My childhood is full of fond memories of fishing trips by the shores of lakes and rivers and drifting along in our silent gray canoe. Connecticut has a lively fishing culture and a lot to offer kids interested in honing up their angling. Whether you need to know about licenses or classes, or just the best spots to cast a line, read on for the whole story on the what, where, and when of fishing in Connecticut, from Candlewood Lake and Lake Zoar in western Connecticut to Black Pond and Moodus Resevoir in the East.

See our spring fun guide and summer activities guide for more ideas of enjoying waterfront activities with Connecticut kids.

Santa may be known for his sleigh, but when he's here in Connecticut, the big guy is all about trains. Starting in November, he can be found on several Polar Express and other Christmas-themed trains in Connecticut, including the ever-popular North Pole Express and Santa Special Train Ride in Essex.  In between munching on cookies, sipping on cocoa, and chatting with Santa, there is nothing like watching the steam roll and waft in front of the train's headlights—it's a magical holiday experience for kids and parents alike!  

But act fast: Tickets for some of these trains become available in the early fall and sell out even before Halloween. But even if a certain train is sold out, there's likely an available one around the bend, so read on—it's a special holiday experience worth waiting for!

It has come to my attention that Connecticut sort of owns Halloween. You'd be hard-pressed to find yourself very far from an amazing haunted house, a fun-filled parade or celebration, or a quaint New England farm decked out for All Hallow's Eve. Halloween has been jostling Christmas for the top holiday spot for some time now, and while it isn't quite a foregone conclusion yet, it's safe to say that it's come a long way from the days of pillowcase trick or treating and glow sticks. Not that these steadfast traditions are going anywhere, don't you worry. Read on for your ultimate guide to the good, the even better, and the totally terrifying across the entire state this Halloween season.