ICYMI: Our top 20 most visited articles of 2024
WOW! I cannot express what 2024 meant to us here at Finding Connecticut. From conversations to photography to reviews, 2024 kept us busy and our creativity flowing. We discovered so many great opportunities in Connecticut this year that I couldn’t just do the top five. Here are our top 20 most visited posts of 2024.
Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen to film at Foxwoods
Foxwoods Resort Casino, one of the world’s largest and most recognized resort casinos in America, today announced an exclusive partnership with ITV America to film seasons 23 and 24 of Gordon Ramsay hit culinary competition series HELL’S KITCHEN.
The Soundside Music Festival in Seaside Park, Bridgeport, Connecticut, was a weekend to remember, despite the wildly different weather conditions across both days and losing one of the most anticipated performers – The Foo Fighters. Nonetheless, with a remaining stellar lineup of artists, the approximately 35,000 fans were treated to an eclectic mix of genres, styles, and unforgettable performances.
Lainey Wilson proved Country is Cool again in Bridgeport
June 28th, 2024 Lainey Wilson graced Bridgeport, CT’s Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater with the Country’s Cool Again Tour. The starlet’s career has catapulted the past few years including wins for both Best Country Album and Best Country Duo/Group Performance at the 2024 Grammys. Wilson hails from Baskin, LA, and true to her country roots she sings about her love of Jesus, a smooth glass of Whiskey, and heartbreak. Most of her set focused on singles from her 2022 album “Bell Bottom Country” which peaked at number 9 on BIllboard’s Top Country Albums back in 2023.
Interview: 5 Questions with Jason Mraz
Concert Review: Avril Lavigne at Xfinity Theater
After over 20 years of rocking out across stages worldwide, Avril Lavigne is back having her own Era’s tour moment on her Greatist Hits Tour. Equipped with her beloved, chart-topping catalog featuring hits like, “Sk8ter Boi,” “Girlfriend,” and “Complicated,” Avril is more than ready to show audiences how the shelf life of her discography has stood 2 decades strong since beginning her career at 16. Stopping at the illustrious Xfinity Theater in Hartford, Connecticut, this tour gives Lavigne and her fans the chance to embrace nostalgia and reconnect with the music that may have shaped some of the most important moments of their lives. Dawning their crafty black and pink Avril-themed outfits and color-dyed hair, fans of all ages filed into the theater excited to dance the night away to their favorite hits from Avril.
Totally Tubular Festival: The 80’s Revival We Needed
Every once in a while we all wish we could relive a certain moment in time, good or bad. The Totally Tubular Festival at the Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater in Bridgeport was a welcomed blast from the past, turning an ordinary hot summer day into an unforgettable ’80s extravaganza! With the venue lights emulating pink and blue neon lights and vintage tunes blaring, the amphitheater transformed into a time machine, whisking us back to an era of big hair, synth-pop, and infectious energy.
Concert Review: UB40 – A Reggae Infused Legend
UB40’s concert at Foxwoods Casino was a night to remember!
The opening act was the talented indie-rock band: Fast Land Animals. They brought a different vibe from what many of the UB40 fans were expecting that night. And while they sounded great, the crowd was clearly waiting for the unmistakable reggae-infused sound of UB40.
About once a month, my family of seven orders takeout from a local CT eatery. We sit together, eating and talking about the day. This moment of bonding seems to only come at mealtimes, and it is easier when none of us have done the cooking. This month, we decided to try Jersey Mike’s in Wilton (35 Danbury Rd, Wilton, CT 06897) for our family takeout night, and it didn’t disappoint!
Mohegan Sun Arena hosts Tony Orlando’s historic final performance
On Friday, March 22nd Mohegan Sun Arena hosted the final performance of music icon Tony Orlando’s career, marking the end of an era for the legendary artist.
Camping under the Connecticut stars
Last month, my family and I decided to escape the busyness of everyday life and spend some quality time together camping at Housatonic Meadows State Park in Connecticut. Winding down the summer in the cool August air with early signs of autumn starting to make their presence felt made for the perfect setting for a few days outdoors with my kids and their significant others – ten of us in total. There’s something special about unplugging and being surrounded by nature that creates an atmosphere of closeness, and Housatonic Meadows did not disappoint.
National Nachos Day is November 6 and nachopreneur Alex P. Taylor is celebrating in grand style with the release of his “Most Unique and Creative Nachos in Every State” list. Nicknamed “The Nacho King of Connecticut,” upon sharing his love for all things layered with cheesy, meaty, spicy, creamy, fresh, and creative goodness on local and national media outlets, including Great Day Connecticut, Connecticut’s Morning Buzz, FOX 61, WTNH’s This Week in Connecticut, HBO’s Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, and even on the Bravo reality show Below Deck where the yacht’s private chef and Alex teamed up to create octopus nachos, Alex has been showcasing original nacho recipes from his upcoming cookbook, Totally Nachrageous: Lessons in Life and Nachos.
Family Review: Haven Hot Chicken
Our first pick was Haven Hot Chicken in Norwalk, at 596 Westport Ave. The staff at this location were super accommodating and friendly. Haven Hot Chicken is clearly a popular place. There weren’t many in-house dining groups, but a steady stream of takeout orders while we were there. The very happy staff took our order and had us out the door in no time. The packaging was sturdy, keeping the food warm and intact during the ride home.
