The Lewis Walpole Library's latest exhibition has been curated by Alison FitzGerald, Associate Professor in the Department of History, Maynooth University, Ireland. Open Wednesdays 2-4:30 pm and other times by appointment. On view March 5 through August 22, 2025.

This exhibition explores the range of spectacular shows that were offered to the fee-paying public in Georgian London, from exhibitions of paintings, to scientific demonstrations, to the display of wondrous animals. The exhibition primarily focuses on images drawn from the extensive collections at the Lewis Walpole Library that announce, depict and satirize what people paid to gaze at. It will consider how derogatory ideas about spectacle were expressed in caricatures and political discourse.

Details at https://walpole.library.yale.edu/programs/exhibitions#Current%20exhibit

Welcome to the Charhause Slightly Silent Book Club!

Come join us at 299 Boston Turnpike for a cozy evening of reading and discussions. Our book club is all about enjoying literature in a relaxed setting. Whether you're a bookworm or just looking to try something new, this event is perfect for all levels of readers.

Grab your favorite book, settle in with a warm drink, and get ready to dive into the world of words. We'll have quiet reading time followed by lively conversations about our chosen books. It's a great way to meet fellow book lovers and discover new stories.

So mark your calendar and make some time for yourself at the Charhause Slightly Silent Book Club. We can't wait to see you there!

The HSO presents its annual “Celebrate America!” concert, led by the esteemed Hartford Symphony Orchestra music director Carolyn Kuan. Joining the orchestra for this special occasion is American singer-songwriter Livingston Taylor. The night wouldn’t be complete without an exhilarating display of fireworks!

At Silent Book Club, there's no assigned reading. All readers are welcome it's BYOBook (or browse the Barney Library shelves!). Settle in for an hour of silent, sustained reading. At the end of the hour, attendees can socialize—or not! 

Valuable Discoveries Found In Unexpected Places - get yours appraised for free!

We've all made some unexpected discoveries before. Maybe you found a $20 bill in an old coat pocket or stumbled upon a surprise family heirloom while cleaning your basement.

Discoveries range from weird to invaluable and everything in-between. Hopefully, this posting inspires you to keep your eyes open and indulge your curiosity. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find something of value as well.

Bring your “discoveries” to ANTIQ’S - the only antique shop in Farmington, CT - where “every” Saturday is FREE antique appraisal day.

ANTIQ'S Voted the BEST antique shop in Farmington for 30+ years!

Just 3.3 miles off of I-84, Farmington, CT. Accepting all major credit cards and cash.

AND OF COURSE ~ BROWSERS WELCOME AND BUYERS ADORED

ANTIQ’S LLC – FARMINGTON, CT - Estd. 1990

Located on Hyde Rd., Farmington, CT at the corner of New Britain Avenue

Open every weekend Sat/Sun 11:00 am to 4:00 pm

#antiques #antiqueappraisal #appraisalofantiques #freeappraisal #freeantiqueappraisal #appraisalday #farmingtonct #farmingtonantiques #antiquesinfarmington #ctbucketlist #antiquetreasures #ct #connecticut #nyc #farmingtonct #farmingtonantiques #missporters #music #ctindooractivities #newhaven #newengland #ctantiques #art #cttravel #artist #cttourism

Hartford Bonanza 2025 is our capital city's 5th annual FREE Independence Day Weekend celebration featuring music, art, food trucks, a civic marketplace, and fireworks! Produced by First Night Hartford, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, in collaboration with creative and community partners, this all-ages tradition is a large-scale celebration of our city's interconnected arts, culture, and business ecosystems through a full day of musical performances, interactive artistic experiences, and programming designed for people to engage with one another though diverse civic engagement opportunities and a day for community joy. (Rain date: Sunday, July 6, 2025.)

Join us for Outdoor Yoga Every Sunday During the Summer

Mending the Sacred Hoop Monthly Drum Circle

A Shamanic Drum Circle for all levels

Co-led by Ryan Drodz from Sounds Like Rad & Marie Goodine (Red Hawk Medicine Woman) from Rising Wings Counseling & Wellness Services

Every first Sunday from 1-2:30pm starting May 4, 2025 (no circle in April).

Through the rhythm of our sacred drums we will restore the heartbeat of the sacred Mother Earth by invoking the wisdom and medicine of our collective ancestors. We will also focus on connecting to the healing energy within ourselves to share with our community.

What to bring: Drum or rattle (some will be provided).

Fee: $10 suggested donation. Donations of any amount are appreciated!

RSVP preferred but walk ins welcome RSVP: 203-909-6871 or email: risingmywings@gmail.com

Do you have a 2nd-8th grade daughter, granddaughter or niece?  

