Dance, Sing and Swing Your Way Into Summer

1. According to Weather.com, the Tolland forecast calls for lots of sunshine and a high of 79˚F. Tonight, skies will be clear with a low of 54˚F.

2. Get into the Fourth of July spirit early. The Tolland Public Library is hosting a special July 4th story time for children ages 2 to 8 called The event is free and runs from 6:30-7:15 p.m.

Or, you could celebrate with fireworks, music and games at the event in Vernon. Jointly coordinated by the Rockville Community Alliance and the Vernon Parks & Recreation Department, the festivities will take place in both downtown Rockville and Henry Park.

Before the fireworks start at 9:40 p.m., enjoy concerts, dance performances, face painting, carnival-type games, and a watermelon-eating contest. Make sure to decorate your bikes, wagons and strollers to take part in the Tenth-Annual Push, Pedal, Pull, Patriotic Parade. The fun begins at 6 p.m. Visit the Rockville Web site for more information.

3. Give back to the arts at the at the Arch Street Tavern at 85 Arch St. in Hartford. Bassist Ace Livingston and his quartet will provide live music. Admission costs $20 at the door and $10 in advance. The benefit starts at 7 p.m.

4. Before treating your ears to the jazz benefit, explore the wonders of The William Benton Museum of Art at the University of Connecticut. A museum education department member will lecture on several of the works displayed at the summer exhibits and lead a discussion concerning the works. The lecture will take place from 12:15-1 p.m. For more information, contact Diane Lewis at 860-486-1705.

5. Children’s entertainer Amy Rogell will perform at the at 3:30 p.m. and at Mary Cheney Library at 6:30 p.m. in Manchester. Rogell performs and holds workshops throughout the tri-state area focusing on creative movement. Call 860-645-0577 or 860-643-6892 for more information.