The fun is far from over this summer as downtowns and venues around the region host monthly and annual festivals throughout the summer. First Fridays, Third Thursdays, arts festivals, and special town celebrations continue into September. Explore a new town and enjoy food, music, games and fun!
62nd Annual Mystic Outdoor Art Festival
August 10 & 11, Mystic
A juried art show with over 230 artists, the festival serves an audience of discriminating art enthusiasts, as well as weekend visitors and residents from surrounding communities including Groton, New London, Waterford, and southern Rhode Island. The Mystic Outdoor Art Festival (MOAF) is free of charge, and features activities and artwork for all ages to enjoy, including a Children’s Art Park.
New London County Food Truck & Open Air Market Festival
August 10, Uncasville
Southeastern Connecticut’s Premiere Food Truck & Open Air Market Festival, held at Saint Bernard School, with 25+ of New England’s largest and best food trucks, unique and home crafted goods galore. Dine with us, shop with us, dance with us, and enjoy with us.
Willimantic 3rd Thursday Streetfest
August 15 & September 19, Willimantic
Main Street Willimantic welcomes you to join in the festivities amid a background of musical, theatrical, visual, and olfactory delights. Five stages simultaneously host a wide variety of music and entertainment while over 100 local and regional crafters and vendors showcase the wealth of goods produced in Connecticut. Visit the Chamber at the Community Concierge booth on August 15.
Photo credit: Mohegan Wigwam Festival
Mohegan Wigwam Festival
August 17 & 18, Uncasville
The public is invited to join the Mohegan Tribe at their annual Mohegan Wigwam Festival at Fort Shantok, Village of Uncas. Learn more about Mohegan culture and traditions including Native American crafts, foods, dancing and drumming.
New London Pride Festival
August 24, New London
Held at Ocean Beach, activities include workshops, demonstrations, live entertainment, youth programs and use of the park’s facilities. At the Diva Center, have your hair and nails done, you can even put on wigs and costumes.
Schemitzun Feast of Green Corn and Dance
August 24 & 25, Mashantucket
All are welcome to join the family-friendly celebration as we usher in the 2019 harvest season and give thanks and honor to the Creator for our rich heritage and our ancestors, warriors, veterans, and Elders. Authentic Native American cuisine prepared by celebrated New England Native chefs is sure to satisfy every appetite. Sample hearty chowders, local fish, wild game and seasonal fruit beverages prepared the old ways, along with contemporary fare such as Indian tacos, burgers, fry bread, unique desserts and more.
4th Annual New England Food Truck Festival
August 31 & September 1, Uncasville
This festival, held at Mohegan Sun, features more than 30 food trucks, live music, entertainment for kids, face painting, field games and so much more. Saturday night ends with an explosive fireworks show at 9:15 p.m.
First Fridays Stonington Borough
September 6, Stonington Borough
Pop-in-the-shops, grab a bite to eat, explore Connecticut’s oldest village. Take a leisurely stroll down Water Street, to eclectic shops, art galleries, boutiques and restaurants.
First Fridays Downtown Putnam
September 6 & October 4, Putnam
First Fridays ‘Made in America’ celebrates the arts and cultures of America. Join us for art, music, dance, fine cuisine, quaint shopping, family memories and much more. September 6 is ComiCon day, and October 4 is Steam Punk day.
Photo Credit: Healthy Living Festival
Healthy Living Festival 2019
September 28, Norwich
A free community event at Dodd Stadium that showcases local health-related businesses while providing local families with a day of fun and education. Bringing our local community together offering free healthcare screenings, interactive demonstrations, vendors, performers in art, music, and more.
Photo Credit: Mystic River Oyster Fest
Mystic River Oyster Festival
September 28, Mystic
This festival offers an opportunity for Mystic Seaport Museum visitors to learn about oyster fisheries and to meet and support area growers! Sample many delicious oysters from the region. Enjoy live music, guest speakers, demonstrations, children’s activities, and of course, a shucking contest.