Celebrating 250 Years of Independence in Simsbury

June 30, 2026

Here are the sections in this email:

  • Community Conversation
    on July 1
  • Beware of Dangerously Hot Weather
  • Celebrate July 4 & America 250
  • Special Holiday Transit Fares
  • Summer Food
    Assistance Available
  • Community Events
 

Community Conversation on July 1

Senator Paul Honig and I would be delighted to see you tomorrow in Simsbury for a casual evening of conversation and community as we unpack the bills we passed and what that means for our community. 

đź“… Wednesday, July 1
⏰ 5:00 p.m.
📍 Lucky Gut – 10 Wilcox Street

This is an opportunity to share your thoughts, ask questions, and discuss the issues that matter most to you and your family. While the General Assembly recently concluded the 2026 legislative session, the work of building a strong Connecticut never stops, and your input helps shape the priorities I bring back to Hartford. 

I look forward to seeing you there and continuing our conversation about the future of our community and state.
 

Beware of Dangerously Hot Weather

The state has activated the Extreme Hot Weather Protocol due to a long-duration heat wave featuring severely hot and humid weather. The protocol is in effect from now through at least 6:00 p.m. on Sunday.

The Simsbury Volunteer Ambulance Association reminds everyone to protect yourself in the heat and provide the following safety tips:

State agencies, municipalities, and other partners are coordinating with United Way 2-1-1 to ensure that information regarding cooling centers is available statewide. Anyone in need of a place to get out of the heat can find their nearest cooling center at www.211ct.org or by calling 2-1-1. 
Learn more here
 

Celebrate July 4 & America 250

Join friends and neighbors as Simsbury celebrates the Fourth of July and the 250th anniversary of American independence with a series of patriotic events for the whole family.

The festivities begin with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra's Talcott Mountain Music Festival – Celebrate America, featuring patriotic favorites performed by the Hartford Symphony Orchestra and Hartford Chorale, followed by fireworks. This year's concert also serves as a special tribute to America's 250th anniversary.

Event details:

  • Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center
  • Concert starts at 7:30 p.m.
  • Fireworks follow concert
  • Rain date: 07/05
CLICK HERE for tickets!

The celebration continues on Wednesday, July 8, when the Simsbury Historical Society hosts a free, family-friendly event honoring 250 years of American independence.

Schedule of Events:

  • 6:00 p.m. – Liberty Tree dedication ceremony
  • 6:30 p.m. – Reading of the Declaration of Independence
  • 7:00 p.m. – Patriotic concert by the Simsbury Community Band

All activities will take place on the Simsbury Historical Society grounds in downtown Simsbury. Be sure to bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket!

Then, on Saturday, July 11, continue the celebration at Simsbury's America 250 parade. The parade steps off at 12:00 p.m. from the intersection of Owens Brook Boulevard and Hopmeadow Street before traveling through Simsbury Center to Jim Gallagher Way. Parade floats will be displayed along Iron Horse Boulevard, with post-parade festivities at and around the Simsbury Historical Society continuing until 3:00 p.m.

I hope you'll join our community as we celebrate our nation's history, honor those who came before us, and enjoy these memorable events together.
 

Special Holiday Transit Fares

Getting around Connecticut this Independence Day weekend will be easier and more affordable thanks to special fare discounts. On Saturday, July 4, and Sunday, July 5, riders can travel free on all CTtransit bus routes statewide and enjoy a special $2.50 fare on the CTrail Hartford Line and Shore Line East, making it easier to attend Fourth of July celebrations, including Hartford Bonanza 2026. 

The free CTtransit promotion includes CTfastrak and ADA paratransit services. Buses will operate on a Sunday schedule both days, with some expanded service available. No tickets or passes are required—simply hop on board and ride.

Adults traveling on the CTrail Hartford Line and Shore Line East can ride between any two stations on each rail line for just $2.50, while children's fares will be $1.00 on CTrail Hartford Line and free on Shore Line East. These special fares do not apply to Metro-North's New Haven Line. 

To commemorate America's 250th anniversary, riders will also see buses featuring special CT250-themed designs and trains decorated with red, white, and blue striping, flags, and CT250 logos. Commemorative tickets will also be available throughout the holiday weekend.

Whether you're heading to a fireworks display, a parade, or spending time with family and friends, take advantage of these special fares and enjoy a safe, convenient, and festive way to travel this holiday weekend.
 

Summer Food Assistance Available

Families across Connecticut are receiving extra help putting food on the table this summer through the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (S-EBT) program.

The Connecticut Department of Social Services, in partnership with the Connecticut State Department of Education, is providing a one-time $120 food benefit for each eligible child to help offset meal costs while school is out of session. More than 350,000 children are expected to get support from the program.

This investment helps families with children pay for food during the summer months while school is not in session. More than $42 million in S-EBT funding is expected to be provided to Connecticut families this summer.

Who is eligible?

Children may qualify if their family:

  • Participates in SNAP, Temporary Family Assistance Program (TFA), or Husky A with an income below 185% of the federal poverty level or
  • Was approved for free or reduced-price school meals during the 2025-26 school year.

Most eligible families automatically received their benefits electronically last weekend. They are being loaded onto existing SNAP or EBT cards, including previously issued Summer EBT cards. Families new to the program will receive an EBT card by mail.

Families who are not automatically enrolled can apply for Summer EBT through August 31, 2026.
Click here to learn more
 

Community Events
 

Shakedown Citi, a beloved Grateful Dead tribute band, will perform on its Run For the Roses Tour at Talcott Mountain Collective. The show starts at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 5.
 
 

Catch the Kinetic Ukes Free Community Concert at Simsbury Meadows Performing Arts Center for a lively, family-friendly evening of ukulele music. This free event invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy spirited performances in a welcoming outdoor venue. The show will be held on Sunday, July 19 at 7 p.m.