October is here, which means it’s time for festive fun!
The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut invites you to explore our membership’s array of fall family activities! From indoor to outdoor, to hands-on, to on your plate, we’ve got an idea for every kind of explorer.
Looking for something with a set date? Check out these upcoming events:
Now – Oct. 31 – Scarecrows in the Village (Olde Mistick Village)
The Village shops are hosting a decorating contest and need YOU to vote! Come check out the storefronts and vote who you believe should win ‘Best in Crow’, ‘Most Representative’, and ‘Most Seaworthy’.
9 – 9th Annual Bumper & Books Trunk-Or-Treat (Groton Public Library)
A festive twist on a traditional trunk-or-treat event! Featuring balloon art, crafts, face painting, and temporary tattoos. Children are invited to dress as their favorite literary characters!
13 & 16 – Broom Crafting & Hat Crafting Workshops (Essex Steam Train & Riverboat)
Just in time before Halloween! Witches young and old can prepare their All Hallow’s Eve finest!
18 – Sensory-Friendly Evening ft. Halloween Art (Niantic Children’s Museum)
Families with kids on the autism spectrum are invited to participate in paper crafting, collage, painting, gluing and beads to make some fun fall projects.
18, 19, 24, 25, 26 – What Lurks Beneath (Mystic Seaport Museum)
Those who dare are encouraged to explore the mysteries of the ocean as they come out to play. Featuring fire-side chats and strolls through the eerie seaport village. Note: Thrill-seeker’s tour recommended for ages 12+.
19 – 20 – 3rd Annual Apple Festival (Olde Mistick Village)
Celebrating ALL things apple! Dine and shop across the plaza’s 50+ businesses and explore the participating merchants and visiting local vendors with on theme products.
20 – Just A Brunch of Hocus Pocus (Essex Steam Train & Riverboat)
All aboard! The Sanderson Sisters want to cast a spell with you to create some ghoulish fun!
Now – Nov. 3 – Wee Faerie Village, Playtime! and Mystical Murmurs (Florence Griswold Museum)
All ages are welcome to unleash their inner fairy! Note for those with little ones: Sundays feature crafting kits, face painting, and faerie hair!
If you’re more spontaneous or are looking to build out a weekend of exciting stops, then look no further. Other October happenings include:
Spooky Showings (Mystic Luxury Cinemas)
Enjoy nail-biting classics and new release horrors on the big screen! Like Rocky Horror, Beetle Juice, Smile, and Saw! Note: Please advise audience advisories vary.
Haunted TreeTrails Forest (TreeTrails Adventures)
Happening all month long! Prepare to hang on tight as you zip through spooky twists and turns!
Pumpkin Passage (The Dinosaur Place)
You can choose lights instead of frights! The Dino Place will host its trail featuring iconic prehistoric creatures, pumpkins, and pop-up special events every weekend in October!
Pick-Your-Own Apples, Pumpkins, & Donuts + Weekend Corn Maze (Holmberg Orchards)
For those seeking go-to fall activities all in one venue!
Seasonal sips and eats more up your alley? Consider these venues with great fall menus:
Sift Bake Shop
If you haven’t yet tried these viral pastries, you’re missing out! Browse the case of dozens of fresh, baked goods for your next ‘Tober treat.
Five Churches By the Bay
Magarita, cocktail, and bourbon fans beware-this restaurant has delicious drinks lined up for the month!
Beer’d Brewing Co.
OctoberStein is here! Travel on over to the taproom!
Buon Appetito
Hearty, warm meals are calling. Break up your brisk outdoor days with cozy cuisine!
And of course, we can’t forget that it’s peak vineyard season. For those in the older crowd, start your wine trail passport early by visiting:
Saltwater Farm Vineyard
Offerings available by the glass and bottle.
Stonington Vineyards
Offerings available in flights.
So, what are you waiting for? Make the most of this season and be sure to support local for your autumn adventures.
A list of all Chamber businesses by category can be found online. We encourage you to tag our members and share your experiences with us on social media using #ChamberECT, #MembershipTakesYouFurther, #FallFamilyFun, and #CTVisit!