All Weekend

Chester Fair (Central CT) 
Since 1877, this has been a signature event in town. For three days, enjoy a great selection of live music including country, Irish folk, blues, rock and roll, and more. The kids' activities include magic show, family trivia, frog jumping, sponge painting and making balloon critters. Visit the midway for rides, and animal judging with your favorites from the farm. The Racing and swimming pigs are likely worth the price of admission.
Friday through Sunday. Adults - $8; kids 10 and under are free. 

Brooklyn Fair (Eastern CT)
Billed as one of the longest-running agricultural fairs in the country, there is something for all ages. A full slate of livestock/animal judging and demonstrations, as well as home and garden competitions. Learn about history at the country store and museum or hit the midway for rides and games. Watch a sand sculpture competition, dog show, skillet toss and more. Kids will love the Playland area, free games and activities such as Be a Farmer For the Day, water races, petal tractor obstacle course and other unique events.  Try your hand at cupcake decorating with a "fair food" theme. Runs Thursday through Sunday. Adults - $10; kids 12 and under are free. 

Back 2 School Bash at the CT Science Center (Hartford County) 
A celebration to get the little ones excited for school. Visit with Buddy, T-Rex from the show "Dinosaur Train" and see "Monkey Monkey Music" featuring Meredith LeVande. Face painting, arts and crafts, and the exhibit "Math Alive" is coming to a close, so you won't want to miss that. 
Saturday and Sunday. Free with purchase of general admission, Adults - $19; Children - $14.

Kent Firemen's Fair (Litchfield County) 
Come support the Kent Volunteer Firemen as they raise funds for equipment and maintenance. There will be a parade, games, food and carnival rides. The cake booth, bingo and white elephant tent are festival favorites. Thursday through Saturday. Free admission but must purchase tickets for rides.

2nd CT Heavy Artillery Civil War Reenactment and Living History Weekend in Woodbury (Litchfield County) 
History buffs will want to flock to one of the premier reenactment in New England. Over 350 are scheduled to participate in unique and elaborate battle scenes and formal Union and Confederate camps. Take part in a scavenger hunt and teach the entire family about the Civil War. Artillery firing, games, toys and military drills will entertain throughout the day. Food vendors and period sutlers will be on hand. Saturday and Sunday. Adults - $10; Students/Seniors - $5; Children (4-10) - $4; Under 5 - free 

Saturday, August 24th

Kids Who Tri Succeed Children's Triathlon in Mansfield (Eastern CT) 
Eight years strong, this event helps ages 4-14 reach their fitness goals and gain confidence. A triathlon consists of a swim, bike and run. The distances of each leg vary on the age group, and you must bring your own bathing suit, towel, bike, helmet, and shoes. Helmets are mandatory and training wheels are allowed for the youngest group. Water and food will be provided. Participants will be capped at 150, so register today to secure a spot. $25 per person. 

Farewell to Summer Night Hike in New Canaan (Fairfield County)
Test your nocturnal senses as you venture out on this guided hike. Come dressed for the weather and be prepared to be in the dark outside for at least one hour. Please, no flashlights. Staff will have emergency lights. Space is limited, so please call ahead to register. Members - $6; non-members - $10. 

Guided Hike at Common Ground  (New Haven County) 
Children 6 and up and their caregivers will hike to Lake Wintergreen, a spot with gorgeous views and cool air. Bring water and a snack, and dress for the elements with proper shoes, sunscreen and bug spray. Free admission. 

Summer's Last Roar at Yale Peabody Museum (New Haven County) 
This is a wonderful opportunity to see the impressive Peabody Museum of Natural History for free. See all permanent and temporary exhibits, including "Echoes of Egypt: Conjuring the Land of the Pharaohs" and "Return of the 17-Year Cicadas." Visitors can win door prizes and enjoy puppet shows. Free admission. 

Woofstock in Branford (New Haven County) 
A day of peace and music to help raise money for the Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter, helping homeless animals since 2003. No pets are allowed, but attendees are asked to bring a donation of $5 or one of the following items: rawhide bones, bleach, kitten food and pet toys.  Live music, children's activities and a silent auction round out the fun. Please, no pets allowed. Free Admission. 

Sunday, August 25th

Wadsworth Mansion Open Air Market and Festival in Middletown (Central CT) 
This picturesque, historic mansion turns their grounds into a festival and marketplace. Enjoy music and art, as you stroll along shopping vendors. CT-grown fruit and vegetables will be a plenty, as well as local artisans selling hand-made products. Free admission. 

RCA Summer Music Concert in Rowayton (Fairfield County) 
Beautiful Pinkney Park, with a view of the waterfront, is the venue for these free outdoor concerts beginning at 5:30PM. Bring the entire family and your chairs or blankets. Have a picnic dinner while you listen to the sounds of Johnny Winter, the Grammy-nominated Texas guitar slinger, known for his mastery of the blues. 

Taste of Apples and Honey at Brooksvale Park in Hamden (New Haven County) 
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year begins on the evening of Wednesday, September 4th. But get an early start on the celebration at this free, family event. Activities for the kids and learning sessions for adults. Even if you aren't Jewish, this is a great opportunity to introduce your family to the culture and heritage of this high holy day. Free.

Be sure to Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for updated information throughout the week.  You can also check out our Pinterest boards to get some great summer ideas.  And as always, visit our events calendar where you will find fun things to do every day. If you enjoy Mommy Poppins CT, please tell your friends and local businesses about us!

Have a wonderful weekend!