Eastern CT News brings you source-linked local news from all 49 towns in New London, Windham and Tolland counties, plus major Connecticut stories. We aim to report fairly, without favoring a political party or viewpoint, and apply the same verification standards to every story. Explore Police & Fire, schools, business, sports, community events and election information — with free access and clear updates as stories develop.
Your browser asks permission. Coordinates are matched on your device; only your chosen town is remembered in this browser. Selecting a town saves it for the My town shortcut. Email alerts are a separate opt-in.
YOUR EASTERN CONNECTICUT WEEKEND
What’s happening this weekend?
Local festivals, activities and community events for Friday, October 16 through Sunday, October 18.
7 listed events · Times are Eastern. Check the organizer for tickets, registration, age limits and last-minute changes. Coverage is growing.
Friday, October 16
Windham · Free
Stronger with Age: Healthy Aging & Active Living
Free public wellness event for aging adults of all genders and fitness levels, hosted by Windham Recreation and CT Senior Women’s Basketball. The program includes presentations, a panel, movement, nutrition and community resources. RSVP is helpful but not required.
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM · Windham Community Center recreation gymnasium, 1 Jillson Square, Willimantic
The town lists a free, public farmstead event with animals, cider and applesauce making, pumpkin painting, blacksmithing, live music, historic-house tours and demonstrations. Donations are optional; check the official notice before traveling.
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM · Samuel Smith Farmstead, 82 Plants Dam Road, East Lyme
Preston · Admission not stated; confirm with organizer
Scarecrow Festival
The church announces a smaller replacement for its recently cancelled event, with craft vendors, children’s crafts, touch-a-truck, antique cars, silent auction, quilt drawing and food. Admission cost is not stated in the Facebook listing; check with the organizer before attending. Food, purchases and fundraising activities may carry separate charges.
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM · Preston City Congregational Church, 321 Route 164, Preston, CT 06365
11th Annual Bumpers & Books: A Literary Trunk-or-Treat
Free public literary trunk-or-treat with book-themed decorated vehicles, balloon artistry, crafts, face painting, temporary tattoos, snacks, lawn games and a free new book from the Book Patch. Children are encouraged to wear costumes. Organizer lists October 24 as the rain date; check the library for weather updates.
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM · Groton Public Library back parking lot, 52 Newtown Road, Groton, CT 06340
Bolton Recreation and Bentley Memorial Library host an evening of stories and s’mores. Storytelling starts at 5 p.m. The town lists free admission and asks participants to register so organizers can plan refreshments.
4:30 PM – 6:00 PM · Indian Notch Park, 60 Tolland Road, Bolton
Free admission to the farm’s autumn festival, with farm animals, live music, family activities, crafts and food vendors. The farm confirms the October 18 event, and the Tolland County Chamber lists 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Food and vendor purchases are separate; confirm updates with the farm.
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM · Strong Family Farm, 274 West Street, Vernon
Free public trunk-or-treat with a costume parade, contests and music. A separate neurodivergent-friendly period runs 1–1:30 p.m. Children under 12 must remain with an adult; bring a candy bag. Food vendors may charge separately. Vehicle registration closed October 12.
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM · Waterford High School circular parking lot, Waterford
