All Weekend 

Sheffield Island Cruises and Lighthouse Tours (Fairfield County)
Head over to the Norwalk Seaport Association's dock (next to the Maritime Aquarium) and set out for a harbor cruise and tour the the Sheffield Island Lighthouse. Originally activated in 1868, the Sheffield Island Lighthouse, which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was in service for 34 years until its retirement in 1902. Cruises depart at 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. on the weekends (weekday cruises at 11:00 am and 3:00 pm kick off this Monday, June 23rd). $22 adults, $12 children 4-12, $5 children under 3. Reservations suggested.

Soupstock (Fairfield County) 
Soupstock Music and Arts Festival returns to Veteran's Memorial Park in Shelton for it's 5th Year. It features two Stages of live Music, a soup and chili cook off, and a kid fun zone that includes a rock climbing wall, live music, and a variety of activities await those who attend! $5 for adults; children 12 and under are free. Saturday and Sunday.

Hartford Blooms (Hartford County) 
The Hartford Blooms Garden Tour is a nine-day showcase of Hartford’s spectacular gardens and historic architecture, starting at the world-famous Elizabeth Park Rose Garden known for its two and one-half acre garden featuring more than 800 varieties of roses (read about our recent visit), and including private and public gardens within Hartford’s diverse and eclectic neighborhoods, a visit to a historic site, and the opportunity to purchase meals/beverages at some of Hartford’s favorite eateries and private clubs. $10 per tour book. Until June 29th.

Midsummer Fantasy Renaissance Faire (New Haven County) 
This is opening weekend for the  Midsummer Fantasy Renaissance Faire, a world of history and imagination with an interactive village full of music, magic and fun, in Warsaw Park. Guests of all ages can explore an interactive fantasy world where elves, fairies, orcs, goblins, animal-kin, dwarves, and magic are real. Patrons are encouraged (though not required) to dress up as one of our fantasy races to enhance your immersion in the storyline. Fun for the whole family. $16 for adults; $11 young adults (ages 10-14); $6 children (ages 5-9); free for children 5 and under. Saturday and Sunday.

Saturday, June 21st

The Zerbini Family Circus (Fairfield County) 
Spend some time under the big top on Saxe Middle School field for the 5th Annual New Canaan Family Circus featuring the famous Zerbini family! Kick off summer with aerialists, clowns, acrobats, jugglers, camel rides, food, and fun for the entire family! Showtimes are at 1:30, 4:00, and 6:30. $20 in advance; $25 at the door; kids 2 and under are free.

Cedar Hill Butterfly Hunt (Hartford County)
Hunt for butterflies with Roy Zartarian and the Connecticut Butterfly Association. Cedar Hill supports a significant butterfly population, with nearly 20 species spotted here. Appropriate hiking shoes, long pants, and bug repellent are recommended. Free. Recommended for ages 5 and up.

Laurie Berkner Solo: The You and Me Tour (Hartford County)
The Bushnell Theater in Hartford is hosting children’s music superstar Laurie Berkner, who will perform all of your favorites, plus songs from the new album, Laurie Berkner Lullabies. $28.50 per ticket (children under one year who will be sitting on a lap are free).

Golden Oldies Fire Truck and Antique Car Show (New Haven County) 
Experience the way your grandparents traveled around town at the 2014 “Golden Oldies” antique transportation show at the Shore Line Trolly Museum in East Haven. Automobiles and fire trucks that date from throughout the 20th Century will be on display. Children of all ages will be able to climb aboard the engines wearing their special gift: their very own firefighter’s helmet! $10 for adults; $6 for childen (age 2-15); free for children under 2.

Sunday, June 22nd

Fairfield Summer Concert (Fairfield County) 
This summer concert series held on Sherman Green is one of our favorites. They have concerts several times during the week, but the 7:00 p.m. concerts on Sunday nights are our favorites. We sit out in the twilight on our blanket and our beach chairs and pretend the weekend isn't ending. This evening's concert features the rock and roll band The Distractions. Free.

Market Madness Sundays (Fairfield County) 
Support local farmers and explore the Stamford Museum & Nature Center through hands-on activities and crafts, including a self-guided craft on the Meadow, oxen demonstrations, and lunch with Bert & Edie, North American River Otters. Get an SM&NC Farm Journal and discover the "Mystery Food of the Week" by learning each week about an ingredient featured at the market. Get a stamp in your journal and use multi-stamped journals to win a prize. While you're there, be sure to check out the new Treehouses exhibit that opens this weekend. Included with museum admission ($10 for adults; $5 for children 4-17; children 3 and under are free).

Rock Cats Baseball (Hartford County) 
They haven't moved to Hartford yet! At 1:30 on Sunday, head to the New Britain stadium to watch the Rock Cats take on the Fighting Phils of Reading. They'll also celebrate Rocky the mascot's birthday with all of his mascot friends. and fans 12 and under are invited to run the bases like the pros after the game concludes. Tickets priced from $6.00 to $22.00.