticut

Submitted by Tania Pesce on Sun, 06/10/2018 - 11:15am

Not only is music a wonderful source of creative expression, but the benefits of having music a part of your child’s daily life are endless. Music has been known to be critical for brain development, fostering self-esteem, improving language, and building many other great skills. If your child is interested in vocal or dance classes, there are many options to choose from in the Hartford area. Here is also an extensive list of schools that offer instrument lessons or other music class programs. For even more fun ideas, check out our After School Classes Guide.