Miss Porter's School is excited to launch Daisy Days, our new day camp for girls entering grades 3-5, from June 23 - August 1, 2025. Designed to be full of joy and discovery, this day camp helps girls find their confidence to be their unique, authentic selves while having a ton of summer fun. Join us as we explore music and dance during Swiftie Summer, expand our imaginations during Enchanted Explorers, or be our authentic selves during Bee Brilliant! Campers will spend their days participating in engaging activities, meeting special guests, building their confidence, learning new skills and on Wednesdays, campers will venture off campus for exciting and enriching field trips. We offer extended care in the morning and afternoons for families requiring additional flexibility and extended fun! Learn more here and sign up to receive the opportunity to register early. Registration opens for the general public at 6am on January 15, 2025.

Early bird registration is officially open for Summer in Farmington 2025, our residential camp for middle school girls entering grades 6 through 9 in the fall of 2025. We are so excited to bring back some of our campers’ favorite sessions and activities in addition to the new program offerings that we know our campers are sure to love! Campers can choose to work intensively on their leadership skills through the Sarah Porter Leadership Institute, work towards making positive change in their communities through the ChangeMaker’s Institute, or gain specialized content knowledge and skills through one of our three Institutes run in partnership with Miss Porter’s School academic departments. In addition to their core experience, campers will participate in other exciting and fun activities during afternoons and evenings. Dates, prices, and details can be found here. Spaces fill up quickly so don't wait!

With two different camps and a variety of exciting program options, summer at Porter’s will offer an enriching, defining experience for any girl entering grades 3 through 9 in the fall of 2025!

Spiritual Support Group

Get grounded, feed your soul, and express yourself in a safe & supportive environment

With Ryan Drodz, Reiki Master & Sound Healer

Second and Fourth Tuesdays of each month starting May 27th from 7pm-8:30pm 

If you are seeking support on your spiritual path, craving authentic connection, and need a space to speak your truth, look no further! Ryan will open each group with a brief sound meditation to help participants get grounded, then share his own spiritual experiences, struggles, and self-expression practices. This group is held in an open forum style. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences, challenges, and joys with no pressure to do so. Sharing within the group is optional.

Ryan wishes to serve others walking a spiritual path after hearing similar struggles from others on their journey. Please read through the group rules before attending. These rules must be honored to provide safety, common ground, and respect for other participants.  

Is this group right for you? Read the below and if you agree to the below then this may be the right group for you:

1. Spiritual Support Groups are confidential–what is shared in the group stays within the group. Do not share names, stories, and details about attendees outside of a group that could be used to identify them. This is a safe space that encourages vulnerability, authentic expression, and spiritual growth.

2. The group is held in an open forum style. If you would like to speak, limit responses to 3-5 minutes to allow everyone a chance to speak. Refrain from crosstalk and talking over others. Discrimination and rudeness will not be tolerated in this group.

3. Offering genuine support and encouragement is highly recommended! Keep in mind that each person's spiritual journey is unique. I encourage you to share your journey and refraining from offering unsolicited advice to others. We do not “should” on others within the group because this is disempowering. For example, “You should do this, say this, try this” is not allowed.

What participants should bring: An open heart, mind, and the courage to express what may be dimming your inner light. 

Event Fee: $20 suggested donation.

PLEASE RSVP:  https://soundslikerad.setmore.com/book

For Questions: radliving13@gmail.com

Bio: Ryan has struggled with depression and undiagnosed chronic pain for years which led him to do much inner work. During this journey, he learned to identify ego vs soul and to trust his heart’s intuition over thoughts created by the mind. Ryan is a Reiki Master, Sound Healer, RYT-200, and eternal student.

Website: soundslikerad.com

The Lewis Walpole Library's latest exhibition has been curated by Alison FitzGerald, Associate Professor in the Department of History, Maynooth University, Ireland. Open Wednesdays 2-4:30 pm and other times by appointment. On view March 5 through August 22, 2025.

This exhibition explores the range of spectacular shows that were offered to the fee-paying public in Georgian London, from exhibitions of paintings, to scientific demonstrations, to the display of wondrous animals. The exhibition primarily focuses on images drawn from the extensive collections at the Lewis Walpole Library that announce, depict and satirize what people paid to gaze at. It will consider how derogatory ideas about spectacle were expressed in caricatures and political discourse.

Details at https://walpole.library.yale.edu/programs/exhibitions#Current%20exhibit

Do you have a 2nd-8th grade daughter, granddaughter or niece?  

