Campfire Season, S’mores Day and Unique Camping Trips

1. According to Weather.com, the forecast for Ellington and Somers calls for a high of  86°F under partly-cloudy skies. There will be a 20-percent chance of rain. The overnight low will be 64°F with a 30-percent chance of isolated thunder storms beginning around 9 p.m. 

2. Camping season is still in full swing, and to remind us all about the number of benefits gained by children who enjoy the outdoors, as well as tips from the National Wildlife Federation, take a look at this by Patch Editor . Here you will also read about area campgrounds, how to transform your yard into a wooded campsite, campfire stories and what to pack for a camping trip. 

3. If you’re at a campfire this summer, chances are there will be sticky, gooey S’mores. According to www.CandyUSA.com, today, August 10, is S’mores Day, so what better way to celebrate this tasty summer treat than with a few facts about their origins. First, it is believed that the "S’more" dates back to the 1920s, when the Campfire Girls came up with the idea. It is said that the Girl Scouts soon caught on, and the treat quickly became a campfire staple. The name “S’more” is believed to have come from children, who proclaimed that they wanted “some more” of them.

4. Keeping with this campfire theme, there are a couple events coming up that may call for some marshmallows.  is taking place on Friday night, August 12, at Northwest Park in Windsor. The park invites you and your family to come learn about bats and view them up close and personal. During the 2-hour event, which begins at 7, you'll venture outside, enjoy a few stories, a “nature moment” and the traditional roasting of marshmallows, all while you’re gathered around a glowing campfire. Bring a blanket, and be sure to visit www.townofwindsorct.com for more details and to register. Also visit Northwest Park online for details.

5. Another overnight camping event for the family, which is coming up on September 23, takes place at Mystic Aquarium. For anyone who’s ever wondered what the aquarium's animals do at night, bring your sleeping bag, pillow and a flashlight and find out. This family overnight includes games, crafts, tours, snacks and get a great opportunity to view the beluga whales and other creatures at night. Folks will be able to pick a place to sleep next to the circling sharks, clownfish or even octopus. A continental breakfast is provided in the morning. Visit this link for pricing information and to register.