CONNECTICUT

Friends, fun, food, and flowers come together once again at Halfinger Farms to celebrate another year of cultural and entertaining events provided by The Buttonwood Tree. This May, Buttonwood folks pay homage to their mothers and invite you to do the same. For a lively atmosphere, bluegrass music will set the stage at the farm’s lush and lovely valley setting surrounded by the rolling hills of Higganum. Live animals, face-painting, dancing, raffles, popcorn, and ice cream will make it the place to be for kids of all ages. Information: http://bit.ly/IEZAU3

The Madhatters Theatre Company has been an institution on the Connecticut shoreline for over 20 years. And now it is back at the Ivoryton Playhouse with the Disney favorite, The Aristocats. Based on the popular movie, the show is filled with wonderful characters, great songs and a story that everyone will love. Madame's jealous butler, Edgar, cat-naps Duchess and her Aristokittens and abandons them in the Parisian countryside. What's a cat to do? Luckily, Thomas O'Malley and his rag-tag bunch of Alley Cats come to their rescue. Information: www.ivorytonplayhouse.org

Meriden Fun Day will feature a family fun walk, entertainment, children's activities, food, craft vendors and community providers. Information: www.meridenffd.com

Connecticut's professional regional theatre, The Summer Theatre of New Canaan, presents "Wizard of Oz." This 70-minute adaptation of the classic story has been specifically designed for kids and young families. So click your heels together and join Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and the Lion as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road through the magical Land of Oz. Performances are on select Saturdays and Sundays – please visit www.STONC.org for specific dates and times. Information: www.STONC.org

When Pinkalicious Pinkerton eats one too many pink cupcakes, she catches a serious case of Pinkititis and turns pink from head to toe! Will her broccoli-eating brother be able to help cure her before it’s too late? Be sure to come dressed in your favorite pink clothes! And Pinkalicous Parties are always welcome! Performances are on select Saturdays and Sundays – please visit web site for specific dates and times. Information: www.STONC.org.

COMIX at Foxwoods features national club headliners, cutting-edge alternative comedy, musical variety acts, and top-ranked national comedians in the 4,000-seat MGM Grand Theater and the 1,400-seat Fox Theater. Information: 860-312-5050 or visit www.comixatfoxwoods.com. Upcoming shows:
Mother’s Day Big Apple Comix. May 13. Big Apple Comix brings some of New York’s best and brightest to Comix At Foxwoods for an unrivaled night of hilarity. 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance
Real Comix of New Jersey. May 16. Expect plenty of big hair, big accents, big personalities, and big laughs when “The Real Comix of New Jersey” fist-pumps its way to Comix At Foxwoods for a big night of comedy. Wherever New Jerseyites go, hilarity ensues. 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance.
Latino Kings of Comedy. May 18. Laugh out loud with the Latino Kings of Comedy at Comix At Foxwoods. Start the night with some fun-loving comedy by the region’s hottest Latino funny guys and then wrap up an evening to remember with a DJ dance party. 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance
Johnny Joyce & Comix Friends. May 30. Johnny has been doing comedy over 15 years and has local followers from all over the Northeast. Alongside Johnny this evening will be Mark Bedard and Hamilton Johnson. 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance
Dan Soder. May 31-June 2. Only five years into performing stand-up, comedian Dan Soder has established himself as a mainstay at top New York City comedy venues. Soder has also made his way into several well-known festivals, receiving rave reviews. May 31 at 8 p.m.; June 1 and 2 at 8 p.m. $25, $35, $50, $60
Jim Gaffigan. June 2. Jim Gaffigan has proven himself a major talent and his clever, quiet style has made him one of the top five most successful touring comedians in the country today. Gaffigan has appeared on many TV comedies and dramas ranging from HBO's cult hits "Flight of the Concords" and "Bored to Death" to dramatic roles in all three versions of "Law & Order." 8 p.m. $40, $50, and $60
Ari Shaffir. June 7-9. Ari Shaffir has become a regular at some of LA’s major comedy clubs such as The Comedy Store, The Improv, and The Laugh Factory. Shaffir is probably best known for “The Amazing Racist,” the ironically racist spin on the hit NBC show “The Amazing Race” that went viral on the Internet. Thursday and Friday, 8 p.m.; Saturday, 8 and 10:30 p.m. $20, $40. A two-drink minimum applies to all tickets. The show is for audiences age 21 and older.
Gary Gulman. June 14-16. Gulman began his career moonlighting as a comedian after working days as an accountant, but he soon left his accounting job to pursue a career as a stand-up comedian. Today Gulman is a young but hilariously successful comedian. Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Saturday, 10:30 p.m. $25, $35, $50, $60.
Sarah Silverman. July 6. Named “the most outrageously funny woman alive” by Rolling Stone, comedian Sarah Silverman is sure to keep the crowd roaring at her show at the MGM Grand Theater. Her repertoire includes everything from film and television, stand-up comedy, to iconic online videos, and she added author to this list when she released her book, The Bedwetter: Stories of Courage, Redemption, and Pee. 8 p.m. $40, $50 and $60.

