Farmington

11 Spring Fairs & Festivals in Central Connecticut

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Sun, 04/15/2018 - 12:00pm

April showers bring May flowers, and along with all the colorful blossoms come an array of springtime celebrations. The Hartford and New Haven areas are bursting with exciting outdoor family festivals in April, May, and June. These eleven events feature crafts, delicious treats, family-friendly activities, and boundless fun. So head outside with the children and enjoy all that spring in Central Connecticut has to offer.

Easter Egg Hunts and Events in Connecticut

Submitted by Makayla O'Keefe on Fri, 03/09/2018 - 1:52pm

Hippity Hoppity Easter's on its way! That's right folks, the Easter Bunny is coming to town. And, if you're like us and you can't wait any longer for Springtime, Cadbury Eggs and Easter bonnets, we've got you covered. With glow-in-the-dark egg hunts, train rides and bunny breakfasts and brunch, we have rounded up a seriously comprehensive list of bunny sightings and egg-stravaganzas across the state. Hint: March 24th seems to be a very popular date for Easter Egg hunting. Most of these events are geared towards preschoolers and younger elementary age children, so keep that in mind if you have older children. Also note that some events require pre-registration and/or prepayment. Have a hopping good time!

St. Patrick's Day Events in Connecticut

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Sat, 03/03/2018 - 10:00am

It's March and you know what that means...St. Patrick's Day! While St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are often thought of as mostly adult-oriented (usually associated with pints of Guinness), there are many kid-friendly ways to celebrate the holiday with wee little ones. Check out the following great family events to celebrate St. Patty's Day in Connecticut. Erin Go Bragh!

Haunted Halloween Happenings for Everyone in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Tania Pesce on Mon, 09/04/2017 - 7:32am

There's something about fall that lends itself to haunted happenings. Maybe it's the first chill in the air or the rustle of dying leaves that stir up the spirit of the season. If your family is looking for some spooky (or not so spooky) fun in the Hartford Area, we have rounded the seasons best bets for kids of all ages. Read on and read carefully as some of these are really not intended for the smaller set.

Cornfest, Hay Day, and Parks Galore: 25 Things to Do This Fall in Hartford County

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Wed, 08/23/2017 - 12:38pm

Fall is my favorite season: there are so many fun activities available in the greater Hartford region in that short stretch of comfortable weather punctuated by New England foliage. Inevitably, by the time November rolls around, there are at least ten things that I wished I’d done but either I didn’t think of them, or I didn’t get around to them. To help you make the most of this fall season, we've compiled a list of fall favorites (including some indoor activities for those rainy days). If you get around to all of them, you’re my hero.

Old School Diners and Ice Cream Parlors in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Wed, 07/05/2017 - 11:29am

For some good, old-fashioned comfort food and a blast from the past, check out these vintage, retro diners and ice cream parlors in the Hartford area. Adults will love the old school vibe while kids will love farm fresh ice cream and shakes!

Horse Riding in the Greater Hartford Area

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Sun, 06/04/2017 - 12:23pm

My now 6-year old daughter has been a horse-lover ever since her first pony ride at a town fair. After several casual rides she began begging me for “real” horseback riding lessons. Luckily, we live in a state that has the highest density of horses in the country, and the greater Hartford area has no shortage of options! Many of these locations offer private and group lessons as well as pony rides and birthday parties. Check out more equestrian camps in the Litchfield County area too.

Hiking with the Family in Hartford County, CT

Submitted by Tania Pesce on Thu, 02/23/2017 - 8:56pm

Getting out into nature serves us all well. Going out on a family hike is a wonderful thing to do with the kids. Most of the hikes listed are easy enough that even your little ones can join in. Get your sneakers on, head outdoors and enjoy some of New England’s beautiful foliage along the trails in Hartford County. And for a change of pace, check out some of these family friendly hikes in Fairfield County.

Gluten-Free/Allergy-Friendly Places for Tasty Eats in Connecticut

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Sat, 01/14/2017 - 1:00pm

Going out to eat should not be stressful, but when someone in your family has a food sensitivity or even worse, allergy, it can feel like more of a chore than a pleasant experience.
This list includes places to grab food in Connecticut that are both kid and allergy friendly. We’ve also made special note of those that are 100% gluten-free or have a dedicated fryer to prevent cross-contamination. With a little planning, you should be able to find a restaurant that everyone in your family can enjoy! Note: always speak up about your allergies right away to make sure an establishment can cater to your needs.

Hartford Area Sledding Hills

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Fri, 12/16/2016 - 8:03pm

The first storm of the season creates quite a stir for those of us who excitedly await a winter wonderland. Sure, building snowmen and having snowball fights leave us breathless with fun, but it's hard to match the thrill of holding tight to a sled while careening down a hill on a quest to be the one who finishes first and travels the farthest. For a truly great sledding experience, check out these awesome hills in the Hartford area. Winter lasts only about 12 weeks, so pack a thermos with hot chocolate, maybe grab an extra pair of mittens and socks (don't forget lip balm and sunscreen!), and embrace the snowy adventures.

If you are looking to explore more winter activities, check out our Ski and Snow Sports Guide. Mount Southington for downhill skiing and Winding Trails for cross-country are two local attractions worth exploring. Sledding fun also awaits in Fairfield County.