In this week’s Thursday Preview, we spotlight the latest additions to our Veterans Calendar for the upcoming Saturday, 9 August 2025. 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.
This Thursday Preview highlights new Connecticut Veterans events added to the upcoming Saturday Calendar. Each listing has its own dedicated PDF flyer for easy viewing, sharing, or printing. All events are located in Connecticut and are curated specifically for Veterans, service members, and their families.
Thursday 7 August 2025 5:00 AM
Included in the Connecticut Veterans Calendar on ctvetsbulletin.org for Saturday, 9 August, 2025
Events are in order by date
Connecticut State Chess Association Veterans Program
Connecticut State Chess Association Veterans Program
CSCA 2025 SUMMER CLUB
Free Entry • Prizes • Rated & Casual Play
Presented by Connecticut State Chess Association (501(c)(7))
📍 Raymond Library, East Hartford
🗓 Saturdays: Aug 2, 9, 16
🕙 10 AM – 2 PM
Events:
- Classical (G/90+10) – 1 game
- Quads (G/25+5) – 3 games
- Speed:
- Aug 2: Blitz (G/3+2)
- Aug 9: Rapid (G/10+3)
- Aug 16: Member’s Choice
- Casual play all dates
Prizes: CSCA credits & trophies
FREE for Veterans & Military
📧 Register by Friday: events.CSCA@gmail.com
Include: date, event, USCF ID, phone, address (if any)
All equipment provided. No solicitation.
Hosted by:
Connecticut State Chess Association
(203) 887-9987
Location:
840 Main St,
East Hartford, CT 06108
2nd Annual Darts For Vets
🎯2nd Annual Darts For Vets
Join us for a day of fun, competition, and community support!
📅 Saturday, August 9th
⏰ Doors open at 11 AM – Darts fly at 2 pm
📍 VFW Post 5095, 20 North Maple Street, East Hampton
💲 $30 to play (Includes $10 to the pot & $20 to The VFW Relief Fund)
🍽 Cash Bar & Kitchen Open – Enjoy delicious food & snacks!
🎟 Raffles & Board Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Bring your skills, support our veterans, and enjoy an unforgettable event!
📞 Questions? Contact Jason Prince at 860-837-4550
Let’s make this year’s event even bigger—see you there! 🎯🇺🇸
Hosted by:
(860) 267-8837
Location: 20 N Maple St, East Hampton, CT 06424
Yacht Rock Tribute Featuring New Yacht City
Yacht Rock Tribute Featuring New Yacht City
Saturday August 9
7 PM – 9 PM
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Come join us at the Veterans of Foreign Wars for an epic night of music, dancing, and good vibes! Get ready to party with NEW YACHT CITY as they bring their high-energy performance to the stage. This is an in-person event that you won’t want to miss. Grab your friends and let’s make some memories together! See you there!
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-yacht-city-at-westport-vfw-tickets-1363649555529?
$15 Advanced Tickets
$20 At the door
Hosted by:
(203) 227-6796
Location: 465 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880
East Haven American Legion Auxiliary Unit 89 Q & A With Carol May House of Heroes
East Haven American Legion Auxiliary Unit 89 Q & A With Carol May House of Heroes
Date: 08-11-2025
Time: 6:00 pm
AGENDA:
- Q&A Session with HOH Executive Director
- Looking to help houses for Veterans
Contact: Ann Penington
203-314-6107
Presented by: House Of Heroes Connecticut
Hosted by:
East Haven American Legion Auxiliary Unit 89
(203) 469-2204
Location:
91 Taylor Ave.
East Haven, CT 06512
VFW Post 7788 Annual Family Picnic 2025
VFW Post 7788 Annual Family Picnic 2025
SAT Aug 23. 10-430pm.
Tix $20 members/$25 Guests.
Includes Liver,Bacon,Onions sandwiches, and Egg with Bacon/Cheese. Till 1145.
Ceremony at Noon
Free beer,soda,and water.
Hot dogs,hamburgers, clams if available, corn on the cob,watermelon, lots of side dishes.
DJ Music.
Games,
50/50 raffle.
Tix available July 1st.
Open to the Public.