For the last 15 years, Bill Maher has set the boundaries of where funny, political talk can go on American television. First on “Politically Incorrect” (Comedy Central, ABC, 1993-2002), and for the last seven years on HBO’s “Real Time,” Maher’s combination of unflinching honesty and big laughs have garnered him 21 Emmy nominations. Information and tickets: www.foxwoods.com

Meet and greet the newest additions to the animal families on Heckscher Farm at Spring on the Farm, Stamford Museum & Nature Center’s annual spring family festival. Learn how to shear sheep, pick up a plant at our plant sale, or take a hayride around our blossoming grounds. There will be face painting and many activities for the children. Event is held rain or shine. Information: www.stamfordmuseum.org.

Savor the fare of nearly 50 restaurants and specialty shops in New London's Historic Waterfront District. Snack and enjoy the flavors of downtown as you sample the District's best cuisine. Enjoy diverse musical performances by local musicians throughout downtown. 5:30-8 p.m. $20-$30. Children ages 5 and younger admitted free with paying adult. Information: http://bit.ly/HkmfoE

“Top Chef” producer and host Tom Colicchio hosts an unforgettable dining experience at Craftsteak at Foxwoods. The Dine Around event includes a nose-to-tail pork menu featuring food stations with dishes prepared by Tom Colicchio, Craftsteak Chef de Cuisine James Lynn, and Pastry Chef Lenora Alcee. Peterson Winery, Thomas Hooker Brewery, and Berkshire Mountain Distillers will be providing a premium selection of beverages. Information: www.foxwoods.com

Crack your first lobster claw of the season at Mystic Seaport’s butter-dribbling, shell-sucking, quintessentially New-England Lobster Days during Memorial Day Weekend. Lobsters in the rough are served by the Rotary Club of Mystic. Lobster platters are served picnic-style under Mystic Seaport’s open-air Boat Shed where diners can watch boats cruising on the Mystic River and enjoy music of the sea. Museum Admission is required to attend Lobster Days. Regular museum admission does not include price of food. Food and drink are purchased separately when on grounds. Information: www.mysticseaport.org/lobsterdays

This is a night of fine wine, a silent auction, and delicious bites from local caterers and restaurants. This year’s event will honor June Rosenthal, supporter, and Aquarion Water Company, premier partner. All proceeds from the event support SM&NC’s educational mission. Information: www.stamfordmuseum.org.

