Southern CT 2024-25

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle

Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, bringing joy and connection to people worldwide. But have you ever wondered why we love to chuckle so much? In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating science of laughter, the benefits it brings, and why it’s such a fundamental part of the human experience.

neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This chemical rush is why we often feel so good after a hearty laugh.

The Social Glue: Connecting Through Chuckles

The Biology of Laughter: A Brainy Affair

When you laugh, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals. Endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, flood your system, creating a sense of euphoria and reducing stress. Laughter also triggers the release of dopamine, a

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Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it’s also a powerful social tool. Evolutionary scientists believe that laughter evolved as a way for early humans to bond and strengthen social bonds.

When we laugh with others, it signals trust and positive interaction, reinforcing social connections.

The Laughter Contagion: Yawns Are Out, Laughter Is In

You’ve probably experienced

Restaurants

Bridge House Restaurant

Gastropub serving sophisticated versions of American pub fare, including steak & fish dishes.

49 Bridgeport Ave, Milford, CT 06460

Phone: (203) 878-2800 | Web: milfordbridgehouse.com

Archie Moore’s Bar & Restaurant

Celebrated for Buffalo wings, this area chain also offers a full menu of bar food in basic pub digs.

39 N Main St, Wallingford, CT 06492

Phone: (203) 265-7100 | Web: archiemoores.com

Rosy Tomorrow’s

Eclectic comfort foods & live entertainment in an eccentric space packed with quirky artifacts.

15 Old Mill Plain Rd, Danbury, CT 06811

Phone: (203) 743-5845 | Web: rosytomorrows.com

Have a restaurant you’d like us to feature?

Send in a recommendation for your favorite restaurant to be added to our list. Be sure to mention why you think they are worthy of being featured and include a link to their website.

Mancuso’s Restaurant & Bar

Italian restaurant & bar with patio seating & a menu of hearty homestyle dishes.

601 Kings Hwy E, Fairfield, CT 06825

Galaxy Diner-Restaurant

Old-fashioned operation since 1981 doling out hearty portions of American, Italian & Greek classics.

4241 Main St, Bridgeport, CT 06606

Pop’s Family Restaurant

Modern family-run eatery offering a breakfast-to-dinner menu of classic American & Greek dishes.

134 Old Gate Ln, Milford, CT 06460

olea Mediterranean fare including Spanish tapas is served in a modern environment with a bar.

39 High St, New Haven, CT 06510

Shell & Bones Oyster Bar & Grill

Seafood eatery perched on New Haven Harbor offering steaks, water views & a seasonal deck.

100 S Water St, New Haven, CT 06519

Spartan Restaurant and Bar

Basic, booth-lined spot with regular & pan pizzas, pub food, sandwiches & Italian & Greek items.

970 Chase Pkwy, Waterbury, CT 06708

Laskara Restaurant Greece, Italy & Spain are all represented on the Mediterranean menu at this easygoing area staple.

295 Parker Farms Rd, Wallingford, CT 06492

Pacifico

Nuevo-Latino seafood, tapas & popular mojitos in a colorful, two-story space with a lively bar.

220 College St, New Haven, CT 06510

EVENTS 2024

APR 26

2024 Connecticut Water Glow Festival

The Water Glow Festival will be held on April 26-27, 2024. There will be vendor shopping, food trucks, drinks and much more. The Wolcott fairgrounds will become a lighted wonderland as many lanterns will float in memory of loved ones. Learn more at ctwaterglowfestival.com.

Apr 30

HADESTOWN

HADESTOWN intertwines two mythic tales — that of young dreamers

Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — as it invites you on a hell-raising journey to the underworld and back. Mitchell’s beguiling melodies and Chavkin’s poetic imagination pit industry against nature, doubt against faith, and fear against love. Performed by a vibrant ensemble of actors, dancers and singers, HADESTOWN is a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience that grabs you and never lets go. Learn more at visitnewhaven.com.