Hosted by:
Travis C. Kitchen VFW Post 7788
(203) 874-9982
Location: 422 Naugatuck Ave, Milford, CT 06460
Somers Veterans Coffee House
August 30 2025
Somers Veterans Coffee House August 30 2025
SATURDAY, AUGUST 30, 2025
8:30 AM – 11:00 AM
This month’s featured speaker is Vic Musante, a decorated Vietnam Veteran, retired Army helicopter pilot, and FAA aviation expert. Now serving as a Field Analyst with Tours of Duty, Vic has returned to Vietnam multiple times to help recover the stories—and sometimes remains—of America’s missing service members.
With decades of aviation and investigative experience, Vic will share powerful insights into the mission of remembrance, recovery, and honoring those who never came home.
All veterans, military members, and guests are welcome. Free coffee and light refreshments provided. No RSVP needed.
About the Coffeehouse:
Held monthly by the Somers Department of Veterans Affairs, the Coffeehouse is a space for connection, information, and veteran-focused presentations.
Contact: Veterans@SomersCT.gov
Hosted by:
Somers Department of Veterans Affairs (860) 272-4207
Location:
Somers Town Hall
Auditorium, 600 Main St,
Somers, CT 06071
VFW Post 5095 Diecast Show
VFW Post 5095 Diecast Show
SUNDAY
SEPTEMBER 7TH
Vendor set up 7-9am
Show Time 9 AM-3PM
SPECTATOR ADMISSION $2.00
VENDOR TABLES $20
Vendors contact
Tom Cruz at (203) 600-9635 to reserve your space
- HOTWHEELS
- M2
- AMERICAN MUSCLE CARS
- MATCHBOX Collectibles
- JUST TRUCKS
- JOHNNY LIGHTNING
The kitchen will be open for Breakfast Sandwiches and Lunch items. Post Canteen will be open 9-close
Proceeds support local Vets and VFW Post 5095
Hosted by:
(860) 267-8837
Location: 20 N Maple St,
East Hampton, CT 06424
S.A.L. Milford Appreciation Breakfast for Milford First Responders + Retirees
S.A.L. Milford Appreciation Breakfast for Milford First Responders + Retirees
Date: Tuesday, September 9, 2025
7:30a.m. 10:00a.m.
American Legion Post 196 Sons of the American Legion (S.A.L.)
*Appreciation Breakfast* for City of Milford First Responders Police + Fire + EMS + Retirees
* Thank you for your service!*
*Please join us for:
- Scrambled Eggs
- Sausage, Bacon
- French Toast
- Home Fries
- Muffins/Pastries
- Fruit Salad
- Juices
- Regular & Decaf Coffee
Information: Don Gerarde (860) 884-8738
Hosted by:
Sons of the American Legion Milford (203) 874-9822
Location: American Legion Post 196 25 Merwin Ave, Milford, CT 06460
Parking: is available at the Legion, across the street in an additional lot, and on the street
Operation Warrior Horse Fall Retreat
Operation Warrior Horse Fall Retreat
Operation Warrior Horse Retreat provides Veterans with a 24-hour immersive experience designed to support emotional healing and personal growth. Through guided interaction with licensed mental health professionals and therapeutic animals, participants gain a deeper understanding of how trauma and triggers affect their nervous system and relationships. By engaging in mindful activities and connecting with others, Veterans begin to release shame and guilt, build emotional awareness, and develop tools to regulate stress. The retreat helps lay the foundation for ongoing therapy and equips participants with renewed confidence for managing the challenges of civilian life.
Tickets: https://www.healinghoofbeatsofct.org/events/operation-warrior-horse-fall-retreat?
Hosted by:
Healing Hoofbeats of Connecticut
(203) 244-8411
Location: 41 Judge Ln, Bethlehem, CT 06751
VFW Post 9460 3rd Annual TIP A VET
VFW Post 9460 3rd Annual TIP A VET
September 13th 12:30p.m. – 5:30p.m.
