Mostly Free and Fun Things to do in CT with Kids This Weekend June 29-30: Festivals, Fireworks, Italian Feasts and Berry Picking

6/26/13 - By Pam Hegner

My son just got out of school this week, so it feels like our summer weekends are numbered! I want to cram everything in, but often get overwhelmed on how to narrow down the fun activities available in our state.

Mommy Poppins CT is here to simplify your summer plans. Our Connecticut Beaches and Water Fun Guide and Water Fun guide in Hartford County will keep you cool on hot days. We've also researched Carnivals, Fairs and Festivals in Litchfield County, Fairfield County and Eastern CT.  You may find some fresh ideas, especially in the beautiful and less-traveled quiet corners. Independence Day is next week and the 4th of July fireworks start this weekend. Check out our list of Fourth of July Fireworks Celebrations in Connecticut.

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Strawberry season is winding down, but raspberries are next! Our list of Pick Your Own Berry Farms makes it easy for you.  My family loves to hike, so we are always looking for new spots. Check out our review of an Afternoon Hike with Kids at Ward Reservation Near Fairfield County. Summer is a great time for exploring the state, so 20 Things to do in Litchfield County This Summer will also inspire a few day trips!  

The 4th of July gets started early this weekend at Hamden's Fireworks and Music on Friday night. Hartford's Riverfront is the site of Saturday's Latin Jazz and Salsa Fest. This free, family event features renowned musicians in the genre. 

Enjoy music, games, carnival rides, food and culture at the St. Andrew's Italian Feast in New Haven. This is the 113th annual festa. That's not a typo - this is a special event with longevity! The Greenwich Historical Society also honors Italian heritage at Festa al Fresco. Bring your favorite family dish to share, and they'll provide the entertainment and wine. Crafts for kids, bocci and you can have one last look at the From Italy to America art exhibit that ends this weekend. 

Believe it or not, I have never been to a drive-in movie. I will be checking out the Movies at the Southington Drive-In this summer. Flicks are shown weekly through August 31, and this weekend "The Love Bug" will be on the big screen. 

Have a future engineer? Why not join Robotics and Beyond in New Milford this Saturday for a little Tech Dissection.

There are two more weekends of elves, fairies, music, magic and fun at Ansonia's Midsummer Fantasy Renaissance Faire. You'll find stage shows, combat, unique vendors and much more. The Barnum Festival Great Street Parade runs through Bridgeport Sunday. Enjoy drums, music, clowns, floats and drill teams.

Outdoor concerts are in full swing, including Friday Noon Shows at the Old State House in Hartford, Bayley Beach in Rowayton, and the Sherman Summer Green in Fairfield. The little ones will enjoy Barnyard Music at Common Ground in New Haven. Cluck, moo and quack during this music and movement event and then take a nature walk or meet some farm animals. 

Check our events calendar often because we add new events daily, and sign up to get our updates on FacebookTwitter, and Pinterest.

Have a wonderful summer weekend!