Music & Industry Restores South Norwalk Nightlife
AGW SONO Partners‘ flourishing South Norwalk, CT portfolio recently announced the opening of one of the most unique venues to present itself since South Norwalk first made its mark (circa 1990) as a vibrant destination for all things dining, entertainment, retail, and lifestyle. Music & Industry, an original concept by restauranteur Jody Pennette, opened at 136 Washington St. on November 15th.
Review: Keksi is a taste of excellence
In the world of mail-order treats, Keksi Cookies stands out as a beacon of delectable indulgence and exceptional service. Having recently sampled their offerings, I can confidently say that Keksi has set a new standard for gourmet cookies delivered right to your doorstep.
Photos: Soundside Music Festival Day 2
Soundside Music Festival was September 28-29, 2024. These photos are from September 20. Artists include Norah Jones, Teddy Swims, The Bleachers, Greta Van Fleet, and Jack White.
Restaurant Review: Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse – another winner from a man who knows how to win
Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse at Mohegan Sun Casino and Resort in Uncasville CT, offers a dining experience that combines elegance with a touch of sports legend charm. The six-time NBA Champion, five-time M.V.P., and two-time Olympic Gold Medalist, Mr. 32, likes his steaks and has created a restaurant as only he could. It’s amazing!
Photos: Lainey Wilson at Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater
Lainey Wilson performed at Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater in Bridgeport on Friday, June 28, 2024. Photos by Natalie Colon
Restaurant Review: TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge – An Amazing Dining Experience
It is hard to overstate the amazing shops, restaurants, and entertainment Mohegan Sun has somehow gathered under one roof. This past weekend was my very first visit to this beautiful location in the heart of Uncasville, CT – and it did not disappoint. Among the most amazing places I had the opportunity to visit was TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge.
Stevie Nicks at Mohegan Sun Arena
On a balmy summer night at the Mohegan Sun Arena, fans of all ages gathered to witness a living legend in action: Stevie Nicks. From the moment she took the stage, the atmosphere was electric, filled with anticipation and reverence for the Queen of Rock.
5 questions with Sex and the City creator Candace Bushnell
Carrie Bradshaw is one of the most influential characters in television history. From her love of fashion, storytelling, not to mention her relationships with her unforgettable girlfriends and the epic love story with Big that kept us on all our toes for years. What’s the story behind Carrie’s inspiration, the lunches, the parties, and the shoes?
PS: Keep an eye out for 2025 – we have already found some great things to share
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Finding Connecticut Gift & Event Guide
Did you miss our annual Connecticut Gift & Event guide post? You can read it here. It has everything to Connecticut merch to Connecticut based authors and books to over 50+ events around the Connecticut.
OnWashington gift card
One card, multiple choices! The gift that’s a sure thing-the OnWashington Gift Card, a community-based digital gift card that is a wonderful way to support local small businesses. Consumers can purchase an OnWashington E-Card to send as a gift which can be used at participating restaurants, shops, and salons that are part of AGW SONO Partners’ extensive Washington Street Historic District portfolio. With the OnWashington Gift Card, purchasers can write a personal message and send it to family, friends, and colleagues via email, text, or physical copy. All digital and always available on your phone, recipients can choose to spend it at any participating merchant or mix it up and spend flexibly at multiple locations. Current OnWashington Gift Card merchants include: Eco Evolution, Cheese & Bread, Salon Etre, Tablao Wine Bar, Oishi Sushi & Izakaya, Jean’s Closet, Mecha, Donovan’s, Lazy Sister, Music & Industry, Pokemoto, Himalaya (2025), and more to come! Click here to purchase.
Connecticut Merch
Looking for Connecticut merch? Think of us this holiday season. All proceeds help us grow Finding Connecticut.
Our popular collections 203 • Two o’ Three • 860 • Eight Six O’ • I Really Really Miss Connecticut • Just a kid from Connecticut • Pride • Love & Live • Connecticut Fall
We also have merch by town, not all towns are available yet. You can always contact us and we can order the design you are looking for.
Save 10% on all products with promo code Post10. Always free shipping
Gourmet Cookies
Indulge in Keksi gourmet cookies, featuring classic flavors such as chocolate chip and snickerdoodle, as well as new monthly creations. Made with the highest quality ingredients, each bite is a delicious treat. Perfect for any cookie lover! Save 20% with code CONNECTICUT24
Movie showtimes at Prospector Theater
Looking to see a movie. Click here for showtimes
Let’s create with Victory Designs
Need help with your creative needs? Our team has 20+ years of experience with Adobe, Shopify, and WordPress, and we offer affordable graphic design and web services. Let Victory Designs assist you with bringing your ideas to life.
Connecticut business owners:
Are you a local business owner in Connecticut looking to boost your visibility and reach more customers? Look no further! Our platform provides a unique opportunity to showcase your business to an engaged audience of people who love and live in Connecticut. By partnering with us, you can reach potential customers who are actively seeking things to do, places to dine, and local merchants and service providers to support. Don’t miss out on this chance to grow your business and connect with the local community!
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