Miss Porter's School is excited to launch Daisy Days, our new day camp for girls entering grades 3-5, from June 23 - August 1, 2025. Designed to be full of joy and discovery, this day camp helps girls find their confidence to be their unique, authentic selves while having a ton of summer fun. Join us as we explore music and dance during Swiftie Summer, expand our imaginations during Enchanted Explorers, or be our authentic selves during Bee Brilliant! Campers will spend their days participating in engaging activities, meeting special guests, building their confidence, learning new skills and on Wednesdays, campers will venture off campus for exciting and enriching field trips. We offer extended care in the morning and afternoons for families requiring additional flexibility and extended fun! Learn more here and sign up to receive the opportunity to register early. Registration opens for the general public at 6am on January 15, 2025.

Early bird registration is officially open for Summer in Farmington 2025, our residential camp for middle school girls entering grades 6 through 9 in the fall of 2025. We are so excited to bring back some of our campers’ favorite sessions and activities in addition to the new program offerings that we know our campers are sure to love! Campers can choose to work intensively on their leadership skills through the Sarah Porter Leadership Institute, work towards making positive change in their communities through the ChangeMaker’s Institute, or gain specialized content knowledge and skills through one of our three Institutes run in partnership with Miss Porter’s School academic departments. In addition to their core experience, campers will participate in other exciting and fun activities during afternoons and evenings. Dates, prices, and details can be found here. Spaces fill up quickly so don't wait!

With two different camps and a variety of exciting program options, summer at Porter’s will offer an enriching, defining experience for any girl entering grades 3 through 9 in the fall of 2025!

Monthly Moon Circle

Reflect, recharge & tap into the divine feminine energy of the moon

Presented by Kristen Naes, Owner of Lumina Wellness Collective

Monthly on Fridays before or after the full moon (no circle in Aug or Sept). 

Join us for our monthly Moon Circle, a sacred gathering where we come together to reflect, recharge, and tap into the divine feminine energy of the moon. In this intimate, candlelit circle, you’ll find a nurturing space for deep connection, meaningful reflection, energetic release and intention setting for the upcoming moon cycle.

Group activities include:

• Opening invocation
• Discussion with partners/in group (joys and challenges over last moon cycle)
• Learning about the current moon cycle/what it means for you
• Energy center (chakra) balancing with gentle movement
• Guided meditation and visualization practice
• Oracle card reading
• Releasing, manifesting, and parts work
• Closing gratitude and prayer/meditation

I look forward to spending time with you! 

What is included: A take-home handout with insights about the current moon cycle

Monthly Investment: $20

RSVP A MUST! https://paperbell.me/luminahealingartsct

Bio: 

Kristen Naes, LMSW, is a Reiki practitioner, spiritual wellness coach, evidential psychic-medium, and the founder of Lumina Healing Arts. Combining her clinical social work background with intuitive abilities, she provides trauma-informed Reiki energy healing, intuitive readings, and spiritual wellness support through both individual sessions and group offerings. Kristen is passionate about supporting women and the LGBTQIA+ community, channeling the nurturing energy of the Divine Mother to help clients feel deeply cared for, empowered, and aligned with their authentic selves.

More info about Kristen/Lumina Healing Arts: www.luminahealingarts.com

Bridging the gulf between rock n’ roll and classical music, the Hartford Symphony Orchestra performs The Music of Queen at the Simsbury Performing Arts Center on Friday, July 11, 2025 at 7:30 PM. Brent Havens takes the podium to present Windborne’s The Music of Queen, a program scored to extend the listening experience of Queen’s exceptional tunes. Performed by the HSO and amplified with a full rock band and vocals, this show captures Queen’s distinct sound while presenting some familiar and lots of new musical colors.

Unleash your inner scientist! Discover the fascinating world of bees and contribute to real research. Join our Citizen Science Bee Count and capture photos of bees in your neighborhood. Snap a pic, save a bee!

While Samuel Clemens, a.k.a. Mark Twain, is laid to rest in Elmira, New York, many of his Hartford companions and cohorts are interred at Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Learn about Twain's life and his many Nook Farm friends, neighbors, and colleagues during this tour led by Steve Courtney.

Admission to the program is $10.00 and free for Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation and Mark Twain House & Museum members. Advance reservations are recommended and may be made online at www.cedarhillfoundation.org.

Cedar Hill Cemetery is located at 453 Fairfield Avenue, Hartford. The walking tour begins at the flagpole at the end of the entrance drive.

Valuable Discoveries Found In Unexpected Places - get yours appraised for free!

We've all made some unexpected discoveries before. Maybe you found a $20 bill in an old coat pocket or stumbled upon a surprise family heirloom while cleaning your basement.

