VIEW AS WEBPAGE

Featured Events

New London Halloween Town

Waterfront Park

Friday, October 18th | 6PM-9PM


The City of New London, in collaboration with the Downtown New London Association, invites families to immerse themselves in a spooktacular Halloween experience at Halloween Town. This enchanting evening of frightful delights and ghoulish fun is for all ages.


Attendees can look forward to an array of exciting activities: trick or treating for families, costume contest, roaming entertainment, dance performances and more!


MORE INFO

Cedar Grove Cemetery Walking Tours

Saturday, October 19th | 10AM-5:30PM


Cedar Grove Cemetery & New London Landmarks are joining forces for an all-day event! Uconn professor Gail MacDonald and historian William Hosley will lead you through the intricacies of whaling history, colonial-era stories and gravestones of New London!


Proceeds will aid the restoration of historic monuments at the cemetery, a Thames River Heritage Park partner site. Purchase tickets online in advance or with cash in-person on event-day.


MORE INFO

Eugene O'Neill's 136th Birthday Party

Monte Cristo Cottage, New London

Saturday, October 19th | 2PM-4PM


You’re invited to celebrate the incredibly influential, Eugene O’Neill, in his childhood summer home, the Monte Cristo Cottage. Tour the cottage with O’Neill Scholars, Rob Richter and Steve Bloom, as your guides to learn about the O’Neill family, Eugene O’Neill’s plays, and how they have impacted society. Donations welcomed, free admission, no reservations required.


MORE INFO

A Look Behind the Scenes

Open Collections Day

THU, OCT 17 | 10AM-3PM

Lyman Allyn Art Museum, New London


Open Collections Days provide visitors with an opportunity to see staff at work in the Museum’s Hendel Library. Collections staff engage with visitors while working on research projects. Visitors will gain new access to the Lyman Allyn’s vast collection of original art, artifacts and objects. Free with admission on the third Thursday of every month.


MORE INFO

Blissworks Yoga

Yoga Basics

THU, OCT 17 | 5:30PM

Garde Arts Center, New London


Class covers basic yoga poses, breathwork, relaxation and more for all levels of practice. Each class is uniquely crafted and different postures are explored each time. Among the countless benefits of yoga, you will discover a stronger sense of self, improved concentration, strength and balance, greater flexibility and mobility, along with a greater sense of awareness.


REGISTER

Friends of Fort Griswold

Quarterly Meeting

THU, OCT 17 | 7PM

Fort Griswold, Groton


Friends of Fort Griswold meets regularly to support its mission to preserve, restore, maintain, and promote the historic value, earthworks, buildings, and grounds, known as Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park in cooperation with the State of Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Email Friends of Fort Griswold to learn how to get involved!


MORE INFO

Opening Reception

Personal to Political

FRI, OCT 18 | 5PM-7PM

Lyman Allyn Art Museum, New London


Celebrate the opening of Personal to Political: Celebrating the African American Artists of the Paulson Fontaine Press with an evening reception at the Museum. With 46 fine art prints by seventeen different artists and a large-scale basketball pyramid installation by Berkeley artist David Huffman, this exhibition presents a powerful array of figurative and abstract art.


MORE INFO

Blissworks Yoga

Intermediate Practice

SAT, OCT 19 | 8:30AM

Garde Arts Center, New London


Class covers basic yoga poses, breathwork, relaxation and more for all levels of practice. Each class is uniquely crafted and different postures are explored each time. Among the countless benefits of yoga, you will discover a stronger sense of self, improved concentration, strength and balance, greater flexibility and mobility, along with a greater sense of awareness.


REGISTER

NLMS Lighthouse Tours

Inside NL Harbor Pequot Light

SAT, OCT 19 & SUN, OCT 20 | 12PM

Pequot Light, New London


The weather is perfect for visiting Long Island Sound's oldest and tallest lighthouse. Thanks to a grant from friends at Veolia-NL Water Authority and at the Chelsea Groton Foundation, New London residents may visit with a $5 ticket through December, 2024! Climb 116 steps up into the lighthouse lantern for spectacular views of the Sound.​


MORE INFO

Leisure in the Age of Sail

NLCHS Thames River Cruise

SAT, OCT 19 | 1PM-3PM

Cross Sound Ferry Pier, New London


Join NLCHS for a step back in time aboard the Cecilia Ann as they voyage up the Thames River. Become a historical mariner for the afternoon, as they sing sea shanties and hear tales from the sea, while exploring historical maritime entertainment. Food and beverages will be offered. Featuring Fiddling Craig Edwards & Friends.


BUY TICKETS

Colorado Film Festival

Mountainfilm

SAT, OCT 19 | 7PM

Garde Arts Center, New London


Founded in 1979, Mountainfilm is one of America’s longest-running film festivals. The annual festival is held every Memorial Day weekend in Telluride, CO. Mountainfilm is a dynamic nonprofit organization and festival that celebrates stories of indomitable spirit and aims to inspire audiences through film, art and ideas.


