Edition #30, 1 December 2008

Hello, my name is Cynthia, a mermaid from the cool waters of New England. Thank you for visiting my collection of articles on coastal New England. Send your comments and questions to me at the address below.

Look for other articles in this series on the home page.

Each year, the Milford Chamber of Commerce sponsors the Summer Nights by Harbor Lights Concert Series. Most events are held on Friday evenings at 7pm and feature a variety of local bands from Big Band Swing to Country to Rock and Roll.

The Milford Oyster Festival is perhaps the most anticipated event of the year. Held the third Saturday of August, the festival draws over 50,000 visitors each year and features national performers, an arts and crafts fair, children's entertainment, canoe and kayak races, a classic car show, and plenty of food. Admission to the festival is free.

Milford offers five city beaches and one state park with a beach. All six beaches offer life guard services. Two of the city beaches offer public parking. These are Walnut Beach and Gulf Beach. Non-residents must pay a parking fee. Silver Beach at Silver Sands State Park features free parking and a wooden boardwalk.

Are you the creative type that doesn't mind getting your hands dirty? One of the most popular annual events is the Sand Castle Contest. Individuals, families, and groups try their hand at impressing the judges and possibly winning a trophy and cash prize. There is no entry fee, so bring your pail and shovel and have some fun. May I suggest a mermaid sculpture?

Milford is rich with history. The town played a vital role in the Revolutionary War when a road block was erected along the Milford section of the Boston Post Road, an important route between Boston and New York.

Buried treasure is said to exist on a small island just a mile off of Silver Sands Beach. It is a recognized fact that Captain Kidd and other pirates sailed and hid along the Connecticut coast. It’s no wonder that iron chests filled with loot are rumored to be buried on the land we now call Charles Island.

Located on the town Green at 117 N Broad Street, the Rainbow Gardens Restaurant gets high marks for its cozy atmosphere and unique menu. The cuisine includes European, American, and Vegetarian. The dress code is casual, and reservations are accepted.

Diners are also raving about the River Street Restaurant at 109 River Street. Enjoy the excellent Italian cuisine, great service, and home-like atmosphere. If you love Italian food, this is the place to be.

Seafood lovers will want to make their way to the Seven Seas Restaurant at 16 New Haven Avenue. Start with the clam chowder, then choose the fish and chips, the salmon, the lobster roll, or even the prime rib. You are sure to be impressed.

Learn more about Milford at www.milfordct.com and www.ci.milford.ct.us, and if you should see me in the water, be sure to wave!

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