Fun returns this summer as downtowns and venues around the region again host monthly and annual festivals. Art shows, food festivals, and special town celebrations continue into September. Explore a new town and enjoy food, music, games and fun!
Eat in the Street
July 7, August 4 & September 1, New London
An open-Planed theme nights on Bank Street for its Eat in the Street event are July 7, Pirate Night; August 4, Locally Sourced; September 1, Latin Heritage Month. Bank Street will be closed to traffic from 4pm – 10pm, with outdoor dining at local restaurants, movies at the Hygienic Art Park, fun activities, and vendors.
Pop-Up Putnam
July 24 & August 21, Putnam
An open-air market throughout Putnam’s downtown spaces, welcoming weekend visitors to discover unique artisan and merchant offerings.
69th Annual Stonington Village Fair
August 7, Stonington Borough
Set on Wadawanuck Green in the Stonington Borough get ready for a day of family fun with pottery sales, the book sale, artisan row, sweet bread, and floral bouquets. Hosted by Stonington Community Center.
63nd Annual Mystic Outdoor Art Festival
August 14 & 15, Mystic
A juried art show with over 200 artists, the festival serves an audience of discriminating art enthusiasts, as well as weekend visitors and residents from surrounding communities. 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 located in Mystic River Park.
Artist application for MOAF 2021
Hempstock 2021
August 14 & 15, North Stonington
Celebrate with the North Stonington community as we host live music, vendors, and family friendly events in a showcase of all things hemp. Headliners include The Mike Crandall Band and Screamin’ Eagle Band. Hosted by Better Together CT. Check the event website for emerging details.
New London Pride Festival
August 15-22, New London
The New London Pride Festival will take place Saturday, August 21 at Ocean Beach Park in New London, CT. The festival is coordinated by OutCT, a non-profit organization dedicated to building a community through educational, cultural, and social programming that promotes acceptance, tolerance, and understanding of all sexual orientations and gender identities. For more information about the New London Pride Festival and donation opportunities, visit outCT.org.
Schemitzun Feast of Green Corn and Dance
August 28 & 29, Mashantucket
Visit 17th Century Eastern Woodland Village with to see demonstrations of wampum making and open fire cooking, and experience of the Mashantucket Tribal Nation’s rich heritage in a living exhibit. Taste the best traditional foods prepared by celebrated local Native American chefs! 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, kettle corn, and unique desserts. Fine arts and crafts will be offered in a by certified Native American Tribal member artisans.
Willimantic Streetfest
September 16, Willimantic
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. Willimantic’s diversity really shines through in the delicious authentic international cuisine. Enjoy locally produced artwork, beer, music, and soda. Free children’s activities abound!
14th Annual Garlic Festival
September 18-19, Mystic
A Hosted by Olde Mistick Village, the Garlic Festival is back…and it stinks more than ever! Join in the fun at an award winning food festival dedicated to all things garlic. Vendors can contact Jim Holley regarding participation.
Healthy Living Festival 2021
September 25, 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.
Bookmark this page Calendar of Regional Events: C.O.R.E. to find great events around eastern CT. Be sure to submit your organization’s event by clicking Add Event.
Share your festival with us at communications@chamberect.com and we will add them to our blog.
You may also like our blog on Farmers Markets where you can find local food and fun every week!