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Last Minute Shopping Ideas & More!"
Last Minute Shopping Ideas & More!"
Take a trip East of the River and one of the Cutest Towns in CT!
Mayra Dube
Dec 18, 2025
Welcome to Shops at Riverton, your gateway to a unique shopping experience right here in the heart of Riverton, CT! 🌟 Nestled in our charming community, we offer a delightful escape where you can explore independent, hand-crafted businesses. 🛍️✨ This isn't your average shopping mall; it's a treasure trove of locally crafted products that celebrate creativity and artisan skills. Each item you find here has a story to tell with passion and care poured into every detail. So, why wait? Come on over and experience the magic of discovering one-of-a-kind finds that are as unique as you are! 💫 Enjoy your visit and happy shopping! 🛒😊 |
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✨ 🌟 Custom Embroidery: unleash your creativity with personalized items! 🌟✨ Whether you're looking to customize your own apparel or select from our collection, we've got you covered!
🎨 Got an image in mind? Let us transform it into a stunning company logo or a unique gift for someone special. Perfect for showing your appreciation in the most personal way. ❤️ 🧥👕 Wondering what to do with those overgrown t-shirts or sweatshirts? Let's give them a new lease of life! How about a personalized pillow, quilt, or tote bag? 🧵🎁 💖 Make a Memory from a cherished sweatshirt. Our Products Include:
Don't forget, we also offer sewing lessons upon request for those eager to learn and explore! 🧵✂️ No order is too big or too small, and we aim to provide a fast turnaround whenever possible. 🎄🌟 Think of us for your holiday needs and bring some personalized warmth to your celebrations this year! 🎁✨
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Connecticut's Unusual Pickle Law 🥒 Did you know that in the state of Connecticut, it's illegal to call a pickle a "pickle" unless it bounces? 🤔 This quirky law traces its origins back to a 1948 incident. During this quirky episode, two men faced arrest for selling pickles that were deemed "unfit for human consumption." Reportedly, to determine a quality pickle, a state food commissioner declared that a proper pickle must bounce when dropped from one foot. This amusing rule ensures that every Connecticut pickle is not just edible, but also bouncy! So, if you ever find yourself in Connecticut, remember: bounce your pickles before you call them the real deal! 🎉
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Mondazzi Book, Bead & Crystal Store |
✨ Welcome to Mondazzi Book, Bead & Crystal, your ultimate Body, Mind & Spirit destination! 🚪🌈 Spanning an impressive 12,000 square feet, we are proud to serve customers all the way from CT, MA, and beyond! 🌍 💎 Discover amazing deals on a wide range of products including crystals, beads, books, jewelry, incense, tarot decks, candles, and much more! 🛍️📚 From the curious soul to the seasoned spiritualist, there's something for everyone here. 🌟 📅 Don't miss out on our exciting events that are sure to enlighten and inspire. Be sure to check our calendar regularly for what's happening next! ➡️ 🗓️ 🐶 And the best part? We're pet-friendly! Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the experience together. 🐾❤️ Whether you're seeking wisdom, enlightenment, or just a beautiful new addition to your collection, we warmly invite you to visit us at Mondazzi Book, Bead & Crystal for a truly unique journey. 💫
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This trip we explore East of the River. Starting our trip just off the Arrigoni Bridge in Middletown we are heading East on Route 66. Heading east I suggest if your starting this early you make a stop at Eggs Up Restaurant. Best Bacon Egg and Cheese sandwich I've ever had! This place closes at 1pm so plan accordingly. The Winchester Cafe is open after lunch hours. This is a great place to hang out on the weekends so make note of that place. Once your done filling up we keep heading East on Rt 66. At the intersection of 66 and 151 we are going to take a right onto 151. Very scenic here. Your traveling through Middle Haddam. I suggest you make a stop at the little post office and check out its charm. Its so cute and only 1 room. A little further down the road is the Library. I love books and going into different librarys especially old ones. This is truly unique, make a stop. Continuing on 151 South. You will see signs for Hurd State Park. There are some hiking trails down to the river. You might see a bald eagle in this area as they come down during this time of year and stay close to the river. If your up to it maybe take a quick walk around and see the pavilion? If not for you keep going on Route 151 South keep on the lookout for Route 609 on the right. Turn Right its also called Leesville Rd and head South. It will meet Route 149 take a right. Following Route 149 you will see the Salmon River Overlook on the right at some point. If its nice out make a stop and get some photos. Here you might have another chance to get a bald eagle photo. Then continuing down route 149 you will come to the Salmon River Boat launch. If the gate is not closed drive down there. It is a really nice scenic spot. If you have a long lens you might be able to get a photo of the draw bridge down river. You will end up in East Haddam. There you will find the Gelston House Restaurant, the Good Speed Opera House. Here you should make a stop and get some photos. At this point of the trip we are going to go over the bridge and make a stop once you go over the bridge on the right is a great little shop called Good Speed Station Country Store and Gift Shop. I love this store. You gotta make a stop. Then go across the street to the parking area. Here you will get some really great photos of the opera house and bridge. You will also be on the lookout for Eagles. This area is a very popular spot to get photos of them. Be patient they are there. Getting back on Route 82 there is another cute shop called Into the Woods Gift Shop. A really cool crystal store. Then we are going back on 82 heading south we are going around the rotary to jump onto Route 154 getting into Chester keep an eye out for Water St because your going to take a right onto Water St( Route 149) At that corner is Moravelas Pizzaria. Maybe get a snack here or wait until you get into town. CUTEST TOWN EVER!! Here you will find The Wayfinder Society Antiques & Collectibles, Simons Marketplace. Little House Brewing Co, and best of all The Wish Booth. The old style phone booth. You gotta make some time to hang around here. After that you can keep heading west on Route 148 and it meets Route 9 to head back home. OR Keep Exploring!! |
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📚 ✈️ Are you planning your next adventure across the United States? Make sure to bring along our unique Travel Word Search Book. As you flip through its pages, you'll embark on a journey through the USA like never before! With each turn, you'll discover interactive crosswords and engaging coloring pages that will guide you to iconic destinations and provide endless fun along the way! Highlights:
🗺️ Whether you're taking a road trip or flying coast to coast, let this book be your guide to the wonders of the USA. Every page is a new adventure, waiting for you to explore! 🌟 Makes a great gift!
