Enjoy a Concert and Picnic on the Lawn at Goodspeed Opera House

This suggestion came from a member of the audience at Newington Library where I spoke last week about day tripping and picnicking in Connecticut. It was a welcome reminder about a favorite destination of mine, one that I had wanted to add to my day tripping and picnicking book, well, at least the picnicking part.

My idea was to include attending a play at Goodspeed Opera House under my category of Arts, Music & Theater with picnicking on the property before the performance. The only reason it did not make the cut was because I already had two chapters in East Haddam: Gillette Castle (Historic Homes & Gardens) and Devil’s Hopyard State Park (Fall Fun & Foliage) and I needed to find venues in other parts of the state.

Music on the River, sponsored by the East Haddam Parks & Recreation, presents a series of free concerts on the lawn at Goodspeed Opera House on Monday evenings from 6:30-8:30. Food and drink may be purchased at the Gelston House next door or bring a picnic dinner. Parking is available at Goodspeed parking lot behind the Gelston House. Check out this year’s lineup of talented groups and performers at www.easthaddam.org/music-on-the-river.

There are so many places in Connecticut like the venue above where we can enjoy a leisure-time activity and a picnic right at the same location. What is your interest? Whether it is hiking, biking, theater, water fun, boating, wineries, visiting historic homes and gardens, or even shopping, there is a destination that is perfect for you. Need suggestions? Let me know what you enjoy doing and I’ll give you some great ideas for getting out and enjoying the season.