Free and Fun Things to do in Connecticut this Weekend: July 23-24 Circus Train, Vibe, Nature-Palooza, Free Shakespeare

7/19/11 - By Mary Beth Lawlor

We are in the thick of it. Summer time is showing us her hot and fiery self yet the fun doesn't stop in Connecticut. One option when it's too hot outside is to let the kids climb the walls. That is, climb the walls of a rock climbing gym! This week we rounded up Fairfield County's indoor climbing gyms and we also posted about camps that cater to the special needs child. If you are looking for things to do in Litchfield County this week check out our guide about what to do this summer in the NW hills.

This weekend is full of fun and great events for the family. In Mystic there will be an Antique and Classic Boat Rendezvous all weekend that culminates into a 3 mile long parade on Sunday. In Essex: The Valley Railroad Circus Train & Big Top Show. On a vintage circus train the Ringmaster will accompany circus goers on a short train ride to the circus grounds for the thrill of an Acrobat Show in the "Big Top Tent". In Bridgeport the Vibes Concert Event ends with a Family Day and discounted tickets for CT residents. Check out our top picks for this weekend and have fun!

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ALL WEEKEND

Antique and Classic Boat Rendezvous, Mystic. The event showcases restored antique vessels built before 1965, including cruisers, sailboats, runabouts and launches.

The Valley Railroad Circus Train & Big Top Show, Essex. The Circus Midway will be bustling with "Punch & Judy" Puppet Shows, Clowns, Carnival Food and Rides. Little ones will be delighted at the Petting Zoo when they see a real live Camel and Z-Donk (half Zebra/half Donkey)!

Annual Mid Summer Harvest Festival at White Silo Farm, Sherman. Small dishes prepared with CT Grown seasonal fruits and vegetables. Live music and free farm / winery tours. Family friendly event.

CT Free Shakespeare Presents The Three Musketeers, Bridgeport. Spend the day in the Beardsley Zoo and then have a picnic before the performance of The Three Musketeers.

SATURDAY

Riverside Reptiles with Brian Kleinman, Bridgewater. Meet many different species of lizards: geckos that can climb glass, skinks with blue tongues, and a legless lizard, a cousin of the Komodo Dragon.

Homemade ice cream the 18th century way!, Litchfield, You can stop by the History Museum to try your hand at making homemade ice cream.

Nature-Palooza Family Concert, New Canaan. Bring a picnic, enjoy the tunes and then roast marshmallows by an open fire.

The Bushwhack Band at Music Mountain, Falls Village. Dance on the outdoor dance floor to the jambalaya of Cajun, Zydeco and Country music.

Southington Drive-In Saturday Nights, Southington. Drive-In to see the original Grease!

Keeping Goshen Green ‘No Stress Band’ Concert at Goshen Fair Grounds, Goshen. Bring a picnic and enjoy the concert with your family.

SUNDAY

Summer Sunday at Mahackeno, Wesport. Spend the afternoon swimming, canoeing, playing outdoor games and taking part in traditional activities such as archery as well as newer attractions like the summer camp’s 20-foot climbing wall with your family

Family Day at the Vibes, Bridgeport. Sunday attendees will be treated to performances by nine incredible bands on two stages plus special programs for kids and teens.

Second Company Governor's Annual Horse Show, Newtown. A chance to see beautiful horses from all over New England perform in over seventy classes, in two show rings.

Take Part in Art at Weir Farm, Wilton. Experience first-hand the fun of plein air painting and sketching while becoming a part of an enduring artistic tradition.

To see the full calendar listing of events for the weekend please check out the Events Calendar.

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Stay cool and have a great weekend!

Mary Beth