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Have your Holiday list ready but no idea what to get? Check out this section every week for our latest Connecticut Crafters! Are you a Crafter that lives in Connecticut? Click this Link to send us your information so we can include you in our next issue. |
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Cooking and baking has been my passion since I was a little girl. Through years of practice and personal milestones like starting a family, my love for these culinary arts has only grown. With gatherings, birthdays, and holidays, my kitchen has become the heart of celebrations, filled with sweet memories and even sweeter treats. What started as a hobby full of love and tender care quickly evolved thanks to the endless requests from family and friends. Encouragement and practice turned my passion into a career path, leading me to become a licensed Cottage Food Operator in the beautiful state of Connecticut. 🍪 As a proud holder of a ServSafe certification, I assure you that every dessert I create is made under strict adherence to state regulations. All my delicious creations have been approved by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, bringing you peace of mind along with taste-bud-tantalizing treats! Every batch I make is small, hand-crafted, and tailored to your specific needs and preferences. I'm here to bring your sweetest dreams to life with custom cookies, cakes, and flavor profiles designed just for you. 🎂 I would be absolutely delighted to craft something special just for you, bringing joy to your gatherings with every bite! Call about Holiday Cookies!
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We are thrilled to cast our spotlight on the incredibly talented Rustic Iron Metalwork and the amazing artisan behind it, Rob Steinhilper. 🌟 Rob Steinhilper is no stranger to the world of metal art, but what makes his work truly distinctive is his choice of medium — recycled horseshoes! 🐴 His incredible ability to transform used horseshoes and other reclaimed metal parts into stunning works of art is nothing short of remarkable. Each piece he crafts tells a story and adds a touch of rustic charm and elegance to any space. Whether you're seeking a conversation-starting sculpture or a unique piece that breathes new life into your home decor, Rob Steinhilper's creations are a must-have. 🔧 Every artwork embodies not only the spirit of creativity but also a commitment to sustainability, giving materials a second chance to shine. Add a touch of artistic flair to your home with Rustic Iron Metalwork and discover the beauty of repurposed art. Because truly, everyone needs a piece of rustic ironwork to call their own! 🏡❤️
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12/1 - 12/31 Hubbard Park Lights - Meriden
The Good Speed Opera House White Christmas Show the musical through Dec 31st
Logees Holiday Light Extraveganza Every Fri/Sa/Sun in December
12/20 Durham Winter Market 10-1 Durham Community Center Picket Lane
Holiday Lights at Peoples Homes Tiffany Court - East Hampton - Supporting the food bank. 174 North Washington St - Plainville Blue Orchard Drive - Middletown Sand Hill Rd - Middletown Eastbury Pond - Glastonbury 8 Pratt Rd - Dayville
SANTA TRAINS New Haven Trolley Train Museum
Have an Event coming up? Click this link and send us the info ASAP. Our issues come out on Thursdays just in time for weekend planning! |
Sleigh & Wagon Rides 🎠
Tips for Your Ride 📝
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🎆 Major Drive-Through Events 🎆 Magic of Lights (East Hartford): Experience the magic of the holiday season with this spectacular mile-long drive-through display featuring digital animations and classic holiday scenes at Pratt & Whitney Stadium. Open through early January, this enchanting event promises a dazzling experience for everyone. Fantasy of Lights (New Haven): A long-standing favorite at Lighthouse Point Park, this incredible display boasts over 100,000 lights and supports a great cause, benefiting Goodwill of Southern New England. Hebron Lions Lights in Motion (Hebron): Prepare to be captivated by a stunning mile-long, digitally synchronized light show featuring over a million lights. It's running through the end of December and shouldn't be missed! Holiday Lights at Lake Compounce (Bristol): Don't miss your final chance in 2025 to enjoy this spectacular holiday display featuring half a million lights throughout the amusement park. Make it a memorable outing! ✨ Other Festive Options ✨Glow Hartford (Hartford): Delight in an indoor holiday light festival and market located at the Connecticut Convention Center, a perfect blend of illuminations and shopping. Connecticut Trolley Museum (East Windsor): Hop aboard for a unique "Tunnel of Lights" experience with train rides offering magical views of illuminated displays. Oakdale Theater (Wallingford): Known for its high-quality show, this drive-through light display is sure to impress visitors of all ages. 🔍 Tips for Visiting 🔍Book Tickets Online: To ensure a seamless experience, it's best to purchase your tickets in advance for popular events like Magic of Lights, which often require online reservations. Check Dates: Events are typically available from late November through early January, so mark your calendars and plan your visits for an unforgettable holiday experience! 🎄
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The article provides a list of holiday festivals and events happening in Connecticut in 2025. Some of the events include tree lightings, Christmas markets, holiday parades, and winter festivals. The list offers various activities for families and individuals to enjoy during the holiday season throughout the state. Read More... |
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As the week unfolds from December 18 through December 25, 2025, celestial movements promise exciting opportunities and challenges for each zodiac sign. 🌟
May the stars guide your week with wisdom and warmth! ✨
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