May 2

NHSO: Every New Day

In his grand finale concert as music director, Alasdair Neale pairs two pieces emblematic of his tenure with the NHSO: Quinn Mason’s brand-new piano concerto and a cherished classic by British composer Edward Elgar. Learn more at visitnewhaven.com.

EVENTS 2024

MAY 11

Dogwood Festival

It’s more than just gorgeous spring blooms. Check out food trucks, live music, a vendor fair, children’s crafts, the Blossom Café and Blossom Bakery, raffles, a plant and garden boutique, and more. Visit greenfieldhillchurch.com.

JUN 1

Middletown PrideFEST

Middletown PrideFEST is the State of Connecticut’s largest pride event held in downtown Middletown, Connecticut, on the first Saturday of June. PrideFEST is an all afternoon street festival that includes family friendly fun and activities for all ages. PrideFEST consists of the Middletown Pride March, Pride Rally, two Pride Showcase Concerts, and a Tea Dance. Learn more at middletownpride.org.

JUN 14

International Festival of Arts & Ideas

For two weeks in June, the world’s freshest ideas come to Connecticut. Come enjoy performing arts, lectures, and conversations with influential artists and thinkers. Learn more at artidea.org.

JUL 20

The Roost Music Festival

This is not your usual music festival. Instead, it’s an “intimate celebration of food, music and community” at a beautiful farm, carefully curated by local taste-makers. Learn more at theroostfestival.com.

JUL 27

New England Taco Festival

Discover the excitement and energy of our unforgettable New England Taco Festival. Sample from thousands of taco options! Plus expect Lucha libre wrestling, mechanical bull riding, donkey rides, bounce houses, mariachi bands, and more. Learn more at newenglandtacofestival.com

the phenomenon of contagious laughter. When someone near you starts laughing, you can’t help but join in, even if you’re not sure what’s so funny.

cortisol, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

This contagious nature of laugh ter is thought to be linked to our mirror neuron system, which activates when we observe someone else’s actions or emotions. In essence, when we see or hear laughter, our brains mimic it, compelling us to laugh along.

The Health Benefits: A Chuckle a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the ways laughter can boost your well-being:

Stress Reduction: Laugh ter reduces the production of stress hormones like

Pain Relief: Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which can temporarily alleviate pain and discomfort.

Improved Immunity: Regular laughter has been linked to enhanced immune function, helping the body fight off illnesses.

Better Mood: Laughter can elevate mood and combat feelings of depression by increasing the release of dopamine.

Strengthened Relationships: Sharing laughs with friends and loved ones fosters stronger social

bonds and increases feelings of connectedness.

The Laughter Prescription: Make Time for Chuckles

Incorporating laughter into your daily life is a simple yet effective way to improve your well-being. Here are some tips to get your daily dose of giggles:

Watch Comedy: Enjoy a funny movie, stand-up comedy show, or your favorite sitcom to trigger laughter.

Spend

Time with Funny

Friends:

Surround yourself with peo ple who have a good sense of humor and enjoy sharing laughter.

Laughter

Find Humor in Everyday Life:

Seek out the humor in everyday situations and don’t take life too seriously.

Share Funny Stories: Share funny anecdotes and jokes with friends and family to create laughter-filled moments.

Embrace the Chuckles

Laughter is a powerful and joyful force in our lives. It connects us, reduces stress, and brings a myriad of health

Yoga: Join a laughter yoga class or practice laughter exercises at home to reap the benefits of intentional laughter.

So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of hearty laughter, remember that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your brain and body a much-needed boost.

Embrace the chuckles, share a joke, and let laughter light up your life. After all, as the saying goes, laughter truly is the best medicine!

EVENTS 2024

AUG TBD

Hey Stamford! Food Festival

This food festival is so epic, it can’t be contained to one weekend. Over the course of two, explore more than 40 food vendors, a beer garden, kid’s activities and more. Learn more at heystamfordfoodfest.com.

AUG 10

Mystic Outdoor Art Festival

This juried art show and showcase for over 200 artists from around the country offers more than two miles of incredible artworks in a beautiful setting. And did we mention it’s free? Learn more at mysticchamber.org.

