Events
This is our combined event calendar for the Business and Community events so you can best plan your activities in the central Connecticut community. We want you to know what a vibrant and active community looks like!
July 2024
Meriden Farmer's Market
Saturday, July 13, 2024 through Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 8:30 AM–12:00 PM
At Meriden Green
Description: Come and purchase fresh produce, view specialty food booths, and enjoy live music. Rain or Shine!
Location Info: Mill St., Meriden, CT
August 2024
WBDC Ignite Grant Information Session
Wednesday, August 14, 2024 through Wednesday, September 18, 2024
Description: Join us for a one-hour information session to learn about WBDC's Ignite Grant. The program offers grants of up to $10,000 to women-owned businesses in the state of Connecticut who have been in business for 2 or more years.
The information session will cover eligibility requirements, what the grant can be used for, the application process and timeline. We will share the application questions and the required supporting documentation.
There will also be time for questions at the end of the session.
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar.
Please click the link for a date and time to register.- Wednesday, August 14th from 12pm to 1pm - 8-14-24 Registration(/a>- Monday, August 19th from 11am to 12pm - 8-19-24 Registration - Thursday, August 29th from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm - 8-29-27 Registration- Wednesday, September 4th from 1pm to 2pm - 9-4-24 Registration.- Thursday, September 12th from 5pm to 6pm - 9-12-124 Registration- Wednesday, September 18th from 10am to 11 am - 9-18-24 Registration
WDBC: How to Calculate Projects
Wednesday, August 28, 2024 through Thursday, September 19, 2024
Description: Part of the Ignite application includes projections, which 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.
These sessions can provide additional support on preparing projections for your Ignite application.
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar.
Please click on the link for a particular date and time to register.- Wednesday, August 28th from 12pm to 1pm - 8-28-24 Registration.- Wednesday, Spetember 11th from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm - 9-11-24 Registration.- Thursday, September 19th from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm - 9-19-24 Registration.
September 2024
Beginning Chair Caning Workshop with Kathi Gorman - 4 Sessions
Thursday, September 5, 2024 through Thursday, September 26, 2024 at 6:00 PM–8:00 PM
At Gallery 53
Description: Ever wonder how a caned chair seat is made? Do you have one (or more) caned chair seats to replace? Then this is the class for you.
In this class, participants will hand-cane a wooden stool using natural strand cane in order to learn the chair caning process.
Classes will be held on September 5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th.
Location Info: 53 Colony St, Meriden, CT 06451
Contact Info: Cost is $60 for members and $65 for non-members with an additional $40 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first class. For more information or to register click here.
String Art Workshop with Ariana D-Avanzo - 3 sessions
Tuesday, September 10, 2024 through Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 6:00 PM–7:30 PM
At Gallery 53
Description: Unleash your creativity at our String Art Workshop, where you'll transform simple materials into intricate, colorful designs! Perfect for all skill levels, this workshop guides you through the basics of string art, from planning your pattern to hammering nails and weaving thread. Choose from a variety of templates or create your own unique design. Our experienced instructor, Ariana D'Avanzo will provide tips and techniques to help you bring your vision to life. By the end of the session, you'll leave with a stunning piece of string art to adorn your home or gift to a loved one. Discover the beauty of this versatile craft and enjoy a relaxing, artistic experience. Classes will be held on Tuesdays September 10th, 17th, and 24th.
Location Info: 53 Colony St, Meriden, CT 06451
Contact Info: Cost is $55 for members and $60 for non-members. For more information or to register click here.
Hand Built Pottery Class with Nancy Scilipote - 10 Sessions
Monday, September 16, 2024 through Monday, November 18, 2024 at 6:30 PM–8:30 PM
At Gallery 53
Description: Learn to create amazing ceramic items using just your hands, fingers, and simple tools! Potter Nancy Scilipote will teach you ancient hand building techniques such as coil building, slab building and pinch pots � and how to enhance your creations with surface textures and glazes. No experience needed. Classes will be held in Gallery 53's fully-equipped ground level pottery studio. If you've always wanted to try making pottery but have been intimidated by the wheel, this is a great way to dive in. Come and have fun, get your hands dirty, and discover why "clay's the way!" Classes will be held every Monday through September 16th-November 18th.
