In this week’s Thursday Preview, we spotlight the latest additions to our Veterans Calendar for the upcoming Saturday, 18 April 2026 Edition. These events and programs are thoughtfully curated to support and engage Connecticut’s veteran community.

For a complete list of events and more details, please refer to the full Connecticut Veterans Calendar in our upcoming publication or though our previous publication doesn’t include the events here, it has the all others.

SEE LISTINGS FOLLOWING THE ARTICLE

Learn more about Connecticut Veterans Calendar Publications

Hartford Athletic Military Appreciation Night

Hartford Athletic Military Appreciation Night

SATURDAY APRIL 18TH

GATES OPEN AT 5PM

Military Appreciation Night pres. by Travelers

Hartford vs Loudoun @ 7PM

Be a part of Hartford Athletic’s salute to the brave men and women who serve our country. Join us as we honor active duty military members and veterans with special on-field ceremonies, recognizing the sacrifice and dedication of those who protect our freedoms. The first 500 fans will receive an exclusive Challenge Coin!

Receive Exclusive Pricing For active duty military and veterans

EAST STAND: $15.20 (37% OFF)

WEST WING: $17.60 (35% OFF)

WEST CENTER: $24.00 (35% OFF)

CLUB RESERVED: $28.00 (39% OFF)

CLUB SIDELINE: $40 (31% OFF)

Active duty military veterans with proof of service will enjoy $5 DOMESTIC DRAFTS and get 20% OFF OF OTHER CONCESSIONS

The first 500 PEOPLE with proof of military service will receive a challenge coin commemorating Hartford Athletic’s commitment to Connecticut’s military community.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 

TIM BURDELSKI USN 1999-2010

(860) 945-4207, TBURDELSKI@HARTFORDATHLETIC.COM

Presented by: Traveler’s 

Location: 

TRINITY HEALTH STADIUM

250 Huyshope Ave, Hartford, CT

American Legion Post 22, 8 Ball Tournament

NEXT RECURRENCE SUNDAY 19 APRIL 2026

American Legion Post 22, 8 Ball Tournament

SUNDAY AFTERNOON – 3:00 Ρ.Μ.

Sign-Ups at 2:45 P.M. Starts Promptly at 3 P.M.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

Veterans Club Non-Members Please Sign In Our Guestbook

$10 PER PERSON

MAXIMUM of 16 PLAYERS

NO COMMITMENT! DROP IN!

Hosted by: American Legion Post 22 Thomaston

(860) 484-4373

Location: 211 Elm St,

Thomaston, CT 06787

Somers Dept of Veterans Affairs Veterans Coffeehouse

Somers Dept of Veterans Affairs Veterans Coffeehouse

Somers Veterans Coffeehouse Welcomes Back Navy Veteran & Travel Specialist Ken Maltese on April 25. The Somers Department of Veterans Affairs is pleased to announce the next Veterans Coffeehouse, taking place on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 8:30 to 11:00 AM at the Somers Town Hall Auditorium, 600 Main Street, Somers, CT. All veterans are warmly invited to attend and are encouraged to bring a guest.

This month’s Coffeehouse features the return of Ken Maltese, Navy Veteran and Travel Specialist, whose previous presentation drew an enthusiastic response from attendees. Back by popular demand, Ken will share new adventure‑travel stories, highlight upcoming group trips, and provide exclusive travel insights tailored for veterans and their families.

The program will include:

• Adventure travel experiences from around the world

• Upcoming group travel opportunities

• Veteran‑friendly discounts and group rates

• Practical travel tips and resources

The Veterans Coffeehouse is a welcoming, informal gathering designed to build camaraderie, provide valuable information, and strengthen community connections among local veterans. Complimentary coffee and refreshments will be available.

For questions about the event or for information on veterans’ benefits and services, please contact the Somers Department of Veterans Affairs at veterans@somersct.gov.

We look forward to welcoming you on April 25.

