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
CVB Thursday Preview: Community Support and Commemoration in Focus
This week’s Thursday Preview spotlights a robust schedule of additions to the Connecticut Veterans Calendar for the upcoming Saturday, 18 April 2026. From professional development and artistic tributes to the kickoff of the 2026 Memorial Day season, these programs are curated by Connecticut veterans to keep our community informed and engaged.
Spotlight: Saturday, 18 April 2026
- Hartford Athletic Military Appreciation Night: Join the salute at Trinity Health Stadium as Hartford takes on Loudoun United. Gates open at 5:00 PM. The night features special on-field ceremonies and exclusive ticket pricing for active duty and veterans. Be one of the first 500 fans with proof of service to claim a commemorative challenge coin.
- Honoring Our Heroes Through Art: Visit East Hartford at 1:00 PM to meet Air Force Veteran and painter Don Scott. His mission—documenting the lives of veterans through portraiture—ensures that the stories behind the service are never forgotten.
Professional Growth and Social Connections
The coming weeks offer unique opportunities for veterans to prepare for their next chapter:
- Save A Suit (May 4): A major career event at the State Capitol providing free professional attire, headshots, and networking.
- Veterans Coffeehouse (April 25): Navy Veteran Ken Maltese returns to Somers Town Hall to share travel insights and veteran-friendly adventure opportunities.
- Recreation: From the American Legion Post 22 8-Ball Tournament in Thomaston to various fundraising golf tournaments in Portland and Westport, there are ample ways to connect with fellow service members.
Looking Ahead: Memorial Day & Heritage
Registration is now open for 2026 Memorial Day parades in Wethersfield, Colchester, Milford, Stafford, Trumbull, West Hartford, East Hartford, and West Haven. This year carries added significance as many towns celebrate the America 250 milestone. Additionally, those interested in historic preservation can join the “Cemetery Troopers” in Moodus on April 25th for a hands-on workshop in cleaning and repairing veteran headstones.
For full details, registration links, and parade maps, refer to the complete Connecticut Veterans Calendar at ctvetsbulletin.org.
Thursday 16 April 2026 5:00 AM
Included in the Connecticut Veterans Calendar on ctvetsbulletin.org for Saturday, 18 April 2026
Events are in order by date
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:
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:
Location:
169 Bartlett St,
Portland, CT 06480
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:
(860) 873-8042
Location: Army & Navy Club
1090 Main St,
Manchester, CT 06040
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
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
Walk-ins are welcome
Hosted by: National Guard Association Of Connecticut
(860) 247-5000
Location: Aqua Turf Club
556 Mulberry St,
Plantsville, CT 06479
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:
(860) 848-3750
Location: 91 Raymond Hill Rd,
Uncasville, CT 06382
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:
Location: Steps off at DMV on State Street, Wethersfield. Ends at Cemetery Path Wethersfield.
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
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
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
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:
Location: The parade itself will step off at 10 AM, beginning at the new shopping plaza, Long Hill Market, and ending at Town Hall
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:
Location: Farmington Avenue to South Main Street
West Hartford Connecticut
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.
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
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
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
Presented by:
(203) 227-6796
& AMERICAN LEGION POST 63 (860) 436-9986
Location(s):
Tournament
260 Compo Rd S,
Westport, CT 06880
Luncheon VFW Post 399 465 Riverside Ave,
Westport, CT