BUY TICKETS

A Night of Laughter

Comedy Bebop

SAT, OCT 19 | 8PM

Hygienic Art, New London


Get ready for a hilarious night at Hygienic Art featuring Josh Mandl Boston's Comedian of the Year & Rising Star New England Winner as our headliner and hosted by the one and only Dame Fk! Grab your friends, come early for the best seats! This is a night you won't want to miss.


MORE INFO

Zen for All

Yoga with Kim

SUN, OCT 20 | 9AM

Hygienic Art, New London


Start your Sunday with Kim for a yoga experience at the Hygienic Art. Location will be weather dependent. Best of all, it's FREE! Don’t miss out on this unique experience to practice and unwind in downtown New London.


MORE INFO

Sunday Family Program

Author Winsome Bingham

SUN, OCT 20 | 2PM

Custom House Museum, New London


Ms. Bingham will read The Walk, illustrated by E. B. Lewis, followed by a conversation with families about empowering the children in their lives, and how we can foster and encourage them to make choices. The Walk is not only about voting and democracy. It is about community, love, and conversation. Space is limited, so please register online. Donations always welcomed.


RSVP & MORE INFO

Blissworks Yoga

Yoga Basics

TUE, OCT 22 | 9AM

Garde Arts Center, New London


Class covers basic yoga poses, breathwork, relaxation and more for all levels of practice. Each class is uniquely crafted and different postures are explored each time. Among the countless benefits of yoga, you will discover a stronger sense of self, improved concentration, strength and balance, greater flexibility and mobility, along with a greater sense of awareness.


REGISTER

Local Goods Await You

Groton Farmers Market

TUE, OCT 22 | 3-6PM

Washington Park, Groton


Primarily an agricultural market, Groton Farmers Market also includes a variety of local baked goods, seafood/fish, meats, poultry/eggs grown in Connecticut. Foods and food products must be identified as organic, or not, and include place of origin. The aim of the market, which runs weekly through October, is to make accessible, affordable, healthy, locally-produced food available to the community.


MORE INFO

Paranormal Activity Investigation

When the Dead Speak

TUE, OCT 22 | 6:30PM

Bill Memorial Library, Groton


Presenter Traci Boiselle, lead investigator and case manager for The Atlantic Paranormal Society (TAPS), will share basic theories of the paranormal and will introduce attendees to the TAPS method of investigation. She will also share her first-hand experiences from some of her favorite local investigations and will answer questions. Registration is required!


MORE INFO

Author Talk & Book Signing

Ryan C. Walker

THU, OCT 24 | 2PM

Submarine Force Museum, Groton


A comprehensive micro-historical exploration of Henry Breault's life, celebrating his legacy as the first submariner to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor. Walker's book, The Silent Service's First Hero, recognized Breault for his acts in 1924 for rescuing a fellow sailor from their sinking submarine. Walker will sign copies of his book and have copies for sale at the event. Bill Memorial Library will also host this author for a book signing and discussion on October 28, 2024.


MORE INFO

Blissworks Yoga

Intermediate Practice

THU, OCT 24 | 5:30PM

Garde Arts Center, New London


Class covers basic yoga poses, breathwork, relaxation and more for all levels of practice. Each class is uniquely crafted and different postures are explored each time. Among the countless benefits of yoga, you will discover a stronger sense of self, improved concentration, strength and balance, greater flexibility and mobility, along with a greater sense of awareness.


REGISTER

Gallery Talk & Reception

Louise McCagg

THU, OCT 24 | 5:30PM

Lyman Allyn Art Museum, New London


Join the LAAM for a gallery talk for Louise McCagg: The Artist’s Eye, now on display. Led by Louise McCagg’s daughters, artist Xanda McCagg and author Tory McCagg, and Curator Tanya Pohrt, this program will offer insights to the artist’s work, collection, and friendships.


MORE INFO

Around the Neighborhood Series

Catfeather Art and Music

THU, OCT 24 | 7PM

Fort Trumbull, New London


This years program focused on interesting presentations which shed a light on those who play a role in improving our day-to-day lives. Next up is Dawn Indermue and Rick Spencer of Catfeather Art and Music. This speaker series is free to the public and take place in the Visitors Center at the park. Please come early as seating is limited.


MORE INFO

Fun For the Family

Trunk or Treat

FRI, OCT 25 | 6PM-8PM

Submarine Force Museum, Groton


Local organizations will be present at the annual Halloween event at the US Navy Submarine Force Museum! Wear your costumes, collect treats from 20+ trunks and enjoy the fun that the holiday brings!


MORE INFO

Blissworks Yoga

Intermediate Practice

SAT, OCT 26 | 8:30AM

Garde Arts Center, New London


Class covers basic yoga poses, breathwork, relaxation and more for all levels of practice. Each class is uniquely crafted and different postures are explored each time. Among the countless benefits of yoga, you will discover a stronger sense of self, improved concentration, strength and balance, greater flexibility and mobility, along with a greater sense of awareness.


