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In this episode of At Home in Connecticut, host Joey Burgoyne welcomes Arlene Marcionette, Director of Public Programs at the Mystic Seaport Museum, to discuss their expanded Lantern Light Village holiday celebration. Running across 15 dates in December with earlier 2:00 PM start times, the event blends daytime museum access with an illuminated evening wonderland featuring caroling, carriage rides, crafts, visits with St. Nick, and an interactive hot cocoa pop-up. Arlene also shares highlights from the 19-acre living history museum—from the LEGO-built Brickwrecks exhibit and the historic Charles W. Morgan whaleship to plans for their collection of over 650 watercraft—along with tips on the best value dates to visit.

In this episode of At Home in Connecticut, host Joey Bourgoin sits down with Kristen Gauvin, President of the non-profit organization Boxes to Boots. Kristen shares updates on their major annual event, Operation Cares, which takes place on November 14th at New Britain High School to pack care packages for overseas military personnel. The two discuss the essential protein items, snacks, and toiletries needed for donations, the option for listeners to sponsor individual boxes for $20, and the profound, heartwarming impact these packages have on lonely service members during the holiday season. Kristen also provides an important update on the shipping and post office tariff challenges they faced last year, highlighting their active work with Senator Blumenthal to introduce a pending bill that aims to simplify labeling requirements for military care packages moving forward.

Kristen Gauvin, President of Boxes to Boots talks about this year's event, Operation Cares 2026, will again be held at New Britain High School, 110 Mill Street New Britain CT, 06051. The event date is November 14, 2026 starting at 9:00 a.m, the event will run until 2:00 p.m.

Gov. Ned Lamont is closing in on the final few weeks of his re-election campaign, addressing issues involving cost-of-living, education, and party politics.

Woodstock Republican State Senator Jeff Gordon addresses cascading controversies within the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system.

Kris Dargenio, OO-Chair of the 2026 Plainville pumpkin festival talks with us this morning. We highlight the 11th Annual Plainville Pumpkin Festival! Taking place on Saturday, October 17th, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM in downtown Plainville, this beloved family-friendly community tradition features over 20 food vendors, live music from local band Audacity, bounce houses, and a trick-or-treat friendly atmosphere. Kids can enjoy a 4:00 PM magic show and a 5:00 PM costume parade, while brave visitors can venture through the free haunted house hosted by the Masonic Lodge. Don't miss the impressive 100+ carved pumpkin tower display or the Police Department's educational regional burn trailer demo at 6:30 PM. With free shuttle buses running continuously from Plainville High School, it’s an effortless and festive evening out that has raised over $95,000 for local community organizations and charities over the past decade. Visit plainvillepumpkinfest.org for full details!

Daniel Peszynski (Owner/President) of Paul and Sandy's Too. This years Pumpkintown USA is open and running through the end of October with new puzzles and the hayride has returned.

Connecticut Association of School Superintendents Executive Director Fran Rabinowicz offers superintendents' perspectives on issues facing the 2026-2027 school year.

So many fairs and so many good eats, The Big E returns and so does our friend Chaz, "The Creampuff Guy". But how do you eat a cream puff? But don't worry, if the Big E is not your cup of tEa. There are many other fairs in the state. Check our CTAGfairs.org but hurry time is running out.

A brand-new East Hartford tradition is about to take flight! Marot Connor Martin talks about this great event and other events in the future. In partnership with the Connecticut River Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Town of East Hartford presents its first annual kite festival at Rentschler Field! Featuring food trucks, music, performances, demonstrations, activities, drinks, and so much more!

Connecticut Treasurer Erick Russell gives an update on a number of initiatives from his Office, including the funding of pensions for state employees and teachers.

Gerri Griswold, White Memorial Conservation Center Director of Administration and Development talks with us about their upcoming events. Including the big event, White Memorial's 44th Annual Family Nature Day September 26th, 2026. All the information can be found at https://whitememorialcc.org under What's Happening.

Connecticut Education Association President Kate Dias gives an update in time for back-to-school for the 2026-2027 academic year.

This week we return from vacation. So things got t a little medieval Heidi talked this week with Suzanne Sacks known as Lady Pretensia Knobble from the CT Renaissance faire. Running now through October 25th 2026. Lebanon Country Fairgrounds  122 Mack Road  Lebanon, CT.

Dr. Amy Fogelstrom-Chai, the Republican running in Connecticut's First Congressional District, delivers an updat on her campaign, after Luke Bronin's primary upset over 14-term incumbent Congressman John Larson earlier this month.