Connecticut’s lineup this week is packed—live shows, quirky festivals, and a few classic New England experiences. You’ll spot famous musicians, wander through historic spots, or just snack your way across small towns. There’s plenty here to help you put together a week that’s busy, or easy, or somewhere in between.
Maybe you’re in the mood for a big concert, or you’d rather take it slow along the coast. Either way, this list pulls together cultural events, seasonal gatherings, and local favorites that really show off what Connecticut’s about in early November.
Explore top-rated stays with no booking fees and instant confirmation. Your dream trip starts here!
Start Exploring Now
1) Diana Ross concert at Foxwoods Resort Casino
Diana Ross hits the Premier Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard on November 1. The show kicks off at 7:00 p.m. It’s a rare opportunity to see a Motown legend up close—honestly, the theater’s modern setup means you’ll hear every note and probably spot every sequin.
Foxwoods makes it easy to turn the concert into a full night out. Grab dinner, try your luck at the casino, or just people-watch before heading in.
Ross is touring under the “Celebrating Timeless Classics” banner, so you’ll get a sweep of her career—Supremes hits, solo favorites, and maybe a surprise or two. The setlist, according to setlist.fm, leans into the songs that made her a star.
If you want in, grab tickets early from Foxwoods Resort Casino’s official site. Big names fill the place up fast, and weekend traffic out that way can be slow. Arriving ahead of time gives you a little breathing room.
2) Cypress Hill live at Westville Music Bowl, New Haven
Cypress Hill rolls into Westville Music Bowl in New Haven on Saturday, August 16. They’re bringing Atmosphere, Lupe Fiasco, and The Pharcyde for their Dank Daze of Summer Tour. Doors open at 5:00 PM, music starts at 6:30.
The open-air setup is pretty chill—great sightlines, easy walk from downtown. If you don’t want to drive home, Hotel Marcel is right nearby. Parking fills up, and lines can get long, so showing up early is smart.
Expect a set that jumps from old-school hits to deeper tracks. Setlist.fm shows they’re mixing it up. Nights can get cool, so bring a jacket. Double-check bag and camera rules before heading in.
3) Rob Thomas performance in Connecticut
Rob Thomas is playing Connecticut this week as part of his tour. The show’s listed among things to do this weekend in Connecticut, and you’ll see both diehard fans and folks just curious to hear a few Matchbox Twenty tunes.
He usually mixes solo stuff with the classics. The venue’s not huge, so you get decent views and can pick between seats or standing. If you want easy parking or to skip the lines, just get there a bit early.
Food and drinks are right there, though prices are…well, concert prices. Check the rules on bags and re-entry ahead of time so you’re not caught off guard.
If you’re into pop-rock and strong vocals, this fits right into your week—maybe a nice break before the holiday rush kicks in.
4) Jose Feliciano concert this week
José Feliciano—guitar legend, Grammy winner, and all-around icon—performs live in Connecticut this week. He’s got that unique blend of Latin, pop, and soul, and hearing it live is something special.
For tickets and details, check his official tour page or Ticketmaster. Some shows move fast, so if you want a good seat, don’t wait too long.
If you like more intimate venues, Bandsintown lists upcoming local dates. Connecticut’s theaters are cozy, with good acoustics—perfect for Feliciano’s style.
Crowds tend to be respectful and a bit mixed—longtime fans, curious newcomers. Downtown parking can be a pain, so add a little extra time. Whether you know every song or just want to see a pro at work, this show’s a solid bet for a mellow night out.
5) Middletown Food Truck Festival
If you’re hungry or just want to wander, check out the Middletown Food Truck Festival downtown by the Connecticut River. It runs noon to 8 p.m., with free entry and parking—super easy to drop in.
Food trucks cover everything from BBQ to seafood to veggie plates. The best part? You can try a little of everything without a big commitment.
There’s live music, stuff for kids, and a relaxed vibe. Crowds pick up later, so early birds get the best parking and shortest lines. Seating’s limited, so bringing your own chair isn’t a bad idea.
It’s a low-pressure way to taste what Connecticut’s food trucks are doing—all in one spot.