REGISTER

NLMS Lighthouse Tours

Inside NL Harbor Pequot Light

SAT, OCT 26 & SUN, OCT 27 | 12PM

Pequot Light, New London


The weather is perfect for visiting Long Island Sound's oldest and tallest lighthouse. Thanks to a grant from friends at Veolia-NL Water Authority and at the Chelsea Groton Foundation, New London residents may visit with a $5 ticket through December, 2024! Climb 116 steps up into the lighthouse lantern for spectacular views of the Sound.​


MORE INFO

Halloween Food Truck Festival

Spooktoberfest

SAT, OCT 26 & SUN, OCT 27 | 12PM-8PM

Washington Park, Groton


This free event has everything to offer in honor of Halloween! Live music, food trucks, haunted maze, scare zones, trick or treating, bounce houses and more. Live music on both days will be from 4pm-7pm with a DJ spinning the rest. All activities are family friendly!


MORE INFO

Opening Night Extravaganza

ECSO Returns to Stage

SAT, OCT 26 | 7:30PM

Garde Arts Center, New London


The opening program of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra’s 2024-25 season, its 15th under Music Director & Conductor Toshiyuki Shimada, spans two centuries and two continents. Kick off the return of ECSO to the Garde in style!


TICKETS

Zen for All

Yoga with Kim

SUN, OCT 27 | 9AM

Hygienic Art, New London


Start your Sunday with Kim for a yoga experience at the Hygienic Art. Location is weather dependent. Best of all, it's FREE! Don’t miss out on this unique experience to practice and unwind in downtown New London.


MORE INFO

Let Your Light Shine

Open Mic Night

SUN, OCT 27 | 6PM-9PM

Custom House, New London


Co-hosted by Kenny "Doc" Frazier and Christina Corcoran, the monthly open mic welcomes music, poetry, prose, stand-up or just say what is on your mind. Open to all ages and abilities for fun and camaraderie! You can even Live Stream the event from home.


MORE INFO

Haunted History House Tour

Ghosts of Groton Bank

SUN, OCT 27 | 6:30PM-8PM

Avery-Copp House, Groton


The chill in the air means Halloween is approaching. Tour the Avery-Copp House Museum and explore some history of the macabre. Hear some local ghost stories from the book of Ghosts of Groton Bank. Discover Victorian funerals, séances, the origins of Halloween and more. Reservations are required.


REGISTER

Blissworks Yoga

Yoga Basics

TUE, OCT 29 | 9AM

Garde Arts Center, New London


Class covers basic yoga poses, breathwork, relaxation and more for all levels of practice. Each class is uniquely crafted and different postures are explored each time. Among the countless benefits of yoga, you will discover a stronger sense of self, improved concentration, strength and balance, greater flexibility and mobility, along with a greater sense of awareness.


REGISTER

The Last of the Fall

Groton Farmers Market

TUE, OCT 29 | 3-6PM

Washington Park, Groton


The end may be in sight for the outdoor farmer's market, but Groton will host a seasonal one indoors throughout the fall and winter. Keep an eye out for the new monthly schedule for a place to get your holiday goods and favorite treats! Supporting local businesses is good for the soul.


MORE INFO

Lafayette Lecture

Dr. Manisha Sinha

TUES, OCT 29 | 6:30PM

Custom House Museum, New London


As they continue celebrating the bicentennial of Lafayette's 1824-1825 tour of the United States, the New London Maritime Society welcomes renowned historian Dr. Manisha Sinha to the Custom House. Dr. Sinha will present a talk entitled Lafayette in the Abolitionist Imagination.


BUY TICKETS

Blissworks Yoga

Yoga Basics

THU, OCT 31 | 5:30PM

Garde Arts Center, New London


Class covers basic yoga poses, breathwork, relaxation and more for all levels of practice. Each class is uniquely crafted and different postures are explored each time. Among the countless benefits of yoga, you will discover a stronger sense of self, improved concentration, strength and balance, greater flexibility and mobility, along with a greater sense of awareness.


REGISTER

Library Programs

Bill Memorial Library

October Programs


The library has programs for all ages and is a warm gathering space filled with family fun. Check out the library's calendar and events page for program details and registration requirements.


EVENTS CALENDAR | 860-445-0392

There's so much to enjoy in

Thames River Heritage Park.

Visit our Website

Visit the Park's Heritage Sites

Thames River Heritage Park Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization committed to connecting, preserving, supporting and promoting the history and heritage sites along the Thames River estuary today and for generations to come.

Institutional Partners

Thames River Heritage Park Institutional Partners are organizations committed to preserving and promoting our culture and history but may not have a site to welcome visitors. They are historic or cultural associations, “friends” organizations, and educational institutions. 

  • Connecticut Maritime Heritage Fest
  • Connecticut Sea Grant
  • Downtown New London Assoc.
  • Friends of Fort Griswold
  • Friends of Fort Trumbull
  • Groton Bank Historical Assoc.
  • Ledge Light Foundation
  • National Coast Guard Museum
  • New London County Historical Society
  • New London Landmarks
  • New London Maritime Society
  • Southeastern CT Cultural Coalition
  • Southeastern CT Enterprise Region
  • UCONN Avery Point Maritime Studies

Thank you to our Sponsors and Grantors


Facebook  X  Instagram  
LinkedIn Share This Email
X Share This Email