Hosted by:Somers Dept of Veterans Affairs (860) 272-4207

Location: Somers Town Hall Auditorium

600 Main St, Somers, CT 06071

Cemetery Preservation Workshop – FREE

Cemetery Preservation Workshop – FREE

Join the East Haddam/Moodus VFW Post 3336 “Cemetery Troopers” for a free, hands-on workshop at Moodus Cemetery (off North Moodus Rd) on Saturday, April 25, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. (rain or shine). Attendees will learn proper methods for cleaning, resetting, and repairing gravestones, with participation encouraged. Dress appropriately. Pizza will be provided. For questions, contact Eric at 860-949-5876.

The Cemetery Troopers began after Post 3336 identified a lack of records ensuring all veterans in the town’s 23 cemeteries were properly honored. Their research uncovered 233 previously unrecognized veterans, now honored with flags. Expanding their mission, the group has since cleaned 250+ headstones, reset 138 stones, and repaired 114 monuments across East Haddam/Moodus cemeteries.

Hosted by: 

East Haddam/Moodus Memorial VFW Post 3336

(860) 873-8042

Location: Moodus Cemetery

North Moodus Road, Moodus, CT 06469

Don Scott Honoring Our Military Heroes Through Art

Don Scott Honoring Our Military Heroes Through Art

Saturday

April 18, 2026

1:00PM

Don Scott is a painter and a Veteran of the U. S. Air Force.  He has been documenting the lives of America’s Veterans by interviewing them and bringing their stories to life with a canvas and paint.  Each portrait  includes the Veteran as he/she is now and an aspect which characterizes their military service.  It is his desire to ensure each is not forgotten.  His paintings are displayed in Museums across the nation.  Don will be bringing his paintings to display and will explain his work and mission.    

This presentation is made possible through a grant from the

East Hartford Commission on Culture and Fine Arts 

Hosted by:World War II Legacy Foundation 

(860) 810-8736

Location: 102 Pitkin Street East Hartford CT 06108

🏌️‍♂️ Spring 2026 Coast Guard CCTI Golf Tournament

🏌️‍♂️ Spring 2026 Coast Guard CCTI Golf Tournament

April 30th

9:00 AM Registration

10:00AM Shotgun Start

Portland Golf Course, Portland, CT

We’re hosting the Spring 2026 Coast Guard CCTI Golf Tournament on April 30th at Portland Golf Course, and registration is now open.

This tournament is one of our major annual fundraisers supporting Coast Guard members, veterans, and families through the Coast Guard CPOA — a 501(c)(19) veteran‑affiliated nonprofit.

Registration is $125 per golfer and includes:

• 18 holes with cart

• Lunch & beverage package

• Long Drive contest entry

• Closest‑to‑the‑Pin entry

If you’d like to play, sponsor, or donate prizes, we’d love to have you join us.

Register by April 20th to secure your spot.

Click this registration link or scan the flyer.

Hosted by:

US Coast Guard CPOA 

Location:

Portland Golf Course, 

169 Bartlett St,

Portland, CT 06480

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Blue Angels Foundation of Manchester Designer Purse BINGO

Blue Angels Foundation of Manchester Designer Purse BINGO

👜✨ Designer Purse Bingo is coming to Manchester!** ✨👜

Join the Blue Angels Foundation of Manchester for a fun afternoon of Bingo, Designer Purses & Prizes!

📅 May 3rd |

Doors open at 11 AM

Bingo Games start at 12 Noon

📍 Army & Navy Club – Manchester, CT

🎟 $40 Advance | $50 at the Door

Includes admission, 10 bingo games & a dauber

💎 Extra Fun:

• Raffles (including a Vintage Louis Vuitton purse)

• Door prizes

• Bonus bingo cards

🎁 Bring an unwrapped gift for a child (ages 10–12) for a chance to win a door prize!

🎟 Get tickets:

TheBlueAngelsFoundationOfManchester.org

Grab your friends and come play for a chance to win designer bags!👜💙

Hosted by: 

Michelle Grous

(860) 873-8042

Location: Army & Navy Club

1090 Main St,

Manchester, CT 06040

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Save A Suit Free Suits For Veterans at the State Capitol

Save A Suit Free Suits For Veterans at the State Capitol

Veterans join us on Monday May 4th for our veteran’s celebration at the Connecticut state capitol.Veterans will have the opportunity to select a free suit and professional attire, with options available for both men and women! We want to make you look your best for your next career step or special occasion. In addition, a variety of local organizations and veteran-focused resources will be on-site, offering support, connections, and valuable information.Complimentary professional headshots will also be available, giving attendees a polished look for resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and beyond. Light appetizers will be provided around lunchtime by Wood-n-Tap Hartford. We’re proud to host this event in the historic State Capitol, creating a meaningful backdrop for a day focused on service, community, and opportunity.

