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Events

These are the upcoming area events with a community, family or entertainment theme. These include visual arts and performances, cultural and sporting events, fairs and festivals, tours and more.

 Community Events  |   Business Events


December 2024

Meriden Warming Center

Monday, December 2, 2024 through Thursday, May 1, 2025

Description: The Meriden Warming Center will start operations on Monday, Dec. 2nd 2024 and run until May 1, 2025. The warming center will be operated by New Opportunities. The warming center will close each morning at 7 AM, except during severe cold weather activations from the Governor. The warming center will be able to accommodate 30 individuals (male and female) nightly on a first come first serve basis. A light dinner and breakfast will be provided.

Location Info: 169 Colony St., Meriden, CT

February 2025

WBDC: Business Concept Clinic

Tuesday, February 4, 2025 through Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 12:00 PM–2:00 PM
At Your Computer

Description: Transform your business idea into a concrete, actionable plan. In this 7-session virtual course, you'll gain a clear understanding of essential business-building fundamentals. Led by industry experts, BCC offers a dynamic peer-to-peer learning environment, supported by online tools and decision-making worksheets to help guide you every step of the way.By the end, you'll have a solid blueprint to move your business forward with confidence.Applications will be open through Monday, January 27. Classes are on Tuesdays and Thursdays - Feb. 4th, 6th, 11th, 13th, 18th, 20th, 25th, and 27th, 2025.

Contact Info: Registration is required. There is $149 fee when you accepted into the program. Click here for program application.

CTSBDC - Managing Money in Your Business: Financial Essentials

Wednesday, February 5, 2025 through Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at 6:00 PM–7:30 PM
At Your Computer

Description: The CT Small Business Development Center is offering this 4 session interactive course designed to empower small business owners with practical financial insights and tools. Learn key financial concepts and terms, track cash flow, report finances, and understand the importance of business credit. Speakers are Amanda Tronchin, Program Lead, and Virginia T. Spell, Urban League of Southern CT Acting CEO.

Contact Info: Click here to register.

WBDC:A Guide to Plan for Success

Thursday, February 6, 2025 through Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 5:00 PM–7:00 PM
At Your Computer

Description: WBDC's most comprehensive training program, GPS: A Guide to Plan for Success, is designed for individuals seeking expert guidance while building a business plan. This 9-session course takes you from concept to growth, providing the tools, support, and motivation needed to develop a detailed and effective plan for your business. Led by experienced instructors, you'll receive invaluable resources to help you start, manage, and scale your business.Applications will be accepted through Thursday, January 23.This unique and interactive 9-session program is designed for aspiring and emerging entrepreneurs who possess a written business concept and are ready to take the first step in the business planning process. Classes are on Wednesdays - Feb. 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th, March 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th, and April 1st, 2025.

Contact Info: Registration is required. There is $299 fee when you accepted into the program. Click here for program application.

WBDC: QuickBooks Online - 3 Part Series

Friday, February 14, 2025 through Friday, February 28, 2025 at 12:00 PM–1:30 PM
At Your Computer

Description: Join Sherry Konwerski, WBDC Business Advisor and Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor, for a 3-part hands-on course to learn how to manage your business finances with QuickBooks. In this series, you'll learn a broad range of bookkeeping functions, from setting up QuickBooks, to handling money in/money out, banking, payroll, and much more. If you've decided to use Quickbooks Online to manage your business finances but need help getting started, this class is for you!This series is designed for business owners with 1+ years of sales. You must have a QuickBooks Online account to attend this class. A trial account is sufficient. Classes are on Feb. 14th, 21st, & 28th, 2025.

Contact Info: Registration is required. There is a $30 fee for this webinar. Click here to register.

WBDC: How to Calculate Projections

Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at 4:00 PM–5:00 PM
At Your Computer

Description: Projections are a very important part for applying for any type of funding. Funders need to feel that the borrower understands their business thoroughly and their ability to grow it with the funds they are providing. Projections need to be done properly to accurately create that picture for the Funder. Improper projections can show a lack of business stability, profits and overall growth.If you are applying for the Ignite Grant - join WBDC's business advisors to get support.

Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.

WBDC: Ignite Grant Information Sessions

Thursday, February 20, 2025 at 5:30 PM–6:30 PM
At Your Computer

Description: Join us for a one-hour information session to learn about the Women's Business Development Council's Ignite Grant. This grant offers up to $10,000 for women-owned businesses in Connecticut that have been operating for 2+ years. Sessions will cover eligibility, grant uses, application details, and timeline. The application period is open from February 3 to March 10.Sessions will be held weekly and you only need to attend one. WBDC Business Advisors will be available for additional questions.Note: childcare businesses are not eligible for this grant but can explore other funding options through WBDC's Child Care Business Opportunity Fund programs.

Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.

WBDC: Ignite Grant Information Sessions

Monday, February 24, 2025 through Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 12:00 PM–1:00 PM
At Your Computer

Description: Join us for a one-hour information session to learn about the Women's Business Development Council's Ignite Grant. This grant offers up to $10,000 for women-owned businesses in Connecticut that have been operating for 2+ years. Sessions will cover eligibility, grant uses, application details, and timeline. The application period is open from February 3 to March 10.Sessions will be held weekly and you only need to attend one. WBDC Business Advisors will be available for additional questions.Note: childcare businesses are not eligible for this grant but can explore other funding options through WBDC's Child Care Business Opportunity Fund programs.

Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here for program application.

CTSBDC - SBIR/STTR Accelerator

Tuesday, February 25, 2025 through Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 12:00 PM–1:30 PM
At Your Computer

Description: Seeking SBIR/STTR funding to advance your innovation? Join CT Small Business Development Center's SBIT/STTR Accelerator and receive expert guidance on the requirements and key considerations for a successful SBIR or STTR application. In this free 6-week (every Tuesday) virtual accelerator, you will learn: What Federal Agencies seek in the SBIR/STTR program; How to navigate the complexities of the application process; How to conduct research, test your business concept, and identify key risk factors and best practices; How to define your technological innovation while aligning with Federal Agency objectives; and The essentials of commercialization and how to bring your innovation to market. Eligibility: a for-profit small business (<500 employees) located in CT; Majority owned by a US citizen or permanent resident; or Minority-owned businesses are encouraged to apply. Presenters are: Christine Sullivan, Business Advisor & SBIR/STTR Specialist CTSBDC, Greg Lewis, Business Advisor & SBIR/STTR Specialist CTSBDC, and Jerry Hollister, SBIR/STTR Specialist BBC Entrepreneurial Training & Counsulting.

Contact Info: Please apply by Feb. 11th. Click here to register.

WBDC: How to Calculate Projections

Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at 11:00 AM–12:00 PM
At Your Computer

Description: Projections are a very important part for applying for any type of funding. Funders need to feel that the borrower understands their business thoroughly and their ability to grow it with the funds they are providing. Projections need to be done properly to accurately create that picture for the Funder. Improper projections can show a lack of business stability, profits and overall growth.If you are applying for the Ignite Grant - join WBDC's business advisors to get support.

Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.

Sanctuaries of Diversity

RSVP Now Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 6:30 PM–7:30 PM
At Meriden Historical Society & Museum Cener

Description: Listen as Martha Coloresi shares her research on houses of worship through out the history of Meriden and how religion has played an important part in the development of our community, showcasing how its houses of worship reflect the community's historical evolution and cultural diversity. From the city's earliest congregations to its modern places of faith, the presentation highlights the architectural beauty, spiritual traditions, and social impact of these sacred spaced. Attendees will learn about the founding of Meriden's churches, synagogues, and other religious institutions, the immigrant communities that shaped them, and the role these spaces played in Meriden.

Location Info: 41 West Main St., Meriden, CT 06451

Contact Info: Click here to register.

Literary Libations - Sipping for a Cause

RSVP Now Friday, February 28, 2025 at 6:00 PM–9:00 PM
At Meriden Public Library

Description: Join us for Literary Libations - Sipping for a Cause. Enjoy wine, craft beer, and spirits tasting along with refreshments, music and raffles. Only $25 per person. More information to come. Sponsored by The Friends of the Meriden Public Library and the Grop Shop. All proceeds will go to support programming at the Meriden Public Library.

Location Info: 105 Miller St., Meriden, CT

Contact Info: Tickets will be on sale starting December 2, 2024 in the Friends Bookstore at the Meriden Public Library. Monetary donations or baskets to raffle will be accepted now. Checks are to be made out to "Friends of the Meriden Public Library". In the Note section please indicate "Literary Libations". Send checks to The Friends of the Meriden Public Library, 105 Miller St., Meriden, CT 06450. Donations can also be made via your credit card by clicking here and clinking on the MPL Literary Libations fundraiser donate button. For basket raffle donations or more information, please contact Marian Amodeo at 860-324-9777 or via e-mail.

Castle Craig Players- Almost Heavens Songs of John Denver

Friday, February 28, 2025 through Sunday, March 16, 2025

Description: Seats are selling fast! Get yours today! Presented cabaret style with table seating! Patrons are inivted to BYO food and beverages!

The winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, told by Duncan Sheik and Steven Slater through what Entertainment Weekly called, "the most gorgeous Broadway score this decade," Spring Awakening explores the journey from adolescence to adulthood with a poignancy and passion that is illuminating and unforgettable. The landmark musical is an electrifying fusion of morality, sexuality and rock and roll that is exhilarating audiences across the nation like no other musical in years!

Location Info: 59 West Main Street

Contact Info: Click here for ticket information.

March 2025

WBDC: Ignite Grant Information Sessions

Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at 5:00 PM–6:00 PM
At Your Computer

Description: Join us for a one-hour information session to learn about the Women's Business Development Council's Ignite Grant. This grant offers up to $10,000 for women-owned businesses in Connecticut that have been operating for 2+ years. Sessions will cover eligibility, grant uses, application details, and timeline. The application period is open from February 3 to March 10.Sessions will be held weekly and you only need to attend one. WBDC Business Advisors will be available for additional questions.Note: childcare businesses are not eligible for this grant but can explore other funding options through WBDC's Child Care Business Opportunity Fund programs.

Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here for program application.

WBDC: How to Calculate Projections

Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 6:30 PM–7:30 PM
At Your Computer

Description: Projections are a very important part for applying for any type of funding. Funders need to feel that the borrower understands their business thoroughly and their ability to grow it with the funds they are providing. Projections need to be done properly to accurately create that picture for the Funder. Improper projections can show a lack of business stability, profits and overall growth.If you are applying for the Ignite Grant - join WBDC's business advisors to get support.

Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here for program application.

Fused Glass Classes with Lynn Keller Fisher

Thursday, March 20, 2025 through Thursday, April 3, 2025 at 6:00 PM–8:00 PM
At Gallery 53

Description: Discover the fire and multicolored beauty of Fused Glass Jewelry! When you look at this glass, it appears to have more than one color at the same time, especially when viewed under different lighting. The effects you achieve when you fire these glasses is in a special kiln will remind you of the rainbow patterns in a soap bubble or the colors of dragonfly wings!

In one of our most popular classes, Lynn Fisher, will show you how easy it is to make beautiful, one-of-a-kind fused glass jewelry creations that you can give as gifts . . . Or wear yourself! This is a 3 session class on Thursdays - 3-20, 2-27, & 4-3-25

Location Info: 53 Colony St, Meriden, CT 06451

Contact Info: Register early as space is limited and seats fill quickly, Cost is $90 for members and $100 for non-members + materials fee of $40 payable by either cash or check is also due the first night of class. NOTE: classes are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, you can receive a credit to apply to a future class. For more information or to register click here.

The Irish Experience

RSVP Now Thursday, March 27, 2025 at 6:30 PM–7:30 PM
At Meriden Historical Society

Description: Learn stories from Meriden's Irish past like the story of Michael Donlon (1876-1909) whose monument on 250 Gypsy Lane. He was born in Galway, Ireland, but by 1909 he was living with his uncle on Pratt Street in Meriden, Connecticut. He had been working as a porter at the Meriden railroad station for about three years at the beginning of 1909. On January 2 of that year, he was moving one of the baggage trucks towards the north end of the station to meet the New York to Boston express train which was due to stop in Meriden at 2:12 pm. As the train was nearing the station, he noticed a woman and child on the tracks in the path of the oncoming locomotive. According to witnesses, he unhesitatingly rushed to their aid and pushed them out of harm's way before being struck by the train himself. Hear from Meriden residents of Irish descent as well.

Location Info: 41 West Main St., Meriden, CT

Contact Info: Please RSVP via e-mail or by calling 203-639-1913.

Open House for StateFarm - Ramah Barmo's New Location

Friday, March 28, 2025

Description: Save the Date for this Open House to celebrate the new location of Ramah Barmo's StateFarm Office. More information to come.

Location Info: 1309 Berlin Turnpike, Berlin, CT

April 2025

From Quills to Clicks: An Exhibit Exploring How News Has Shaped Meriden and Beyond

RSVP Now Friday, April 4, 2025 at 6:30 PM
At Meriden Historical Society

Description: Join the Meriden Historical Society for their opening night reception of their newest exhibit. Step back in time and experience the remarkable journey of how news has traveled—from handwritten newsletters and town criers in colonial Meriden to the instant digital updates of today. This exhibit explores the transformation of news delivery, showcasing the tools, technologies, and methods that have informed and connected communities throughout history.Visitors will learn about the role of early newspapers in Meriden, the rise of the telegraph, the impact of radio and television, and the revolution of the internet and social media. Discover how Meriden's role in these transitions mirrors the broader shifts in American communication and culture. Whether you're a history enthusiast, technology buff, or simply curious about how news has evolved, this exhibit offers a fascinating look at the past, present, and future of news.

Location Info: 41 W. Main St., Meriden, CT

Ice Dye Classes with Lynn Keller Fisher

Tuesday, April 22, 2025 through Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 6:30 PM–8:00 PM
At Gallery 53

Description: Fabric is your canvas; dye and ice are the tools you'll use to create impressionistic effects with Ice Dying! In this 2-session workshop, instructor Lynn Fisher will guide you through folding techniques and color selection to create unique items. See how easy it is to achieve the nuanced shading and unexpected effects that make ice dying popular!

Participants should bring fabric or items made of natural fiber such as cotton, rayon, bamboo, or linen. Cotton/spandex blends are ok as long as there is more than 50% cotton. Suitable items include clothing, tote bags, pillowcases and fabric. They don't have to be white… you can dye over lighter colors. If dying fabric, we've found 1.5 to 2 yards of material is a manageable amount. Everything should be washed ahead of time with no fabric softeners or dryer sheets. This will remove any chemicals that can interfere with the dye.

The instructor will have items washed and ready to dye, including various size t-shirts, infinity scarves, and hemmed 28" fabric squares, available for a small fee. NOTE: Participants should bring a face mask to wear as a precaution when working with the powdered dye.

Location Info: 53 Colony St, Meriden, CT 06451

Contact Info: Cost is $40 for members and $45 for non-members. For more information or to register click here.