The unmistakable sound of bagpipers will be heard across CT this weekend at St. Patrick's Day Parades in Hartford, Milford and New Haven. The O'Putnam 5K and Wee Mile (ages 2-11) is an Irish-themed race with a post-race party. For those of you in New Haven County we've rounded up some fun events there including parades and special dinners.

The Women's Big East Basketball Tournament and Fan Fest will also be taking place in downtown Hartford. Your kids (especially the girls) will be inspired and amazed by the talent displayed on the court. Photos with mascots, face painting and tattoos will also be on hand. 

Summer is around the corner, and camp sign up's are in full swing now. Over in New London County we've rounded up some fantastic arts and drama camps. Which one to pick can be very overwhelming, so our Summer Camp and Day Camp Guide breaks it all down for you in different regions of the state - everything from special needs to performing arts to sleepaway. Most everyone likes to swim, so get ready for warmer weather by hitting the water at one of the Indoor Water Parks and Swimming Pools in New Haven. 

Maple sugaring continues this weekend, and If your children think syrup comes from Hungry Jack or Aunt Jemima, it might be time to show them how nature provides the sweetness. The Hebron Maple Festival is a two-day event where you can visit sugar houses and see how it is produced. There will be a slew of maple treats to sample, including cotton candy, donuts, cake and more. Other family-fun activites include a tractor parade, face painting and a craft fair. 

For other maple mania around the state, check out Maple Sugar Madness Welles Shipman Ward House in Glastonbury,  Pancake Breakfast & Maple Sugaring at New Britain Youth Museum, Maple Syrup Festival and Pancake Brunch at Common Ground in New Haven and Sullivan Farm in New Milford. 

The big trucks and wheels of Monster Jam invade Bridgeport this weekend. If that is not your speed, check out other theatre including Berenstain Bears Live in Ridgefield , Strawberry Shortcake Live in Wallingford, and Cinderella in New London. 

Planning a birthday party for your special one? Our party guide is a really great resource for you. From cakes, venues, ideas, and performers we've broken it down for you. It's definitely worth a look. Our latest post is for those in Central Connecticut with some great ideas for basketball, art, tennis and gym parties.

Renaissance Art and Culture will be celebrated on Family Day at Fairfield's Bellarmine Museum of Art. The Bruce Museum in Greenwich holds Family Art Appreciation Day , where you can learn how to look at animal paintings. Listen to fairy tales, make crafts and listen to Irish music at the Dragons, Gremlins and Magical Creatures event at Hartford's Wadsworth Atheneum.

If you live in Litchfield County check out our neighborhood guide. You'll find all sorts of great information about the area.

Lastly, we've all undoubtedly noticed the many sales happening right now with the change of seasons. Here's a round up of some great local stores in Fairfield County that sell toys, clothing and baby gear.

We add activities to our events calendar  daily, so be sure to check it often.  Join our nearly 1,700 friends on Facebook and follow us on Pinterest and Twitter for updates and giveaways.

Have a wonderful weekend!