Location Info: 53 Colony St, Meriden, CT 06451
Contact Info: Cost is $175 for members and $185 for non-members which includes a materials fee. For more information or to register click here.
Girls Inc School Year Programs Begin
Monday, September 16, 2024 through Saturday, June 7, 2025
Description: School year programs are back. Click here to view the programs.
Location Info: 100 Lincoln St., Meriden, CT 06451
Contact Info: Click here to register.
Ice Dye Classes with Lynn Keller Fisher
Tuesday, September 17, 2024 through Thursday, September 19, 2024 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.
Location Info: 53 Colony St, Meriden, CT 06451
Contact Info: Cost if $40 for members and $45 for non-members. For more information or to register click here.
Hand Built Pottery with Nancy Scilipote - 10 Sessions
Tuesday, September 17, 2024 through Thursday, October 17, 2024 at 10:30 AM–12:30 PM
At Gallery 53
Description: Learn to create amazing ceramic items using just your hands, fingers, and simple tools! Potter Nancy Scilipote will teach you ancient hand building techniques such as coil building, slab building and pinch pots � and how to enhance your creations with surface textures and glazes. No experience needed. Classes will be held in Gallery 53's fully-equipped ground level pottery studio. If you've always wanted to try making pottery but have been intimidated by the wheel, this is a great way to dive in. Come and have fun, get your hands dirty, and discover why "clay's the way!" Classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Location Info: 53 Colony St, Meriden, CT 06451
Contact Info: Cost is $175 for members and $185 for non-members which includes materials fee. For more information or to register click here.
Paint with Paul Iezzi - 6 Weeks
Tuesday, September 17, 2024 through Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at 6:00 PM–8:00 PM
At Gallery 53
Description: Take your artwork to the next level in this 6-session class with noted local artist/instructor Paul Iezzi! Designed for beginner as well as advanced painters, students may work in acrylic, oil, pastel, or watercolor. The class will explore:
- color mixing- paint application - drawing- composition
Subject matter will include landscape, still life, and portraiture. Students are encouraged to express their creativity and personal vision. Painters should bring their personal materials. If you're a beginner, the instructor can suggest a materials list. Beginner and Advanced Levels.
Location Info: 53 Colony St, Meriden, CT 06451
Contact Info: Cos is $165 for members and $175 for non-members. For more information or to register click here.
WBDC Ignite Grant Information Session
Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 10:00 AM–11:00 AM
At Your Computer
Description: Join us for a one-hour information session to learn about WBDC's Ignite Grant. The program offers grants of up to $10,000 to women-owned businesses in the state of Connecticut who have been in business for 2 or more years.
The information session will cover eligibility requirements, what the grant can be used for, the application process and timeline. We will share the application questions and the required supporting documentation.
There will also be time for questions at the end of the session.
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here for more information or to register.
Chamber Membership & Ambassador Committee
RSVP Now
Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 9:00 AM
At Midstate Chamber of Commerce
Description: The purpose of the Membership Committee is to develop, support and enhance the Membership Efforts of the Greater Meriden Chamber of Commerce. The Membership Committee has established four written goals:
- To Support the Efforts of the Chamber Ambassadors
- To Review and Recommend Membership Benefits
- To Conduct and Evaluate Membership Surveys and
- To Review and Recommend Changes in Dues Structure.
The Membership Committee meets at 9:00 a.m. on the third Thursday of each month.
Location Info: 3 Colony St., Ste. 301, Meriden
Contact Info: RSVP to the Greater Meriden Chamber at 203-235-7901 or info@meridenchamber.com.
Young Professionals Meeting & Networking
RSVP Now
Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 4:30 PM–5:30 PM
At Midstate Chamber of Commerce
Description: Are you (age range 21-35) and looking for an OPPORTUNITY to meet fellow young adults interested in business and community while enjoying professional development segments AND giving back? Join us for this meeting!
Weigh in on branding of this group and how to reach more members and increase membership.
Location Info: 546 South Broad St., Suite 2C - Meriden
Contact Info: Call the Meriden Chamber at 203.235.7901 oremail us, or register online.