Bring your family and friends Visit with your favorite Vet
Our guest bartenders are:
- 12:00 p.m.- 12:30 p.m. Wendy
- 12:30 p.m.- 1:00 p.m. John Jacques
- 1:00p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Kerry Dalling
- 1:30p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Bob Bracci
- 2:00p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Bob Chonka
- 2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Steve Evangelista
- 3:00p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Eddie Rosales
- 3:30 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. Todd Sasso
- 4:00 p.m. – 4:30p.m. Dan Paz
- 4:30 p.m. – 5:00p.m. Hector Pena
- 5:00p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Matt Grich
- 5:30p.m.- 6:00 p.m. Wendy
Hosted by:
Raymond T. Goldbach VFW Post 9460
(203) 377-0214
Location: 100 Veterans Blvd, Stratford, CT 06615
Virginia Military Institute (VMI) Commander’s Jazz Band
Virginia Military Institute (VMI) Commander’s Jazz Band
Saturday 13 September 2025 5:00PM – 9:00PM
An evening of dining and dancing to big band sounds! Social Hour 5:00-6:00 p.m., Dinner: 6:00-9:00 p.m. Menu: Ziti, sausage & meatballs, green beans, salad, coffee/cake, cash bar. $30 per person, $50 per couple. Purchase through Eventbrite at the link following, or in-person at the American Legion after 2:00 p.m. M-F, or 1:00 Sat/Sun.
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/virginia-military-institute-commanders-band-tickets-1373352557469?
Presented by: Frank C Godfrey American Legion Post 12 (203) 866-8249
Location: 60 County St, Norwalk, CT 06851
September VFW Mixtape Match
September VFW Mixtape Match
Sunday, September 21, 2025
1:00PM – 4:00PM
What is MIXTAPE MATCH?
Mixtape Match plays just like traditional bingo. But, instead of letters and numbers on the playing cards, there are songs. The host will play about a minute of a song and tell you the name of the song and artist. If you have it on your card, check it off. It’s that easy! The game is played individually. No teams necessary.
Beverages will be available for purchase. You may bring your own snacks.
Round 1 starts at 1:00pm Sharp!
(3 Rounds Of Play) Materials can be picked up starting at 12:30pm Prizes Awarded To The Winner(s) Of Each Round $20.00 Gets You Two Match Cards Per Round
Please call Laurie to reserve a spot for you and your friends.
(203) 269-4628
Hosted by:
(203) 269-7114
Location: 23 Prince St, Wallingford, CT 06492
American Legion Post 68 Paint -N- Sip
American Legion Post 68 Paint -N- Sip
SEPTEMBER 25TH
6:30-8:30PM
COME PAINT & SIP WITH US!
ALL SUPPLIES FOR PAINTING PROVIDED
Instructed by Sweet Caroline
$40
BYOB AND SNACKS
COME HAVE A FUN NIGHT WITH FRIENDS!!
RAFFLE CALENDAR ! GET YOUR CHANCE AT A PRIZE A DAY FOR THE MONTH OF OCTOBER
RSVP by September 18th to Liz 860-213-0856
NO WALK INS
Hosted by:
(860) 828-9102
Location: 154 Porters Pass, Kensington, CT 06037
VFW Post 9460 Annual Golf Star Luncheon
VFW Post 9460 Annual Golf Star Luncheon
📅 Sunday, September 28, 2025 |
Dinner at 12 noon
🎟️ Tickets: $20 per person
Menu Highlights:
Fruit & Cheese Platters, Chicken Francese, Vegetable Pasta Primavera, Roasted Potatoes, Green Beans Almondine
Dessert Table
The VFW Auxiliary invites Gold Star Parents as honored guests. Each family will receive two complimentary tickets. Additional family members may request tickets using the form provided. Transportation assistance may be available from VFW or Auxiliary members.
📩 Submit names of the two Gold Star attendees per family to: Anne Philippon, State Auxiliary Treasurer
📬 12 Baldwin Drive, Bristol, CT 06010
❗Deadline: September 22
📞 Questions? Contact Mary Bango at 203-522-2157
Make checks payable to: VFW Auxiliary Dept. of CT (Do not include the cost of the two complimentary Gold Star tickets)
Sponsored by: The VFW Auxiliary Department of Connecticut
Hosted by:
Raymond T. Goldbach VFW Post 9460 (203) 377-0214
Location: 100 Veterans Blvd,
Stratford, CT 06615
Southington Apple Harvest Festival Craft Fair
Southington Apple Harvest Festival Craft Fair
🍎 CALLING ALL VENDORS! 🍂
The American Legion Auxiliary is excited to host our Apple Harvest Vendor Fair during two festive weekends:
📅 October 3–5 & October 10–12
📍 American Legion Post 72, Southington, CT
We’re looking for local crafters, artisans, small businesses, food vendors, and unique sellers to join us for one of the most popular events of the season—right in the heart of the Southington Apple Harvest Festival!