Sign up to pick out a FREE suit, professional clothing attire and more! Spots are limited, sign up soon.

Hosted By: Save A Suit  (203) 456-6801

Location: Connecticut State Capitol, 210 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT 06106

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Armed Forces Day Luncheon 2026

Armed Forces Day Luncheon 2026

Friday, May 15, 2026

11AM

Join us for a memorable celebration at the Aqua Turf Club for the 2026 Armed Forces Day Luncheon! Let’s honor and show gratitude to the brave men and women serving our country. Enjoy a delicious meal, connect with fellow supporters, and participate in activities to commemorate our armed forces. Mark your calendars for this special event!!!!!

Dress Code: Business, Service Dress, Class B or Duty Uniform

General admission

Individual ticket $50

Table $500 includes 10 tickets

Registrations closes

11:59 PM 9 May 2026

Walk-ins are welcome

Hosted by: National Guard Association Of Connecticut

(860) 247-5000

Location: Aqua Turf Club

556 Mulberry St,

Plantsville, CT 06479

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Montville’s Annual Memorial Day Parade Celebration

Montville’s Annual Memorial Day Parade Celebration

Montville friends, neighbors, and families —  need your help spreading the word.

This Memorial Day, the VFW is proud to host the official town-sponsored family-friendly post-parade celebration as we come together to honor the meaning of Memorial Day and celebrate the 250th anniversary of America.

After the parade, join us at the VFW for a community celebration featuring:

✅ Live music

✅ Bouncy house for the kids

✅ Free burgers and hot dogs

✅ Free ice cream

✅ Family-friendly fun

✅ Fireworks later that evening

A lot of hard work, planning, and expense has gone into making this a special day for Montville — a day meant to bring people together, support community spirit, and give families something memorable to enjoy.

Please help us spread the word.

A like and a share are free, but they go a long way in helping support an event meant to unite a community.

So please repost this, tag friends and family, and help us make sure people know what’s happening.

Post-Parade Party at the VFW

Sunday, May 17, 2026 — 2:00 PM

Fireworks at the Drive-In — 8:30 PM

Let’s make this a proud day for Montville, for our families, and for the people working hard behind the scenes to make it happen.

Hosted by:

Montville VFW Post 10060 

(860) 848-3750

Location: 91 Raymond Hill Rd,

Uncasville, CT 06382

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Wethersfield CT Memorial Day Parade 2026 

Wethersfield CT Memorial Day Parade 2026 

will take place Saturday, May 23, 2026, stepping off at 9 am, followed by a Memorial Day Ceremony in front of First Church of Christ immediately following the parade.

This year’s theme is “America 250.”  

If your organization is interested in marching in this year’s parade please complete a Memorial Day Parade Marcher Form.

The Memorial Day committee is once again requesting financial contributions for the Memorial Day and Veterans Day activities this year. We need your support! Any contribution will be deeply appreciated. Information can be obtained from and contributions made to:

Town of Wethersfield – Memorial Day Celebration
Care of Parks and Recreation Department
505 Silas Deane Highway
Wethersfield, CT 06109

The Memorial Day Committee would like to encourage all residents to demonstrate their support for the veterans and our country by displaying the American Flag during the weekend.

Hosted by:

Town of Wethersfield CT

Location: Steps off at DMV on State Street, Wethersfield. Ends at Cemetery Path Wethersfield.

Parade Map

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Colchester Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony 2026

Colchester Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony 2026

On Sunday May 24th, 2026 starting at 12:30 PM, Colchester will hold its annual Memorial Day Parade.  The Parade is a community effort supported by local groups that are committed to make this event a success.  We strive to show the pride we feel in our departed military veterans by asking local organizations and members of the community to step up and participate by making a float or marching in the annual parade. The parade committee is expecting to have several military units represented.  They will include  the Connecticut Army National Guard, 1109th TASM-G, U S Navy US Marine Reserve, and the US Air Force Reserve.  Maybe we will have a military aircraft flyover Colchester also. Our American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Colchester Veterans Honor Guard will also participate.  There is plenty of room for community organizations to help fill in our ranks.  
The electronic application to join this year’s Memorial Day Parade is available using this link.  Hard copies will be available through the First Selectman’s office if needed.