6) New Britain Food Truck Festival
The 2025 New Britain Food Truck Festival runs June 27–29 at Central Park, smack in downtown New Britain. Local and regional trucks serve up tacos, BBQ, desserts, and veggie-friendly eats.
You’ll spot vendors, carnival games, and bounce houses too. Hours: Friday 5–9 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.–7 p.m.—plenty of chances to swing by.
It’s outdoors, casual, with live music and spots to sit and eat. Parking gets tight, so plan ahead or use public lots.
If you want more, the CT Food Trucks calendar lists events all over the state. These festivals are a fun way to sample local favorites without a lot of travel.
7) Bishop’s Orchards Peach Festival
Spend your Saturday at the Bishop’s Orchards Peach Festival in Guilford, August 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s all about peak peach season—local food, live music, and plenty to do outdoors.
Food trucks like Get Stuffed, Bears BBQ, and Los Mariachis will be there, and the orchard’s cider truck pours local drinks. Families can check out the petting zoo, too.
If picking your own fruit sounds good, you can head out into the fields for peaches. The market inside sells more produce, baked goods, and other local treats.
Parking’s free, but midday gets crowded. Early arrival means better spots and shorter lines for food.
The setting—open fields, fruit trees—makes for a laid-back, rural afternoon. It’s a nice way to see the agricultural side of the shoreline.
8) Explore Mystic Seaport Museum
Plan a day at the Mystic Seaport Museum, the country’s biggest maritime museum. It’s right on the Mystic River, with a recreated 19th-century village, working shipyards, and costumed staff showing off old-timey skills.
You can climb aboard the 1841 whaleship Charles W. Morgan, check out exhibits on shipbuilding and navigation, and watch artisans build wooden boats the old-fashioned way.
Families seem to love the interactive stuff and the riverfront views. The museum’s layout is open, so you can wander as you like. It does get crowded on weekends—weekday mornings are quieter.
Downtown Mystic is nearby if you want to grab a meal or do a little shopping after. For more ideas, check this guide to fun things to do in Mystic, Connecticut.
9) Attend a rock and mineral show
If rocks, crystals, or handmade crafts catch your eye, hit up one of Connecticut’s rock and mineral shows this week. Collectors, jewelry makers, and families all mingle here. You’ll find tables stacked with minerals, fossils, and polished stones, plus vendors happy to explain what’s what.
The 53rd Annual Gem and Mineral Show in Meriden runs November 8–9 at Maloney High School. Local clubs do demos and displays, so both newbies and seasoned collectors find something interesting. Admission’s modest, and parking is free.
There’s also the Rock and Mineral Show at Whiting Mills in Winsted, which mixes geology with local art and hands-on activities for kids. The mood is easygoing, and you can chat with vendors about Connecticut’s mineral scene.
Some booths are cash-only, so bring a little extra. Comfortable shoes help—there’s a lot to see. Even if you’re just curious, these shows offer a surprisingly relaxing weekend option.
10) Broadway-level production of The Wiz
Catch a big touring production of The Wiz as it stops in Connecticut this week. It’s part of the 2025 North American Tour following a big run in 2023–2024. Alan Mingo Jr. and Mykal Kilgore lead the cast, and they really bring the story to life.
This version keeps the original’s spirit but updates the choreography and design—so it feels fresh, not stuck in the past. The creative team clearly wants to honor the show’s roots without making it a nostalgia trip.
If you love musicals, it’s a real treat to get Broadway-level energy without trekking to New York. The big sets and live orchestra make it feel like a real event. Tickets are on Ticketmaster and at the local box office.
Expect a lively crowd and a cast that knows how to put on a show. The mix of humor and heart makes it a fun night out.
Tips for Planning Your Connecticut Adventure
The weather’s unpredictable, drives are scenic, and every town seems to have its own thing going on. Pack with layers, leave a little wiggle room in your plans, and keep an eye out for local surprises. That’s half the fun, right?
Weather and Packing Essentials
Connecticut’s early November weather usually hovers between the mid‑40s and upper‑50s °F. Coastal spots stay a bit warmer, while inland towns get chilly as soon as the sun dips. You’ll notice crisp air, a chance of light rain, and those days that just feel too short.