Discoveries range from weird to invaluable and everything in-between. Hopefully, this posting inspires you to keep your eyes open and indulge your curiosity. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find something of value as well.

Bring your “discoveries” to ANTIQ’S - the only antique shop in Farmington, CT - where “every” Saturday is FREE antique appraisal day.

ANTIQ'S Voted the BEST antique shop in Farmington for 30+ years!

Just 3.3 miles off of I-84, Farmington, CT. Accepting all major credit cards and cash.

AND OF COURSE ~ BROWSERS WELCOME AND BUYERS ADORED

ANTIQ’S LLC – FARMINGTON, CT - Estd. 1990

Located on Hyde Rd., Farmington, CT at the corner of New Britain Avenue

Open every weekend Sat/Sun 11:00 am to 4:00 pm

#antiques #antiqueappraisal #appraisalofantiques #freeappraisal #freeantiqueappraisal #appraisalday #farmingtonct #farmingtonantiques #antiquesinfarmington #ctbucketlist #antiquetreasures #ct #connecticut #nyc #farmingtonct #farmingtonantiques #missporters #music #ctindooractivities #newhaven #newengland #ctantiques #art #cttravel #artist #cttourism

Join us for Outdoor Yoga Every Sunday During the Summer

Do you have a 2nd-8th grade daughter, granddaughter or niece?  

Miss Porter's School is excited to launch Daisy Days, our new day camp for girls entering grades 3-5, from June 23 - August 1, 2025. Designed to be full of joy and discovery, this day camp helps girls find their confidence to be their unique, authentic selves while having a ton of summer fun. Join us as we explore music and dance during Swiftie Summer, expand our imaginations during Enchanted Explorers, or be our authentic selves during Bee Brilliant! Campers will spend their days participating in engaging activities, meeting special guests, building their confidence, learning new skills and on Wednesdays, campers will venture off campus for exciting and enriching field trips. We offer extended care in the morning and afternoons for families requiring additional flexibility and extended fun! Learn more here and sign up to receive the opportunity to register early. Registration opens for the general public at 6am on January 15, 2025.

Early bird registration is officially open for Summer in Farmington 2025, our residential camp for middle school girls entering grades 6 through 9 in the fall of 2025. We are so excited to bring back some of our campers’ favorite sessions and activities in addition to the new program offerings that we know our campers are sure to love! Campers can choose to work intensively on their leadership skills through the Sarah Porter Leadership Institute, work towards making positive change in their communities through the ChangeMaker’s Institute, or gain specialized content knowledge and skills through one of our three Institutes run in partnership with Miss Porter’s School academic departments. In addition to their core experience, campers will participate in other exciting and fun activities during afternoons and evenings. Dates, prices, and details can be found here. Spaces fill up quickly so don't wait!

With two different camps and a variety of exciting program options, summer at Porter’s will offer an enriching, defining experience for any girl entering grades 3 through 9 in the fall of 2025!

Do you have a 2nd-8th grade daughter, granddaughter or niece?  

Miss Porter's School is excited to launch Daisy Days, our new day camp for girls entering grades 3-5, from June 23 - August 1, 2025. Designed to be full of joy and discovery, this day camp helps girls find their confidence to be their unique, authentic selves while having a ton of summer fun. Join us as we explore music and dance during Swiftie Summer, expand our imaginations during Enchanted Explorers, or be our authentic selves during Bee Brilliant! Campers will spend their days participating in engaging activities, meeting special guests, building their confidence, learning new skills and on Wednesdays, campers will venture off campus for exciting and enriching field trips. We offer extended care in the morning and afternoons for families requiring additional flexibility and extended fun! Learn more here and sign up to receive the opportunity to register early. Registration opens for the general public at 6am on January 15, 2025.

Early bird registration is officially open for Summer in Farmington 2025, our residential camp for middle school girls entering grades 6 through 9 in the fall of 2025. We are so excited to bring back some of our campers’ favorite sessions and activities in addition to the new program offerings that we know our campers are sure to love! Campers can choose to work intensively on their leadership skills through the Sarah Porter Leadership Institute, work towards making positive change in their communities through the ChangeMaker’s Institute, or gain specialized content knowledge and skills through one of our three Institutes run in partnership with Miss Porter’s School academic departments. In addition to their core experience, campers will participate in other exciting and fun activities during afternoons and evenings. Dates, prices, and details can be found here. Spaces fill up quickly so don't wait!

With two different camps and a variety of exciting program options, summer at Porter’s will offer an enriching, defining experience for any girl entering grades 3 through 9 in the fall of 2025!