Though school is still out, it is possible to continue learning – and have fun while you’re doing it! Take advantage of the many events in Connecticut this weekend that will prove you really can learn something new every day. On Saturday, head to Old New-Gate Prison in East Granby to Meet the Cobbler. A costumed interpreter will demonstrate how prisoners once made shoes to cover prison expenses. At Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport, learn about non-traditional, free-flight birds at the "Fly Me to the Zoo" Bird Show Friday through Sunday. For a quick history lesson, head to the Ivoryton Playhouse to witness the rise of Argentina’s most famous first lady, Eva Peron, during a production of “Evita.” Spend quality time with loved ones while learning about barnyard animals, seeing educational exhibits and demonstrations and checking out historical displays at one of three agricultural fairs on Friday through Sunday: the Chester Fair at Chester Fairgrounds, the Country Fair at Terryville Fairgrounds or the Brooklyn Fair at Brooklyn Fairgrounds. End the weekend on Sunday with an adventure at Fort Hill Farms in Thompson. Kids can navigate the educational corn maze, or “Moo Maze,” for free during Kiddy Day at the Maze Adventure.

More events that will teach you a thing or two!

Italian Festival , Monroe, (203) 261-6404
Understand Italian culture at this traditional festival, featuring live entertainment, rides, games, raffles, and, of course, great Italian food and pastries. Get the full cultural experience Wednesday and Thursday from 6 to 10:30 p.m., Friday from 6 to 11 p.m. and Saturday from 5 to 11 p.m. at St. Jude Church.

Schemitzun , North Stonington, (800) 224-CORN
Experience an incredible cultural festival featuring Native American song and dance, an authentic Pequot Village, rodeo and much more. Schemitzun takes place Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. at 91 Wintechog Hill Road.

Marine Life Study Cruises , Norwalk, (203) 852-0700
Discover Long Island Sound’s marine life in its natural habitat on a 2.5-hour cruise. Experience sea life firsthand, and get a close encounter with the on-board touch tank. Cruises depart daily from the Maritime Aquarium at 1 p.m. Call for ticket information.

These highlights represent just a sampling of the many exciting events taking place across Connecticut this weekend. For more information about these and other entertaining activities, click on Specials and/or Events. If you are a Connecticut resident, remember to take advantage of the Staycation Destination program. Choose from more than 370 participating attractions, lodgings properties, restaurant and shops offering discounts and special values.

SHARON
July 6 –September 25 – Blueberry Festival, Ellsworth Hill Orchard & Berry Farm, 461 Cornwall Bridge Road, Sharon, CT. Time: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Get outdoors and enjoy what remains of summer at the Ellsworth Hill Orchard and Berry Farm. Pick your own blueberries, purchase homemade baked goods or explore the gardens. Admission: Call for details. Phone: (860) 364-0099.

NORWALK
Through September 26 – Clambakes at Sheffield Island, Departs from Seaport Dock, Washington and Water Streets, Norwalk, CT. Time: Thursdays at 6 p.m. Enjoy an outdoor feast of lobster, chicken or beef next to the historic Sheffield Island lighthouse. Admission: $55 per person, $75 for a lobster dinner. Phone: (203) 838-9444.

NEW HAVEN
August 15-23 – Pilot Pen Men’s and Women’s Championships, Connecticut Tennis Center at Yale, 45 Yale Avenue, New Haven, CT. Time: Call for schedule. Find out what it takes to be an all-star tennis player at this incredible sporting event, featuring some of the top players from around the world. Admission: Call for details. Phone: (888) 99-PILOT.

WESTBROOK
August 23 – Westbrook Drum Corps Muster, Ted Lane Field, Westbrook, CT. Time: Parade at 11 a.m., with muster following. Watch the fife and drum corps parade and muster, featuring more than 50 national and international corps. Admission: Free. Phone: (860) 399-6436.