Magic Show & Buffet Dinner to benefit the Residents of the Bradley Home
Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 6:00 PM
At The Bradley Home
Description: Enjoy a fun magical night at The Bradley Home. Ticket price includes Buffet Dinner, 2 drinks, and a Magic Show. There will also be Raffle tickets available for purchase. Special performance by Dave Wyskiel! Tickets can be purchased at the Bradley Home.
Doors Open at 6:00pm. Buffet at 6:30pm Show Starts at 7:00pm
Location Info: 320 Colony St, Meriden, CT 06451
Contact Info: Call (203) 235-5716 or email lbates@thebradleyhome.com
WBDC: How to Calculate Projections
Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 6:30 PM–7:30 PM
At Your Computer
Description: Part of the Ignite application includes projections, which are a very important part for applying for any type of funding. Funders need to feel that the borrower understands their business thoroughly, as well as what it will take to grow the business with the funds they are applying to receive. Projections need to be done properly to accurately to create that picture for the funder. Improper projections can show a lack of business stability, profits and overall growth.These sessions can provide additional support on preparing projections for your Ignite application.
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.
"What Meriden Made, Made Meriden" Opening Reception
Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 6:30 PM
At Meriden Historical Society & Museum Center
Description: Join us for our first exhibit in the East Gallery. This opening reception introduces our newest gallery and its very first exhibit that delves into the transformative period of Meriden, Connecticut, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a time when the city became a hub of industry and business. Through a collection of artifacts, photographs, documents, and interactive displays, visitors will explore how Meriden's innovative spirit and industriousness shaped its development and left a lasting impact on the region.
This wine and cheese reception is open to the public.
Location Info: 41 West Main St., Meriden, CT 06451
Contact Info: The event is free. Registration is required. Click here to register. If you are a member and registered for the annual meeting you DO NOT have to register seperately for this event. Suggested donation is $10.
Raianna's 3rd Annual Memorial Poker Run
Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 9:00 AM
At Freedom Road Harley
Description: Donation $25.00 per bike/vehicle $10.00 passengerStart at:Freedom Road Harley, 557 West Main Street, Branford Stop 1: The Stand, 196 South Montowese Street, BranfordStop 2: Durham Dairy Serve, 13 Main Street, Durham Stop 3: Softail Café and Grill, 980 New Haven Avenue, Route 17, Durham Stop 4: All Saints Cemetery, 700 Middletown Avenue, North Haven Final Stop and after party at: Freedom Road Harley, 557 West Main Street, Branford Flowers will be available to place at Raianna's grave!All proceed to benefit TriCircle Music proided by IMPOSTER Raffles, food, and refreshments.Grand prize of 100.00 gift card to Freedom Road Harley for best hand. Sponsored by Trantolo and Trantolo
Location Info: 557 West Main Street, Branford
CBN-Alliance Networking Group
RSVP Now
Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 8:30 AM–9:30 AM
At Hamden Regional Chamber
Description: CBNAlliance OPEN Networking Group Meeting: Join Chamber Business Network Alliance which is an OPEN LEADS Group comprised of members from the Midstate Chamber and the Hamden Chamber. All industries welcome (and multiple individuals from the same industry are welcome). Network and make new connections!
Location Info: 2969 Whitney Ave., Hamden
Contact Info: Call the Midstate Chamber of Commerce at 203.235.7901 or info@midstatechamber.com.
Chamber Education/Technology Committee Meeting
RSVP Now
Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 8:30 AM
At Midstate Chamber of Commerce
Description: The Education/Technology Committee provides school-to-career opportunities for students of all ages, educators and businesses. It promotes business education and training partnerships in the greater Meriden area. The committee meets at 8:30 a.m. on the last Tuesday of the month. Open to ALL!
Location Info: 3 Colony St., Ste. 301, Meriden
Contact Info: RSVP to the Greater Meriden Chamber at 203-235-7901 or info@meridenchamber.com.
WBDC: Financial Foundations - Small Business Funding - "Meet the Lenders"
Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 12:00 PM–1:00 PM
At Your Computer
Description: Are you thinking a business loan might be in your future?Have questions about what lenders look for?Join us for a panel discussion with three lenders to talk about what makes a business "bankable" and things you can begin to do now to set yourself up for success in the future.
Contact Info: Registration is required. There is no fee for this webinar. Click here to register.