This three-day festival features live bands, national barbecue experts, cooking demos, rib contests. Host Mike Petit of NESN's Grillseekers hosts the event, filled with cooking demonstrations, live bands and Q&A sessions with Pitmaster Troy Black. Guests can also enjoy the beats and treats from DJ Chef Marc Weiss, shop the Sardilli Farmer's Market, ride the mechanical bull and watch Joey Jaws Chestnut battle in a rib eating contest. Information: http://bit.ly/HrC4Km

Stroll among 1,000 butterflies in this tented and flower-filled greenhouse, and study the stages of development of these beautiful creatures. This event is hosted by the Chelsea Botanical Gardens, which is 80 acres of prime, native land in Norwich's historic 400-acre Mohegan Park. Hart’s Greenhouse will be open for business throughout the event. Beverages and food from Mrs. B’s Convenient Cuisine will be available on Saturday and Sunday. Information: www.chelseabotanicalgardens.org

Showcasing the grounds and gardens of New Canaan’s premier properties. Held rain or shine. Be prepared to walk. No children, strollers, cameras or cell phones. Information: www.newcanaannature.org

Featuring fine wines, specialty food vendors, artisans, and live music, it is the perfect summer activity for both the amateur and sophisticated wine connoisseur. The festival enjoyed a record number of guests last year, and this year, organizers are promising more music, more excitement, good food, and lots of great local wines. Information: www.ctwine.com

The Webb-Deane-Stevens Revolutionary War Encampment features the Fifth Connecticut Regiment in full costume, with fascinating demonstrations of musket firing, 18th-century open-fire cookery, medicine, fashions, and music. Children can perform drills with wooden muskets prior to an attack by the British at 1 p.m. Tour the Webb House and see the renovated George Washington bedroom, where America’s most famous general stayed in 1781.

See the Fifth Connecticut Regiment in Colonial costume, with demonstrations of marching and musket firing, 18th-century open-fire cookery, and harp and dulcimer music. Children can to learn to march and perform drills with wooden muskets. The British attack at 1 p.m. A display of the medical techniques used in the late 1700s, and an exhibit of period clothing and fashions will be featured. While at the encampment, tour the Webb House and see the renovated George Washington bedroom. Information: www.webb-deane-stevens.org

Mystic Seaport observances will begin t Fishtown Chapel with the Roll of the Dead at 10:30 a.m. At noon, tolling steeple bells from the Greenmanville Church will invite visitors inside for a brief memorial service and hymns. At 1 p.m., a uniformed color guard playing a funeral dirge and citizens of 1876 Greenmanville will lead a solemn procession to Middle Wharf for the playing of Taps and a wreath laying upon the Mystic River. The day's observances conclude at 3 p.m. with a gathering in the Seamen's Friend Society Reading Room. Information: www.mysticseaport.org

This event is part of a national observance of the bicentennial of the War of 1812. There will be a parade of sail and U.S Navy ships, along wih a gigantic fireworks show, July 7, and ship visits July 7 and 8 in New London. It takes place along side of New London's Sailfest harbor celebration. Information and schedule of events: www.OpSail2012CT.org.

Exhibit takes its inspiration from three major paintings in the museum's collection, each defined by a distinct use of perspective. These works will be exhibited alongside rarely seen preparatory studies. Additional loans further explore Wyeth's use of windows and open doors to invite viewers to look into a distant realm. Exhibit open through July 22. Information: www.wadsworthatheneum.org

The first of two exhibitions celebrating this summer’s 30th Olympiad in London, The Games showcases modern sports in an interactive exhibition that premieres SuperBodies, a 3D animation and original video production. The Games will feature fun, hands-on exploratory stations and athletic gear including boxing gloves, javelins, and timing and other devices that record participants’ strength and reaction times. Exhibit open through August 12. Information: brucemuseum.org/

This exhibit, opening at the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, is a collaboration between oceanographic explorer Dr. Robert Ballard and Tim Delaney, a former Walt Disney designer. Bringing the legendary vessel’s timeless history to life, “Titanic – 12,450 Feet Below” captivates minds with a glowing iceberg that is cold to the touch, a bi-level adventure area inspired by Titanic’s engine room, hands-on experiences that unfold Titanic’s lingering mysteries, and modern deep-sea technology that led to Titanic’s eventual discovery. This permanent exhibit opens April 12, 2012. Information: www.mysticaquarium.org/titanic

A juried exhibition where participating artists will examine one of the most poignant moments in the history of modern technology and travel and offer their own interpretation of the RMS Titanic and the Edwardian era. Opening reception, April 26, from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Reservation required for reception. Information: www.lockwoodmathewsmansion.com

“What a blessing to have worked with someone as talented as Antje. With a voice like hers, and songs as good as these, a producer just tries to get out of the way, to do no harm, and to let the artist speak for herself.” – Richard Shindell. Friday Night Folk has been bringing folk music, old and new, to New London and Southeastern Connecticut since 1989. Information and reservations: http://fridaynightfolk.org.

