Good morning, Hartford.

Hartford’s Batterson Park reopened yesterday after a $10 million overhaul—featuring walking trails, picnic spots, a splash pad and canoe launch on its 260-acre property at the Farmington/New Britain border—with officials and Hartford Mayor Arulampalam cutting the ribbon.

YMCA Camp Sloper in Southington is preparing for an upcoming heat wave by scheduling water breaks, setting up shade stations, and using trained counselors to keep kids safe during the hottest days of the week.

Hartford is hosting Long Weekend, a five-day festival celebrating America’s 250th (today through July 5) with film, music, technology, and fireworks.

The festivities occur at iconic venues such as the Old State House and Bushnell Park.

Connecticut’s Treasurer’s Office will deposit $411.7 million into the Early Childhood Education Endowment+ raising its value above $700 million and supporting plans for affordable early care including a $10 million health insurance subsidy for the early childhood workforce.

An independent review of former CSCU interim chancellor John Maduko is underway and ahead of schedule, with eight interviews completed and five more planned this week.

Grand River Solutions has reviewed documents and will deliver a full report to the Board of Regents within three months.

Connecticut will receive 1.5 million eggs as part of a $3.3 million settlement to resolve alleged price-fixing by three major egg producers — plans are being developed to distribute the eggs to local food banks.

This settlement follows a joint state and federal investigation into illegal market practices.

Officials in the North End celebrated how a $170 million pilot program has improved local sewer systems and reduced flooding in basements.

The project — launched in 2023 and now benefiting over 5,000 homes — continues to upgrade aging infrastructure.

State officials shifted oversight of hospital facility fees from the disbanded Office of Health Strategy to the Department of Public Health, as hospitals face a July 1 deadline to report last year’s revenue.

Lawmakers aim to strengthen new fee restrictions (more details to come).

Gov. Lamont’s extreme hot weather protocol is in effect across Connecticut until Sunday, keeping cooling centers open for those seeking relief from temperatures nearing 100°F on Thursday and Friday.

Residents are advised to avoid sun exposure and stay hydrated — advice from Hartford Hospital.

Sweeney Todd

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Hartford Stage — Tickets start at $64 — Experience the thrill of Sweeney Todd in a captivating live performance.

Hartford Bonanza Celebration

12-4 p.m. — Bushnell Park — Free entry — Celebrate music, art, and community at this annual regional festival alongside the Connecticut Commemoration.

Artivity Summer Program

9 a.m. — The Bushnell Performing Arts Center — Check website for pricing — Creative summer program for young artists at one of Connecticut's finest venues.

American Vanity Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — The Webster — Tickets start at $62 — Experience the can't-miss live show of American Vanity in Hartford.

HANZEL LA H Live Concert

9 p.m. — United Banquet Hall — VIP packages available — Experience the urban music phenomenon HANZEL LA H along with special guest friends in a high-energy concert.

Petit Family Foundation 5K Road Race & Fitness Walk

7 a.m. — Plainville High School — Registration fee applies — Participate in a meaningful event honoring family legacy while enjoying fitness and community spirit.

Life. Be in it. Extravaganza

5-10 p.m. — Mill Pond Park — $20-$30 — Experience a vibrant local carnival with exciting rides, games, and delicious food.

ConnectiCon Multiday Pass

Over four days — Connecticut Convention Center — Pricing varies — Celebrate pop culture through comics, gaming, anime, and more with over 7,000 hours of programming.

44th Annual Life-Be In It Extravaganza

5:00 – 9:30 PM — Mill Pond Park — $25 for unlimited rides on July 17th — Experience a local carnival with exciting rides, games, and delicious food.

11th Annual Hartford Latino Fest 2026

12-7 p.m. — Dunkin' Park — Free admission — Celebrate the vibrant Latino culture with food, music, and community festivities.