The Parade Committee will award prizes in three categories:
1. Best volunteer marching unit
2. Most patriotic float
3. Most creative float
We encourage any veteran, or local organization in Colchester and our surrounding towns to join us in honoring our fallen heroes.

Hosted by: Colchester Memorial Day Parade Committee

Location: Colchester CT Parade Map

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Milford’s Memorial Day Parade 2026

Milford’s Memorial Day Parade 2026

Sunday May 24, 2026. Step off from Parsons at 2pm

All units are asked to assemble at the Daniel Wasson Field parking lot at 1pm

70 West Main Street Milford CT 06460

Please let Tom Jackson know if you can attend and participate in any one of these events to honor our fallen military. They had served bravely ensuring and preserving our freedoms. We are looking forward to hearing from you and seeing you this Memorial Day.

Tom’s email address is jackson.west@att.net

Specific questions regarding Milford Memorial Day events can be addressed to Tom Jackson 203-257-2855

Hosted by:

Milford Connecticut Veterans, Ceremony and Parade Commission 

Location: 70 West Main Street Milford CT 06460

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Stafford CT Memorial Day Observances & Parade 2026

Stafford CT Memorial Day Observances & Parade 2026

In Stafford, Connecticut, Memorial Day begins at 7:00 a.m. with cemetery ceremonies at Stafford Springs, St. Edward, West Stafford, Hillside, and Staffordville cemeteries, led by American Legion Post 26 and VFW Post 9990.

The parade steps off at 11:00 a.m. from Furnace Avenue, proceeds along Main Street, and concludes at the Wall of Honor in Veterans Memorial Park with a memorial ceremony around 11:45 a.m. Lineup begins at 10:00 a.m. on Furnace Avenue. Road closures and parking restrictions will be in effect; participants must pre-register and follow all guidelines.https://www.explorestaffordct.com/eventscalendar
https://forms.office.com/g/1A7WEVgBAD
Hosted by: Town of Stafford Connecticut

Location: Beginning at Furnace Avenue concluding at the Wall Of Honor,

Stafford, CT

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Trumbull CT Memorial Day Activities & Parade 2026

Trumbull CT Memorial Day Activities & Parade 2026

Memorial Day activities will take place Monday, May 25, 2026, beginning with an 8:00 AM Vietnam Veterans ceremony and wreath-laying at the Vietnam Memorial on White Plains Road. A Town Hall ceremony will honor Grand Marshal Susan Stuban Monks, a former U.S. Naval Reserve Lieutenant and longtime advocate for veterans. The parade steps off at 10:00 AM from Long Hill Market and proceeds to Town Hall. Groups wishing to march may register at https://veoci.com/v/p/form/bsrqjuncb35m

Flags will line Main Street from Memorial Day through September 11. Sponsorships to honor active service members, veterans, or those who have passed are available at https://www.trumbull-ct.gov/641/Flag-Sponsors

Students in grades 6–8 may enter the parade theme contest at https://www.trumbull-ct.gov/754/Memorial-Day-Parade-Theme-Contest

Full Grand Marshal biography available at https://www.trumbull-ct.gov/640/Grand-Marshal

Hosted by:

Town of Trumbull CT

Location: The parade itself will step off at 10 AM, beginning at the new shopping plaza, Long Hill Market, and ending at Town Hall

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West Hartford CT Memorial Day Parade 2026

West Hartford CT Memorial Day Parade 2026

Monday, May 25, 2026 at 10:00 AM (step-off)
Assembly at 9:30 AM – Farmington Ave west of Woodrow St
Parade concludes at Town Hall (approx. 1 hour)

Route: Farmington Ave → South Main St → Burr St → Town Hall

Memorial Day Ceremony: Approximately 11:15 AM at Veterans Memorial (North Main St & Farmington Ave)