Broadway star Annie Edgerton appearing in one-night only cabaret with reception. Information: www.shakesperience.org

Picturesque views set the stage for three days of hot Louisiana music. The festival takes place rain or shine with a covered dance pavilion and large wood dance floor. Two indoor and outdoor stages for continuous music. A large variety of food and beverage will be available. Artists in 2012 include Leroy Thomas & the Zydeco Roadrunners, Ruben Moreno & Re-Evolution Zydeco Band, The Revelers, Andre Thierry & Zydeco Magic, Sidewalk Zydeco, Jeffery Broussard & the Creole Cowboys Mitch Woods & the Rocket 88's, Harper, more. Information: www.bayounboogiefest.com

The Gang of Outlaws Tour will showcase three leaders of their respective genres – the legendary ZZ Top, rock phenoms 3 Doors Down, and country-rock star Gretchen Wilson. ZZ Top, “That Little Ol’ Band from Texas”, leads Gang of Outlaws Tour. ZZ Top will be partnering up with southern alternative rock’s hugely successful 3 Doors Down, straight out of Escatawpa, Mississippi. Rounding out the bill in fine-style is Gretchen Wilson. Her breakthrough hit, “Redneck Woman” is well known as the anthem of southern sass and femininity. Information: foxwoods.com

The BWB is charging full steam ahead, bringing disco to the people and spreading the word…Supercool! The Band’s show is distinguished by its blazing style, its multicolored costumes and its contagious energy! This 11 member group never leaves anything to chance! So come feel the good vibes and get down with the Boogie. Information: www.infinityhall.com

The sizable body of work accumulated by celebrated writer/artist Dar Williams is a continuing narrative of her life — what she’s experienced and what she’s observed during her years of intensive touring. Throughout her career, Williams has employed a reporter’s keen eye and a fiction writer’s feel for nuance in her music. Information: www.infinityhall.com 8 p.m. $40, $45, $60 860-542-5531

Four days of great music with Cajun cuisine, music workshops, and dance workshops with instruction on the Cajun 2 Step, Cajun Jitterbug, and Basic Zydeco from expert dance instructors and plenty of room to dance to the authentic Louisiana bands. The 2012 line-up will feature a terrific mix of Cajun & Zydeco dance bands. Six bands will be making the migration north from the southern bayous, with additional regional performers from throughout the northeast. Campsites available. Information: www.strawberrypark.net/cajun-zydeco-festival/

Catapulting onto the music scene with the release of her 1988, self-titled debut, Melissa Etheridge was invited to perform on the 1989 Grammy Awards. Using her characteristic bluesy vocal style and riveting stage presence, Etheridge quickly earned a strong following, built around memorable originals like “Bring Me Some Water,” “No Souvenirs,” and “Ain’t it Heavy,” for which she won a Grammy in 1992.

Dickey Betts, a founding member of the Allman Brothers Band, has one of the most distinctive voices in music today. Known as one of the most influential guitar players of all time, Betts has mastered a seamless style of lyrical melody and rhythm -- marrying country, jazz, blues, and rock into one unparalleled sound. Information: www.infinityhall.com

Over the past 20 years, Mulvey has pursued a restless, eclectic path as a writer and musician - immersing himself in Tin Pan Alley jazz, modern acoustic, poetry, narrative, and Americana stylings. Relentlessly touring as a headliner, he has shared the stage with luminaries such as Emmylou Harris, Richard Thompson, Ani DiFranco, Indigo Girls, and Greg Brown. Information: www.infinityhall.com

Grammy-winning artist Fiona Apple is widely recognized for her captivating and expressive performances. Apple made her debut at age 19 with 1996’s Tidal, which is certified triple Platinum. Rolling Stone named her “Artist of the Year” in 1997 and in 1998 she won a Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance for one of the album’s singles, “Criminal.” Her album “When the Pawn…”followed in 1999, and was hailed by Entertainment Weekly as “the work of an original.” Information: www.foxwoods.com.

