Hard to believe but it’s the last weekend before the big unofficial end-of-summer Labor Day holiday. Most kiddos are back to school and the mindset is off and running instead of laid back and enjoying.
But there are still 12 days left and the weather is supposed to be perfect this weekend. So take advantage of all the sweet summer opportunities out there.
That means fun like the annual Plainville Hot Air Balloon Festival beginning Friday evening and sponsored by the Plainville Fire Company. The event features dozens of hot air balloons that converge at the town’s Norton Park, and for three days launch and land, show off their “night glow” and provide those who come down to the park with demonstrations. There are fireworks on Friday night and all three days feature special events, entertainment, crafts and food. Admission is free.
The fair season ratchets up with the Terryville Country Fair also in full swing Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Sponsored by the Terryville Lions Club, the fair includes entertainment, food, livestock competition, exhibits and special events like he “Firemen Doing Farm Chores” and “Olde Time Lumberjack” shows. There will also be fireworks on Friday night. Information: terryvillefair.org
And if you want more, there are also fairs this weekend om Brooklyn (brooklynfair.org) and Chester (chesterfair.org) as well.
Take advantage of the summer perfect weather by heading down to Haddam’s Eagle Landing State Park where the RiverQuest has launched its seasonal rides. The cruise down the Connecticut River includes eagle nest and eagle spotting, discussion of local history along the river and views of historic places including the Goodspeed Opera House and the East Haddam Swing Bridge. Cruises are offered on Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Friday at 1:30 p.m. and Wednesday and Thursday at 11:30 a.m. Information: ctriverquest.com
Start the weekend a bit early by heading over to West Hartford’s Noah Webster House where there will be a beer tasting Thursday beginning at 7 p.m. The museum is located at 227 South Main St. Featured beers including those from Two Roads Brewery, Wachusett Brewing Co., Arch Amber Brewing, City Steam, and Thomas Hooker Brewing Company. Cost is $25. Information: 860-521-5362
Looking for something a bit more adventurous? Proud or ashamed of that tattoo. Middletown’s La Boca Mexican Restaurant and Cantina will host Joey Tattoo from the Spike TV television show “Tattoo Rescue” on Saturday. Joey will be in house hosting La Boca’s first ever Tattoo Peep Show, a tattoo contest. Winner of the Worst Tattoo category wins a $250 gift certificate to Joey Tattoo’s own shop, Belle Arte Tattoo in Fairfield, New Jersey. There will also be a $200 gift certificate awarded to the winner of the Best Tattoo competition. The restaurant is located at 337 Main St. Information: labocaonmain.com
Speaking of food, three Hartford restaurants, Hot Tomato’s, Salute, and Vito’s are stepping up to help the Bushnell Park Foundation maintain and restore the landmark “Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch.” On Sunday, each of the three eateries will donate 10 percent of their profits to the foundation. Good food for a good cause.
And finally, don’t forget, you still have a few days left to get a break by taking advantage of the state’s “tax free” week.