Events
UPDATED AUGUST 2024
Connecticut is a state rich in history, culture, and community spirit, reflected in its vibrant array of annual events and festivals. From the bustling farmers markets that bring together local artisans and food producers to the time-honored heritage fairs celebrating New England’s agricultural roots, there’s always something to experience in the Nutmeg State. Whether you’re exploring the maritime traditions of Mystic, savoring fresh oysters at a coastal festival, or getting into the holiday spirit at one of the many festive markets, Connecticut offers a diverse and dynamic calendar of events that highlight the best of Americana and regional charm. Dive into our curated list of must-visit events happening across the state, and find the perfect gathering to make your trip unforgettable.
Heritage Fairs & Local Festivals
- Durham Fair (September, Durham) – One of the largest agricultural fairs in Connecticut, featuring animal pulls, monster trucks, and a farm museum, celebrating the state’s agricultural heritage.
- Brooklyn Fair (August, Brooklyn) – The oldest continuously active agricultural fair in the U.S., offering livestock shows, home and garden exhibits, and live entertainment, celebrating New England’s farming traditions.
- Guilford Fair (September, Guilford) – A historic fair with roots going back to 1859, offering a petting zoo, parade, and harvest fair circus, making it a family-friendly celebration.
- Hebron Harvest Fair (September, Hebron) – A popular event featuring agricultural displays, carnival rides, and live music, providing a quintessential New England fair experience.
- Scotland Highland Games (October, Scotland) – This annual event celebrates Scottish culture with traditional Highland games, including caber tossing and hammer throwing, as well as bagpipers and dancers.
Farmers Markets & Artisan Markets
- Coventry Farmers Market (June-October, Coventry) – Located at the Nathan Hale Homestead, this market is a gathering spot for local farmers, artisans, and food producers, offering a rich selection of farm-fresh products and handcrafted goods.
- Artisan Market at Parmelee Farm (Fall, Killingworth) – A volunteer-run event showcasing local artists and crafters, offering ceramics, handmade crafts, and more in a scenic, community-focused environment.
- Guilford Art Center’s Craft Expo (July, Guilford) – One of the oldest craft shows in the Northeast, featuring works by over 180 artists, including jewelry, pottery, and fine art, set along the picturesque Guilford Green.
- Newtown Holiday Festival Market (December, Newtown) – A festive market perfect for finding unique holiday gifts, featuring local crafters and artisans offering everything from handmade decor to specialty foods.
- Litchfield Hills Farm-Fresh Market (May-November, Litchfield) – A year-round farmers’ market offering local produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and crafts, set in the scenic Litchfield Hills region.
Annual Festivals & Holiday Gatherings
- Norwalk Oyster Festival (September, Norwalk) – A celebration of New England’s seafood heritage with a focus on oysters, complemented by live music and local vendors, offering a taste of coastal Connecticut.
- Bristol Mum Festival (September, Bristol) – A long-standing tradition celebrating the chrysanthemum, featuring a parade, car show, jazz gala, and various vendors, highlighting the town’s floral heritage.
- Beardsley Zoo Glow Wild Lantern Festival (September-December, Bridgeport) – A magical event featuring illuminated lantern sculptures, transforming the Beardsley Zoo into a glowing wonderland.
- Mystic Seaport By Land & By Sea Festival (September, Mystic) – A maritime celebration at the Mystic Seaport Museum, including a vintage car show and various nautical-themed activities, blending classic cars with Connecticut’s rich seafaring history.
- Connecticut Garlic & Harvest Festival (October, Bethlehem) – A unique festival celebrating all things garlic, including food vendors, cooking demonstrations, and live music, set in the rural town of Bethlehem.
- Hartford St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March, Hartford) – One of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in New England, featuring marching bands, dancers, and floats, celebrating Irish culture in the state capital.
- Simsbury Fly-In and Car Show (September, Simsbury) – The largest event of its kind in the Northeast, combining an aircraft fly-in with a classic car show, offering a unique experience for aviation and car enthusiasts alike.
- New Haven International Festival of Arts & Ideas (June, New Haven) – A world-class festival that brings together artists and thinkers for performances, talks, and community events, celebrating global and local cultures.
- Woodstock Fair (September, Woodstock) – A traditional agricultural fair offering livestock shows, crafts, rides, and live entertainment, providing a fun, family-friendly experience in the northeastern corner of Connecticut.
- Mystic Irish Parade (March, Mystic) – An annual celebration of Irish heritage featuring a festive parade through the historic streets of Mystic, complete with traditional music, dancers, and community spirit.