This double bill provides two distinctive talents combined for a diverse rock-and-roll concert. Joe Cocker is an English Rock and Blues performer who first came to popularity in the 1960s. He is most known for his gritty voice and a host of classic hits including his number one hit song “Up Where We Belong.” The American rock band out of California, Huey Lewis & the News, hit the charts in the 1980s and early ‘90s, landing 19 top-ten singles on the Billboard charts. The band’s greatest success came in the form of its number-one album, “Sports.” Information and tickets: www.foxwoods.com

See migratory shorebirds, songbirds and bird of prey at Connecticut's premier birding site. Easy, level terrain, dress for the weather, bring binoculars. Information: www.theaudubonshop.com

This year's parade includes the Shriners Motor Patrol, classic army vehicles, jugglers, marching bands, Fife and Drum Corps, clowns, and much more. Information: www.new-britain.net

Come along for the madcap adventures of Auntie Mame and her adoring nephew. Surrounded by an eccentric cast of characters, she overcomes tragedy and sails through life without missing a fad or a dance step. Jerry Herman’s score is packed with favorites “Bosom Buddies,” “We Need a Little Christmas” and more. Brimming with optimism and zest, Mame will keep you laughing. Information: www.goodspeed.org/

Prepare to be swept away by this epic musical saga about John Newton, a rebellious slave trader, and the woman who never lost faith in him. While fighting the raging seas and his own despair, Newton’s life is suddenly transformed, igniting a quest to end the scourge of slavery. Based on a true story of the man who penned the world’s most recognizable song. Information: www.goodspeed.org

Connecticut's professional regional theatre, The Summer Theatre of New Canaan, presents "My Fair Lady." Based on Shaw’s play and Pascal's movie "Pygmalion," with book, music and lyrics by Lerner and Loewe, "My Fair Lady" is the standard by which all other Broadway shows are measured. Great family entertainment. Information: www.STONC.org

The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes to vibrant life in this delightful musical parable. Set to an engaging cornucopia of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to pop and rock 'n' roll, this Old Testament tale emerges both timely and timeless. Information: www.STONC.org

An immersive experience awaits children and parents as they walk through dramatic multimedia scenarios featuring animatronic dinosaur families of various species including Stegosaurus, T-Rex, Parasaurolophus and Apatosaurus. Children get a Pterodactyl’s eye view of these prehistoric families as they make their way through the Jurassic treehouse overlooking the dinosaurs. Information: www.thechildrensmuseumct.org

Making its East Coast debut, the Dinosaurs Unearthed exhibit includes 14 life-sized state-of-the-art animatronic dinosaurs that roar, stomp and move. Visitors can try their hand at exploring the kid’s dinosaur dig table, examine up to 23 fossil specimens, including an Allosaurus skull, and much more. Learn how these massive creatures were unearthed after millions of years and what scientists are doing to further their research on the fossils they find. This sensory experience exhibit is perfect for all ages. Exhibit open until September 2. Information: www.CTScienceCenter.org/movies.

Lime Rock Park’s traditional season opener will feature the revitalized SCCA Pro Racing Trans-Am Series. This is Detroit's big iron going toe-to-toe with each other while fending off the advances of Europe's best sports cars. Also racing are two of the best open-wheel formula series in North America, the F1600 Formula F Championship and the F2000 Championship. Scheduled for Sunday is the Royals Car Show with 201 of the tri-state area’s finest muscle cars, tuners, rods and antiques. Information: www.limerock.com/index.php