After some very busy weeks, things feel quiet on the ground, while sound, light and color pop and sizzle across the sky.
Monday, July 1
At 7 p.m., Stella Blues celebrates “15 years of great music and good times” with no cover charge, “food provided” and two sets by the Rob Glassman Band plus “special guests.”
Tuesday, July 2
If you can’t make Thursday’s Fourth of July fireworks show in New Haven—or simply can’t get enough fireworks—other displays this week include Stratford’s tonight; West Haven’s, Meriden’s and Derby/Shelton’s tomorrow; and Orange’s and Madison’s on Friday.
Wednesday, July 3
At 4 p.m., Mitchell Library hosts a family-oriented screening of what I consider one of the greatest animated films of all time: An American Tail (1986). “Wear your PJs and bring a blanket if you want to get extra cozy.”
East Rock Brewing hosts a general trivia night—perfect for people who like to trivia without a net—at 6:30, while, at 7, a narrower but still wide-open movie trivia night plays out to the north at Hamden’s Best Video.
Thursday, July 4 - Independence Day
As is customary, New Haven’s annual fireworks display, starting at 9 p.m. above East Rock Park, lays claim to the holiday itself. In the hours before, revelers are likely to gather at the official viewing area on Wilbur Cross High School’s athletic fields, where food trucks are set to offer hot dogs, “Halal bowls,” “fried American fare,” ice cream, fried dough and more. (Note: It appears that “only blankets”—not, say, beach chairs—“will be allowed on the new turf” at Wilbur Cross, though football stands and grassy areas should be available.)
Friday, July 5
On its mezzanine level, the Beinecke Library marks the holiday with “full readings of the Declaration of Independence, [Frederick] Douglass’s [1852] oration, the 1848 Declaration of Sentiments, and excerpts from The Life of William Grimes.”
In conjunction with the town’s fireworks show, the Madison Beach Hotel hosts a first-come, first-served “Americana cookout” on its lawn and beach starting at 5:30 (gates open at 5) followed by live music until the ’works begin (sometime after 9).
Grammy-nominated horn player Hank Bilal, who plays the undersung trombone so naturally it feels like his voice, performs at 7—presumably with his band—at Jazzy’s Cabaret.
Saturday, July 6
Back at Jazzy’s, it’s an Independence Day celebration for the small African island nation of Cape Verde. At 5 p.m., “enjoy live music from the talented Kamansu Band, known for their infectious beats and energetic performances. After the show, stick around for the after party to dance the night away with fellow revelers.”
Space Ballroom in Hamden convenes bands from New Haven, Hartford and New Paltz for a prog rock show at 7. Headlining the bill are Mile Marker Zero, followed by Head With Wings, Involute and Shagohod.
Written and photographed by Dan Mims. Image features a moment from a past New Haven fireworks show. Readers are encouraged to verify times, locations, prices and other details before attending events.