Bring layered clothing—think a fleece jacket, long sleeves, and a waterproof shell. You’ll want comfortable shoes for poking around historic neighborhoods or wandering forest trails. An umbrella and some light gloves? Not a bad idea, since the weather can turn on you.
Planning to hike or go apple picking? Toss in moisture‑wicking socks and a small daypack. It’s easy to forget how fast the temperature drops after sunset, especially near Long Island Sound.
Here’s a quick packing checklist:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Waterproof jacket | Rain protection |
| Warm layers | Evening comfort |
| Comfortable shoes | Walking and sightseeing |
| Reusable water bottle | Hydration during drives |
Transportation and Getting Around
Connecticut’s pretty small, so getting around isn’t too complicated—unless you hit traffic or need to venture off the beaten path. Highways like I‑95 and I‑84 connect most cities, but coastal traffic can crawl on weekends.
Renting a car gives you the most freedom, especially if you want to check out smaller towns or nature spots. Trains run along the coast (New Haven to New London), and local buses handle most of the urban areas. You’ll find ride‑shares in bigger towns but good luck finding one in the countryside.
Parking in downtown Hartford or New Haven? You’ll need to pay, usually through a mobile app. Keep some quarters or a card handy for meters. If you’re up for a scenic drive, the Merritt Parkway has those classic bridges and gorgeous tree-lined stretches.
Need inspiration? Check out Connecticut bucket list attractions for a mix of coastal and inland highlights.
Seasonal Events and Local Insights
Early November brings fall festivals and Veterans Day ceremonies. Town greens fill with markets selling cider, crafts, and local produce. CTvisit’s November guide has up-to-date event listings and community celebrations.
Book your stay early if you’re eyeing weekend fairs or holiday events. Smaller inns and B&Bs in places like Litchfield Hills fill up fast during leaf-peeping season.
Locals will tell you: hit museums and trails on weekday mornings if you want some peace. Public libraries and visitor centers usually post calendars with free concerts or historical talks.
Curious about the quirky side of Connecticut? Atlas Obscura’s Connecticut list points you to hidden museums and offbeat landmarks.
Dining and Culinary Experiences
There’s a great mix here—coastal seafood, farm-fresh produce, and small-town bakeries. Many places focus on local ingredients from nearby farms and fisheries. Mystic and New Haven stand out for food—Mystic for its waterfront seafood, New Haven for that famous coal-fired pizza.
Here’s what you might find:
| Type | Example Dish | Typical Price Range | Best Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seafood | Lobster roll | $18–$30 | Shoreline towns |
| Pizza | New Haven-style | $12–$25 | New Haven |
| Farm-to-table | Seasonal tasting menu | $30–$60 | Litchfield Hills |
If you want a table at a popular spot, especially on weekends, it’s smart to reserve ahead. For more ideas, Visit Connecticut’s November highlights has plenty of suggestions.
Local breweries and vineyards often run tastings this time of year. Jeans and a sweater work almost anywhere, but maybe skip the sweatpants. Connecticut’s liquor laws can be quirky—some towns close up early—so check hours before heading out for a late drink.
Cultural Etiquette and Local Customs
People in Connecticut tend to value their privacy and appreciate punctuality. Showing up on time for tours, dinners, or performances signals you respect everyone’s schedule. Small talk happens, but it’s usually short and to the point—locals like a friendly hello, but not too much chitchat.
Tipping’s pretty much the usual U.S. deal—expect to leave 15–20% at restaurants, and maybe a buck or two per drink at bars. Drivers usually stop for pedestrians in crosswalks, and you’ll notice jaywalking isn’t really a thing in city centers.
At museums or historic sites, photography rules can change from place to place. It’s best to ask before snapping photos indoors. Smaller galleries and community events often encourage chatting with artists or organizers, though you’ll want to avoid interrupting anything in progress.
Folks care about public spaces here. Toss your trash where it belongs, keep things quiet in neighborhoods, and follow any park rules you see posted. Just a bit of courtesy goes a long way—and honestly, it makes your visit a lot more pleasant.
Find available hotels and vacation homes instantly. No fees, best rates guaranteed!
Check Availability Now
Fairfield County
Hartford County
Litchfield County
Middlesex County
New Haven County
New London County
Tolland County