🌟 Great foot traffic and community exposure
🙌 Support a great cause
For vendor applications or more info:
email Marge Sunbury margesun1955@gmail.com.
Spots fill fast—secure yours today and be part of this fun fall tradition! 🍁🎉
Hosted by:
Southington American Legion Kiltonic Post 72
(860) 621-4243
Location:
Southington American Legion Kiltonic Post 72
64 Main St,
Southington, CT 06489
SAL Squadron 196 Presents A Night Of Comedy
SAL Squadron 196 Presents A Night Of Comedy
Saturday, October 4th
6PM – Doors | 7PM – Comedy Show
Raffle Prizes
Crowd Funding
$25 Tickets – Cash Bar – BYOF (bring your own food)
For tickets or additional info contact:
SAL SQUADRON 196
203-874-9822
Email: info@milfordctvets.org
or Michael Merola 203-385-2484 merolamichael@sbcglobal.net
Presented by: SAL Squadron 196 & Connecticut Comedy For Cash
Hosted by:
American Legion East Shore Post 196
(203) 874-9822
Location: 25 Merwin Ave, Milford, CT 06460
ALA Tag Sale, Vendor/Craft Fair & Grinder Sale
ALA Tag Sale, Vendor/Craft Fair & Grinder Sale
Tag Sale & Vendor/Craft Fair
Sunday October 5th 9-2
Grinder Sale
Sunday October 5th 10-2
Please support the American Legion Auxiliary with this delicious fundraiser!
To Order a Grinder: Forms at the Post or Contact Robin (860)-803-3014
For Vendor Registration Contact:
Miranda (860)-977-3591
Karen (860)-208-6444
Inside Space: $20
Outdoor Space: $10
Hosted by:
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 19
(860) 456-1404
Location: 339 Brick Top Rd, Windham, CT 06280
VFW Connecticut Testimonial Dinner 2025
VFW Connecticut Testimonial Dinner 2025
Join us on Oct. 5 for a special testimonial dinner to celebrate and honor our esteemed guests. The evening begins with a cash-bar reception at 2 PM, followed by a delicious family-style dinner at 3 PM. The menu features two entrées: roasted and hand-sliced sirloin and chicken marsala. Your meal also includes fresh baked rolls, a house garden salad, penne Bolognese, a vegetable, potato, and dessert, with coffee service and carafes of soda provided during dinner.
Semi-formal attire is encouraged, and guests are welcome to wear their medals.
Please note, ticket sales conclude on October 1, 2025. We look forward to seeing you there!
Hosted by:
(860) 594-6610
Location: Aqua Turf Club 556 Mulberry St,
Plantsville, CT 06479
A Night At The Museum USO Themed Swing Dance
A Night At The Museum USO Themed Swing Dance
Save the Date – Saturday, November 8th, 3:00–6:30 PM
A Night at the Museum: USO Swing Dance & WWII 80th Anniversary Commemoration
Join the West Haven Veterans Museum and the Hot Cat Jazz Band for a USO-themed swing dance celebrating the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII.
🕒 Schedule
- 3:00–4:00 PM: Beginner Swing Dance Lesson
- 4:15–6:15 PM: Live Music & Dancing
- Brief ceremony honoring WWII service between lesson and dance
🎟️ Extras
- Raffles (including a 50/50 raffle)
- Light refreshments and non-alcoholic drinks
- Discounted admission for advance RSVPs (details coming soon)
- 1940s attire encouraged but not required
📍 West Haven Veterans Museum, 30 Hood Terrace, West Haven, CT
All proceeds benefit the nonprofit museum’s mission to honor our veterans.
Hosted by:
West Haven Veterans Museum & Learning Center
(203) 934-1111
Location: 30 Hood Ter,
West Haven, CT 06516