Notes:

• No rain date; indoor ceremony at Town Hall Auditorium if needed (11:00 AM)
• Free municipal parking; parking ban along route begins 12:01 AM
• All veterans welcome to march; organizations must register by May 10, 2026

Sign Up https://www.westhartfordct.gov/visit-us/memorial-day-parade/sign-up-form

Hosted by:

Town of West Hartford  

Location: Farmington Avenue to South Main Street

West Hartford Connecticut

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East Hartford, CT Memorial Day Events 2026 

East Hartford, CT Memorial Day Events 2026 

will take place Monday, May 25, 2026, beginning with a 10:00 a.m. parade stepping off from 9 Riverside Drive and proceeding to the Fallen Star Memorial at Goodwin University. The day includes three parts: the parade, a commemorative program at the memorial immediately following, and a community celebration featuring food trucks, music, activities, and vendors. Those wishing to participate in the parade must register by April 1, 2026 at https://www.easthartfordct.gov/parks-recreation/webforms/2026-memorial-day-parade-participant-registration. Volunteers must register by May 15, 2026 at https://www.easthartfordct.gov/parks-recreation/webforms/2026-memorial-day-parade-volunteer-registration. Sponsorship applications are due April 27, 2026 at https://www.easthartfordct.gov/parks-recreation/webforms/2026-memorial-day-event-sponsorships. Vendor registration closes May 4, 2026; details are available at https://www.easthartfordct.gov/parks-recreation/webforms/2026-east-hartford-memorial-day-vendor-registration-information or by contacting jtedesco@easthartfordct.gov. For updates, visit https://www.easthartfordct.gov or subscribe at https://www.easthartfordct.gov/subscribe.

Hosted by: Town of East Hartford & East Hartford Veterans Commission 

Location: stepping off from 9 Riverside Drive and proceeding to the Fallen Star Memorial at Goodwin University.

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West Haven CT Memorial Day Parade 2026

West Haven CT Memorial Day Parade 2026

The city’s Memorial Day parade will step off at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 25, 2026.

A West Haven veteran will serve as grand marshal and lead the procession of vets, dignitaries and bands along the 1 ½-mile parade route, which follows Campbell Avenue from Captain Thomas Boulevard to Center Street.

The grand marshal is tapped by the West Haven Veterans Council, which helps the city organize the annual parade, for years of service to the military, fellow vets and the community, the latter of which is the cornerstone of the qualifications for grand marshal, council President Dave Ricci said.

This year’s edition of southern Connecticut’s oldest and largest Memorial Day parade has no rain date and will include three marching divisions and a military division, as well as special accommodations for disabled veterans.

Stay tuned for more details.

Presented by: City of West Haven & West Haven Veterans Council

Location: Campbell Avenue from Captain Thomas Boulevard to Center Street

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American Legion Post 2 Flag Retirement Ceremony

American Legion Post 2 Flag Retirement Ceremony

All Are Welcome

Join us at American Legion Post 2. Bristol, CT

Sunday,

June 7, 2026

11:00 AM

Post 2. Bristol, Connecticut

Honoring the proper retirement of unserviceable American flags with respect and tradition.

Bring your old flags for retirement.

You can drop them off at our receptacle outside the canteen door anytime. Thank you.

★Respect. Honor. Tradition. ★

Hosted by: 

American Legion Post 2 Bristol  (860) 589-0088

Location: 22 Hooker Ct, Bristol, CT 06010

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VFW Post 399 & American Legion Post 63, 2026 Golf Tournament

VFW Post 399 & American Legion Post 63, 2026 Golf Tournament

Monday June 15, 2026

9am Shotgun Scramble

@ Longshore Golf Course

$175 Per Person includes 18 Holes, Putting Contest, Goody Bag, Prizes, and Luncheon at The Post

Register, Sponsor, Volunteer

@WWW.VFW399CT.ORG

Presented by: 

VFW POST 399 

(203) 227-6796

& AMERICAN LEGION POST 63 (860) 436-9986

Location(s):

Tournament 

Longshore Golf Course

260 Compo Rd S,

Westport, CT 06880

Luncheon VFW Post 399 465 Riverside Ave,

Westport, CT