AUG 17

50th Annual Milford Oyster Festival

The Milford Oyster Festival will have 30,000 oysters! All oysters harvested in Milford waters by Briarpatch Enterprises, Inc. Try the sweet taste of Milford oysters and enjoy them with a craft beer or premium wine. Learn more at milfordoysterfestival.com.

SEP TBD

Sound On Sound Music Festival

“Music Festival” doesn’t begin to describe this event, offering two stages, more than 20 world-class bands, local eateries and craft breweries — all on the shores of Long Island Sound. Learn more at soundonsoundct.com.

OCT 1

The Connecticut Renaissance Faire®

Step back in time to a 16th-century harvest festival at Connecticut Renaissance Faire’s 26th anniversary celebration! Since 1999, we’ve been the gateway to a magical world where you can shop in New England’s largest Medieval Marketplace, feast on juicy turkey legs and craft beers, and enjoy hilarious comedy and thrilling acrobatics on 12 stages. Learn more at ctfaire.com.

Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:

1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~ In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.

2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~ Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,

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cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.

3. India: Samosas ~

Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.

4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~

Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.

5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~

Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.

6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~

Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.

7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.

8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.

Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

NEW HAVEN PRIDE CENTER

he mission of the New Haven Pride Center is to provide educational, cultural and social enrichment programming and LGBTQ+ competent and trauma-informed services for the LGBTQ+ community to make a positive contribution to the entire community of Greater New Haven and Connecticut.

NEWHAVENPRIDECENTER.ORG | (203) 387-2252

STONEWALL SPEAKERS

Stonewall Speakers, a program of the Connecticut Stonewall Foundation, Inc., is an all-volunteer speaker’s bureau comprised of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, pansexual, queer people and their allies. Our speakers give their hearts, time and travel expenses to help eliminate hate and promote understanding.

STONEWALLSPEAKERS.ORG | (860) 523-9799

FAITH TAPESTRY COMMUNITY CHURCH

Faith Tapestry Community Church is a multicultural gathering of LGBTQ+ seekers, woven together by faith and Love. We are an independent church.

FAITHTAPESTRY.ORG

QUEER UNITY EMPOWERMENT SUPPORT TEAM

The Queer Unity Empowerment Support Team (QUEST), established in 2015, is a community-based collaborative formed to create healthy, inclusive and safe spaces for members of the LGBT+ community, and their allies, in the Greater Waterbury area, fostering meaningful relationships, learning and joy. QUESTCT.COM

PARTNERS CAFE

Open seven days a week, Partners is proud to be a staple in New Haven night life and culture since 1974. Come on down and celebrate pride in our diverse and friendly atmosphere. We welcome all! PARTNERSNEWHAVEN.COM | (203) 776-1014

EVENTS 2024-25

NOV TBD

Christmas in CT – A Holiday Gift Expo

Kick off the holidays early and explore 200+ vendors, crafts, small businesses, meet Santa and the Grinch, dance to holiday music, enjoy food trucks, and more. Learn more at ctvisit.com.

DEC 8

Holiday Bazaar

Expect to find unique holiday gifts for your family and friends. Featured vendors from the Open Air Market will be selling their handmade products. Come and shop for the holidays! Enjoy lunch and hot beverages in the bar provided by David Alan Catering. Learn more at wadsworthmansion.com.

JAN TBD

Sun Wine & Food Fest

Sun Wine & Food Fest is your chance to sip and sample your way through endless vintages and signature dishes, incredible showcases and tastings during a four-day affair across the Uncas Ballroom, Earth Expo & Convention Center, and restaurants across the property. From elegant whites to robust reds, the Sun Wine & Food Fest offers a diverse palette that caters to every preference! Learn more at mohegansun.com.

FEB TBD

LunarFest

Lunarfest is Connecticut’s largest annual Lunar New Year celebration. Featuring a traditional lion dance troupe, local artists, and local organizations, the annual festivities are full of learning, culture, arts, and fun. Learn more at visitnewhaven.com.